[The MST theatre. Sitting in the front row are a blue haired teenage girl
(about 
14) in fairly ordinary clothing. To her right sits a young man in a long
green robe,
and finally next to him is a tall man in a black cape with long silver hair. An
extremely long katana rests against the seat next to him.]

Rarstarr: Hi folks. We're back after a long period of absence, here to
entertain
	you with wacky comments and observations on yet another excellent
	fanfic. As always I'm Rarstarr, author at large, and with me are Amy,
	from the ever popular Sailor Moon...
Amy: (nods) Hello all.
Rarstarr: ... and Sephiroth, the villain from Final Fantasy 7.
Sephiroth: (also nods) Honored.
Amy: Where's Nabiki? (indicates the empty seat next to her)
Rarstarr: (shrugs) No idea.

[There is a loud metallic hum and a tall woman with cyan hair flickers into 
existance above the seat. She slowly floats down and ends up stretched 
out on the seat.]

Ryoko: (grinning) She's busy!
Rarstarr: (rolls eyes) Okay. Looks like I get the pleasure of introducing
Ryoko, 
	space pirate and demon, from the Tenchi series.
Ryoko: So what are we looking at today?
Rarstarr: One of the offshoots of "The Bet" called Ranma's Father. The
story so far
	is that during the Wishbringer Sword story arc Ranma actually gets Kuno's
	final wish, only can't use it to cure his curse. Instead he accidentally
wishes
	Genma wasn't his father. Moments later a demon appears and tells them
	that one Bruce Wayne has just discovered that he has a son in Nerima.
Amy: Three guesses who that is.
Rarstarr: (nods) Exactly. Anyway, it appears that Nodoka had an affair with
said
	millionaire, and Ranma was the result.
Sephiroth: Enough with the back story, let's get moving.

It's complete!

Chapter three coming soon.

Rarstarr: Best news I've heard in a while. I thought this story had died like
	most of the Bet stories.

Ranma's Father 

The Start of the Knightmare...
Part 2

All: (groan)
Ryoko: Are the puns always so terrible?

>From the series, The Bet, initiated by Gregg Sharp, Metroanime@aol.com
http://members.aol.com/greggsharp/index.html

Original concept by Gregg Sharp under the name RANdom.
Revised concept by Gregg Sharp by request

Grey is copyright by ?

A fan fiction based on Takahashi Rumiko's Manga and Video series, Ranma 1/2

Saotome Ranma, Saotome Genma, Saotome Nodoka, Tendo Akane, Tendo Soun, Tendo 
Kasumi, Tendo Nabiki, Kuonji Ukyou, Hibiki Ryouga, P-chan, Shampoo, Mousse, 
Kuno Tatewaki, Kuno Kodachi, are copyright 1987, 1999 by Takahashi Rumiko. 

Publishing rights:

Japan:		Shogakukan Inc. Tokyo
Hong Kong:	Jademan (Holdings) Ltd.
North America:	Viz Inc.

Also based upon the Batman series created by Gil Kane

Bruce Wayne, Batman, Batgirl, Robin, Nightwing, Richard Grayson, Alfred 
Pennyworth, Commissioner James Gordon, Barbara Gordon, Catwoman, Selina 
Kyle, Joker, Two-face, and Timothy Drake are copyright 1936, 1999 by DC 
Comics, and Time-Warner Entertainment. 

Publishing rights: 

North America:	Direct Current Comics

By Jessica Samolson and Ichinohei Hitomi

***

Tokyo, Japan

	There were many words that could be used to describe the weather that 
covered the vast city on this day.  Overcast, cloudy, or dulled would have 
been generous given the underlying feel of heaviness due to the moisture.  
Gloomy, dark, heavily weighing, or perhaps even frightening would have 
better described what people felt that day.

Sephiroth: Not to mention smoggy, oppresive, and downright miserable.
Amy: Hey, this is my home town you're talking about!

	However, none of that mattered to the foreigner that had just come off of a 
private plane only a few minutes before.
	Bruce Wayne, billionaire American industialist whose various interest 
spanned the globe, looked at the very modern city that sprawled out before 
him.  One place in a country that was as much his home as Gotham City was.  
It was here that he learned patience, calm, and gained an inkling of the 
true abilities the human mind and body had, if put to the test.  Nihon had 
given him a sense of peace that he had been missing until he came here at 
Alfred's insistance.
	Bruce never found out what Alfred's reasons for sending here were, or how 
he was able to arrange so many things.  He supposed it had to do with his 
past in the British Secret Service, but it would not explain how many 
contacts his butler/mentor had.  There were times when he wondered how much 
of his life was dictated by the oportunities that Alfred had provided.

Ryoko: British Secret Service? Wow?
Rarstarr: Why can I just see him in a James Bond role?
Sephiroth: It is unlikely he was that kinf of spy.

	Very few people would have indulged his varied interests as Alfred had, or 
given him the oportunity to come to Japan.  Bruce was drawn to his chosen 
life like a moth to the flame despite being presented with his greatest 
challenge.  A life as an ordinary person, without money, without special 
favours, and without everything that life could offer.
	He had grown into a strong, independant person here, and gained an 
appreciation for life once again.  It was not from being in this city, or 
even from the others he had met in school.  Instead it was in a place that 
seemed more ancient than could be acounted for.  A place that seemed removed 

>from time, and ageless.  There, in that small dojo, Bruce had come to 

appreciate all the small things living had to offer.  During that time, 
Bruce also earned the respect, and love, of the third man he had ever 
considered a father to him.

Sephiroth: If anyone does a "My Two Dads" joke, they'll feel the wrong end of
	my katana.

	Those idilyc days were not to last however.
	The mission that he had taken upon himself as a youth, to become the 
greatest of all crimefighters, caused him to eventually turn his back on the 
peace and solace that he had discovered.  It was one of the saddest days in 
his life when Bruce had informed the Sensei that he had to leave. It pained 
him that the old man had never said a word against his leaving.  If he had 
given even the slightest sign that he had wanted Bruce to stay with him 
history would have been much different.  Bruce had cried privately that day, 
much like he had cried when his parents were killed so many years before.  
On that day, he died a second time.

Rarstarr: Only five more and he'll have beaten Superman.
Amy: How can you joke about this kind of thing?
Rastarr: It's my defense mechanism.

	But even that paled in comparison with what had happened a few days later, 
when he met with the one woman in the world that he had fallen in love with. 
The one woman that he stilled loved with his entire soul.
	Masaki Nodoka.

Rarstarr: MASAKI?!
Ryoko: As in Tenchi?
Amy: (glares at Ryoko) You would think of that.

	She was the daughter of his Sensei whom Bruce had met after one of his 
private practice sessions.  At the time, he had just joined the Dojo, and 
was working extremely hard to learn all he would need in the shortest period 
of time possible.  Bruce felt that if he failed to learn as fast as 
possible, another would suffer as he had, and his vow, and all of the honour 
that he had staked upon that vow, would be as naught.
	Nodoka started practicing with her bokken, moving clearly, precisely, and 
practically, and using techniques that he had thought were the realm of 
fiction.  This woman was not only a skilled martial artist, but she had a 
lot to teach him, if not the world.  Then again, not many people still used 
swords, and no one that he knew of had her facility with them.  He had asked 
her for lessons, and his facination with her grew until they began to date.

Amy: And instead she married Genma? I find that hard to believe.
Rarstarr: Patience, all will be explained.

	Few people outside of the Dojo knew who he was or where he was from, but 
they had accepted the foreign looking sixteen year old because of Nodoka, 
and the reputation he had.  Of course, his life wasn't completely smooth.  
Although he had gained many friends, Bruce also succeeded in attracting a 
few rivals as well.  Nodoka was highly sought after, not only because of her 
beauty, but that of her own line of descent from a family of the nobility.  
Having to fight almost every day on the way to and from school was not one 
of his most pleasant memories.

All: (laugh)
Sephiroth: Well, looks like that runs in the family.

	It was also fortunate that he had gone under an adopted name while he was 
in Japan.  After all, Bruce Wayne was a rich foreign idler who dabbled in 
the arts now and then while Tsukino Ran was considered the future heir of 
the Masaki Dojo.  It wouldn't have been prudent to have Bruce Wayne winning 
fights, or the information being recorded somewhere, unless he wanted to be 
open about all of his abilities.  As Ran, he had a reputation to keep as the 
best martial artist in the area.
	He still remembered that day from so long ago....

Twenty years earlier...

	He was ready to leave, to continue training in order to start his chosen 
mission in life...
	...and he was so nervous about meeting with Nodoka that his palms were 
sweating.
	Bruce sighed, looking over all of the equipment and belongings that were 
here, from the case containing the swords that he had earned, to the small 
cabinet that contained mementos of the life he had led.  Given how little he 
had come here with, it amazed him that he could collect so much in such a 
short time.  It had only been five years, and he had been training for most 
of it, so how HAD he managed to buy so much?

Amy: Something everyone wonders from time to time.
Rarstarr: Especially when their bank account runs dry.

	Shrugging his shoulders, he went to the main hall of the house.  Tonight 
would be the last time he saw Nodoka for a long time, perhaps even the rest 
of his life, and he dread telling her that.  She wasn't the sort to be 

Amy: "dreaded telling her"

willing to disappear in the background, nor was she the type to let him face 
danger by himself.  He had learned that the hard way.
	Of course, when it came to Nodoka, he had learned a lot of things the hard 
way, including to avoid her when she was angry for any reason.  It really 
didn't do his reputation any good when he was forced to run from her 
practice swords.  Few people outside of the Dojo knew how accurate she could 
be with them.

Rarstarr: But only because they'd never faced her anger.

	Gulping a bit, he decided to check his wallet, knowing he'd need every yen 
he had.  /If I wined and dined her, as people say, perhaps I can come out of 
this without any bruises.  Fortunately, uncle Alfred makes sure that I have 
a good allowance./

Sephiroth: It won't be enough.

	"Ran-kun, is something the matter?" a slightly musical voice called out to 
him.
	Bruce quickly put his wallet away, and looked towards the voice, and then 
took a few seconds to gape openly at his girlfriend.  For some reason that 
he was unaware of, Nodoka had gone all out.  Absolutely everything about her 
spoke of beauty, grace, and elegance.  The dress she wore, the way her hair 
was styled, even the sparkle in her eyes.

Ryoko: (whistles) This one is HUNTING! And what a catch she's out for.
Amy: I think she expects a certain question.

	He looked down at himself, in his usual loose black pants and pull on top, 
and then back up.  "Ahhh...Nodoka-chan, can you give me a few minutes?"
	Nodoka smirked quietly to herslf as Ran walked quickly back towards his 
room.  /You would think that he would get dressed up for once, especially 
given how nervous he's been for the past week.  I know he's going to ask me 
tonight, and after the two of us get married, daddy can retire and Ran and I 
will take over the Dojo./

All: (facefault)
Sephiroth: Uh-oh.

	Her eyes glittered even more as she thought of how lucky she was to find 
such a handsome young man.  While others would have rejected him due to his 
mixed blood, it only made him seem more exotic to her.  Ran was the perfect 
man for her.  Skilled in the Art, strong, willing to fight and learn from 
her, and best yet, dedicated to protecting the reputation of her fathers 
dojo.  It was no wonder her father looked at Ran as his heir.
	She knew about the private meeting that the two of them had a few days 
before, and had guessed that it would be about Ran asking her fathers 
permission to marry her.  At least that was what it had _better_ have been 
about.  If Ran didn't ask her to marry him tonight, there would be hell for 
him to pay until he did.

Rarstarr: Run Ran run.
Sephiroth: Do you know how stupid that sounded?

	It was at that moment that Ran came back into the room, his body defined by 
the well cut tuxedo that he wore.  While you couldn't usually tell where the 
muscles were on a person, Nodoka could see the muscle definition on him, and 
his light walk was a clear indication of his fighting prowess.  A fine catch 
indeed.
	Bruce gulped as he observed Nodoka smile in that way of hers that made him 
nervous.  He _KNEW_ that smile meant trouble, especially since he had seen 
it several times before.  Usually before she followed him on his little 
training sessions, or when she wanted something.
	Unconsiously he felt for his wallet and checkbook.  It was either going to 
be a very expensive, or very long night.  Probably both.

Ryoko: Yes, hospitals can be very expensive.

***

	Bruce looked at Nodoka nervously, wondering what was going on in her mind.  
Up to now, the whole evening had been very strange and somewhat surreal.  
First the two of them being dressed up, then her not making a fuss when they 
went to the only fancy restaurant that he could easily afford, and finally 
no one bothering them, or coming at them and shouting for him to defend 
himself.  No, he was dreaming.  That had to be it.

Amy: Wow, he really sounds like Ranma.

	"Ran-kun, what's wrong?"  Nodoka asked as she noted his nervousness, and 
him keep putting his hands into his lap.  There had been so many 
opportunities for him to ask her, and he kept putting it off.  To think that 
the best fighter of their generation was that scared of marriage was a 
little funny.

Sephiroth: Hmm. So that's where Ranma got his fear of commitment.
Rarstarr: Makes for a good arguement of nature not nuture.

	Bruce gulped.  This was it.  He had to keep his voice steady, keep himself 
centered and calm, and most of all, watch out for her bokken.  Although he 
had never seen how she did it, Nodoka had a habit of pulling that thing out, 
even when he was sure that it wasn't on her.  "Nodoka-chan, I..I've got to 
tell you something very important.  I've already discussed it with your 
father, and you should hear this from me."
	Nodoka's eyes lit up as she learned forward.  This was it, the question 
that she had been waiting for him to ask for almost three years now.  "Go 
on, Ran-chan."
	Bruce suddenly got a lot more nervous as she leaned forward.  Her cleavage 
was now very noticable, and that look of possessiveness in her eyes scared 
him.  Whatever was going on in her head, it definately wasn't about him 
leaving.  "I...I...I...I was wondering if you wanted to go to a movie after 
dinner."

All: (facefault)
Sephiroth: Not what I expected.
Amy: Same with Nodoka

	Nodoka closed her eyes and leaned back into her chair.  Ran chickened out 
again, and it was going to take forever to get him to ask.  If he didn't ask 
her during or after the movie, then she wasn't going to wait any longer.  
/I'll ask him myself, and if he doesn't reply right away, I'll drag him down 
to the records building myself.  One way or another, Ran is going to marry 
_me_!/

***

	It had been a great movie.  Bruce wasn't sure where they had found it, but 
seeing the one feature length adventure of his favourite hero, 'The Grey 
Ghost' was great.  The perfect way to top off an evening.
	Nodoka, on the other hand, was bored.  She would have prefered to go to the 
romance film playing in the next theatre, but Ran took one look at the movie 
poster and bought the tickets before she could say a word.  And from the 
looks of it, he had forgotten what he was going to ask her!  "Ran-chan..."
	Bruce stopped, gulped, and looked at his girlfriend.  She was annoyed, and 
he had forgotten to tell her about what he was going to do.  "Nodoka-chan, 
I...I.."

Rarstarr: (Bruce voice) ...am Batman!
Ryoko: (Nodoka voice) Who darling? I've never heard of this Batman.
Rarstarr: (Bruce voice) DOH! I haven't started yet!

	Nodoka huffed, "Tsukino Ran, I've been waiting all evening, and I've had 
it.  Answer one question.  Are.  You.  Going.  To.  Marry.  Me?"
	Bruce continued on, not even realizing the question, except on the 
periphery of his awareness.  "Well...You see...My training....I've got 
to...WHAT DID YOU SAY!!!"
	Nodoka grabbed the shoulders of her boyfriend who's eyes had widened to an 
almost unimaginable degree.  "I said, 'Will you marry me?'  It's a simple 
question with a simple answer.  Yes or no."
	"I..I...I..."
	She grabbed him, and started pulling him towards home.  In the morning 
she'd take him to the government offices and make sure that they were 
married.  Besides, it was the best thing for both of them.
	Being forced to walk caused Bruce to stop stuttering.  "Nodoka-chan.  I 
can't marry you."

Sephiroth: I wonder if she needs a blade? Mine's handy.

	Nodoka stopped, turned around, and glared at him.  "WHAT!"
	Bruce gulped.  "I'm going training.  In China.  And I'm not sure when, or 
if I'll be back.  I'll try to come back as soon as possible, but..."

Rarstarr: (Jusenkyo Guide voice) Oh Mr Customer, you fall in spring of
drowned bat...
Sephiroth: Shouldn't that be the spring of drowned attractive-female-fruit-bat
	from Ranma 2096?

	He never got to finish the sentence since he ended up unconscious thanks to 
a bokken that came out of nowhere.

Sephiroth: Ah, she already had one.

Present Day...

	Nodoka frowned to herself as she remembered what Bruce-kun had said.  If 
she hadn't been so quick to anger, so quick to try to forget, then she would 
never have married Genma.  It had turned out the man had married her for her 
fathers properties and the money that they would bring.  After a few years, 
Genma had succeeded in squandering several million yen.

Ryoko: (wolf whistle) Does that man know how to spend or what?
Amy: And we find out why she married him. In spite.

	But that had not been the worst part.
	It had only been about a six months after her marriage when Bruce came 
back.  It had barely been a year since he had left, and when he met her once 
more, did not know of the marriage.  Bruce had come back from his training 
much earlier than expected, and with only one thing in his mind.  Proposing.
	Seeing the pain on his face and in his eyes when she told him about Genma 
was the worst experience in her life.
	Now, after all these years, everything could finally be put right.  Her 
child, Bruce's child would survive and live.  He would take up the mantle 
that was meant for him, and take up his fathers business.  Ranma would 
become the next teacher of her fathers school.
	She, of course, would not be there to see it.

All: WHAT?!

	For the shame she had brought upon her family by marrying Genma and 
allowing him the freedom that she had, there was only one honourable recourse.
	The private elevator dinged and she saw Bruce entering with a young woman 
and a boy.  Both of them had training in the martial arts, but failed at 
hiding it well.  These would be two of Bruce's partners, Batgirl and Robin.

All: (facefault)
Amy: She knows?

	Bruce was looking straight at the woman he loved and left the others with 
the bags, "Nodoka-chan.  It's been so long."
	Nodoka gently touched Bruce's hand.  "Yes, too long.  We have much to talk 
about, and so little time to do so."
	Bruce led her to a room where they could have some privacy, "We have the 
rest of our lives together.  Years to get to know one another again."
	"No Bruce-kun," Nodoka said in a small, sad voice.  "We do not have much 
time together, and I must make sure that my son is well before I do what I 
have to."
	Bruce was becoming worried, starting to get what was on Nodoka's mind, and 
praying that he was wrong.  She couldn't be contemplating Seppuku over that 
fool of a man she had married, could she?  "Nodoka-chan, Ranma will have the 
best of everything as will you.  You are the woman I love, the one I have 
always loved.  Whatever is wrong, we will find a way to correct it."

Amy: Money doesn't buy honor Bruce.

	Nodoka smiled gently.  Ran was still the same, so very honourable, and so 
strong.  "Bruce-kun, there isn't anything that we can do to change what must 
be.  Genma must be punished properly.  He must face the sword, and I will 
find him no matter where he hides now.  When he lies dead, then my time on 
Earth will be done."
	"There has to be another way, some manner of restitution.  The man may not 
have any honour, but what was done to you was his fault.  Your honour is 
clean, the clan and the school are clean.  There is no need for Seppuku."
	"And the failure that I've been to our son?  Bruce-kun there is only one 
way to redeem myself, and this is it."  She said levelly and without 
emotion.  "Would you deny me my honour?"

Sephiroth: And is it honourable to allow your son to face a new life with a
father he
	doesn't know having just had his entire family commit seppuku?

	Bruce kept his face dispationate.  He would have to come up with a way, any 
way, to stop her, but he couldn't figure out how.  If he tried anything 
physically, it wouldn't help.  He would have to think of something that she 
could do, redeem herself in her eyes in another way.  "I will find another 
honourable means for you to regain your honour.  Please, allow me a chance 
to do that."
	Nodoka nodded, and they began to discuss many things, including how to deal 
with their son and tell him the truth.

Rarstarr: What happened to Batgirl and Robin?
Sephiroth: They spent the whole time dealing with the bags.

The next day...

	It was a beautiful day.  The skies were clear, the day was warm, and 
everything seemed almost right with the world.  Today, Bruce would meet his 
son.

Amy: And his life would never be the same.

	Of course, anyone who was looking for millionaire Bruce Wayne would have 
hardly recognized him.  Being back in Japan, and since he wanted to spend 
the day remembering his youth, Bruce dressed as he did when he was younger.  
A pair of soft black Chinese slippers, loose black pants, and a plain pull 
on top.  Even his face had an animation that was missing when he was seen 
back in the States.  Barbara and Tim couldn't believe the complete change 
that had come over the stern and unemotional man that they were familiar with.

Ryoko: What is it with this guy? He's dressing like Ranma!

	They also couldn't believe that Bruce had opted to take the bus and walk 
most of the way.
	As they approached the Tendo Dojo, Bruce said, "Are you ready for this 
Nodoka-chan?"
	Nodoka smilled back at Bruce.  "I'm ready Ran-kun.  It's been much too 
long, and given what I now know of how Genma has raised our son, it's time 
to set things right.  I hope you're ready to meet little 'Ranko-chan'."

Amy: She knows?
Sephiroth: And Ranma still lives?

	Bruce raised one of his eyebrows, "Not even a day, and you're already 
calling me Ran again."
	She laughed cheerilly, "Ran-kun, that's how I first knew you.  To me, 
that's who you'll always be.  I don't see Bruce Wayne when I look at you.  
The person I see is Tsukino Ran, the nervous, brave, and strong warrior."
	Behind them, Tim looked at Barbara.  "<Do you understand anything that's 
going on?>"
	Barbara shook her head to try and clear it.  "<Not really.>"

Rarstarr: What do you expect, you're both sidekicks.

***

	Ranma was in his room, still trying to come to grips with the revelations 
of a few days ago.  Still trying to come to grips with the fact that all of 
his engagements were cancelled, even the supposed one with Shampoo.  The old 
ghoul had formally disolved the kiss of marriage for which Mousse was 
eternally happy.  For some reason, Ranma believed that it would only make 
her and Shampoo try harder.  He shuddered involuntarily at the thought.  He 
wasn't ready to get married yet.

Sephiroth: And how did that happen?
Rarstarr: If Genma isn't Ranma's father, he can't engage him to anyone.
Shampoo's
	marriage was cancelled because the old ghoul wants to be on Bruce's good
	side.

	Getting up, he decided to go down to the kitchen to get a snack, not really 
concentrating on anything.  Everything was changing around him and while 
some of it was for the better, it was still disheartening.  Ever since he 
got to the Dojo, he had a stability that he had never known before.  And 
there were people, other than Genma, that he cared about.

Amy: Stability? In Nerima?
Rarstarr: That's like describing a rock concert as peaceful.
Ryoko: Hate to see Ranma's life before he arrived at the Tendo Dojo.

	He frowned, did he really care about Genma?  True, the man wasn't his real 
father, but he was the one who had raised him and thought him about the Art. 
Ranma decided he would always think of him as a father, even if he wasn't.
	"Oh, Hello Ranma-kun.  Is there something I can help you with?"  Kasumi's 
voice said.
	Looking up, he smiled at her, a genuine one.  She was the only person who 
knew that hadn't treated him any differently.  "Oh, I was only going to get 
a small snack, oneechan."
	Kasumi nodded, "You can have one of the nikkuman I'm making for when your 
mother comes by latter."
	Ranma's eyes bulged, and he rushed to the tap.  "Mom's coming here?  Today?"
	"Oh my.  Your mother called yesterday and said she was going to be here 
with some guests today.  I was so busy preparing that I forgot to tell you." 
Kasumi said appologetically.
	Ranko nodded her head, "It's alright Kasumi-oneechan."

Ryoko: Yeah, at least you said before they arrived.

	At that moment, someone knocked at the entrance, and a familiar voice 
called out.  "Hello, is anyone home?"
	Kasumi looked around, seeing how much she still had to prepare.  
"Ranko-chan.  Could you please answer that?"
	Ranko gulped and said, "OK."
	When she answered the door, she was surprised, "Hi, auntie Nodoka.  How are 
you and who's this with ya."
	Nodoka frowned.  She and Ran had agreed to let 'Ranko' deal with matters 
for a little while before they confronted her with their knowledge.  She 
would never think of taking the life of her child for an accident that 
occured while training, but it still angered her that Ranma had not told her 
of this before.  That damned contract that Genma had pushed on her caused 
the both of them more grief than it was worth.

Amy: Oh, nice twist there. So Genma was lying about who wanted the contract.

	"Ranko-chan, please be polite."  She turned to introduce the people with 
her.  "Tendo Ranko, I would like to introduce an old friend of mine, Tsukino 
Ran, and his friends from America, Barabara Gordon, and Timothy Drake."
	Ranko bowed to them and then said, "Please come in and be welcome in our 
house."
	Ran bowed back, "I am happy to meet you Tendo-san, and bid everyone in this 
house good tidings."
	Barbara and Tim also bowed, imitating Bruce.  Although she spoke fluent 
Japanese,  she decided to keep quiet.  It was amazing to see Ranma in person 
however, despite being warned by Alfred on what to expect.

Rarstarr: And it's those comments that show why Alfred is so useful.

	After being introduced to Kasumi, they took seats at the table.  Nodoka 
asked her usual question about Ranma and got her usual answer.  Sighing she 
said, "I was hoping that he would be here instead of on another trip.  
Before Ran-chan goes back to America, I was hoping to introduce the two of 
them.  He is the person I named Ranma after."
	Ranko perked up a bit, "You named Ranma after Ran-san?"
	Nodoka smilled at her daughter, "Yes, and since Ran-chan was my fathers 
choice for taking over the family dojo, I wanted to see how they would spar 
together."

Rarstarr: "father's choice"

	Ranko looked over at the older gentleman, who was dressed quite a bit like 
herself, although with western style clothing instead of Chinese.  "So, 
you're a martial artist?  How good are you?"
	Ran smiled mysteriously, "Quite good, young lady.  I've trained in a lot of 
places, and can easily say that I've yet to be completely defeated.  No 
matter what, I come back stronger than ever."
	The young girl snorted, "I bet ya can't take me on."
	Ran's smile widened, "No offence, Ranko.  I don't think a girl who stays at 
home would be able to take on someone like me."
	Despite everything, Ranko said, "Oh yeah?  I can take you on anyday.  I've 
been practicing the art my entire life, and I can't be beat when it counts."

Sephiroth: "when it counts" sounds like Kuno to me.
Rarstarr: In other words, it only counts when he wins.

	"So you say."
	"How about we spar a bit, and I'll show ya," Ranko said.  No way was this 
old guy better than her.  Hell, she was better than the old man and 
Happosai, and was also able to fight the ghoul to a standstill.
	Ran chuckled, "All right.  Shall we go to the dojo?"
	Ranko snorted, "How 'bout we fight over the koi pond.  That way the one who 
loses gets dunked."

Amy: Where else. I'm surprised there are any Koi left in that pond.
Rarstarr: And let's not mention the everchanging depth.

	Nodoka's face took on a stern look.  "Ranko, please watch your language."
	The girl blushed.  "Ah..Sorry about that auntie Nodoka.  I'll try to do 
better."
	Ran had already gone outside and was waiting for Ranko near the pond.  "How 
many times do I have to dunk you?"
	Ranko smirked to herself.  "Let's take it easy.  We'll go until I put you 
in the pond once."
	Ran bowed to her and took up his stance, left hand open and a little way in 
front of his face and the right one down close to his waist, facing 
forwards.  He started to slowly circle the pond.
	Ranko simply took off and leapt over the pond, expecting to land behind him 
and then do a foot sweep to make him fall in.  She was amazed when he stoped 
moving, shifted his weight slightly, and used his foot to cause her to fall 
in herself.  Coming up sputtering, she got on the other side of Ran.  "OK, I 
underestimated ya once.  It won't happen again."

All: (snigger)
Ryoko: Cocky, ain't he.

	Taking it more catiously, Ranko also began circle the pond, and at an 
unheard signal they both leapt above the water, striking and defending 
themselves at the same time, testing each others reactions and skills, and 
holding a lot back.  She was surprised that he had managed to counter each 
of her blows.  She also noticed that he was holding back a lot since his 
strikes contained very little power.  "Come on, fight me.  That's what we're 
doing."
	Ran's mouth formed a thin line.  "I don't fight girls."

Ryoko: STOP IT WITH THE PARALLELS ALREADY!!
Amy: I don't know, its kind of cute.
Rarstarr: Wait a sec, if he doesn't fight girls, how does he explain Cat-woman,
	Poison Ivy and all the other female criminals?

	Ranko's face flushed, "Hey, I'm just as good as any boy!"
	"Not from where I stand."
	Angered, Ranko decided to take the fight up a notch, attacking more and 
trying to get kicks and punches in.  Unfortunately, Ran not only blocked 
everything she was throwing, he was looking bored.  He wasn't even bothering 
to punch back even when he had the opportunity.
	/Arrghh!  How do I fight this guy when he won't fight back?/  She thought 
to herself as she tried to punch at him again, /He ain't so tough, but he's 
slippery.  I gotta put him into the pond./
	Try as she might however, Ran just evaded her blows, and in one evasion, 
she ended up dunked in the pond again.
	This went on five more times before Ran said, "Had enough yet?"
	"That's it!  I ain't gonna take this!"  Ranko said before she shot up out 
of the pond and used the Katsu Tenshin Amagurikan to strike at her fastest 
speed.  Forcing him back, she noticed that the old guy was now taking her 
seriously.  The fight remained even for five more minutes before she was 
finally able to force him into the pond.  Unfortunately, it wasn't due to 
her own efforts since he had slipped on a wet rock.

Sephiroth: A victory is still a victory.

	"Well, it looks like I was finally dunked," Ran said as he came out of the 
pond, a bit of laughter in his eyes, "I guess that this sparing match is

over."

	He bowed and left her fuming in the yard.  She wanted another match, and 
there wasn't a way to get one now.  It was frustrating, it was angering.  He 
was treating her like a little girl!
	"<Wow, Bruce!  I didn't know anyone could fight like that.  I like her!  Do 
ya think she'd be willing to come back ta Gotham with us, because I wouldn't 
mind dating her.>"
	Nodoka listened to the young boy sitting beside her on the porch talking to 
Ran and started to giggle slightly.  Barbara, who had also heard, started 
herself, and soon both women were laughing hard, while Bruce had an eyebrow 
raised at the two of them.  Nodoka was finally able to gasp, "<Young man, I 
think you should talk to me.  I am \her\ mother after all.>"
	Tim looked at her, and then back at the red headed girl fuming in the 
garden, going after the Panda that had just come in through the gate.  
"<Cool!  Do ya think she'd be willing to come back to America with us?>"

Sephiroth: Well, someone's not paying attention.

	Barbara who was just calming down a little, broke off into further gales of 
laughter.
	"<I think we may be able to persuade her, but let's talk about this later 
when everyone else arrives.>"  Bruce told his young ward.  Having tested his 
child's skill, he was pleased to note that Ranma had fierce will to survive 
and conquer.  Some of his moves were sloppy in this form, but that could be 
improved upon.  Perhaps he could impose upon Cologne to train Ranma further, 
especially since she was in the area.

Ryoko: Ummm, I'm worried. IMPOSE on Cologne?

***

	Nabiki came home humming to herself, happy to have gotten a lot of the 
paperwork out of the way.  It had been easy to arrange a transfer out of 
Furinkan given the abnormalities of the place, starting with the Head 
Master.  The one stipulation that they had, her being able to complete the 
Juken at the appropriate time, was perfectly agreeable.  If her plans didn't 
work out, then she would be able to come back home and complete her studies 
in a proper university.

Amy: I wonder where she's going?
Sephiroth: If you can't guess, you're an anime character.

	She had also succeeded in arranging the purchase of a house instead of an 
appartment, having seriously overestimated the amount that she would need.  
Nabiki would still be able to go to school, afford a proper home near the 
Wayne estate, and play the American stock market.  She had a lot more 
purchasing power than she had imagined.

Rarstarr: Ah, Nabiki the super businessman. Interesting idea, I wonder
	where everyone gets it from, she was never that good in the manga.
Sephiroth: Everyone needs a hobby.
Rarstarr: Yes, but who would take the money of a seventeen year old and
	invest it that way?

	By this time next week, she would be in Gotham city, ready to start 
persuing two subjects at the same time.  A degree in economics and Ranma 
Wayne.  While the first was important to her future, it could wait until she 
got the object of her desire.
	Nabiki actually blushed at the thought of Ranma's body when she started to 
think of him in a romantic sense.  She shook her head.  /What am I thinking? 
Ranma making me blush?  I'm only doing this in order to get control of a 
fortune, not to actually fall in love with the naive lug.  All I am going to 
do is use the honour arrangement to get my foot in the door that's all.  It 
isn't like I find Ranma handsome, honourable, nice, kind, generous, lovable, 
or any of those other adjectives.  No, I'm the ice queen, not some 
simpering, love-sick little girl.  No way, Tendo Nabiki is made of sterner 
stuff than that./

Ryoko: Yeah, right. We all believe you.

	When she opened the door, Nabiki was surprised to see Bruce Wayne sitting 
at her family table next to aunt Nodoka.  "He..hello everyone.  How was your 
day?"
	Ranko's face showed frustration, Mr. Panda was playing with his ball, Akane 
was smirking at Ranma, and Soun's face was a little serious.  "Very well, 
Nabiki.  I was just discussing matters of the art with Tsukino-san.  It 
seems he was able to defeat Ranko-chan very easily earlier today."
	Nabiki blinked and looked at around.  No, no one else about.  
"Um...Tsukino-san?"

Sephiroth: Nabiki needs to get glasses. What happened to Tim and Miss Gordon?

	Akane's smiled, her voice oozing honey, "Oh, Nabiki-oneechan, I would like 
to introduce you to Tsukino Ran, the heir to the Masaki Dojo.  It seems he 
didn't really find Ranko to be a challenge."
	"I would not say that Akane-san."  Ran said then.  "I am older than her and 
have more experience in the art than she would at her age."
	Nabiki blinked.  That was Bruce Wayne sitting there.  She recognized him 

>from the research she did after the revelations about Ranmas past, so why 

was he pretending to be someone else?  And how could a dillitant playboy be 
able to defeat someone who's whole life was martial arts?  Something was 
wrong here and until she could figure it out, she'd play along.  "I am 
afraid I've never heard of the Masaki dojo, could you please tell me about

it?"

Rarstarr: It's based on an alien sword fighting technique.
Ryoko: Thank you for that pointless aside.

	Nodoka looked over at Nabiki, "The Masaki Dojo is my families school 
Nabiki.  Father teaches many disciplines there ranging from open handed 
combat to the use of the sword.  When Ran-chan was a teenager, he spent 
years learning, and became the schools best student.  He's only become 
better over the years."
	Nabiki took this in and added it to the datum that she already had.  What 
had everyone stated for that wish again?  /Rich, mature, intelligent, not 
cowardly, freeloading, or immoral, and an even better fighter who could 
teach.  Well, the particulars were being filled, but for Bruce Wayne to 
teach Ranma, it meant that he had to be an extremely good fighter who spent 

Sephiroth: Maybe you mean "for Bruce Wayne to beat Ranma"
Amy: That makes more sense.

decades learning the art.  How could Bruce Wayne be a fighter, and a lazy 
playboy at the same time?/
	"Don't tell me.  You also do the training trip bit like Ranma-kun does.  
Disappearing all the time in the pursuit of the being the best in the art."  
Nabiki said lazily.  Reaching for some tea, she continued.  "I bet that you 
aren't much of a scholar either."

Rarstarr: Well, Nabiki has proven herself to be a better spy than James
"walk up
	and ask them direct questions" Bond.

	"Well, I have managed to keep up, Nabiki-chan.  Computers are good ways of 
studying."  Ran said, sounding a little annoyed.
	"Oh, don't get me wrong.  I can understand Ranma-kun not having the best 
marks in school knowing that he devotes so much of his time to other studies 
he considers just as, if not more important, than bookwork.  After all, 
being a Sensei and protector requires a different type of knowledge from 
that learned in an academic setting."  Nabiki said quietly as amazed looks 
appeared on the faces of everyone at the table, especially Ranko.

All: ....
Sephiroth: This is NABIKI?!
Rarstarr: All I can say is "pod people"

	She looked around at everyone, "Don't be so surprised.  While I may try and 
keep his ego down now and then, I do respect Ranma.  How many other people 
around here could take care of Happousai, or some of the other unusual 
things that show up?  While Ranma may not have book smarts, he is the best 
person I know in his field of endeavor.  There are times I regret that I 
gave up my chance to be with him."
	Soun coughed, "You mean you wish that you were engaged to Ranma?"
	Nabiki blushed a bit, looking at Akane.  "I don't think I should answer 
that question.  Besides, he's Akane's fiance."
	Ran's right eyebrow twitched slightly.  /As far as the reports I had, there 
were three official fiancees and one girl who wanted to be.  Now I have to 
add another suitor to the list.  What is it about Ranma that has so many 
girls after him despite not having any money?/

Ryoko: He's like Tenchi, noble, honourable, willing to fight for you.
Rarstarr: The main character.

	His eyes glanced quickly towards Nodoka who was now talking with Nabiki 
about their son.  Well, no matter how hard he tried, he had never figured 
out how the female mind worked.  He had come close a few times, at least 
enough to catch the female criminals, but was never able to really bring it 
all together.
	Mr. Panda, or Saotome Genma was the only one who noticed the slight look 
towards Nodoka.  He was familiar with Tsukino Ran, after all, there were 
times he had been compared to him, especially after his marriage.  Ran was 
always the better warrior, the more honourable opponent, and the cleaner 
fighter.  If he had beaten Ranma, then he was at least at his level of the 
art, possibly a bit better.  Unfortunately, there wasn't anything he could 
do about it, especially since to do so would mean Nodoka would take his life 
with that sword.

Ryoko: You've got no idea bud.

	How he longed to fight and beat the man who was Nodoka's first love.
	For the next few hours, the talk disintergrated into the various arts that 
the people there practiced, the pros and cons of each, and how different 
moves could be used or countered.
	It was time that Nabiki was using to put various small clues together.
	Bruce Wayne, billionaire, was known as an idle playboy, not really 
concentrating too much on anything other than his business and the various 
charities he sponsored.  He partied hard, made contacts, and generally kept 
to himself for the most part.  Wayne Manor, his families ancestral home, had 
hosted numerous charity functions over the years, and by official record, 
Bruce had gone to all of the right schools when growing up.
	That was completely at odds with the statement that as a teenager Bruce had 
studied for years at the Masaki Dojo.  The man was obviously at masters 
level in the art since he had been able to beat Ranma, and he was able to 
talk about martial arts as an expert, even to the point of giving small 
demonstrations with his hands, which had the toughness of an experienced 
fighter.  He spoke fluent Japanese, without an accent, and had more than a 
passing familiarity with Nodoka.
	She thought back again to what the Demon had shown;  The party where the 
Joker showed up, and Batman coming after him so quickly.  The way Batman 
didn't have an accent, and most of all, how he managed to get into and out 
of the country without being traced or noticed.  Batman's home base was 
Gotham city as was Bruce Waynes.  The devices that the Batman had cost lots 
of money.  On the scale of millions.  Given the nunber of enemies he had, 
Batman was well hidden.  This indicated strong governmental or private

backing.

	Nabiki's eyes widened slightly as she put it together, although she didn't 
say a word.  Bruce had two wards, Richard Grayson and Timothy Drake.  He was 
seen in the company of one of his employees quite often, the daughter of the 
citys police commisioner, Barbara Gordon.  Batman had three partners, 
Nightwing, Robin, and Batgirl.  /So, Bruce Wayne, billionaire playboy is 
actually Batman.  I think Gotham city is going to be quite exciting./

Rarstarr: And Nabiki promptly proves herself smarter than all the criminal 
	geniuses of Gotham.
Sephiroth: That is one scary lady.

***

	Supper that night was quite an event.  Since Kasumi didn't have enough 
prepared, even with the extra shopping she did with Barbara and Tim, she had 
called Ukyou to deliver some of her restaurants specialties.  What was 
unexpected was that both Shampoo and Ukyou had arrived with a feast, telling 
the others that they were trying to combine their talents in order to run a 
restaurant together when they were older.
	After the meal, everyone was relaxing and Ran looked at Nodoka.  She nodded 
slightly.  Taking that cue, he said, "Everyone, there is something we need 
to discuss.  It affects a lot of people here, especially one person."
	Nabiki smirked.  She knew what was coming, but how would Ranma explain his 
curse was the real question.

Ryoko: Get ready....
Rarstarr: Conisdering his impending doom, you'd think Ranma would be kinda
	jumpy.

	"Although I was designated the heir of the Masaki Dojo, Nodoka and I have 
been talking, and have decided on a new heir.  Someone who could better 
carry on the traditions of her fathers dojo, quite possibly throughout the 
world.  This heir has been practicing for many years, seen many troubles and 
sacraficed a lot in order to become the best of his generation."  Bruce 
sipped his tea slowly, and then quickly tossed it at Ranko, "Isn't that 
right son?"

Rarstarr: Oh, nicely done. Even the sip was important.
Ryoko: Yeah, wouldn't want to burn the boy.

	Everyone but Nodoka and Barbara, were stunned at this action.  A look of 

Amy: Well, Bruce's wards are back.

horror came across the face of Mr. Panda who was quickly trying to escape, 
only to be brought up short by a katana being held at it's throat. "Why, 
Genma, don't tell me that you are going to leave when we all have so much to 
discuss."
	Defeated, the panda came back in the room, looking at the blade held in his 
wifes hands.
	Ranma was looking at his mother, and at the man who had managed to beat him 
earlier in the day, "I...I mean...It's not what....You see..."
	Bruce chuckled, as Tim looked on, blinking slightly, his face getting an 
excited look.  "It's OK son.  Your mother and I know all about it."

Sephiroth: Shocking, ne?

	Ranma blinked and then stood up and faced Nodoka, saying calmly, "I am 
ready to commit Seppuku mother.  It is obvious that I am not a man among 
men, and never could be."
	Nodoka smiled mysteriously.  "My son, you do not need to commit Seppuku.  
The promise that was held has no meaning in this case.  It is time for you 
to speak with your father while I take care of Genma."

Amy: I'd like to point out that the panda is an endangered species.

	That was enough to start Ranma thinking again, if only slightly.  "You mean 
Bruce Wayne is already in Japan?"
	Genma, Soun, Barbara, Nodoka and Bruce started.  Bruce was the first to 
find his voice.  "You mean you know?  How did you find out that I was your 
father?"
	Ranma blinked hard and looked at Ran.  "You're Bruce Wayne?"
	"Oh, a number of people know."  Nabiki said calmly, sipping her tea as if 
nothing had happened.  "We found out a few days ago, and were wondering when 
you'd be coming by.  How long will it be before you take Ranma back to 
America with you?"

Sephiroth: One of these days something very unexpected will happen to Nabiki
	And she'll actually act shocked.

	This gave Bruce the oportunity to regain his composure.  "How many others 
know?"
	Kasumi spoke up, "A small number of people.  I don't think the Kuno's do, 
and I haven't told anyone myself.  It would have been impolite."
	Soun took this opportunity to faint.

***

	While Soun was being tended to by Kasumi, Ranma took the oportunity to 
gather his wits.  He was still amazed that his mother knew about Jusenkyu, 
and more surprised that his natural father had heard of them as well.  
Shaking his head, he looked around the room at everyone there.  Kasumi, 
Shampoo, and Ukyou were talking with each other, Akane had this angry look 
on her face, his mom and dad were talking over in a corner, or more like 
Nodoka was talking while Genma was gulping a lot, and Mr. Wayne was talking 
with Nabiki.

Amy: GO NODOKA! Beat him to a pulp! (Realises others are looking at 
	her) What?
Rarstarr: A little bloodthristy aren't we?

	"Tim is asking where he can get powers like yours, Ranma," Barbara said to 
the young man who was the focus of these events.  "He likes people with 
super powers, like Superman and Supergirl, so he thinks it's cool that you 
have the power to shape change."
	Ranma looked over to the young man and then shook his head, "Please tell 
him that I don't think he'd like what it does to a person.  It ain't a nice 
ability most of the time so I don't think he'd want 'em.  No one would.  It 
ain't called a curse for nuthin'."
	Barbara translated this for Tim, whose expression was shocked at that.
	"<What?  That's nut's!  He's great as a fighter, an' with those powers, 
imagine the number of criminals he'd pound away.>"  the boy said while he 
punched in demonstration.  "<I'd love to have 'em, and be able to hide while 
the Joker or Two-Face is looking for me.>"

Sephiroth: I think he's misssing the point.
Ryoko: More like he's missing the whole spear.

	Barbara stared Tim down at the last sentence.  "He said he'd love to have 
those abilities, especially if he could fight like that."
	Ranma looked at the boy, "Is he entirely sane?  It's a pain shifting back 
and forth, feeling as if you're losing a part of yourself everytime.  And he 
wants to have these 'abilities?'"
	Barbara sighed herself.  "Well, his favourite hero is Batman, so being able 
to switch forms seems like some sort of super power to him."
	Ranma then smirked to himself, remembering his own youthful dreams of being 
a hero to hundreds, if not thousands of people.  "Well, from the looks of 
it, I'm gonna end up living with Mr. Wayne, I mean father, soon, so I can 
train him in some things whenever he comes by.  I will not, however, tell 
him how to get this damned curse."
	Barbara raised an eyebrow, "What's so bad about this curse?"
	Ranma looked at the older woman, and for the first time in his life saw not 
disgust, amazement, lust, or smug superiority.  Barbara's eyes contained 
simple curiosity about why he was feeling that way.  He grimaced slightly, 
"Gordan-san, I was brought up as a boy, a man among men, and men do not 
become women and enjoy it.  How would you feel if you changed size and 
shape, sometimes without realizing it.  How would you like being called a 
pervert, disgusting, or being without friends because of something that was 
not your fault.  The change isn't painful, but the reactions of the people 
around you are."

All: (wince)
Rarstarr: He's become suddenly talkative, hasn't he?

	He intensified his voice, unknowingly echoing the same timber that Batman's 
held.  "Everyone who finds out about this 'curse' thinks that it's the 
changing of your body that's the curse.  It's not.  Shampoo likes her cat 
form for some things, and she goes around in it at times.  Pops...Genma 
likes being a panda, and usually spends most of the time that way.  For 
another guy I know, he really thinks it's the change of bodies that's the 
curse, because people like to eat the animal form he turns into, while it's 
not being able to admit the truth."
	His eyes glinted and narrowed sharply, "The real curse about the change of 
gender is when other people know.  No matter who they are, they think that 
you've lied to them, or betrayed them, especially if you're honest about it. 
They look upon you with disgust, fear, or pity, never willing to find out 
who you actually are.  The curse for me is not the body I get, but the 
reactions of the people around me.  Do you think I have any friends?  Anyone 
I can actually be open with?  I've got four girls after me as though I'm a 
prize to be won, boys after me for the same reason, and people who want to 
harm or kill me.  I keep getting taken advantage of, people purposely not 
understanding me, or made to seem as though everything is my fault."
	Ranma leaned back and closed his eyes, dispelling the moment.  "That is my 
curse, Gordon-san.  I do not, and cannot, have any friends as such luxuries 
are reserved for those people who do not have the bonds of extreme honour 
and responsibility chaining them.  I am alone, and probably always will be 
despite trying to have relationships with others."

Amy: That was... beautiful.
Rarstarr: I like stories where we see the hidden side of the characters.

	Barbara stared at the young man before her, not believing that he did not 
have even one friend.  And yet, when she had looked into his eyes, she had 
seen the truth of it.  While Bruce was a hard person, hiding his feelings 
most of the time, he still had time for friendship, and family.  
Unfortunately, it seems his son had never known either.  Her heart went out 
to him, but she knew he would not take, or accept pity.  Impulsively, the 
red headed girl grabbed the boys hand.  "Ranma, as hard as it is to believe 
you do have friends, and family.  Your father and mother both love you, and 
they want to be with you.  Timothy admires you, and he's your younger 
brother, and you have an older one who will help you.  And you have me.  I 
am your friend, and I hope you might one day accept me as your older sister."
	Ranma was startled out of his non-emotional state.  "Timothy...is...my 
brother?  I have a brother?  And you want to be my friend and my sister, not 
a fiance?"

Rarstarr: Actually Ranma, she said you have two brothers.

	Barbara smiled, "That's right Ranma.  You do have people you can trust and 
love.  People who, no matter what your body may look like, love you for who 
you are, what you are."
	Ranma shook his head slightly, not quite believing what she said, but 
hoping it was true.
	Noticing this, Barabara took her finger and stuck it in his chest just over 
his heart.  "This is where you live Ranma.  It's not what surrounds you, or 
what people want of you, it who you are inside that matters.  You are not a 
prize to be won, or a person who is to be feared.  You are an unique 
individual, who deserves to recognized on your merits, whether or not it's 
as a man or a woman."
	He looked into her eyes, and saw everything she said was true.  He didn't 
have to fear her going after him, or pitying him.  Her eyes contained only 
truth and friendship, without regard for the curse.  For the first time in 
his life, Ranma believed in true, lasting friendship.

	Akane was grumbling as she observed everything that was going on around 
her.  Her sisters were acting like nothing was wrong, the bimbo and the 
crossdresser were working together on some type of plot, and Ranma's real 
father was as much a fake as uncle Genma was.  Imagine, lying and forcing 
Aunt Nodoka to lie for him.

Rarstarr: Huh?
Amy: That whole business with Ran.
Ryoko: Paranoid ain't she.

	She looked towards Ranma and saw the warm smile he was giving that gaigin 
girl while she was touching his chest.  /HOW DARE HE!  NOT EVEN FIVE MINUTES 
TALKING WITH HER AND HE"S HOLDING HER HANDS!!!/
	Akane stood up, about to go over, and then saw his eyes.  Usually Ranma's 
eyes were reserved, and told people that he was keeping himself back.  This 
time, his eyes showed unreserved friendship.  For the first time in his 
life, Ranma had left himself defenseless to another persons emotions, and 
the woman he was looking at wasn't her.  She closed her eyes slowly and left 
the room, deciding she wouldn't let the anger she felt show.  If this is 
what he wanted, then he was free of her.  She would not stand in the way of 
his happiness.

Ryoko: THIS GIRL IS AN IDIOT!!!
Sephiroth: A jealous idiot actually.

	Going into her room, Akane looked around and saw her backpack, still packed 
as she never knew when she'd need it.  She changed quickly, and then slipped 
out the window.  There was a lot to think about, and perhaps by going on a 
training trip of her own, she could decide what to do.  After all, Ranma 
wouldn't be leaving for a few days, and he would still want to say good-bye. 
She had some time.
	Enough time to decide if she really wanted to marry him.

***

	Genma looked at the katana that was being held and cleaned in front of him, 
hardly hearing what Nodoka was saying.  At the moment, he was reeling from 
the revelations that his son was not his son, that Ranma already knew that, 
and the promise of Seppuku would not be carried out.  However, he was not 
off the hook, especially with the gleam that Nodoka had in her eyes as she 
polished the steel.  "Nodoka-chan, there were good reasons for keeping the 
boy away from you."
	Nodoka continued polishing the blade, "Do you think that I would take my 
son's life because of a training accident?  It is obvious that you do not 
know me very well at all Genma-san.  The many years that you have visited 
other women, I could forget for a while.  The crimes you committed and had 
Ranma commit for you, I cannot forgive.  Despite what you have done, and how 
you have trained my child, he has become a man among men.  You, however, 
have dishonoured me and my family too long.  Tommorow, you will regain the 
clans honour."

Rarstarr: About time that honourless kur got his.
Sephiroth: Have you been taking lessons from Kuno?

	Genma's eyes bulged a bit at that statement, and he grabbed a glass of 
water, pouring it over his head.  Pulling out one of his magic signs, he 
commented, 'I'm just a simple panda.'
	Nodoka frowned at this display.  "You refuse to hear anything that I have 
stated, and now you lie yet again.  Very well, _Panda-chan_.  You say that 
you are a panda, and such you will be.  I will hold that statement to be 
true, and if you ever become human once more, then there will be no place on 
earth to protect you from my wrath.  Saotome Genma is dead and has been dead 
for some time.  I have no husband."
	Genma visibly relaxed until the katana came up below his neck.  "Now 
_Panda-chan_, an exotic pet such as yourself is not allowed in the United 
States, and since we will not be here, there is only one place for such as 
yourself."
	Nodoka raised her voice, "Ran-chan, do you have your phone with you?  I 
need to make a call."
	Nabiki smirked as Bruce pulled his cell phone out of his pocket.  Despite 
the way the two of them had been talking about business, they had been 
paying attention to the various small drama's going on about them.  "There 
is no need for that aunt Nodoka.  I called the zoo about an hour ago, and 
they will be here soon to take panda-chan to his new cage.  With 
'Ranko-chan' going to the states, our family can ill-afford to keep such an 
animal.  Why soon he would eat us out of house and home and where would we

be?"

Ryoko: GO NABIKI!! I like this girl.
Amy: You wouldn't if she was in love with Tenchi.
Rarstarr: And there's an interesting pair up.

	Bruce grinned and he went towards the panda.  It was the perfect 
punishment, and the girl was one step ahead of all of them.  "Well, I hope 
they have enough money to keep him.  I think I'll donate enough for a proper 
cage."
	Nabiki smiled at Mr. Wayne as she also approached the black and white bear. 
"I would say they have enough money for that, especially since I told them 
that this panda likes to roam about.  Given the numerous panda sightings in 
the neighborhood and on the beach, the zoo is making a sealed exhibit area.  
And do you know that the fee they are paying is just enough to cover all the 
cost we have incurred since it was brought back from China?"
	"Really?"  Bruce said in a light tone of voice, "As much as that?"
	Nabiki nodded.  "Yes, and after we fumigate, the house will smell so much 
nicer."

All: (snigger)
Rarstarr: Genma did WHAT in the hallway?!

	"Tendo-san.  When you finish school, would you consider joining Wayne 
Enterprises?  I think that someone with your abilities will go far in our 
company."
	"Certainly, Wayne-san.  I would consider such an offer an honour to accept."
	Nodoka smiled demurely as she kept the animal in his place with the katana 
as Bruce and Nabiki continued to find and remove all the mystic signs that 
panda-chan used to communicate.

Sephiroth: I wonder if they've really considered what they've just done to
Genma.
	They've stolen from him his humanity.
Ryoko: He had some to begin with?

	Ranma looked over towards his parents.  His real parents as Genma was 
finally paying the price for all of his years of mischief.  He was sad in a 
way, Genma had been the only parent he had known.  Still, there were too 
many thing for which he could not forgive the old man.  "At least this way 
no one else will suffer."
	Barbara looked quietly at the scene.  "You are wrong about that. When 
everything is finished, your mother plans to take her life to atone for 
leaving you alone with him."

Ryoko: Nicely done girl. That's just what needed to be said.

	Ranma shouted, "WHAT!!!"
	He got up and went towards his mother.  "Mom, ya can't be serious!  Killing 
yourself over him?  He ain't worth it!  Besides, how will I get to know ya 
if you don't stay alive."
	Nodoka frowned.  Ranma obviously had not heard what they were saying, and 
there were some things that they needed to take care of.  His manners for 
one.  "Son, I value my families honour highly, and it has been stained by 
this panda."
	Ranma thought quickly, and then said formally, "How can an animal, which 
you have hardly had contact with, take your honour?  Can such an animal be 
the cause of your death for feeding it's appetite?  No, let the panda go to 
an appropriate place, and let yourself know your honour is intact."
	"Well said, my son.  But honour is more than just this animal."  Nodoka 
replied wondering at her son's probable rebutle.  This would show how 
flexible he was.	

Rarstarr: Bye-bye Genma. you just lost the last person who was thinking of
	you.

	Ranma thought for a few seconds.  "Mother, if you hold your honour and that 
of the family so dear, how can you let me not know that honour.  I have been 
raised by this animal, and all I know of honour is from observing others.  
Will you teach me honour or should I continue to observe others in trying to 
attain it."
	Nodoka smiled at her son.  "I will teach you the ways of honour my son.  
But be warned; there are many ways of honour, and some will not be pleasent. 
Do you have the stregnth and fortitude to train yourself properly?  To 
protect others in spite of what it may do to yourself?  Are you willing to 
put the well being of others before your own dreams?"
	Ranma bowed low, "I will endeavour to do so mother, if you will teach me."
	Nabiki looked at this in some wonder.  Ranma actually knew the formal forms 
of Japanese culture.  He wasn't the illiterate barbarian she always thought 
him.  What else was he hiding from her?  She then looked at the older woman. 
There was something in the way that was said...

Ryoko: (sniggers) Nabiki is starting to loose her footing.

	/Masaka!  She knows!/ she thought to herself, trying hard to keep the 
surprise off of her face.  /How long has she known?  Of course!  Why else 
would she allow Genma to take Ranma with a promise of making him 'a man 
among men?'  She's known since the beginning that Bruce Wayne was Batman.  
If she grew up in a martial arts family, then there is no way she could not 
have known, especially since she knows how to use that blade, despite how 
much she tries to make it look like she doesn't.  But why would she hide 
herself behind the veil of an incompetant housewife?  And how could she 
support herself for this long given the prices in this country?  Could Mr. 
Wayne have been supporting her all along, or is it something else?/
	More clues filtered into her head as Nabiki thought of other people who 
appeared at about the same time as the Batman, and her eyes opened slightly, 
/It couldn't be!  No, it HAS to be.  So that's what the Masaki Dojo does.  
Ranma is becoming more interesting all the time./

Amy: Did anyone get that?
Rarstarr: (thoughtfully) Maybe they do superhero training or something. Or
	they're ninja.

The next day...

	The Magistrate watched as Nodoka placed the last document in front of him.  
Normally, this would have taken weeks, if not months, but he had cleared his 
schedule to handle this situation.  An unusual occurance, but he had orders 

>from the highest level of the Diet, as well as some indication of what this 

meant by Those Carry Follow His Will.  Of course, given that the man beside 

Rarstarr: Um... now I don't know much about Japanese politics, but is that
phrase
	right? "Those Carry Follow His Will" doesn't sound good.

this woman was the reknowned Bruce Wayne, someone whose business concerns 
deeply affected the country, it was to be expected.  Any chance to insure 
that this man had closer ties to the people of Japan was to be encouraged.
	In this case, it was the devorce of one Masaki Nodoka from Saotome Genma.  

>From the stated documents, as well as the case privately presented to him 

before seeing these two, he would have granted the petition in any case.  
Genma had run off with the child, hiding and dishonouring both his family 
name and his wifes.  Futhermore, evidence had been provided from an 
anonymous source that proved he was responsible for a large amount of the 
disorder and damage that had occured in Nerima, even if he had not 
participated in the actual damage.

Amy: Hello Nabiki.

	Such a man was not one who was acceptable to proper society.  Given the 
possible number of crimes the man may have been involved in, despite the 
fact that it would have been kept quiet due to family honour, the Magistrate 
had also issued an arrest warrant if he was ever seen.  Something that the 
source said was not likely in the near future.
	"Masaki-san, having reviewed the petition as you have presented it, I find 
no reason to deny you your request, nor do I find reason to further punish 
you for your unfortunate association with this person.  There will be no 
restrictions upon you or your actions, nor do I find you responsible for his 
crimes, as you were never involved."  Magistrate Fujisawa stated.  "If I may 
offer the appologies of the government, since, if we had known about this 
persons actions, we would have step in and much sooner."

Rarstarr: "we would have stepped in"

	Nodoka bowed her head towards the Magistrate.  "Fujisawa-sama, I thank you 
for your words, and for your consideration.  I thank the government and 
yourself for your lieniency in this matter.  I will be travelling with my 
son to America for some time to allow what has happened not to affect my 
child.  Given that none really know him, I hope that in future he may not 
suffer because of he who will not be mentioned."
	The Magistrate was impressed. He rose and gave a deep bow to this woman who 
was among the best of their people.  This woman would be of the Nobility if 
the Americans still allowed it.  "Masaki-san, I will help your son, should 
he ask it of me."
	Nodoka and Bruce also rose, bowed, and gave their goodbyes.

***

	Ranma looked over the Tendo home where he had spent the last few months of 
his life.
	It was going to be strange leaving here.  There were so many people he 
knew, loved, and cared about.  /Hell, I even care about the Kuno's, not that 
I'd miss em.  Even if they are supposed to be my enemies, they've been 
friends when I've needed em.  I wonder what that makes me, where my worst 
enemies are also my best friends.  Nabiki'd probably say I'm crazy./
	Sighing quietly, he went into Akane's room with the note he had written, 
and a small gift, he had wraped.  He'd tried to find her yesterday evening, 
but she wasn't around, and when he noticed that she had taken her backpack, 
he knew that she'd left.  She wasn't going to be staying with friends this 
time, and for her to leave like that meant that she left him.  He wouldn't 
even have a chance to say good-bye, or tell her how he felt about her.  It 
still hurt.

Amy: Poor Akane may have just lost any chance of marrying Ranma.

	He qent back to his room, picked up his backpack and took a last look.  
Except for some damage to the walls, there wasn't anything to say that he'd 
ever been here.  For the first time in his life, Ranma realized what that 
meant.
	He realized that he wouldn't be coming back.  
	Then again, he had a habit of leaving places behind him without being able 
to go back.  

Amy: (sniffs) How sad. I can't imagine living like that.

	Going outside, he saw that Kasumi was waiting for him.  "Hi Onee...Kasumi.  
I..I guess that's it."
	Kasumi looked at Ranma and saw that he was holding back his emotions, 
holding back his feelings.  She held out a large package for him.  
"Ranma-kun, I know how hard this is for you, but face it like the man that 
you are, the little brother that I love.  I was made something for you, but 

Rarstarr: "I have made"

you're not to open it until you get to America.  Just be happy in whatever 
you do."
	Ranma took the package and then hugged Kasumi, not knowing what to say.  He 
met Barbara at the gate and then took one last look back at the yard and the 
house.  He now knew what it was to leave home behind forever.
	"Ranma?"
	"I'm okay, Barbara-chan.  Let's go."

Rarstarr: Not even the universe is forever Ranma.
Amy: And home is where the heart is.
Ryoko: Or in your case, where the insanity is.

***

	Bruce looked at the woman next to him as they walked through the small 
park.  "I'm sorry that I'm a disappointment to your family, Nodoka-chan."
	Nodoka stopped and looked at him carefully.  "You aren't a disappointment 
Ran-chan.  Everything that you've done in your life is a testament to that."

Sephiroth: Don't forget, they had to put up with Genma.

	Bruce turned his face to the ground.  "Your father was counting on me to 
carry on the school, to carry on the honour of the Masaki clan and name, and 
I wasn't able to, and can't do that.  I know he doesn't blame me, but I 
blame myself."
	Nodoka did something very uncharacteristic for a Japanese woman and held 
his face in her hand.  "I know how you've helped others, and that is what is 
important.  You have the spirit and dedication of a Samurai, and the 
determination never to see others hurt.  How many people have you given jobs 
and hope to, the number of students that get mysterious grants and 
scholarships so that they can go to school?  I am proud Ran-chan.  Prouder 
of you than you can know or believe."
	Bruce turned away suddenly.  "I am no Samurai, Nodoka-chan.  There is a 
side of my life that you know nothing about, and the darkness that I am a 
part of.  I have to tell you about it and when I do, you'll know why I am a 
disappointment."
	"Do you mean about the Batman?"  Nodoka smiled softly.  "I know that you 
have supported him through the years, and i have seen what he has done.  
Yes, he hides himself in the darkness and uses the techniques of the Ninja, 
but he is not one.  He has great honour, and has made many sacrafices, most 
of all of the heart, for all that he believes in.  He is Samurai, even if he 
does not feel himself to be one."

Rarstarr: Sometimes the light must hide in the dark.
Amy: Stop stealing lines from other people's fanfics!

	Bruce raised an eyebrow at that and looked into her eyes.  He saw in them 
that she knew, not only what he thought of himself, but who the Batman was.  
She knew the truth that he had never allowed himself to tell her.  
"Nodoka-chan..."
	She quieted him with a hand over his mouth.  "Ran-chan, let us go to see my 
father immediately.  He should know that I am seeing you again.  And he 
should also know one other thing."
	"What?"  Bruce asked.
	"That I need his approval.  Bruce Wayne, known to me as Tsukino Ran, I have 
waited long enough.  Will you marry me?"
	There was only one answer to that question.  "Yes!"

All: YAAAY!!!

***

	Ranma was visibly peeved as he and Barbara travelled through the Ginza.  
"Com'on Barbara-chan.  Do we have to do this?"
	Barbara smiled a small, mysteriously smug smile.  "We do.  After all, you 
do want to make the right impression on the people you'll be meeting."
	/What I wouldn't give for a fight right now./ he thought as they went past 
several clothing stores.  Shopping was not one of his favourite activities, 
unless it had to do with food.  "I have a suit already, can't we let it go 
at that?"

Amy: You have got to be kidding.
Rarstarr: Even I don't own one set of good clothes.
Sephiroth: I do.
Ryoko: You only ever wear one set of clothes.
Rarstarr: Unless you count what Bizarro and Safer wore.

	The young redhead rolled her eyes.  "Oh sure.  You have a tuxedo with 
tails.  The perfect wear...NOT!  We're going to get you a whole new 
wardrobe, and one better suited to your station in life than those clothes 
you're wearing right now. and speak in English."
	"<I not need so much clothes.  This good.>"  Ranma said as he pointed to 
his outfit.

Rarstarr: And now he sounds like Shampoo.

	"<It is not good enough.  You're getting a set of clothes if I have to drag 
you into the store.>"
	A barely covered laugh interupted them.
	"<You too, Tim.  You'e not going anywhere without a couple of new suits 
either.>"  Barbara said as she looked at the black haired young man that was 
snickering at his brothers misfortune.

Rarstarr: Ah, spending other people's money. The delight of every woman.
Amy: (pulls out mallet and hits Rarstarr)

	Tim sighed and looked at Ranma. "<Ya might as well get used to it.  She 
does things like this all the time.>"
	Ranma grunted.  "<It not fair.>"
	Suddenly, a thick cloud of smoke surrounded them and Barbara screamed as 
she felt her leg hit hard.
	"<I don't think that you'll be doing any shopping.>" a voice said as Ranma 
grabbed both Tim and Barbara and leapt out of the smoke.
	People on the street were looking, running, and trying to get out of the 
way as a man, a Ninja, came out of the smoke.  "<I think the pain of the 
Rich Man's assistant will be enough of a warning for him.  Boy, I don't know 
who you are, but stay out of my way.  You show some skill, but not enough.  
Warn Wayne that he is in my Country again, and that this time, he will die.>"
	The Ninja disappeared in another cloud of smoke, as Tim started to reach 
behind him.  "<Barbara, are you OK?>"
	Barbara tried to put some weight on her leg. and almost passed out from the 
pain.  "<No.  I think it's broken.>"
	Ranma didn't say a word, as he lifted Barbara up and carried her as he and 
Tim started to run back towards the Wayne Enterprises building.

To be continued...

Ryoko: Nice cliff-hanger.
Rarstarr: And all up a wonderful story.
Sephiroth: Although it doesn't have all the angst of a Batman comic, nor
the action,
	the story flows just right, with enough character interaction and surprises
	to keep the reader guessing.
Amy: Of course it makes sense for Bruce to be better than Ranma, it is a little
	disconcerting. Especially since he typically only fights against street punks
	in Gotham. Certainly that makes Gotham a scary place.
Rarstarr: A very successful cross-over, with lots of potential plot-lines,
not the least of
	which is Genma's revenge. And once more it is thrown up into the air as to 
	who Ranma will marry.
Ryoko: And will Ranma join in his father's hobbies. And how will he deal with 
	Cat-woman.
Rarstarr: How will Batman deal with the Neko-ken?
Amy: What will happen when bat-boy gets splashed and finds his armour a little
	too restrictive?
Rarstarr: As always, we're awaiting the next part with eager anticipation.

-----------
Rarstarr,
David Farr
http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~djfarr/
djfarr@ihug.co.nz