Switching Heirs:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Seventeen-

	"Is very bad," seethed Shampoo. "Great Grandmother use 
Cat-Tongue on Ukyo. No can touch hot water, skin is too sensitive. 
Airen is..." the lavender haired Amazon trailed off, not wanting to 
speak the words.
	"I'm trapped as a man," finished Ukyo hoarsely. "My body 
can't take the hot water it needs to change back into my natural female 
form."
	Silence filled the dojo as the boarders took in the news that 
just met them. After several moments of regaining his self-control 
Ukyo, along with Ranma and Shampoo, went downstairs to inform the 
others of what had transpired between himself and Cologne. Each of 
the dojo occupants took the news in thoroughly different ways.
	A recently arrived Kasumi wore a face of complete sympathy 
while her light brown eyes seemed thoughtful. Genma wore an 
unusually solemn expression which Nodoka shared. Sakura, to put it 
quite simply, looked ready to commit murder. Ryoga and Akane wore 
identical faces of barely contained rage that somehow reflected their 
fondness for the okonomiyaki chef. Nabiki had a far off gaze in her 
eyes and was studying Ukyo very intently. Perfume focused her 
sapphire eyes on the figure of her Cousin, whom she knew must be 
feeling wretched over the fate of her Airen. Out of all the reactions 
from the dojo residents on hearing this news the one which seemed to 
unite all their feelings on the subject had to be reaction of Tendo Soun. 
Who, upon being told Ukyo was trapped in her male form, 
immediately collapsed and began sobbing his eyes out.
	"Don't worry Ojisama," said Ranma softly, in an attempt to 
comfort Soun. "We'll find a way to reverse the affects. You'll see."
	"Shampoo help Airens find cure for Ukyo's full body Cat-
Tongue," pronounced Shampoo with determination. "Great 
Grandmother no can get away with this. Is wrong. Shampoo no want 
to have Airens by force. Shampoo want Airens to come willing to 
Shampoo."
	On hearing this Sakura opened her mouth to say something 
that no doubt matched her foul expression but was swiftly interrupted 
by Nabiki who said, "From what I've heard it looks like Cologne put 
pressure on one of your major nerves Ucchan." Resting her chin in the 
palm of her hand Nabiki murmured thoughtfully, "If my studies in 
pressure point attacks have taught me anything it's that for every nerve 
used to cause damage in an attack there is inevitably another that can 
undo that same damage. All we really have to do is find the nerve that 
can reverse the extreme heat sensitivity caused by the Cat-Tongue." 
Smiling Nabiki finished, "I'm sure if I dig around in all of Mother's 
pressure point manuals I inherited I'm bound to find something to help 
you Ucchan."
	"Really Nabiki?!" exclaimed Ranma, practically flying across 
the table to grab the brunette's shoulders.
	"Really Ranma," said Nabiki dryly, while carefully studying his 
hands on her shoulders. Immediately the pigtailed boy flushed with 
embarrassment and released her. "Although it will take some time," 
Nabiki amended. "It's going to involve a great deal of research."
	"Well as long as you find a cure it's all right. Don't you think so 
Ucchan?" asked Ranma happily. Shifting cobalt eyes he found the 
figure of his iinazuke was slowly exiting the sitting room. Ukyo's broad 
shoulders were slumped and he was obviously lost in thought. 
Changing to a face of concern Ranma started to rise to his feet to 
pursue Ukyo when the strong hand of his Father stopped him.
	"Stay here son," ordered Genma seriously, pushing his wire 
rim glasses up the bridge of his nose. "It's time that I had a talk with 
Ukyo."
	The elder Saotome disappeared after his student leaving the 
rest of the dojo occupants silent and wondering about the fate of the 
heir to the Anything Goes school of martial arts.

	Ukyo sat on the high wall that overlooked the passing river 
below and stared transfixed at his hands. They looked fine, completely 
normal, but for some reason they burned as if they'd been scalded by 
boiling water.
	Is the Cat-Tongue so powerful? Ukyo wondered as he 
continued to stare at his aching palms. When he had cooked the snack 
of okonomiyaki for Ranma and Shampoo he had worn cooking 
gloves. Mittens of sorts, out of sheer habit from Kasumi having 
instructed him so many times to always wear them when cooking. At 
first Ukyo found them to be a hindrance, slowly down his normally 
lightning fast reflexes when it came to cooking okonomiyaki. An art at 
which he'd been adept at since early childhood. Soon enough Ukyo 
adjusted to wearing them and continued to do so for Kasumi's piece 
of mind. It was the least he could do for the eldest Tendo sister who 
was the closest thing to a Mother he'd ever known. But the gloves I 
wore, pondered Ukyo. They protected my hands from the heat of the 
stove when I was cooking. So how come now my hands feel like 
they've been burned? Is the Cat-Tongue more than just nerve control? 
Could it be psychological as well? Do I have to realize and see what I 
come in contact with is hot in order for it to work properly? What 
other explanation do I have for not noticing the heat of the stove 
thanks to the gloves but reacting in full when I was in the furo? And 
why do my hands hurt now but they didn't when I was cooking?
	Absorbed in this train of thought Ukyo did not notice Genma 
taking a seat next to him on the high wall until the man said lowly, "Still 
feeling sorry for ourself, are we girl?" Snapping out of his musings 
Ukyo burned a harsh glare into Genma for saying this and he chuckled 
fearlessly at it.
	"I'm a guy now in case you haven't noticed Pops," snarled 
Ukyo dangerously. Switching to a downtrodden tone he finished, 
"Maybe a guy forever."
	Raising an eyebrow Genma drawled, "You may be male on 
the outside but your soul is female Ukyo. Your outer appearance does 
not affect who you truly are inside. Perhaps you should remember 
that."
	Ukyo snorted at this. Words of wisdom from Genma? What 
was the world coming to? "Whatever," Ukyo muttered bitterly as a 
reply. He focused on the passing water below them and tried to lose 
himself in the calm serenity of it.
	Not about to be put off Genma persisted, "I can't believe I'm 
seeing this from you girl. This isn't the student I trained from childhood 
who can be, as your Mother liked to say, stubborn as a mule and 
twice as stupid. No," Genma sighed. "This isn't that student at all. 
You're a quitter these days who'd rather mope about and feel sorry for 
yourself than do something to change your situation. I guess I should 
call you another saying that your Mother liked to use as well. You're 
being a jackass."
	"Do you want to die an early death old man?" hissed Ukyo, his 
eyes now slits as he bore his gaze into the river.
	"Not particularly," remarked Genma cheerfully. "I just want to 
point out some things to you. That's all."
	He had no idea as to what Genma was planning with this game 
of verbal sparring but Ukyo was willing enough to play along. The 
listless attitude he had overtaken really left him with no other choice 
than that. He certainly didn't want to take the actual effort of attacking 
Genma. His heart just wasn't in it. So instead Ukyo questioned, "Oh 
yeah? What's that?"
	"Oh, just that the Master would hog-tie you and then beat you 
seven ways from Sunday if he saw you like this right now," Genma 
informed, in a continually happy tone. "Because if there is one thing the 
Master can't stand it's a quitter. And I know he couldn't bear seeing 
his chosen heir acting in such a manner and since he's not here it's my 
duty to act in his place. So that's what I'm doing girl. I'm telling you 
right here and now to get off your ass and do something about that 
blasted Cat-Tongue you're trapped with! You love my son? You want 
to marry him? Fine! Go ahead! We all support that but you damn well 
can't marry him trapped as a man so go find that Amazon witch and 
demand a cure from her! Ukyo," Genma calmed down, saying in a low 
solemn voice. "Don't let her beat you like this. That's what she wants. 
You're playing right into her hands by rolling over and playing dead. 
Remember who you are. You're Ukyo, the daughter of Kuonji Akira, 
the last surviving student of his school of okonomiyaki martial arts. 
You are the chosen heir of the Master and the future for the Anything 
Goes school of martial arts. You are the iinazuke of my son, Saotome 
Ranma. You can't let her do this to you girl. You have to fight back. 
Remember who you are Kuonji Ukyo," repeated Genma strongly. 
"Remember who you are!"
	Staring blankly at Genma the okonomiyaki chef said dryly, 
"Was that supposed to inspire me? Because if so it failed miserably."
	At a loss for a reply Genma simply gawked as Ukyo rose 
smoothly to his feet and dusted of his pants in a quick easy motion. 
Gazing down at Genma he sighed before murmuring, "Thanks for 
trying to cheer me up Pops. It wasn't really the best job but you did 
succeed in one measure. You reminded me how much all of you care 
for me." Forming a lopsided grin he said wryly, "If I can get a selfish 
bastard like you to worry about my welfare then I know Ranchan and 
the others must be going nuts. And knowing that... well, that gives me 
enough spirit to snap out of this funk and go after that old ghoul. 
There's got to be a cure for the Cat-Tongue she's trapped me under 
and I'm going to find it." Slapping Genma amiably on the shoulder 
Ukyo said, "I owe you one old man."
	Saying that Ukyo proceeded to bound away in search of 
Cologne and the newly opened restaurant he was sure she was 
located in. Watching this departure Genma gaped for a few more 
moments before breaking into a smile and saying proudly, "That's my 
girl."

	"Great Grandmother have sharp mind, she notice much," 
Shampoo whispered to her companions. "Have to be very careful so 
she not know what we is up to. Otherwise..." Shampoo trailed off 
ominously.
	The younger set of the dojo boarders, along with Shampoo 
and Perfume, were gathered on the rooftop to the Nekohaten, the 
Ramen restaurant the Amazons worked in, planning their method of 
attack on Cologne. They decided it would serve Ukyo better to 
observe the Matriarch subtly at first and gather information as to 
discover a possible cure for the full body Cat-Tongue. Storming in 
there kicking and screaming would do them no good so the group had 
come up with a decisive way to monitor Cologne without raising 
suspicion. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on whose side you 
were on, the plan heavily involved Ranma and Nabiki chumming up to 
their Amazon brides in order to create a feasible excuse for spending 
so much time in the restaurant. As for the rest of the group, Shampoo 
informed them with some excitement that the Nekohaten was hiring 
new employees. Although, Nabiki pointed out, both were weak 
excuses that Cologne would probably see through they really were the 
only things they had going for them.
	"I still don't see why I have to apply for a job waiting tables in 
your dumb restaurant," grumbled Sakura, as she adjusted the heavy 
red bracers around her wrists. "Your old troll of a Grandmother is 
going to know what we're up to anyway. So what's the use?"
	Fuming Shampoo retorted, "Shampoo heard enough from you 
stupid street fighter girl! Is whining all the time! Sakura no want to help 
Ukyo then fine! Shampoo more than willing to work twice as hard for 
her Airen to find cure!"
	"Okay, that's enough of that," intervened Ranma as he looked 
wearily at the arguing girls. "Fighting like this isn't going to help Ucchan 
and that's why we're doing this in the first place. Will you two at least 
attempt to get along?"
	"Fine," agreed Sakura arrogantly. "Every time she talks I'll just 
pretend I hear nothing but mindless buzzing. That ought to calm me 
down."
	At this comment Shampoo narrowed scarlet eyes before 
retrieving her bonbori and launching herself at Sakura. The two girls 
almost succeeded in starting a mammoth battle on the Nekohaten 
rooftop but were stopped by the timely interference of their 
companions. Sakura being restrained by both Ryoga and Akane while 
Ranma and Perfume took hold of a furious Shampoo.
	Groaning at this outburst Nabiki rested an elegant hand on her 
forehead and kneaded it as a headache overtook her senses. When 
the rage filled combatants managed to calm themselves she stated 
coolly, "This is no time for petty vindictiveness ladies." Turning hazel 
eyes to Sakura she said harshly, "I have no idea what your problem is 
but if you continue this childish behavior I'm going to call Dachi and 
have her cart you off to the Kuno estate where you can live 
permanently. There will be no infantile squabbling of this kind allowed 
in the Tendo dojo. Maybe Dachi will put up with it because she's in 
love with you but I won't. The Kami only knows how she manages 
you. I thought you were the sane one in the relationship Sakura but 
maybe I was wrong. I just hope Dachi, as absurd as it sounds, can 
talk some reasonable behavior into you. And Shampoo," Nabiki said 
shifting her eyes to the Amazon. "If you really want to help your Airen 
then stop taking her bait. From what I'm told you're the best of your 
tribe. Their Champion. Surely Sakura isn't worth your attention right 
now? There are more important matters to take care of involving 
Ukyo. If your feelings of love are as strong as you claim they should 
take precedent over any form of small revenge you want to take 
against Sakura. Your attention should be on helping Ukyo, the woman 
you love, not fighting over personal vendettas."
	"Shampoo understand," replied the lavender haired Amazon in 
soft agreement. "Will ignore stupid street fighter girl. Is no worth 
Shampoo's trouble." Turning her attention to Perfume she murmured 
playfully, "Perfume's Airen is smart one. Cousin is very lucky to snatch 
Nabiki up."
	Breaking into a lascivious smile Perfume replied, "I know. But 
I is wanting to snatch other things on Airen."
	Turning beet red at this sly comment Nabiki broke into a loud 
coughing fit while Perfume studied the Japanese girl curiously at this 
reaction. Ranma began snickering quietly and found himself receiving a 
threatening glare from the middle Tendo sister.
	"All right," pronounced Nabiki, regaining her natural calm 
composure. "No more dawdling. Let's get to work."
	"You mean apply for work," put in Ranma, smirking as the 
group walked towards the edge of the Nekohaten roof and began 
leaping to the street below in pairs.
	Raising a brown eyebrow Nabiki drawled, "You're such a 
smart ass."
	"Better than a dumb ass," Ranma replied, still wearing a smile 
of self-pleasure on his handsome features.
	Shaking her head Nabiki descended to the busy street below 
with Perfume muttering, "He's a pain in the ass."
	"I heard that!" called Ranma from on high.
	Distracted by this Nabiki adjusted her gaze too look up at the 
pigtailed boy and in doing so she lost track of her companion. 
Therefore instead of landing softly on her own two feet as she had 
planned Nabiki found herself being gently cradled by Perfume. The 
chestnut haired Amazon drew her Airen into her grip with delicate 
strength just moments before Nabiki could hit the ground.
	Smiling softly Perfume carefully replaced Nabiki on the street, 
treating her as if she was a precious piece of china. Flabbergasted at 
this action Nabiki was unable to say anything and could only stare 
blankly into Perfume's warm sapphire gaze that shone with love. 
Fortunately for Nabiki they were soon joined by Ranma and Shampoo 
who eagerly made their way into the Nekohaten, taking the silent pair 
with them.
	They barely got a few steps when they were stopped by the 
immobile backs of Sakura, Ryoga, and Akane who were frozen at the 
entrance to the restaurant. All three were involved in staring at 
something of obvious interest to them. Pushing through their friends 
they were stunned to see an enraged Ukyo battling Cologne yet again. 
The okonomiyaki chef was hastily pursuing the Amazon Elder 
throughout the restaurant. Jumping over chairs and knocking down 
tables as he threw a barrage of miniature spatulas at Cologne who 
easily blocked them with her staff. Frustrated by this action Ukyo 
retrieved his battle spatula and attempted to slice apart the staff. 
Amused at these efforts Cologne played with Ukyo awhile longer 
before finally poking him on his forehead with her staff, sending Ukyo 
flying backwards and into the group gathered in the entrance to the 
Nekohaten. Collapsed at the feet of Ranma and Shampoo the chef 
tilted his oak brown head backwards to look up into their concerned 
faces.
	"Ranchan, Shampoo," breathed Ukyo with some surprise. Not 
noticing how Shampoo beamed on being acknowledged by her Airen 
he tenderly pushed himself up into a sitting position. "What're you all 
doing here?"
	"Us?" questioned Ryoga. "We came with Shampoo and 
Perfume but how in the world did you know this was their restaurant?"
	Scratching the back of his head Ukyo revealed with some 
embarrassment, "I sort of went around checking all the ramen 
restaurants in Nerima. Tedious but effective." Rising to his feet Ukyo 
returned his attention to the figure of Cologne who was watching this 
interaction with interest. "But enough with the explanations. I've got a 
score to settle with the old ghoul."
	"Wait Airen!" called Shampoo anxiously. Grabbing Ukyo's 
arm she spun the boy around to his side so she could peer deeply into 
his eyes. She whispered softly, "No can get cure for full body Cat-
Tongue by fighting Great Grandmother. We have plan. Shampoo no 
let Airen stay trapped as boy. Ukyo follow Shampoo lead, yes?" With 
that the lavender haired Amazon pushed past Ukyo, but not before 
smoothly placing a folded piece of paper in his hand.
	Peering at the paper Ukyo unfolded it then read aloud, "Help 
wanted. Chef, dishwashers, waitresses, waiters and greeter. Apply at 
the Nekohaten. Hours flexible." Shifting his gaze he looked at Ranma 
and questioned, "What's this all about Ranchan?"
	"Apparently their restaurant is hiring. Shampoo came up with 
the idea of some of us taking on part-time jobs here so we can keep 
an eye on the troll while trying to figure out a cure for your condition. 
Shampoo thinks that eventually Cologne will either let something slip 
or she'll simply let us in on it. If we work here we'll have an advantage 
about gaining that knowledge for ourselves." Forming a wide smile 
Ranma commented, "Pretty smart, huh?"
	"Yeah," Ukyo said. "That was smart of her."
	Ukyo studied Shampoo, who was conversing with Cologne, 
with a new sense of admiration. He didn't expect her to go such 
lengths to help him. Especially against her own Great Grandmother, 
the Matriarch of their tribe, whose heir she was. No, Ukyo didn't 
expect this from Shampoo at all.
	Seeing this reaction Ranma added, "She really was a lot of 
help. I'm beginning to think Shampoo isn't that bad a person. In fact," 
Ranma said lowly, so only Ukyo could hear. "She's a very nice girl."
	Smiling softly Ukyo replied teasingly, "Cute too."
	Chuckling Ranma said, "You said it, not me."
	"You don't agree?" asked Ukyo dryly.
	"I didn't say that either," replied Ranma easily.
	The couple's playful banter was interrupted by the piercing 
shriek of Shampoo as she studied Cologne who was dangling a pink 
pendant in front of the girl. Rushing to her side Ukyo carefully 
inspected Shampoo with concern while Ranma stood protectively at 
the Amazon's other side as he glared at Cologne with definite 
animosity.
	"You okay sugar?" asked Ukyo gently.
	Lifting scarlet eyes Shampoo didn't reply as she grabbed 
Ukyo by his arms and held him tightly. "Ukyo," she said forlornly. 
"Great Grandmother say she have Phoenix pill, is cure for full body 
Cat-Tongue, it in that pendant."
	"She does?!" Ukyo cried incredulously, forming a face of 
determination he turned in preparation to attack Cologne once again.
	That was when Shampoo grabbed his hands in her own. 
Pulling him to her in a sharp tug she leaned in close, giving the 
appearance they were in the middle of an embrace. In Ukyo's ear she 
whispered, "Stop Airen. No can win fight against Great Grandmother 
and she much tricky. No make sense. Why she tell us about pill? 
Great Grandmother has reason to tell us, reason not good for Airens. 
Shampoo has plan for you get cure to full body Cat-Tongue. No 
attack Great Grandmother if plan is to work. Ukyo trust Shampoo?"
	Looking deeply into Shampoo's luminous gaze for several 
moments Ukyo finally said in soft solemn tones, "I trust you Shampoo. 
What's your plan?"
	Shampoo moved closer to Ukyo and breathed against his ear, 
smiling on feeling the shivers run through his body at this contact, and 
said, "No can tell Airen here. Like Shampoo said before, follow lead." 
Withdrawing from their embrace she said loud enough for everyone to 
hear, "It good Ukyo no scared of hard work." Turning to Cologne she 
offered the Elder her brightest smile. "Both Airens agree to work at 
Nekohaten Great Grandmother. Is very happy news!"
	"Yes," allowed Cologne, wearing a small and calculating smile. 
"Very happy news indeed." Adjusting her stare she took in the rest of 
the group. "And what about these lagabouts? Do they want jobs as 
well?"
	"We're not lagabouts!" shouted Akane, her face red and hands 
clenched into fists.
	"Oh?" asked Cologne humorously. "And what previous work 
experience do you have?"
	At this question Akane turned even redder and looked ready 
to explode. Sakura groaned at this reaction. She had finally calmed 
down from her previous entanglements with Shampoo and was now 
completely focused on the task of helping Ukyo. Stepping forward 
Sakura said, "I've had plenty. Ryochan and I must have taken on at 
least fifty different jobs on the road for money. We both have waited 
tables. Although," Sakura said wearing a smirk. "In Ryoga's case you 
might be better off buying him a pair of rubber gloves and making him 
a wash boy than risk having him wander around as a waiter. He might 
never find his way back from the tables."
	Eyeing Sakura carefully Cologne allowed a slight nod of her 
head and said, "I underestimated you. I will not do so again." Sakura 
blinked at this and was going to question it when Cologne focused on 
Perfume, who was hovering next to Nabiki. "What of your Airen, 
Perfume? Is she interested in waiting tables?"
	Raising an eyebrow Nabiki drawled, "I was more considering 
helping you with your financial and promotional situation. I know my 
way around accounting books and profit margins better than most 
business majors in college. And for the right price I would be more 
than willing to give this place the proper advertisement to bring in quite 
the crowd."
	"Is that so?" Cologne asked a bit derisively and as a response 
Nabiki simply nodded silently. "Well then, I'll make sure to hold you to 
that promise Ms. Tendo. You may all consider yourselves hired. 
Work starts tomorrow after school and I trust none of you will be 
late."
	With that Cologne hopped away on her staff and left the group 
alone in to contemplate what she was planning.

	"Okay Shampoo," said Ukyo seriously. "Tell me what you've 
got planned."
	After standing a bit stunned in the empty restaurant for a few 
seconds the group had decisively turned as a whole and headed back 
towards the Tendo dojo. Both Amazons joining them for they shared a 
combined wish of wanting to spend as much time with their Airens as 
possible.
	"Is very good plan Airen," beamed Shampoo. "Have seen how 
Great Grandmother training work. Shampoo and Perfume know what 
she want to do Ukyo. Is test of skill, in restaurant working she try to 
upset Airen. Want to make angry and cause fights. This way she know 
limits. How good Ukyo is. If she impressed enough maybe give 
Phoenix pill up, but no can count on it. That why Shampoo have plan." 
Her smile widening she said solemnly, "Shampoo will teach Ukyo the 
Kachu Tenshin Amaguriken."
	On hearing this Perfume frowned. "I still no like this plan 
Cousin. Great Grandmother may become very angry if she find you 
give away honored tribal secret technique. It no smart for you, could 
cause trouble."
	Turning to her Cousin, Shampoo snorted. "You is worry wart 
Perfume. Amaguriken is technique all Amazon children learn, is no 
problem to teach to Airen."
	"And what about other techniques? Is no problem to teach 
them too?" asked Perfume dryly.
	"Hmmph," sniffed Shampoo, flipping her lavender hair over 
one shoulder. Forming a sly expression she said in Mandarin, "<Why 
are you being so grumpy Pur-fum? If you wish, you may teach some 
techniques to your Airen. I think Nabiki would find our various Shiatsu 
styles interesting. Especially the extracurricular uses for some of 
them...>"
	"<I'm sure I would,>" said Nabiki sardonically. Hazel eyes 
shifted to Perfume who was simultaneously gaping at her Airen while 
blushing. "<Would you teach me some of them Pur-fum?>"
	"<Certainly!>" said Perfume, quickly recovering her senses. 
Studying Nabiki curiously she said, "<I wasn't aware you knew how 
to speak Mandarin.>"
	"<I know,>" Nabiki said with a smirk. "<I began teaching 
myself only shortly after Xian-pu arrived. I thought it would be...>" 
Nabiki trailed off, thinking for the proper wording. "<Useful.>"
	Giving Nabiki a look of admiration Perfume said, "<It will 
make things easier, being able to talk to you in my native tongue. My 
Japanese is not as good as I wish it was.>"
	"<That's okay,>" replied Nabiki, wearing a small smile. "<My 
Mandarin isn't as good as I wish it was.>"
	"Uh... hello?" interrupted Ranma warily, raising his hand into 
the air in an attempt to catch their attention. "What in the heck are all 
of you saying?"
	Smirking Ukyo at his iinazuke's confusion he said, "I'll fill you 
in later Ranchan."
	"Shampoo happy to teach Airen Ranma her language," purred 
Shampoo as she simultaneously linked arms with both Ukyo and 
Ranma.
	Ranma looked a bit nervous at how she expressed this 
sentiment but was none-the-less intrigued by the idea of learning 
another language. He had taken the obligatory English classes in 
school but never found much interest in it. Shooting Shampoo a bright 
smile he said, "I'd like that a lot Shampoo. When do we start?"
	Blinking in surprise Shampoo replied, "Soon as Ranma want. 
Shampoo be good teacher for Airen. Is vow!"
	Watching their interaction with interest Ukyo said in slightly 
humorous tones, "And while we're at it, why don't Ranchan and I help 
you with your Japanese? You can't just go around talking in third 
person all the time Shampoo."
	Hearing this Perfume snickered and said, "Good luck helping 
Shampoo learn that. She no study Japanese very hard before leaving 
Joketsuzoku. She very stubborn."
	Shampoo turned bright red at this and fuming turned to her 
Cousin, appearing to be in the process of telling her off when the 
sudden shout of Ryoga interrupted her.
	"You're nuts!!" the lost boy screamed at the top of his lungs at 
his best friend.
	Turning their attention the group saw that Ryoga was in the 
midst of an argument with Sakura. An unusual situation since these 
best of friends were never seen bickering. One could call them as 
close as siblings if not for the fact that many siblings never reached 
their level of bonding.
	"I am not nuts," said Sakura indignantly, poking Ryoga hard in 
the chest with her index finger. "And you better not go into your 
speech about Dachi getting arrested again."
	"But she could!" Ryoga shouted incredulously, waving his arms 
wildly about. "Narcotics are illegal and she has one of the largest 
collections of them on the planet!"
	Sakura snorted at this then said, "Don't you worry your pretty 
little head about that Ryochan. The Kuno family has got the Nerima 
police department under lock and key. How do you think they get 
away with all the property destruction they cause out there with their 
constant fighting?" Smiling rakishly she continued with a lilt, "Having 
deep pockets is a definite advantage sometimes. Besides, I've got 
some things to take care of over there and this will just make it easier. 
And anyway, this is for my own good. I'll be happy there. I know it." 
Turning on her heel Sakura took a side street and walked away from 
the group. "See you later," she called as a farewell, her back to them 
as she departed.
	Watching his friend disappear Ryoga remained in a state of 
silent fury for a moment before unclenching his fists and stalking over 
to Nabiki. Staring the girl hard in the eyes he said accusingly, "This is 
your fault! You hurt her feelings!"
	Immediately in a decisive movement Perfume was in front of 
Nabiki, shielding the other girl from the enraged Ryoga who now bore 
his angry gaze into her. "I not let you hurt Nabiki," said Perfume in icy 
tones.
	Snapping out of his maddened state Ryoga looked surprised 
and a bit hurt that the Amazon thought he would actually harm the 
middle Tendo sister. Seeing this Nabiki gently placed a hand on 
Perfume's arm while saying, "It's all right Perfume. He doesn't mean 
any harm."
	Sapphire eyes gazed searchingly into hazel ones and Perfume 
gave a short nod then moved from her protective stance in front of 
Nabiki to standing staunchly at her Airen's side while looking at Ryoga 
with suspicion.
	Turning her attention back to the lost boy Nabiki asked 
slowly, "I did what?"
	"You hurt her feelings!" repeated Ryoga. "And now she's 
doing what you told her! Sakura's going to stay with Kodachi from 
now on!"
	"Wait a minute," said Nabiki defensively, placing her hands on 
her hips. "I didn't tell her to do anything. All I did was inform her that 
her behavior in regards to Shampoo was childish and it had to stop. I 
never said in any serious regards that she would be forced to leave the 
dojo."
	Ryoga looked ready to explode at this statement and he very 
well could have if Akane had not chosen that instant to pull him aside 
for a private moment. Feeling more than a little bit relieved to have an 
angry Ryoga removed from her personal space Nabiki sighed.
	"Nabiki," called the solemn voice of Ukyo. "What did Ryoga 
mean by saying Sakura was doing what you told her?"
	Turning around to lock eyes with the svelte boy Nabiki 
grimaced and felt the sense of dread return again as she started her 
explanation.

	Tilting her chocolate brown head back Sakura gazed at the 
large wall surrounding the prestigious Kuno estate. Straightening her 
shoulders she pushed back on her toes and launched herself into the 
air. Landing softly on the neatly cut grass of the east lawn of the estate 
Sakura waited in silence.
	As if on cue the attacks from the automatic defense system 
Sasuke had rigged began and with cool efficiency the street fighter 
destroyed all of her mechanical opponents in seconds. Wiping away 
the sweat that had formed on her brow from this workout Sakura 
wore a wide grin on her features as Sasuke stealthily landed in front of 
her before kneeling.
	"Mistress Sakura," Sasuke said respectfully, his head bowed 
down. "Your presence honors us all."
	"Yeah, yeah," said Sakura, waving off this treatment. She still 
wasn't used to how the Kunos were treated like royalty by their loyal 
servant and it wasn't a relationship she wanted to imitate. If there was 
one thing she couldn't stand it was the idea of being pampered. Pulling 
the small ninja to his feet with a quick tug of her hand Sakura said, 
"Sorry I didn't give you any warning to shut down the traps Sasuke but 
I kind of was in the mood for a quick fight, y'know? I just felt like 
breaking something."
	"Oh?" asked Sasuke, a curious look upon his mousy features. 
"May I ask why that is, Mistress?"
	Groaning at the use of Mistress again in reference to her 
Sakura shook her head in annoyance as they entered the spacious 
Kuno mansion. "Sasuke," Sakura said strongly. "I'm going to tell you 
this one more time. Please don't call me Mistress. My name is Sakura, 
okay?"
	The ninja hesitated at a reply and glanced around nervously 
before nodding his head slowly. "Very well," he said softly. "But I shall 
have to continue to refer to you in terms of respect around the 
Mistress and Master. It would not do well for them to hear me 
speaking to you in any less respectful manner than themselves." 
Forming an expression of fondness he continued, "They do consider 
you as a member of their illustrious house now... Sakura."
	Beaming at the use of her name Sakura replied, "I'm glad they 
do because I sure consider them a part of mine now. And that's a 
pretty select club."
	"Many do not allow them into their hearts," Sasuke said a bit 
sadly. "I'm glad you have chosen to."
	"Me too," said Sakura with a smile. "And to answer your 
earlier question, I felt like breaking things because we've got big 
trouble at the dojo." She heaved a great sigh before continuing warily, 
"Again."
	"What has happened this time?" questioned Sasuke as he 
opened a pair of large heavily ornamented brass doors which lead to 
the large west wing garden where Kodachi's laboratory was located.
	"Shampoo's Great Grandmother has somehow managed to 
trap Ukyo in her male form," hissed Sakura. "I'm here to see if Dachi 
might have some ideas on how to cure this problem. After all," said 
Sakura, reverting to her natural easy going state. "She is practically a 
genius when it comes to understanding chemistry and human anatomy."
	"Ah," said Sasuke wisely. "More troubles involving Chinese 
Amazons. They are becoming quite the thorn in your side are they 
not?"
	"That's the understatement of the year," muttered Sakura. 
Pausing in her walk she gazed at the wrought iron gates that 
surrounded her girlfriend's mammoth laboratory then turned to the 
ninja saying, "I'll talk to you later Sasuke. You'll be seeing a lot more 
of me seeing as how I'll be staying here for an indefinite amount of 
time."
	With that the street fighter strode with some determination 
towards the ominous laboratory which had always been the subject of 
many nightmares for Sasuke since he'd first joined the Kuno 
household. Blinking in surprise the ninja questioned softly to himself, 
"Staying here?"

	Tipping back her head Sakura looked at the iron gates with 
some amusement before performing a running leap and overtaking 
them completely. In a quick movement of pure skill the street fighter 
rested a moment before pushing back on her toes and propelling 
herself into the air. Doing so she grabbed the nearest vine and began a 
steady climb to the roof top of the former greenhouse. Undoing the 
rusty latch to one of the larger roof top windows Sakura swung her 
legs over the edge of the gaping hole then pushed herself forward. The 
street fighter fell in a sudden descent towards the center of the 
laboratory, her weighted sneakers pounding into the floor with a 
resounding crash.
	"Hey Dachi!" said Sakura brightly as she rose to her full petite 
stature.
	Her back to her girlfriend, Kodachi stood before an elaborate 
arrangement of technology. The scene vaguely reminded Sakura of the 
laboratories mad scientists had in the bad science fiction movies Ryoga 
enjoyed watching. Staring at the contents of a small blue vial  in her 
hand Kodachi murmured, "I do wish you would find a more suitable 
form of greeting me while I'm working Sakura darling. A person of 
lesser nerves than myself would no doubt be unduly frightened by your 
arrivals in this sanctuary."
	Still grinning Sakura strode to Kodachi's side and peered 
curiously over her shoulder. Breathing gently into the other girl's ear 
she questioned, "What're you working on?"
	Shivering at the warm feel of Sakura's breath on her skin 
Kodachi said slowly, "Merely a trifle experiment that involves studying 
the adverse affects of adding high dosage enzymes to a counter 
productive fauna environment."
	"Mmm," said Sakura lazily. "Sounds interesting."
	Arching a black eyebrow Kodachi said, "You are being 
facetious. I realize how my work bores you."
	Pushing away the stiff white lab coat Kodachi wore Sakura 
planted a soft kiss on the gymnast's now exposed neck while saying, 
"Nothing about you bores me Dachi. I find everything you do 
interesting."
	"Indeed?" asked Kodachi sensuously as she carefully placed 
the vial she'd been holding in it's categorically arranged position among 
the other containers. Turning to face Sakura she wore a soft smile on 
her features. "That is convenient, for I feel the same in relation to you 
my darling."
	"Good," said Sakura, leaning forward she buried her face in 
the crook of Kodachi's neck and breathed in the sweet scent of the 
mane of black hair. "Then it would be okay if I stick around for the 
next few days?"
	"Stick around?" Kodachi asked in perplexed tones her violet 
eyes showing confusion. A sudden understanding over took her and 
she asked, "You mean you wish to live here?"
	"If you wouldn't mind," replied Sakura, tilting her head to one 
side. "I'd appreciate it a lot."
	"Mind?" breathed Kodachi incredulously. Moving forward she 
smoothly cupped Sakura's face in her hands and murmured in loving 
tones, "I could think of nothing that I would love better than to have 
you residing here with me."
	Smiling happily Sakura entwined her fingers in the thick black 
hair at the nape of Kodachi's neck then pulled the gymnast in for a 
passionate kiss as she said against her lips, "I love you Dachi."
	"As I love you my darling," returned Kodachi in low sultry 
tones as she focused her attention on kissing the smooth planes of 
Sakura's face.
	Sakura released a quiet moan at these actions and wound her 
fingers tighter into the grip of Kodachi's hair as they resumed another 
breath taking kiss. Pulling the other girl against her in a feverish 
embrace Sakura felt her body melt away until it seemed they were 
one.
	Surrendering to Kodachi's hold the street fighter allowed 
herself to be led by strong yet gentle hands as she fell back against 
tickling sensation of soft grass. Lifting her gaze as limber hands traced 
the sculptured length of her abdominal muscles Sakura saw that 
Kodachi had led them to the small meadow she had maintained inside 
the former greenhouse.
	Of everything in the dark girl's laboratory of wonders it was 
the meadow which delighted Sakura the most. Upon first seeing it the 
street fighter was amazed that her girlfriend was able to maintain it in 
such perfect conditions. Like the meadows of the outside world theirs 
was small and sloped while covered by an ample bunch of wild 
flowers which filled the air with a sweet fragrance that cannot be 
copied. The street fighter sighed, indulging herself a moment to allow 
her mind to drift as these wonderful sensations and surroundings 
overtook her. Unfortunately for her, it appeared to her partner as if 
she was in the process of becoming bored.
	"Sakura darling," purred Kodachi in a chiding manner. "I do 
believe your attention is elsewhere." Silencing Sakura, who was quick 
with an explanation, the gymnast pressed a finger against lush lips and 
shifted into a playful smirk then questioned, "I simply must earn your 
focus then, won't I?"
	Smiling as Kodachi softly lowered herself for another fiery 
embrace Sakura pushed away all thoughts of her reason for residing at 
the Kuno residence. It would simply have to wait for another time 
because she was most definitely involved in more interesting pursuits.

	Left alone inside the Nekohaten the Matriarch of the Amazons 
dwelled on the events of the recent days. Cologne realized that she 
had set herself up in such a position as to be viewed as the villain 
amongst the younger martial artists but it could not be helped.
	"They do not understand the forces which draw them together. 
If they did perhaps they might view my actions in a more favorable 
manner," said Cologne in solemn tones. The Amazon Elder was sitting 
before the small shrine which had been passed through their family 
through the centuries. "What happens now is merely a test and nothing 
more. I must see for myself the contents of their souls before deciding 
what action I am to take." Sighing Cologne lowered her head before 
continuing, "Please bless us with good will my Goddess. My only wish 
now is for the happiness of my Grandchildren."
	Remaining silent for several moments Cologne slowly rose to 
her feet and made her way out of the room while saying, "I am sorry 
Shampoo but I cannot risk taking chances when it comes to your 
Airen. She holds the promise of life or death in her hands depending 
on which way she turns and I must guard her closely in these days."

	"Well," said Ukyo after a long pause.
	The group had made their way back to the dojo and were 
gathered in the sitting room where Nabiki had just finished giving her 
explanation for Sakura's departure. The middle Tendo sister wore a 
guilty look upon her fine features which were also covered by a light 
blush as Ukyo bore his steady gaze into her. This was closely studied 
by a curious Perfume who wondered at the bond her Airen shared 
with Ukyo. It seemed to her that it was deeper than friendship and 
perhaps even on a spiritual level. Whatever it was, thought Perfume 
with a frown, she didn't like it.
	"I'm sorry," said Nabiki ducking her head. "I didn't think 
Sakura would take it that way. I only wanted her to stop all the fighting 
with Shampoo. It was interfering with our plans to help you Ucchan."
	Shaking his oak brown head Ukyo smiled softly as he 
questioned, "How can I stay mad at you Nabchan? You were only 
trying to help me out. Besides," Ukyo said thoughtfully. "I think 
Sakura's feelings weren't really hurt. She must have something else in 
mind by living with Kodachi. I wouldn't put it past the little sneak to 
use your speech against her as an excuse to do something of her own 
whims. It would be just like her to do that." Shifting his gaze Ukyo 
looked to Ryoga who was contemplating this statement. "Right 
Ryoga?"
	"Feh," snorted Ryoga, folding his arms across his strong chest. 
"I should've known. Sakura is always pulling things like this. No doubt 
this was the perfect excuse to spend more time with Kodachi." 
Directing dark brown eyes to Nabiki he said in gentle tones, "I 
apologize Nabiki."
	"Apology accepted," said Nabiki easily. Focusing her attention 
back on Ukyo she said slyly, "You better get your rest. Tomorrow we 
start our jobs at the Nekohaten and I bet Cologne will have you 
working overtime. Are you ready for the hectic life of a slave boy?"
	At this comment Ukyo narrowed his eyes and said 
dangerously, "I'm gonna get you for that."
	"Get me?" queried Nabiki innocently, placing her hand on her 
chest in a maidenly gesture. "Whatever do you mean?"
	Smiling rakishly Ukyo pounced at the middle Tendo sister 
while yelling, "Tickle attack!"
	Immediately Nabiki scrambled to her feet to avoid the fast 
moving okonomiyaki chef. Releasing a breathless giggle she dashed 
out of the sitting room with Ukyo hot on her trail.
	Chuckling Ranma shook his dark head while saying 
affectionately, "Nabchan should've never let Ucchan know just how 
ticklish she is. It just left her wide open for this sort of teasing." He was 
a bit surprised at his iinazuke's sudden playfulness but took it as a 
good sign that Ukyo's spirits were rising. Besides, it was always so 
much fun to watch Ukyo bring out the more childlike side to the 
always in control Nabiki. It was a part of her that many were never 
able to see. The occasion was rare that Ukyo would take advantage 
of what few knew to be Nabiki's highly ticklish status. The 
okonomiyaki chef chose the opportunities for breaking through 
Nabiki's sardonic veneer very carefully and apparently this was one of 
those precious times.
	Giggling softly Akane leaned forward to watch the interaction 
between Nabiki and Ukyo while saying, "I have to agree with you 
there Ranma but I don't think Nabiki minds so much. She lets Ukyo 
get away with things that would get  anyone else killed." Grinning 
widely she said, "I guess Ucchan taught Nabiki the long lost art of 
having fun."
	"Something Nabchan can definitely benefit from," said Ranma, 
wearing a grin. "They're quite a pair."
	Taking these comments in thoughtfully Perfume observed 
Nabiki. The middle Tendo sister was straddling Ukyo, sitting atop his 
flat stomach with a look of triumph on her beautiful features as she 
tickled the squirming boy under his nose with a feather. Ukyo released 
an abrupt sneeze and Nabiki quickly covered her face with her hands. 
Ukyo took quick advantage of this situation and threw Nabiki hastily 
over his shoulder teasing her with the option of throwing the girl into 
the koi pond. Nabiki protested this action at the top of her lungs while 
threatening to utilize the pressure point techniques she knew on him. 
Finally the okonomiyaki chef set her down, his broad hands gripping 
her waist easily as he gently set her on the ground. His eyes sparkling 
Ukyo offered an apology as he gave a formal bow before taking 
Nabiki's hand in his own and kissing the top of it lightly. Her cheeks 
flushed Nabiki wore a naughty smile as she said something that 
Perfume couldn't make out. Ukyo immediately turned a shade of red 
that put Nabiki's to shame on hearing what was said. This reaction 
sent Nabiki into another fit of laughter as Ukyo sputtered something to 
Nabiki which caused her to double over from the pains of never-
ending laughter.
	And watching the unsuspecting pair with careful sapphire eyes 
Perfume frowned once again.

	"<That was fun,>" said Shampoo, attempting to strike up a 
conversation with her long silent Cousin.
	The pair of Amazons were walking at a leisurely pace back to 
the Nekohaten for a good nights rest. Shampoo smiled softly in 
remembrance of the tentative hugs both her Airens had given her upon 
her departure. When she had stopped at the end of the street the two 
boys were still standing in the dojo entrance watching her until she was 
out of sight. Sighing at this fond memory Shampoo turned her scarlet 
eyes to Perfume who had not yet replied.
	Deciding to try another tactic Shampoo questioned with some 
concern, "<What's the matter?>"
	"<Ukyo,>" replied Perfume lowly. Sapphire eyes fixed a 
burning gaze on her companion. "<There is something between her 
and Nabiki.>" Clenching her jaw Perfume said in controlled tones that 
somehow still managed to reflect an envious fury, "<I do not like it.>"
	"<Between them?>" asked Shampoo in puzzlement. "<I don't 
understand. What do you mean by saying there is something between 
Ukyo and Nabiki? They're friends.>" Forming a defensive expression 
she said, "<Are you insinuating they are indulging in some sort of 
secret romance? My Airen would never do such a thing. Ukyo is 
completely in love with Ranma.>" This last statement was said with a 
twinge of sadness to it.
	"<I know that,>" said Perfume, who then released a puff of air 
to cause her chestnut locks to fly out of her eyeline. "<I'm more 
worried about how my Airen looks at Ukyo. I think she might be in 
love with her.>" Pausing, the Amazon Enforcer wore a twisted 
expression, as she said in a dry mocking voice, "<Or him. Perhaps 
Nabiki desires Ukyo in her male form. Which she is now stuck in. I 
will have to watch them carefully from now to discover the truth and to 
prevent anything from happening.>"
	"<Pur-fum,>" Shampoo pronounced in exasperation. "<Do 
you know who you sounded like just now?>"
	"<I give up,>" drawled Perfume sarcastically, not liking the 
superior tone in Shampoo's voice. "<Who?>"
	"<Mu-tsu,>" informed Shampoo sharply. Leaping down from 
the high fence she had been walking on she stood in front of her 
Cousin. "<What you just said about watching Nabiki and Ukyo 
sounded exactly like what he would do if you made a new friend in the 
village. Is that what you want? To become like the person who has 
tormented you for so long? Will you be like him and ignore the feelings 
of your Airen and only recognize your own? Are you really so 
selfish?>"
	Wearing a stunned expression on her face Perfume stared 
blankly at her companion before stammering. "<I-I did not mean to 
sound that way...>"
	"<I know,>" said Shampoo kindly. Reaching out she grasped 
Perfume's arms gently and tipped her head back to gaze into the taller 
girl's eyes. "<But all the same, you did. In my time in the dojo with my 
Airens I can say that I saw nothing in Ukyo's eyes but friendship for 
Nabiki. I cannot say the same for Nabiki as I did not watch her as 
closely. That is something you will have to discover on your own.>" 
Forming a quiet smile Shampoo continued, "<If it is any help I think 
you are simply being paranoid and they are nothing more than close 
friends. Just remember to think before acting Pur-fum. Do not be hasty 
in matters of the heart. It requires time.>"
	"<Time,>" Perfume said with a sigh. "<Is not something we 
have an abundance of. Who knows how long we will be permitted to 
stay in Japan before the Elders demand our return?>" Forming a 
staunch face of resolve Perfume said, "<I will devote all my being to 
discovering who my Airen really is. To learn what she loves and longs 
for. In that way I will win her heart.>"
	Beaming Shampoo said happily, "<That's the spirit! I'm sure 
there's no way she'll be able to resist your charms.>"
	Tingeing a little Perfume replied humorously, "<It will be made 
easier with the absence of Mu-tsu as to not scare her off. I cannot 
even remember the number of people that I have been interested in 
over the years that he frightened away.>"
	"<He's a pain all right,>" snorted Shampoo. "<It's just lucky 
for me I scare the pants off of him or he'd be chasing after me too. But 
you,>" the lavender haired Amazon shook her head warily. "<You go 
and rescue the idiot from the river rapids. Why didn't you just let him 
drown?>"
	Perfume looked appalled at this suggestion, "<I couldn't do 
that! He is the nephew of the only Elder who is able to oppose Great 
Grandmother. Besides,>" she continued sheepishly. "<At the time I did 
not know how annoying he could be nor that he would gain a crush on 
me.>"
	"<Better to let him drown,>" Shampoo muttered, recalling 
how Mousse had treated the gentle Lotion during the time she was 
with Perfume. Eyeing her companion mischievously she said, "<But on 
a different note I can tell you exactly what your Airen loves most.>"
	"<Oh?>" asked Perfume curiously, a chestnut eyebrow raised. 
"<What's that?>"
	"<Money,>" pronounced Shampoo solemnly. "<All you need 
to do is increase your value by several million yen and she'll love you 
forever Pur-fum.>"
	Bursting into giggles at the dark expression her Cousin wore 
Shampoo took off in a fast sprint down the street as Perfume followed 
at her heels shouting for her to apologize for insulting her Airen.

	"So you wish for me to aid in the venture to return Kuonji to 
her natural feminine state my darling?" questioned Kodachi as she 
released a quiet murmur of contentment.
	It was early in the morning and the pair had over an hour 
before school started so they were indulging themselves with some 
quiet relaxation. Wearing an elegant violet silk robe the dark gymnast 
was sitting on a small velvet stool in front of her bureau, it's surface 
scattered with several different kinds of make up, perfume, and hair 
care products. Standing behind her and gazing into the magnificent 
brass mirror before them was Sakura. The street fighter was clad in a 
t-shirt and a pair of soccer shorts. Sakura was taking her time in 
tenderly brushing Kodachi's thick black hair which was let loose and 
flowing. Sakura liked how Kodachi's features softened when her hair 
was down past her shoulders. The look reflected what she saw to be 
the gymnast's inner beauty, showing an innocence in her many thought 
was lost.
	"Yup," replied Sakura as she remained focused on her task. 
She found herself lengthening the quick act of brushing her girlfriend's 
hair simply because of the pleasure it was lending Kodachi and not 
wanting to be responsible for ending that pleasure. Running limber 
fingers through the silky texture of Kodachi's locks Sakura continued 
easily, "With your knowledge of alchemy I thought you might be able 
to find some sort of chemical relation as to why Ukyo is so sensitive to 
heat. Then it's just a matter of you finding a cure."
	"Just a matter?" drawled Kodachi playfully. "You truly think 
finding a cure will be as simple as that?"
	"For you?" asked Sakura. "You bet. You're a genius and you 
ought to recognize that."
	Smiling in silent pleasure at this compliment Kodachi turned to 
clasp Sakura's hands in her own. Raising them to her lips the gymnast 
kissed them tenderly as she rose to her full height. "Then for you, I will 
help Kuonji. I see no reason other than pettiness to allow her to stay in 
such a shabby state. It would be needlessly cruel. I shall begin 
experiments today." Forming a sly smile she continued, "By taking full 
advantage of the state of the art equipment gracing our new school 
chemistry labs of course."
	Chuckling Sakura commented, "And what a coincidence... 
you just happen to be President of the Chemistry Club for St. 
Hebereke."
	"Mmm," purred Kodachi. "Exactly. Might anyone be able to 
predict just who will be conveniently excused from class to do work 
on a special chemistry project these next few weeks?"
	Winding her hands around the back of Kodachi's neck Sakura 
said warmly, "You're amazing. Y'know that?"
	"In some ways," acknowledged Kodachi softly. 
	Pulling away from Kodachi the street fighter fidgeted with her 
hands behind her back as she said, "There's just one other favor I've 
got to ask..."
	"Merely ask it and it is yours my darling," Kodachi said 
warmly.
	Coughing at this Sakura ran her fingers through her spiky hair 
before saying nervously, "Okay. It's just that this isn't a regular request. 
Since Ucchan is stuck in her male form I'd... appreciate it if you might 
get Tatewaki off whatever drugs you have him on." Avoiding eye 
contact with her girlfriend Sakura continued, "It wouldn't be good to 
have him chasing after Ukyo screaming about the 'ponytailed menace'. 
It would only add to her problems."
	Stunned into silence Kodachi finally said carefully, "I was 
unaware you knew of my involvement with treating my brother's 
medical condition in the way of psychological matters and drugs. How 
did you discover it?"
	"It was kind of obvious to anyone who'd take the time to 
look," said Sakura quietly. "His erratic behavior had to be either 
related to chronic mania or drugs. And since your specialty is 
chemistry..." Sakura trailed off. Lifting green eyes she gazed at 
Kodachi helplessly. "I'm not judging you or anything like that Dachi. I 
just think it'd be better if you got Tatewaki off those things... to let him 
be himself. You're not giving him much of a choice if you've been 
sneaking them into his food like I think you have."
	"Perhaps," Kodachi said with a sigh. "But my actions were 
done in what I thought to be my brother's best interests. Before I put 
him on the drugs he was chronically depressed over the death of our 
Mother. They... snapped him out of it. Unfortunately they also caused 
him to become obsessed with our Samurai ancestry as well as giving 
him an inflated sense of self-worth." Pausing a moment she rubbed her 
forehead while murmuring, "I will do as you ask Sakura but it will not 
be an easy process. He has become addicted to his weekly regimen of 
drugs I slip into his meals. I will have to wean Tatewaki off them 
slowly. This will mean putting him on a new regimen of drugs which 
have a calming affect rather than an ego bolstering one." Heaving 
another great sigh she said, "We will simply be replacing one set of 
drugs with another."
	"True," said Sakura. "Only this time we won't let  Tatewaki 
become addicted." Moving closer to the dark gymnast she bore her 
comforting gaze into her. Cupping Kodachi's cheek gently Sakura 
said, "It's all right Dachi. I'm not mad at you. I don't think what you did 
was right but I know you only did what you thought you had to..."
	"Yes," breathed Kodachi softly as she leaned into Sakura's 
touch. "Although I see now that those thoughts were false in 
assumption. I will make amends for my errors of the past now." Violet 
eyes lost themselves to green depths as she continued, "With your 
help."
	Smiling tenderly Sakura murmured, "Always with my help. 
We'll do it together."
	Beaming at this statement Kodachi allowed herself to bask in 
the warm glow of Sakura's love when she tilted her dark head to one 
side and said, "And now it is my turn to ask an intriguing question of 
mystery."
	Raising a chocolate brown eyebrow Sakura drawled playfully, 
"Go ahead. Shoot."
	"Very well," said Kodachi. "Although I cherish every moment 
we spend together I must know... why have you recently chosen to 
take up residence with me?"
	"Uhm..." Sakura said lowly as she turned beet red. "It's stupid 
Dachi. You don't want to know."
	Narrowing violet eyes Kodachi simply folded her arms across 
her ample chest in a smooth movement and stared at her companion. 
Sakura offered a weak smile as she muttered to herself, "You do want 
to know. Okay..." Staring hard at her feet Sakura said, "I feel safe 
around you. I need to have that feeling these days. That's why I'm 
here. That and Nabiki suggested it. I have been feeling pretty 
uncomfortable around the dojo too. What with those damn Amazons 
always running around..." Sakura trailed off darkly.
	"You feel safe while with me?" asked Kodachi in 
astonishment.
	"Yeah," Sakura admitted, a bit embarrassed. "When I'm 
around you I feel calm Dachi. Lately I've just felt..." With a pause she 
searched for the wording. "Out of control and angry. Just so angry all 
of the time. I don't feel like that when I'm with you. So when Nabiki 
made the off-hand suggestion I move in here with you in her usual 
nonsensical sarcastic way I actually went for it." Looking amused with 
herself Sakura chuckled. "I wonder how the others are taking me 
leaving? They probably blame Nabiki for it."
	At this statement Sakura began chuckling even more as she 
pictured a confused expression on the middle Tendo sister's face. 
When it came to emotions Nabiki had to be one of the most closed off 
people Sakura had ever met. When relied on observing the feelings of 
those around her Nabiki was adept in but when it came to herself? 
The girl who possessed an impressive amount of intelligence suddenly 
became as thick as a brick. It seemed to Sakura that Nabiki was 
afraid of realizing her own emotions and hid from them as well as the 
possibility of being hurt due to them. Not that Sakura was any better. 
After the abrupt end to her romance with Ukyo she had closed her 
heart off to anyone besides her trusted friend Ryoga. An action similar 
Nabiki's current one as she let only a trusted few into her heart. Those 
Nabiki had grown up with and considered family, they were the ones 
she allowed herself to care for. And even then Nabiki did not trust 
herself to voice this affection, remaining silent, the love she felt only 
bearing itself into view in small subtle ways or in times of desperate 
need. Sakura wished that this would end for Nabiki. That Nabiki 
would let someone touch her heart and get past the fear that clutched 
at it. Sakura knew it was possible because she had done it. It had to 
have been the work of fate when Sakura met Kodachi. In that meeting 
something inside her called out saying this was the one who that knew 
her, accepted her, loved her completely and told Sakura to let go of 
her fear.
	Maybe if Nabiki would just come out of that money making 
shell of hers once and awhile to give someone a chance she'd lose her 
fear too, thought Sakura.
	"Huh?" asked Sakura as a familiar lilting voice broke through 
her brooding. Blinking she focused her attention on Kodachi who had 
just said something. "I'm sorry," said Sakura. "What did you say?"
	"So now you ignore your calming influence so easily?" asked 
Kodachi teasingly. "I'm crushed. What I said was now that we have 
cleared up all such matters of business it is your turn to be pampered 
my love."
	"What?" asked Sakura as she blinked in confusion. She 
registered what Kodachi meant as the street fighter was pushed 
towards the velvet stool in front of the make up bureau. "That's all 
right. You don't have to do this sort of stuff for me Dachi. I'm not used 
to this sort of girly junk. I mean, the closest I've ever gotten to being 
femme is wearing the required girls uniform while at school." 
Scrunching up her nose in distaste Sakura muttered, "And I might stop 
doing that soon. The way Furinkan ignores dress code policy I might 
as well come to school in my civvies. No one would even notice."
	"While I'm sure you would succeed in overcoming any such 
ignorant policy as enforced by that imbecilic school my darling it would 
be a mistake to put aside your own luscious femininity." Kodachi gave 
Sakura a wide smile as she pushed the girl gently down to sit on the 
stool as she said in low caring tones, "Just this once, allow me to care 
for you."
	"All right," grumbled Sakura as she bowed down to her 
girlfriend's wishes. "But just this one time. And don't go putting bows 
in my hair or anything stupid like that."
	On hearing this Kodachi released a happy squeal of sorts as 
she clapped her hands in excitement. Truly this would be a day for her 
to remember. Not only was her home life made bliss by Sakura's 
permanent appearance into it, she now knew Sakura needed her as 
much as she needed the gruff street fighter. It also seemed that her 
precious Sakura was finally admitting the loveliness of her own person. 
Rolling up the sleeves to her robe Kodachi resolved to make Sakura 
fully aware of just how truly beautiful she really was.

	Gathering her notebooks and folders neatly into her bag 
Kasumi slung it gracefully over her shoulder as she made her way 
upstairs and towards the attic. Since she had heard about Ukyo's 
entrapment in her male form Kasumi had been scourging all the 
medical texts at home and at school for any possible solution to the 
problem. She was leaving earlier than usual today because she had 
arranged several meetings with the more prominent medical instructors 
at Tokyo University whom she thought might have some ideas as to 
help Ukyo.
	But all this did not excuse what Kasumi knew in her mind to 
be her negligence in spending time with her family and especially Ukyo 
during this time of need. She knew how Ukyo must be suffering 
through this trauma and felt it was her duty to help ease it. Kasumi 
knew that Ukyo viewed her as the Mother figure of sorts in her life. 
And that regard was returned in a different way by Kasumi. The eldest 
Tendo experienced a Motherly instinct in regards to Ukyo that at times 
threatened to surpass her own protective feelings towards her sisters. 
Perhaps this was because of the harsh life Ukyo had led on the road 
and the many tragedies that always seemed to befall her.
	So feeling this way Kasumi made her way up the crickety 
steps to the attic and politely knocked on the door while saying, 
"Ukyo? Are you awake? It's Kasumi."
	There was a loud creak of the floorboards as soft steps 
sounded their way towards the door. It opened to reveal the bleary 
form of a male Ukyo clad in a blue tank top and boxer shorts with a 
horrible case of bed head as his hair was not pulled back in it's usual 
ponytailed state.
	Observing this Kasumi was surprised that Ukyo had heard her 
knock and call from the other side of the door. She knew from the few 
occasions when Ukyo did sleep in it was practically impossible to 
wake her.
	"Kasumi?" asked Ukyo as he rubbed his eyes. "Is something 
the matter?"
	"Nothing is the matter," said Kasumi while forming a 
concerned expression. "Oh dear, I woke you. I didn't mean to. I 
thought it would be all right to come up and talk to you a few minutes 
before I left for school. You're usually awake by this time in order to 
prepare for your morning work out with Ojisama Saotome."
	"Oh yeah..." Ukyo trailed off searchingly as his sandalwood 
eyes clouded over. Shrugging he focused back on Kasumi while 
saying, "I guess Pops is sleeping in today because I never got a wake 
up call." Gazing at Kasumi who looked a bit uncomfortable hovering 
outside the doorway to his room he stepped backwards and gestured 
for her to enter. "C'mon in Kasumi. What did you want to talk about?"
	Primly taking a seat on the only chair Ukyo had in the nearly 
empty room Kasumi said, "I was wondering how you are doing. 
Because of my hectic schedule with school we haven't gotten a chance 
to talk much lately and I've been worried. So," Kasumi pronounced as 
she eyed Ukyo with gentle light brown eyes. "How are you doing?"
	"Better," said Ukyo. Taking a seat across from Kasumi on his 
mattress Ukyo murmured, "When I first realized what Cologne did to 
me it was horrible... it was like she stole who I really was from me and 
trapped me as something that was the complete opposite. But when I 
saw how all of you were helping me, that you all loved me despite my 
appearance, I..." Ukyo said softly, "I knew that she hadn't stolen 
anything from me. I was still Kuonji Ukyo inside and that's all that 
matters. It still hurts though," he admitted while staring at his body in 
slight disgust. "To look like this. It shouldn't be this way. This isn't who 
I am."
	"Oh Ukyo," said Kasumi tenderly. "We love you no matter 
what. How you look makes no difference to us."
	"I know that," replied Ukyo as he lifted sandalwood eyes to 
gaze into light brown ones. "Now."
	Studying Ukyo carefully Kasumi gracefully rose to her feet and 
opened her arms while saying, "Come here."
	In an almost dazed state Ukyo moved a few slow steps until 
he fell into Kasumi's embrace, clinging to her long skirt as would a 
small child. Falling gently to the floor Kasumi brought Ukyo down with 
her and the boy buried his face in her lap as she gently stroked his long 
head of hair.
	"It will be all right," assured Kasumi as she stared at his 
crumpled form. "Please don't be sad Ukyo... everything will be all 
right."
	Ukyo's only response was a shuddering sigh as he clung tighter 
to the older girl who smiled fondly at this. Kasumi knew he needed 
this, to let go of himself and allow someone else to take care of him 
while he experienced the feelings of helplessness he'd been holding 
back the past days. It touched Kasumi's heart that Ukyo felt safe 
enough with her to chose her as the one to do this with. She realized 
the reason she had been chosen was that Ukyo was most likely 
ashamed to appear so weak around Ranma. Like Kasumi the 
okonomiyaki chef was aware of how his iinazuke looked up to him in 
many ways for always being so strong. Having already let himself fall 
apart in Ranma's presence Ukyo was reluctant to do so again.
	It was different with Kasumi though, Ukyo thought as he 
rubbed his tearing eyes with the back of his hand. She was the Mother 
he had never known and Ukyo knew he could trust her with anything. 
Pulling back from Kasumi's comforting hold Ukyo offered a shaky 
smile.
	"Thanks," he said quietly while ducking her gaze. "I needed 
that."
	"Anytime," replied Kasumi tenderly. Reaching out she brushed 
her fingertips against his cheek in a feather light touch. "Anytime you 
need me I'll be there."
	Lifting his eyes to gaze deeply into Kasumi's tranquil stare 
Ukyo knew she spoke the truth and clearing his throat he said, "I love 
you Kasumi."
	Surprised for a moment Kasumi blinked as her heart was 
warmed by these words and she replied, "I love you too Ukyo. You're 
just like a sister to me."
	"You're the Mother I never had Kasumi," admitted Ukyo 
shyly.
	They were silent for several moments taking this information in 
when Ukyo rose to his feet suddenly while saying, "You better get 
going. You're going to be late for class and I need to take a bath." 
Offering a hand to Kasumi he pulled the eldest Tendo sister to her feet 
smoothly. Grinning widely he said, "We can't have the prize med 
student of Tokyo University being late for class, can we now?"
	Smiling softly at the return of Ukyo's usual teasing banter 
Kasumi replied, "No we can't. Although my classes are at Nekomi 
Tech today."
	Ukyo looked sheepish as they exited his room and headed 
downstairs. Scratching the back of his tangled head of hair he said, 
"It's hard to keep track of your schedule Kasumi. We barely see you 
these days." Tilting his head to one side he asked, "How about you? 
How're classes going?"
	"Wonderful," said Kasumi in excited tones. "They take a great 
deal of work and concentration but everything is just so interesting I 
don't mind it. Although I do miss the dojo and spending time with all of 
you," Kasumi said sadly.
	"You're kidding, right?" asked Ukyo as he chuckled. "It's 
crazy around here. Nothing is ever going right and we're always getting 
into some sort of trouble."
	Smiling fondly Kasumi said, "I like to think of our lives as 
entertaining and leave it at that."
	"Huh," said Ukyo thoughtfully. "That's one way to look at 
things I suppose." Pausing at the doorway to the furo he leaned against 
it while smiling. "You always have a bright outlook on things Kasumi. 
How do you do it?"
	"Faith," replied Kasumi wearing a soft smile.
	Watching Kasumi walk away and down the stairs Ukyo said 
to himself, "Faith she says." Shrugging he entered the furo and sighed 
at the thought of being forced to take another cold bath.

	"Honored Elder," stated Saotome Nodoka as she gave a 
formal bow. "I wish to speak with you about your recent actions 
surrounding Kuonji Ukyo."
	Cologne eyed Nodoka who was standing stiffly in the middle 
of the closed restaurant with her right hand resting on her ever present 
katana. The sword was a family heirloom and Cologne knew all too 
well the value at which Nodoka held it. She also knew when the early 
morning knock at the door to the Nekohaten had sounded trouble 
would come from it but she had not expected it from one who now 
seemed so reserved. Quite the difference from her attitudes of the 
past, thought Cologne curiously. 
	But then again, Nodoka was raised a person of honor by her 
family, who came from legendary Samurai origins and still practiced 
the ancient art of the blade. And Cologne knew a certain infallible fact 
about people of honor, they were always stubborn when it came to 
resolving what they saw as wrongs against them and those they cared 
for.
	When Cologne had seen Nodoka in the Tendo dojo it had 
come as something of a shock. Despite her years it still amazed 
Cologne how the past could continue to relive itself and those who met 
once could cross paths again and again. My goddess, thought Cologne 
wryly, is a mistress of chance.
	"Nodoka," acknowledged Cologne formally. "I did not expect 
to encounter you again. The manner in which you left our ranks left 
little hope for a reunion. In fact, I was not expecting to see any of your 
comrades. I suppose I should have paid more attention to the curiosity 
of a wandering boy and panda visiting our village. Strange that we 
should renew our acquaintance now of all times," Cologne said. "What 
is it you wish to discuss with me involving Kuonji?"
	"I would like to request that you undo whatever you have 
done to her. She does not deserve such punishment and by doing so 
you are not only affecting her but all those around her." Forming a grim 
expression Nodoka continued, "Although you may not realize it you 
are invoking the wrath of many clever individuals. They are working 
together to aid Ukyo in retrieving a cure to the Cat-Tongue. Having 
them angry with you is not to your benefit."
	"I will keep that in mind," said Cologne dryly. "But I regret to 
inform you that the opinions of others still has little influence over me. I 
am doing what is necessary for the good of my tribe and Great 
Granddaughter." Tilting her head she studied her companion closely. 
"Why are you so concerned with Kuonji's welfare?"
	Clenching her jaw Nodoka's brown eyes darkened and with 
steely reserve she said, "She is my son's iinazuke."
	"Son? Iinazuke?" questioned Cologne in surprise.
	"Genma and I are married," said Nodoka coolly. "My son is 
Ranma. He is the boy that you claim is obligated to be Shampoo's 
second Airen."
	Cologne looked even more surprised at this as she said lowly, 
"The fates be with you Nodoka. I saw you and Genma sitting by the 
boy while in the dojo but I never imagined..." Lifting her gaze she 
stared hard at Nodoka and asked, "Why did you do it? What could 
have possessed you to marry Genma of all people?"
	"He offered me solace," Nodoka informed in clipped precise 
tones. "Though he may not seem it he can be very kind. What we lack 
in similarities of spirit we make up in the fire of passion our differences 
spark." Boring her dark gaze forward Nodoka said, "I have never 
regretted marrying Genma, as odd as that may sound to you."
	Mulling over this answer Cologne replied, "As you say it I 
believe it to be true. I will consider what you have told me this day, 
Nodoka, although I doubt very much it will alter the plans I have 
already made. Trust my wisdom in these matters. After all, did I not 
put you in much the same situation with Silk? Was not the result 
favorable?"
	Flinching on hearing the long unspoken name from her past 
Nodoka replied in controlled tones, "Yes. Yes it was. But I must 
remind you that the test you put before us did not help in averting the 
troubles which plagued us."
	"This is a different game is it not?" Cologne prodded. "Is it not 
possible that my influence will produce a happier result in this 
instance?"
	"Perhaps," allowed Nodoka. "This may be a different game 
having different players but it shares the same inevitable unhappiness." 
Placing both her hands on her katana she turned and made her way 
stiffly out of the Nekohaten. "I warn you again before I take my leave 
of you honored Elder, be careful in selecting your tests for these 
warriors, for they are wilier than we ever were. Be well."
	"Nodoka," called Cologne to the departing figure. In response 
to this Nodoka froze at the entrance to the restaurant. "I feel you 
should know that Silk lives. She has returned to the tribe and is now 
our Lore Master. Carrying on in the tradition of Lotion the Elder."
	Silence enveloped the restaurant as a thick fog of tension filled 
the air. Straightening shoulders which had slumped on receiving this 
news Nodoka remained stoically silent as she opened the door to the 
Nekohaten and exited. Watching this departure Cologne murmured to 
herself, "And so the past returns in more ways than one. The Goddess 
be merciful to us all."

	"Mother?" asked Ranma as cobalt eyes took in the form of his 
Mother walking down the street towards them. "I didn't know you 
were up already. What're you doing?"
	Nodoka observed the group of younger martial artists and 
cursed herself for not leaving earlier. She forgot how they tended to 
leave for school ahead of time due to the many skirmishes they often 
got into on the way there.
	"Nothing much Ranma," said Nodoka kindly. "I was just 
enjoying a nice stroll in the early morning sun. This area can be quite 
peaceful if you catch it at the right time."
	Beaming at this reply Ranma nodded and said, "Yeah. It is 
sort of weird looking at the place now to think about how much crazy 
stuff happens around here."
	"It's peaceful looking, if you don't count the huge craters in the 
street," commented Ukyo wryly.
	"True," Nodoka said bemused. "You better hurry along to 
school or you'll be late."
	"Yes Mother," said Ranma obediently as he and the others 
made their way leisurely down the street. Pausing at the end of it he 
turned to wave one last goodbye to his Mother only to find the street 
empty. Shaking his dark head he said to himself, "How does she do 
that?"
	"Do what?" questioned Ryoga. Blinking dark brown eyes 
looked at the abandoned street. "Hey... where'd she go?"
	"Auntie comes from a long line of Samurai," said Akane 
proudly. "She has all sorts of tricks you wouldn't expect. When we 
were little and used to play hide and go seek with her it was nearly 
impossible to find her unless she wanted you to." Turning her gaze to 
Ranma she jibed, "It's just too bad you never inherited any of her 
skills."
	Ranma fumed at this remark but before he could make a retort 
Ukyo smoothly intervened by saying, "Instead Ranma honey has a 
whole new batch of skills of his own."
	"Hah," mocked Ranma as he looked smugly at Akane. "And 
you know Ucchan is always right. So there!"
	"She can't always be right if she's in love with you," teased 
Akane. "There are much better choices."
	Rolling sandalwood eyes Ukyo drawled, "Never question love 
Akane. It really isn't something you can pick and choose on."
	"Like Shampoo," said Ryoga seriously as he suddenly joined 
the conversation. "I don't think she would have chosen to fall in love 
with you two if she had the choice. It's making her life so complicated 
and difficult. It can't be easy with all those laws they have. But still," he 
rested a deep and solemn gaze on the couple. "She loves you both."
	The group was silent as they considered his serious words and 
Ranma finally said quietly, "She really does love us Ucchan." Shifting 
his gaze to the lanky boy next to him he questioned, "What're we going 
to do about it?"
	"I don't know," replied Ukyo thoughtfully. "I just don't know."
	Again a short silence enveloped the friends when a familiar 
sardonic lilt filled the air. "Now I know why I don't walk to school 
with all of you. Depressing conversation."
	"Nabchan!" exclaimed Ukyo, forming a wide smile as he 
focused on the approaching girl who had her school bag slung over 
one shoulder and a lazy grin on her sharp features. "We thought you 
already left for school."
	Nabiki looked slightly sheepish at this statement. "I slept in 
believe it or not. Today," she pronounced. "Is going to be busy. 
Besides, I needed my rest, what with all the promotion for the 
Nekohaten I have to take care of. There's no time to be making side 
bets and such. So," said Nabiki as she stood by Ukyo and bore her 
hazel gaze into him. "Are we keeping the Cat-Tongue a secret or do 
you want to explain the situation to the whole school?"
	"Might as well tell them," said Ukyo with a sigh. "It'll be awhile 
before when can get that Phoenix pill away from the old ghoul and until 
then I'm stuck as a guy. If we tell them straight off what the deal is 
maybe we'll get some sympathy and possibly more help."
	"Lots of help from the guys," grumbled Ranma. "They won't be 
happy about you being trapped in your boy form Ucchan. That much 
is for sure."
	The pigtailed boy groused as he thought about the various 
lewd comments the other boys at school said about his iinazuke when 
they thought he couldn't hear. While he understood their attraction to 
Ukyo, because he certainly shared it, he remained internally jealous at 
any male who looked at his iinazuke in such a manner. It just wasn't 
right. Ukyo was his iinazuke, not theirs! Didn't they have any sense of 
propriety about these things? Apparently not.
	"Time for information control," stated Nabiki with resolve as 
she wandered ahead of the group and into the Furinkan school yard 
towards her cohorts.
	"I wonder what she's got up her sleeve," Ryoga commented as 
they observed her odd departure.
	Shaking her head Akane leaned against Ryoga as she linked 
her arm with his. "I think we're better off not knowing what goes on in 
Nabiki's head Ryochan. It'd probably just give us both a big 
headache."
	Blushing at Akane's touch Ryoga said, "Maybe you're right 
Akane."
	It was then that maniacal laughter echoed in the air and the 
entire populous of Furinkan high turned simultaneously to observe the 
arrival of the infamous black rose Kodachi. Dressed in the traditional 
brown uniform for St. Hebereke she wore a smug smile on her refined 
features as she stood proudly atop the front wall to Furinkan. Standing 
next to her was a girl that struck a chord of familiarity in those gazing 
at her but none could place her face no matter how hard they tried. 
The girl was certainly pretty having neatly combed chocolate brown 
hair that was styled similar to Nabiki's. She wore a pair of expensively 
tailored blank pants along with a sleeveless white silk blouse which 
was unbuttoned enough to reveal just a glimpse of cleavage. The outfit 
also included a matching black tailored jacket that was tied tightly 
around the girl's curvaceous waist. Standing next to Kodachi she had 
an odd combination of boredom and nervousness on her features.
	"Greetings commoners," Kodachi pronounced airily. Taking 
the silent girl's hand in her own she leapt gracefully from the wall to 
stand in front of Ukyo. Observing him with speculating violet eyes 
Kodachi said, "Kuonji. I grieve for the unfortunate turn in your life. We 
are not friends but we are no longer enemies and this treachery 
enforced upon you I find unacceptable. Consider yourself aptly allied 
with the black rose and count your blessings for being so." Turning her 
attention to the girl next to her Kodachi offered a fond smile as she 
leaned in to give her companion a soft kiss before whispering 
something quietly into her ear. Bounding towards the high front wall to 
stand atop it Kodachi paused in her exit to call out, "Be at the allotted 
time and place to receive the full benefit of my aid." Saying this she 
produced a business card out of nowhere and flung it at a startled 
Ukyo who caught it swiftly between his fingers. And with that Kodachi 
took her exit with her usual flourish of black rose petals following 
behind.
	"She's such a show off," the girl who had arrived with Kodachi 
said fondly, breaking the silence that the gymnast's exit had caused. 
Adjusting her gaze she took in the crowd of curious faces that met her 
and groaned loudly. Placing her hands on her hips she said, "Don't tell 
me you stupid dorks don't recognize me!" Taking in all the blank faces 
she groaned again before focusing in on Ryoga who wore a look of 
confusion on his handsome features which only served to upset her 
more. "You too Ryochan? Even you don't know who I am?!"
	"You're Sakura," said Ryoga in puzzlement. The confusion the 
lost boy was experiencing came from the fact that he couldn't figure 
out was what Sakura was wearing. He'd never seen his best friend 
dressed so fancy before. It was very disconcerting. "What are you 
wearing?"
	"Dolce and something," Sakura said with a shrug. Doing a little 
twirl she wore a goofy smile on her pretty features as she asked, "Like 
it? Dachi wanted to play dress up. It was actually kind of fun."
	Ryoga's brow furrowed at this and he folded his arms over his 
broad chest. "You don't look like yourself. You look like a model." 
Eyeing her in definite annoyance he stated plainly, "I don't like it."
	"Y'know Ryochan," said Sakura amiably as she walked to his 
side and punched him in the arm. "Only you could manage to insult and 
compliment me at the same time."
	"I think you look spectacular sugar," drawled Ukyo as he 
approached. "But what is this all about?"
	Smiling widely at Ukyo's praise Sakura averted her gaze to the 
business card Kodachi had given him. "I got Dachi to agree to help us 
out. She thinks that there might be a metabolic reason for your 
aversion to hot water. Make sure you're at the St. Hebereke chemistry 
lab at that time and place so she can run tests on you. Without your 
help in gathering data she won't be able to figure out what's going on."
	"Kodachi is going to help me?" asked Ukyo baffled. "Are we 
talking about the same Kodachi? Kuno Kodachi? The black rose of 
St. Hebereke? Lethal gymnast who hates my guts? That Kodachi? 
You sure?"
	"Dachi doesn't hate you Ucchan," said Sakura exasperated as 
she rolled back green eyes. "She just feels a wee bit of jealousy 
towards you, that's all. Anyway, she isn't heartless y'know. If you 
know what's good for you I'd take her help. She's already taken care 
of the Kuno problem in case you haven't noticed."
	"Yeah," said Ranma in confusion while blue eyes scanned the 
front lawn. "Where is he anyway? I was expecting to hear him 
screaming the usual junk about his arch nemesis the 'ponytailed boy' 
by now."
	"He's right there," said Sakura.
	Tipping her head to one side Sakura subtly gestured towards 
Kuno who was walking in the front entrance. He wore the traditional 
boys school uniform for Furinkan and carried a leather satchel at his 
waist. His handsome features looked introspective as he quietly 
crossed the lawn and went inside the school without giving Ukyo or 
anyone else a second glance. The group of friends watched this with 
certain shock until they turned back to a smug Sakura.
	"That was..." Akane trailed off searchingly. "Weird. Sakura, 
what did Dachi do to him? He looks drugged."
	The street fighter opened her mouth to reply when the shrill 
sound of the warning bell going off met their ears. On hearing it sound 
Sakura moved into a quick dash and disappeared inside the school, a 
cloud of dust following her. "Gotta go Akane!" she shouted. "I'll tell 
you later!"
	Watching this in certain annoyance Akane narrowed light 
brown eyes and grabbed Ryoga's hand in her own. Stomping into the 
school she said, "She's hiding something. I'm sure of it."
	Beside her Ryoga winced at the tight hold on his hand as it 
turned red under the pressure of her grasp and squeaked, "Hiding 
what?"
	"That," pronounced Akane in determination. "Is what I plan to 
find out."

	"<This is where my Airen studies?>" questioned Perfume 
skeptically. "<It does not look impressive enough to educate her 
mind.>"
	The Amazon Enforcer resided next to Shampoo as both the 
girls remained perched on the outer wall surrounding Furinkan while 
they waited for the lunch bell to sound. They carried with them ample 
ramen for the entire group of martial artists to eat. What was currently 
occupying Perfume's mind was the horrible condition the school was 
in. There were gaping holes all over the various buildings not to 
mention the gigantic craters in the yard.
	"<It's a public school,>" said Shampoo dryly. "<What did you 
expect? I wouldn't be too harsh in judging it's conditions because I'm 
almost certain that it was our Airens and their companions who caused 
it to look so run down.>"
	"<Run down?>" Perfume repeated with a low chuckle. "<They 
have nearly decimated the main building. It looks almost on the verge 
of collapsing.>"
	"<They are powerful martial artists,>" reminded Shampoo. 
"<And why are you so interested in their school? Don't tell me you're 
planning to return to our studies after we've managed to escape 
them?>"
	Shaking her chestnut head Perfume murmured, "<Not 
everyone despises the process of learning Xian-pu. Some of us find 
school an enjoyable experience.>"
	"<And they are all sadists,>" Shampoo said. "<Why should I 
bother with it? I don't need the meaningless facts they teach to become 
a great fighter.>"
	"<There are other things in life besides fighting,>" noted 
Perfume. "<Why don't you concentrate of them for once?>"
	"<Maybe because I was raised to be a fighter and it's the only 
thing I'm really good at,>" grumbled Shampoo as she folded her arms 
across her ample chest.
	Studying her companion closely Perfume said gently, "<You're 
only saying that because of what the others say about us in the village. 
I thought you knew better than to listen to them. They're nothing but a 
bunch of jealous clucking hens. Don't let their petty words keep you 
from trying new things. Believe in yourself and you'll succeed.>" 
Pausing Perfume flashed Shampoo a charming grin while saying, 
"<Trust me, I should know. Didn't I overcome the odds set against me 
to become our tribal Enforcer? It wasn't like anyone handed me the 
job.>"
	Mulling over this Shampoo finally said, "<I suppose you're 
right. And I just thought of a great reason for returning to our 
studies.>"
	"<Oh?>" asked Perfume, already grinning at the mischievous 
tone in her companion's voice. "<What's that?>"
	"<Attending school with my Airens of course,>" purred 
Shampoo. "<With them around I'll certainly always be entertained. 
Plus from the look of this place I bet it would be a great site to 
continue my training.>" Pausing Shampoo's scarlet eyes gleamed in 
anticipation. "<New fights and challengers every day... I'd improve my 
skill levels at twice the usual pace if I did my work outs here.>"
	Chuckling, Perfume teased, "<You'll be entertained but it 
won't help you with your studies. I know you Cousin. You'll spend all 
your time looking at them with starry eyes.>"
	"<As if you are any better about Nabiki,>" sniffed Shampoo. 
"<It was your idea to bring them lunch today. Couldn't wait until this 
afternoon to see her, huh?>"
	"<No...>" said Perfume softly as she rested her chin on her 
knees while she drew them close to her chest. "<I wanted to see 
Nabiki in her environment. From what you've said her studies are as 
important to her as they are to me. And that tells me she might share 
my vision for greater things. I think Nabiki wishes to accomplish her 
goals in life through education and knowledge.>" Sapphire eyes 
locked with scarlet ones and Perfume offered Shampoo a fond smile. 
"<Just as you and your Airens hope to find a future for yourselves in 
the art. That is what you search for in your hearts. I am here because I 
want to gain a better ability to see what is in my Airen's.>"
	"<Always so serious Pur-fum,>" murmured Shampoo 
bemused. "<Even as children. I think you will do well with Nabiki. She 
may be the only person more serious than yourself.>"
	"<Love is a serious game,>" said Perfume resolutely while 
rising to her feet. Grasping a take out box in one hand she shaded 
sapphire eyes and said, "<They're starting to get restless. I'd give the 
lunch bell less than a minute.>"
	As if on cue the ringing sound of the lunch bell going off 
resounded in the air and Shampoo turned to her fellow Amazon to 
say, "<I hate it when you do that.>"
	Grinning widely Perfume shrugged. "<Mother nature equipped 
me with a major flaw but made up for it by blessing me as well. So it 
equals out. Nothing to gripe about.>"
	Watching her companion bound stealthily from the wall to the 
front entrance of the school Shampoo muttered to herself, "<And who 
said I'm griping?>"

	Standing in the crowded hallway next to his iinazuke Ranma 
glanced to where Kuno stood searching through his leather satchel. 
"Ucchan, I think I need to..." he began slowly but before he could say 
any more Ukyo simply gave the other boy a gentle shove in the back.
	"Go on Ranchan," encouraged Ukyo. "I know you want to 
talk to him. I'll be in our usual place eating lunch and waiting for you."
	Breaking into a wide smile Ranma's blue eyes conveyed 
thanks then they broke away as the pigtailed boy headed towards his 
friend. Watching his exit Ukyo couldn't blame his curiosity. He knew 
Ranma and Kuno had been friends since early adolescence and 
according to Ranma the Kendo champion had always been slightly... 
erratic in behavior. Today was the first day in a long time Ranma had 
seen Kuno act with any emotional control and it was fairly shocking. 
Ukyo gave his iinazuke one final glance before heading outside for 
lunch. Ranma was absorbed in what looked to be a serious discussion 
with Kuno. Observing this thoughtfully the okonomiyaki chef pushed 
away his own curiosity on the sudden change as he headed down 
stairs. Striding towards the front entrance Ukyo ignored the various 
stares of his fellow students while sandalwood eyes focused on the 
large crowd in front of him.
	Releasing a low chuckle Ukyo pushed through the group to 
indentify the cause of the gathering and said, "Nabiki. It's lunch time. 
Don't you ever take a break?"
	"Are you kidding?" asked Nabiki. "The mere concept would 
crash the stockmarket of our school. I do control the flow of vital 
information in Furinkan you realize."
	"Yeah, yeah," Ukyo waved off this response. In a smooth 
gesture he grabbed her hand in his own. "Enough controlling the flow 
of information for you sugar. You're taking a break to eat lunch and 
that's that. Got it?"
	With that Ukyo dragged Nabiki out of the crowd of teeming 
students while ignoring her weak protest of, "But I'm doing this for 
your sake! Don't you want customers to show up at the Nekohaten? 
That way we can distract Cologne and grab the necklace with the 
Phoenix pill in it."
	"Of course I want that but I doubt it'll be that easy for us. And 
I'm only doing this for your sake," said Ukyo in response. "You won't 
be any good to me or anyone else if you don't take a break. Why do 
you think you slept in for the first time in months? You're worn out 
Nabchan. Try and relax would you? If only for a little while."
	Adjusting his gaze Ukyo took in the meek form of Ryonami 
out of the corner of his eye. Crossing the hall he offered the girl a 
charming smile and said, "Your boss is going to be taking a rest. Think 
you can handle things?"
	Ryonami nodded her head silently, her eyes wide at seeing her 
Sempai being dragged around by Ukyo like a sack of potatoes. At this 
response Nabiki said, "Now wait a minute! My work load is too much 
for Ryonami to handle. And it isn't right to push off my duties on her. 
And anyway, Ryonami is supposed to take care of making the flyer 
copies while I--"
	Nabiki halted her desperate speech as Ukyo clasped his 
broad hand over her mouth. Boring a dangerous gaze into hazel eyes 
he leaned in to whisper in her ear, "Do you want me to toss you over 
my shoulder like I do during our tickling matches Nabchan?"
	Hazel eyes went wide and Nabiki pushed his hand away from 
her mouth to say, "You wouldn't dare. Not in front of everyone."
	"Do you want to take the chance?" asked Ukyo, a satisfied 
smirk on his handsome features.
	Grimacing Nabiki turned her attention to Ryonami and said, 
"Take care of making the flyer copies and make sure to tell Ryusuke in 
the Print club that they're for me so you don't have cover the supply 
charges. Don't worry about all the other details this buffoon is babbling 
about. I'll deal with them during my free period and push off the 
meetings with the Film club until later. Say around four."
	"Yes Sempai," said Ryonami obediently as she dashed off, 
giving Nabiki and Ukyo a departing glance of interest before attending 
to her duties.
	"Now you've done it," said Nabiki irately. "Do you know how 
long it is going to take to explain all of this to her? She has an insatiable 
curiosity about these things. Not to mention the fact that the entire 
school is staring at us."
	Hazel eyes subtly moved towards the crowd of students which 
were gawking at Ukyo and Nabiki. They were talking amongst 
themselves how they thought the pair were acting a little chummier than 
usual. And why was Ukyo in her male form? Since when did Nabiki 
rest? She was always on the move with new moneymaking schemes. 
Was she getting soft in her old age? If so maybe they could ask for 
extensions on their loans. This comment was met with several sarcastic 
remarks on the person who said it being in a dream world.
	"Let them stare," said Ukyo as he gave a careless shrug of his 
shoulders. Releasing her hand he walked outside and smiled as the 
warm sun hit his skin. "I couldn't care less what any of them think. I 
thought you felt the same."
	"You know very well the opinions of those sheep don't affect 
me in the slightest," sniffed Nabiki as she ran her fingers through 
auburn hair to straighten it. "I would just prefer to abstain from 
embarrassing situations around them. It doesn't help my reputation you 
see."
	Ukyo rolled his eyes at this. "You and your--"
	The okonomiyaki chef stopped his speech and approach 
towards the large tree that the group had made a habit of eating their 
lunches under to stare at something flying at him at mammoth speeds. 
Before he could identify what it was strong arms wrapped themselves 
around his waist and a musical voice exclaimed, "Airen! Shampoo find 
you! Perfume be so jealous when she see Shampoo get here first!"
	Pulling back Ukyo gazed into scarlet eyes glowing with 
affection and he smiled. "Shampoo," he said a bit surprised. "What're 
you doing here?"
	"Shampoo bring Airens lunch," said Shampoo proudly as she 
held up a delivery box. "Delicious ramen. Is enough for everyone. 
Where Ranma?"
	"He's talking to Kuno," replied Ukyo as he sniffed the air in 
appreciation. "The food smells great Shampoo and I bet it tastes even 
better. C'mon, have lunch with us."
	Beaming at this invitation Shampoo clung to Ukyo's arm in a 
quick motion which nearly toppled the lithe chef over until he found his 
center of balance. Patting her arm in a gesture of fondness he gave 
backwards glance to Nabiki, who was frozen in place watching them. 
"Get your fanny moving girl. You're on a rest break remember? So 
hurry up and start resting. We've got free lunch here."
	"Later," replied Nabiki. "I'm going to stand here and rest by 
myself for a minute."
	Ukyo formed a perplexed expression at this response and was 
about to question Nabiki on it when he found himself tugged forward 
by an impatient Shampoo who was informing him on her plans for 
retrieving the Phoenix pill.
	Observing this with thoughtful hazel eyes Nabiki released a 
soft sigh. Suddenly her nerves were set on edge and hazel eyes 
scanned their surroundings quickly. "Okay," began Nabiki in warning. 
"Whoever you are I know you're watching me so you might as well 
come out."
	Instantly Perfume stealthily landed next to Nabiki and gave her 
a look of admiration. "You first one who do that to me Airen. No 
others able to sense my approach. Enforcers have to be good trackers 
in tribe."
	"I bet you're one of the best," said Nabiki as she appraised her 
companion.
	It amazed Nabiki to look at the cut of Perfume's muscles, it 
was like the girl was a living statue her body was so perfect. And that 
opinion was only gathered from observing the Amazon in her tight 
fitting outfit that included a sleeveless shirt and pants reaching barely 
below the knees. Nabiki couldn't imagine what Perfume looked like 
naked. Actually, she could quite clearly and the image this thought 
brought about caused her to tinge slightly.
	Dipping her head in recognition of this compliment Perfume 
smiled softly at Nabiki. "I am passable. Nabiki..." she said hesitantly. 
"Can I ask a question?"
	"Sure," replied Nabiki, an interested gleam in hazel eyes as she 
wondered what this could be about.
	"First I want to be saying that I no mean any disrespect with 
this question. Only want to find out what is in Airen's heart. To know 
someone's heart is best way to become one with it. Is hard to be with 
one you no nothing about," Perfume said solemnly.
	Inclining her head to one side Nabiki replied in confused 
tones, "I agree with what you're saying but where is this going 
Perfume? What is it you want to ask me?"
	"Is you in love with someone?" asked Perfume bluntly. "I want 
to know because if my Airen is in love with another I no want to get in 
way. Can find some way out of marriage, even though that not what I 
want. I be honest. I find you very attractive Nabiki. I want to be with 
you but if you not want me because you want another... that fight I no 
can win. No matter how much training. I do honorable thing and step 
aside if this is true. So," Perfume paused as her sapphire eyes analyzed 
Nabiki. "Can you tell me? Is you in love with someone?"
	Completely flabbergasted, Nabiki gaped at the Amazon 
Enforcer while her mind attempted to process this question. Shaking 
her head that was buzzing with confusion Nabiki snapped out of her 
stupor at the sound of the fallen leaves being crunched underfoot. 
Hazel eyes zeroed in on the source and caught the crowd of Furinkan 
students she had been doing business with now gathering near to 
better hear their conversation. The students wore a variety of shocked 
and intrigued faces. Seeing this Nabiki knew they had heard Perfume's 
final words.
	Grimacing at this reality Nabiki turned back to Perfume and 
said in Mandarin, "<We should continue this conversation in your 
language. I'm afraid mine has far too many eavesdroppers involved.>"
	After saying this Nabiki gave the crowd of onlookers an icy 
glare which caused many of them to shrink backwards. Ignoring this 
reaction she straightened her shoulders and began walking to the far 
side of the yard. It was under heavy construction and knowing the 
schedule of the workers Nabiki trusted their conversation to be 
private.
	The Amazon Enforcer paused in pursuing her Airen to turn 
towards the inquisitive crowd of students. Setting down the take out 
box she carried Perfume produced her double bladed axes from 
nowhere and held them in a forbidding grip before snarling at the 
students. As she did this Perfume slowly lifted the axes as if she was 
ready to use them. This action resulted in the students blanching in 
terror as they dispersed at incredible speeds, several of them toppling 
over each other in their attempt to hide from both Nabiki and 
especially Perfume's wrath.
	Smiling at this reaction Perfume safely tucked away her axes 
from where they came and asked, "<Are they always this nosy?>"
	"<Always,>" replied Nabiki wearily. "<I imagine you got a lot 
of the same thing. After all, you lived in a small isolated village in the 
depths of a mountain range. There had to be a good amount of gossip 
going on there.>"
	Stopping as they had reached their location Nabiki leaned 
against a stack of bricks to sit lightly on their edge as hazel eyes 
regarded her companion carefully.
	"<Yes,>" Perfume admitted. "<But in my tribe there is at least 
an attempt to be subtle. The people here do not even appear to be 
concerned with that at all.>"
	"<Chalk it up to blatant stupidity,>" Nabiki drawled. Tilting 
her head to one side she examined Perfume closely, causing the 
Amazon to flush from such attention on the part of her Airen. "<And in 
regards to your question... I am not in love with anyone. At least, not 
to my knowledge. So now it's my turn. What led you to ask me such a 
question?>"
	"<Like I said before,>" said Perfume lowly as she avoided eye 
contact with Nabiki. "<I wanted to know what was in your heart. If 
you were truly in love with another I would have rescinded your 
obligation to me.>"
	"<Even if it got you in trouble with your Great Grandmother 
and the tribal Elders? That doesn't sound like the action of a loyal 
Enforcer to me,>" Nabiki said a bit skeptically.
	Nabiki had no idea where the conversation was going but it 
was making her feel thoroughly nervous. She had never seen anyone 
regard her with such honest emotion as Perfume had just done in 
asking the question. It completely baffled Nabiki to think that someone 
would care that much, respect her feelings that much, to ask such a 
thing. All her life she had been the one people overlooked because she 
seemed fine. Don't worry about Nabiki, they would always say. She 
can handle it. She can handle anything. This was how it had always 
been. No one had ever taken the time to ask her feelings about things. 
No one... but her Mother.
	Oh, she knew it was partially her fault for appearing so icy and 
in control all of the time but that was her defense. Was she supposed 
to drop the defenses that had long protected her just for the empathy 
of others? Doing so was hardly what Nabiki would consider an equal 
arrangement. Especially when she had her Mother to talk to. Her 
Mother always understood and listened to her so why would she need 
others for such a task?
	Then her Mother died and she was alone with the grief 
because no one would ask. No one cared enough to ask about her 
feelings. They just assumed she was all right. No one took the time to 
think otherwise. No one tried to dig beneath the surface, to scale the 
wall she had surrounded her heart with. No one... until now. Until 
Perfume.
	She was taking the time to see past the barrier Nabiki had put 
between her and the real world. To see the real person inside the false 
shell she presented for her own emotional protection. She had done 
this and in doing so raised a hope in Nabiki that both excited and 
frightened her.
	Snapping out of the self-induced daze caused by her mental 
wanderings Nabiki focused on what Perfume was saying.
	Gazing at her Airen with serious eyes Perfume said, "<Maybe 
so but it is the truth none-the-less. I do not want to be with someone 
who will never want me. That would be a far worse fate than anything 
the Elders could throw at me.>" Offering Nabiki a tender smile she 
said softly, "<I appreciate you telling me the truth Airen. I know you 
are uncomfortable about your obligation to me but you did not use that 
or this opportunity to escape from it. Thank you.>"
	"<Escape...?>" asked Nabiki perplexed. As the meaning 
behind the words dawned on her she said coolly, "<I may do a lot of 
things that run the line of dishonesty but lying to you about this? That 
was never an option.>" After saying this Nabiki formed an aloof 
expression while cutting the eye contact she had shared with her 
companion.
	Observing this quiet withdrawal Perfume took a single step 
forward and rested her hands on Nabiki's shoulders. Nabiki stiffened 
at this contact at first then gentle hands traced a path down her back 
and she found herself being pulled tenderly forward. Her face resting in 
the crook of Perfume's neck Nabiki breathed in the light scent of bath 
oils as limber fingers rubbed her backside in a circular motion. Without 
knowing it she reached her hands outwards to cling to the sides of 
Perfume's silk shirt.
	"<I am sorry,>" breathed Perfume quietly. "<I did not mean to 
hurt you... I would never deliberately hurt you Nabiki. All I want right 
now in this world is to know you. Truly know you as no other does. I 
wish for you to trust me so I may be your release. Do not feel the need 
to hide your feelings from me. I will never use them against you. I 
swear it as I swear I want to know everything about you.>"
	"<You want to be my Bobo?>" asked Nabiki in a rough voice 
that sounded of slight tears and dry humor.
	"<What is your Bobo?>" Perfume questioned while she ran 
her fingers through short auburn hair, memorizing this moment in her 
mind.
	Laughing quietly Nabiki unconsciously moved closer to 
Perfume, gaining comfort from feeling the other girl's chest rise and fall. 
"<Bobo is the name of my stuffed teddy bear,>" Nabiki confessed. 
"<He was a gift from my Mother. After she died I... had no one to 
really talk to so I'd talk to him. I used to tell him everything. In a way it 
was like I was talking to Mother through him.>"
	"<Ah,>" said Perfume in understanding, her sculptured face 
glowing in happiness. "<I think I would like to be your Bobo.>"
	Pulling away Nabiki looked up at Perfume who studied her 
with soft concern. Taking Perfume's hands in her own Nabiki gave 
them a soft tug, telling the other girl silently to take a seat next to her. 
Obeying this quiet need Perfume smoothly sat across from Nabiki who 
was staring at their entwined fingers. Finally after several moments 
Nabiki lifted her hazel gaze to lock with Perfume's sapphire one.
	"<I want to thank you for listening to me,>" said Nabiki. 
Pausing a moment she formed an impish smile then said, "<Bobo.>"
	Chuckling lowly at this Perfume tapped Nabiki gently on the 
nose and said, "<Because you are my Airen and I know what it means 
to you I will allow you to call me such a ridiculous name. But only in 
private. If you should ever take it in your head to call me that around 
Xian-pu...>" the Amazon Enforcer trailed off ominously.
	Raising an eyebrow Nabiki wore an exaggerated expression 
of arrogance. "<Oh? And what's to stop me?>"
	"<Two simple words,>" said Perfume confidently. "<Tickle 
attack.>"
	"<You know,>" Nabiki began, her hazel eyes twinkling. 
"<There has to be some law against everyone picking on me like this. I 
have one little weakness and for some reason anytime someone finds 
out about it I get assaulted. Isn't there some sort of protectorate 
device employed in your expansive Amazon history defending the 
rights of the ticklish?>"
	"<None what-so-ever,>" Perfume replied with grin. "<You are 
out of luck this time.>"
	Studying the glowing face of the Amazon across from her 
Nabiki thought the exact opposite. She was very much in luck by 
meeting this girl. Very much indeed.

	"Kuno," said Ranma slowly while he approached his old 
friend. "Are you feeling all right? You seem a little down today. Is 
something bugging you?"
	"Saotome," pronounced Kuno quietly as he turned to face the 
other boy. For the first time since they were children Ranma saw the 
shine of pain in tawny eyes. "I feel, as you say, perfectly all right. My 
mind has finally been cleared of the demons which haunted it. And 
now in my greatest hour of personal recognition I regret that words 
may not be enough to express the depth of my sorrow at the hurt I 
have caused you. That is what bugs me. You, who are my only true 
friend, I have betrayed by my own base actions. Yet you have never 
blamed me for these actions. Why is this? Why did you allow me to 
openly and dishonorably pursue your iinazuke? Not only did I plague 
her with unwanted romantic attention I attacked her without cause on 
many occasions. You should have struck me down. Such an action 
would have been justifiable considering my putrid conduct."
	Wearing a blank expression Ranma stared at Kuno like he had 
just grown another head. Kuno observed this with attentive eyes and 
questioned, "Saotome? Are you feeling ill? Do you wish me to take 
you to the nurses office?"
	"No..." said Ranma dazedly. "I'm okay. It's just... been so long 
since you've talked so..." he trailed off embarrassed.
	Hearing Kuno talk was a flashback of the past. For Ranma it 
was a shock to see the reemergence of the person he had first become 
friends with. This was the Kuno of the old days who was quiet and 
thoughtful. Much different than the brash and tactless person the 
Kendoist had developed into. Being a child at the time Ranma had no 
understanding of why Kuno's personality suddenly shifted when they 
grew into adolescence. His friend had always spoke oddly, that was 
for certain, but the overly serious pensive side of his nature 
disappeared in favor for a bolder more obnoxious streak. Despite 
these strange changes in his character Ranma still considered Kuno 
one of his closest friends and remained loyal to their bond. And after 
so many years, his old friend, his first friend, had seemingly returned to 
him.
	"Sanely?" Kuno asked dryly. "I do not blame your shocked 
state in the least my friend. After all, I have not given you much 
example of any instances of sanity on my part. My behavior in the past 
years has been utterly degenerate and wrong. I wish I could have an 
explanation for it but I do not..." Kuno paused and formed an 
expression that was both troubled and thoughtful. "It is as if I had lived 
these past years outside of myself. Unable to comprehend nor control 
my deeds and thoughts. Now my mind has been cleared and the 
control is mine once more and I must take advantage of this to make 
amends to all those I have wronged. Starting first with you and your 
iinazuke Kuonji Ukyo. Name your retribution and it shall be yours."
	"Kuno," Ranma said in quiet surprise. "You don't have to do 
anything. It's okay man. I'm just happy you're feeling better." Grinning 
widely he continued, "You're a lot easier to talk to this way. And I 
assume this means you won't be chasing after Ucchan anymore?"
	"I stake my life on it," said Kuno solemnly. "I shall never even 
entertain thoughts of your iinazuke along with Tendo Akane. It has not 
escaped my attention today that she seems most familiar with that 
Hibiki character. No doubt she would take my furthered attentions, 
however more subdued with the usual animosity."
	Chuckling Ranma replied, "Yeah. That's one way of putting it. 
I never did get your thing for Akane. Ucchan I can understand. I don't 
like it, but I understand it."
	Smiling softly Kuno shook his head. "You are far too kind 
hearted for your own good Saotome. Perhaps this has lead to your 
open acceptance of many new and strange ways that I could never so 
easily accept if in your position. While I find your iinazuke attractive I 
would not pursue her even if she was not obligated to yourself in both 
heart and law."
	"How come?" asked Ranma surprised.
	"Ah... how shall I word it?" Kuno murmured quietly to himself. 
Pausing a moment in deep consideration he lifted his gaze while 
simultaneously hitting the palm of his hand with his fist in realization. 
"Recently I have come to the  awareness that your iinazuke has a habit 
of wearing men's clothing. While she remains most lovely in this garb it 
disturbs me that she furthers this action by posing as man herself, even 
going to the extent of wearing platform shoes to increase her height to 
better serve this image. I believe this fetish of hers is called cross-
dressing?" Shaking his head after saying this Kuno continued solemnly, 
"By any means, whatever it is named I do not find such pursuits 
desirable in a girl I would wish to spend time with romantically. It is 
simply too unconventional for my tastes. I do find it admirable that you 
can overlook such peculiarities though."
	"A cross-dresser?" Ranma repeated incredulously. "You think 
Ucchan is a cross-dresser?!"
	Kuno blinked and replied in steady tones, "What else could I 
think? You have a more logical explanation for her behavior then? 
Only now in the clearing of my senses did I come to realize that the 
'ponytailed boy' I fought so often over pettiness was none other than 
your iinazuke. It was fairly easy to come to such a conclusion due to 
the fact that there are a rare number of martial artists in Nerima who 
dress in Chinese style clothing while carrying large cooking utensils as 
weapons. That and her appearance does not alter much other than the 
increased height she falsifies somehow."
	"Okay," Ranma agreed uncomfortably as he scratched his 
cheek. "You've got a point there."
	He hated to admit it but Kuno did make a good case for 
assuming Ukyo was a cross-dresser. In a lot of ways it made more 
sense than having a Jusenkyo curse. Still, he had to tell his friend the 
truth. Especially since it looked like Kuno might actually understand 
and accept the story this time. The only thing was Ranma had told this 
story for what he thought to be a million times, complete with 
explanations and unwelcome questions on their personal life, and he 
was not looking forward to telling it again. But there was simply no 
other way to do it. He owed to Ucchan, Kuno, himself, and not to 
mention Furinkan to tell the Kendoist the whole story.
	So with a sigh Ranma resigned himself to fate. Slinging an arm 
around Kuno's shoulders he said, "It all started when Ucchan and my 
Father took a trip to China..."

	Darkness was something Ryoga was all together used to. He 
had wandered inside the darkness of his heart and mind for many 
years. Especially during the pursuit of Ukyo across the globe but he 
had finally freed himself from it's grasp. Yes, darkness had no hold 
over his soul anymore. All thanks to the healing influence of Tendo 
Akane.
	So knowing this Ryoga found it more than a little ironic that he 
was now residing in the darkness of a storage closet with his best 
friend hiding from Akane.
	"But why do I have to be in here?" whined Ryoga as he 
adjusted his cramped body against a nearby shelf, effectively knocking 
over its contents upon contact.
	"Because I know Akane and if she can't get any answers out 
of me she's gonna try and get them out of you. And you'll crack in 
minutes you little wussie!" retorted Sakura from the floor where she 
was moving her body into a compact little ball.
	"Wussie?!" exclaimed Ryoga. "I am not a wussie!" Puffing up 
his chest he said, "Don't you remember the time I brought down that 
whole town of angry villagers? I don't think a wussie could do 
something like that."
	"You are most definitely a wussie when it comes to Akane. 
She's got you whipped," said Sakura before imitating the sound of 
whip being cracked.
	At this Ryoga turned bright red and muttered something under 
his breath. Calming down after a second he turned his dark gaze back 
to his friend and questioned, "So tell me why we're hiding in here 
exactly. What is it that you can't tell Akane anyway?"
	Sakura looked at Ryoga then sighed. She and Ryoga had 
always told each other everything, ever since they were little kids. She 
couldn't keep secrets from him now just because of her relationship 
with Kodachi. It wouldn't be right to him or their friendship.
	"I'll tell you the whole story later," Sakura promised. "I don't 
think it's my place to tell Akane what Dachi did to make Kuno act so 
calmly. I know why but I think it's something Akane has to find out 
from Dachi herself. And that's why we're hiding in here Ryochan."
	Contemplating this slowly Ryoga finally said, "Why didn't you 
just tell Akane that? I'm sure she'd understand."
	At this comment Sakura gave Ryoga a look that said she 
considered him a madman. "Are you joking?!" she asked 
incredulously. "Akane never takes no for an answer! If I told her that 
she'll just get pissed off. That girl can be rabid when it comes to trying 
to figure out mysteries. Besides, you know how bad her temper can 
be."
	"Temper?" questioned Ryoga puzzled. "She doesn't have a 
temper."
	On hearing this Sakura gave her best friend a disgusted look 
and was about to reply when suddenly the door to the storage closet 
flew open to reveal the very person who's temper they had been 
discussing. And not to any surprise of Sakura's she looked, indeed, 
very angry.
	"Hi Akane," said Sakura weakly. "What's up?"
	Akane shifted light brown eyes from Sakura to Ryoga and on 
seeing him she exchanged the look of rage for a bemused expression. 
Leaning forward she pulled Ryoga out of the storage closet. 
"Ryochan," Akane began softly. "Did you get lost again? What were 
you doing in there?"
	"Err..." Ryoga started in nervous tones before breaking into his 
high pitched laughter.
	Taking this reaction in slowly Akane turned her attention to 
Sakura who had risen to her feet and looked to be in the process of 
making a quick escape. "And where do you think you're going?" 
Akane questioned harshly.
	Ceasing her exit midway Sakura offered Akane an overly 
bright smile and said, "Away?"
	"I don't think so," replied Akane dryly. Moving forward she 
swiftly grabbed hold of the collar to the white shirt that Kodachi had 
given Sakura. After doing this Akane dragged the street fighter down 
the hall under her tight grip all while ignoring Sakura's loud protests. 
"We're going to have a little chat about Kuno's behavior. You must 
know what's going on if you were hiding from me. And don't you dare 
think of running off again."
	Watching this from his frozen place in the hallway Ryoga 
scratched the back of his dark head and said, "Okay. Maybe she does 
have a temper."

	"I say we just flatten the old ghoul then swipe the necklace 
with the Phoenix pill," muttered Ukyo. Leaning forward he anxiously 
blew the surface to the hot bowl of ramen that sat before him. "It'd be 
a lot easier sugar."
	"Airen," chastised Shampoo as she sighed softly. "No can do 
that. Great Grandmother no let you flatten her as you say. We need be 
much clever and beat her at own game. So you make sure. Be at 
restaurant sharp after school. At least you earn money working there, 
yes?"
	"Well yeah..." Ukyo replied in slow thoughtful tones. "But I'd 
rather just bash her over the head and steal it the pill." Focusing playful 
sandalwood eyes on his companion he drawled, "Admit it. It sounds 
like fun to you too."
	Shaking her lavender head Shampoo smiled then said, "You 
have very strange sense of humor Airen."
	Chuckling Ukyo took his first taste of the free lunch given to 
him and murmured, "It's hard not to be strange with a Jusenkyo curse. 
They do kind of keep you from living a normal life." Lifting his gaze he 
licked his lips in satisfaction. "This is really good Shampoo."
	"Really?" asked Shampoo happily. "Sh--I so glad you like 
food Airen. Made it special for you!"
	"Really," said Ukyo with a wide smile, catching as the girl 
interrupted herself from speaking in third person. "I think you're a great 
cook." After saying this he formed an wistful expression and said, "I 
just wish I could cook again. I can't remember a time when I haven't 
been able to... it's always been my way of relaxing. It clears my mind 
of all confusion and reminds me of how it was when I was little and my 
Father first taught me to cook."
	"Ukyo," said Shampoo tenderly. Reaching out she gently 
placed her hand atop Ukyo's. "No be sad. We find cure for full body 
Cat-Tongue and you cook again. Is promise."
	The okonomiyaki chef started to reply when he caught sight of 
Sakura running across campus with Akane fast at her heels. Seconds 
later a huge crash sounded and the perplexed figure of Ryoga 
wandered outside onto the yard while surrounded by a cloud of dust.
	Meeting Shampoo's amused scarlet gaze Ukyo promptly said, 
"I don't think we want to know."

To be continued... 

All characters in this fanfiction are from Ranma 1/2.
Except for Sakura who is from Street Fighter and Perfume who is 
borrowed from Wade Tritschler. This fanfiction was inspired by the 
works of Rumiko Takahashi, Wade Tritschler, Jim Robert Bader, and 
many other cool folks. 

Send comments to: Dreiser1@ix.netcom.com

Visit other Altered Destinies at:
www.fortunecity.com/lavendar/attenborough/249/index.htm

Next up: Ukyo and the gang begin work at the Nekohaten as the fates 
start to reveal their plans for all the heirs. 

"I want to be a noble Prince who saves Princesses."
-Tenjou Utena from Revolutionary Girl Utena-