Subject: [FFML][Ranma]A Scary Difference Chapter 5
From: Pat Olsen
Date: 4/23/1999, 11:28 PM
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                A Scary Difference Chapter 5

    Elsewhere, Shampoo and Cologne had learned many things, none of them

including Frost's whereabouts, or Kasumi Tendo's for that matter.
Cologne had been informed by the good doctor that he had last seen Frost

last evening, when she went up to the small room she was using.  Cologne

had then attempted to track the girl, but soon after leaving Tofu's
office the trail, faint as it was, vanished all together.  Something
told Cologne that magic was involved. A closer examination of Frost's
room showed that she had been studying her books before departing, but
the exact chapter or verse was impossible to determine.

    Still, Cologne figured that Frost's absence and that of the
son-in-law had to be tied together in someway.  A closer examination of
the room Kasumi had vanished in followed. At first nothing was apparent,

but it soon appeared that a fairly good thief had broken in since
Shampoo had left.  Cologne felt that there was something familiar about
the thief's methods, but, < It can't be him, or he's reformed his
lechery, and lost a great deal of skill in the process.>  All that could

be found to be missing was one of Kasumi's traveling outfits.

    Cologne pondered this.  < Why this deception?  If Kasumi is still
around to need a change of clothing, why break in, and if she is in
hiding, why risk detection thus?>  She turned to her granddaughter.
"Child, visit the Tendo dojo, and then tell me what you find.  If you
see your husband, do not tarry, but hurry back here and inform me
immediately."

    Shampoo looked puzzled at the instructions, but nodded, and began
heading off.  She paused momentarily.  "But what will you be doing
Great-grandmother?"

    Cologne was standing quietly on the corner, looking about the room
as if seeing it for the first time.  "Looking.  Now go."

    Shampoo did as she was told.  Cologne's ancient eyes peered about
the room, and her breathing, slight as it already was, slowed
perceptibly. < Powerful magic was indeed used here, sometime in the late

evening, I'd judge.  Did that magic lay in wait for Kasumi's awakening,
or was it responsible for her change as Shampoo reported it?>  Shaking
her head she sighed.  < Perhaps I should have studied the mystic arts
more fully, but it never was my strong side.>  She examined the room
then, taking care not to miss a single detail.  <A white cat has been in

here.  I believe I've seen the animal before, with Makoto.>  She
examined the windowsill carefully.  < Yes, this has been used as an
entrance for the feline.> Finally she examined the things Kasumi had
vanished in.  Nothing came to her attention at first, but something
finally caught her eye.  < What's this?>

    Shampoo arrived soon after to find her great-grandmother downstairs
smoking in contemplation.  She was almost bouncing as she reported.
"Airen is at Tendo dojo!  We go see, yes?"

    Cologne nodded as if this confirmed some of what she was thinking
about.  "Yes child, but first I think we should collect some things from

Frost's room, as well as bring the good Doctor along."

    Shampoo shrugged.  "Alright, but why bring Doctor to Tendo's?  No
one sick."

    Cologne laughed, a mirthless cackle.  "No, child, but his skills may

be needed yet.  Come now."  The two left the restaurant together.

************************************************************************

    Ryouko leapt over the back wall of the Tendo house.

    As usual, she had hurried here and changed before Ranma could
arrive, so she could be at home to greet him.  Her arrival was noted by
no one usually, as Soun and Genma would be busy cheating at Shogi, and
Nodoka would be inside this time of day.  Today however, someone noticed

her arrival.

    "Oh how nice.  You must be Ranma's dog!  Here Ryouko, good girl!"  A

sweet voice wheedled from the back of the dojo as Ryouko arrived.

    The voice made Ryouko's ears press back against her head in
agitation.  < Kasumi?  What's she playing at?>  She growled at the girl
as she passed her, snapping at the outstretched hand.  She was pleased
when Kasumi jumped back in fright. < Mock me, will she?>

    Kasumi was stunned, the dog's vicious manner had shocked her.  < My,

Ryouko certainly doesn't like me.  That's never happened before.>  True
enough, most animals had an instant liking for Kasumi.  She wondered.
<I wonder if she can smell that I'm not the Kasumi she knows?>

    That the knowledge would have greatly pleased the wolf didn't occur
to her.  As it was, Ryouko was only mildly puzzled. <I wonder what's
different about her?  She doesn't smell quite right.> She shrugged.  <
Oh, who cares, I hear Ranma coming!>  She quickly got up and ran towards

the front of the house to greet him properly.

    Kasumi watched the wolf go with some relief, and began sweeping the
dojo again.

    Inside, Ranma was happy to see his pet.  "Hey Ryouko, I'm glad to
see
you too, girl.  You missed me huh?  What do you do all day when I'm not
here?"

    Ryouko was just glad wolves couldn't blush or speak.

    Akane passed by the two, saying.  "I'll go see if C-chan's returned,

I'm getting a little worried about her."  Akane went upstairs, but was
disappointed, C-chan had still not returned.

    Downstairs again, Ranma, after giving his mother a perfunctory
greeting, asked.  "Hey Mom?  Where is Kasumi?  Is she feeling any
better?"

    Nodoka nodded.  "I think she's feeling fine Ranma, why do you...."

    Ranma wasn't listening though.  "Great! I wonder if she'll want to
spar?"  He hurried towards the dojo hoping to catch her there.

    Ryouko and Nodoka followed, the first with a dark look, the second
with a worried expression.

    Meanwhile, Shampoo arrived in the tree shading the Tendo's yard. She

looked around, and not immediately spotting Kasumi, moved to a spot on
the wall, mostly concealed by the bushes, where she could look into the
dojo.  There she saw her, and watched for a few moments.

    As she did, Kasumi greeted Ranma as he arrived.  "Why, hello Ranma,
did you have a good day?"

    Ranma nodded, "Yeah, it was OK.  You feeling OK, Kasumi?"  He
paused, uncertain how to express his previous worries about her health.
Being uncertain, he just stood there looking pained until she answered.

    "I feel... much better, thank you Ranma."  Kasumi noticed Nodoka
coming in followed by Ryouko, and pointedly looked at her.  "Yes,
Auntie,
can I help you with anything else?"

    Nodoka gazed at the dojo, mildly impressed with the condition of the

floor.  "No dear, That's just perfect."  She looked at Kasumi
significantly.  "Are you sure you're fine, Kasumi dear?  Maybe you
should lay down again?"  She slightly stressed the 'maybe'.

    Kasumi missed the nuance, and smiled back shaking her head.  "Oh no,

Auntie, I feel fine, really."

    Ranma was enthusiastic.  "Great, you wanna spar then?"

    Kasumi's smile faded a bit as she realized her error.  "Oh, no,
Ranma, I don't think I should..."  She looked at Nodoka helplessly.
"I'm not ready."

    Ranma frowned.  "Darn.  OK, Kasumi, if you say so.  Maybe later?" he

asked hopefully.

    Kasumi nodded in relief.  "Maybe, Ranma."  She breathed a sigh of
relief as Ranma left.

    Shampoo noted the exchange, and decided that was enough evidence for

her.  She dropped from the wall and headed back to Cologne.

    Nodoka shook her head as Kasumi wiped a dot of sweat from her brow.
"You must be careful dear, My son is very enthusiastic about the art."

    Kasumi nodded.  "Oh, I know, Auntie, It just didn't occur to me that

he'd want to spar with me of all people.  I mean, he never wants to spar

with Akane in my world, and I just figured... well, how well does Ranma
get alone with me?  The other me I mean?"

    Nodoka frowned slightly in concentration.  "They get along fairly
well as far as I can remember.  My son has shown some signs of jealousy
at her greater skill, but lately he seems to take it more as a
challenge."

    Kasumi's eyes widened.  "I'm... better then Ranma?"  She shook her
head.  "I had no idea.  I really must be more cautious.  Ranma loves
nothing more then a challenge."

    Nodoka's face lit up a slightly.  "My son in your world... He is
really that good?  Who is he going to marry?"  She paused in thought.
"I suppose since Genma brought him here after that training trip, he's
still been engaged to one of Soun's daughters?"

    Kasumi nodded.  "Yes, Akane.  They are truly in love, though they
still deny it occasionally."

    The two started walking slowly back inside.  Ryoko was laying in the

hallway watching Ranma and Akane watch TV, and the two women stopped
just beyond her to finish their conversation.

    Nodoka nodded,  "Well, I'm glad that idea worked out somewhere.  We
tried to put them together too soon here. They're more like brother and
sister than anything else."

    "I see.  That does make sense I suppose.  I wonder what it would be
like, being engaged to Ranma."  Kasumi shuddered, thinking of all the
last second rescues and hairbreadth escapes from doom Akane had
suffered.  "On the other hand, maybe it's better I don't find out."

    Nodoka laughed lightly.  "Do try to remember, you are engaged to
Ranma, at least while you're here"

    Kasumi flinched.  "All the better reason to get back home... Oh I
didn't mean... I do like Ranma, it's just that...."

    Nodoka laughed again.  "Don't worry my dear, I think I know what you

meant."

    Nearby, a confused wolf was trying to puzzle out what she had
heard.  < What's Kasumi up to?  She better not be after my Ranma again!
Why did Nodoka mention the engagement?  Is she going to press it now?
I've got to do something.>

    Kasumi and Nodoka passed her on their way to the kitchen.  She
followed them far enough to see Kasumi borrow Nabiki's apron and start
helping Nodoka with the dinner preparations. < I was right, she's up to
something.>

    Nabiki came downstairs a few minutes later.  "Kasumi?!"  She noted
with a small gasp.  "What are you doing here?" Inwardly she berated
herself for the outburst.  <What am I doing?  She's sure to notice if
I'm that nervous around her....>

    Kasumi smiled serenely at Nabiki.  "I hope you don't mind that I
borrowed your apron, Nabiki, but I just wanted to share this recipe with

Auntie."

    Nabiki shook her head quickly.  "No, that's alright Sis."  She
glanced at the meal being created.  "Wow, it does look good."  She gave
an appreciative sniff.  "Smells great too.   Do you guys need any help?"

    Kasumi's serene look faded to one of astonishment.  "Nabiki?   You
want to help?!"  her voice lifted in surprise.

    Nodoka was a bit late in noticing the gaff, and the two girls stared

at each other as if looking at a stranger for a few seconds before she
could jump in.  "Of, of course, Nabiki,  I was just telling Kasumi that
you might be busy with your homework, but if you'd like to chop up this
celery?"  She motioned to the cutting board and Nabiki nodded slowly.

    "Uh, sure.  I mean, certainly."  Nabiki glanced at Kasumi who had
gone back to her own preparations.  < What did Kasumi mean by THAT?>
She went over to the cutting board as directed and began working.  Soon
a peaceful silence settled over the kitchen.

    A little later the dinner was greeted with much enthusiasm by it's
recipients.

    Akane was quick to compliment the chefs.  "Oh Nabiki, Auntie, this
is great?  Where'd you get this recipe?"

    Nabiki shrugged, looking at Kasumi.  "It was our talented sister.
You should thank her."  Briefly she thought.  < Looks great and he can
cook!> but she quickly shoved the errant thought away.

    Ranma and Genma showed their appreciation their usual fashion, at
least until Soun piped in with,  "Oh, my little girl is such a wonderful

cook, she'll make Ranma a very happy man!"  At which Ranma for some
reason choked on his food.  Kasumi just smiled and nodded.

    Ryouko sat at her usual place near Ranma's side, growling quietly
too
herself.  < She won't get away with this!  This sweet act is too much to

take!>

    That evening, Ryouko heard movement from Kasumi's old room and went
to investigate.  She saw the Kasumi sneaking downstairs silently, and
followed her.  < Oh, please be up to something... I'll show everyone the

real you at last.>

    She watched Kasumi enter the kitchen, open the window and turn on
the faucet, but was shocked when Kasumi apparently transformed into a
small cat.  The cat in question noticed Ryoko, and hesitantly jumped to
the counter, then through the kitchen window to the outside.

    Ryoko rushed around to the back door, but Kasumi was long gone by
the time she had arrived.  Ryoko could sent faintly the white cat that
had been hanging around recently.  < Now what the hell was that?>  She
wondered.  < What happened to Kasumi's curse?  I thought she hated
cats?  I bet she's been playing us all for suckers!>  Frustrated and
unsatisfied with that answer, but unable to find a better one, she went
back to Ranma's room, and spent a sleepless night guarding him.

************************************************

    Frost was starting to get annoyed.  "I'm never going to figure this
out!  I'd have to study the effects of the spell from each dimension to
work out a counter that would have some chance of putting everything
back to normal.  I can't do anything useful from here!"  She sighed.
:"Get a grip, Frost.  You've just got to calm down and think clearly.
As long as I don't lose it and start talking to myself or something,
I'll be fine....  Oops."

************************************************

    Kasumi imagined herself living her counterpart's life.  < Living as
a normal girl, instead of a martial artist?  The Kasumi who is supposed
to
be here has a normal husband, and doesn't have to worry about fighting
crazed martial artists at any time.  She's not married to another girl,
and instead of training everyday she takes care of her familly.>  For an

instant, she wondered if she could take the other Kasumi's place.  Only
for an instant,  Kasumi rejected the idea immediatly.  < This is not my
place, not my life.  I must go home, and I must return their Kasumi to
them.>  Kasumi briefly considered what might be happening to her
counterpart in her world.

    Everyone looked at Kasumi as she started to sweat, her brow knotted
in consternation. < A housewife?  Oh, no!  Mousse!  If he finds out,
he'll hurt her!  Cologne?!  What will she do if Shampoo's 'husband'
can't fight, and doesn't become male?  What will Shampoo do?  And Ranma?

That Kasumi is a married woman!  She can't marry Ranma!  What's
happening to her?>

    Kasumi was getting more and more panicked.  She stood quickly.
"You've got to send me home!  Your Kasumi, she's going to be in a lot of

danger if they find out she's not me!  We've got to hurry!"

    Soun started to have a panic attack as well.  "My Kasumi?  In
danger?  We've got to save her!"

    Kasumi immediately regretted her outburst as Soun broke into
panicked sobs.  "Kasumi, Oh Kasumi!"

    She attempted to comfort him.  "Oh my... No, please don't worry so
much, I'm sure I'm overreacting."

    Soun wailed louder, now certain that his eldest daughter was in
mortal peril.

    Nabiki put her hand on Kasumi's shoulder.  "Kasumi, our Kasumi,
never overreacts.  There is something really wrong, isn't there?"

    Johnathon's hand came down on her other shoulder before she could
answer Nabiki.  He turned her to look at him, slowly but firmly.
"What's wrong?  Why is my Kasumi in danger?"

    Kasumi looked him in the eyes and sighed.  "Most of the people who
would ordinarily be a problem, probably will go easy on your Kasumi when

they learn she's not a martial artist... but Mousse... he'll attack if
he learns her weakness."

    Johnathon looked grim.  "You're engaged to Shampoo there, in your
world?  Mousse wants to kill you so he can have Shampoo to himself?"

    Kasumi shook her head.  "Oh no, Mousse won't kill your Kasumi.  You
see, in my universe I'm actually considered to be married to Shampoo, so

I'm an Amazon by their laws.  Since I'm a female, and married to
Shampoo, I'm considered the senior wife.  If Mousse defeats me, he'll
get both Shampoo and me as his brides."  Kasumi looked away as
Johnathon's face grew bleak.  "I'm sorry, I should have realized
sooner... we've got to hurry and get us switched back."

    Johnathon was shaking his head.  "We can't.  Cologne's in China,
Happosai's missing... anyone who could help us is out of touch."  He
smiled sadly.  "At least Mousse won't kill her."

    Kasumi still looked worried.  "What about Frost?  She's a magus,
maybe she can help?"

    Her words were met by uncomprehending looks.  "Frost?"  Akane asked,

"Who's that?"

    Kasumi shook her head.  "You don't know?  She's a Chinese Amazon
like Shampoo.  I suppose if you don't know her, she must still be in
China."

    Shampoo was shaking her head firmly.  "Is no Frost among Amazons.
Great-Grandmother only one in tribe know any magic."

    Johnathon let go of Kasumi's shoulder and sat back.  "Well then, all

we can do right now is hope.  Maybe someone over there can help our
Kasumi return home."  He looked at Shampoo.  "Shampoo, can you get a
message to Cologne?"

    The purple haired Amazon nodded.  "Shampoo will, but no know if will

help.  Great-grandmother know many things, but crossing dimensions?  I
think is not likely."

    Dr, Tofu stood.  "I wish I could help more, but I'm afraid this is
all out of my power.  I should go and open the clinic now..."  His gaze
was on Kasumi, his words came slowly.

    Understanding, Nabiki stood as well, casually stretching, and
'accidentally' breaking Tofu's line of sight on Kasumi.  The
Chiropractor shook his head and looked at Shampoo.  "Shall we go?"

    Shampoo stood as well, nodding.  She turned to Johnathon.  "Shampoo
will go send message now, will come if needed."

    Johnathon,  nodded to her, and to the doctor.  "You've done all you
could, doctor, thank you. Thank you as well, Shampoo."

    Ranma and Akane smiled gratefully at the pair as they left.  Akane
reached up and gripped Shampoo's hand.  "Thanks, Shampoo."  The Amazon
nodded, the she and her fiancee left.

    Akane sighed and glanced at Kasumi.  Suddenly she smiled.  "Hey
Kasumi?  Would you like to spar?  It'd take your mind off your
troubles."

    Kasumi looked dubious.  "Well I don't know..."

    Akane nodded at her.  "Come on, I won't mind if your better than
me.  Let's go out to the dojo."

    Kasumi sighed, then shrugged.  "Alright Akane, although I think I
should change clothes first."

    Soon, in a gi borrowed from Soun, Kasumi faced off with Akane in the

dojo.  Curious, Ryoga, Nabiki, Ranma, and Johnathon gathered to watch.
As the two combatants squared off, Ranma whispered to Johnathon.  "What
about the Sailor Senshi?  They know about other dimensions and stuff
don't they?"

    Johnathon whispered back, shaking his head.  "I called them.  They
canceled their classes at the dojo to go on vacation right?  They're not

back yet, and didn't leave a current phone number.  I left messages with

Rei's grandfather and the Tsukino's for them to call me if they check
in, but until they do we'll just have to wait."

    Ranma sighed.  "I should have known."  They both turned back to the
fight, which was starting to get out of the preliminary stages.

    Kasumi dodged away from another series of punches, amazed at her
opponent's level of skill. < This Akane is much better than the one I
know.  She's not as fast or as strong as Ukyo, but she's close.>  As if
to prove her point, Akane broke into a slightly clumsy and slow version
of Ukyo's move, the 'chestnut fist'.  Even if it was slower than Ukyo's
version, it was faster than Kasumi could block.  Kasumi spun away after
taking half a dozen light hits.

    "Oh my.  Akane, you're very good!"  Kasumi smiled at the younger
girl as she bounced about the dojo, evading Akane's attempts to close
with her.

    Akane grinned wryly as she attempted to catch the more agile older
woman.  "Thanks.  Ranma's been training me pretty intensively lately."

    Kasumi bounced off three walls and came in on Akane's side, tagging
her with a snap kick.  "I can tell."

    Akane spun with the blow and counter attacked, driving Kasumi back
again.  Johnathon glanced over at Ranma and Ryoga and spoke quietly.
"Kasumi's holding back a bit, isn't she?"

    Ranma nodded.  "Yeah, but not a lot.  I figure she's got a few
advanced moves, as well as that chi attack.  Still, she obviously
doesn't know the chestnut fist.  If Kasumi doesn't use one of her more
powerful moves, Akane could win this."

    Ryoga shook his head.  "Nope, not going to happen, Akane doesn't
stand a chance."

    Johnathon blinked, turning back to the match.  "No?  Akane seems to
have an edge in speed, and Kasumi's not going to use any chi attacks..."

    Ranma peered intently at the two fighters, watching Kasumi take
another series of punches after getting in a few blows herself.  "No,
Ryoga's right, I missed it."

    Johnathon stared.  "What?"

    Ranma nodded at Kasumi.  "Kasumi's gonna outlast Akane.  She's a lot

stronger than she's letting on... and she's using some sort of
channeling technique to keep her strength up.  Akane can't keep up the
chestnut fist speed much longer."

    Ranma was correct.  After a few minutes Akane's speed flagged, and
Kasumi quickly took advantage.  In moments it was over.  Kasumi, looking

relatively fresh, gave Akane a hand up.  "Ranma's done a great job
training you, Akane, you're really very, very good."

    Akane looked pleased.  "Really?"

    Kasumi nodded.  "Really.  You're easily as good as the Ranma on my
world."

    Akane grinned slightly at that, imagining being better than Ranma.
Ranma raised an eyebrow at Kasumi's words, but surprised most present by

not saying a word.  Johnathon stood.  "Why don't we take a break.  I'm
going to help Nodoka-san with lunch, it will be ready in half an hour or

so.

    Ranma grabbed Ryoga's arm as everyone else started moving inside.
"Hey Ryoga, I got an idea.  Let's see if we can hunt down Happosai.  If
we find him, I'll bet he's still got that mirror."  Ryoga shrugged then
nodded.  Ranma called out to Johnathon.  "Hey!  Don't hold lunch for us
man! We'll get something while we're out!  We'll be back before dinner
though."

    Ryoga, listening, suddenly glared at Ranma.  "Hey, why am I going
with you?  You can't just go and tell me what to do!"

    Ranma shrugged.  "Hey, I just figured I might need the help.  If
he's found some way to get his strength back, I'll need help taking the
freak down.  The two of us though, we should be able to handle him even
at full strength."

    Ryoga blinked.  "Oh... well, OK, I'll come along."  The two teenaged

martial artists left quickly, bounding off in their usual fashion.

    Nabiki shook her head disbelievingly.  "I didn't just hear that.
Ranma being diplomatic?"

    Akane smiled at her sister.  "He's been practicing."  Her smile
widened as she looked at Nabiki.  "Speaking of practicing..."

    Nabiki sighed.  "Right, I'll go get my Gi."

    Johnathon smiled at the two girls and turned to walk into the
kitchen.  Kasumi followed after him.  "Johnathon-san, may I help you in
the kitchen?"

    Johnathon blinked.  "Certainly... Kasumi"  His face took on a half
frown.  "It's strange, I don't really know what to call you... Kasumi.
I keep wanting to treat you like my wife, and you're not her...."  He
looked away.  "I'm sorry, that didn't come out very well."

    Kasumi shook her head in denial.  "That's OK.  It must be very
difficult for you.  Kasumi is fine.  Why don't we go into the kitchen?"

    He nodded slowly, then led the way.  They began making preparations
for lunch.  Nodoka excused herself quickly, sensing that they wanted to
talk, and it was tense enough with just the two of them.  For awhile
they worked quietly, just commenting on the menu and preparations.
Before long though they had a break where there was nothing to do but
wait.  Kasumi broke the silence.  "You miss her, don't you."  It was
more of a statement than a question. As she said it she felt it was an
inadequate description.

    Johnathon answered any ways.  "More than anything.  We've been
separated before, in one way or another... too much.  We've been married

only two months now, yet we've been together, as man and wife, for only
around two weeks of that."

    Kasumi looked sympathetic.  "Why was that?"

    Johnathon sighed.  He paused a long moment looking at the oven
before answering.  "We were going to get married along  with Ranma and
Akane.  Soun had his heart set on a double wedding.  Then Cologne
returned from China early, and used the Cat's Tongue point on Kasumi.
She said Ranma would marry Shampoo, or Kasumi would never get the cure.
Ranma and Akane couldn't marry, or Kasumi would never be cured, but we
still could.  I married her that night.  I couldn't bear the thought of
losing her...."  He faltered.  Kasumi waited patiently for him to go
on.  Johnathon sighed and continued.  "We had one, magical night
together... that morning she was splashed by Happosai, and stuck as a
cat."

    Kasumi gasped in horror.  "For... how long?"

    Johnathon closed his eyes.  "We managed to turn her back to human
twice.  For two days we were able to be together thanks to Shampoo
bringing us the water of life... but it didn't last.  Kasumi was
splashed again, and there was nothing more we could do, for almost
another month.  Except for those two days, Kasumi was a cat for over a
month and a half.  Dr. Tofu finally challenged Shampoo and Ranma, and
was engaged to Shampoo.  Cologne delivered the Phoenix pill ten days
ago.  We were finally together.  I even got to introduce her to my
parents... and now she's gone again."

    Kasumi sighed.  "I'm so sorry, Johnathon-san.  I wish she was here
instead of me."

    He nodded.  "I know.  It's not your fault, Kasumi.  We'll fix this."

    Kasumi smiled softly at his confident tone.  < It's easy to see
sometimes why she picked him....> She then glanced away.  "So, Ranma and

Akane... I didn't see a ring on Akane's hand, did they ever get
married?  You didn't say."

    Johnathon glanced back at her.  "Soon.  They didn't want to rush
into it, but they plan to wed right after school starts.  The timing's
not the best, but they didn't want to wait any longer."

    Kasumi looked thoughtful.  "They seem to get along well.  In my
world they grew up together.  They treat each other as brother and
sister.  They fought the engagement so hard that when I returned father
and Genma decided to switch it to me."

    Johnathon blinked, "Oh?  So how is that going?"

    Kasumi sighed.  "I don't know really.  At first I accepted out of
family duty.  I also wanted to give Ranma and Akane a chance to find out

who they really cared about with out the pressure of the engagement."
She thought about it for a moment.  "Well, with everything that's
happened since, especially finding out that I'm married to Shampoo...  I

don't know what to think about me and Ranma.  Ranma's a very nice boy.
Much like your Ranma here in fact.  I don't think he's all that
comfortable with me turning into a man, or with me being a better
martial artist than he is.  We haven't even really gone on a date yet."
She paused thoughtfully.  "He's been very supportive and
understanding... but I'm not so sure he'd want to be married to me, even

if I could get out of the marriage to Shampoo without hurting her."

    Johnathon smiled reassuringly at her.  "Don't sell yourself short,
Kasumi.  I'm sure he does like you.  Our Ranma's never been good at
expressing his feelings, I'm sure your Ranma's the same way."  He
grinned.  "What's not to like?  You are a wonderful person, kind,
compassionate, gorgeous.  What guy in his right mind could resist?"

    Kasumi blinked.  "Do you really think so?  You think I'm gorgeous?"

    Johnathon nodded.  "Absolutely.  You are the second most beautiful
woman I have ever seen, after my wife of course."

    Kasumi giggled.  "Flatterer.  I'm going to tell your wife about
this."

    Johnathon chuckled in response, hiding his sudden growing
nervousness.  < She is gorgeous...>  He controlled his breathing, which
suddenly wanted to come out in puffs.  < Forgive me, Kasumi-chan.>
Johnathon shook his head.  < I really do... find her attractive.  She's
so full of energy, and those muscles... umph!>  Johnathon frowned,
looking away from the woman next to him.  < Down boy!  What the hell is
wrong with me?  This is not my wife, she's married to Shampoo and
engaged to Ranma, and I'm married to my own Kasumi!>  He closed his
eyes, picturing his wife, remembering their last night together.  He
opened his eyes to see Kasumi peering at him curiously.  He tried not to

blush at the thoughts that had been running through his head, and
failed.

    Kasumi looked embarrassed and glanced away.  "Ah...."

    Johnathon coughed.  "Ah...."  He looked at the stove.  "I wonder how

lunch is doing?"

    Kasumi sighed to herself in mild relief and turned to the stove as
well, grateful for the distraction.  < Oh, my.  He's attracted to me.  I

look just like his wife... and she's gone.  What if we can't find a way
to switch us back?  What am I going to do... about him?>

    Just then they both noticed two things.  High pitched laughter, and
a slight whiff of gas coming through the kitchen door.  Johnathon
whirled.  "Kodachi?  It can't be...."  He rushed out of the kitchen
door, holding his breath.  Kasumi followed quickly, copying his
actions.  They entered the living room, to see trailing wisps of gas
leaving the room, and Soun, Genma and Nodoka lying unconscious around
the table.

    Kodachi entered the room, twirling her ribbon.  "Where is my
Ranma-sama?"  She said imperiously.

    Johnathon's eye's narrowed.  "Kodachi...."  He spoke calmly,
concealing his anger.  "When did you get out of the... hospital?"

    She laughed again, the sound was chilling.  "They could not hold a
Kuno of noble birth, such as myself!  Now peasant, I repeat, Where is my

Ranma-sama?"

    Johnathon glanced behind her.  "He's out."  < Where are Akane and
Nabiki?>

    Kodachi didn't miss his glance.  "If your looking for your
sisters-in-law, they will recover... if they receive this in time."  She

held up a small vial.  "Of course, if my Ranma-sama isn't delivered to
me within half an hour or so, it will be too late."

    Johnathon gasped.  "You poisoned them?"

    Kodachi sniffed.  "Hardly a challenge for one of my skills.  Now
where is my Ranma?"

    Johnathon glared at her, carefully keeping his eyes on her, and not
on the figure silently creeping up on her.  An instant later Kasumi
pounced, having gone around through the house after hearing Johnathon
ask Kodachi about the hospital.

    Kasumi captured the hand with the vial and took the container
efficiently away.  "That's enough, Kodachi."  She said quietly.

    Kodachi gaped at Kasumi.  "What?  The housewife?  How is this
possible?  I planned for every contingency!"  With a sudden shriek of
rage, Kodachi pulled a spiked club out of thin air and attacked Kasumi
with it.  Kasumi disarmed her in an instant and pinned her wrist,
turning Kodachi's body in toward her own and holding onto her side.
Kasumi handed off the vial to Johnathon and secured her grip on Kodachi
with her free hand.  The deranged gymnast struggled wildly, with
strength born of insanity, but Kasumi's greater strength and skill were
more than enough to hold her securely.

    "What's wrong with Kodachi?"  Kasumi asked, sounding worried.

    Johnathon groaned.  "She's certifiably insane.  Kodachi must of
escaped from the institution."  He ran towards the dojo.  "Hold onto
her."  When he arrived he was relieved to see Akane shaking her head as
she started to recover from the effects of the sleeping gas that Kodachi

had apparently used on her, attested to by the bouquet of black roses on

the floor.  Nabiki still lay unconscious next to them.

    Akane groaned and sat up, and Johnathon knelt down by her.  "Akane?
How are you feeling?  Kodachi said she poisoned you."

    Akane shook her head to clear it.  "I'm OK, just sleeping gas, I
think.  She must of been bluffing."

    Johnathon frowned.  "Better make sure."  He went over to Nabiki and
scooped her up.  "We're going to Dr. Tofu's right after I call the Kuno
mansion and the police."

    Calling the Kuno mansion, Johnathon was surprised to get a police
sergeant.  Apparently Kodachi's escape from the mental hospital had not
gone unnoticed.  The police had gone to the Kuno mansion first, and
found it deserted.  "We were about to send some men over there, sir."
The sergeant informed Johnathon.

    Johnathon quickly briefed the sergeant on the situation at the Tendo

dojo, and was promised an immediate response.  Johnathon then went back
into the living room.  "Kasumi, can you hold onto Kodachi until the
police arrive?"

    Kasumi nodded.  "I'll manage.  What's wrong with her?  I can't
believe she's gotten so bad."

    Johnathon sighed.  "She's that bad.  We can talk about this later,
but right now I've got to get Akane and Nabiki to the doctor."

    Kasumi nodded.  "Go.  I'll handle Kodachi."

    Johnathon picked up Nabiki again and looked down at Akane.  "Can you

make it?"

    Akane stood, a bit unsteadily.  "I'm feeling stronger every minute.
I think it was just the sleeping gas."

    Johnathon nodded.  "I hope so, but better safe than dead."

    Akane nodded and they headed out the door.  Nabiki woke up halfway
there, but didn't object to being carried the rest of the way.  Dr. Tofu

soon discovered a needle mark on both Akane and Nabiki, but just as
quickly discovered that they were only suffering a mild reaction from a
poison antidote.  That poison was in the vial carried by Johnathon, that

Kodachi had claimed was the antidote.  After careful testing, the doctor

recommended a small dose of the poison to eliminate the side effects of
the antidote Kodachi had administered, apparently by mistake.
(Privately Nabiki thought that Kodachi probably planned it that way,
thinking Ranma would overreact and use the 'antidote' immediately.)

    When they returned to the Dojo, Kodachi had been taken by the
police, and a single detective remained to take their statements.  As
little real damage had been done, the Tendo's declined to press
charges.  Kodachi of course, was to be returned to the hospital, there
to remain for some time under much higher security, as she had
apparently fooled her doctor into thinking she wasn't dangerous.

    When the detective had left, Akane wondered out loud.  "Did Kodachi
make a mistake with the poisons?"

    Nabiki was surprised.  < Guess I'm not the only one who found that
suspicious.>  She didn't voice her thoughts aloud however.

    Kasumi shook her head.  'I don't think she did.  Perhaps there is a
part of her that didn't want to hurt you.  I think she still has a lot
of good inside her.  It's just a matter of bringing out that good and
nurturing it."

    She explained what she knew about the Kodachi on her world.  How the

presence of a close friend, Akane, and a mother figure, Nodoka, had had
moderated the insanity that otherwise might of sent her Kodachi down the

same path as theirs.  It was sobering to Kasumi to think what might of
become of the Kodachi on her world, she promised herself that she would
watch the Kuno girl a little closer in the future.

    Nodoka and Akane had a different sobering thought.  <I wasn't there
for this Kodachi.  If I had been Kodachi's friend/mother, maybe she
would be OK now.>

    Kasumi noticed their long faces and was quick to reassure them.
"You couldn't have done anything.  You didn't even know Kodachi until
this
year, right?  There's nothing you could of done."

    Akane sighed.  "Still, I did know her this last year and I did
nothing.  I wish..." She sighed again.  "I think I'll go talk to Kuno
again, when ever he comes home.  Ignoring him isn't going to change
things.  I'll take Ranma, we both need to talk to Kuno again."

    There was a contemplative silence as everyone dug into their delayed

lunch.  Soun broke the silence.  "So has anyone come up with with an
idea how to bring our Kasumi home, and return this Kasumi?"

    There was a series of doubtful looks exchanged around the table.
Genma spoke up after a bit.  "I have an idea old friend.  To return our
Kasumi, in exchange for this Kasumi, we should simply recreate the
events before their exchange."

    Soun nodded.  "Yes, yes, sensible suggestion old friend.  Yes,
recreate the events."  He turned to Johnathon and Kasumi.  "So
Johnathon-san, you were the last person to see our Kasumi, do you think
you could help this Kasumi to recreate those events?"

    Johnathon stopped breathing  for several seconds.  "Ah, I don't
think that would be such a good idea... besides, wouldn't  our Kasumi
also have to be doing what this Kasumi was doing, at the same time, for
the true recreation of events?"

    Kasumi was starting to look mildly embarrassed.  <I woke up to him
this morning... naked.  Johnathon and Kasumi were only recently married,

were they... having sex last night?>  She glanced self-conciously at
Nabiki.

    Nabiki was actually blushing a bit as well,  Kasumi remembered that
Nabiki's room was the closet to the one she had woken up in.  Nabiki
noticed Kasumi's embarrassed glance and smirked a bit.  "Gee daddy, the
only way that would work would be for Johnathon and Kasumi to 'recreate'

the events of last night over and over, until our Kasumi does what ever
this Kasumi did last night."

    Soun, completely having missed the sarcasm, nodded his head
thoughtfully.  "Hmm, you may have something there, Nabiki."

    Nodoka rolled her eyes.  "Soun, dear, you are aware that Johnathon
and Kasumi are newlyweds?"

    Akane nodded, blushing but also hiding a silly grin behind her hand.

    Soun blinked.  "Eh, what?"  He paused, understanding finally
crossing his face, then embarrassment. "Ah... yes... ah."

    Genma obviously had just realized what his wife was hinting at as
well.  "Ah, of course... perhaps it's not necessary to recreate all the
events of last night, perhaps just the last thing that happened..."

    Everyone stared at him threateningly.  Genma faded backwards
slowly.  "On second thought, perhaps that wouldn't work either...."
With a splash, a panda rolled about the yard, pretending to be
invisible.

    Nabiki smirked again, and decided to get a little pay back for her
last few sleepless nights.  Johnathon and Kasumi tried to be quiet...
but still it was practically impossible to ignore what was going on in
the next room every night.  "Oh I don't know."  She started sweetly.
"I'm sure Johnathon wouldn't dislike 'recreating' last nights events,
would you big brother?"

    Johnathon tried hard not to blush too badly.  Then he protested.
"Nabiki!  I'm a married man.  Happily married!"

    Nabiki smiled knowingly.  "I've been quite aware of that, these last
few days. However, that was not a denial."

    Akane glared at her sister.  "Nabiki, leave John-san alone!  I can't

believe you'd suggest that he and... I can't believe...!"

    Nabiki raised a hand.  "Just kidding, Akane.  Besides, I'm surprised

that you're the one to protest.  I mean, I am next to your room too..."

    Akane blinked, and shut up, pretending to be innocent.

    Nodoka and Soun glanced at Akane interestedly.  Soun nodded,
murmuring to himself.  "Hmm, about time I say.  Yes, about time."

    Nodoka also nodded.  "I did suspect... it is good they are marrying
so soon."  She looked every bit as pleased as Soun at her 'manly' son.

    Akane buried her face in her hands and groaned.  "Nabiki!"

    Nabiki just smiled and looked innocent.  "What?  Me?"

    Johnathon shook his head wryly.  He and Kasumi had been aware of
Akane and Ranma's recent 'activities' but he'd decided to let them bring

it up, since they intended to marry soon, and Akane had been taking
precautions for some time.  < Ranma's due for an unpleasant surprise
when he gets back.  I wonder if the wedding will be moved up now?  I
don't think it really matters.>

    Kasumi was incredulous at Nabiki's suggestion that Ranma and Akane
were...  Kasumi blushed.  < It's hard to believe.  Ranma and Akane are
so much closer on this world than mine.  My Ranma doesn't feel that way
about Akane at all, does he?>  Kasumi shook her head faintly.  < No of
course not, he treats her like a sister.>  Kasumi was still blushing
faintly.  < I wonder, what it might be like...>  Inadvertently she
pictured Ranma's face.  < He's younger than me but....>  Kasumi willed
the image away.  < If we marry, it will happen I suppose, but that's not

guaranteed by any means.>  She sighed.  < I'm equally likely to end up
with Shampoo, and I'm already married to her, technically.> Kasumi found

herself wondering what might happen between her and Shampoo.  <Shampoo
is attracted to my male form.  She wants us to be married in truth
rather than in writing.  I don't know if I can be what she wants me to
be, without losing myself.>

    Time passed slowly.  As it started to get dark, Ranma and Ryoga
returned from a fruitless search.  Genma and Soun grinned as the
pigtailed martial artist entered.  "Ranma my boy!"  Genma exclaimed.
"We've heard about recent events!"

    Soun took on a stern look.  "I'm glad to hear you and Akane are
getting along, son.  I must however, insist you push up the wedding
date."

    Ranma blinked and took a look in Akane's direction.  She nodded
imperceptibly.  He sat down heavily and tried to keep his breathing
slow.  Ryoga glanced from Ranma to Akane, suspicions flaring, but said
nothing.  Ranma gathered himself.  He and Akane had discussed this
possibility earlier.  Still, it wasn't easy.

    Ranma nodded and spoke.  "I intend to marry Akane as soon as it's
convenient, Mr. Tendo.  We set the date for next month to give us time
to prepare.  We don't want to be rushed again."

    Soun looked about to protest, and Nodoka intervened.  "You have a
date picked out?"

    Akane nodded quickly.  "The eight, on Sunday.  That way we can break

it too the school first.  We've already made some arrangements...."

    Nodoka nodded.  "That sounds fine, dear.  I don't think there's a
need to rush this faster, with things as they are... do you, Soun?"

    Soun blinked, then surrendered.  "The eighth.  Very well.  I will be

looking forward to it."

    Ranma and Akane looked astonished at their easy victory.

    Nodoka brought them down to earth.  "So, Akane, how have you been
feeling recently?  Any sickness in the morning?  Might we perhaps be
expecting a change in the near future?"

    Akane blushed as she caught Nodoka's implications.  "N-no...
Auntie.  We've been... taking precautions... I'm really not ready
to...."

    Nodoka looked mildly disappointed.  "Oh.  Well, there's no need to
wait any longer, Akane my dear.  There's nothing wrong with your first
being a month or two premature....  I'm sure Kasumi and I could help you

until you're finished with school."

    Ranma looked confused, while Kasumi just look a bit stunned.
Akane's eyes were a bit wide, but she couldn't think of anything to say.

    Nodoka smiled reassuringly, and stood.  "Well, as it is getting
late, my husband and I will be going.  We'll return tomorrow morning."

    Genma stood and followed his wife obediently, and they left
together.

    Johnathon stood as well.  "Kasumi, could you help me with dinner?"

    Kasumi shook herself out of her shock and blinked.  "Hmm?  Oh,
certainly, Johnathon-san."

    When they were alone in the kitchen, Kasumi quietly spoke up.  "What

are you going to do?  About your Kasumi?

    Johnathon glanced at her.  "I don't know... what do you mean?"

    Kasumi sighed.  "About everything... what do you thing we should do
about getting her back?  What if we.. if we... can't get her back."

    Johnathon's eyes flashed and his words came out harsh.  "Don't even
think that.  We'll get her back.  I'll get her back.  It'll happen!"

    Kasumi sighed, almost in apology.  "Oh, I very much hope you're
right.  I'm sorry.  I won't mention it again."

    Johnathon's look and voice softened.  "No, I'm sorry.  I have no
reason to snap at you.  You have a good question... all I can say is,
I'm not giving up.  We just have to wait and see if we can find someone
who can help."  He shook his head.  "I don't want to consider not
getting her back.  For now... for now we'll make do.  I'll move into the

guest room with Ryoga until this is resolved.  you should sleep in our
room... I mean where my Kasumi sleeps... usually.  Perhaps Genma had a
small point at least....  If you're in the same spot as you appeared...
I don't know how you changed places in the first place... but if there's

any chance...."

    Kasumi nodded.  "That seems best...."  She broke off and they went
back to preparing dinner.  After several minutes she broke the silence.
"Was there anything....  Do you remember anything about last night...
that might have caused... what happened?"

    Johnathon shook his head.  "No, nothing, nothing at all.  That's the

worse part, really, not knowing how it happened."  He frowned.  "There
had to be something... anything.  There has to be a reason this
happened.  Things like this don't just happen by themselves.  It has to
have been caused by something, or someone."

    Kasumi nodded.  "That's reasonable, but what, or who?"

    Johnathon shrugged.  "I can't say.  The Jusenkyo curse might have
something to do with it... From everything I've heard and experienced,
the curse tends to make our lives more chaotic.  That might be an
exaggeration... but perhaps there is more to the curse than just
transformation.  If it's a who, however... then it could have been...
well, there's no way to tell, really.  Here, there's no one that wishes
Kasumi harm.  I can't think of anyone who would cause her to vanish."

    Kasumi sighed again.  "I'm afraid I can think of a few people who
might wish me gone in my world... but I'm here now, and there's no way
to find out."

    Johnathon nodded, frowning again.  "You're right.  There's nothing
we can do about someone in your world.  The only thing we can do is
assume there is something we can do here."

    Kasumi shrugged helplessly.  "But what?"

    Johnathon shrugged back.  "What do we know?  You both have several
things in common, besides the fact that you are both Kasumi Tendo.
There's the Jusenkyo curse... I wouldn't think that's meaningless.
Assuming that there are many different universes, I would hazard a guess

not that many Kasumi Tendo's have a Jusenkyo curse."

    Kasumi furrowed her brow.  "That does sound reasonable.  Your Kasumi

and I also have a few other things in common.  Cologne used the Cat's
Tongue on both of us, and we were both cured of it after over a
month....  We're both married... technically at least.  We were both
sleeping at the time it happened...."

    Johnathon nodded, then paused.  "Ah, this is a bit... impolite,
but... you said you were technically married to Shampoo...."

    Kasumi nodded slowly.  "Yes, why do you ask?"

    Johnathon looked away.  "It's none of my business of course,
but...."

    Kasumi blinked.  "You want to know if Shampoo and I... sleep
together?"  She blushed simultaneously with her counterpart's husband.

    Johnathon winced.  "Y-yes....  It might be... significant... if you
were... doing what Kasumi and I were... doing... at the same time....."
He flinched.  "That's really, REALLY none of my business.  You don't
have to answer."

    Kasumi, still blushing furiously, shook her head.  "No... it's OK.
Shampoo has her own room.  We've never... done... anything... like
that...."

    Johnathon nodded quickly.  "Right, say no more."  He looked
embarrassed and relieved at the same time.  "That means, probably,
that... that, has nothing to do with you and my Kasumi changing places."

    Kasumi blinked, then nodded.  "You're right."  She glanced wearily
at him, then smiled.  "You were actually considering what Mr. Saotome
said, weren't you?"

    Johnathon blinked.  "What?  No!  No way!  I wasn't suggesting that
we....  I wouldn't!"

    Kasumi shook her head with a chuckle.  "Don't worry about it.  I'm
teasing."  She smiled again, sincerely.  "Let's finish up dinner, shall
we?"

    Johnathon sighed and nodded.  "Sure."

    Dinner went quietly enough.  Johnathon's announcement that he would
be sharing the guest room with Ryoga came as no surprise.  Everyone went

to bed soon after dinner.

    Ranma checked up on C-chan, who had been shut up in his room ever
since Kasumi had come back.  The kitten was happy to see him, and
hungry, so Ranma got him some food and water.  He played with the kitten

for awhile after it had finished, feeling guilty about keeping him
cooped up.

    Akane slid his door open as Ranma was busy rubbing the kitten's
stomach.

    She smiled warmly at the scene.  "Ranma...."

    The pigtailed martial artist looked over at his fiancee.  She was in

her pajamas and looked extraordinarily cute.

    Akane winked at him.  "I was thinking, Ranma... since everyone knows

now... about us... that maybe... maybe I could sleep in here tonight?"

    Ranma swallowed.  "S-sure, Akane.  I'd... I'd like that...."

    Kasumi was restless in the unfamiliar bed.  When she finally did get

to sleep, it was fitful and plagued with nightmares.  At one point she
woke up on the floor, soaked with sweat, the image of a fearsome cat
like monster, hunting her, foremost on her mind.

    Kasumi checked the clock.  < 3:30 in the morning.  I should be
sleeping.>  She sat down on the side of the bed, fingering the
unfamiliar night gown she had borrowed from her other selves dresser.  <

I'm not used to sleeping like this....>  Kasumi shook her head.  < It's
more than that... it's Johnathon... I'm... I'm petrified of his cursed
form... and he normally sleeps here....>  Kasumi shook her head wildly
from side to side.  < No!  I won't let my fears control me!  Johnathon
seems like a nice man.  He wouldn't hurt me....  It's just my fear...
just a dream.>

    Kasumi sighed and got to her feet.  < Might as well work out a bit,
until I can go to sleep without waking up again.>  Kasumi rummaged
through her counterpart's clothing, and finally gave up.  "Nothing to
train in.  I wonder if Johnathon would mind if I borrowed some of his
things...."

    After a bit of searching she found a black tee shirt and sweat pants

that fit well enough, if a bit long.  It was just a bit longer than what

she usually wore, her male form would probably fill it out just fine.
She slipped out of her other selves room and headed quickly for the
dojo.  Moments after she closed the door a silent white flash came from
the bed, but there was no one to see.

    Kasumi reached the dojo without making a sound.  She went to the
center, bowed to the family shrine, then began a simple kata, looking
for balance in the art.  Kasumi went from kata to kata, advancing slowly

in difficulty and speed until she was at the peak of her skill.  When
she hit her peak she held it, and pushed for more speed.  Kasumi felt
herself getting sloppy, and slowed down, finished the final kata at
normal speed.  She stopped, feeling lightly fatigued, and started
heading into bed.

    As Kasumi exited the dojo she noticed it was raining lightly.  She
hurried inside, but the change manifested before she got into the
house.  Kasumi debated changing back, then decided against it, not
wanting to wake anyone in the house this early in the morning.  She
snuck back into her counterpart's room and slipped into bed after
pulling off her slightly wet outer clothing.  As she was male, she
didn't bother to put on a dry shirt before going to sleep.