Switching Heirs:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Eighteen-

	Surveying her new employees carefully Cologne noted, "One 
of you is missing."
	"He got lost," supplied Sakura dryly. Immediately after saying 
this she received a sharp jab to her ribs from Akane. Wincing she 
muttered, "What'd you do that for? It's the truth. Ryochan always gets 
lost. You know that."
	"And why does she need to know that?" hissed Akane lowly, 
unaware that the Amazon Matriarch could hear what she was saying 
anyway.
	Sakura gave Akane a disbelieving stare then shifted her 
attention to Cologne. Pointing at the youngest Tendo sister she said, "I 
don't know what her problem is but I think you ought to know that my 
friend Ryoga has a really horrible sense of direction. He's not skipping 
out of work or anything like that, he just can't find his way here. And if 
you think I'm joking, I'm not. He once got lost inside a bathroom."
	"Indeed?" questioned Cologne dryly. "And where does his 
terrible affliction come from?"
	"Got me," Sakura replied easily with a shrug. "His Mom has 
got a bad sense of direction too. Must be some sort of jinx in their 
genetics."
	Cologne accessed this information and said in slow deliberate 
tones, "Very interesting." Raising her gaze she gave the group a final 
inspection. Deciding that they all looked ready for work in their 
regulated Chinese style clothing that was the Nekohaten uniforms she 
hopped into the kitchen. Sticking her head out of the large counter 
used to serve orders she said, "Perfume will be cooking with me 
today. She and I will be giving instructions to the dish washers. To 
give all of you equal opportunity for tips we will switch those who wait 
tables and those who wash dishes each work day. Shampoo will be 
helping those of you waiting tables today. I trust for you to decide 
amongst yourselves who will be doing what duties on alternating 
days."
	Observing the Elder as she headed in storage room behind the 
kitchen Perfume narrowed sapphire eyes in speculation. "She know 
something," said the Amazon Enforcer quietly. "Is not good. That for 
sure."
	"Don't sound so surprised Perfume," Nabiki drawled 
humorously. "Your Great Grandmother obviously knows a great deal. 
And she's had something in mind for all of us since the beginning. 
We'll play along for now but it'll be a different story once we get 
Ucchan's cure." Hazel eyes gained a seriousness as she continued, 
"Remember what we're here for all of you. We may be on the clock 
but the motivations behind it are our own. Now," Nabiki paused to 
smirk. "It's time to open the doors for business."
	Striding confidently to the front door Nabiki pulled back the 
entrance and they were met with an overflowing crowd of people. 
Smiling in satisfaction Nabiki turned her gaze back to the group and 
her smile deepened upon seeing Cologne observing from the kitchen. 
Turning back to the teeming crowd of wide eyed students Nabiki 
said, "Welcome to the Nekohaten. How can we serve you?"

	"Nabiki," hissed Ukyo who was taking a break from the 
constant rush of waiting tables. "How'd you get all these people to 
show up? It's crazy! Some of them aren't even from Nerima! I heard 
a couple of girls saying they took a bus here from Kyoto!"
	Hazel eyes took in their surroundings before resting back on 
Ukyo. Gesturing with her index finger for him to lean in closer she 
quickly printed up a fake bill then reached down into a bottom drawer 
to pull out a pamphlet. Opening it she folded the bill inside the 
pamphlet and handed it to Ukyo.
	"Every customer who effectively proves they are an active 
high school or college student and whose bill comes to more than five 
hundred yen gets that complimentarily. Nice promotion, huh?" Nabiki 
questioned smugly.
	Examining the pamphlet Ukyo found it was a detailed 
explanation of his current situation with the Cat-Tongue and the 
Chinese Amazons. Along with this there was background information 
on all of the Nekohaten employees that included pictures of them all. 
Ukyo noted that each photo had them wearing charming smiles and 
fairly small amounts of clothing. The chef also noticed with some 
humor that his profile was longer than the others and featured more 
than it's share of dubious pictures. Among them were several shots of 
a topless male Ukyo doing his katas and to go along with that there 
were pictures of a scantily clad Ukyo fighting in her natural female 
state.
	"Right," said Ukyo dryly as he lifted sandalwood eyes. "Real 
nice promotion."
	"That was the motivation for them to come to our grand 
opening," revealed Nabiki. "But what really brought them in were 
these flyers I had posted across the various campuses." Bending over 
she sifted through a large box of pamphlets and handed Ukyo an 
aforementioned flyer. "I figured we needed to target a customer base 
of students due to our odd business hours. After all, we're only open 
from noon until six o'clock. That doesn't leave much time to draw in 
random people off the street."
	Now studying the flyer in his hand Ukyo raised an oak brown 
eyebrow and read aloud, "Visit the world famous Nekohaten and see 
some of the most spectacular displays of martial arts in Japan. Our 
highly trained staff is here to not only serve but entertain you with their 
skills in the deadly arts." Focusing back on Nabiki he smiled wryly. 
"No wonder there was such a big showing. But the question is, will 
they be back tomorrow? I haven't had any luck trying to snag that 
Phoenix pill from the old ghoul yet, even with all these people around 
causing confusion. If I'm going to have a chance of grabbing it later I 
might need an even bigger crowd of people. As impossible as that 
sounds." Finishing this statement Ukyo gestured towards the 
overflowing restaurant as emphasis.
	"Don't worry," said Nabiki. Adjusting her gaze she nodded 
towards Sakura who was leaping into the air to catch a barrage of 
ramen orders Cologne was hurling at her. The street fighter then 
tossed the bowls into the air and by some means stacked them, one 
on top of the other, on her head then calmly strode to the table who 
ordered them. "I think we've given them reason to return and even 
more to tell their friends about us."
	Ukyo grinned and was about to reply when the sharp voice of 
Cologne interrupted him and shouted, "Son-in-law! I didn't hire you to 
loaf about! You have customers to take care of at table five!"
	Shooting Nabiki a wary look Ukyo sighed and straightened 
his shoulders. Moving through the crowd of customers he stared at 
the table with cutely smiling of girls. Table five, table five, he thought. 
Why does that sound so familiar? His handsome face formed a 
grimace as it came to him. Table five had the girls who pinched his 
butt. Hanging his head Ukyo grabbed a nearby menu and held it 
behind his back to effectively cover his posterior. Girls these days just 
don't have any sort of control, he thought grimly.

	Cobalt eyes studied the Cologne as she turned to use some 
different spices on the meal she was cooking. In that moment Ranma 
flew forward in a swift attack on the occupied Matriarch. 
Unfortunately for him Cologne had sensed the attack coming from 
almost the exact moment he had begun planning it and reaching for her 
staff calmly hit the pigtailed boy on the head causing him to fly 
backwards.
	Adding the last of her spices Cologne looked up from the 
food and at the toppled form of Ranma in the front of the restaurant 
and said, "He needs to work on his approach."
	"He not so bad," commented Perfume nearby. "For outsider. 
Ranma just not know right way to attack silent and in stealth. If we 
teach him, I bet he learn fast."
	"Ah," murmured Cologne while she readied the bowls for the 
latest order. "But he is already learning my child, more than any of you 
may think."

	"My aching back," said Ranma with a groan as Ukyo helped 
him to his feet.
	Somehow Cologne had avoided Ranma hitting any of the 
customers and he had landed at the front entrance against the podium 
Nabiki had gotten for use as her chosen job at restaurant greeter. 
Apparently the middle Tendo sister fancied the idea of being the first 
one to see who entered and exited the premises.
	"You almost had her Ranchan," Ukyo said encouragingly. 
"We'll get her next time. Don't worry."
	"I dunno Ucchan," replied Ranma wearily as he rubbed the 
small of his back. "She just keeps knocking away any attempts we 
make to snag that necklace." Tilting his dark head to one side he 
narrowed cobalt eyes and asked, "Aren't you supposed to be helping 
table five?"
	"Nope," Ukyo said smugly. "Shampoo took over that table 
after the girls there tried to grab something other than my butt."
	Despite himself Ranma released a sudden burst of laughter at 
this and Ukyo shot him a dark look. Snickering Ranma said, "I hope 
you didn't tell Shampoo that."
	"Didn't have to," said Ukyo smoothly wearing a smirk. "She 
saw it herself. That's why I don't have to worry about them anymore. 
Of course, the table she traded me for was one of all guys and they 
weren't too happy having their pretty waitress being replaced with 
me."
	"Ucchan," said Ranma softly in tender tones. "When we get 
the cure to the Cat-Tongue they'll be sorry. Because you most 
definitely will be the most beautiful girl in this joint. Hands down." 
Seeing that his iinazuke's mood had lightened Ranma formed a grin 
and asked, "So what did Shampoo do when they tried to grab these 
other things of yours?"
	Giving a low throaty chuckle Ukyo said plainly, "She told 
them to get their hands off her Airen before she broke them. After that 
they turned white as ghosts and backed away from me like I had the 
Ebola virus or something. Then Shampoo gave that cute smile of hers 
and asked them if they wanted a refill on their sodas."
	Laughing with his iinazuke Ranma commented, "I wish I 
could've seen that." Pausing he pondered, "I wonder where I was?"
	"Probably being beaten up by the old ghoul," replied Ukyo 
dryly.
	"It isn't like she hasn't cleaned your clock," Ranma reminded 
as he elbowed the other boy in the ribs.
	"Ugh," groaned Ukyo. "Don't remind me sugar. I don't think I 
can take much more of this. And I'm supposed to see Kodachi later 
today at the St. Hebereke chemistry lab. I can already hear my 
screams of terror."
	"Want me to go with you?" asked Ranma in concern.
	"Nah," said Ukyo shaking his oak brown head. "It took nearly 
fifteen minutes of Nabchan wheedling on my behalf to get the prune 
lady to let me off work early. You better stay here or she'll throw fits 
about both of Shampoo's Airens running out on their duties."
	"I guess," Ranma replied reluctantly. Snapping out of this 
momentary depression he questioned playfully, "So when are you 
leaving for Frankenkuno's lab?"
	Rolling sandalwood eyes Ukyo retorted, "Very funny 
Ranchan. And I'm leaving in a half an hour."
	"Great!" said Ranma as he grabbed his iinazuke's elbow and 
propelled him towards the takeout counter. "That gives you plenty of 
time to deliver this order of noodles and make it back before leaving 
for your appointment." Ukyo started to protest this when Ranma 
leaned in to whisper, "It'll be good for you to get out of this place for 
awhile Ucchan. Don't worry about it. We can hold down the fort."
	Eyeing Ranma carefully Ukyo nodded his head and said, 
"Thanks a lot Ranchan. I appreciate it."
	"No problem," replied Ranma with a grin as he handed Ukyo 
the takeout boxes. Turning away from him he shouted to Cologne, 
"Ucchan is doing the deliveries for me! I'll take care of her tables!"
	"Very well Son-in-law but make sure you are back within the 
hour with those boxes. And do not be late for your designated 
appointment," returned the voice of Cologne from the kitchen.
	"Which one of us do you think she was talking to?" puzzled 
Ukyo as he accepted address for the takeout order.
	Shrugging Ranma said, "Who knows?" Forming an eager 
smile he continued, "I've got an idea for tonight. If you don't get back 
too late want to go out to the movies? I was thinking we could take 
Shampoo together. You know... to thank her for all her help."
	Beaming Ukyo replied, "That's a great idea Ranchan. I think 
she'd really like that." His handsome features turned mischievous and 
he added, "But why don't we keep it a secret for now. It'd be more 
fun to surprise her."
	"You got it Ucchan," said Ranma happily as he gave a thumbs 
up signal. Touching the other boy gently on the back for a moment he 
gave his iinazuke a gentle shove. "I think you better get going if you 
want to deliver that food on time."
	Shooting Ranma final bright smile Ukyo squeezed the other 
boy's forearm then dashed out of the Nekohaten. "I'll see y'all later!" 
he called cheerfully to the general populous of the restaurant.
	And simultaneously, as if by magic, all the customers shouted 
in reply, "Bye Ucchan!"
	It was then that both Ranma and Shampoo glared at all of the 
customers they could get in their eyeline then shifted their attention to 
Nabiki. They knew those pamphlets would be nothing but trouble. 
The last thing they needed the added problem of more people falling 
for their mutual beloved.

	"Keiichi," began a brunette of breathtaking beauty to her wiry 
companion. "Who is that woman?"
	Lifting his spiky chocolate brown head Morisato Keiichi 
focused his soft brown eyes on the woman Belldandy was referring 
to. The woman had dark brown hair that barely went past her 
shoulders and her pretty features were drawn in obvious 
concentration as she sifted through the enormous pile of books that 
rested before her.
	"I dunno Bellchan," replied Keiichi in speculating tones. "But 
whoever she is she sure is dedicated. It looks like she has an entire 
shelf full of books in front of her."
	"Oh," said Belldandy in slight disappointment. "I was just 
wondering because... well..." the goddess trailed off as her face 
flushed in embarrassment.
	"She sort of looks like you Bell," Keiichi commented as he 
drew his attention away from his studying to concentrate fully on the 
woman. "Weird..."
	Smiling Belldandy replied happily, "That's just what I was 
thinking Keiichan. Perhaps she is--"
	"Tendo Kasumi," purred a low sensual voice. "And I should 
think you are quite right little sister."
	"What?" questioned Belldandy and Keiichi together as they 
lifted their gazes to focus on the lithe form of Urd.
	"Silly lovebirds," Urd drawled while placing her tanned hands 
on curvaceous hips. "I said her name is Tendo Kasumi. She's a first 
year medical student if I'm not mistaken. I'm surprised you haven't 
noticed her before Belldandy. She has caused quite a stir on campus 
for not only her uncanny resemblance to you but also her unattached 
romantic status. The last time I counted she had around a hundred and 
fifty men in love with her on the Nekomi Tech campus alone." Shifting 
sparkling green eyes to Belldandy she continued, "And I would most 
definitely agree that she is your mortal counterpart Bellchan. There is 
really no other logical explanation for the similarities."
	"She's what?" asked Keiichi suspiciously. "This isn't another 
one of your schemes is it Urd?"
	Smiling softy Belldandy touched Keiichi's arm and said, 
"There's no reason to worry Keiichan. It's really very simple. Tendo-
san must be my mortal counterpart. Every deity has a person on the 
mortal plane that is similar to them in looks and attitude. This is so that 
through them we may experience human emotions through them to 
better learn of the trials of mortality."
	"That makes sense... I guess," said Keiichi. "But why didn't 
you know she was yours Bell?"
	"Before you Belldandy has never been that interested in 
actively interfering in the lives of mortals," Urd interrupted in playful 
tones. "She has left Kasumi unattended for most of her life. Although I 
myself have found some amusement in following the odd patterns of 
her life."
	Frowning Keiichi replied, "Bellchan isn't interfering in my life 
Urd and you know it!"
	Quirking a white eyebrow Urd drawled, "My, my. So 
defensive. It seems he's becoming quite the manly protector I've 
always though you've deserved Bell."
	"Urd," sighed Belldandy in resigned tones. "Why are have you 
been following the life of my mortal counterpart? I thought you were 
quite pleased with your own counterpart's development."
	"Pff," dismissed Urd with a shrug. "Watching the life of a 
world famous model gets boring after awhile. All those people 
slobbering at your feet and offering themselves as concubines... I have 
that in my own life so why would I want to watch it in someone else's? 
Besides," Urd drawled. "I find the life of Kasumi so much more 
interesting. Take her current reason for studying so adeptly. She is 
doing research to help a close companion of hers to escape being 
trapped in the body of a man due to an unwelcome curse. A situation 
that oddly enough links back to the Amazons of Joketsuzoku."
	"Joketsuzoku?" breathed Belldandy in surprise. "Is that really 
true Urd?"
	"All of it," said Urd solemnly, a mood that was utterly 
shocking on the normally carefree deity. "I see you're finally beginning 
to understand what trouble is brewing little sister. Do you see why I 
have been observing her so closely now?"
	"Yes..." trailed off Belldandy in thoughtful tones. "I understand 
perfectly."
	"Well I don't," suddenly intervened Keiichi. "What in the 
world is going on now?"
	Turning to face her beloved Belldandy wore a worried 
expression as she said, "Oh Keiichi... I'm afraid something bad might 
be about to happen. The Amazons of Joketsuzoku are part of my 
select chosen. Their lives have been blessed by my ancient powers to 
be of influence in this world. If they have become involved in the life of 
my mortal counterpart it can only mean one thing."
	"What's that?" asked Keiichi, who was getting nervous at the 
serious mood of the two goddesses.
	"They are being drawn together by the Nexus of time," said 
Belldandy. "If all those blessed under my powers are being united with 
my mortal counterpart the lines of battle have been clearly drawn. 
Only," Belldandy paused to consider. "Who are they posed against?"
	"We will have to wait for that answer," replied Urd. "I have 
tried to summon an image of their opposition but nothing has been 
granted. They seem to be guarding the secrets of this event very 
closely." Shifting her attention to the still confused Keiichi she 
interpreted, "There is only one reason for the fates to gather the 
blessed of a goddess with her mortal counterpart. They are being set 
up for a spiritual battle against a foe which opposes what Belldandy 
and her blessed stand for. Whoever wins this battle will greatly alter 
the destiny of this world."
	"Okay..." said Keiichi who was finally beginning to 
comprehend what they were discussing. "But who are Bellchan's 
blessed fighting against?"
	"That," Urd pronounced. "Is what we are waiting to find out."

	Pulling open the elegantly crafted wooden doors to St. 
Hebereke Ukyo glanced around at his surroundings a released a low 
wolf whistle. "Take a gander at this," he murmured to himself. "If this 
place isn't fancy I don't know what is. The gym sure didn't look like 
this..."
	Tilting back his oak brown head Ukyo stared at the 
chandelier that hung over his head a bit nervously. Glancing around 
again he shrugged his shoulders before pulling out the business card 
Kodachi had given him and bounding up the stairs to search for the 
Chemistry lab.
	He reached the fifth floor and was contemplating asking the 
group of giggling girls who were looking his way for help when a 
familiar lilt called, "Kuonji. You certainly took your time in reaching 
my premises. I take it you found yourself imitating our friend Ryoga by 
wandering about dumbly lost as to your needed location?"
	Turning Ukyo was met with the haughty visage of Kuno 
Kodachi who had her elegant hands on her hips. "Yeah," Ukyo said 
tightly. "I guess you could say that." Averting his gaze from Kodachi 
as to help him lose the slowly rising anger in his system he saw that the 
group of girls were now staring at him with hearts in their eyes. Sighing 
he muttered, "Why me?"
	"We don't get great deal of handsome men in our company," 
said Kodachi, who was instantly at his side. Ukyo felt his pulse 
quicken when he felt her breath against his skin. "No doubt they are 
being swept away by your extraordinary beauty in this form. Although 
you are not a man of nature's arrangement it cannot be denied you are 
a figure of some magnificence." Violet eyes held a warmth that was 
unexpected and Kodachi offered Ukyo an understanding smile. 
Touching his cheek lightly with a manicured hand Kodachi continued, 
"I understand their desire for you. Perhaps if circumstances were 
altered we would not be so apt in our current emotional status 
regarding one another."
	"Kodachi..." said Ukyo befuddled as his sandalwood eyes 
widened. "I don't know what to say..."
	"Do not look at me that way Kuonji," said Kodachi in soft 
playful tones. "Rest assured I do not find myself falling for your ample 
charms. I am quite content in my affections involving my Sakura 
darling. This was said in comfort. I wish only to aid you in ridding 
yourself of this unfortunate state as do the others." Drawing away 
from the svelte boy Kodachi laughed a softer less intimidating version 
of her trademarked high toned laughter which often sounded of certain 
chilling insanity and said, "Although I do find you quite handsome."
	"Thank you sugar," replied Ukyo softly. He found this new 
laughter of hers oddly comforting. In this mood he allowed Kodachi 
to take his hand and lead him down the hallway like you would a lost 
child.
	And from down the hall the group of girls sighed in 
disappointment. It figures. The first good looking boy to visit their 
campus in months and he was with Kodachi. Some girls just had all 
the luck.

	"Is this the Nekohaten?" Ryoga asked himself as he tipped 
back his ruffled black head to stare at the restaurant in front of him. It 
had a pink tiled roof and was in western style design so he didn't think 
it was. Sighing he slumped his shoulders and said, "At least I can ask 
them where I am now and how to get back to Nerima."
	Just as the lost boy was reaching out a hand to open the front 
door to the restaurant an explosion sounded causing him to fly 
backwards and across the busy street. Coughing heavily from the 
surrounding smoke Ryoga slowly moved into a sitting position only to 
be promptly pushed back into the ground by a pair of feet stepping on 
his head.
	Moments later he heard a feminine voice say, "I'm so sorry! 
Did I hurt you?"
	Ryoga didn't have time to reply when another feminine voice, 
one more commanding in nature, interrupted him by saying, "We don't 
have time for this Kurumi. We're supposed to meet up with the 
Master in Nerima and we can't do that if we're in jail thanks to your 
food stealing."
	"How was I supposed to know they'd have such a nutty 
waitress?" retorted the original female voice. "And I think this boy 
might have accidentally absorbed some of the aftershock of our 
combined chi attack in there."
	Lifting his head Ryoga hazily took in the figures of two girls 
standing above him. The one who had just spoken was much smaller 
in height with a shock of thick chocolate brown hair that was spiky 
enough to remind him of Sakura except that she had a large red bow 
tying it back. Overall she gave the impression of being a school girl 
thanks to the red, white, and blue uniform she had on. Running the 
complete opposite of the spectrum was her companion. Svelte and 
leggy the other girl had oak brown hair similar to Ukyo's that was 
pulled back into a high ponytail. She wore a navy blue outfit that 
rather reminded Ryoga of the traditional Samurai clothes Nodoka 
sometimes wore. What resounded most in Ryoga's mind was the fact 
that they said they were going to Nerima. If that's where they were 
headed then he had to somehow convince them to take him along or 
else it could be days before he was able to see his precious Akane.
	Just as he was about to voice this plea a high pitched rather 
child-like voice shouted, "Nuku-Nuku won't let you steal food from 
Momma-san's restaurant! Bad customers! Very bad customers!"
	With wide dark brown eyes Ryoga observed as a pink haired 
waitress came barreling out of the smoking restaurant holding what 
looked to be a missile launcher. Frozen in fear he barely noticed as a 
strong wind swept him up into a funnel as he was transported away 
from the anarchy which always seemed to follow his training journeys. 
Tearing his eyes away from the oddity of the sudden wind funnel he 
noted that the two girls from before were inside it with him. The taller 
of the pair seemed to be maintaining the funnel with a large staff that 
appeared to be emitting a powerful battle aura as the girl spun it easily 
in her grasp. Suddenly the wind broke apart gently and he found 
himself lying face first in a wide open field. Lifting his gaze Ryoga saw 
the two girls were gazing at  him with some curiosity.
	Rubbing the back of his dark black head Ryoga offered a 
lame smile that revealed his fangs and said, "Did you ladies mention 
Nerima?"

	Closing the door to the Nekohaten with a sigh Perfume 
looked around the darkened restaurant. It was deserted with 
everyone having gone their separate ways after the work day had 
ended. A wave of loneliness hit her after having spent most of the day 
in a place filled with so many boisterous and, for the most part, happy 
people.
	She knew that Shampoo would be in her room lamenting over 
her Airens as usual. And that was the last thing Perfume wanted to 
discuss. Listening to her Cousin's theories on her Airens feelings for 
her was simply too tiring. There was always her Great Grandmother 
but she no longer knew what she could or couldn't tell the Matriarch 
of their tribe due to the current situation involving their Airens. Then 
there was Nabiki. Of course Perfume wanted to spend time with the 
elusive girl that had taken hold of her heart but it was just so hard to 
read her. After they had closed for the night Nabiki had disappeared 
with Cologne for a quiet discussion and then presumably left the 
premises.
	She should have known better than to get her hopes up. Just 
because Nabiki had shared something of herself with her didn't mean 
that she was willing to give a relationship a chance. Perhaps she was 
better off without love... Perfume couldn't bear even the thought of 
what happened to Lotion happening to Nabiki as well.
	Resigning herself to another night alone Perfume's nose 
twitched slightly at the light scent of wildflowers. A scent that she had 
distinctly known to belong to one singular person in Nerima. Lifting 
glowing sapphire eyes she took in the figure of Nabiki who was 
leaning against the door frame to the kitchen. The brunette wore a lazy 
smile while holding two small bowls of shaved ice in her hands.
	Pushing herself off the door frame Nabiki walked forward in 
an easy gait and proffered a bowl to Perfume while saying, "I'd say 
we deserve a treat after a long day of hard work. Wouldn't you?"
	Smiling softly Perfume accepted the bowl of shaved ice and 
replied, "Yes. We do."
	"All right then," drawled Nabiki as her hazel eyes twinkled. 
Taking Perfume by the hand she gently pulled the Amazon after her. 
Sliding into a booth she gestured for Perfume to join her, which the 
Amazon quickly did, then dug into her food saying, "I used to eat this 
all the time when I was a little kid. I used to sneak it late at night from 
the kitchen and then sell it to Ucchan and Ranma."
	"Even as small child you good with money?" asked Perfume 
curiously, as she took a bite of the treat.
	"Well I wouldn't say good with it," said Nabiki thoughtfully as 
she spun her spoon in a circular motion inside the bowl. "More like I 
had an interest for it. And that was mainly because I knew it could 
buy things that I did want. Like books..." Lifting her hazel gaze she 
questioned, "How about you? Did you always want to be the tribal 
Enforcer?"
	Perfume chuckled then said, "No. I had wanted to be a great 
warrior when I was very small but I never thought I could. I have..." 
she paused to consider. "A problem with pain. I no can take normal 
amount of pain that other warriors in tribe can. My Mother have same 
problem... she die in child birth with me. I never know what like to 
have true Mother only know Great Grandmother. She take me in 
even though I not of her family. She do so because I have no one else, 
my Father die long ago in duel of honor. Great Grandmother was all I 
know as little child and she make me feel not so bad about being 
weak girl who easily hurt. Great Grandmother train me from start. She 
work me very hard but I never was good enough. I tried and tried but 
I was no good..."
	Perfume trailed off morosely. Feeling a soft touch at her hand 
she lifted her gaze and saw Nabiki observing her with concern. 
Smiling at this Perfume squeezed Nabiki's hand then said, "I feel bad 
for my lack of skill so I trained harder to please Great Grandmother. I 
hide my problem with pain from all in tribe and I make slow 
improvements. Then one day I have accident thanks to stupid boy 
named Mousse. He fall in river and I save him but all in tribe find out I 
weak girl who no can take pain. What little friends I have I lose and 
have nothing left but Great Grandmother. Then shortly after she take 
in Shampoo to train as future Matriarch as I meant to be Enforcer. 
Even though I have honor of being training partner to our future leader 
it take many years before others in tribe respect me because of 
weakness."
	"I'd say all those people were idiots Perfume," said Nabiki 
softly. Lifting up her spoon she pointed it at the other girl and said, 
"You ought to have more confidence in yourself. 'Weak girl' my butt! 
When I first saw you chasing after Ucchan in our yard with those axes 
I nearly wet myself." Smiling Nabiki paused to take a bite of her 
desert. "You were like watching a force of nature."
	"Thank you," replied Perfume quietly as she felt a blush tinge 
her cheeks. "I work very hard to master steel storm technique. That 
what you see me use chasing after Ukyo that day. I maybe should 
have not used such powerful technique but I was very angry at hearing 
Shampoo's Airens had deserted her. I wanted to get justice for her as 
is job of tribal Enforcer, to be hand of justice for tribe. But anger 
clouded my senses and I no hear you approach. It surprises me still 
that you able to sneak up on me Nabiki. Maybe I was too focused on 
Ukyo and the fight due to my anger. For many years Shampoo was 
my only friend in tribe."
	"How come?" questioned Nabiki. "It wasn't just because of 
your problem with pain, was it? Because if that's the reason they 
didn't like you... well. They're a bunch of imbeciles. Complete and 
total morons, you get me?"
	"I get you," replied Perfume, smiling as she took in fierce hazel 
eyes. "But that no only reason. It have to do with me being weak. Yes 
I was afraid to get too close to any in tribe for fear they would find out 
I was weak girl. Then when they did... I no have anyone but Great 
Grandmother. And I no feel comfortable talking to her about certain 
things. I had no friends my own age. Well, there was stupid boy 
Mousse. He think he in love with me, but he not know me at all. He 
loves what he imagines to me be me, not what I really am. So before 
Shampoo... there was no one I really be close to and tell everything 
to. "
	Pausing Perfume's sapphire eyes clouded over as she 
continued, "Many years after Great Grandmother take Shampoo in 
we meet girl who remind me of myself. Her name was Lotion. She 
was very gentle, no wanted to be a warrior even though her Mother 
push her to be one. She push... too hard. Much too hard. Was very 
mean to Lotion and beat her. I stopped her from doing so. Was first 
act as tribal Enforcer. Lotion... was grateful. We became very close... 
she was my first love," Perfume barely managed to choke out as she 
felt tears begin to fill her eyes. Embarrassed for revealing too much in 
front of her Airen she stumbled out of the booth and away from 
Nabiki.
	Following after the other girl Nabiki found Perfume huddled in 
a corner, with her hand grasping at the surface of the wall. Touching 
the Amazon Enforcer's shoulders gently Nabiki spun the other girl 
around. Dipping her head low so she could gaze up into tear filled 
sapphire eyes Nabiki said softly, "Please tell me what's the matter."
	Releasing a choked sob Perfume shook her chestnut colored 
head obstinately, silently refusing to answer, and Nabiki sighed at this 
gesture. Taking a solid step forward she gathered the Amazon in a 
loving embrace. Tenderly pushing Perfume's head to rest against her 
neck Nabiki ran her fingers through the long silky strands of hair and 
said, "Okay. You don't have to tell me about it now Perfume, but if 
you ever want to... know that I'll be here. You listened to me and it's 
only right that I return the favor. I can tell you right now it helps, 
having someone to talk to. It helps a lot more than I ever thought it 
would, having you for my personal Bobo."
	There was a long pause as the impact of these words sunk in. 
Nabiki simply remained locked in her embrace with Perfume, rocking 
the Amazon to and fro as her sobs slowly began to quiet down.
	"Lotion..." said Perfume in ragged tones that was laced with 
tears. "Lotion is dead. She died because of me... I make many 
enemies after becoming Enforcer. Those who I bring justice too, they 
not always take it well. To deal with me means often great dishonor in 
tribe. And... some of these I bring to justice they took out anger on 
Lotion..." Perfume broke off as a fresh wave of tears hit her.
	Holding the shaking girl against her body Nabiki slowly slid to 
the floor of the restaurant and allowed Perfume to curl up in her lap. 
Leaning down Nabiki wrapped her arms around Perfume's waist 
while resting their cheeks against one another. In calm, soothing, tones 
she said, "It isn't your fault. That was a long time ago... let it go. You 
aren't responsible for the acts of a few sick people. There was no way 
you could've known..."
	Not responding Perfume simply clung to Nabiki while 
releasing the deep sorrows of the past she had long hidden inside of 
herself. And from the darkened doorway to the kitchen the form of 
Cologne observed this and said, "And the bonds are set."

	Tucking the pillow underneath her chin Shampoo let a quiet 
sigh pass her lips as she thought about the day's events. They hadn't 
been able to get the Phoenix pill away from Great Grandmother but 
they had come close many times. She was especially impressed with 
speed of both her Airens attacks and knew their skill levels would 
only increase once she had effectively taught them the Amaguriken.
	Suddenly a persistent tapping at the window caused her to 
jump slightly. Kneeling on the bed Shampoo squinted her scarlet eyes 
at the darkening sky outside the window. She could barely make out 
a shadowy figure nearby.
	Walking across the room she narrowed her eyes before 
smoothly pushing up the window frame. As she did so she said in 
harsh warning tones, "I warn you... no want to underestimate womans 
from Amazon tribe."
	Upon opening the window Shampoo was met with the 
grinning face of Ukyo who was hanging upside down. "I'll tell you one 
thing sugar," he declared. "I'm the last person who'd underestimate 
anybody of your fighting caliber."
	"Ukyo!" exclaimed Shampoo happily. "What you do here? 
Shampoo thought you have appointment with crazy black rose girl."
	"I did," replied Ukyo easily as he swung back and forth from 
the edge of the roof he was hanging off of. "But now I'm all done. 
Ranchan and I were wondering if you might be interested in seeing a 
movie with us tonight. Our treat and your choice. What do you say 
Shamchan? You up for it?"
	Beaming Shampoo replied immediately, "Of course! I be right 
down! Airens don't go anywhere!"
	"You're the boss," said Ukyo as he saluted the Amazon 
before dropping from his upside down position to flip in the air and 
land next to Ranma on the street below.
	Shampoo watched this descent for a moment before quickly 
picking out an outfit to wear. Pausing in front of the closet to look at 
her clothes Shampoo repeated Ukyo's words in quiet pleasure, 
"Shamchan..."
	Shaking her lavender head out of her dazed state she quickly 
replaced her pajamas with the chosen outfit at rapid speeds. This was 
the stuff of her dreams. What she had been waiting for all these 
weeks... her Airens wanted to spend time with her. And if Shampoo 
had anything to do with it this would be one the best nights of their 
lives.

	"Show off," teased Ranma as he poked Ukyo in the ribs after 
the other boy finished his extravagant landing.
	Chuckling Ukyo raised an eyebrow rakishly and said, "I've 
got to impress our date somehow, don't I?"
	"Ooooh," said Ranma in an overdone voice of understanding. 
"Does that mean I should start doing back flips off of rooftops too?"
	"If you think you can handle it," drawled Ukyo.
	"I'll show you handling," smirked Ranma. "Once we get you 
that Phoenix pill."
	"Promises, promises," said Ukyo in sing-song tones.
	Just then Ukyo tipped his head backwards to observe 
Shampoo as she descended from her open window to land in front of 
them on the street below. She stood in front of them in a rather dainty 
manner with her hands clasped behind her back before suddenly 
bounding forward to embrace them both in a great bear hug while 
crying, "Airens! Shampoo so happy you invite her!"
	"We're happy too," squeaked Ranma. "When we can breathe 
that is."
	Pulling away instantly Shampoo flushed slightly and touched 
Ranma's side gently saying, "Sh...I sorry Ranma. Not mean to do that. 
I just so excited..."
	"Hey, it's no problem," said Ranma easily as he drew a strong 
arm around her shoulders. "You just don't know your own strength, 
that's all. Ucchan told me how you beat all those other girls during that 
Amazon tournament of yours easy. You're the best fighter in your 
tribe, right?"
	Snuggling close to Ranma the Amazon shifted her scarlet eyes 
to the figure of Ukyo who wore a lopsided grin while offering her his 
hand. Grabbing it decisively she tugged the okonomiyaki chef closer 
to them then said, "Yes. I was tribal Champion. Beat all other 
warriors during day of annual fighting tournament... all but Ukyo of 
course."
	"Well y'know I didn't fight fair," drawled Ukyo. "You were 
tired out from fighting all day and I was still pretty fresh on my feet 
from having just rested. It wasn't exactly a match of equal odds. I 
dunno if I would've won if you were at your best Shamchan."
	"Ditto here," put in Ranma with a smirk. "I got in a lucky kick 
that knocked you out with your own weapon. I'd say both losses 
were pretty strange."
	"I no mind," said Shampoo adamantly. "By laws of 
Joketsuzoku both you honorably defeat Shampoo in battle. It good 
law, guarantee that warriors have strong Airens. And it work because 
Shampoo now has Airens who is very strong in mind, body, and 
spirit."
	"Well if you look at it that way it works," said Ukyo 
thoughtfully. "But what if you get beaten by someone who turns out to 
be a total idiot? Then what do you do?"
	Raising a lavender eyebrow Shampoo shot Ukyo a 
mischievous smile and said, "We give kiss of death."
	Coughing Ranma said quickly, "I guess we should consider 
ourselves lucky then. Right Ucchan?"
	"Oh yeah," agreed Ukyo with an aggressive nod of his head. 
"Very lucky. I definitely like the kiss of life better than the kiss of 
death. I speak from experience."
	Shaking her head Shampoo clasped both of the boys hands in 
her own while saying, "You both very silly Airens. What movie you 
want to see tonight?"
	"Your choice Shamchan," said Ranma with a wide grin as they 
stopped in front of the movie theater that was only a few blocks away 
from the Nekohaten. Gesturing towards the listing of movies at the 
box office he said, "Take a look then pick whatever you'd like to see 
the most."
	Nodding her head Shampoo beamed at both of her Airens 
before bounding toward the box office to scan the list of movies 
playing that night.
	Watching this action in certain contentment Ukyo turned his 
attention to Ranma and said, "You were right on the money this time 
Ranchan. This was a great idea."
	"Glad you agree Ucchan," replied Ranma. Moving closer to 
his iinazuke he whispered, "But how much you want to bet she picks 
some gaijin romance movie?"
	Groaning Ukyo said lowly, "I was just thinking the same thing. 
Too bad because I was looking forward to seeing that new Kung-Fu 
movie..."
	"Theater of Death?" Ranma suggested to Ukyo who nodded 
in concession. "Yeah me too. It's supposedly being shown in some 
sort of special viewing here."
	"Splattervision," supplied Ukyo. "But we can always hold off 
on seeing Theater of Death until later. I bet that special addition they 
have here isn't even all that cool."
	"Yeah," conceded Ranma. "It can't be all that great because I 
was talking to Hiroshi and he said that half the people left the theater 
when he went to see it."
	"He told me they had to leave because the special screening in 
splattervision showed the fight scenes in such great detail that they all 
got sick," commented Ukyo with a raised eyebrow.
	"Well yeah..." Ranma said sheepishly as he scratched his 
cheek. "But I was trying to make us feel better about missing their last 
screening in splattervision. Besides," he continued brightly. "I bet there 
are some good gaijin romance movies. They all can't be as bad as the 
one Akane made us go see that one time."
	Ukyo made a disgusted face then muttered, "The stupid 
sinking boat movie. You knew what was going to happen so why 
even see it? And the length! I thought it would never end. What were 
those Americans thinking?"
	"Got me," replied Ranma with a grimace. "Maybe they were 
trying to find a new way to put us to sleep?"
	Just then the object which began their conversation bounded 
back to them wearing a wide grin. "Shampoo know what movie she 
want to see Airens!" Shampoo happily pointed towards the marquee 
then pronounced, "Theater of Death! They have special screening in 
splattervision. Boy in box office say best Kung-Fu movie come out in 
many years. Very graphic and no spare any expense in fight scenes. 
Sound good, yes?"
	Blinking Ukyo and Ranma stared dumbly at Shampoo for a 
long moment before Ukyo said slowly, "It sure does sugar... but this 
was supposed to be your night. We wanted you to pick whatever 
movie you wanted to see most. You don't have to see this because 
we want to."
	Sniffing Shampoo put her hands on her hips and declared, 
"Shampoo may have heard her Airens complaining about her picking 
stupid gaijin movie like Akane but that not reason for me wanting to 
see Theater of Death. Ever since Sh...I was little I like Kung-Fu 
movies. Father was from city before he marry Mother and join tribe. 
He once bring me into city for trip and there I see first movie... Enter 
the Dragon. Ever since Shampoo like Kung-Fu movies and this what I 
want to see." Raising an eyebrow Shampoo questioned forcefully, 
"Airens have problem with that?"
	Gaping at their Amazon companion both Ukyo and Ranma 
replied obediently, "No ma'am!"
	Beaming widely Shampoo placed herself between the two 
boys then hooked her arms in theirs and said, "Then we going to see 
Theater of Death, yes? I hear that girl who play sister to Fei Long is 
good fighter. Kickboxing champion of some sort."
	"Arigami Keiko," supplied Ranma eagerly as they walked 
towards box office with Ukyo in the lead, already pulling out his wallet 
to pay for the tickets. "I heard the same thing Shamchan. The critics 
said she has some of the most powerful kicks they've ever seen. I 
think the best part is that she's our age. Pretty cool, huh?"
	"I hear she kick down entire brick wall one try," Shampoo 
informed. "Sound impressive but I seen better tricks. Perfume once 
destroy almost half the forest in what I think was only a few minutes 
but she very angry at time. Focused on task at hand. No one try to 
stop her."
	"Half the forest?" questioned Ranma incredulously. "What'd 
they do to make her that mad?"
	Forming a serious expression Shampoo averted her gaze and 
said, "No can say right now. Not sure it all right with Cousin. Promise 
to tell later, when know if okay."
	Studying this reaction with some concern Ranma squeezed 
Shampoo's hand in support then said, "Sure. I understand 
completely... sometimes there are things that we share with others that 
are just too powerful to talk about. It doesn't mean a breach of trust 
between us, rather it shows the strength of your loyalty to Perfume."
	"Ranma..." breathed Shampoo lovingly as she lifted scarlet 
eyes to meet shining cobalt ones.
	Losing himself in her gaze Ranma dipped his head for a tender 
kiss that sent warm waves of pleasure through them. Pulling his lips 
away slowly he smiled at the soft sigh that escaped Shampoo's lips. 
An abrupt cough met their attention and they turned their heads to see 
Ukyo looking at them with a smirk on his handsome features.
	"I hated to interrupt but the movie is about to start," he 
drawled while holding up their three tickets. "What do you say we 
head inside? Unless you two want to stay out here and do some more 
necking in public," Ukyo said dryly.
	Narrowing her scarlet eyes in observation Shampoo strode 
towards the okonomiyaki chef and pulled him in for a suddenly 
passionate embrace. When the kiss ended she favored him with a 
small smile then said, "No be jealous Ukyo. I love you both. And am 
sure that Ranma and you be ones doing necking in public soon."
	"You can count on that," said Ranma gently.
	Reaching out Ranma took Ukyo's hand in his own as 
Shampoo moved out of her embrace with him. Moving his gaze from 
Ranma to Shampoo the okonomiyaki chef swallowed the emotion 
welling up in his throat at such an open display of affection for him. 
Wearing a shaky smile he said roughly, "I think we've caused a big 
enough scene for the night. Why don't we go inside and see some 
Theater of Death in extra-gory special addition splattervision?"
	Grinning widely Shampoo clutched Ukyo's arm while 
grabbing Ranma with her other and proclaimed, "I think that very 
good idea Ucchan. And you Ranchan?"
	Enjoying how their childhood nicknames sounded while being 
pronounced in Shampoo's melodic voice Ranma replied, "I think that's 
the best idea I've heard in a long time Shamchan. What do you say to 
that Ucchan?"
	Rolling his sandalwood eyes as they made their way into the 
lobby Ukyo drawled, "I think that I've gotten myself engaged to a pair 
of weirdoes Ranchan."
	And as they walked into the already darkening theater those 
passing by could make out the playfully indignant cries of Ranma and 
Shampoo saying, "WHO'S a weirdo?"

	"We are students of the great Master," said the solemn faced 
girl whose name was Natsume to her newly joined traveling 
companion Hibiki Ryoga.
	The three martial artists were trudging along in the early 
morning light through certain unknown wilderness headed in the 
general direction of Nerima. For several uncomfortable hours they 
had attempted sustaining idle conversation but they had since settled 
into the more significant stories of their lives. Being a little nervous 
about revealing certain facts about his person, particularly his 
Jusenkyo curse, Ryoga allowed the two girls to go first. 
	"Happosai of the Anything Goes school of martial arts," the 
petite girl called Kurumi finished in bright tones.
	"He has trained us since our childhood," informed Natsume as 
she adjusted her grip on the large staff she carried. "It is our goal to be 
the best in the area of women's Anything Goes martial arts. My sister 
and I hold the secrets to some of his most powerful techniques. 
Several days ago he disappeared from our camp leaving only a letter."
	"In it he told us he had some business to take care of and we 
were to meet him in Nerima," supplied Kurumi with a smile. "And 
that's where we're headed."
	Blinking at the oddity of the girls successfully completing each 
others sentences Ryoga finally accessed some of what they said and 
slowly questioned, "Sister? Then you both are related?" Looking from 
the svelte Natsume who continued to wear a grave expression to the 
petite Kurumi who had a wide smile on her features Ryoga murmured, 
"You sure don't look like sisters..."
	"We are twins," said Natsume coolly.
	"Not identical of course," Kurumi put in cheerfully.
	Scratching the back of his dark head Ryoga returned 
Kurumi's smile and said, "Wow. I would have never guessed it." 
Squinting he looked at Kurumi closely then said, "If you both are 
twins then you're the same age..."
	While shading her tawny eyes as to better look into the 
distance Natsume stated plainly, "We are approximately nineteen 
years of age."
	"Nineteen?" echoed Ryoga in disbelief as he kept his gazed 
locked on Kurumi. "But..."
	"I know," said Kurumi indulgently, as she smiled. "I don't look 
that old. Everyone tells me that I still look like a little girl. It's a curse I 
guess."
	Flinching at the word curse Ryoga averted his dark brown 
gaze from Kurumi's as another piece of information resounded in his 
mind and he focused back on the twins to ask, "You were trained by 
Master Happosai of the Anything Goes school of martial arts?"
	"Yes," said Natsume with a nod. "We were raised in a small 
orphanage in an isolated country village but the Master would visit us 
almost every month to test our skills in the martial arts. He is the only 
parental figure we have ever known and we are his loyal disciples."
	"But why do you ask?" questioned Kurumi while looking at 
Ryoga curiously with sea green eyes.
	Baffled at this turn of events Ryoga asked, "Do either of you 
know Kuonji Ukyo by any chance?"
	First meeting each others gazes the twins then turned their 
eyes to Ryoga and the lost boy was stunned to see that the expected 
coldness he had observed in Natsume's eyes had been replaced with 
an affectionate softness.
	"Of course we know little Ukyo," said Natsume in fond tones.
	"She's our sister," added Kurumi happily.
	Frozen in place Ryoga stared at them with wide eyes as he 
repeated blankly, "Sister?"

	Walking past the Tendo dojo several visiting students noted 
the clouds of smoke coming from behind the high wall guarding the 
premises and wondered what was going on behind those secure 
barriers. Shrugging this curiosity off they shifted into a more brisk 
walking pace as they continued on their way to the world famous 
Nekohaten restaurant. It was the day their favorite waitress was 
scheduled to work and they didn't dare miss a minute of her usual 
hysterics. They were sure today they would finally figure out just 
where she managed to hide those mallets.
	"It's useless," said Ukyo warily as he allowed Kasumi to wrap 
yet another bandage around his burnt hands. Two days had past since 
they had taken Shampoo to the movies and in those two days Ukyo 
had attempted to master the Amaguriken well over a hundred times 
and each time he failed. It was beginning to wear at his confidence, 
especially since Ranma had already mastered the technique and 
seemed to be massively excelling in his levels of speed. "I can't stand 
the heat of the fire long enough to snatch the chestnuts out of it so 
there's no way I can master this."
	Dumping another round of chestnuts into the fire Ranma 
suggested, "Maybe if you worked with something cold instead of hot? 
How about that Ucchan?"
	"Is good idea Ranchan," said Shampoo as she flashed a 
beaming smile at Ranma. "Ucchan no can stand heat while under full 
body Cat-Tongue so we change rules. I can try to teach Amaguriken 
in different way..." Trailing off Shampoo murmured thoughtfully, "Only 
have one question. What we use instead of chestnuts in open fire?"
	"Perhaps you might try using water," said Kasumi as she tied 
off the newly placed gauze on Ukyo's palm. "If you replaced the fire 
with cold water the Cat-Tongue would become a moot issue. The real 
problem is what to use in replacement of the roasting chestnuts in the 
new element of cold water. There are not many things that would 
challenge Ukyo to increase her already impressive speed."
	Sighing Ukyo diverted his sandalwood gaze from his iinazuke, 
who was successfully completing the technique that he wanted to 
master himself, to the quickly circling forms of the carp swimming in 
their koi pond. A spark of realization flared in his eyes and forming an 
ecstatic grin on his features Ukyo exclaimed, "That's it! We can use 
fish instead!" Turning to the others he continued, "Do you know how 
hard it is to try and catch a fish with your bare hands? That's got to be 
the answer! There's no way I wouldn't increase my speed if I 
managed to do that!"
	Whooping loudly Ukyo suddenly leapt to his feet and 
bounded over the high wall to the dojo. "I'm going to the pet store 
right now to buy a tank and some fish!" he shouted hastily over his 
shoulder. "Wait till that old ghoul gets a load of this... she's gonna pay 
big time!"
	Shampoo watched this exuberant departure before turning her 
attention to Ranma who was carefully setting aside the roasted 
chestnuts he had recently snatched from burning recesses of the fire. "I 
hope Airen not getting hopes up too soon," she said as her scarlet 
eyes flashed with concern. "It never been tried, mastering the 
Amaguriken under different ways. Shampoo no know if it even 
possible but she hope so for Ucchan's sake..."
	"If anyone can do it Ucchan can," said Ranma confidently as 
he raised his gaze to meet Shampoo's. "Don't worry about it for now 
Shamchan. If that idea doesn't work we'll can always come up with 
another. We can't give up now... not when we've come so far and 
tried so hard. It wouldn't be fair to Ukyo or us."
	"Ranma is right," Kasumi said softly as she rested her kind 
eyes on the lavender haired Amazon. "Have faith and it will all work 
itself out in the end. You will see."
	After saying this Kasumi rose elegantly to her feet and 
smoothed out the wrinkled planes of her dress then made her way 
gracefully inside of the dojo while effectively leaving Ranma and 
Shampoo alone.
	"I sorry Ranma," said Shampoo apologetically. "I no mean to 
sound like I no have faith in Airen Ukyo. It just that I cannot help 
worrying about her... Great Grandmother, she no person you want 
underestimate and I think maybe she have bigger plan in mind than 
even Shampoo can understand. And that can be trouble since I been 
around Great Grandmother almost whole life, nearly as long as 
Perfume."
	"It's okay," assured Ranma as he placed a gentle hand on top 
of Shampoo's. "I know you were only concerned about Ucchan's 
welfare. I can't tell you how much you've helped us. Without you... 
well. I don't know how we'd be handling this whole situation. And if 
Ucchan was here she'd tell you the same thing."
	Pausing Ranma wore a thoughtful expression as he appeared 
to be considering something. Lifting his cobalt eyes he bore his steady 
gaze into Shampoo and said, "We both care a lot about you..." 
Trailing off Ranma amended this statement and said, "I care a lot 
about you. And I know for a fact that Ucchan does too."
	"Ranma," said Shampoo quietly. Scooting closer to the 
dashing pigtailed boy she gave him a smile. "You always so nice to 
Shampoo... I too care lot about you. I love you both. I has never 
been treated this good by anyone as am treated by you and Ucchan. I 
never been so happy as I am when with Airens."
	"You know what Shampoo?" asked Ranma, a wide grin 
spreading across his handsome features. "I feel the exact same way. 
Ever since Ucchan came into my life I've never been happier. And 
without Ucchan...." Ranma trailed off shyly then mumbled something 
unintelligibly as a hot flush covered his face as he twiddled his fingers.
	Blinking Shampoo tilted her lavender head to one side and 
said mischievously, "What Ranchan just say? I no could hear that 
well."
	Now turning the shade of a ripe tomato Ranma hesitantly 
lifted his cobalt gaze then coughed loudly before saying, "I said that 
I'm happy that I met you Shamchan. I've never been this happy 
before... and it because of you and Ucchan. I never thought in a 
million years I'd have two such great girls caring for me and well..." 
Averting his eyes from Shampoo's he said rapidly, "Iloveyoutoo."
	A long pause of seemingly unending silence passed between 
the two and finally an ecstatic smile of pure joy came over Shampoo's 
lovely features and the lavender haired Amazon exclaimed happily, 
"Woda Airen!" She then launched herself at the pigtailed boy for a 
tight embrace.
	"Whoah," came the muffled reply of Ranma as Shampoo 
buried herself in his arms. Getting over the momentary surprise of this 
tight hold he smiled softly at the sight of the top of her lavender head 
snuggled against his broad chest. Lifting a hand Ranma tenderly ran 
his fingers through her silky locks and said, "Woda right back at you 
Shamchan." Chuckling he continued, "Mind telling me exactly what 
that means anyway?"
	Pulling only a millimeter away from him, just enough so she 
could look up into his face, Shampoo replied, "It mean 'beloved 
partner' in my language. And that what you is to Shampoo. You is my 
beloved partner in life. You and Ukyo. I know what my destiny is... 
have known ever since very small and I know is destiny to be with 
you both. Always."
	"Beloved partner," Ranma repeated, trying the words out for 
himself. Beaming he said, "I like the sound of that Shamchan. I like the 
sound of that a lot." His cobalt eyes crinkling up Ranma cupped the 
edges of Shampoo's face in his gentle hands and lowering his head he 
met their lips for what many would call a perfect kiss.
	From the edge of the verandah Kasumi observed this action 
with a soft smile as she said, "Those two are such good friends."

	Ignoring the gaping stares of what had to be the mile long line 
of students waiting to get inside of the Nekohaten Ukyo balanced a 
huge tank filled to the rim with water and several hundred goldfish on 
his head. Pausing in his easy gait on the tall wire fence across from the 
restaurant Ukyo listened to harried sounds of shouting from inside of 
the premises. Ukyo shoved his hands inside the pockets to his black 
Chinese style silk pants and muttered, "I shouldn't even bother... but 
what if those jackasses got themselves into more trouble with another 
visiting gang of martial artists?"
	Removing his hands from the pockets of his pants Ukyo 
gripped the edges of the tank and hopped from the fence to stride up 
the open doors of the restaurant. As he approached the entrance an 
irate looking girl with long raven hair and flashing red-violet eyes, a 
color which reminded him eerily of Kodachi, immediately began 
yelling at him about butting in line. Groaning at this Ukyo was about to 
explain that he worked here when one of her companions, a pretty girl 
with long blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes, pushed her out of the 
way.
	The blonde gave Ukyo a spectacularly charming smile as she 
said, "Ignore Rei. She's never been here before and is kind of 
annoyed at the line to get in being so long. And she doesn't know that 
you're on the staff. My name's Minako, Ukyo-sama. Do you 
remember me? I was here yesterday with my friend Usagi..."
	Peering at Minako thoughtfully Ukyo said, "Sure I remember 
you sugar. You had the five blend ramen special right? And your 
friend, Usagi? She ordered ten of the same. I couldn't forget that... 
had me on my toes all afternoon. And she had Akane washing up a 
storm of dishes in the back."
	"That's us!" exclaimed Minako happily and Ukyo nervously 
noted the distinctively heart looking shapes that were forming in her 
blue eyes.
	"Err..." Ukyo said warily as he put a little more distance 
between them. He had enough troubles without another girl chasing 
after him. Shifting his sandalwood eyes they rested on the form of the 
petite blue haired girl that he figured to be one of Minako's friends. 
"Excuse me Miss," he said politely. "Do you know what's going on in 
there? I don't want to go inside until I know for sure that it's safe."
	As the last statement was made Ukyo glanced around to 
search for feasible enemies. You could never be too careful. 
Especially when you had as many opponents as he seemed to collect. 
And there was the added fact that he wasn't about to take this 
expensive tank full of fish into the restaurant until he knew for sure he 
wouldn't be attacked. 
	"I'm not positive," said the blue haired girl. "But I do believe 
that I heard something being said about ecchi pictures and someone's 
Airen being insulted."
	"Don't forget about this Ami," commented the statuesque 
brunette standing next to her. She pulled the form of a crumpled 
pamphlet out of the pocket of her jeans. "They threw a couple 
hundred of these out the front door."
	Shifting the weight on his heels so the tank would retain its 
perfect balance on his head Ukyo accepted the pamphlet from the tall 
girl with a high ponytail. Ukyo paused to study it for a moment then 
laughed nervously. It was part of the new batch of pamphlets that 
Ranma had taken the responsibility of printing up and included it the 
slight revenge the dojo gang had decided to pull on Nabiki.
	Being somewhat annoyed at all the risque pictures Nabiki had 
taken of them, and the mysterious lack thereof for the middle Tendo 
sister, they had banded together to take a series of equally risque 
pictures of Nabiki to even the odds. Once they had acquired these 
pictures they immediately put in the new pamphlets they were printing 
up. Of course, they had to keep this operation totally secret from not 
only Nabiki but Perfume as well. Everyone had noticed as of late that 
the Amazon Enforcer tended to be a tad on the over protective side in 
regards to the status of her Airen.
	"Can I keep this...?" Ukyo asked nervously as he trailed off 
not knowing the tall brunette's name.
	"Makoto," the brunette supplied with an easy smile. "And help 
yourself. It's all yours."
	Releasing a sigh of relief Ukyo said, "Thanks. The last thing I 
need is for Nabchan to catch more people with their hands on these 
things. Maybe this wasn't the best idea for a joke after all. I better try 
to get the rest of them back..."
	Ukyo averted his gaze to begin scanning the area for possible 
places where the pamphlets could have flown. Lost in this task he 
barely noticed a curious voice sound it's presence.
	"Kuonji-san?" the voice asked and shifting his attention Ukyo 
saw that the question had come from the blue haired girl named Ami. 
Flushing slightly she continued, "Would it be all right if I asked you a 
question?"
	Swallowing the massive lump forming in his throat Ukyo 
answered weakly, "Go ahead. Shoot." Please, please, please, please, 
don't let her ask if I've got a girlfriend, he begged silently to the Kami.
	"Are the Amazon women working here from the village of 
Joketsuzoku in China?" questioned Ami, an intelligent gleam 
resounding in her deep blue eyes.
	Blinking with surprise Ukyo said, "Yeah. They are. Can I ask 
how you knew that sugar?"
	"The usage of the word 'Airen'," supplied Ami helpfully. "It is 
rarely utilized in Mandarin except for within the small tribes of 
remaining Amazons. Most of which have been completely eradicated 
due to poor leadership. The only thriving exception is the village of 
Joketsuzoku. Over the summer I read a very interesting book detailing 
their history. It was written by a man who resides near the village and 
works as a tour guide."
	"Tour guide?" repeated Ukyo dumbly. A queasy feeling began 
to seize his stomach he said, "No way..."
	Before Ukyo could say anything more on the matter the figure 
of Sakura came dashing out of the restaurant with Kodachi quick at 
her heels. Both girls looked fairly panicked and upon seeing Ukyo the 
street fighter exclaimed, "Run for the hills Ucchan! Perfume has 
flipped her lid and Nabiki isn't doing any better!"
	"I told you such a lewd form of humorous sport would not be 
taken well by the Tendo girl my darling," said Kodachi in almost 
reprimanding tones. "Best that we depart before we face the further 
wrath of her incantations and attempts at ceasing our existence."
	"She's that bad?" asked Ukyo incredulously. He had never 
seen Nabiki angry so he didn't know quite what to expect. He always 
thought she had a rather good sense of humor when she wanted.
	"Worse!" shouted Sakura as she grabbed Kodachi by the 
wrist and disappeared in a cloud of dust. As they merged with the 
setting sun Ukyo heard Kodachi call, "She matches Akane in strength 
of ire! Disperse Kuonji while you may or doom shall fall upon you!"
	His mouth dropping open at this statement Ukyo formed a 
face of utter fear then turned back to the girls he had been conversing 
with. "I gotta go," he said quickly. "But it was nice meeting y'all. If 
you're ever in town again, and I'm still around, look me up and a free 
lunch is all yours. I cook a great okonomiyaki."
	After saying this Ukyo swiftly grabbed hold of the edges of 
the tank on his head and moved into position to start a swift run. 
Unfortunately for him, while his feet were moving, they were failing to 
take him anywhere. Noticing this oddity after a moment Ukyo paused 
in his frantic attempt at running and looked backwards into the 
glowering face of Tendo Nabiki.
	And much to Ukyo's dismay Kodachi was right. She did look 
scarier than Akane.
	"Hey Nabchan..." began Ukyo anxiously.
	Releasing her grip on the back of Ukyo's orange Chinese style 
silk shirt Nabiki retorted, "Don't you Nabchan me Kuonji Ukyo." 
Snapping a pamphlet in her hold as one would a knife Nabiki then 
narrowed hazel eyes and said coolly, "Would care explaining this to 
me? I wasn't able to get the best answers out of Sakura and Kodachi 
as they were occupied with fleeing for their lives."
	Lifting up a hand to steady the fish tank still sitting on his head 
Ukyo offered lamely, "It was a joke?"
	"A joke?" hissed Nabiki. "Do you kno--" The brunette 
abruptly stopped her line of speech and shifted her sharp gaze from 
side to side. Ducking her gaze she said lowly, "Someone is watching 
us. I'll call a truce for now Ucchan but I'm definitely demanding some 
answers later. And maybe a little payback to top it off."
	Wincing at this last statement Ukyo noted with some degree 
of happiness that Nabiki had returned to calling him Ucchan instead of 
his full name. Somehow it sounded harsh when she said it and in a 
way it reminded Ukyo of his Father who had always called him by his 
full name whenever he had gotten into trouble. Which was what Ukyo 
was sure he was in with regards to Nabiki right now. Shifting his 
sandalwood gaze Ukyo eyed their surroundings carefully. "Where are 
they?" he asked in a hushed whisper.
	Before Nabiki could have a chance to reply the angry shouts 
of Akane met their ears and the petite dark haired girl came barreling 
out of the restaurant with a delivery box in hand. Seconds later the 
figure of Perfume holding her broad axes came following after Akane.
	"Stupid Amazon!" shouted Akane, her nostrils flaring slightly 
as she heaved deep breaths. She had no idea what was going on, only 
that she was plenty angry. Akane had just shortly arrived back at the 
restaurant after completing her deliveries and while preparing to leave 
for another set she was shocked to see the figure of Perfume 
retrieving her axes while manifesting a threatening attitude towards 
her. The Amazon Enforcer then proceeded to chase Akane around 
the restaurant with her axes as she shouted something about defending 
her Airen's honor. Still huffing Akane proclaimed, "I don't know what 
your problem is but if you want a fight, that's what you're going to 
get!"
	After saying this Akane moved forward in a thunderous 
movement and began erratically swinging the take out box at Perfume. 
The Amazon Enforcer dodged this brutish attack with certain ease 
and flipped over Akane. The lack of respect that shone in Perfume's 
sapphire eyes only served to further anger Akane and as she whirled 
around she released a loud scream of frustration and hurled the take 
out box at Perfume who merely stepped to one side as to allow the 
delivery box to fly right past her.
	Watching the take out box soar through the air  Nabiki 
groaned. "Great," she said dryly. "There's another business expense. 
A lost take out box and a free lunch for delivering a late order. Do 
you have any idea how expensive your destructive habits are getting 
Akane?"
	"Don't blame me!" said Akane indignantly as she scowled at 
Perfume who simply sniffed at her. "This crazy Amazon was trying to 
kill me! I didn't even do anything!"
	"You let them take indecent pictures of own sister and put in 
pamphlet. That why I attack you," retorted Perfume. "I have respect 
for my Airen and I defend her honor."
	"Indecent pictures?!" Akane yelled, her face turning a bright 
shade of red as she clenched her fists. "You want to talk about 
indecent pictures and Nabiki?! Why don't I tell you about the 
thousands of times she's sold pictures of me exactly like the ones in 
that pamphlet to our classmates at school! Try defending that you 
stupid Amazon!"
	Narrowing sapphire eyes Perfume increased the tight grip on 
her axes and seeing this Nabiki said nervously, "Um. Perfume baby... 
it's all right. Really. Akane didn't mean anything by that and it's 
actually sort of true."
	"It no matter," hissed Perfume as she slowly began to advance 
on Akane. "I must punish for her disrespecting you so. It my duty as 
tribal Enforcer."
	"Go ahead!" taunted Akane, moving into fighting position. 
"Attack me! Ever since I've started training with Ryochan I've gotten a 
lot better!"
	"We will see," said Perfume coolly as she matched Akane's 
fighting position as the two girls eyed each other with certain 
predatory intent.
	"Uhmm... stop? Please?" asked Nabiki in very small and 
anxious tones that were unusual for her. Reaching a hand out she 
tugged on a short sleeve to Ukyo's shirt. "Help me here would you? 
We can't afford for any more property to get destroyed around here. 
I've already heard rumors of a lawsuit pending against us by the local 
council board."
	Ukyo did not respond and Nabiki shifted her gaze to see that 
the okonomiyaki chef wore a bewildered look on his handsome 
features. "What's wrong?" asked Nabiki.
	Not replying Ukyo merely pointed in front of him. Following 
this direction Nabiki saw the hunched form of a man with long jet 
black hair, wearing elegant white silk Chinese style clothes, was 
gobbling down the ramen that had been inside of the hurled take out 
box. The man finished eating after a few seconds and set the empty 
bowl aside before rising to his feet elegantly. Striding forward with an 
air of determination and certain ominous aura about him he paused in 
front of Nabiki and bore a bright sea green gaze into her. "Perfume," 
he said warmly and then drew Nabiki into a tight hug.
	Utterly stunned by this development Nabiki remained in his 
hold for a moment before she felt his form jerk away from her and she 
saw Perfume standing protectively in front of her with a fist firmly 
planted in the man's face.
	Wearing a deep frown Perfume pulled her fist away and 
stated in icy tones, "Mousse. What you doing here?"
	Pulling down a pair of thick glasses that had rested on the top 
of his head Mousse adjusted them on the bridge of his nose. Leaning 
in closely he stared hard at Perfume for a very long while then said, 
"Perfume? Then I have found you!"
	"That your mistake," said Perfume coolly as she tried to ignore 
the waves of surprise coming from her Airen. "Why you here 
Mousse?"
	"Yes Mousse," called the voice of Cologne as she hopped out 
of the Nekohaten on her tall staff. "What exactly are you doing here? 
Who gave you permission to cease your training and journey here?"
	"Lotion the Elder," said Mousse smugly, seeming very 
confident about something as he pushed his thick coke bottle glasses 
back to rest on the top of his jet black head. 
	Narrowing her gaze at this answer Cologne said, "I might 
have expected as much. Now tell me. Why have you come? There is 
no need for your presence."
	"I've come to stop this travesty," declared Mousse, his arm 
slashing through the air and stopping to point at Ukyo who blinked at 
this action. "This engagement is the object of trickery onto you 
outsider! Besides which, I shall never allow Perfume to marry you!"
	After he said this several hundred girls began wailing 
desperately on hearing that Ukyo was planning to marry Perfume. 
Ukyo winced at this reaction then he turned back to Mousse and said, 
"I'm not marrying Perfume. I got enough on my plate without taking 
her on buddy."
	"What?" asked Mousse. He stepped closer and leaned only 
an inch away from Ukyo's face to peer closely at the other boy's 
features. Squinting sea green eyes he pulled away a moment later then 
tried to knee Ukyo in the chin.
	Fortunately for the okonomiyaki chef, who was occupied with 
trying to figure out Mousse's odd interest with him, Nabiki saw this 
action upcoming and moved swiftly to intercept the knee with the 
palm of her hand. While doing this she used her leg to sweep Mousse 
off his feet in an easy motion. Staring at his toppled form Nabiki 
mentally ran through the list of things Perfume had said about the boy 
whose unwelcome and suffocating attentions had been the cause of so 
much of her misery back home. Shifting hazel eyes to Perfume she 
saw the mixture of rage and revulsion that was reflected in sapphire 
eyes and she knew what to do.
	And Nabiki said in steely tones, "Put your glasses back on 
and you'll see I'm the one that you're looking for."
	Obeying this order of sorts Mousse returned his thick glasses 
to the bridge of his nose. He studied Nabiki a moment then snorted. 
"So," he drawled as he rose gracefully to his feet. "We meet at last 
Tendo Nabiki. I understand you defeated my lovely Perfume in battle 
using a sneak attack. You assaulted her from behind where she could 
not expect nor see you. Is this correct?"
	"Yes," said Nabiki slowly. "Why do you ask?"
	"To simply tell you this," said Mousse arrogantly. "You have 
no binding contract with Perfume due to the nature of your attack. It 
was neither a legal nor just battle and therefore this engagement they 
claim to force on your person is falsely maintained. I now free you 
from the hold this old witch has over you."
	"You are as foolish as ever Mousse," said Cologne calmly. 
"You have neither the authority nor the right to state such a thing. I 
have forbidden you from approaching my Great Grandchild after your 
last defeat at her hands. You have no claim on Perfume while Nabiki 
on the other hand has established a very valid one."
	"She knows nothing of our laws!" seethed Mousse as he 
clenched his hands into fists. "Tendo knew not would become of her 
future when she attacked Perfume! I have done a great deal of 
research before revealing my presence here and I know that it was 
not an open challenge. And if it was not an open challenge then it is 
null and void."
	"An open challenge is what we consider it boy," said Cologne 
with disdain. "You know very well that law has been revised so many 
times that it now falls upon the warriors in our tribe to determine its 
validity onto themselves. Perfume has accepted the Tendo girl as her 
Airen. There is simply nothing you can do about it."
	"We'll see about that old woman," said Mousse 
contemptuously.
	"What's going on?" Ukyo asked Akane who had moved to his 
side to join him.
	"Don't ask me..." Akane trailed off baffled. "I just work here."
	"The engagement is void?" the voice of Nabiki floated into the 
conversation in low quiet tones, her eyes glazing over thoughtfully.
	Hearing this Mousse turned his attention back to Nabiki and 
said eagerly, "Yes! Exactly so Tendo-san. You no longer must submit 
to the old ghoul's vile machinations and you need not worry for 
Perfume's happiness. I have loved her since I was a small child and I 
will love her until the day I die. She will be happy in her life with me, I 
promise this."
	"I never be happy with you," the voice of Perfume cut in 
harshly as she moved to take a single step forward. Bearing her 
unrelenting glare into Mousse she said bluntly, "I no love you. I no 
want you. I tell you and tell you but you never listen. Go away 
Mousse. Leave me alone."
	"Perfume...?" said Mousse painfully. He took a hesitant step 
towards her and asked, "You don't really mean that do you?"
	"I mean every word," said Perfume decisively. "You leave 
now. You not bad person Mousse but you no know when to give up. 
I no love you."
	"Do as she says Mousse," said Cologne wisely. "Not only are 
you bringing disgrace to your noble house by doing this but there is 
the added fact that you have never successfully defeated Perfume in 
battle. You have no justifiable right to say such things."
	Hearing this Mousse grimaced and said, "Very well old ghoul. 
If your precious laws matter so much to you than I shall use them to 
win Perfume's hand." Shifting his attention to Nabiki he said, "It is 
your decision now Tendo. Do you wish to relinquish this false hold 
over Perfume that has been placed upon you? All you need do is say 
that you wish her to be mine and it will be so in accordance to our 
laws. Perfume will have no choice but to follow the orders of her 
Airen and designated superior in battle. What say you?"
	Nabiki shifted her gaze from Mousse to Perfume and she saw 
that the Amazon Enforcer still wore a face of vehement determination. 
It was more than clear that Perfume wanted nothing to do with this 
new arrival. As she made a closer study Nabiki was stunned to 
discover the silent plea floating in Perfume's sapphire eyes. It was an 
honest appeal for help coming from what Nabiki knew to be an 
intensely proud person. The trust that Perfume placed in her to make 
such a request clutched at her heart. All at once Nabiki was hit with 
an onslaught of emotions as she recalled the numerous times over the 
past few days where she had felt closer to Perfume than anyone else 
in the world. It was the exact same feeling she had when being with 
her Mother. And it was a feeling that Nabiki wasn't about to give up.
	Turning back to Mousse she set her jaw and said plainly, 
"No. I caught her and now I'm keeping her."
	"Airen!" exclaimed Perfume ecstatically as she moved into a 
quick run to embrace Nabiki but was halted by the arm of Mousse 
blocking the way.
	"Very well," said Mousse in dangerous tones that sent a shiver 
down Nabiki's spine. Pushing Perfume back slightly he lifted a leg and 
moved into the crane position. "There are other methods by which I 
may win Perfume's hand. I need only to triumph over you in battle and 
she is mine. Prepare yourself for defeat Tendo Nabiki!"
	"Nabchan!" cried Ukyo, moving forward as he planned to 
intervene despite the fact that the tank full of fish was resting rather 
precariously on his head now.
	"Nabiki!" Akane matched Ukyo's cry. "Don't be an idiot! You 
can't fight this guy over that stupid Amazon!"
	Echoing these calls was the loud buzz of the several hundred 
would-be Nekohaten customers waiting in line who were observing 
this entire scene. Hearing some of the scattered conversation that was 
going on Nabiki raised an auburn eyebrow in speculation. A satisfied 
smile crossing her features Nabiki lifted her palm to halt Mousse's 
advancement.
	"Not so fast," drawled Nabiki. "I have something far more 
appropriate in mind in the way of a duel for Perfume's hand. A street 
fight isn't worthy of her and I suggest that we settle this in a more 
suitable setting."
	Considering this Mousse wore a suspicious expression on his 
face but said slowly, "I am agreeable to that. What do you have in 
mind?"
	"You'll see," said Nabiki slyly. "Tomorrow. At noon. In the 
park. I trust you'll be on time?"
	"Of course," snorted Mousse derisively. Turning on his heel he 
paused to give Perfume a final look of longing then moved into a quick 
run. "Tomorrow shall herald your defeat Tendo Nabiki and then 
Perfume will be my bride!"
	Ukyo watched this departure for a moment then looked at 
Nabiki and said, "You're not seriously going to fight that nutjob are 
you?"
	"Why wouldn't I?" asked Nabiki dryly. Hazel eyes rested on 
Perfume who was looking rather meekly at her. "I certainly think the 
prize is worth fighting for."
	Immediately after this was said Perfume let loose another 
ecstatic call of, "Airen!" The Amazon Enforcer then flung herself on 
Nabiki who nearly fell backwards but managed to barely keep her 
balance. "I so happy!"
	"Uhm..." said Nabiki, her face coloring with slight 
embarrassment that was caused not from the embrace but instead 
from all the people observing it. Pulling away slowly she kept Perfume 
content by holding the other girl's hand. "We got a lot to work on." 
Shifting her attention to Cologne she continued, "Have any advice for 
me?"
	Chuckling Cologne said, "I have infinite amounts of that 
Daughter-in-law."
	"Good," said Nabiki with a sigh as she walked towards the 
restaurant. "Because I have the eeriest feeling that I'm going to need 
all of it."
	A moment of silence passed over them as they watched 
Nabiki enter the Nekohaten with Perfume at her side. Cologne broke 
this silence as she turned to Ukyo and said, "Kuonji. What is the 
purpose of having so many fish if may be allowed to ask?"
	Jumping slightly Ukyo glanced nervously up at the hundreds of 
tiny goldfish resting inside of the full tank on his head. Gripping the 
edges of the tank he said quickly, "Dinner! Kasumi needs them for 
new recipe!" Pausing he considered this answer a second then 
grimaced before saying very rapidly, "Igottago!" He then took off in a 
cloud of dust leaving Akane alone with Cologne and the huge line of 
students standing outside the restaurant.
	Chuckling again Cologne hopped inside of the Nekohaten 
while saying, "Silly child. As if I did not already suspect the true 
purpose of those fish. Good luck in mastering the Amaguriken using 
such methods."
	Standing alone Akane retained the blank face she had worn 
over the past few minutes then she finally gained a look of realization 
which shifted to annoyance as she glared at the Nekohaten entrance. 
"Nabiki..." she said in tones of definite warning as the reason behind 
her older sister's recent actions aligned themselves in her mind. "Only 
you would try to turn something like this into a chance to make 
money." Stomping inside the restaurant Akane announced, "You're 
not using me to sell any tickets to this fight of yours for you!"

	Walking hand in hand Ranma and Shampoo made their way 
out of the dojo rather reluctantly. They had put off leaving for as long 
as they could so they might wait for Ukyo to make his return but if 
they didn't leave soon they would be late for work and with Cologne 
as your boss... well. Being late for work really wasn't an option.
	"I wonder where she is," murmured Ranma, a touch of worry 
resounding in his voice. "It isn't that far from here to the pet store. I 
hope she didn't get into any trouble..."
	"Ucchan attract trouble like candle attract moths," said 
Shampoo wryly. "She no try to get into any trouble it more likely 
come searching for her. No worries though. She best martial artist I 
ever see... she can handle any foe."
	Considering this Ranma sighed then formed an easy smile and 
said, "You're right Shamchan. There's hardly anything that Ucchan 
can't handle." Swinging her hand in his he widened his smile and 
drawled, "Shall we be off?"
	Beaming Shampoo was about to make her reply when the 
sound of strangely familiar cries of panic met her ears. It was then that 
the figure of a hysterical Ukyo rounded the corner with several 
hundred starving alley cats at his heels.
	Still gripping the fish tank that sat on his head Ukyo was 
running at top speeds while releasing loud bellowing screams of terror 
as he flew past Ranma and Shampoo. The rarely fed alley cats were 
persistent in this chase as they had set their sights upon the fish in the 
tank that Ukyo had placed on top of his head to use in mastering the 
Amaguriken.
	Frozen on seeing this odd sight Ranma and Shampoo 
remained in this state for only a scarce second before they exchanged 
glances of utmost alarm then cried, "Ucchan! The Nekoken!! Oh 
no!!!"
	Chasing after the swiftly exiting frame of the perpetually 
screaming Ukyo the pair forgot about any anxiety they had possessed 
in regards to being late for work at the Nekohaten. Right now Ukyo 
needed their help and as far as Ranma and Shampoo were concerned 
that was definitely a more pressing matter than Cologne being angry 
with them.

	"Sister?" said Ryoga for good measure as he tried to access 
this fact into his brain. "But..."
	Sighing Natsume shot her twin a reproachful look then said, 
"It is simply a fond reference of sorts Hibiki-san. We are not truly 
siblings of blood, but rather of the heart. You see, little Ukyo was at 
one time fostered in the same orphanage as us..."
	"And we sort of looked after her," finished Kurumi. "By the 
time she had to leave with Master Happosai we were all so close that 
we thought of, and called each other, sisters." Looking guilty Kurumi 
said sheepishly, "I suppose I should have explained that first."
	"Oh..." said Ryoga slowly as he was beginning to understand 
the increasingly complicated story of their life. "So you two grew up 
with Ucchan then?"
	"She resided in the orphanage with us for little over a month 
before the Master retrieved her," said Natsume matter of factly. "But 
over the years we have crossed paths in our separate training journeys 
with the Master..."
	"And now we'll get to see Imotochan again!" said Kurumi 
brightly. "Now I can't wait to get to Nerima. How much further 
Natsume?"
	Tilting her head up at the sky Natsume eyed the slowly setting 
sun then said, "Very shortly Kurumi. I would say we should arrive in 
less than a day. Hopefully when we make our entrance the Master 
shall be finished with whatever business that occupies him."
	Perking up at the idea of seeing Akane in less than a day 
Ryoga felt himself become a little more sociable and adjusting his 
heavy backpack he said, "I wouldn't suppose you'd like to hear some 
of troubles that Ucchan has gotten into over the past year? I've got 
lots of stories to tell."
	Exchanging glances the twins turned their attention to Ryoga 
then said together, "We'd love to."

	"What the heck happened to you?" asked Akane as she 
gazed at the form of a very disheveled looking Ukyo entering the large 
field in the back of the Nekohaten with Ranma and Shampoo trailing 
behind him.
	The okonomiyaki chef's orange silk Chinese style shirt was 
practically ripped to shreds and the edges of his black silk pants were 
in pretty much the same condition. Added to that fact several light 
scratches were present on his handsome features and his oak brown 
hair was strewn hastily about. All in all it made him look scruffier than 
even Ryoga would on his worst day of lost journeying. 
	"I don't wanna talk about it," Ukyo muttered irately. Focusing 
on Cologne and he said, "What's this all about old ghoul? Why'd you 
shut down the restaurant early?"
	"Calm yourself," said Cologne sagely. "This is all for the 
welfare of the Daughter-in-law here. She needs our help if she is to 
defeat Mousse in battle."
	"Mousse?" said Shampoo in surprise. "Mousse is here? He 
follow us?" Scarlet eyes immediately went to Perfume who nodded in 
solemn confirmation. "Aiyaah..." Shampoo trailed off quietly. "Is very 
bad."
	Blinking Ranma said, "Mousse?" Turning to Ukyo he said 
wryly, "Let me guess... it's another Amazon?" He shook his jet black 
head while chuckling. "Where do they come up with these names?" 
Still laughing at bit he looked at Shampoo and said, "If we have a kid 
no way are we naming it after a hair care product, okay?"
	"Same for me," said Ukyo, his mood lifting a bit as the usual 
playful banter between he and Ranma was brought about. "Things 
being unusual are fine with me... but some of these Amazon names 
leave a lot to be desired."
	Her scarlet eyes wide at these comments Shampoo tried to 
logically take in what was just said but it was very difficult. Especially 
since the tender and almost casual way her Airens had mentioned the 
possibility of naming their children. Their children... did this truly mean 
they were going to have a future together? Noting the stares from the 
others and the look of amusement from her Cousin she ended her 
mental wanderings then said, "Is no good make jokes about Mousse. 
He is stubborn and not give up in chase after Perfume. If he want fight 
Nabiki... it be hard battle."
	"Why is that?" questioned Nabiki from where she stood with 
Perfume hovering close at her side. "He didn't look all that impressive 
to me."
	"Airen no want underestimate Mousse," said Perfume quickly, 
her sapphire eyes flashing with worry. "He is the Master of dark 
magicks back home. He can be tricky and sneaky fighter when he 
want."
	"Sneaky, huh?" said Nabiki as she formed her trademark 
sardonic smile. "Well I think I know something about being sneaky in 
battle... if that's his main strength then I've got him beaten there."
	"I dunno Nabchan..." said Ukyo thoughtfully as he rubbed the 
back of his oak brown head. "At first look that Mousse guy may seem 
like nothing but did you see the way he moved? Real graceful... like 
he was skimming along the surface of the street. Trust me sugar, 
there's more to him than meets the eye."
	"Truer words have never been spoken," said Cologne in tones 
of definite admiration as she turned her attention from Ukyo to 
Nabiki. "Kuonji is correct. Mousse is a more cunning opponent than 
you may think Tendo-san. His school is one of hidden weapons 
martial arts. What leads him to win in battle is the folly of his foes 
underestimating him. And when they do... he strikes and it is over. If 
you do not wish this to happen to you I would begin to treat his 
challenge more seriously."
	Taken aback by Cologne's grim attitude Nabiki shifted on her 
heels uncomfortably then said, "All right. Then what do you have in 
mind? Is there anything you can specifically tell me about Mousse's 
fighting style that would give me an advantage over him tomorrow?"
	Releasing her hold on her gnarled staff Cologne fell to the 
gracefully ground and extended her arms, causing the red and green 
sleeves to the long dress she wore to seemingly expand. Then 
suddenly out of nowhere a pair of thick chains with spiked 
cannonballs attached to the end of them came flying from her sleeves 
and at Nabiki who instinctively dodged this attack as Perfume 
retrieved her double bladed axes to slice the attacking cannonballs 
into dust.
	"What was that about?" said Nabiki raggedly, trying to catch 
her breath as she knelt on one leg. She felt a soft touch on her 
shoulder and Nabiki looked up into the fiercely protective face of 
Perfume who was frowning at Cologne.
	"You..." hissed Perfume angrily as she dismissed her axes 
from her hold. Kneeling she wrapped an arm around Nabiki's waist 
while helping the other girl to her feet as she sharply said, "No do that 
again. You never do that again. I no let anyone, even you Hiibaachan, 
try to hurt Nabiki. You want help her fight Mousse... fine. But you 
give warning next time. I not want risks taken around my Airen."
	"Perfume," Nabiki said softly, barely above a whisper as she 
gazed up at the strong profile of the Amazon Enforcer who was still 
lending her physical support.
	"I can't believe you!" came the voice of a yet again enraged 
Akane as she stepped towards Cologne who watched this approach 
with some interest. "Attacking Nabiki like that! You could've killed 
her!"
	Raising an eyebrow at this accusation Cologne said dryly, "I 
would hardly do that young lady. The pain her death would insight on 
both my Great Grandchild and on the future sons-in-laws would be 
great and such action would certainly be unwise on my part." 
Directing her gaze back to Nabiki she said, "No. I merely wanted to 
give an example of what exactly she'll be facing in battle with 
Mousse."
	Forming a lazy smile Nabiki drawled, "Now I get it. Of 
course you would mean hidden weapons in the literal term." Pausing 
Nabiki ran her mind over Cologne's sudden attack and Mousse's 
appearance. Hazel eyes gleamed in realization and she said, "He 
makes it seem as if he's hiding them in his clothes but that can't be it..."
	"It's probably a dimensional pocket," said Ukyo matter of 
factly. Noting the astonished stares from everyone he said defensively, 
"What? Suddenly I'm stupid or something? The Master taught me all 
about linear subspace pockets and things. That way I could use them 
in my armed attacks if I wanted." Snorting he continued, "I bet that's 
what that Mousse guy is using. Stupid jackass thinks he put us on by 
hiding the dimensional pockets in the space under that damned huge 
shirt he wears... well it won't work."
	"Impressive," said Cologne as she looked at Ukyo with 
certain regard in wizened eyes. "Obviously you have talents not yet 
fully revealed Kuonji." Turning her attention back to Nabiki she 
continued sagely, "She is correct of course. Mousse implements 
dimensional pockets to store the huge array of weapons available to 
him in battle. This is what you need be wary of most, Daughter-in-
law. His attacks will come swiftly and he will use devices you never 
considered dangerous to bring about your undoing."
	 "Swell," said Nabiki dryly. "Think you might give me any tips 
on avoiding that sort of thing? I'd like to make it out of this fight in 
tact..."
	"Mousse fight at great distances," Shampoo said thoughtfully. 
"He no like to get close to those he challenge but Nabiki... she 
depend on being close to opponent to use her moves. They complete 
opposites in fighting style. Is big problem to fix this and help Nabiki 
win."
	Regarding Shampoo with a proud gaze Cologne murmured, 
"An astute observation my child. Tendo-san is no match for Mousse 
using her usual techniques. We shall have to train her to employ a new 
method of fighting. One which includes a weapon..." Cologne flexed 
her wrinkled hands suddenly the form of a shining silver bo appeared 
them. Narrowing her gaze slightly Cologne tossed the bo to a 
surprised Nabiki then said, "A gift for you Daughter-in-law. This bo 
once belonged to someone who was very special to me and now I 
give it to you. Use it bravely and use it well."
	Looking at the bo which seemed to glow with an almost 
ethereal light and seemed to pulse with hidden power Nabiki 
stammered, "B-But... I don't even know how to use this. I've never 
fought using a weapon before."
	"No worries Airen," replied Perfume confidently as she 
clasped Nabiki's shoulders. "We teach you how. Great Grandmother 
and I. Train all night if have to but we make sure you more than ready 
for fight with Mousse. After all," Perfume drawled in slow tones that 
imitated Nabiki's voice almost perfectly. "If I is really a prize worth 
fighting for then you need to win. Is right?"
	Lifting anxious hazel eyes Nabiki locked them with Perfume's 
warm sapphire gaze and felt the clenching feeling in her stomach 
subside. "Yeah," whispered Nabiki, a small smile crossing her sharp 
features. "That's right."
	Nabiki then shifted into a thoroughly mischievous expression 
and leaned forward to murmur something in Perfume's ear. 
Immediately after she did this and drew away the Amazon Enforcer 
flushed a deep crimson color while fidgeting nervously and as she did 
this Perfume refused to meet anyone, most of all Shampoo's, gaze.

	"I should be helping Nabchan," said Ukyo stubbornly as he 
paced back and forth across the verandah to the Tendo dojo. "She 
needs me..."
	Some of those currently watching Ukyo go through this 
frustrated routine were Ranma and Shampoo who wore wry but 
otherwise fond smiles on their faces at his actions. There was also 
Nodoka who was arranging a small snack of rice cakes and tea for 
the group as Soun and Genma were continuing their endless game of 
shogi. And last in the group was Ryonami who joined them, at 
Nabiki's request, shortly after they left the Nekohaten. Ryonami was 
sifting through a large pile of papers, only stopping this movement to 
calculate figures on the ticket sales to the fight on the pocket computer 
borrowed from Nabiki. 
	"Now Ukyo," said Nodoka soothingly as she handed 
Shampoo a cup of tea. "There really isn't anything for you to worry 
about. Nabiki will be fine training with Cologne and Perfume, they'll 
help her win the fight against Mousse. Why not use this time to try and 
master the Amaguriken?"
	Scowling at this comment Ukyo muttered, "Master the 
Amaguriken she says. It isn't that easy Obasan Saotome. I tried and 
tried but I can't get that damn move down... even using the water and 
fishes." Grousing he looked to Ranma who was occupied by 
munching on a rice cake. "Ranchan managed to figure it out after a 
couple of hours but me? It's two days later and a billion different tries 
and I still can't manage to snag one lousy chestnut or fish."
	"Foolish girl," said Genma gravely as he looked up from his 
game of shogi and the figure of Soun hiding several playing pieces in 
his pockets. "Your strength lies not with your speed but with the force 
of your spirit. Haven't you listened to anything the Master has taught 
you? The Amaguriken is a maneuver based on speed. Ranma's talent 
is his speed while yours is chi or battle aura." Genma formed a smug 
smile while pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. "Don't waste 
your time trying to master a technique which is ultimately useless to 
your talents. Focus on something that is more fitting to your skills."
	Frozen in his pacing Ukyo blinked away the shock from this 
serious speech of Genma's and said, "Oh yeah? And what's that old 
man? What technique do you have in mind?"
	"Heh," chuckled Genma, his glasses glinting as he raised his 
head. "I have absolutely no idea. I just wanted you to give up trying to 
master the Amaguriken. It's starting to get painful watching you fail 
over and over again."
	"You... you..." seethed Ukyo as he balled his hands up into 
fists. Leaping forward he grabbed Genma by the top to his white gi 
and hurled him through the air. "Jackass!" Ukyo ended with a shout. 
And twitching slightly and he smiled harshly upon hearing the large 
splash coming from the koi pond as Genma landed in it. Walking into 
the sitting room he sat next to Shampoo and muttered, "Telling me to 
give up. Painful my butt. I'll show him painful..."
	"Airen," said Shampoo, gently touching Ukyo's forearm. 
"Maybe rude panda man is right... you no have much luck with 
Amaguriken. Shampoo could try teach you different technique if 
want."
	"Oh no," said Ukyo tightly. "I'm not giving up. I'm going to 
master the Amaguriken if it's the last thing I do. I don't care if it isn't 
my area of expertise... I don't give up! I'm the heir the Anything Goes 
school of martial arts and I'll be damned if I'm going to lie down and 
play dead." Pausing he narrowed sandalwood eyes and produced a 
miniature spatula between his fingers. "I'd put that sign down if I were 
you old man. I ain't in the mood."
	Meeting Ukyo's cutting gaze Genma panda growfed in 
nervously then tossed the sign he held behind his back and into the koi 
pond. Seeing this Ukyo grumbled, "Stupid old man... criticizing me. 
You wait and see. I'll find some way to beat the ghoul at her own 
game..."
	Sighing Nodoka said, "Ukyo please do not resort to name 
calling. Surely Cologne has improved somewhat in her standing with 
you by aiding Nabiki in her battle against Mousse? There seems to be 
no obvious form of resentment against you so there must be a logical 
reason behind her actions involving implementing the Cat-Tongue. We 
simply need discover it and your problems will be over."
	"And how're we supposed to that, huh?" Ukyo asked as he 
casually swirled the water inside the tank filled with fish that he hard 
purchased earlier that day. "Sounds damn near impossible if you ask 
me. The old ghoul guards her secrets something fierce."
	"Fear not," said Nodoka in tones of icy solemnity as she rose 
to her feet with her hands placed firmly on her katana. "I shall 
discover all you need know."
	With that Nodoka strode out of the sitting room, an air of 
definite purpose coming from her. Observing this exit Ukyo blankly 
said to himself, "Nani?" Turning to his iinazuke he questioned, "Do you 
have any idea what Auntie was talking about Ranchan?"
	"Not a clue," replied Ranma with a shrug. "Mom can get 
pretty mysterious when she wants to. But I'll tell you this much, once 
she has her mind made up about something it's pretty hard to change 
it. I almost feel sorry for the old woman if Mom's against her."
	Sipping the tea that Nodoka had given her Shampoo 
murmured, "Ranma Mother give aura of strong fighter. Much pride in 
her... I think she give Great Grandmother trouble if she make up mind 
to interfere with plans."
	Growfing loudly at this Genma panda gained their attention as 
he held up a sign which read: <My wife is not someone to be trifled 
with. I of all people know this.>
	Releasing a frustrated puff of air from his lips Ukyo blew his 
oak brown bangs upwards as he focused sandalwood eyes on the 
form of Ryonami who was still calculating figures. Resting his chin in 
the palms of his hands Ukyo studied the girl carefully then questioned, 
"What exactly are you up to sugar?"
	Tearing away from her work Ryonami flushed slightly then 
replied softly, "I'm going through the ticket sales for Sempai's match 
tomorrow. So far it's exceeding the highest profit margin she 
estimated. There should be quite the turn out... especially since she 
gained permission from the park officials to utilize it the entire 
afternoon due to the money that will brought in by the vendors 
attending."
	"No kidding?" said Ukyo casually as he leaned forward to 
peak over Ryonami's shoulder. "How much did Nabchan figure she 
was going to make anyway?"
	Silently Ryonami handed the papers over to Ukyo while still 
blushing bright red and the okonomiyaki chef's eyes immediately 
widened as he saw the profit figures. Letting loose a low wolf whistle 
Ukyo said, "Hot damn... that'll teach me to underestimate Nabchan's 
business savvy. Looks like the crowd is going to hit nearly a thousand 
people." Lifting his gaze he smiled wryly while handing the figures 
back to Ryonami. "I'd hate to be a parks worker tomorrow. That's 
going to be some mess to clean up."
	"Y-yes," said Ryonami, slightly stammering as she averted her 
dark brown gaze from Ukyo. "Sempai is always thinking of the 
advantages in any given situation. It's one of her better qualities."
	"Just one of many," drawled Ukyo. Rising to his feet he gave a 
tiny yawn while stretching his arms. Giving Ryonami a friendly smile he 
ruffled her short brown hair then said, "I'll see you later kiddo. It's 
time for me to hit the sack." Looking to Shampoo he questioned, 
"Shamchan, do you want to head back to the Nekohaten? You can 
stick around a little longer and talk to Ranchan if you want or we can 
walk you back now. It's your call."
	Shampoo exchanged an earnest look with Ranma then said, "I 
stay here little longer. Talk with Ranchan. You have good sleep. Need 
rest, not worries. We figure something out to get Phoenix pill. Is for 
certain. Failing is no option, not when it come to you Ucchan."
	"That's right," said Ranma seriously. "We're going to come up 
with a solution for you Ucchan. There's no way that the old ghoul is 
getting away with this."
	Ukyo wore a wan smile as he walked over to the pair and 
kneeling between Ranma and Shampoo he drew them both into a 
tender hug. Ukyo then gently kissed the tops of their heads and pulled 
away from them rather reluctantly. He then wearily left the sitting room 
as he murmured, "Woda Airens. Wo ai ni."
	Frozen with the exact same face of shock on their features 
Ranma and Shampoo could only blink as the lanky figure of Ukyo 
walked away towards his attic domain. And observing this odd 
reaction the normally shy Ryonami felt her insatiable curiosity take 
hold and hesitantly asked, "What Ukyo just said... what did it mean?"
	Together Ranma and Shampoo turned their gazes to Ryonami 
and upon seeing the innocent expression on her face they 
simultaneously burst into peals of laughter. And in much the same 
position as before Ryonami watched them while wondering just what 
was so funny. 

	"Tell me again why I'm wearing this thing?" said Ukyo a bit 
irately as he trailed behind the timid Ryonami who was leading the 
group of dojo occupants to the park and to Nabiki's scheduled duel.
	The okonomiyaki chef was currently tugging on the long 
cotton chain attached to a laminated gold card which read: Kuonji 
Ukyo; Guest. They sort of reminded Ukyo of how backstage passes 
at concerts look for those who have them reserved. And wearing such 
a thing made him feel more than a little uneasy. Next to Ukyo was 
Ranma who was standing on his tippy toes as to get a better look at 
the park which was obscured by a huge milling crowd. Behind him 
Kasumi eyed the mass of people with certain dismay. Akane matched 
the dismay of her older sister as she tried to figure out if the crowd 
was bigger than the one at her figure skating match against the Golden 
Pair. Nodoka wore her usual cool face of clinical decision as she kept 
her hands ever focused on the katana she carried. Genma meanwhile 
had drifted towards one of the several food vendors and was 
purchasing a snack for himself while Soun was forming tears in his 
eyes as he contemplated the events ahead.
	"I'm sorry Kuonji-san," said Ryonami softly while shuffling 
through a pile of papers she held. "But Sempai told me that you 
should wear them. Without them you might be moved out of your 
reserved seats near the ring and they could try to charge you the fee 
for a ticket. It's best if you kept the necklace on for now."
	"All right sugar," grumbled Ukyo, letting go of the necklace as 
it fell against his chest. "If you say so."
	"Some crowd, huh Ucchan?" questioned Ranma with a grin as 
he bounded up on his toes once more to get a good look at the ring 
they were approaching. "Wonder how they all knew about the duel?"
	"Most probably don't," said Ryonami, cutting quietly into the 
conversation and blushing as she did so. "Sempai's workers are still 
selling tickets at the entrance to the park as you can see... I would 
guess that a good number of the people attending were simply 
wandering by and became curious at the crowd already here and 
decided to buy tickets to whatever event was occurring. In this case, 
Sempai's duel against Mousse."
	"A duel!" wailed Soun as a fountain of tears let loose. "Why 
does violence always involve my little girls? Oh Nabiki! You were 
supposed to be the smart one!"
	After Soun said this he began blubbering loudly as Akane shot 
him a dirty look at his last comment while Kasumi sighed in quiet 
exasperation. Nodoka observed this and gently said, "Calm down old 
friend. I'm sure all will be well. Trust in Nabiki and her skills..."
	"Airens!" called the bubbly voice of Shampoo as she pushed 
through the crowd of people as the group neared ring side. Bounding 
forward she stopped in front of them wearing a wide grin on her 
features. "Is lucky that I find you so quick! Lot of people here, yes? 
Very confusing."
	"Where's Nabchan?" asked Ukyo quickly as he averted his 
gaze in a calculating manner.
	Frowning slightly Shampoo replied, "She over there."
	Following the direction Shampoo gestured towards Ukyo 
dashed away leaving the lavender haired Amazon alone with Ranma 
who wore a frown similar to her own. Seeing their expressions 
Nodoka released a sigh almost identical to Kasumi's and resolved that 
it was none of her business. The young ones would have to solve this 
particular problem on their own.

	"Nabchan!" called Ukyo excitedly as he forced his way 
through the crowd and caught just a hint of his friend's auburn hair 
peeking through the masses.
	Lifting her gaze from Perfume, whom she had been conversing 
with, Nabiki turned towards the sound of Ukyo's voice and said, 
"Ucchan! Over here!"
	Looking around Ukyo groaned at his situation. He was 
cramped in between people like a sardine in a can and furrowing his 
brow in consideration Ukyo pushed back on his heels to propel 
himself into the air in a high flip. An instant later he landed directly in 
front of Nabiki who wore a face of fond amusement. Seeing this 
Ukyo grinned widely and said, "I finally found you sugar. How're 
doing?"
	"Fantastic," drawled Nabiki. Holding up the silver bo in her 
grip she smiled dangerously and lowering her voice she said 
conspiratorially, "With this and Perfume baby's special training my 
victory is guaranteed."
	"Oh yeah?" questioned Ukyo curiously, an eyebrow quirked. 
"What's so special about that thing anyway? Besides the obvious 
monetary value it must have... I know you must love that. Fighting 
with a weapon that precious."
	Tapping Ukyo's nose lightly Nabiki impishly said, "I'll tell you 
the whole story later. After I've beaten Mousse."
	"Huh," murmured Ukyo thoughtfully as he rubbed his nose. 
Shifting his gaze to Perfume, whose sapphire eyes were narrowed 
slightly, Ukyo smiled and questioned, "Would you tell me what's up?"
	"If Airen no say, then I no say," Perfume said stiffly. 
	Blinking at the icy tone in Perfume's voice Ukyo did not have 
time to question her on it when the figure of Mousse stormed towards 
the group and declared, "The time has come Tendo Nabiki! Now we 
shall finally resolve just who is most worthy of my darling Perfume's 
hand!" Grabbing Ukyo by the front of his royal blue Chinese style silk 
shirt Mousse leant forward and hissed, "I know your destiny Tendo 
and it is defeat. Get ready."
	"All right," grated Ukyo as he grabbed Mousse's wrists and 
squeezed them tightly. "For one thing, I'm not Nabiki you jackass. For 
another, don't you think you should save it for the ring?" Flicking his 
index finger against the right lens to Mousse's thick glasses Ukyo 
continued, "And I'd get your prescription updated if I were you. That 
kinda thing is only going to make it easier for Nabchan to thrash you."
	"Eh?" questioned Mousse as he adjusted his glasses and 
pressed them closer to his face. Inspecting Ukyo he said 
contemptuously, "Who are you?"
	"I'm Kuonji Ukyo," said Ukyo, folding his arms across his 
broad chest. "What's it to you?"
	"Kuonji Ukyo..." repeated Mousse slowly.
	Ignoring Mousse who was once again studying him closely 
Ukyo averted his gaze to Ranma and Shampoo who were 
approaching them along with the rest of the dojo occupants. "Hey 
y'all," greeted Ukyo warmly. "What took you so long? The duel's 
about to get started."
	"Airen," said Shampoo annoyance, as she clutched to 
Ranma's arm. "Why you leave so fast? Is rude."
	Turning red at this comment Ukyo lowered his gaze to stare at 
the ground and said, "I'm sorry Shamchan. I sorta was in a hurry to 
see if Nabiki was okay..."
	Forming a complacent smile at this Shampoo was about to 
reply when Mousse interrupted with, "So at last I meet the famed first 
Airen of Shampoo." He paused after saying this and squinted at 
Ukyo. "Although you meet all your stalwart descriptions Kuonji-san I 
still cannot help but sympathize for your situation. Trapped as a man 
by the old ghoul all due to the situation Shampoo has placed you in. 
What a sorrow filled dilemma and is most amazing is that Shampoo 
still thinks that she will convince you to wed her. Ridiculous!" Mousse 
snorted. "Why would you ever wish to wed such a vile creature as 
her?"
	"Hey!!" Ranma shouted before either Shampoo or Ukyo 
could respond. Stalking forward he grabbed Mousse by the material 
of his white silk shirt and said roughly, "I'd take that back if I were 
you. Nobody talks about Shampoo like that while I'm around. You 
got it?"
	Sniffing Mousse pushed Ranma's hands from his shirt and 
questioned, "And who might you be?"
	"Saotome Ranma," growled Ranma. He paused a moment 
then smirking added, "I'm Shampoo's second Airen and Ukyo's 
iinazuke."
	"Ah," said Mousse in slow interest. "Interesting. I had heard 
some news about you but nothing as to regards of such strong a 
defense of Shampoo. I was under the impression you preferred your 
half-man iinazuke to her. Oh how things swiftly change over short 
periods of time." Chuckling he turned his attention to Shampoo and 
said, "Congratulations Shampoo. Both your Airens appear to be 
hopelessly infatuated with you. I ponder about what ancient spells you 
have cast on them in order to maintain such feelings."
	"That's it!" Ukyo exclaimed, unsheathing his battle spatula. 
"I'm gonna pound your skull in buddy! I've had damn well enough of 
you insulting Shampoo!"
	Yanking Mousse back into his hold Ranma snarled, "I'm with 
you Ucchan. Lets--"
	Before the situation could escalate further the loud thump of a 
staff hitting the back of Mousse's head sounded as he fell to the 
ground cueing Cologne's appearance. Giving Mousse a look of 
certain disdain she said, "Save it for the duel. You have no quarrel 
with them Mousse." Turning to Ukyo and Ranma she gave them an 
appraising gaze and continued, "Sons-in-law. That was quite an  
impressive gesture of defense on the behalf of my Great 
Granddaughter. I praise your efforts."
	Pushing himself up off the ground Mousse dusted off the 
sleeves to his shirt and grumbled, "It was not of your affair to interfere 
old woman but you are correct. I am not here for the victims of 
Shampoo." Whirling around to face Nabiki he declared, "The time has 
come Tendo Nabiki! Let us settle just who Perfume belongs with!"
	"Already used that line," Ukyo muttered to himself as he 
crossly observed Mousse's posturing.
	Spinning the silver bo in her grip Nabiki wore her usual lazy 
smile and said in sardonic tones, "Whatever you say. Lets get this 
over with."
	Pushing his thick glasses up the bridge of his nose Mousse 
nodded solemnly then folding his arms inside the wide sleeves to his 
shirt he gracefully leapt into the air and landed in the center of the ring. 
Watching this Nabiki raised an auburn eyebrow and was about to 
follow him into the ring when she felt a soft tug at her arm. Shifting her 
hazel eyes she gazed at the burning sapphire gaze of Perfume.
	"Airen," said Perfume quietly, a torrent of emotions playing on 
her beautiful features. Gently cupping Nabiki's cheek with one hand 
she continued, "You be careful. I no want you hurt... especially not for 
my sake. Make sure to remember that and what I taught you."
	Returning the smile Nabiki tugged Perfume's hand from her 
face and held them in her own. "Don't worry Perfume baby," she said 
softly. "If there's one thing I'm good at it's taking care of myself. I'll be 
fine... I promise."
	After saying this Nabiki paused then seeming to come to an 
internal decision she darted forward for a quick kiss in which their lips 
only briefly touched. Pulling away Nabiki turned swiftly on her heel 
and ran into the ring where Mousse awaited her arrival.
	"So you're the Master of dark magick, huh?" said Nabiki 
casually as she moved into fighting position across from Mousse, the 
white gi she was wearing hanging loosely off her frame. "Doesn't 
sound all that impressive."
	"Heh," chuckled Mousse as he extended his arms, causing the 
long white sleeves to his shirt to fall towards the ground. "Soon you 
will regret those words Tendo. Behold the long practiced style of my 
family... the school of Hidden Weapons Martial Arts!" Shouting this 
Mousse flung his arms forward and a barrage of heavy chains with 
various medieval weapons attached to them flew at Nabiki.
	Dropping quickly to the ground Nabiki gripped her silver bo 
tightly then pressed her thumb against the lined middle of the weapon 
and causing the bo to suddenly grow in length. Swinging it in her hold 
Nabiki swept Mousse off his feet, sending him and his weapons flying 
back into the air only to have them land with a crash on his 
midsection. Rising to her feet Nabiki pressed the same hidden switch 
and the bo reverted back to its normal length.
	"You were saying?" Nabiki asked calmly, observing Mousse 
who was trying to get to his feet.
	"It's not over Tendo..." said Mousse gravely. "I will not give 
up on the battle for Perfume so easily. If my normal techniques will not 
work on you I will simply have to change my approach." Shrugging off 
his white shirt to reveal his broad chest Mousse declared, "The time 
has come Tendo Nabiki! I'll settle this with you now... and using only 
my bare hands!"

	"Stupid jerk needs to stop repeating himself," said Ukyo 
irritably. Turning to Cologne he questioned, "What's going on, old 
ghoul? What's Mousse up to now?"
	"I do not know," replied Cologne solemnly. "But whatever it is 
it does not herald good news for the Daughter-in-law."
	"Great," grumbled Ukyo, his sandalwood eyes moving back 
to the fight where Mousse and Nabiki were circling one another.

	Hazel eyes watched Mousse with steady calculation when 
suddenly he flew at her and Nabiki barely dodged his attack. Turning 
on her heel the first thing she was met with was a strong kick to her 
midsection which caused her to go flying back into the ring and slam 
against a far pole in the corner. Slumped on the ground Nabiki could 
make out the harried screams of Ukyo and Perfume along with the 
ever present wailing of her Father. Shaking this off she grabbed the 
rubbery ropes to the ring and pushed herself up off the ground. 
Clutching her ribs as she rose Nabiki gave Mousse an admiring look 
and said, "Nice kick."
	"Thank you," said Mousse politely, nearing Nabiki as he 
cracked his knuckles in preparation for his next attack. "I regret that it 
was excessive in force but I do not want this to last any longer than it 
needs to. Although you do stand in the way of my claiming Perfume as 
my own I have no real grudge against you as a person. So there's no 
reason to make you suffer any longer then needed."
	Leaning against her silver bo Nabiki quirked an auburn 
eyebrow and said, "Is that so? Well... isn't that a coincidence? I feel 
the same way about you. I guess we do have something in common 
besides our mutual affection for Perfume. Of course, my affections are 
welcome while yours on the other hand... well. We all know what 
strong emotions Perfume has for you, ne?"
	Arrogance shifted to fury and a deep scowl formed on 
Mousse's features and as he neared Nabiki a dark cloud of hostile 
energy could be seen surrounding him. Nabiki looked pleased at this 
turn of events and slowly moving into fighting position again she lifted 
her silver bo in anticipation of his next attack.

	"Nabchan," breathed Ukyo. "What the hell is she doing?! 
Doesn't she realize she's only making him angrier?"
	"She know," said Perfume seriously. Sapphire eyes gleamed 
with a combination of concern and awe. "She do on purpose. Make 
Mousse very angry and loose concentration then she use against 
him..."
	Blinking at this explanation Ukyo turned back to the ring 
where Mousse was indeed looking like he had lost all control of his 
emotions.

	"Tendo," seethed Mouse as he stalked forward. "I'll make you 
swallow those words. Perfume loves me... she just doesn't know it. I'll 
win her heart. All I need is the chance to do so. And that means... 
getting you out of the way!" As he shouted this Mousse flew forward 
and his arms became a blur from the speed of his attack.
	Narrowing hazel eyes Nabiki recognized the use of the 
Amaguriken from all the times she'd seen Ranma mastering it and 
Ukyo attempting to throughout the week. Backing away slowly she 
spun the silver bo in her grasp and with cool calculation every time 
Mousse threw a super fast punch at her she blocked it with her 
weapon. This fight of blurring speed continued for several minutes until 
Nabiki finding herself tire from the effort of blocking all of Mousse's 
punches lowered her bo a millimeter and while ducking a punch aimed 
at her face she pulled the bo back to slam it into Mousse's midsection. 
After she did this Mousse backed away slowly and in a precise 
movement Nabiki knocked his thick glasses off of his face.
	Grasping at thin air for his lost glasses Mousse continued to 
back away, this time stumbling from the loss of his eyesight, and 
slowly rising to her full height Nabiki spun the bo in her grip and 
proceeded to implement the weapon as it was intended. An extended 
way for Nabiki to use her school of pressure point attacks to disable 
her opponent.

	"What...?" questioned Ryoga in certain confusion. "I don't 
remember the dojo looking this way before."
	Ryoga and his traveling companions had only just found their 
way into the small district of Nerima and were in the process of 
interpreting Ryoga's bumbling directions to the Tendo dojo when they 
somehow found themselves in the midst of a very crowded park. 
	"I think it's a park," said Kurumi cheerily, trying to ignore 
Ryoga's perpetually clueless nature. "We must've gotten lost on the 
way to your dojo Ryoga-kun."
	"There appears to be a duel in progress," informed Natsume, 
her tawny eyes scanning their surroundings. "It is feasible to think that 
your..." Trailing off the elegant girl wore a face of utter amazement and 
joy.
	Seeing this shift in her normally solemn sister's visage Kurumi 
questioned, "What is it Natsume?"
	"Ukyo," said Natsume softly as she pointed ahead to the 
lanky form of a male Ukyo who was watching the match with some 
degree of intensity.
	Following her sister's gaze Kurumi gasped in recognition and 
raising her staff into the air Natsume created a wind tunnel. Sucked 
inside of the whirling monstrosity the twins moved towards the form of 
their adopted sibling.
	Meanwhile a baffled Ryoga was staring at the ring as he said, 
"Nabiki? What're you doing in there? And who's that guy?" 
Scratching the back of his dark head Ryoga said, "The strangest 
things always happen when I'm gone..."

	"Little Ukyo!"
	Lifting his oak brown head Ukyo's sandalwood eyes widened 
as he heard the nickname that was only used by four people in his life. 
All of whom he'd give anything in the world to see again. Turning his 
gaze Ukyo took in the form of a huge whirlwind heading his way and 
immediately he knew who it was. While everyone gaped at the huge 
wind tunnel, including Nabiki who had ceased her planned attack on 
the blind Mousse inside the ring, Ukyo bounced up and down on his 
heels happily. As the whirlwind dissipated two familiar figures stood 
before him. There was only a second of peace before Ukyo and the 
two girls ran towards each other to become engulfed in a giant 
embrace.
	"Ucchan?" questioned Ranma dazed. He'd never seen his 
iinazuke this happy before... it was like he was a little kid.
	Next to him Shampoo wore the same frown from before. She 
didn't like the increasing trend that seemed to be occurring in the way 
of rivals for Ukyo's affections.
	Pulling out of the embrace Ukyo moved to one side to reveal 
the forms of two very attractive girls. One svelte and elegant with oak 
brown hair close to Ukyo's color that was pulled up into a high 
ponytail. The girl next to her was much shorter with thick chocolate 
brown hair that rivaled Sakura's in spikiness and was pulled back with 
a large red bow.
	"Everybody," began Ukyo happily. "Meet Natsume and 
Kurumi. My sisters."
	There was a moment of silence before all the dojo occupants 
said together, "Sisters?"

	Noting Nabiki's distraction, despite his blinded state, Mousse 
implemented his use of dimensional pockets and produced a large 
chain with a spiked cannonball at the end of it. Adjusting his stance he 
sent it whirling through the air only to have it fly well past Nabiki and 
into the crowd where several screams of terror sounded.
	Blinking Nabiki turned her attention back to Mousse after this 
action and frowned. "That wasn't very sportsmanlike. You could've 
hurt someone with that," said Nabiki while clucking her tongue. "I'll 
just have to make sure that you don't try something like that again."
	In a swift movement Nabiki darted forward and the silver bo 
in her grip flashed as it flew ahead hitting several pressure points on 
Mousse's chest and seconds later he collapsed to the ground 
unconscious. Observing this Nabiki said sardonically, "I win."
	Giving Mousse a final jab with her bo Nabiki sniffed on seeing 
that none other than Perfume had seen her victory. Returning the 
Amazon Enforcer's joyous smile Nabiki walked out of the ring and 
towards the developing chaos outside of it on which everyone was 
focused.

	"Sisters?" repeated Ranma as he took a step forward. "But 
you never mentioned having any sisters Ucchan."
	"They're not her real sisters son," said Genma solemnly. 
"Natsume and Kurumi met Ukyo in the orphanage she was briefly 
placed in after her Father's death. The Master found Ukyo there and 
before he took her back to us he made Natsume and Kurumi his 
official disciples. Sometimes they would travel with the Master, Ukyo, 
and I on training journeys." Forming a small smile he said, "It's good 
to see you both doing so well."
	"Thank you, Ojisama Saotome," said Natsume and Kurumi 
together in polite tones as they bowed.
	Still looking rather giddy Ukyo said, "What're you two doing 
here? Can you stay long?"
	"We are here to meet the Master," said Natsume.
	"But we have no idea how long we'll be staying," finished 
Kurumi cheerily. "Hopefully it will be a long visit. From what your 
friend Ryoga told us this seems like an interesting district to live in."
	"Ryoga?" said Akane quickly. "Ryochan is with you? Where 
is he?" Before Natsume or Kurumi could reply Akane spotted the lost 
boy who was staring at the crowd with a hapless expression and was 
off like a shot running towards him as she called, "Ryochan!! I'm over 
here!"
	"So," drawled Nabiki as she approached with Perfume 
clinging to her arm. "The Master is coming to town. No wonder my 
defeat of Mousse was so thoroughly upstaged. At least I made a 
killing on the betting pool. Right Ryonami?"
	"Hai Sempai," replied Ryonami quickly as she handed over 
the profit sheets. "You sure did."
	Looking sheepish Ukyo scratched the back of his head and 
said, "Sorry Nabchan... I really did wanna see you thrash that jerk but 
Natsume and Kurumi sorta showed up and--"
	"It's okay," said Nabiki calmly as she studied her profits 
carefully. "I understand completely. After all, how often is it that a 
giant whirlwind interrupts a duel of honor?"
	"No matter," said Cologne. "All that is of significance is that 
you defeated Mousse. He no longer has any right to claim Perfume... 
you've won Perfume as your own Daughter-in-law. Congratulations."
	"Uhm..." said Nabiki nervously as she flushed beet red. 
"Thanks." Hazel eyes shifted to sapphire ones as Perfume cuddled 
closer to Nabiki and smiling at this the auburn haired girl rubbed the 
Amazon Enforcer's hand with her own.
	"So you no real sisters?" questioned Shampoo a bit confused 
as she looked from Ukyo to Natsume and Kurumi trying to determine 
if they were a threat to her relationship with Ukyo or not.
	"Technically we're not," said Natsume easily as she smiled 
warmly at Ukyo who beamed at her.
	"But in our hearts we are," finished Kurumi happily as she 
squeezed Ukyo's arm. "Little Ukyo is the only family we ever knew 
besides the Master."
	Smiling widely Ranma approached the pair and offered his 
hand as he said, "Well let me be the first to welcome you to Nerima. 
I'm Saotome Ranma, Ucchan's iinazuke." Cobalt eyes turned to 
Shampoo and pressing his hand against her back Ranma continued, 
"And this is Shampoo..." Trailing off Ranma mulled on what to say in 
description of their relationship with Shampoo then his face brightened 
considerably and he said simply, "Our Airen."
	"Truly?" questioned Natsume in quiet curiosity. Turning to 
Ukyo she said, "You have been the busy bee. Haven't you now?"
	"I guess," said Ukyo sheepishly as he rubbed the back of his 
oak brown head. Looking around at the still teeming crowd which 
was staring at the dojo group curiously Ukyo said, "Why don't we 
talk at home, you guys? It's a little more private..."
	"Indeed," said the low voice of Kuno as several of the dojo 
occupants jumped as he made his appearance. "This is hardly the 
place of discretion Kuonji Ukyo. It would be advisable to move your 
discussion to your domicile."
	"Tachi," said Ranma in disbelief. "Where the heck did you 
come from?"
	"My estate," replied Kuno dryly. "Where else would I be 
arriving from?"
	Shaking his dark black head Ranma said, "Forget it. I don't 
wanna know. Let's just go home... it looks like we have a lot of stuff 
to explain, huh Ucchan?"
	Returning his iinazuke's smile Ukyo replied, "Yeah. It sure 
looks like we do Ranchan."
	As the group moved together to exit the crowded park their 
voices intermingling as they questioned each other on the events of the 
day Nabiki shifted her hazel gaze to the ring only to find it empty. 
Mousse had disappeared.
	Seconds later a low rumble filled the air and looking towards 
the sky Nabiki saw it darken considerably as it then promptly began 
to pour down rain. Sighing at this Nabiki shrugged her shoulders and 
continued on her way back home. Somehow, even the rain seemed 
strangely fitting.

	The soggy forms of the dojo occupants were gathered in the 
sitting room to continue their discussion and drying Shampoo cat off 
with a towel Ukyo grumbled, "Figures that it'd rain. Stupid Nerima 
weather..."
	From where he sat in Akane's lap Ryoga piglet released an 
squeal which oddly seemed to agree with Ukyo's sentiments and 
smiling Akane dried off his head with a towel as she said, "It's okay 
Ryochan. We'll get you back you to your normal self in no time. You'll 
see."
	"Interesting," commented Natsume, as she took in all the 
cursed forms before her. "So not just little Ukyo and Ojisama 
Saotome have Jusenkyo curses, eh? When the Master first told us of 
your curses it was hard to believe until we saw it for ourselves..."
	"But we never thought that others would have them too!" 
exclaimed Kurumi in wonder. 
	"Yeah, well," said Ukyo dryly. "Seems like cursed training 
grounds are the hot place to hang out lately."
	"Ukyo," chided Kasumi as she walked into the sitting room 
holding a kettle of hot water. "Be nice..."
	"Sorry Kasumi," said Ukyo humbly, accepting the tea kettle 
from Kasumi and pouring it over Shampoo cat who quickly 
transformed back into her human state while filling out the clothes laid 
before her. Smiling at this change Ukyo questioned, "Feeling better 
Shamchan?"
	"Woda Airen!" was Shampoo's only reply as she tackled the 
lanky boy with a tight embrace which sent Ukyo toppling back onto 
the floor as she cuddled against his chest.
	Turning to her twin Natsume said lowly, "Do you remember 
what the Master told us about Amazons?"
	Nodding her head quietly Kurumi replied in whisper, "That 
they're dangerous and sneaky. Always be wary."
	"We do as the Master says," said Natsume softly.
	"Always," finished Kurumi solemnly in hushed tones.
	While Cologne was observing the twins with hooded eyes 
Ranma turned his attention to Kuno and asked, "What took you so 
long to get to the match, buddy? And where's Sakura and Dachi? We 
all waited for you guys at the dojo so you could get your free passes 
but you never showed and we had to leave without you."
	"I regret my lateness," said Kuno, as he bowed his head 
slightly. "But there was an event of a somewhat odd nature occurring 
at the Estate and I did not wish to leave until I was assured it was 
under control."
	"What's going on Kuno baby?" questioned Nabiki curiously 
as she scooted forward with Perfume at her side who frowned at her 
nickname being the same as this boy's.
	"To be perfectly honest Tendo Nabiki I am not positive of 
what occurs," said Kuno solemnly. "All I know is that before I left for 
your duel in the park Kurasawa Sakura was in the midst of her 
nineteenth hour of meditation."
	"Sakura?" said Ryoga quickly as he shifted back into his 
human form and adjusted his clothing. Moving forward he demanded, 
"What about Sakura? She's not hurt is she?"
	"She is in complete health," assured Kuno calmly, patting 
Ryoga's arm. "It is my sister whom I worry for. Kodachi has been 
most upset at Kurasawa-san's need to meditate for such a long period 
of time. I myself admit to finding it a bit... disturbing. And you all must 
recognize the humorous detail in myself having such a reaction."
	"Aw," said Ranma in his usual good nature as he lightly 
punched Kuno's shoulder. "Don't be like that man. You're back to 
your normal self and that's all that matters. Just forget about the past... 
we already have."
	Smiling softly Kuno replied, "My thanks to you old friend. 
Always."
	"Little Ukyo," the cool voice of Natsume cut through the air 
and everyone looked her way. "Perhaps you might now inform us of 
your current situation..."
	"And why you're still in your male form? Why don't you 
change back to a girl?" questioned Kurumi puzzled.
	There was a long moment of silence when simultaneously all 
the dojo occupants turned their heads towards the grim figure of 
Cologne. And observing this the twins found the loud crash of thunder 
which followed this action oddly appropriate for the current mood in 
the air.

	Darkness. 
	Everywhere darkness.
	It seemed like darkness was the path for Kuno Kodachi's life 
but then she met a girl named Kurasawa Sakura and suddenly her 
path changed. It brightened and expanded in it's possibilities and 
Kodachi found that darkness no longer ruled her heart and mind.
	Only now it seemed as if that darkness was now claiming 
Sakura and Kodachi did not know what to do to stop it. Nineteen 
hours... for nineteen hours now Sakura had been meditating alone. 
And nothing that Kodachi did was able to break Sakura's 
concentration and return her to the land of the living.
	Sighing Kodachi walked down the dimly lighted hallways 
towards the dojo where she knew Sakura would still remain in her 
meditative state. Despite the chills her love's present state brought 
down her spine Kodachi would be at her side to help her through this 
lapse of spirit just as Sakura had always been there for her.
	After all, thought Kodachi as she pushed open the doors to 
the dojo, is that not why she moved here with me? To be with one 
who might understand her increasingly bizarre actions and accept 
them with a heart full of love?
	Sliding back the door fully Kodachi gasped on seeing the 
dojo empty and her love no where in sight. Numbly walking into the 
middle of the room Kodachi said in a barest whisper, "Sakura 
darling?"

	"Freedom," pronounced a voice in husky tones that was soon 
followed by a low chuckle. "Centuries trapped in that damned spring 
and now... finally. Freedom."
	The person which said this was clad in the same worn school 
uniform that Sakura often donned but was clearly not the street fighter 
from the sheer height in her appearance. The woman was well over 
six feet tall and sported a head of long silken white hair which fell in 
streams down her backside. She tilted her head back as to allow the 
downpour of rain to hit her face and laughing at this she extended her 
arms towards the heavens above.
	Seconds later the oni known as Ganglot rose in the air to float 
with certain ease as she contemplated the body she had been trapped 
in the past few months. It was a healthy form, that much was for 
certain, but that was not the reason she had drawn the girl known as 
Kurasawa Sakura into the spring she had been magically encased in.
	No... Ganglot did not merely have escape on her mind when 
she drew Sakura to her. She knew of the girl's status in life and whom 
she acquainted with. And for those reasons Ganglot chose Sakura as 
her intended vessel. And while freedom was Ganglot's goal it was 
only a stepping stone in the greater plan she had hatched.
	And now freedom had finally arrived. All because Sakura 
could no longer fight off her increasing attempts for control which 
allowed Ganglot to finally win dominance over her mind. After hours 
of internal battle under the guise of meditating Ganglot was in control 
and it was all thanks to a single person. Her most loyal disciple over 
the centuries and the man who had unconsciously been the cause of 
her imprisonment in that Jusenkyo spring.
	"Happosai," said Ganglot lowly. A slow smile spreading 
across her features the rain pelted down on her revealed fangs. "The 
energy summoned by your return has set me free... and now it's time 
that I call in that little favor you owe me." Suddenly a crash of thunder 
sounded and Ganglot lifted a hand high into the air to collect the 
charge of a striking bolt of lightning.
	Crushing the energy in her grip so it might flow through her 
body Ganglot chuckled and said, "Freedom is finally mine Cologne. 
And soon... death will be yours."

To be continued... 

All characters in this fanfiction are from Ranma 1/2. With the 
exceptions of: Belldandy, Keiichi, and Urd who are from Oh My 
Goddess!; Sakura from Street Fighter; Keiko Arigami and Ryonami 
are borrowed from A Very Scary Thought by Jim Robert Bader; 
Perfume is borrowed from the Most Unlikely Of Friends by Wade 
Tritschler and Ganglot is an original creation by yours truly. This 
fanfiction was inspired by the works of the great goddess Rumiko 
Takahashi, Wade Tritschler, Jim Robert Bader, and many other cool 
folks. 

Send comments to: Dreiser1@ix.netcom.com

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Next up:
Demons and goddesses and perverts, oh my! Life isn't going well in 
the magical land of Nerima and it will take more than a trip down the 
yellow brick road to fix things.

"Any promises we make are as easy to break as those plastic people 
on top of a wedding cake." -Johnette Napolitano-