Switching Heirs:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Twenty-

	Her light blue kimono blew in the wind as the oni Ganglot 
surveyed her surroundings from her place floating high in the 
atmosphere. Suddenly a piercing pain invaded her mind and grimacing 
she shakily reached her hands up to clutch at the sides of her head.
	"Stop fighting it," hissed Ganglot through her barely opened 
lips. "This is all for the best I tell you. It's either merging or separation 
and I'm almost completely certain that you couldn't survive a 
separation of souls. And once I'm done the both of us will have been 
improved for the better. You'll have powers no mere girl your age 
should possess and I'll be rejuvenated by the taste of humanity you 
give me. We won't be two but one and we'll stronger for it."
	After saying this the pain resounded in her mind once again 
and snarling viciously the demon was enveloped in a brilliant light. 
Seconds later the light faded and becoming still she floated in the air 
with her head lowered.
	Releasing a sigh Ganglot said, "Foolish child. You're 
determined to fight this till the end. I can only hope that your 
comrades will convince you better than I of the advantages to my plan 
because without your cooperation I cannot proceed. And you, my 
little vixen, seem to know that all too well."

	"Well," said Happosai with some satisfaction. "It looks like 
we're all set and ready to go."
	"So it would appear," murmured Kuno thoughtfully while he 
adjusted his knapsack which was tossed over his shoulder. Turning 
his gaze to Ranma he questioned, "Where is your luggage old friend? 
Surely you will not be wearing such casual attire to your own 
wedding."
	Eyeing his faded jeans and red tank top humorously Ranma 
replied, "Of course not. It's just that Shamchan said we're going to be 
wearing specially made outfits for the big ceremony so I figured why 
bother packing?"
	"Especially when you won't be needing clothes for the one 
activity that's going to take up the largest portion of your stay there," 
said Nabiki slyly.
	After this comment was voiced several of the adults gave her 
disapproving looks while Perfume quietly chuckled next to her Airen. 
In the meantime Happosai took a puff from his pipe and said, "She 
has a dirty mind that girl. I enjoy it."
	"You would," said Cologne dryly. Her gaze moved through 
the crowd and sought out the oddly subdued figure of Nodoka. A 
moment passed before dark brown eyes met Cologne's but when they 
did an unspoken communication passed between the two and the 
electricity in Nodoka's gaze sent the Matriarch a message that was all 
too clear. "There's going to be trouble," she said with a soft sigh. "But 
if all goes well it shouldn't start until after the wedding."
	"If all goes well," Happosai said as he mulled over her words. 
Taking another puff from his pipe he too looked at Nodoka and 
continued, "A nice thought but tell me, when have things ever gone 
well for us?"
	As a response Cologne simply frowned and averted her eyes 
to Ganglot who was floating down to meet them at ground level. 
Scanning the group Ganglot said, "It appears that everyone is here so 
lets not delay anymore."
	With that the demon tilted her silver head back as she closed 
her golden eyes and extended her arms high into the air. A bright blue 
glow encompassed all of those present and suddenly in a flash of 
blinding light they were gone. Leaving behind them only a few stray 
strands of wafting blue smoke inside the now empty yard to the 
Tendo dojo.

	The first thing group noted when they arrived in Joketsuzoku 
was the fact that they were in the midst of a rather large and violent 
stampede. Shampoo summed up all their feelings when she cried out 
in surprise, "Aiyaah!"
	Moving quickly the lavender haired Amazon grasped both of 
her Airen by the hand and leapt into the air pulling them with her to 
avoid being flattened by the incoming mob. Perched on the roof to a 
nearby hut Ranma questioned, "This sort of thing happen a lot in your 
village Shamchan?"
	"Sometimes," Ukyo noted wryly as she watched the villagers 
continue to flee from the unknown menace. "But usually they're 
running after someone and not doing the running themselves."
	"First hand experience, huh?" asked Ranma playfully.
	"You better believe it sugar," Ukyo replied.
	Her eyes narrowed Shampoo looked to Perfume who had 
followed her course of action quickly and was perched on the roof to 
another hut that had the rest of their group settled on it as well. 
"Cousin!" she called over the sound of the mob. "Can you see what 
they is running from?"
	Rising to her feet Perfume scanned the distance with her 
expert gaze before her sapphire eyes went wide at what she saw 
approaching them. "No," she whispered in low tones of disbelief. "It's 
not possible."
	"Perfume baby?" questioned Nabiki in concern. "What is it? 
Can you tell what's happening?"
	Snapping out of her dazed state Perfume looked to Nabiki 
and grabbing her hand she shouted, "Everyone get away from here! 
Follow the path of the tribe, we must escape while we still can!"
	"Perfume?" said Cologne in bafflement as she watched her 
protege exit with a very confused Nabiki being held in her arms. 
Cologne had never seen Perfume that scared. What could have 
caused it? Turning back to look into the distance she observed a 
massive flying figure nearing the group. As it grew closer to them 
Cologne recognized it from the bedtime stories of her youth. "A 
dragon," she said in hushed tones.
	Releasing a low wolf whistle Ganglot floated towards Cologne 
and commented, "It's a dragon all right. That's pretty rare these days. 
I wonder where it came from? I haven't seen one of them in eons."
	"That's because most of them vacated the Earth in the early 
thirteenth century," informed Ryoga wisely. "They just couldn't deal 
with the increasing population of mankind and left for other 
dimensions."
	"Dragon?!" screeched Genma loudly. "What's a dragon doing 
around here?!"
	Next to him Nodoka said, "I hardly recall dragons being 
around when we visited this province."
	"Must be a new attraction," said Natsume numbly.
	"Yeah," agreed Kurumi nodding her head.
	"Odd," murmured Kodachi while eyeing the dragon carefully 
as it flew past them. "It seems to be ignoring the villagers in pursuit of 
other game. Particularly that of our buxom Amazon friend and her 
financier love interest."
	"Nabiki!" wailed Soun as he burst into a flood of tears. "That 
thing is going to fricassee my little girl!"
	"Perfume!" Cologne mimicked Soun's tones of panic as she 
realized the dragon was indeed pursuing the Enforcer. Turning to 
Ganglot she said, "If you even a drop of humanity in you from 
Sakura's influence you'll help me now. Perfume cannot possibly stand 
alone against such a force."
	"Well," sniffed Ganglot, folding her arms across her chest. 
"That is possibly the worst request for a favor I have ever heard but 
I'll help you nonetheless. I've got nothing against the Amazon and her 
little girlfriend."
	With that the oni floated into the air once again and all in the 
group were enveloped by the same blue glow from before as an 
energy sphere surrounded them. A very surprised Ukyo landed with a 
thump next to Ranma and Shampoo as Ganglot transported the 
threesome into the sphere which was now moving at a very quick 
pace after the exiting dragon.
	"What's going on?" asked Ukyo as she carefully rose to her 
feet and looked at Happosai.
	"We're chasing after that dragon," said Happosai. "It went too 
far going after pretty girls." His eyes gained a strange gleam that was 
all too familiar to his disciples as he declared, "And I've vowed to 
protect all pretty girls!"
	"From who?" muttered Ranma lowly. "Yourself?"
	Happosai scowled at this and was about to reply when Ukyo 
exclaimed, "It's after Nabchan?!"
	Covering her ears Kurumi winced at the volume that her 
adopted sibling had used. "Apparently," she said quietly. "It does 
appear to be following the trail that Perfume took."
	"It after Cousin?" asked Shampoo her eyes turning wide. 
Looking to Cologne she questioned, "Why dragon be after Perfume 
and Nabiki?"
	"Some dragons have fetishes for young girls," mused Ryoga. 
"Maybe it wants concubines."
	All eyes turned to Ryoga and the lost boy backed into the 
edge of the sphere while he gave his high pitched nervous laugh at the 
myriad of hostile glares he was receiving. At his side Akane heaved a 
sigh then said fiercely, "Who cares why it's after Oneechan? We've 
got to stop it!"
	"But how?" said Kasumi in tones of quiet worry. "How can 
we possibly stop a dragon?"
	The only response Kasumi's question got was the wave of 
overwhelming silence that filled the energy sphere as the group 
pursued the dragon with utmost tenacity.

	"Faster Airen!" cried Perfume as she clutched Nabiki's hand 
more tightly in her own. She was weaving through the thick foliage of 
the forest as she tugged Nabiki along after her. The Amazon had been 
forced to release her hold on the other girl as Nabiki began to protest 
the situation after a few minutes so now they were running together at 
a somewhat frightening pace. "I think we may have lost it but is better 
to be safe than sorry!"
	"Why," gasped Nabiki. "Would that thing be after us?"
	"I has no idea," said Perfume. "But whatever it reasons are I 
won't let anything happen to you Airen."
	Looking up at this Nabiki studied the flexing back muscles of 
the girl ahead of her and said softly, "I know you wouldn't Perfume 
baby." Snapping out of this sentimental state of mind Nabiki asked, 
"How did you know it was after us so quickly? I just thought it was 
flying past."
	"I don't know," Perfume said in puzzled tones. "I just have this 
bad feeling in pit of my stomach when I see it. So I grabbed you and 
ran... it was instinct."
	Smiling wryly Nabiki commented, "Protecting me was your 
first instinct? I'm flattered."
	"You shouldn't be," said Perfume seriously as she ducked 
underneath a large branch. She suddenly whirled around and hefted 
Nabiki into her arms as she leapt deftly onto the large stones in the 
river they were crossing. "That's how it is supposed to be. People 
should always protect the ones that they love and I love you Airen."
	Stunned into silence Nabiki stared at the strong lines of 
Perfume's profile before she noticed the large shadow that was 
looming over them. Lifting her head she gasped as she saw the dragon 
hovering above them. It's ruby red eyes flared to life and releasing a 
deafening roar the dragon dove at top speeds towards the frozen 
couple.
	It was then that Nabiki abruptly pushed herself out of 
Perfume's arms and shoved the Amazon into the rushing water of the 
river. Releasing a scream of terror Perfume haplessly flailed in the 
strong current of the river as she watched Nabiki run from the dragon 
which was blowing fire from its mouth as it pursued her. Perfume 
quickly grabbed onto a loose vine that had landed in the river to stop 
her path down current but by then it was too late. The dragon 
had Nabiki in its scaly claws. Seeing this Perfume pulled herself out of 
the river and moved her legs into high gear. Pushing back on her heels 
for a large jump Perfume barely managed to grab onto the unknowing 
dragon's tail as the creature flew off into the distance.
	Holding on tightly Perfume tried to ignore the anguish her 
body was feeling from the scratches she received from her fall in the 
river. At times like this she cursed her body's hypersensitive reaction 
to any type of physical pain. While she was trying to block out her 
own discomfort it dawned on Perfume exactly what Nabiki was doing 
when she had shoved the Amazon into the river.
	Nabiki had been trying to protect her from the dragon. She 
wanted to give Perfume an opportunity to escape while she dealt with 
the dragon that she theorized was in fact chasing after her and not the 
Enforcer. Her eyes filling with tears Perfume remembered the speech 
she had given just before the dragon struck. Was that what had 
motivated her Airen to do what she did?
	Setting her jaw Perfume settled her sapphire gaze on the 
weakened form of Nabiki who was passed out inside the tight grip of 
the dragon's scaly claws. "Nabiki," she said with desperate emotion. 
"I promise to protect you just like you did for me. That's how it 
supposed to be." 

	The woman known as Hibiki Atsuko was lost.
	It was something she was entirely used to but ever since she 
had settled down in her old childhood home the pull of the magic there 
had kept her wandering in check. That wasn't the case today as 
Atsuko had been traipsing through the forest rather aimlessly for over 
ten hours now.
	"Am I still in China?" Atsuko wondered to herself as she 
scratched the back of her long fawn colored hair.
	Still mulling over this question she had presented herself with 
Atsuko squinted at the large shadow that loomed over her briefly. 
Tilting her head backwards she stared at the large scaly creature that 
was flying overhead. Atsuko's gaze followed the creature's departure 
into a large cave located in the mountain side and she remained frozen 
before a slow feral smile spread across her sharp features.
	"That thing was big," said Atsuko while she ran her tongue 
over the tips of her fangs. "And I'm hungry..."
	Releasing a low chuckle she propelled herself forward with 
the speed of a cheetah as she dodged through the heavy foliage and 
headed towards the mountain cave. It had been far too long since her 
last good hunt.
	
	"Can't you make this thing go any faster?" asked Ukyo with a 
growl as she sidled up next to Ganglot.
	The silver haired oni looked to Ukyo and responded coolly, 
"Tracking magical resonance isn't like following footprints in the mud. 
It takes finesse and time." She then turned to face forward. "Don't you 
worry your pretty little head my chosen. I'll find your friends soon 
enough. I can already follow the trail towards the mountain ahead."
	Frowning Ukyo looked at the aforementioned mountain and 
said, "There? It does have that big hole in the side of it. That's about 
the right size for that dragon to be able to live inside it." Sandalwood 
eyes darkened as the chef continued to stare at the cave. "You know, 
something just occurred to me," said Ukyo casually. "You can't merge 
with Sakura unless I help you, right? So that means you're pretty 
much screwed without me. I could change my mind at any moment 
about whether or not I wanted to be imbued with your powers. And I 
figure that you can't force me to do it because if you could you 
would've already done it. So this all has to be of my free will and for 
that you need my cooperation." Lifting her eyes Ukyo bore her harsh 
gaze into Ganglot's features and said, "I'm going to ask again, don't 
you think that we could be going faster?"
	"Of course we could," said Ganglot tightly as she set her jaw 
in certain annoyance. "My chosen."
	"Good," said Ukyo shortly before returning her gaze to the 
mountain cave as the energy sphere that was holding them suddenly 
increased it's pace with incredible speed.
	Standing next to Happosai and watching this scene closely 
Cologne murmured, "It seems that your heir isn't quite as complacent 
as she appears."
	"I'm glad about that," said Happosai smiling. "For far too long 
I've had disciples lacking any backbone." At this he nodded his head 
towards Soun and Genma. "And look where it got me? The only time 
they ever showed any real gumption was when they tried to seal me in 
that cave." Happosai gave a snort before he continued, "But they 
managed to fail even at that. I like that my little Ukyo is a spitfire. It 
makes things far more interesting."
	"I suppose," said Cologne quietly. "But something about this 
whole situation bothers me. The Hibiki boy is right. Dragons have 
been gone for centuries and there have never been any spotted in 
Amazon territory. That being so, where did this one come from? And 
would it feel the need to pursue my Great Granddaughter?"
	"Perhaps the Musk?" suggested Happosai while his eyes 
turned towards their mountainous homeland that lay off in the 
distance.
	Cologne shook her head. "No, it couldn't have been the 
Musk. Their current leader may possess the blood of a dragon but he 
hardly turns into one."
	"Ah yes," said Happosai as a lecherous smile crossed his 
features. "Herb-chan. I really must visit her while we're in the area. 
She has such a robust figure."
	"You're a sad and pathetic creature and I really have no idea 
why I ever was fond of you," said Cologne lowly.
	"I'm hurt," Happosai sniffed. He paused a moment and 
rubbed his chin as he said slowly, "But Herb-chan and the rest of the 
Musk gained their animal bloodlines because of their family's 
Jusenkyo involvement..."
	"And if Herb has the blood of a dragon then that means that at 
one time there must've been dragons living in this area," finished 
Cologne in wonder. "I think I have it figured out Happy. What we 
saw isn't a true dragon but rather a person who holds the Jusenkyo 
the curse of one."
	"Makes sense," said Happosai thoughtfully. He then looked 
back to Cologne and leaning in closer he formed his lecherous smile 
again as he questioned, "Do my ears deceive me or did you just call 
me Happy?"
	At this inquiry Cologne blushed slightly before lifting her staff 
and giving Happosai a hard whack on the head with it before walking 
away from him. Crumpled on the bottom of the energy sphere 
Happosai said, "I knew it. She still likes me."

	<Wake up!!>
	Nabiki groggily regained consciousness to these words 
reverberating in her head. Moaning she touched her aching forehead 
and muttered, "What in the hell...?"
	<Silence!>
	Repelling at this being shouted in her mind Nabiki gasped as 
she looked up into a fearsome face of scales and glowing ruby red 
eyes. The dragon smiled and when it did several rows of sharp teeth 
were revealed causing Nabiki to back further into the cave wall.
	<Don't speak. I can hear your thoughts just as you can hear 
mine. If you want to stay alive you'd best keep silent. Do you 
understand me Tendo Nabiki?>
	Nodding her head Nabiki bit her lip and replied mentally, 
<What do you want?>
	<What do I want?> the dragon's voice chuckled inside of her 
mind. <You disappoint me Tendo-san. I had thought you would have 
figured things out by now.>
	Hazel eyes narrowed then flared in recognition as Nabiki 
hissed, "Mousse."
	<Don't speak!!!> Mousse dragon's voice roared inside of her 
mind causing Nabiki to recoil in pain. He opened his mouth to reveal 
his sharp teeth and a wisp of fire floated from his lips. <I told you not 
to speak Tendo-san. Don't force me to dispose of you before your 
allotted time.>
	<You're going to kill me,> Nabiki stated.
	<Of course,> replied Mousse dragon as he smiled slightly. 
<Why else would I go to such lengths to gain this form? There's no 
way you can defeat me in this body and with it no one will ever 
suspect my involvement in your death.>
	A slow smile curling on her lips Nabiki said, <I think you're a 
little too late for that Mousse. Somebody was here when I said your 
name and she definitely has the best hearing out of everyone I know. 
She's standing right behind you so I doubt that you'll miss her. Just 
look for the Amazon with the murderous expression on her face.>
	Mousse dragon slowly turned his head to look at a seething 
Perfume who was indeed wearing a murderous expression on her 
lovely features. She flexed her hands and instantly her double bladed 
axes appeared in her grip as she shouted in rage, "DIE!!"
	Immediately Perfume flew at Mousse dragon who observed 
as the object of his obsessions flew at him in certain homicidal rage. 
Without a doubt he knew that at this moment Perfume did want to kill 
him. He wasn't sure exactly how invulnerable his new body was but 
now wasn't the time to test it out. The one thing Mousse did know 
was that Perfume possessed a hypersensitive nervous system. 
Something that would make her vulnerable to even his slightest attack. 
	Narrowing his ruby red eyes by a notch Mousse dragon 
opened his mouth to breath a stream of fire at Perfume who dodged 
the blast and flew at him with her axes extended for a killing blow. 
Just as she was about to descend upon his neck Mousse dragon lifted 
his tail and batted her away like she nothing more than a fly. Knocked 
unconscious Perfume flew across the cave but she never made 
contact with the wall because a swift moving Mousse dragon grabbed 
the Enforcer in his scaly grip.
	"Mousse!" shouted Nabiki as she shakily pushed herself to 
her feet. "You let Perfume go! She doesn't love you, she'll never love 
you! Especially after this!"
	<Silence!!>
	The voice of Mousse dragon echoed in Nabiki's mind with 
such force that she released an anguished scream and fell to her knees 
grabbing at her hair as she tried with all of her might to stop him from 
taking her sanity.
	Gently replacing Perfume onto the cave floor Mousse dragon 
turned back to Nabiki who was slowly regaining her sense of self. 
Feeling him upon her she lifted her hazel eyes and stared into his fiery 
red gaze. Clenching her jaw Nabiki rose to her feet and hissed, "You 
don't realize what you're doing do you? If you kill me Perfume will 
hate you forever. She'll hate you and then, along with my family and 
friends, she'll hunt you to the ends of the earth until she has your head 
in her hands."
	<I said silence!!> seethed Mousse dragon telepathically as he 
lowered his fearsome head only inches away from Nabiki's. <Your 
attempts to make your death swift are futile Tendo-san. As I said 
before I plan to make your demise a long and torturous one.>
	Nabiki was about to reply when she saw movement out of the 
corner of her eye. For a brief moment she thought it was Perfume but 
a quick look to the right revealed that the Enforcer was still 
unconscious. It was then that a loud battle cry filled the air and a feral 
looking woman with unruly fawn colored hair landed in front of Nabiki 
on all fours.
	"This one's not for eating," the woman growled in rough 
sensual tones. She smiled reveal to a pair of sharp fangs which eerily 
reminded Nabiki of the rows of teeth that she had seen in Mousse 
dragon's mouth. Rising languidly to her feet the woman continued, 
"You're the one that's meant for eating. You big scaly chicken."
	With wide eyes Nabiki observed as the mystery woman 
pounced on Mousse dragon and grabbed his neck in a death grip as if 
she was about to snap it in half. In response to this action Mousse 
dragon began flailing about wildly as he tried to shake the woman off 
his back. All such attempts were met with hearty laughter as the 
woman declared, "Are you trying to fight back, you big scaly 
chicken?! Try all you want but you'll never win! I'm hungry and you're 
my lunch!"
	"Big scaly chicken?" mouthed Nabiki to herself as she 
watched the woman battle Mousse dragon.
	As the battle raged on Nabiki snapped out of her dazed state 
and hurriedly rushed to Perfume's side. The Amazon Enforcer seemed 
to be in perfect health but with her hypersensitive nervous system 
Nabiki couldn't be sure if that was really true. Gently she pulled 
Perfume closer so the Amazon Enforcer's chestnut head rested in her 
lap. Leaning forward Nabiki pushed several stray locks of hair out of 
closed sapphire eyes and numbly studied fine features before she 
placed a hot searing kiss on Perfume's forehead.
	The kisses soon increased in number as the desperation inside 
Nabiki grew larger. She had to do anything... anything to wake 
Perfume up. Her lips stopped next to the unconscious Amazon's ear 
and her voice shaking Nabiki said, "Please wake up Perfume baby." 
Wearing a look of panic Nabiki touched the planes of Perfume's face 
with trembling hands. "You have to wake up. I can't go through this 
again. I can't lose you like I lost Mother. I just can't... I'm not strong 
enough. I really do need you... please don't leave me... you're my 
Bobo."
	The splash of teardrops hitting her face brought Perfume out 
of her dark slumber and blearily opening her eyes she was met with 
the sight of her calm and collected Airen sobbing over her. Weakly 
attempting to lift her head and her body protesting this action with 
waves of unending pain Perfume said, "Nabiki?" Her eyes darkened 
and her jaw clenched she asked, "Did Mousse hurt you?"
	"No," said Nabiki with a half sob as she pressed her face into 
the crook of Perfume's neck. "He didn't hurt me."
	Blinking at this Perfume questioned quietly, "Is you crying 
over me, Airen? If that's so please don't... I not hurt that badly. I'll 
survive as I always have." Weakly she lifted a hand to caress Nabiki's 
cheek. "After all, I have everything to live for with you at my side. I'll 
not be leaving this world until we've spent many happy years 
together."
	The only response Nabiki gave to this was another sob as she 
moved even closer to Perfume as she clung to the Enforcer's lithe 
form. The pair remained like this until Nabiki sharply lifted her head 
and hazel eyes narrowed as she gazed into the distance at an 
approaching form. Perfume followed suit and chuckled when she saw 
just who were inside the energy sphere heading their way.
	Nabiki looked curiously at Perfume upon hearing the chuckle 
and wiped her tear stained face with the back of her hand as her usual 
droll manner returned. "And what, pray tell," Nabiki began dryly. "Is 
so funny?"
	"Nothing," said Perfume coyly as she formed a smile that 
matched her tone of voice. "I just imagining what Great Grandmother 
and rest of tribe be wanting to do to Mousse when they find out what 
he do here. It involves very sharp weapons and ancient torture 
practices."
	"Ah," said Nabiki smiling in return. "Tell me more about these 
ancient practices, Bobo."
	Chuckling again Perfume slowly pushed herself higher up into 
Nabiki's comforting hold to better observe the battle Mousse dragon 
was immersed in. "Who's that woman?" she asked after a moment. 
"She fights very well."
	"I don't know," said Nabiki with genuine confusion. "She 
showed up out of nowhere and attacked Mousse calling him a--" 
Nabiki paused to snicker. "Big scaly chicken that she planned on 
eating."
	"A big scaly chicken," repeated Perfume smiling. "It fits. 
Well," she said slowly as she gave a chuckle. "Whoever she is I 
definitely like her."
	"Me too," murmured Nabiki as she pulled Perfume even 
closer to her. "Me too."

	The energy sphere abruptly halted in its hurried approach 
causing its occupants to go flying and squash into Ukyo who was 
standing in front beside Ganglot. Prying herself free from the mass of 
arms and legs Ukyo lifted her oak brown head to look Ganglot who 
was transfixed at the battle going on below.
	"Hey!" said Ukyo irately while pushing herself to her feet. 
"What do you think you're doing? Why'd we stop?"
	Ignoring Ukyo completely Ganglot continued to stare at the 
ground below with frozen wonderment as she said in soft choked 
tones, "Atsuko."
	"Atsuko?" repeated Genma and Nodoka. The couple 
followed the oni's gaze and studied the agile figure who was pounding 
on the dragon. They knew of only one person in the world who could 
fight like that and who looked like that. And it was someone they had 
both wanted to see again for a very long time. Scrambling forward the 
couple pressed against the energy sphere and yelled, "Atsuko!"
	Seconds later Ryoga joined them at the edge of the energy 
sphere and shouted at the top of his lungs, "MOM!!"
	Moving their eyes to Ryoga in certain shock Genma and 
Nodoka said, "Mom?"
	"Atsuko," whispered Ganglot in barely decipherable tones. 
"So grown up..." She remained frozen watching while Atsuko paused 
in her thrashing of the dragon to look up at them and wave heartily. 
"And just like her father."
	"That's Ryoga's mom?" asked Ranma curiously. He moved 
forward to peer at the action below. Looking at the lost boy he 
grinned and said, "She's a pretty good fighter buddy. I can see where 
you get it from."
	"Is true," said Shampoo in agreement. "But maybe we should 
still go and try to help her pacify dragon, yes?"
	On hearing this Ganglot snapped out of her dazed state and 
moved the energy sphere into a horrifying descent to the ground that 
stopped only centimeters from the surface. The energy sphere popped 
releasing its inhabitants and soon as it did Ryoga went barreling 
towards Atsuko who was occupied with jumping up and down on the 
battered and barely conscious Mousse dragon.
	"Mom!!" Ryoga called out, waving his hands wildly as he ran 
to her.
	Turning around Atsuko took in the form of Ryoga with wide 
fawn colored eyes she called in return, "Ryo!!"
	When he reached her Ryoga engulfed Atsuko in a running hug 
of massive strength as he said, "I'm so glad to see you Mom! It's been 
so long..."
	"I know Ryo," said Atsuko sadly. "I tried to find you back in 
Japan but I somehow ended up by my old home and I've been here 
ever since." She was about to say more but Mousse dragon released 
a growling protest about the two Hibikis standing on his backside. "Be 
quiet you big scaly chicken," ordered Atsuko as she stomped on his 
head with her bare foot. "You're mine and little Ryo's lunch now."
	"Uh, Mom...?" began Ryoga hesitantly. "Don't you know what 
this is?"
	"My lunch," answered Atsuko brightly.
	While Ryoga sighed at this the nearing Nodoka said to 
Genma humorously, "She's still like you. Always thinking about her 
stomach. Some things never change."
	Moving her gaze around her son Atsuko studied the couple 
for a moment before she said, "Genchan? Dokachan? You're here 
too?" Blinking she took in the whole group of travelers with wide 
eyes. "Soun-kun? Old lady Cologne? The Happy pervert?" She 
scratched the back of her head and asked rather haplessly, "Is this a 
reunion?"
	"In a way," said Ganglot quietly as she pushed through the 
crowd and walked towards Atsuko. "This could be considered a 
reunion for all of us... my daughter."
	"Mama?" Atsuko breathed in disbelief as she took in 
Ganglot's form with wide searching eyes.
	"Yes," replied Ganglot, her voice shaking with emotion. "It's 
me baby. I'm finally back."
	"MAMA!!" shouted Atsuko ecstatically as she ran to Ganglot 
and enveloped her in a hug of such strength that no one human 
could've survived it.
	"Mama?" repeated everyone except Happosai who was 
smiling and puffing on his pipe.
	"Ah," said Happosai in satisfaction. "I do love seeing a 
wholesome family reunion." Walking over to Ryoga he tapped him on 
the leg and after a moment the stunned lost boy looked to Happosai. 
"Don't you think that you should apologize to your Grandmother for 
your previous treatment of her?" Happosai questioned.
	Paling Ryoga said nervously, "Grandmother? She's my 
Grandmother? But there's no way--!"
	Turning to her son Atsuko still clung to Ganglot's waist as she 
said, "You know Mama already Ryo? But she's been gone for so 
long... how did that happen?"
	"I'm sharing the essence of a mortal girl," informed Ganglot 
gently. "That's how I'm here now. I believe you've met her Atchan. 
Her name is Kurasawa Sakura."
	"Cherry blossom girl?" whispered Atsuko. Releasing her hold 
on the oni her eyes filled with betrayal. "Why would you steal her 
body Mama? Did she do something mean to you? Is that it?"
	"Atsuko," said Ganglot in soothing tones while she reached 
out to tenderly cup her daughter's cheek. "I had little choice. She was 
the only one who approached the cursed springs that could bring me 
to you. I needed her help."
	Mulling over this Atsuko finally lifted her gaze and said simply, 
"It's not right Mama. It's her body... not yours. I... I..." Trailing off 
Atsuko choked back a fresh wave of tears as she bunched her hands 
into fists. "I missed you lots and lots but I don't want you back like 
this! It's stealing Mama! And Dokachan always told me stealing is 
wrong! That's why she doesn't like the Happy pervert!"
	"Atsuko," Ganglot said helplessly. "I don't know what to 
say..." Her golden eyes glazed over and setting her jaw the oni said 
lowly, "Very well. You'll have your way."
	"Mama?" said Atsuko in puzzlement. "What did you say?"
	"Nothing baby," murmured Ganglot kindly as she lightly 
touched Atsuko's cheek again. "It was nothing." The oni looked to the 
still frozen Ryoga and smiled playfully. "I see you're still in shock 
Grandson. Surely I'm not that much of a surprise? Didn't Atchan tell 
you of your family origins?"
	Snapping out of his shock Ryoga scratched the back of his 
head and offered, "Not really. I mean... I don't even know who my 
Dad is. She did mention having some pretty unusual parents and my 
Grandfather being a great warrior."
	"That he was," said Cologne fondly as she neared the group. 
Poking Mousse dragon in the nose with her staff she said, "But now 
we ought to be concerned with this creature. I see you've tamed him 
quite thoroughly Atsuko."
	"Oh yeah!" said Atsuko beaming. "The big scaly chicken was 
no trouble. He's all flames, no bite. Not very skilled at all. I save 
pretty girl and stomp him good."
	"Pretty girl?" questioned Ukyo.
	"She means me," said Nabiki sardonically as she neared the 
group with Perfume leaning against her. "Or at least I hope she does."
	"Nabchan!" cried out Ukyo happily.
	"Oneechan!" shouted Akane.
	"My baby!" sobbed Soun. He then rushed towards his middle 
child who accepted his embrace with a wry look while she tried to 
keep his tightly squeezing arms away from the hypersensitive figure of 
Perfume.
	When the couple managed to disentangle themselves from 
Soun's grasp Perfume met Cologne's gaze and said in steely tones, 
"The dragon is Mousse. He tried to use this form to kill Nabiki and 
escape punishment for his deed."
	"Mousse," hissed Shampoo as she knelt down to stare into 
the depressed dragon's face. "I should have known it was you behind 
this. You stupid Mousse. No listen to Cousin when she say no to you 
and now you be banished or killed for your stubbornness. Hope you 
happy."
	On hearing this Mousse dragon's ruby red eyes flared to life 
and releasing a monstrous roar he suddenly sprung to his feet in a 
thunderous movement that caused all who were standing on his 
backside to go flying. Only seconds later as those who'd been thrown 
were just recovering they looked up to see him flying off into the 
mountains in the distance.
	"Mousse!!" shouted Perfume with horrifying rage as she 
pushed free of Nabiki's hold and rushed towards the edge of the cave 
to watch his departure. "You coward! You won't escape me! I'll kill 
you for this! I swear it!"
	Nabiki cautiously approached her Airen and when she felt it 
was safe wrapped a comforting arm around Perfume's shoulders while 
the Amazon pounded the ground in certain frustration. Sapphire eyes 
lifted to reveal their tormented tear filled depths and pulling Perfume to 
her for an intense hug Nabiki whispered, "It's all right Perfume baby. 
Don't let this get to you... I'm fine. Now that we know it's him we 
have a safety net. He can't trick us again."
	"I'll kill him," said Perfume quietly in tones of eerie calmness. 
"I'll kill him. I have to--"
	"No," interrupted Nabiki as she covered Perfume's lips with 
gentle fingers. "I'm not going to let anger consume you. I know what 
you're thinking... that I could've ended up just like Lotion and that it's 
all your fault. That's not true Perfume baby and I'm damn well not 
going to let you think that it is." Grabbing the Enforcer's chin Nabiki 
forced their gazes to meet and said coolly, "Well I'm not Lotion. I'm 
Nabiki. My own person and not her replacement."
	"Airen..." said Perfume painfully as she touched the planes of 
Nabiki's face in reverence. "I know who you is. You isn't replacement 
for anyone. Not even Lotion. I just... no can lose you like I lost her. 
Today I failed to protect you from Mousse. What if he comes back?"
	"Then he comes back," said Nabiki with false bravado. "So 
what? We can handle him."
	The last thing Nabiki wanted to do was face Mousse again in 
that frightening new form of his but she'd be damned if she was going 
to let him control how she ran her life. If she lived in fear she'd be 
giving him that control and if there was anything Tendo Nabiki didn't 
hand over easily it was control.
	"She's right Perfume."
	The couple moved to look at the smiling form of Ukyo with 
Ranma and Shampoo at her side. Kneeling down next to them Ukyo 
continued, "You can't let this get to you Perfume. That's what Mousse 
wants, to have some sort of meaning in your life. Well don't let him 
have it. And besides," said Ukyo slyly. She turned her head to look in 
the direction that Mousse dragon had disappeared. "I doubt that he's 
going anywhere. Take a closer look at that mountain range he was 
heading towards."
	Sapphire eyes followed Ukyo's gaze and Perfume soon wore 
a broad smile as she said, "The Musk. That idiot flew right into their 
territory."
	"The Musk?" questioned Ranma. "What's that? Some tribe of 
fragrance makers?"
	"Is funny Ranchan," said Shampoo rolling her eyes as she 
bumped shoulders with him. "But no. Musk been around for very long 
time. Ancient tribe of all male warriors who is descended from 
Jusenkyo cursed animals they turned into women. Have powers and is 
very dangerous. They not be liking Mousse invading their lands."
	Snickering Nabiki helped Perfume to her feet while holding an 
arm around her waist she said, "All's well that end's well. I guess we 
should head back to the village and tell them all about our little 
adventure." She turned her eyes to the threesome then gave a sneaky 
smile. "Not that we want to hold up the wedding of course."
	"Of course," said Ukyo, Ranma, and Shampoo warily before 
the group broke out into laughter.
	
	"You're dating her, Ryo?" asked Atsuko curiously. She 
formed a thoughtful expression while she circled Akane in a catlike 
manner. "And dark pretty girl is daughter of Soun-kun and Kimiko?"
	Wrapping an arm around Akane's shoulder, who was quite 
nervous about Atsuko's study, Ryoga laughed then replied, "Her 
name's Akane not dark pretty girl, Mom."
	"Both work," commented Atsuko. She paused in front of the 
couple beaming widely she exclaimed, "You make handsome couple 
little Ryo!" Atsuko looked to Akane and cupping her hands she 
continued, "You keep track of him for me, okay? I can't do it. I get 
lost worse than Ryo ever does. You'll do that for me, won't you 
Akane?"
	"Of course!" exclaimed Akane smiling, instantly losing all her 
anxiety at Atsuko's friendly nature.
	"So," said a low teasing voice. "This is where you've been all 
these years my barbarian."
	Whirling around quickly Atsuko looked at Nodoka and 
laughed nervously. "Here and there Dokachan," offered Atsuko 
lamely. "I do wander much."
	"Mmm," said Nodoka, wearing a secret smile. She looked 
past Atsuko to the two teenagers and said, "We adults need to do 
some catching up amongst ourselves. Would you both mind leaving us 
for a few moments?"
	"Sure thing," said Ryoga in puzzlement as he took Akane's 
hand. Walking away from the group he looked back at Atsuko and 
said, "See you later Mom?"
	Offering him a weak smile Atsuko replied, "If I'm lucky Ryo!"
	"Weird," said Akane while watching Nodoka and Genma talk 
to the Atsuko who was backing herself into the cave wall. "What do 
you suppose that was about?"
	"Who knows?" Ryoga shrugged. "Anything's possible when it 
comes to Mom. After all," he said while he looked at Ganglot. "It 
turns out I'm part oni."
	"About that," began Akane gently. "How does it make you 
feel? I mean... I know it must be a shock but how do you feel about 
her? Ganglot I mean."
	"I don't know," said Ryoga slowly. "I know that she's my 
Grandmother and Mom loves her but I've been so used to hating her 
for what she did to Sakura... and now they're both merging together. 
What am I supposed to feel?"
	Leaning into his side Akane said, "Don't worry Ryochan. It'll 
all work out in the end. I could be wrong but something tells me 
Ganglot might not want to merge with Sakura anymore."
	"What?" said Ryoga as his dark head jerked up. "Why would 
you think that Akane?"
	"I don't know," murmured Akane thoughtfully. "It's just a 
feeling I have."
	Mulling over this Ryoga sighed then said, "I hope it's true 
because anything is better than losing them both."
	"Them both?" asked Akane gently.
	"Yeah," said Ryoga sheepishly. "Oni or not she is my 
Grandmother. I should get to know her."
	"That's my Ryochan," Akane said playfully. "Always so honest 
and mature."
	Turning beet red Ryoga coughed before he smiled and said, "I 
learned from the best."
	"Mmm," murmured Akane thoughtfully as her eyes turned 
back to Atsuko. "So you did."

	"Atchan," began Genma slowly as he searched her features 
with confused eyes. "You've been here all this time? But when I came 
here with the girl I looked for you..."
	"I have much skill at hiding so it wasn't so hard to hide from 
you big huggy Genchan," said Atsuko as she wore the same lame 
expression from before.
	"But why would you want to hide?" asked Genma in 
puzzlement. "Why did you stay away for so long?"
	"Yes," continued Nodoka as her dark brown eyes studied 
Atsuko carefully. "And why would you hide Ryoga's parentage from 
him? I notice that he said he doesn't know who his father is. Why is 
that?" She shifted her eyes towards the lost boy who was now 
chatting with Ukyo and the others. "I also noticed that Ryoga's the 
same age as Ranma. Who was conceived in the time you lived with us 
in my ancestral estate. Quite the coincidence is it not?"
	Genma's eyes went wide at this statement and he followed his 
wife's gaze to stare at Ranma and Ryoga. In that moment Genma 
recognized the overwhelming physical similarities of the two boys and 
turning back to Atsuko he whispered, "Atchan...?"
	"Why did you hide him from us?" asked Nodoka in tones of 
confusion and hurt. "We could've raised them together as the true 
brothers they are."
	Ducking her head Atsuko mumbled something unintelligible 
and Nodoka questioned, "What was that?"
	"I said," Atsuko pronounced tightly. "That I did come back. It 
was three seasons that I returned home to see you both. You were 
married with little Ran running around..." Lifting her fawn colored eyes 
Atsuko accused, "You told me lies Dokachan! And lying is bad! You 
always told me that but you did it anyway. You said that you'd never 
get married after what happen with shiny flute Amazon but I came 
back and you had married my Genchan!" She paused to sniff and fold 
her arms across her ample chest. "I decided take little Ryo where he'd 
be wanted."
	At this comment Nodoka paled significantly while Genma 
gritted his teeth and forcibly grabbed Atsuko by her shoulders and 
shook her. "Are you crazy woman?!" he hissed lowly. "We would've 
wanted him! We wanted you dammit! I can't count how many nights 
we'd sit in that damn museum and wait for you to walk in the door!"
	"Genchan?" asked Atsuko in quiet surprise. "Is true? You're 
not tricky fibbing like always?"
	"No," said Genma sighing as a fond smile passed over his lips. 
"I'm not tricky fibbing. We always wanted you to come back 
Atsuko... the both of us."
	Atsuko shifted her gaze to Nodoka and questioned hesitantly, 
"Dokachan? Is true?"
	"Is true," said Nodoka softly. "Your leaving broke what was 
left of my heart after Silk. Genma and I married because of my 
pregnancy. He wouldn't let me soil my honor by being an unwed 
mother but we always hoped that you would return and make our 
family whole. Without Genma and Ranma I'm not sure that I could've 
gone on. Especially after I thought I had lost you as well."
	There was a long moment of silence before Atsuko broke out 
into loud sobs that exceeded the volume of any of Soun's crying fits. 
Still wailing she pulled the pair into a tight hug as she wailed, "I'm 
sorry!"
	
	"Huh," said Ranma in wry observation. "It looks like your 
Mom and my folks are pretty tight Ryoga."
	"I guess so," replied Ryoga as he watched his Mother's odd 
behavior. "But I didn't know that she knew anyone from Nerima. She 
never mentioned them."
	"If you ask me," said Nabiki seriously. "I think the adults are 
doing a bang up job of hiding things from us."
	Shampoo nodded vigorously at this. "Nabiki is right. They act 
like have many secrets."
	"Well," said Ukyo slowly as she rubbed the back of her oak 
brown head. "It'd hardly be the first time that happened. Right big 
sisters?"
	"It seems that," began Natsume.
	"Secrets are common in this group," finished Kurumi.
	"I wouldn't worry," said Kuno sagely. "All secrets are 
eventually revealed. Trust in this."
	"Exactly," agreed Kasumi smiling. "Everything will be 
explained in time as it usually is."
	"Yeah," murmured Ukyo. Sandalwood eyes focused on the 
forms of Kodachi and Ganglot as she said lowly, "But personally I'm 
more interested in the present than the past."
	Following Ukyo's gaze the rest of the group silently agreed 
with her sentiments. There were things far more significant to the 
outcome of their lives going on in the present day than anything that 
occurred in the past. All they needed to do was look at the oni 
Ganglot to know this.

	"Kodachi," began Ganglot. "I'm afraid there has been a 
change in plans."
	"Oh?" said Kodachi while tipping her head to one side. "And 
what change would that be?"
	"The merging cannot happen," Ganglot stated bluntly. She 
stared at the ground to avoid meeting Kodachi's gaze. "In its place 
we'll use the only other option. Separation."
	"Separation?" Kodachi blinked. "But you made no mention of 
this option before..."
	"That was because I had no desire to employ it," said 
Ganglot, her shoulders stiffening as she turned away from the dark 
gymnast to face the cave wall. "The separation process will be difficult 
and painful. There is also the chance that we both will perish in the 
attempt if our souls cannot unwind."
	"Then why do it?" asked Kodachi angrily. In a swift 
movement she whirled the oni around and hissed, "I demand to know 
why you're now willing to risk not only your life but the life of my 
Sakura darling!"
	"Because," said Ganglot as she released a sigh. "I can hear her 
calling for this. Just as Sakura could hear my thoughts in the back of 
her mind I can hear hers and I know quite well that she wants this. 
She wants us separated so she can be a whole person once again. 
And I..." Ganglot trailed off as she placed a loving gaze on Atsuko. 
"Do not wish to shame my daughter any further. Atchan was right 
when she said I had stole Sakura's life from her and it's time that I do 
something about that. For the good of us both."
	"She wants this?" asked Kodachi with quiet desperation. 
Suddenly she grabbed the edges of the oni's kimono and shook her 
slightly as she said, "Tell me! Tell me exactly what Sakura wants!"
	Closing her golden eyes Ganglot sagged against her 
companion and murmured, "I shall do better than that. I'll let her tell 
you herself."
	"What?" whispered Kodachi. "What do you--"
	The dark gymnast abruptly halted in her speech as Ganglot's 
eyelids began fluttering as a bright blue aura formed around the oni. 
When it faded several seconds later golden eyes opened to look at 
Kodachi with icy determination.
	"Dachi," pronounced Ganglot in clipped tones. "I don't want 
you to try and stop me. I gotta do this. There's no way I'm gonna 
share my life with this twisted creature." In a swift movement she was 
breathing into Kodachi's ear with savage discontent, "And there's no 
way I'm ever gonna share you." Pulling back her golden eyes glinted 
as Ganglot wore a rakish smile. "You're mine, or did you forget that?"
	"Sakura darling?" whispered Kodachi, her violet eyes filling 
with tears. "Is it truly you?"
	"Yeah," responded Sakura-Ganglot shortly. "It's me all right. I 
only gotta few more seconds before she's back in charge though so I 
want you to listen good, okay?"
	"Of course," replied Kodachi shakily. "I shall listen with all my 
heart to whatever you tell me my love."
	"That's good," said Sakura-Ganglot grimly. "Because what 
she said was right. I want this separation and I want it as soon as 
possible. I know why I was acting so screwy Dachi and it was 
because of her. This is my body and my mind and I want her damned 
oni soul out of it!"
	"But you could die..." said Kodachi, horrified at the prospect 
of living without Sakura. To her it was better to live with some of 
Sakura in Ganglot and vice versa than not to have the street fighter at 
all.
	Gritting her teeth Sakura-Ganglot grimaced then said, "I don't 
have much time left but you gotta listen to me Dachi! If I die isn't what 
matters... my freedom is what does. I need myself back. I gotta be my 
own person again or I'll be dead anyway! Can't you see that me 
merging with Ganglot is just like killing me? By doing that you're 
replacing both of our true selves and putting them together to make an 
entirely new person. That isn't right Dachi. Please," she said in a 
desperate plea. "Help me do this. It's the only way I'll be happy again. 
Dying doesn't matter as long as I'd be myself again."
	"Sakura darling..." said Kodachi as she buried her face in the 
other woman's neck and began sobbing. "I promise that I'll do as you 
have requested."
	"Dachi," breathed Sakura-Ganglot who was wearing a small 
smile of pure happiness. "Thank you."
	"Sakura darling?" asked Kodachi fearfully.
	It was then that the blue aura from before flared around the 
oni once again and when it faded Ganglot sagged against Kodachi. 
"So," she began softly. "Did she tell you what she wants?"
	"She did," said Kodachi in choked tones. "And I promised to 
do as she wills. It is her decision to make and I will abide by it. 
Anything less would dishonor the love that we share between us."
	Pulling away from the dark gymnast Ganglot leaned against 
the cave wall for support and said, "We'll have to get started right 
away."
	Kodachi was about to respond when suddenly Ganglot swiftly 
moved in front of her as the air before them blurred in multicolored 
streaks and when it faded the figures of three women were revealed.
	The one in front looked very similar to Cologne as she clung 
to a walking staff of her own but was slightly taller than the Matriarch. 
Her hair was more gray than silver and unlike Cologne there was a 
certain eerie solemnity in her gaze that made many looking at her 
move back with some uncertainty. Behind the old woman was the 
figure of a curvaceous warrior with long purple hair who fiercely 
wielded a sword as she inspected the occupants with narrowed eyes. 
The last in the group was a svelte woman who wore in an elegant blue 
and gold dress whose appearance made all three Tendo sisters gasp 
in memory of those familiar features.
	"Mother?" they echoed together.
	"I'm afraid not little ones," said the woman with gentle 
understanding. "My name is Silk, one of the Lore Masters of 
Joketsuzoku."
	"Enough dramatic introductions," groused the purple haired 
woman next to her as she moved forward. "I thought we were here to 
hunt dragons."
	"Comb," said the old woman leading the group. "Take a look 
around. Do you see any dragons?"
	Before the warrior named Comb could say anything more on 
the matter Shampoo began to jump up and down while she cried out, 
"Mother! You come meet my Airen!"
	"Mother?" said Ukyo dumbly.
	Next to her Ranma smirked and commented, "It looks like 
we're about to meet our Mother-in-law. Lets pray to the Kami that 
she likes us Ucchan."
	As a response Ukyo moved to step behind Ranma and 
watched nervously as Comb approached.
	"Shampoo?" said Comb. "What are you doing here?"
	"We follow dragon here," replied Shampoo happily. "It chase 
Perfume and Nabiki but lost boy's Mother defeat it and we find out 
dragon is really Mousse."
	"Mousse?" questioned the old woman. "How is it that he's the 
dragon that was flying overhead?"
	Hopping forward Cologne informed, "Your Grand Nephew 
used the Jusenkyo springs to take on that form in order to further his 
pursuits of Perfume."
	"Cologne," said the old woman with calm humor.
	"Lotion," replied Cologne in the same tones.
	"You look so young," they both chorused.
	Rolling her eyes at this Silk scanned the large group with her 
tawny gaze only to stop abruptly at the haunted face of Nodoka who 
met her gaze with an open look of both longing and sorrow. Setting 
her jaw Silk turned away from the other woman and walked over to 
join Comb who was busy interrogating her daughter's Airen.

	"So," said Comb slowly as she narrowed stormy eyes to 
inspect Ukyo and Ranma like they were cattle. "You're the two 
who're going to marry my little girl."
	"Yeah," said Ukyo weakly. "That'd be us."
	Stopping directly in front of the okonomiyaki chef Comb 
leaned in so there was only an inch between their faces and 
questioned, "Weren't you a boy the last time I saw you?"
	Releasing a nervous chuckle Ukyo rubbed the back of her 
oak brown head and said, "Yeah well..."
	"Mother," scolded Shampoo as she hooked her arm in 
Ukyo's. "You making Airen nervous. And stop pretending like you 
not know Ucchan has Jusenkyo boy curse."
	"You're ruining all my fun," Comb sniffed before she moved 
her inspection onto Ranma.
	The pigtailed boy was rocking back and forth on his heels and 
noting her attention he grinned. "Hey," he said amiably. "I'm Saotome 
Ranma. How you doing?"
	"Saotome?" Comb questioned.
	"Yeah," Ranma replied. He looked past the nearing Silk 
towards his parents and continued, "My Dad's Saotome Genma and 
my Mom's Shinguuji Nodoka."
	Blinking at this Comb began laughing and looked to Silk who 
was standing at her side. Elbowing her companion in the ribs she said 
through her constant laughter, "You'll never guess who my Shampoo 
is marrying!"
	"Who?" asked Silk who had begun smiling soon as she 
entered her old friend's presence.
	"She's marrying Ranma," said Comb as she wrapped an arm 
around his shoulders. "Who is none other than the son of Genma and 
Nodoka." Roaring now Comb pulled away to wipe at the tears 
forming in her eyes from the heavy laughter. "I never would've 
guessed it." She looked to Ranma and then said wryly, "Consider 
yourself very lucky kid. You don't look anything like your father did at 
your age."
	"Thanks," said Ranma. "I think..."
	"Don't fret," said Silk warmly. "It was meant as a 
compliment." Her eyes rested on the Tendo sisters who were still 
staring at her in certain awe. "This must be disturbing for you," she 
murmured sympathetically. "I don't suppose that Soun has ever spoke 
of me?"
	The normally shy Kasumi was the first to reply as she said, 
"No. He never did. Were you and Mother related?"
	"We were distant cousins," replied Silk smiling. "And 
somehow we both ended up looking incredibly similar. Call it the 
eighth wonder of the world."
	"Huh," Comb snorted. "I still call it freakish."
	"But no one asked you," said Silk sweetly. She gave the other 
woman a sharp elbow to the ribs much like the one she herself had 
received earlier. "Did they?" Silk turned her attention back to the 
group and stopped her gaze on Ukyo. "I must say," she began in 
observation. "That you're interesting to me. Confident and timid at the 
same time with limitless potential at your fingertips." Silk then added 
slyly, "It's too bad that you're a disciple of the ancient pervert. He's 
ruined any future you might have had working in the respectable 
realms of the art."
	"Hey!" exclaimed Kurumi. "I'd take that..."
	"Back if I were you," finished Natsume indignantly.
	Shifting her focus to the twins Silk said, "Oh? And why should 
I do that? It happens to be the truth little ones."
	"Don't call us little," began Natsume tightly.
	"We're nineteen!" finished Kurumi stiffly.
	Silk chuckled quietly before she raised an eyebrow and 
questioned, "Do you two always start and finish each others 
sentences? It's quite charming."
	The twins blinked at the oddity of this question and Kurumi 
replied sheepishly, "Not really. It's become a habit."
	"A habit that most people find annoying," continued Natsume 
coolly.
	"Well," said Silk smiling. "I'm not most people."
	Narrowing her eyes at this statement Natsume simply turned 
away from the Lore Master and strode across the cave towards 
Happosai with Kurumi tagging along after her. The group watched 
their departure and Ukyo sighed then offered in explanation, "The 
Master raised big sisters Natsume and Kurumi since childhood. It 
only causes trouble to insult him in their presence." Ukyo locked her 
eyes with Silk's. "And mine as well. He may be a pervert but he's still 
our Master."
	Looking fascinated Silk murmured, "I'm impressed at the 
loyalty you three show for him. It's unusual given how his past 
disciples performed in that arena."
	"Pops," said Ukyo warily as sandalwood eyes sought out the 
form of Genma who was involved in conversation with Nodoka and 
Atsuko. "Yeah. He's not exactly the most loyal disciple when it comes 
to the Master. That's probably why he made me his official heir and 
took in my big sisters. I guess the Master wanted a better crop of 
disciples and I can't really say that I blame him."
	"Kind of funny how his better crop consists of nothing but 
bountiful girls," said Comb in dry observation.
	Silk looked thoughtful at this statement and Shampoo said in 
chiding tones, "Mother! Demon Master not possible to know Airen 
end up such robust girl when she little! He took her in out of what little 
goodness in his evil heart."
	Shooting Ranma a wry look Ukyo questioned, "Was that said 
in my defense?"
	"I think so," replied Ranma smirking. "But I'm not entirely sure 
so don't quote me on that."

	"So those are Shampoo's Airen," murmured Lotion as she 
inspected the group from a distance. "Impressive power for such 
youth. No wonder you were intrigued."
	"They are a handful," said Cologne wryly. "But no more than 
their predecessors were at their age."
	Chuckling Lotion replied, "It must run in the line. Tell me of 
Ganglot. Why, or rather, how is she here?"
	"It's complicated," Cologne sighed. "And now isn't the time to 
discuss it. Particularly when we know the tribe is waiting your arrival 
to explain the whereabouts of the dragon you were sent to pursue."
	"Mousse," Lotion said sadly. "I can't believe he would do 
such a thing. What could have possibly possessed him?"
	"Love," said Cologne philosophically. "Can do many strange 
things to a person."
	Hopping ahead of Cologne and towards the group Lotion 
replied, "You would know. It was you who used to have a thing for 
Happosai over there."
	"Lotion," growled Cologne in warning tones. "I thought I told 
you never to bring that up!"
	Snickering at this the elder Lore Master stood in the center of 
the cave and called out, "I think it's well past time that we returned the 
village. They'll want to know of all that has gone on and I believe 
there's a wedding upcoming."
	On hearing the word wedding Ukyo, Ranma, and Shampoo 
exchanged an anxious look that didn't slip past the attention of Comb. 
With a nod of her head Lotion closed her eyes and suddenly the same 
multicolored vortex appeared to draw the group inside of it. Seconds 
later when she opened her eyes they were standing in the middle of 
Joketsuzoku with several gaping members of the tribe staring at them.
	After a moment of shocked silence the surrounding people all 
began speaking at once in excited tones.
	"<It's the Matriarch! She's returned to us!>"
	"<Bless the goddess!>"
	"<The dragon! Did you destroy the dragon?!>"
	Cologne moved forward with an unprecedented joy on her 
features she waved her hand and the crowd immediately grew silent 
before she began regaling the tale of the recent events and the past 
months living in Japan.
	"This will take awhile," said Lotion in Japanese as she turned 
to face the group. "I suggest we go about our business while she 
calms the rest of the tribe." Forming a sneaky smile she added, "There 
is a wedding to plan after all."
	"Leave it to me Elder!" responded Comb boisterously giving a 
salute. Abruptly she grabbed Ranma by the arm and started tugging 
the pigtailed boy after her. "C'mon Saotome. We have to get you 
outfitted for your wedding. The tailor makes everything for it new and 
special. That even includes the underwear."
	"Underwear?" repeated Ranma. Turning back to Ukyo and 
Shampoo, who were watching him in combined amusement and 
surprise, he shot them an anxious look.
	Watching their departure Ukyo said, "It includes an 
underwear fitting, huh?"
	"Yes," said Shampoo with a nod. "At wedding have all new 
outfit. Everything is special made for body type."
	"So it's a good bet that Ranma honey will be naked in the 
tailor's place?" asked Ukyo getting a strange gleam similar to 
Happosai's in her sandalwood eyes.
	"Is so," affirmed Shampoo again.
	"Y'know," began Ukyo thoughtfully. "What with Ranchan 
being such a prude about making us wait until our wedding to have 
any serious fun... this might be the best opportunity to check out the 
goods, huh?"
	Shampoo met Ukyo's eyes in solemn gaze and coming to a 
silent agreement they disappeared in a cloud of dust as they pursued 
the figures of Comb and Ranma.

	"Wow," said Ryoga smiling. "It's just as pretty as I remember 
it." Looking to Akane he continued, "Want me to show you around?"
	"Maybe later," said Akane hastily wearing a somewhat 
nervous expression at the idea. Hooking her arm with his she 
suggested, "Why don't we use this time to do some catching up with 
your Mother?"
	"That's a great idea Akane!" exclaimed Ryoga. He turned 
towards Atsuko who was still conferring with Genma and Nodoka. 
"Mom! Want to show me and Akane around?"
	Moving to look at her son Atsuko beamed widely and called, 
"Okay little Ryo! I'll give the grand tour!"
	At this statement Akane, if possible, looked even more 
nervous and it was then that a low humorous chuckle sounded. 
Turning her head she saw Ganglot floating next to her with Kodachi at 
her side.
	"Don't worry," said Ganglot. "I'll help lead your little group 
along. It seems that I would have to. I'm the only one in the family 
who doesn't have the Hibiki tendency of getting inexplicably lost." 
Smiling wryly she commented, "Besides that, it is my temple that 
Atchan is living in."
	Mulling over this Akane looked back to Atsuko who was 
slowly trying to part herself from Genma and Nodoka's company. 
Watching the scene Akane wondered once again about the nature of 
their of relationship.

	"You be okay Dokachan?" asked Atsuko quietly. "I want to 
spend time with Ryo but not if you'll be sad."
	"I'll be fine," assured Nodoka with quiet emotion. A hesitant 
hand cupped Atsuko's face and she murmured, "You didn't change at 
all my barbarian. You're still so sweet..."
	"And Dokachan still pretty," replied Atsuko smiling. "And 
Genchan still huggy. Not much change, see?" Fawn colored eyes 
moved to Silk who observed them at a distance. "She lies much in her 
heart. Acts like she has no pain but if you look under the surface there 
is great hurt there." Looking back to Nodoka she said in solemn 
tones, "It's not your fault. Not fault then and not fault now. Don't let 
her say otherwise."
	"I won't," said Nodoka, her voice sounding the tears forming 
in her eyes. "I swear that I won't."
	Wearing a satisfied expression at this Atsuko turned to 
Genma and tapped him on the nose. "I'll visit you later Genchan. Then 
we have real reunion out of too nosy eyes of our family and all three 
of us have fun. So get rested."
	Finished saying this Atsuko ran away in the general direction 
of Ryoga and Ganglot while Genma observed her departure with wide 
eyes. Laughing lightly Nodoka closed her husband's open jaw and 
meeting her gaze Genma's eyes crinkled around the edges in 
happiness.
	"Well," said Genma dryly. "She hasn't changed much."
	"No," Nodoka replied while she shook with laughter. "She 
hasn't."

	"It seems," Kuno noted. "That we're the subject of interest 
amongst the locals here."
	"That hardly," began Natsume.
	"Bothers us," finished Kurumi.
	Standing in front of the twins Happosai noted the stares of the 
villagers and smiled lecherously at them which caused their eyes to 
narrow in speculation. Lighting his pipe he puffed on it thoughtfully.
	"Girls," stated Happosai, a slow smile spreading across his 
wrinkled features. "Lets get in a little training. I know just the perfect 
place for it."
	Blinking the twins met their eyes then giving a shrug Kurumi 
replied, "Of course."
	"Whatever you say," added Natsume as they followed after 
the diminutive martial arts Master.
	Watching them leave Kuno gave a sigh and said to himself, "I 
suppose I am on my own then." Adjusting his knapsack on his 
shoulder he turned to face forward only to be met with a group of 
several very beautiful and curious female Amazons. "Hello," he said in 
slow apprehension as they inspected him with careful eyes. "My name 
is Kuno Tatewaki and you all are?"
	"We test strength," said the girl leading the group in broken 
Japanese. She paused to retrieve a two edged sword. "See if worthy 
outsider male."
	"Worthy outsider male?" repeated Kuno anxiously. Taking 
several steps backwards he held up his hands in a defenseless gesture. 
"I'm sure that I don't understand what exactly it is you're speaking of 
but nonetheless I assume that it is something that I would not enjoy 
being a part of." Kuno paused to form a weak smile. "Do you 
understand me?"
	Some of the Amazon girls conferred while the others 
continued to inspect Kuno as if he was a something on the 
auctioneer's block. Then the one leading the group raised her sword 
high into the air and shouted, "We test strength!"
	Paling considerably Kuno swallowed the large lump in his 
throat and squeaked, "It would appear not."

	Soun watched in wonder as half a dozen Amazon girls ran 
past him to chase the exiting Kuno with certain vigor. He chuckled 
and murmured, "That brings back memories."
	"Reminiscing about old times Soun-kun?"
	Jumping slightly Soun relaxed when he saw the figure of Silk 
standing next to him. "Silk," he acknowledged. "You always did like 
to surprise me."
	"I can't help but fall to the temptation," Silk replied. "It's 
always been so easy to do."
	"Mmm," Soun favored her with a look of skepticism. "I think 
you just like scaring me."
	"That too," said Silk smiling. There was a moment of silence 
before she offered quietly, "I'm sorry I missed the funeral. I thought 
that it would be for the best if I didn't come. We held a ceremony 
here in the village though. It was a great celebration of Kimiko's life--"
	"Don't," interrupted Soun solemnly. He focused his dark gaze 
on Silk and gently clasped her arm. "There's no need to apologize. I 
never faulted you for not coming. I knew how difficult it would have 
been for you." Directing his gaze across the village he continued, "You 
should speak to her. It's time that you sit down and talk about the past 
like adults."
	Smiling wryly Silk ran her fingers through her brown hair. 
"Like adults you say?" Chuckling she shook her head and murmured, 
"You sound just like your father Soun-kun. How strange is that?"
	"Very strange," said Soun as he returned the smile. "But you 
don't fool me. Stop putting it off Silk. Sooner or later you're going to 
need to speak to her."
	"I know," said Silk rather grimly.
	Eyeing her nervously Soun coughed and said, "You don't still 
hold Nodoka to blame, do you?"
	"In my mind I don't but in my heart?" Silk sighed then 
murmured, "I do. I wish I didn't but I do."
	"Well," said Soun wisely. "That's the way of the world 
sometimes. I still think you should work it through while she's here. It's 
doubtful that you'll ever get another chance."
	Tawny eyes lifted to meet his gaze and smiling softly Silk 
questioned, "When did you get so intelligent?"
	"It's a side effect," informed Soun wryly. "From years of 
having been happily married to Kimchan. She always had the sharpest 
mind out of us all."
	"Yes," said Silk with a fond chuckle. "She did."
	"Go talk to her," continued Soun as he gave the Lore Master 
a slight push on her back. "You know you want to."
	Moving a few steps forward Silk paused to look back at 
Soun and said, "Thank you Soun-kun. I never realized just how much 
I missed your kindness until now."
	"Yes, well," Soun coughed as his face flushed red. "I missed 
you too Silk."
	Smiling at this response Silk turned on her heel and headed 
towards the figure of Nodoka who was standing with her husband on 
the edge of the village still involved in their own private discussion.

	Akane paused in front of the steps to the large temple that 
was completely covered with twisted vines and blooming flowers. She 
wasn't sure what to expect when they began their journey to Ganglot's 
temple but she never thought she'd be greeted with a vision of such 
natural beauty.
	Next to her Ryoga wrapped an arm around her waist. "It's 
pretty, don't you think?" he questioned.
	"Yes," replied Akane quietly. "Very pretty."
	"This is what makes my getting lost all the time bearable," said 
Ryoga. "Being outside in nature. I've always enjoyed it."
	The pair remained in their still position for another moment 
before Atsuko poked her head out of the entrance to the temple. 
"Stop chit chat Ryo," she informed shortly. "We have business to 
discuss. You come and listen in, okay?"
	"Business?" Ryoga blinked as he took Akane's hand and 
followed her into the temple. "What do you mean?"
	"Mama knows," said Atsuko. "It's her business with Sakura. 
She wants all in family to hear it together."
	Sensing the solemnity of the situation from the ever present 
smile that was missing from Atsuko's sharp features Akane said 
hesitantly, "I guess I'll be going then..."
	"Akane?" asked Ryoga in surprise.
	Mimicking her son's expression Atsuko studied the youngest 
Tendo sister with a perplexed face. "Why you want to leave? You are 
family now. Anyone my Ryo likes is part of my family." Pausing 
Atsuko formed a kind understanding smile and touched Akane's hand. 
"Family is not made by blood Akane. Family is made by love. So," 
she said slowly. "I think you'll be staying now, yes?"
	"Yes," said Akane in wonderment. "I'll be staying."
	Beaming at this Atsuko clapped her hands together and said, 
"I'm so happy!"
	The couple watched Atsuko quickly round a corner and 
looking up into Ryoga's handsome features Akane smiled then said, "I 
really do like your Mother."
	Returning the smile of contentment Ryoga replied, "I knew 
that you would."
	When they entered the main chamber of the temple they saw 
Ganglot perched on the steps to an altar with the figures of Atsuko 
and Kodachi sitting cross legged before her. Quickly joining the pair 
Ryoga and Akane sat between them and looked expectantly at 
Ganglot.
	"This must remain between us only," said Ganglot. "I don't 
want this reaching the ears of the Elders in the tribe nor do I want my 
chosen bothered with this while she is on the verge of her marriage. Is 
this understood?" Silently they nodded their heads in agreement and 
seeing this Ganglot sighed. "Good," she said quietly. "That makes it 
much easier to tell you what will happen next. As you know I'm 
sharing this form with the mortal Kurasawa Sakura. It is a situation 
neither she nor I am entirely pleased with and we both wish it to end. I 
thought at first that we might merge our twin souls into one but events 
have arisen to show me that this wouldn't be the best path."
	"Mama?" asked Atsuko in puzzled tones. "What are you 
talking about?"
	"Separation," said Ganglot calmly. "Is the only other option 
we have and I feel that we must take it. Sakura asks this of me and I 
cannot deny her wishes anymore." Turning golden eyes to Atsuko she 
murmured, "You were right when you said it was stealing Atchan... I 
was selfish in my actions towards these mortals and now I shall make 
it up to them. But only with your help."
	"My help?" Atsuko questioned. "Why do you need my help 
Mama? I don't have zap bang powers like you now."
	"I know that daughter," Ganglot said kindly. "Your powers 
have become dormant from being ignored all these years. Just as 
they've become dormant in your son."
	His dark brown eyes wide Ryoga said, "Me?"
	"Who else?" responded Ganglot with a teasing smirk. "You're 
my Grandson and that gives you certain abilities that other mortals 
don't have. Both you and Atsuko are latent energy carriers. You 
absorb and collect emotional energy from those around you then in 
turn use it in battle. In your particular case you seem to siphon the 
emotion of depression the most." She paused to rise elegantly to her 
feet and spread her arms wide. "This is my oldest temple. The focus 
of my powers on the mortal plane. If I'm able to harness the energy 
inside you both it should be enough to incite the separation process 
between Sakura and I."
	"And what happens to them when it's over?" asked Akane 
suspiciously. "Will they be all right?"
	"They'll be fine," assured Ganglot. "A bit weak but other than 
that in perfect health. I only need a bit of energy from them to 
complete the process."
	"Why is that?"
	Simultaneously everyone turned to look as the unusually silent 
Kodachi finally said her first words. Keeping her violet eyes locked 
on Ganglot she repeated coolly, "Why is that? I have been wondering 
for some time now why it is that you need their assistance. Why not 
do it yourself?"
	All eyes turned to Ganglot and she heaved a sigh at this 
attention. "It's quite simple," she began. "I will be imbuing my chosen 
with a portion of my powers during the wedding ceremony. This will 
drain me of the proper amount of energy needed to conduct the 
separation even within the holy grounds of my temple."
	"So why give Kuonji that energy?" asked Kodachi sharply. 
"Surely she has no need for it."
	"Dachi..." said Akane in quiet shock. "Why are you acting like 
this?"
	Violet eyes locked on the other girl and her jaw set Kodachi 
retorted, "You would have me act another way when the life of my 
Sakura darling is involved? I'll not risk her lightly Akane and the only 
reason I am going along with these actions is because she requested it 
of me." She turned to face Ganglot and said, "Your answer please."
	"Ukyo is of my chosen," said Ganglot simply. "It is tradition 
for deities to give powers of their chosen. This will further insure my 
safety in this realm. With Happosai and Ukyo carrying a portion of my 
essence within them I can never be banished again. It will also add to 
aid in Sakura's recovery as she can draw energy from not only those 
of my lineage but Ukyo as well." She paused to meet Kodachi's gaze 
and asked, "Does that answer your questions?"
	"For now," said Kodachi before she abruptly rose to her feet 
and exited the temple.
	Akane watched this departure for a moment then looked to 
Ryoga who said, "Go after her. I know you want to. I'll be waiting 
here with Mom and... Grandma."
	Smiling softly Akane darted forward to kiss his lips lightly then 
ran out of the temple and after Kodachi. All was silent until Ryoga 
turned to face a smirking Ganglot and raising an eyebrow she said 
playfully, "Grandma?"
	Flushing at this Ryoga said defensively, "Well it's the truth, 
isn't it?"
	"Yes," said Ganglot chuckling. "It certainly is but I never 
expected you to accept it so readily."
	"Silly Mama," commented Atsuko reproachfully. "Ryo is a 
Hibiki. He knows better than to deny heritage."
	"Yeah!" Ryoga chimed in. "I know better."
	Smiling softly at the pair Ganglot rested her chin in the palm of 
her hand and murmured, "Of course."

	"Does it gotta be so tight?" Ukyo winced.
	The tailor responded by yanking the material around her 
breasts even closer to her body so it now looked like a part of her 
skin. Grimacing at this Ukyo sucked in her breath and glared at the 
top of the Amazon's head.
	"You know," continued Ukyo irately. "It'd be nice if I could 
breath when I walk down the aisle or whatever the hell it is they do 
for weddings here."
	"I think you look wonderful Ucchan," Ranma said a bit too 
enthusiastically.
	Ukyo did look wonderful though. Her long oak brown hair 
was let loose around her shoulders to shimmer in the streams of 
sunlight coming from the window. The start of the gown she had on 
accented the slight curves on her trim figure giving her a look that was 
utterly feminine. Its royal blue color that was set off with a silver trim 
made for an elegant comparison that helped complete the outfit.
	At least that was what Ranma thought. He had finished his 
own fitting first and was leaning back in the chair on the far side of the 
room watching Ukyo go through the slow torture herself. He wore an 
elegant red and black silk outfit that happened to have the intricate 
design of a horse on the shirt. Shampoo had taken her leave to go 
with her Mother to retrieve the dress that had been reserved years 
ago for her wedding. That left Ukyo and Ranma alone to discuss the 
upcoming events.
	Alone if you didn't count the figure of a frustrated Amazon 
tailor who went by the name of Needle. A tailor who was starting to 
snap from having to deal with a client so impatient that she refused to 
stand still for move than five seconds. It had taken a good ten minutes 
worth of arguing for Needle to convince the stubborn Japanese girl to 
remove the oversized cooking implement she wore on her back and 
that was just the start of the problems. Needle was finding it more and 
more difficult to understand just why the Champion of their tribe 
wanted this one for her Airen. The male she could understand. He 
could stand still and despite his inept warbling in Mandarin he was 
quite charming. The female on the other hand was a complete pain in 
the ass.
	"Sure," said Ukyo in comically suspicious tones. "You're just 
saying that because this shows off my womanly figure." She grimaced 
as Needle pulled the material around her waist even tighter. "Now that 
I have one again."
	Offering an exaggerated smile of lechery Ranma replied, "It's 
my wedding night. Is it so wrong for me to enjoy how much future 
wife looks?"
	"No," said Ukyo shortly, giving another wince and glaring at 
Needle who continued to work. "I'm glad that you like the dress 
Ranchan it's just that wearing it makes me kinda uncomfortable."
	Ranma blinked in confusion. "How come?"
	"Well," Ukyo began slowly as she attempted to wiggle around 
in the tight material only to have herself get stuck by an irritated 
Needle again. "I've never actually worn a dress before. This'll be my 
first time."
	"Never?" asked Ranma incredulously.
	"Yup. Never," repeated Ukyo smiling. "Poppa used to dress 
me in asexual outfits. Y'know, jeans, t-shirts, and such? Then when he 
died I ended up traveling with Pops and the Master so I mainly wore 
gi's or other training clothes. Which all are pretty masculine." She 
paused to add wryly, "And my first visit here sorta made it impossible 
to safely wear a dress without embarrassment." Ukyo picked at the 
silken material and tapped Needle on the top of her head. When the 
tailor looked up at her she questioned, "Does it gotta be so tight? 
Y'know if I get splashed with cold water this thing is gonna be ripped 
to shreds."
	Needle merely narrowed her eyes at this comment then began 
saying something in low and harsh tones to herself in Mandarin. While 
Ukyo observed this in puzzlement Ranma laughed and said, "Don't 
worry about cold water Ucchan. I think you'll be safe from it today. 
It's our wedding day, what could possibly go wrong?"
	Shooting him a wry look Ukyo drawled, "Well. So far we've 
had a nutcase who purposely cursed himself kidnap and try to kill 
Nabchan..."
	"Okay," said Ranma warily. "I'll give you that but that was 
only one thing. I'm sure nothing else will go wrong."
	Ukyo snorted at this. "I'd like to think that Ranchan but bad 
things have a habit of happening to me."
	"Maybe," Ranma conceded. "But this isn't just about you 
Ucchan. It's about me, you, and Shamchan. And as far as I know 
Shamchan and I don't share your string of bad luck. Don't worry so 
much. This is our special day and I know everything will be all right. I 
can just feel it. Besides," he gave a lopsided grin. "How could anything 
possibly go wrong with you wearing that dress?" 
	"Do you think I look nice?" Ukyo questioned softly. Her eyes 
showing a quiet need for reassurance.
	"No," said Ranma intensely as he rose to his feet and stood at 
her side. Their eyes locked and touching her cheek gently he 
continued, "I think you look gorgeous."
	"Ranchan," said Ukyo breathlessly.
	Leaning forward she tipped her face towards his and just as 
their lips met in a passionate kiss the loud shout of an incensed Needle 
was heard. Jerking backwards Ranma gazed at the ruffled tailor who 
had been squished between them and offered her a sheepish smile.
	"Sorry," Ranma said lamely. "I didn't see you there."
	Narrowing her gaze Needle merely sniffed and went back to 
fitting the dress while Ranma shrugged haplessly at Ukyo. Smirking at 
this action the okonomiyaki chef turned her attention back to Needle's 
work and noted something that didn't catch her attention before.
	"Do I really gotta show this much cleavage?" Ukyo 
complained.
	
	Lotion stood on top of the high hill overlooking the deserted 
valley where Natsume and Kurumi were receiving their training from 
Happosai. She curiously noted when he left their presence and only 
seconds later Lotion observed in some shock the massive chi power 
rising from the twins who were still battling each other. Natsume 
flipped the rug beater in her grip and across from her Kurumi snapped 
the ribbon from her hair and moved into a low fighting stance.
	The two girls landed gracefully on the ground and in an 
controlled movement Kurumi spun the ribbon in her grasp to form a 
blurring spiral. While she did this Natsume raised her rug beater in her 
grasp to point it towards the center of the spiral. Their two chi forces 
mixing into blurs of red and blue the twins stood side by side. Then 
suddenly from the chi an energy she had not in many years appeared. 
It was the soft red hue of psychic ruminations. 
	As the chi a formed a monstrous spiral of energy the psychic 
glow wound around it and Lotion heard the twins shout out, "Hiryu 
Carimbou!!"
	The chi then rocketed into the atmosphere to form a massive 
explosion and when energy faded she saw the twins standing in the 
same controlled positions from before. They met their gazes to give a 
short nod of approval and as they walked away they seemed to fade 
into their surroundings.
	Her eyes narrowed in speculation Lotion studied the area 
where the twins had been and said solemnly, "This isn't good. This 
isn't good at all."
	"Aww. That's not nice."
	Whirling around Lotion looked into the smiling face of 
Happosai who was smoking his pipe. "Tell me Lotion," he began. 
"Why would you say something mean like that about my girls? They 
make any Master proud. Just look how they're excelling in the early 
stages of Lore Master training. But that is to be expected with their 
parentage," he taunted. "And their skills in focusing both their chi and 
psychic energy far excels those who made them."
	"Do you have any idea the danger you've placed those girls 
in?" Lotion demanded. "Only certain people have the inner strength to 
learn the techniques of a Lore Master. You have never properly 
mastered even the simplest of our techniques yourself so how can you 
dare to teach them to your disciples?"
	"Don't be such a snob," Happosai sniffed. "Just because I 
don't follow your code for being a proper Lore Master doesn't 
change the fact that I learned the techniques."
	"And what of your disciples?" persisted Lotion. "How do you 
know they're strong enough to survive the training?"
	"They are," assured Happosai. "Trust me."
	"Trust you?" snorted Lotion. "I'd sooner play with a 
rattlesnake." She turned her gaze back to the empty valley and said, 
"What are those girls to you? I don't recall you teaching your disciples 
such powerful techniques the last time we met."
	At this comment Happosai laughed. "Why would I want to? 
Soun and Genma never wanted to learn the art from me. They 
couldn't ever see past my little distractions. But my girls..." he smiled. 
"They actually listen and learn."
	"You're hiding something," said Lotion in slow realization. 
"What is it?"
	His smile deepening Happosai walked away from the Lore 
Master and said, "You're a smart one Lotion. Keep your eyes open 
and you'll figure it out soon enough."
	Now alone Lotion remained still as she stared out at the 
empty valley. Only mere seconds later her eyes widened as she felt all 
the pieces of the puzzle come together.
	"My Goddess," she whispered in shock. "They're the children. 
Silk's lost children."
	
	Presently Silk was inside her home with the nervous figure of 
Nodoka sitting across from her. It had taken some time but she'd 
managed to convince Genma to let her be alone with Silk. When he 
finally did concede to this he gave Silk such a harsh glare of warning 
that the Lore Master felt the full force of their bond. Their marriage 
was nothing new to her. Silk had been watching the development of 
Nodoka's life with the use of her powers for years now. Despite 
herself she had a morbid curiosity about the existence of the woman 
who played such an integral role in her youth.
	After several minutes of uncomfortable silence Nodoka 
managed to find her voice. She gazed pensively at her hands that were 
neatly folded on top of her katana while she spoke.
	"I'm sorry," lifting her head Nodoka met Silk's eyes with a 
helpless sorrow. "I never meant to hurt you but I still did. It was my 
selfish pride that ruined what we had. I learned that far too late to 
save our relationship." She paused then added quietly, "The line of 
Samurai ends with me. I never taught Ranma any of my clan's customs 
or duties. He had never even held arataka and I've deflected any 
requests he made to learn the North Star sword style of my clan. I 
wish him to know nothing of my former life and the duties that came 
with it. My son's life will be his own," Nodoka said in steely 
determination. "We must live life for ourselves. It was you who taught 
me that and I thank for it. I give you both my gratitude and regret for 
our past because it was that which molded me into the woman that I 
am today."
	When she finished her heartfelt speech Silk wore the smallest 
of smiles and said, "Always so polite. Doesn't it ever wear on your 
nerves to be so polite?"
	"No," replied Nodoka automatically as she returned the smile 
with certain familiarity. "It's been bred into me as it has been bred into 
all those of pure lineage."
	"Sort of like a racehorse?" Silk questioned dryly and chuckled 
only to sigh then shake her head. "It still hurts. Even after all these 
years it still hurts."
	"I know," Nodoka whispered. "I feel it as well."
	Meeting warm brown eyes Silk gave a wan smile. "I suppose 
that shows the strength of the bond we shared."
	"Share," corrected Nodoka with quiet strength. "We still have 
that bond between us Silk or why else would we be here talking 
about it?"
	"I suppose you're right," allowed Silk. In an abrupt movement 
she ripped her eyes away from Nodoka's to look out the window of 
her hut. "I'm sorry that I tried to kill you. I sometimes look back on 
that night and I try convince myself that if Genma hadn't interfered I 
would've stopped my mania from reaching that peak. But I just don't 
know. It hurt so much and all I could do was take that pain out on 
you."
	"It was my fault," said Nodoka morosely. "He was my cousin 
and he... attacked you magically disguised as me. He did it to punish 
me in an attempt take arataka from me. You would've never had to 
go through that pain if it hadn't been for me. I caused you more pain 
than I was worth. It would've been far better for you if we had never 
met."
	"No," said Silk sharply. She moved forward to squeeze 
Nodoka's shoulders. "Despite all that's happened I don't regret our 
time together."
	Blinking at this strong emotional outburst Nodoka said in soft 
hopeful tones, "Silk?"
	"I don't regret any of it," continued Silk tenderly as she pushed 
back several loose tendrils of hair from Nodoka's forehead. Her hand 
stopped to cup her cheek. "Airen."
	Nodoka closed her eyes on hearing her loving title of old and 
leaned into Silk's touch. Slowly she reached up and clasped her hand 
on top of the one touching her cheek. Her solemn brown gaze lifted to 
lock with tawny eyes.
	"I don't regret it either," Nodoka murmured. "And despite 
what you may believe I knew that you would never hurt me. You're 
far too kind a soul for that."
	Pulling away from Nodoka to sit a safe distance away from 
her Silk bore her gaze into the floor of the hut. "I'd like to think that 
but I'm not so sure..." Silk looked up at Nodoka with tortured 
features. "Nodoka," she whispered. "The birth was difficult and it left 
me unable to have any more children." She clenched her hands into 
fists and then took a shuddering breath of air. "I tried to kill you when 
I was told that my baby was stillborn. I somehow blamed you for 
that... I think it was because even though I know it was him that night 
it was still your face." Hugging herself now Silk was so absorbed in 
the telling of her tale that she didn't notice when Nodoka quietly 
moved to sit closer to her. "It was seeing your face and what he did to 
it. The way it looked on me in scorn and hatred..."
	When Silk released a muffled sob she found herself in 
Nodoka's comforting hold only seconds later. Falling into the familiar 
comfort of old the Lore Master buried her face in the soft curve of 
Nodoka's bosom as she cried. Pulling Silk even closer to her Nodoka 
squeezed her eyes shut as if to block out the pain while she silently 
cursed a man long dead. As she did this she began to rock Silk slowly 
back and forth which served to calm the near hysterical Lore Master.
	Almost a half an hour had passed when Silk felt herself regain 
some semblance of control. Shakily she lifted her head to look up into 
Nodoka's sad but kind eyes. Her hand wavering she reached up to 
cup the Samurai's cheek much like she had before. They remained still 
as they lost themselves in the depths of the other's gaze and suddenly 
their lips met in a kiss of crashing desire.
	Their exchange became increasingly more heated and falling 
back onto the floor of her hut Silk surrendered herself to the expert 
hands of her estranged Airen. Exploring Silk's body ravenously 
Nodoka tried to make up years of separation and pain with her every 
touch. And when the ecstatic shouts of Silk echoed loudly throughout 
the village there were none who could doubt her skill in doing so.
	And from his position lounging outside of the Amazon version 
of an eatery Genma raised an eyebrow when he heard the shouts of 
Silk reaching orgasm. "Huh," he said forming a lazy smile. "I guess 
they made up."

	"Are you all right Dachi?" questioned Akane.
	She had managed to catch up with the dark gymnast just as 
she was nearing the village and they were now paused in their walk to 
stand in a grove of trees. Kodachi pressed her head against the bark 
of the tree as if she was trying to gain a sort of strength from it.
	"She could die Akane," Kodachi replied. "If they fail in this 
task Sakura will die..." Her dark head shook in a slow morose 
measure. "I do not want them to do this but I cannot protest it 
because it is what my dearest requests." Violet eyes turned to meet 
light brown ones. "It feels like I am a silent observer at an execution. 
Like she's asked me to merely sit back and watch as she happily 
chooses death." Shaking her head Kodachi said lowly, "I am unsure if 
I can do it."
	Moving forward Akane gently clasped Kodachi's shoulders to 
turn the girl around so they were facing. "Sakura won't die Dachi. 
She's a fighter, remember? Fighting is what she does for fun so when 
it comes to her life you know she's going to give it her all." Akane 
paused to offer a reassuring smile. "She won't lose this battle because 
her future with you is resting on it. And Dachi," she murmured 
playfully. "If you haven't noticed Sakura is in love with you."
	"I've noticed," said Kodachi as she returned Akane's smile 
with some reluctance. Sighing deeply she pushed away from the tree 
and headed towards the village again. "That's why I find it so hard to 
allow this."
	Hurrying up to walk at her friend's side Akane tipped her 
head back to look into the sky. "Sometimes being in love is about 
making hard decisions," she mused. "We show that we really love 
someone by accepting whatever choices they make no matter how we 
may hate them. Ultimately it's their decision and nothing we do can 
change that." She reached out to hold Kodachi's hand an action that 
caused the dark gymnast to halt her in her walk. When violet eyes 
turned to meet her gaze Akane continued, "Let Sakura do this Dachi. 
It's her choice no matter how stupid it is."
	There was a long moment of silent before Kodachi wore the 
smallest of smiles as she questioned, "Then you also feel this is a 
foolish situation?"
	"Oh yeah," said Akane giving a slight grin as she nodded her 
head in strong affirmation. Hooking her arm in Kodachi's she moved 
them back into a steady walk towards the village. "Then again this all 
fits Sakura pretty well. She's always getting herself into foolish 
situations. The idiot once tried to hide from me in a closet."
	Her lips quirking upward at this Kodachi lightly commented, 
"That was quite an ironic choice for a hiding spot on her part."
	Giggling Akane bumped shoulders with her friend and rolled 
her eyes in exasperation. "That's not all," she said with exaggerated 
annoyance. "After I tugged her out of that damn closet, where she 
was hiding with Ryochan, she decided to make a run for it. She had 
me chasing after her the entire lunch hour and I ended up losing her 
trail. Later I found out that she had been hanging upside down from 
the rafters in the gym." Akane shook her head as she said, "The 
janitors thought she was a giant sloth at first. They even sprayed some 
sort of vermin toxin. I think that was when she finally let go and fell on 
top of the freshman girls gym class while they were doing exercises."
	Chuckling now Kodachi's eyes crinkled around the edges as 
she smiled widely. "My darling Sakura," she noted wryly. "Baffles me 
with her actions but I love her still and to love her I must accept her 
choices." She met Akane's gaze and murmured, "I will respect her 
wishes old friend. Thank you for helping me to accept this."
	"Hey," said Akane smiling. "What are friends for?"
	Returning the smile Kodachi said warmly, "Indeed."

	Perfume tilted her head in the air as a resounding cry echoed 
throughout the village. Next to her Nabiki looked up from where her 
head was rested in the crook of the Enforcer's shoulder. The couple 
were relaxing in the cabin Perfume that had grown up in with Cologne 
and wanted to rest before the festivities of the upcoming wedding.
	"Sounds like Silk is having fun," Perfume commented slyly as 
she gave a chuckle.
	"Silk?" questioned Nabiki.
	"Can recognize her voice," said Perfume. "From tone and 
pitch also can tell she having very good time."
	On hearing this Nabiki looked faintly disturbed and averted 
her gaze to stare out the window. Perfume noted this and as she 
stretched out on the lounge they were lying on she lightly tipped up 
Nabiki's chin so their eyes met.
	"What's wrong?" Perfume asked.
	Sighing Nabiki buried her face in the warmth of Perfume's 
chest and murmured, "She looks so much like Mother that it's almost 
like having her back."
	"And so you no like hearing that Silk with someone that way? 
Is like thinking of parents being intimate?" finished Perfume as she 
smiled in amusement.
	"It's not funny Bobo," groused Nabiki. The couple remained 
silent as they enjoyed their close and comfortable contact with one 
another. "Who do you think she's with?"
	Forming a face of deep contemplation Perfume ended up 
looking puzzled as she said, "I has no idea."
	"Some help you are," Nabiki sniffed. She remained quiet while 
she mulled over this then wearing a sneaky smile she began in sultry 
tones, "Perfume baby... how would you like to help me find out?"
	Warily meeting hazel eyes Perfume said, "What is you up to 
now Airen?"
	"Up to? Moi?" questioned Nabiki with feigned innocence. 
"Why would you think I was up to anything?"
	"Because I know you," Perfume answered simply.
	Nabiki wore a cute pout as she asked, "Does that mean 
you're not going to help me?"
	Gazing into Nabiki's eyes the Amazon Enforcer heaved a 
deep sigh as she said, "You is going to get into trouble one of these 
days. I know it."
	"Mmm," purred Nabiki in sensuous agreement. "But I'm worth 
it aren't I?"
	As a response Perfume merely raised an eyebrow skeptically 
before she reluctantly rose to her feet and pulled her Airen up with 
her. She just hoped that Silk would eventually forgive her for 
whatever plan Nabiki had come up with.

	"<So,>" began Comb as she broke the silence. "<Tell me 
about these Airen of yours. What are they like?>"
	She was walking quietly along with Shampoo through the 
village and towards the tailor's hut. After Shampoo put on her 
wedding dress she decided to remove it in favor of being with her 
Airen up to the second the ceremony began. She was a bit nervous 
considering what went along with the traditional Amazon wedding 
since she knew that Ukyo and Ranma had no idea about just what 
they were getting into.
	"<What do you want to know?>" Shampoo asked politely. It 
had been many years since she'd seen much less talked to her mother 
so she was more than a bit nervous at the prospect here.
	"<Lets start with Ranma,>" said Comb. Her scarlet eyes 
twinkled as she questioned playfully, "<Does he take after Genma?>"
	"<Certainly not!>" exclaimed Shampoo looking appalled at 
the thought. "<Ranma is kind, generous, and sweet. I've never talked 
with anyone about myself as much as I have when I'm with him. 
There's an innocent curiosity about Ranma that's charming.>" 
Shampoo sighed in contentment as she thought of her Airen. Focusing 
back on Comb she smirked as she said, "<He's nothing at all like his 
father.>"
	Comb wore a thoughtful expression as she said, "<I bet that's 
because of Nodoka.>" Turning back to her daughter she smiled. "<So 
Ranma's sweet, is he? From the way that you and Ukyo chased after 
him to see his clothes fitting it also seems like he's a bit uptight about 
sex.>"
	"<Yes,>" Shampoo sighed deeply. "<Ranma's very proper 
about that kind of thing. We've kissed and done other things but he 
won't make love until we're married. When we asked him about it he 
said that it wasn't honorable.>"
	"<Nodoka's influence again,>" Comb sniffed. "<She was 
always a big stickler about that sort of thing. It took Silk nearly a year 
to get her to...>" Upon seeing Shampoo's eyes widen she trailed off 
then gave a nervous laugh.
	"<Aunt Silk was with Ranma's mother?>" questioned 
Shampoo incredulously. "<When did that happen?>"
	"<Awhile ago,>" said Comb lamely as she rubbed the back of 
her purple head of hair. "<It was before you were born. Even before I 
met your father.>" While Shampoo was mulling over this Comb 
attempted to divert her thoughts and asked, "<How do you think your 
Airen will do tonight?>"
	A fond smile crossing her beautiful features Shampoo happily 
hugged her dress to her chest as she said, "<They'll succeed. I have 
no doubt about that. I'm just afraid that they might be terribly 
confused by the tests set before them.>"
	"<Will they take the drink?>" questioned Comb with honest 
curiosity.
	"<Ukyo will,>" Shampoo said thoughtfully. "<But I'm not sure 
about Ranma.>" She paused for a moment then gave a chuckle then 
added, "<If he doesn't then I'm sure I can always wheedle him into it. 
Of course, that's only if Ukyo doesn't beat me to the punch.>"
	"<Tell me,>" began Comb. "<What sort of person is she? I 
never did hear the whole story about why exactly you forgave her for 
running out on you.>"
	Frowning slightly Shampoo replied, "<It's hard to explain... 
but when she ran it wasn't because she was rejecting me or her duty 
to me. Ukyo didn't realize what the kiss of life meant. It scared her.>"
	"<Scared her?>" repeated Comb in disbelief. "<She got 
scared of a kiss from you? What's her problem?>"
	Clenching her jaw Shampoo paused in her walk to stop 
directly in front of the tailor's hut. Meeting her mother's gaze she said 
lowly, "<It was her first kiss as a boy and it caused her to become 
excited. She was a girl in a boy's body and she didn't want to have 
those type of feelings. When she told me the truth of the situation I 
couldn't find it in my heart to blame her and therefore neither should 
you. I've never been happier then when I'm with Ranma and Ukyo.>"
	With that Shampoo turned on her heel and walked inside of 
the hut to see how her Airen were doing with their fittings for the 
wedding that was a mere hour away. This left Comb standing alone in 
front of the hut as a slow grin spread across her beautiful features.
	"<So,>" said Comb now wearing a brash grin. "<She really 
does love them.>"
	
	Nabiki and Perfume had just entered the outskirts of the 
village when Kuno came barreling past them with half a dozen 
Amazon girls hot at his heels. The girl who was leading the group was 
shouting something about testing strength as she waved her long 
sword around.
	"Kuno baby?" said Nabiki in slow disbelief. "What's he up to 
now?"
	Frowning at her nickname being used for the strange boy 
again Perfume replied, "He being chased by Dill Weed and her 
warriors. They probably want test strength to see if he be good Airen 
for them."
	Snickering at this Nabiki took Perfume's hand in her own as 
they walked into the village. "Somehow I don't think he's too happy 
about that Perchan." Looking up at Perfume she questioned, "Why 
would they want to chase him anyway? I mean, they don't even know 
anything about him."
	"Not matter," Perfume said solemnly. "It not often they see 
outsiders. Especially handsome outsider male who has aura of good 
fighter about him. Such a coupling makes for strong babies. That why 
they chase him."
	"Makes sense," mused Nabiki. She had just hooked her arm 
in Perfume's when the Enforcer abruptly stopped in front of one of the 
more elaborate huts in the village. Hazel eyes studied it carefully as 
she asked, "This Silk's place?"
	"Is so," said Perfume.
	Coming to a silent decision Nabiki nodded to herself then 
walked to the front door the hut and...
	Politely knocked on it.
	Her sapphire eyes wide Perfume dashed to Nabiki's side and 
whispered, "What is you doing? I thought you try be sneaky to find 
out who she with!"
	Meeting Perfume's gaze Nabiki gave a slow smile as she said, 
"And where would be the fun in that?"
	Before Perfume could reply the door opened to reveal the 
slightly mussed form of Silk wearing a robe. She took in the figures of 
Nabiki and Perfume standing on her doorstep then said with wry 
humor, "Can I help you?"
	"Yes," said Nabiki immediately. "I just wanted you and 
whoever is in there with you to know that we realize all of the adults 
are hiding something. We may not know what it is but we know it's 
something. If I were you I'd stop trying to hide it and just tell us the 
truth already. That's all." Nabiki paused to give a small polite bow 
then taking Perfume's hand turned on her heel. She halted in her walk 
and looking back at Silk who was still standing in the doorway she 
added, "I'll keep quiet for now but we deserve the truth. And do tell 
Obasan Saotome that I said hello." Seeing the look of shock on Silk's 
features Nabiki silently went on her way.
	"Airen," Perfume said in surprise. "How you know that it was 
Saotome-san with her?"
	"I didn't know," said Nabiki quietly. "Until I saw the look on 
her face."

	"You look great," said Ukyo in a daze.
	"You mean she looks beautiful," Ranma corrected as he gave 
Ukyo a poke in the side.
	Snapping of her stunned state Ukyo smiled as she said, "I 
stand corrected. From now on I'll use nothing less than the word 
beautiful when describing our Shamchan."
	Indeed Shampoo did look beautiful in the long silken gown 
she had on. It was a deep red hue offset with a golden lining and it 
flowed with her curvaceous frame like water. The slit running up the 
side revealed her gorgeous legs while giving her more freedom to 
move about. Her lavender hair was piled on the top of her head in an 
extravagant bun held together with two jade hair pieces. All in all 
Shampoo made for a breathtaking bride.
	Flushing from their compliments Shampoo beamed as she 
smoothly crossed to them and reached out to hold their hands in her 
own. "I think you both look beautiful as well," she said softly. 
Straightening Ranma's collar she smiled while looking into their eyes. 
"Is you ready?"
	Ukyo and Ranma met their gazes then turning back to 
Shampoo they said solemnly, "No."
	Shampoo could only blink in shock at this before she 
suddenly found herself in their arms. Ranma pulled her close to his 
smooth chest and caressed the length of her body she soon found 
Ukyo's lips possessing hers in a passionate kiss. When it ended and 
Shampoo voiced a low moan of protest Ukyo's lips were replaced 
with Ranma's just as Ukyo began caressing the length of her body 
where Ranma left off.
	After several heated moments of this they reluctantly parted. 
Despite appearing a bit harried Ukyo and Ranma gave identical 
lopsided grins as they said, "Now we're ready."
	"Airen," said Shampoo breathlessly as she sounded a bit 
bemused. "You is crazy."
	"Maybe," Ukyo acknowledged while still grinning. "But it's a 
good kind of crazy, isn't it?"
	"Yeah," Ranma chimed in playfully. "It's the 'we're crazy in 
love with you kind of crazy'. And that's always the good kind of 
crazy. Right Shamchan?"
	Smiling widely Shampoo took their hands in hers once again 
and pulling them towards the door she said, "Yes. It's a good kind of 
crazy. It the kind I like very much."
	When they stepped out of the hut and into the village they 
were greeted by a large crowd who instantly burst into loud cheers. 
With wide eyes Ukyo and Ranma gazed at the huge mass of people. 
All of whom appeared to have different types of food and drink in 
their hands. Aware of their stunned state Shampoo gently tugged them 
after her until they were in the center of the crowd. Immediately the 
two were met with loud congratulations and slaps on their backs. As 
this went on they found the various food and drink shoved into their 
grasp. Never one to turn down free stuff Ukyo downed the drink and 
food with surprising speed. Next to her Ranma stared at his iinazuke 
with humorous wariness. When someone handed him a large mug he 
held it close to his nose and sniffed it with careful inspection. Upon 
smelling the scent of different fruits Ranma deemed it harmless and 
downed the drink at the same mammoth pace as Ukyo.
	Ranma was on his second mug when his instincts told him 
trouble was coming. He looked up to see a huge woman carrying a 
large club approach them. Her blue eyes narrowed and she snarled in 
broken Japanese, "Move outlander. I has tribal business with 
Shampoo that need be settled before she leave for your barbarian 
lands again."
	"No way!" exclaimed Ranma as he moved the best he could 
in his slightly wobbly state to guard Shampoo. "This is our wedding 
day and I'm not letting you do anything to my future wife! Tribal 
business or not!"
	"Yeah!" Ukyo echoed as she was suddenly in front of Ranma. 
Waving her fourth mug of the fruit drink in the much larger woman's 
face she declared, "Leave Shamchan alone or I'll whup ya good you 
jackass! Dress 'r' not!"
	After she said this Ukyo tried to unsheathe her battle spatula 
but her fingers kept slipping on the handle. The huge warrior woman 
observed this then burst into laughter. She gave Ukyo a slap on the 
back as she smiled at Ranma.
	Turning to the crowd she called out, "<Protection! They shield 
their love from harm!>"
	The crowd roared in obvious approval and squinting her eyes 
Ukyo mumbled to herself, "That's wut I thought. Ain't nobody messin' 
with a Kuonji."
	While Ukyo started on her fifth mug of the fruit drink that 
someone handed her Ranma noted Shampoo making her way through 
the crowd. Starting after her he lightly grabbed her arm and said, 
"Where you goin' Shamchan? We're gettin' married..."
	"Yeah!" shouted Ukyo loudly as she waved her mug high in 
the air causing the contents to go sloshing about. "We wanna get 
married! I'm wearin' the damn dress!"
	The shouts of his iinazuke distracted Ranma for only a 
moment but in that moment he lost track of Shampoo who had 
disappeared in the crowd of merry makers. Just as Ranma realized 
this Ukyo called out, "Come back Shamchan! We're gettin' married!"
	"We gotta find her," said Ranma with determination. He 
turned to meet Ukyo's eyes and said, "C'mon Ucchan. Lets go after 
Shamchan. She's here somewhere."
	Nodding her head at this Ukyo unsteadily followed Ranma 
through the crowd as they shouted out Shampoo's name. 
	"<What would you want with Shampoo? Surely warriors like 
yourselves want a lover not a fighter.>"
	Ranma turned at the sound of Shampoo's name and looked 
into a pair of glittering green eyes. The woman before him had long 
blonde hair and a svelte body. She also looked incredibly sexy 
wearing an outfit that covered only the most minimal amount of skin. 
With a fluid grace she was upon him and winding her body over his 
own. She ran her fingers lazily down his chest as she purred, "<What 
do you say outlander? Would you like to be with me?>"
	Muddled cobalt eyes narrowed and lifted to look past the 
blonde woman. He gave a short nod and upon seeing it she smiled 
and opened her mouth to say something but was cut off by Ukyo's 
battle spatula descending on her head with a loud crash. The woman 
slumped to the ground and not giving her a second glance Ranma 
stepped over her and walked to Ukyo's side. As he reached her he 
noted that there was a girl dressed similar to his own blonde 
seductress collapsed on the ground near Ukyo as well.
	They were about to start shouting for Shampoo again when 
someone cried out, "<Fidelity!>"
	Again the crowd erupted into cheers and plugging his ears 
Ranma winced. Leaning closer to Ukyo he asked, "What are they 
shoutin' about?"
	"They were sayin' fiddlerity," Ukyo replied in slurred tones as 
she accepted yet another mug of the fruit drink while leaning against 
her battle spatula for support. "Means that we were bein' faithful."
	While Ranma mulled over this Ukyo finished her sixth mug of 
the fruit drink then took his hand in her own as she unsteadily wavered 
through the crowd. "Shamchan!" she began to shout. "C'mon out 
Shamchan!"
	Matching her shouts Ranma was searching the crowd for 
Shampoo and it was because of this that he didn't notice when Ukyo 
abruptly paused in her walk. He slammed into her and as he pulled 
away Ranma rubbed his chin which had hit the back of her head then 
asked, "Why'd you stop? We gotta find Shamchan."
	"Little girl," whispered Ukyo more to herself than to Ranma. 
Sheathing her battle spatula she slowly neared the crouched figure of a 
frightened child. Kneeling before the girl Ukyo slowly touched her 
cheek and wiped away the tears streaming down them. "Don't cry. 
Did ya lose your Poppa too? I was a little girl too when my Poppa 
died..."
	She looked up at a soft touch to her back and saw Ranma 
standing beside her. He knelt down and with careful hands gathered 
the little girl into his grasp. Rising to his feet he helped Ukyo up with 
one hand while maintaining his gentle hold on the child who had now 
ceased her crying.
	It was then that a matronly woman walked through the crowd 
to take the child in her arms. As she walked away the little girl 
shouted happily, "<Compassion!>"
	Suddenly the crowd parted and Shampoo was standing 
before them with an calm expectant look on her beautiful features. 
And despite her wavering balance Ukyo dashed straight to her 
without tripping once and all with Ranma running at her heels. 
Together the pair gathered Shampoo in the most powerful of 
embraces while they exclaimed simultaneously, "Shamchan!"
	There was a long moment of silence then a voice in the crowd 
said quietly, "<Love.>"
	"<Love,>" the crowd said louder.
	"<Love!>" the crowd shouted.
	"<LOVE!>" the crowd roared.
	The couple was lost to this as they clung to Shampoo afraid 
that she might disappear again. Smiling at this she moved out of their 
hold reluctantly and reached out to hold their hands in her own. 
Tugging them along after her much like she had done before Ukyo 
and Ranma soon found themselves in front of a small shrine. Standing 
in front of them was Cologne wearing an expression of approval.
	"Well done Daughter-in-law, Son-in-law, I knew you 
wouldn't fail my Great Granddaughter," said Cologne smiling. She 
paused to pull out a long document and a pen. "You have successfully 
completed the wedding ceremony. All that is left is to sign the 
document licensed from those fools in Beijing to make this all legal. 
Sign on the dotted line please."
	"Wait a minute," said Ranma quickly as he waved his hands 
about. "That was the wedding? How could that be?"
	"I got all dressed up fer that?" Ukyo muttered lowly. "Whatta 
kick in the ass. We better be havin' one helluva reception after that 
kinda wedding."
	Smiling indulgently at this Cologne handed Ukyo the pen and 
said, "Of course Daughter-in-law. We'll be having a celebration the 
likes of which you've never seen."
	Ukyo contemplated this then took the pen from Cologne and 
managed to scrawl her name in very sloppy penmanship across the 
page. Handing the pen to Ranma she smiled and said, "Your turn 
Ranchan."
	Still mulling over the odd Amazon wedding he'd just gone 
through Ranma met Ukyo's gaze then shifted to look at Shampoo's. 
Seeing the matching love in both their eyes he wasted no time in 
signing his name. Turning to Shampoo he handed her the pen and 
said, "You next Shamchan."
	Returning his smile Shampoo leaned forward and to place the 
only neat signature on the page. When she finished the crowd erupted 
into cheers while Cologne rolled up the document and placed it 
somewhere within her gown.
	Meanwhile Shampoo had tossed the pen over her shoulder 
and was indulging in an embrace very similar to the one she had 
shared in private with both Ukyo and Ranma. It had only been 
seconds but they were already in wedded bliss.

	"It stinks," whined Ukyo as she sniffed the small cup Kasumi 
had just handed her. "Do I gotta drink it?"
	"Yes," replied Comb shortly. "You gotta. So just drink it 
already, would you?"
	Looking bemused at older woman's reaction Kasumi said in 
gentle tones, "Don't be difficult Ukyo. That's a special herbal recipe I 
just now learned from Comb-san. It will help sober you up." Smiling 
softly she added, "You don't want to pass out on your wedding night, 
do you?"
	Ukyo squinted her eyes and looked over at Ranma who was 
attempting to do the traditional Amazon dance with Shampoo then 
sighed. "I s'pose not," Ukyo muttered. "Don' wanna let Shamchan 
have all the fun." With that she quickly downed the contents of the 
entire cup and seconds after she did this she broke out into a loud 
coughing fit. Looking up at Comb she said in slurred speech, "Good 
stuff."
	At this Comb gave a short bark of amused laughter then said, 
"You're starting to grow on me kid. You might just be fun after all."
	"Thanks," Ukyo rasped as she leaned forward in an attempt 
to regain her breath. While she did this sandalwood eyes caught sight 
of a mussed Nabiki nearing with Perfume. "Hey," greeted Ukyo who 
was already starting to feel the effects of the herbal drink. "Whatcha 
been doing Nabchan?"
	Nabiki turned an interesting shade of red and smirking at this 
Perfume drew an arm around her waist. "We've been enjoying the 
spirit of celebration," purred Perfume. "Isn't that right, Airen?"
	"Right," Nabiki said as she offered a lame smile.
	Narrowing her eyes Ukyo opened her mouth to say 
something when suddenly she found herself being pulled out of her 
seat by a laughing Ranma and Shampoo. With playful shouts they 
demanded she join them in dancing and soon the threesome 
disappeared into the crowd again.
	"That was close," said Nabiki with a sigh. She then scowled 
slightly at Perfume. "Really subtle Perchan. It took her all of five 
seconds to see through that."
	"So?" said Perfume lazily while she ran her finger down the 
length of Nabiki's arm which caused the other girl to shiver. "You care 
what she think?"
	Meeting sapphire eyes Nabiki sighed again then shook her 
head in a slow movement as she said, "You know me too well. You 
do know that, right?"
	"Yes," Perfume smiled. "And that the way I like it."
	The couple moved in for a sweet embrace and when they 
parted Comb, who had been watching the exchange with interest, 
smiled with devilish humor. "So," she began. "What does enjoying the 
spirit of the celebration mean anyway?"
	As Nabiki and Perfume locked their eyes in a hapless gaze 
Comb broke out into raucous laughter while Kasumi had the smallest 
smile of amusement on her features.

	"Cologne," said Lotion solemnly. "We must talk."
	Eyeing her fellow Elder with some surprise Cologne 
questioned, "Why so serious? This is a celebration."
	"He's training them as Lore Masters," Lotion hissed. When 
she saw Cologne's eyes widen she continued, "Now will you talk with 
me?"
	"Of course," said Cologne in dazed shock. She gave a short 
nod then swiftly turned on her staff. "Follow me. We'll discuss this in 
the privacy of my cabin."
	Silently the two Elders made their way through the large 
crowd of people and for the most part their exit went unnoticed. 
Unnoticed by everyone but Silk whose tawny gaze narrowed and 
observed them in certain speculation.

	"I win!" exclaimed Atsuko triumphantly. "You see Genchan? 
I'm still stronger than you! You can't beat me!"
	"Uh-uh," said Genma stubbornly. "Lets go again. I'm gonna 
beat you this time for sure."
	Laughing lightly at this Nodoka said, "I'd surrender to her 
superiority if I were you. Atchan's already beat you eleven times now. 
If you keep this up you'll just get hurt."
	"Feh," sniffed Genma. He did a silly muscle man pose from 
the chair he sat in. "I'm in tip top condition. There's no way she'll hurt 
me. Besides," he formed a lascivious smile. "If she hurts me we can't 
have fun tonight."
	"Not true," purred Nodoka. She moved closer to lean on Silk 
who was still staring off into the distance. "If you get hurt Silk-chan 
can just heal you. That means that if she wants to Atchan can go all 
out with you."
	"All out?" Genma gave a nervous gulp as he looked to Atsuko 
who had an almost bloodthirsty gleam in her eyes.
	"All out," said Atsuko in a low feline rumble that caused both 
Nodoka and Genma to shiver. "This is going to be lots of fun 
Genchan. You ready?"
	Wearing a nervous expression Genma placed his elbow down 
on the table and prepared for another intense bout of arm wrestling 
with Atsuko.
	Nodoka watched this with amusement as Genma lost yet 
again and this time the strength of Atsuko's arm pressing his to the 
table was so great that the pair went toppling over to land in a heap 
on the ground. Laughing more than she had in years Nodoka turned 
to say something to Silk and was caught by the far off look in her 
eyes.
	"Silk-chan?" questioned Nodoka. "Is something the matter? 
You look so pale."
	Snapping out of her mesmerized state Silk looked to Nodoka 
and offered a warm smile. "I'm fine. I was just trying to figure out why 
Elders Cologne and Lotion left the party in such a hurry and with such 
looks upon their faces. They had the look of death itself."
	"Well," began Nodoka as she formed a wry smile. "Why don't 
you just go and find that out for yourself? I know you're dying to. Go 
on," she gave Silk a playful shove. "I give you my utmost approval. I'll 
stay here with Tweedledum and Tweedledee until you get back."
	Giving Nodoka a look of gratitude Silk squeezed her arm 
gently before rising to her feet and disappearing into the crowd in 
search of the two missing Elders.
	"Hey," said Genma as his head popped up on the other side 
of the table. "Where's she going off to?"
	"Never mind that," Nodoka tapped him lightly on the nose. 
"What took you so long getting off the ground?"
	Just as Genma was blushing a light red hue Atsuko's unruly 
fawn colored head emerged and flashed a huge smile. "Dokachan!" 
she exclaimed. "Want to have fun and join us?"
	Chuckling softly Nodoka replied, "How could I refuse an 
invitation like that?"
	
	"When I first saw the twins I realized who they were but I 
never imagined that he would be training them in such matters," said 
Cologne in shocked tones.
	"Neither did I," responded Lotion. "Then again, I never 
expected to see the children again. I thought when he took them away 
that day we'd never see them grown."
	Nodding quietly at this Cologne narrowed her eyes and set 
her jaw. "He tricked us," she hissed. "We thought that he was doing 
us a favor when he took the twins off our hands but as usual he was 
only doing it for his own benefit."
	"Cologne?" questioned Lotion puzzled.
	"In their veins runs the blood of both Silk and Ichiro along 
with all the power that must come with it," continued Cologne. 
"Happosai wanted that power for himself and that's why he offered to 
take the children. He planned on making them his disciples all along." 
Shaking her head in slow regret she said, "I cannot even contemplate 
the power he has in his hands with the twins being utterly loyal to him."
	"My Goddess," said Lotion in horror. "What have we done?"
	A low chuckle filled the air and both Elders whirled around to 
see Happosai casually leaning against the far wall. "Don't be so 
dramatic," he began. "It isn't like I'm going to use the girls so I can 
take over the world."
	"Then what do you plan on using them for?" asked Cologne 
sharply.
	"I'm not using them at all," said Happosai simply. "As I 
remember it I was the only one who wanted the girls when they were 
born. Then again, their Mother never had the chance to want them. 
Isn't that right?" He paused to sniff as he said, "You didn't even have 
the curtsey to tell her that she had two beautiful baby girls. You had to 
lie about that too."
	"You don't fool us," Lotion growled. "We know you're up to 
something."
	"So?" Happosai mocked. "You can think whatever you like 
Lotion. All I know is that I raised and loved all my girls like they were 
my own. Is it so wrong to want to have powerful and loyal disciples to 
take over my school of martial arts when I finally pass?" He narrowed 
his eyes and gave them both a close study. "Neither of you fool me. 
Seeing Natsume and Kurumi has made the both of you remember the 
biggest mistake that you've ever made. Instead of taking responsibility 
for that mistake you'd rather blame it on me. Well, I'm afraid it won't 
work. Their banishment from their roots was all your doing. I at least 
gave the twins a hint of heritage even if they don't know who their 
Mother is."
	"And who is their Mother exactly?"
	The three ancient martial artists turned in the direction the 
quiet question was voiced from and were stunned to see Silk standing 
in the room with them. She took a hesitant step forward and with 
more strength behind her voice she asked.
	"Who is their Mother?"
	Her jaw tightly clenched and her eyes flaring with an 
uncontrollable anger Silk hissed.
	"It's me isn't it? It's me and you kept them from me! I'm those 
two girls Mother aren't I? Shaking with barely contained rage Silk 
screamed, "Aren't I?!"
	"Silk..." began Lotion.
	"NO!" shouted Silk. "No more of your lies! I don't want to 
hear any of it! There will never be a reason good enough to justify 
what you've done to me!"
	Lotion flinched at this then slowly began again, "It was 
Ichiro...  your children were under his influence when they were born. 
We didn't know if they would--"
	"Turn out like him?" finished Silk viciously. "They were my 
children too Grandmother! You had no right to take them away from 
me! I kept the pregnancy despite of how it came about so why would 
you think that his influence over my babies would have deterred me 
from wanting them?!"
	"It wasn't that," whispered Lotion. "We knew you'd want 
them but we weren't sure if you should be able to."
	"Why you--" growled Silk as she stalked forward.
	"That's enough Silk!" Cologne interrupted tersely. "We don't 
have time for your emotional outbursts."
	"Don't have time?" Silk said incredulously. "You lied to me 
about my children being dead and you took them away from me for 
nineteen years and you don't have time?!"
	"Precisely," said Cologne coolly. "We did what we thought 
was for the best Silk. Whether you want to admit it or not Ichiro is a 
part of the twins and that fact makes them possibly just as dangerous 
as he was. When the twins were born all three of us sensed a 
darkness in them that was nearly as strong as his own. It could have 
destroyed us and for a time we considered killing them." Silk paled at 
this then swiftly put on her mask of rage again but before she could 
say anything Cologne continued, "Then Happosai offered to raise the 
twins. As he made his escape with them we woke you from your 
trance and told you that your child was stillborn. Never thinking that 
one day you would discover the truth."
	"Why?" whispered Silk as she looked to Happosai. "Why did 
you do it?"
	Meeting her gaze solemnly Happosai replied, "Not everything 
evil should die. Some are meant for redemption especially ones as 
young as they were at the time."
	"All children are innocent," Silk said to herself as she formed a 
dazed expression. Suddenly she snapped her head up and bore her 
fiery gaze into the group. "I'm going to tell them everything. Tonight. 
They deserve to know the truth and to know me as soon as possible."
	Whirling around Silk started to phase out of the cabin when 
Lotion called, "No Silk! Let them be!" When Silk's eyes shifted to 
glare at her she softly added, "Let them have this one last night of 
peace before their world shatters."
	Holding their gaze for a long tense moment Silk faced forward 
and as she phased completely she said, "Fine. I'll tell them the truth 
tomorrow."
	Watching her exit an echoing silence filled the air as the three 
people remaining questioned the justice of their past decisions and the 
pain that they have caused.

	"That was great Oneechan!" exclaimed Ukyo as she bounded 
forward to envelope Natsume in a tight hug. When she pulled away 
she wore a wide grin. "I never knew that you were such a good 
dancer!"
	Natsume had a rosy tinge to her cheeks as she returned the 
smile and said, "We've gone to a few clubs on the road together. At 
first we went so Kurumi could get the people inside to buy her free 
food but I sort of ended up enjoying the dancing."
	"Me too," chirped Kurumi cheerfully. She paused to form an 
exaggerated expression of anger as she added, "Even if they always 
card me."
	Laughing at this Ukyo hooked arms with the twins as they 
made their way through the crowd and back to the huge table that 
was reserved for the newlyweds. The group around the table greeted 
them happily and as Ukyo plunked down in her seat between Ranma 
and Shampoo she said, "Whatcha been talking about?"
	"Oh nothing interesting," began Ranma mischievously.
	"Just you," finished Shampoo with a smirk.
	"I'm boring now?" Ukyo feigned insult. "Well this is gonna 
have to be remedied. Quick! Someone challenge me!"
	"What sort of challenge do you want?" questioned Nabiki in a 
low purr.
	Ukyo formed an exaggerated face of contemplation when she 
finally grinned lasciviously and said, "The kind that I get on my 
honeymoon."
	"That works," commented Nabiki.
	"Oh yeah," drawled Ukyo, her eyes twinkling.
	While Perfume gave Nabiki a sharp pinch to her ribs which 
the other girl yelped the figure of Kuno ran past with the same group 
of Amazons chasing after him.
	"Brother dear?" questioned Kodachi as she blinked. "Why are 
those women pursuing him? Has he insulted them?"
	"Tachi?" Ranma said while he watched his friend run away at 
top speeds. Looking to Shampoo he said, "Are they after him for the 
reasons I think they're after him?"
	"Is so," replied Shampoo nodding. "Want test him to see if 
make suitable Airen. Except he no take challenge."
	Chuckling at this Ukyo said, "Kuno always was a bit of a 
troublemaker. Just because he's sane shouldn't make any difference in 
that area."
	"Just Kuno?" said Akane wryly. "Doesn't Dachi get any credit 
in that department?"
	"Yes," sniffed Kodachi. "I believe I've caused my own amount 
of trouble in Nerima but if we're comparing who can be considered 
most adept that would be Kuonji-san."
	"Yeah," Ryoga snickered. "Ucchan's caused the most trouble 
out of everybody I know and I know a lot of people."
	"Hey!" exclaimed Ukyo in wounded tones. "I don't cause that 
much trouble!"
	At this statement everyone in the group exchanged wary 
glances and Ukyo groaned. With wide sandalwood eyes she turned to 
the twins and said, "Big sisters?"
	"I'm sorry little Ukyo," began Natsume.
	"But he's right," finished Kurumi.
	Wearing a small scowl Ukyo looked to Kasumi and 
questioned in sad pathetic tones, "Kasumi-chan?"
	"Ukyo," said Kasumi solemnly. "You're the biggest 
troublemaker I've ever known. And I grew up living with Akane and 
Nabiki."
	While Ukyo formed a deflated expression and had to be 
consoled by Ranma and Shampoo the two other Tendo sisters looked 
to their elder sibling.
	"Gee thanks sis," Nabiki said dryly.
	"What?" Kasumi raised an eyebrow. "It's true. You're the one 
who blackmailed your second grade teacher."
	"Once!" cried Nabiki as she threw her hands up in the air. "I 
only did it once and everyone keeps bringing it up!"
	"Sorry Oneechan," said Akane giggling. "But Kasumi is right. 
You are a troublemaker."
	Shooting Akane a dirty look Nabiki pointed out, "She said 
your name first, not mine."
	Akane blinked at this then focused on Kasumi. "What trouble 
did I get in?"
	"There is your habit of getting into constant fights with bullies," 
reminded Kasumi with quiet humor.
	"Oh yeah..." said Akane dimly.
	Squeezing her hand Ryoga said, "That sounds like a pretty 
good habit to me."
	"It's time," said Kodachi softly to herself. She then looked to 
Ryoga and Akane who despite their wide eyed appearance nodded in 
understanding. Kodachi focused on the three newlyweds and said, "I 
give you my humblest wishes for future happiness. Now I must take 
my leave in order to insure that my own takes root."
	"Kodachi?" questioned Ukyo while she watched the dark 
gymnast leave the table and dash into the crowd. She looked to 
Akane and Ryoga who were still present. "What was that all about?"
	"Uhm..." began Ryoga haplessly.
	"Hurry hurry run run Ryo!" shouted Atsuko as she ran past 
and grabbed the back of his shirt to drag Ryoga after her in a cloud of 
dust. "Mama mind shout that we'll be late! Hurry too dark pretty 
Akane! We not be late!"
	Quickly looking from Atsuko to the group Akane offered an 
apologetic look then took off after the exiting duo. Observing this 
Ranma said, "Weird..."
	"For certain," said Shampoo with a nod.
	"Dammit all!" growled Ukyo. "I wanna know what the hell is 
goin' on around here!"
	"Little Ukyo," began Natsume sharply.
	"Don't use profanity," finished Kurumi in scolding.
	"I'm sorry big sisters," said Ukyo complacently as she hung 
her head. "I've been trying to stop."
	"That's good," began Natsume in gentler tones.
	"We're proud of you," continued Kurumi smiling.
	"And we didn't mean to yell," finished Natsume.
	Ukyo beamed at this while Ranma leaned back in his seat and 
formed an innocent expression as he made the sound of a whip 
cracking. Ukyo glared at him for this as Shampoo chuckled and clung 
to the chef's arm as the three broke off into their own private 
conversation.
	"That was handled well."
	Lifting their gazes the twins looked up into the softly smiling 
face of Silk who was gazing at them so intensely that it seemed she 
was trying to memorize their features.
	"Thank you," replied Kurumi as she smiled. "We think it's the 
duty of a big sister to look after her little sister."
	"And a Mother's duty too," murmured Silk.
	"What was that?" asked Natsume sharply, her tawny eyes 
glinting with suspicion.
	"Nothing," said Silk quietly. She studied Natsume closer 
before she questioned, "Is something the matter?"
	"Yes," Natsume said coolly. "I'd like to know why you're here 
talking to us."
	"Natsume," hissed Kurumi in embarrassment. She turned to 
Silk and smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, she's not usually like this. 
It's just that--"
	"Our Mother was killed by Amazons," interrupted Natsume 
tightly. "And I'd rather not hear you speak of her or her duty to us. 
She was never given a chance to have them."
	With that Natsume abruptly rose to her feet and shoved away 
from the table to walk into the crowd. Kurumi watched this as she 
heaved a sigh while Silk remained frozen as she whispered, "Killed?"
	Meeting Silk's gaze Kurumi nodded sadly. "It was when we 
were still babies, she was killed by an group of rogue Amazons from 
her tribe." Seeing that Silk still wore an expression of shock she 
continued lamely, "I know we don't look like Amazons but we are. In 
fact, we might even be from this tribe. We're not really sure which 
tribe our Mother was a part of because the Master never told us."
	"Why?" said Silk hoarsely.
	"Why what?" Kurumi blinked.
	Clearing her throat Silk said slowly, "Why didn't he ever tell 
you the tribe?"
	"To protect us," said Kurumi simply. "If he told us then he 
risked us going to the tribe to get vengeance on the people who 
murdered our Mother. He didn't want us doing that and ending up 
dead because of it."
	"And your Father?" asked Silk. "What did Happosai tell you 
about him?"
	"He died in battle against an old enemy," informed Kurumi. 
She tilted her spiky dark brown head to one side and looked at Silk 
curiously. "Why are you asking me about all of this?" Before the Lore 
Master could reply Kurumi formed a face of pure elation as she 
exclaimed, "Did you know our Mother?! Is that it?"
	Smiling at Kurumi's infectious good nature Silk gazed at her 
with an expression of quiet longing as she said, "Yes. I know her."
	Just as Kurumi started to question her companion further 
Kuno suddenly came rushing towards the table and jumped under it 
right next to where both Kurumi and Kasumi was sitting. When his six 
Amazon pursuers came into sight looking for him the eldest Tendo 
sister subtly threw one of the wedding presents, an embroidered silk 
sheet, over his hunched figure.
	Halting in front of the table Dill Weed sheathed her sword and 
asked in broken Japanese, "You see male who we try get test 
strength?"
	"He went that way," said Kasumi in charming tones while she 
stood up and pointed into the far off distance. "If you hurry you might 
be able to catch him."
	Dill Weed gave a short nod of thanks then in a large cloud of 
dust she and her followers ran in the direction that Kasumi had 
indicated to. It was only when they were safely a mile away that Kuno 
lifted the silk sheet to poke his head out from under the table. His eyes 
filled with gratitude he said, "I am forever in your debt Tendo-san. 
These Amazon women are terribly forward."
	At this statement Kasumi formed a quirky smile and said, 
"Really? I couldn't tell."

	The light in Ganglot's temple was scarce and flickered across 
the chamber in scattered directions. One such shard of light crossed 
Kodachi's worried face as she took her place in the circle of people 
that surrounded Ganglot. Keeping her gaze fixed on the oni Kodachi 
silently reached her hand out to Akane who was standing next to her.
	When all their hands were linked Ganglot closed her golden 
eyes and tipped her silver head back as she stretched her arms into 
the air. <Concentrate,> she whispered in their minds. <Feel your 
chest rise with each breath. Focus on that and relax in the moment. 
Then the power will rise from you.>
	In silent agreement all in the group followed suit and closing 
their eyes they concentrated with their entire being. Soon the air was 
crackling with energy that was focused above Ganglot's head. 
Abruptly snapping open her eyes she shuddered as she felt a taste of 
its power. Though she had imbued her power to Ukyo from within the 
safe confines of her temple from which she drew power Ganglot was 
still feeling the effects of the drain. And now the sheer strength of the 
energy of her companions was overwhelming. Releasing a deep 
breath she calmed her body then focused on her mind. Her mind and 
her soul.
	It was time to talk to Sakura.
	Ganglot's body froze as if it were a statue and a glazed look 
covered her golden eyes as she stared transfixed ahead into 
nothingness. Her body may have been dead like an empty shell but 
her mind was very much alive and with it her soul. A soul that was 
entwined with Sakura's and it was time that they were finally 
separated.
	The plane of her mind was dark. That was the first change 
that Ganglot noted. When she had originally met the street fighter it 
wasn't this way. It was muddled and confused but it wasn't dark. 
There was a glow about it that sent waves of warmth flowing through 
her. A warmth that was no longer present. Instead it was a chill that 
ran down her spine as she stepped into Sakura's mindscape.
	"Well, well," a dry caustic voice pronounced. "Look who's 
finally come for a visit. I'm surprised you got here so fast what with 
the big reunion going on outside."
	Slowly out of the misty shadows the petite figure of Kurasuwa 
Sakura emerged to stand before her. She wore a biting expression on 
her features and her green eyes glowed with an intense ferocity that 
hadn't been there before. There was a clear look of challenge in her 
gaze. Challenge matched with disdain and deep loathing.
	"Sakura," began Ganglot. "It's time. I need your help to do 
this. Only together will we be able to find where our minds and souls 
begin then end."
	"Whoop-dee-doo," said Sakura sarcastically as she flopped 
down in a recliner that suddenly appeared. "Don't you think I already 
knew that? I can hear all your thoughts instantly from here. They're my 
entertainment." She suddenly rose to her feet and stopped inches from 
the oni to stare her hard in the eyes. "I know how you have to 
separate us," she hissed. "I was the one possessed so you have to 
unwind your soul from mine. Your mind from mine. Your feelings from 
mine. Rip them apart piece by piece then somehow put them back 
together." Sakura paused to tilt her head as she studied Ganglot 
carefully. "But now you don't think you can do it, do you? You think it 
might push me over the edge so you want to test me here. To see how 
I'll react. Isn't that right?"
	"Yes," replied Ganglot in a whisper.
	Chuckling softly Sakura shook her head as she drew away 
from the oni. "Too late for that," she said snidely. "I've already been 
pushed over the edge too many times to count since I've been locked 
in here. In fact, I think I've been over the edge since the day I fell into 
the damned spring."
	"You didn't fall," said Ganglot quietly. "I pulled you to me."
	"Thank you so much for reminding me about that, I almost 
forgot for a moment there," said Sakura sarcastically. Whirling around 
she faced Ganglot then continued, "I don't want your sympathy or 
your apologies. You did what you did and now you gotta fix it. That's 
what you're here to do so stop being so fucking sensitive and just fix 
it!" Sakura slowly neared the oni until they were so close that Ganglot 
could feel the street fighter's breath on her skin. "I can take whatever 
you can give me. Trust me on that."
	Giving no reply Ganglot silently lifted her tapered hands to 
gently place them on Sakura's forehead and when Sakura mimicked 
this action with Ganglot the world around them shifted from the stark 
plane of darkness into a vast realm of shifting rainbow streams. The 
streams which flowed all around of them held an unknown amount of 
feelings and memories in their depths. With a sudden jolt they 
recognized their true owners and dove into their body to slowly 
rebuild the individuality that had been lost in the possession.
	The sounds of her parents fighting and the slam of the front 
door echoing as her father left for the very last time.
	Sakura.
	The slow inevitable pain of seeing her husband slain in battle 
and the ostracism brought about by his tribe.
	Ganglot.
	The smell of the fresh cut grass in the park filling her nostrils as 
she lazily discussed the day's events with Ukyo as they cuddled 
underneath the oak tree.
	Sakura.
	The melodic laugh of her daughter during her first clumsy 
attempt at flying in the brilliant blue sky.
	Ganglot.
	The numbness of mind and body when she found Ukyo gone 
without a trace.
	Sakura.
	The sudden pull from the mortal plane that caused a terror for 
her daughter's safety as she was torn away from her life into the 
forced prison of a Jusenkyo spring.
	Ganglot.
	The overwhelming fear that filled her system while she 
watched the cursed waters get closer and closer until she sunk into 
their depths only to lose herself.
	Sakura.
	The exhilarating freedom that lasted mere seconds before she 
froze on finally seeing her Grandson in the flesh only to be met with a 
splash of hot water from him.
	Ganglot.
	The reunion with Ukyo that brought both pain and pleasure 
unmarked in her life.
	Sakura.
	The slow madness of watching life and feeling emotions she 
could never hope to share.
	Ganglot.
	The intoxication of her scent... of Kodachi.
	Sakura.
	The steady invasion of mind and soul.
	Ganglot.
	The twisting illogic of madness taking hold.
	Sakura.
	The rush of power as her last disciple returns.
	Ganglot.
	The helpless terror on feeling her mind and soul slip away into 
something she never wanted.
	Sakura.
	The freedom.
	Ganglot.
	The captivity.
	Sakura.
	The separation.
	Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. 
Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. 
Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. 
Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot. Sakura. Ganglot.
	The madness.
	The control.
	The love.
	The hate.
	The separation.

	"Is complete."
	None were sure just who said those words as the wafting blue 
smoke rose off of the two collapsed bodies in the center of the 
chamber. In a daze the group slowly moved forward and as the last of 
the smoke cleared they saw Sakura and Ganglot as they truly were.
	Sakura with her spiky chocolate brown hair always unruly and 
a compact petite frame.
	Ganglot with her shining silver hair that glowed in the 
moonlight and a long svelte frame.
	Both free and separated.

To be continued...

All characters in this fanfiction are from Ranma 1/2. With the 
exceptions of: Sakura who is from Street Fighter; Perfume who is 
borrowed from the Most Unlikely Of Friends by Wade Tritschler; 
Ganglot who is an original creation by yours truly and the name 
Shinguuji along with the sword arataka are both taken from the 
Sakura Wars. This fanfiction was inspired by the works of the great 
goddess Rumiko Takahashi, Wade Tritschler, Jim Robert Bader, and 
many other cool folks. 

Author's note: My life got a bit crazy in the past months so please 
forgive the long delay for this chapter. Much thanks to my brother 
Rick for his all pre-reading help.

Send comments to: Dreiser1@ix.netcom.com

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

Thanks to Red Death all my fanfics are archived at:
http://www.lvdi.net/~reddeath/dreiser.htm

Next up: Sakura and Ganglot are separated but will Sakura succeed 
in regaining her old life? Her first step is to seek out and join the 
annual street fighting tournament.

"I wish I could tie you up in my shoes and make you feel unpretty too. 
I was told I was beautiful but what does that mean to you? Look into 
the mirror, who's inside there?"
-TLC-