This update is probably around 10+kbs shy of the actual conclusion to
this series. All the unanswered questions throughout the series should
most likely be answered in the next update. 

To anoyone who haven't read this fic, you can find the previous
parts/chapters/updates of it on my website.
http://www.anime.sobhrach.com/~jeffwong/ 

I'm sorry for any grammar or spelling mistakes. I have yet to edit this.
What I have updated is just the rough draft. Once I'm finished with this
fic, I'll go back and edit it for mistakes.



Jeffrey "OneShot" Wong




<new stuff 8/19>



 
(We are in front of a mansion located approximately fifty miles west of
Nerima. The mansion is not as big as Shori's nor Kuno's but it is what
people would consider a mansion or real close too it. It has a rather
vast front yard that had a nice groove of trees to to either side of the
trail leading to the front door. A drive way veers off from the trail,
leading to a six-car garage located next to the mansion. We see Ranma
looking at the address number located on the front gate.)

Ranma: (Looking at piece of paper)Hm, the paper says that this is the
right address.(Puts paper back in his pocket)Well, let's go pay Kisen and
Sayuri a visit.

(Ranma presses on the front gate doorbell button located right under the
intercom. As he does, he notices a tiny camera located slight off to the
right and on top of the wall. A male voice emanates from the intercom.)

Voice: Yes?

Ranma: Hi, I'm Ranma Saotome. Is Kisen or Sayuri around?

Voice: Yes, they both are. 

Ranma: Can I see them?

Voice: Who are you?

Ranma: I just told you. Ranma Saotome.

Voice: How do you know Kisen-sama and Kisen-sama?

Ranma: I'm the one responsible for they being here in the first
place.(Thinking)Heh, that should get that person's attention. However,
it's actually Sayuri that's the reason why they're here, but I'm happy to
have taken a small part in helping.

Voice: Oh, I didn't know that. I apologize. Please, come in.

(There is a click and the front gate starts opening, the gate sliding
toward the right. Ranma walks through and makes his way to the front gate
where there is a well dressed man in a butler uniform there to greet
him.)

Ranma: (Thinking)I guess I shouldn't be surprised. Sayuri mentioned that
her sister used to be married to a pretigious man that was very wealthy.

Bulter: Welcome.

Ranma: Thanks.

Bulter: Please, come on in. I'll get get them for you.

Ranma: Cool.

(Ranma follows the butler inside and to the livingroom where he is
expected to wait. He looks around that the living room is sparsely
furnished with very modern furniture, giving the area a retro look.)

Butler: Please, have a seat.

Ranma: I've got a question. I'm just curious about something.

Butler: Sure, what is it?

Ranma: You're the butler of this house, right?

Butler: That is correct.

Ranma: (Smirks)You wouldn't happen to know of a butler that works for a
Kuno Family or Hyusa Family?

Butler: Um, no. Why do you ask?

Ranma: Nevermind.(Thinking)I figured all butlers perhaps knew each other.


Butler: Very well. I'll go get Sayuri-sama and Kisen-sama for you.

Ranma: Thanks.

(Ranma looks at a weird looking seat, wondering exactly how to sit in in.
It was one of those backless seats where entire body weight was
distrubuted not only on the backside, but also on to the knees since
there was a small cushion halfway down the seat for the knees to rest.)

Ramna: Is this even a seat?

(Ranma was trying to sit on the knee rest, figuring the other cushion
would be a cushion for his elbows, when Sayuri entered the livingroom.)

Sayuri: What are you doing?

Ranma: Trying to figure out how you sit in this thing.

Sayuri: You don't sit like that.

(Ranma gets up as Sayuri shows him the proper way to sit.)

Ranma: Oh.

Sayuri: (Smiles)I guess that's besides the point. What brings you here?
This is a pleasant surprise.

Ranma: I came to visit to see how things are going.

Sayuri: Everything's going fine. My sister and Kawa, are expected to go
out to dinner tonight.

Ranma: Didn't you say that he was sick and had cancer?

Sayuri: Well, yes, he has cancer, but that doesn't mean he can't go out
and is bed-ridden.

Ranma: Oh.

Sayuri: Well, I'm glad you came. It kinda gets boring around here.

Ranma: Where are you staying?

Sayuri: Here, in the guest bedroom. I'm only going to be here till the
end of the week so I'm not really much of a burden.

Ranma: Ah.

Sayuri: My sister is really glad to be back. She's a much different
person now than when she had left and she had come to realize that Kawa
still loves her.

Ranma: What does she think of him?

Sayuri: She doesn't love him, but she cares about him. Her past and what
happened with our other two sisters had a profound effect on her. I think
she'll learn to love him but it'll probably take a long time.

Ranma: I'm glad to hear it. She must be happy that she gave him another
chance.

Sayuri: Yeah. So, how  long can you stay? Does Shori know you're here?

Ranma: I can only stay for about half an hour. It would have been for
longer but things kept occupying my time that I find myself with little
of it while visiting.

Sayuri: (Smiles)It's all right. I'm happy you visited. Why, you have to
be somewhere at a certain time?

Ranma: Yeah, Shori and I have a date tonight.

Sayuri: Really? Where?

Ranma: I'm not too sure. I haven't decided.

Sayuri: Did you make reservations?

Ranma: ................

Sayuri: If the two of you are going to be going on a date together, then
it generally helps to make reservations in advance.

Ranma: Oh man, I completely forgot! 

Sayuri: ...............

Ranma: It totally escaped me that we actually had to make reservations
for a nice restaurant. I figured that I'd meet up with Shori and we'd
just go out and eat.

Sayuri: Well, you can still do that, if you don't plan on going to a
fancy restaurant.

Ranma: But I want it, it's a really special occasion.

Sayuri: Well, have you decided which restaurant you want to go to?

Ranma: Not really. I haven't really been to fancy restaurants before. The
only one I remember going to was this French one.

Sayuri: French one, huh? You know what's the name?

Ranma: No.

Sayuri: Where's it located? Perhaps I know.

Ranma: Tokyo. Not too far from where I live.

Sayuri: Tokyo, huh?

Ranma: Yeah.

Sayuri: Wait, would it happen to be called 'Pour Deux'?

Ranma: (Recognizing)Yeah, that's it! Wow, how'd you know if it? Have you
ever eaten there?

Sayuri: Yes. I ate there a couple times with Kawa and my sister. This was
before she left for Joketsuzoku. She always felt uncomfortable about
being alone with Kawa, because of her misconception that he was like our
sister's husbands so she didn't sometimes requested that I came along.
Anyway, how do you like the place?

Ranma: (Remembering)I had a brush in with the waiter...I mean maitre 'd
in there. I wanted deck him.

Sayuri: Really? Did you?

Ranma: No. I wanted to, but I didn't want to make a scene or embarrass
Shori. I didn't want to ruin the date.(Looks at hand)Funnily enough, I
remember I was holding a glass in my hand when that guy was insulting me,
right in front of Shori too. I was doing everything I can to control
myself. The glass ended up breaking in my hand.

Sayuri: .................um, I guess that restaurant's out of the
question then for the day.

Ranma: That was in the past. I didn't really get a chance to enjoy the
meal because I was pretty upset most of the time because of that guy.
Maybe if I go this time around, he won't be there and I'll be able to
have an enjoyeable meal with Shori.

Sayuri: What happen if he is?

Ranma: (Smirks)I dare him to try something again.

Sayuri: .................

Ranma: Don't worry, I'll just request another maitre 'd. Problem solved.

Sayuri: That's a good idea. 

Ranma: I remember that restaurant. It was very extravangent, a perfect
place and setting to make that date even more special.

Sayuri: It is a fancy restaurant.

Ranma: (Reaches in to pocket)There's a reason why.

Sayuri: Why's that?

Ranma: (Producing box)I'm gonna ask Shori to become my fiancee.

Sayuri: Really?

Ranma: Yeah.

Sayuri: (Very interested)Can I see the ring?

Ranma: Sure.

(Ranma hands the tiny box to Sayuri. She opens it, expecting to see a
great big diamond ring. She is surprised when she sees anything but that.
Rather, it looked like a really cheap ring.)

Sayuri: Um...............

Ranma: Whatcha think?

Sayuri: Um, are you sure you want to give this ring?

Ranma: Yeah. Why, what's wrong with it?

Sayuri: Something as important and precious as an engagment ring should
look much nicer than this. No offense.

Ranma: None taken. I thought it was cheap too, too cheap actually...

Sayuri: So why'd you get this one? 

Ranma: It seems to have sentimental value. Shori's two best friends
picked it out. I have no reason to doubt their judgement.

Sayuri: I get it. I'm sorry. I shouldn'tve judge you so quickly.

Ranma: It's not a problem. Actually, the saleswoman that rung up the
purchase thought the same thing.

Sayuri: She did?

Ranma: Yeah. She kept trying to convince me to buy some other ring.

Sayuri: Perhaps she wanted you to buy the ring that she would love to
receive if she were being proposed to.

Ranma: You think?

Sayuri: Perhaps.

Ranma: Hm. I never thought about it.

Sayuri: (Smiles)I must say, you really know how to make a girl feel
special. Popping a question like that and in such a romatic and
extravagant restaurant such as Pour Deux is going to be somehing Shori'll
never forget.

Ranma: (Grins)I'm hoping for that.

Sayuri: Well, if you've been there, you'll know that that's a formal
restaurant.

Ranma: Way ahead of ya.(Gestures toward bag off to side)My outfit is in
there.

Sayuri: Can I see it?

Ranma: Sure.

(Sayuri pulls out the outfit. She seems awed at the sight of it.)

Sayuri: Wow, this is a nice outfit. I know you have a thing for Chinese
outfits, but this is definitely the cream of the crop.

Ranma: Thanks. I haven't worn it though.

Sayuri: What?! Why not?

Ranma: No real need. It'll fit.

Sayuri: How can you tell without trying it?

Ranma: I did. I held it in front of me while I looked at a mirror.

Sayuri: That's not how you judge if clothes fit.

Ranma: Yes it is.

Sayuri: ....................

Ranma: Like this outfit I wear. It fits me fine, right?

Sayuri: Well, yeah, it does.

Ranma: I checked the size of this outfit like I did for that outfit.

Sayuri: Hm, well, I guess I can't argue then. Still, it seems rather odd.
That's all.(Smiles)Well, it seems like you're well prepared for it.

Ranma: Yeah.

Sayuri: Well, you should make the phone call and set up the reservation
time.

Ranma: But I dunno what the number is.

Sayuri: (Smirks)I assume not. That's what telephone books are. I remember
seeing one in the kitchen. Let's go there.

Ranma: Okay.

(Ranma follows Sayuri in to the kitchen. Ranma pauses to look around. The
kitchen looked very modern, most of it made of stainless steel. He
accidentally bumps in to Kisen as she was also on her way in to the
kitch.)

Ranma: Sorry.

(Ranma regards her. She is wearing a very elegant looking dress. She it
was a long red evening gown with an open back and a low cut front. Kisens
hair was done up in to a bun. She was wearing an expensive looking
necklace and was in the process of putting on an earing when she bumped
in to Ranma.)

Ranma: Whoa, nice dress.

Kisen: (Blshing)T-thank you. I'm sorry I didn't come to greet you early.
I was busy getting dressed.

Ranma: Seems so. Must've taken ya awhile to get dolled up and all. 

Kisen: Quite. I'm not used to all of this, dressing up and all. Keep in
mind that I was living the life of a Joketsuzoku villager just one day
ago.

Sayuri: At least it didn't take you that long to get ready. Some girls
take as long as two hours to get ready to go out. That's just too much.

Ranma: Um, so, how're you getting adjusted, or should I saw readjusted,
to, um, this kinda life. I dunno what you call it. That high society
thing. Artistocrap?

Sayuri: (Laughs)That sounds about right.

Ranma: What, you don't like this kinda stuff?

Sayuri: No. Not at all. I know how to act accordingly, but I hate having
to do so.

Ranma: Ah, that's why you're interested in working with Marlena as on the
ship.

Sayuri: Right. It's not prestigious or anything, but it's somehting I
like. I may have been bred and taught to be one of those kind of people,
but that's just not me.

Ranma: Bad blood I guess, huh? 

Sayuri: ...............yeah.

Ranma: You seemed happy when you were on the ship. Perhaps cooking is
what you like best.

Sayuri: I think so too.

(A older-looking man enters the kitchen. He is dressed in a nice tuxedo.
He is rather handsome but seems to look older than he really is, as if
the cancer he was suffering from was finally starting to have an effect
on him. His greying temples makes him seem more mature rather than simply
older. He is about as tall as Ranma.)

Man: (Notice Ranma)Good evening. You must be Ranma.

Ranma: How're y'doing?

Man: (Smiles)Very happy, thanks to you. My name's Kawa Hayabusa.

Ranma: Glad to meet you.

Kawa: I haven't heard much about you, but I would like to get to know you
better, as well as showing you my appreciation for getting me a second
chance with Kisen here.

Ranma: Not a problem. Besides, it wasn't all because of me.

Kawa: I know. I've thanks Sayuri here a thousand times.

Sayuri: That he did. So much it started to annoy me.(Goes about looking
for phone book)

Kawa: Are you looking for something?

Sayuri: Didn't you use to keep a phone book around here?

Kawa: You could have asked the butler to fetch it.

Sayuri: I'd prefer to do it myself.

Kawa: (Gestures)There's one located on the shelf in that desk.

(Sayuri walks over to the desk and fetches out a phone book.)

Kisen: What do you need a phone book for?

Sayuri: To make a reservation for a restaurant.

Kawa: Which restaurant might that be?

Sayuri: Pour Deux.

Kawa: Ah, a fine establishment.

Kawa: Um, do you plan on eating dinner there tonight?

Ranma: Yeah.

Kawa: I doubt they'll let you in to their busy schedule. You usually have
to make reservations at least month in advance.

Ranma: A m-month in advance?!!

Kawa: Yes.

Ranma: What?! How is that possible? Who the heck knows what they're doing
a month from now?

Kawa: That restaurant is really popular.

Ranma: How is that possible? A month? Jeez. I don't get it. I remember
being able to get reservations there no problem. Wait, actually, I
didn't. Mr. Hyusa made the reservations.

Kawa: (Double take)D-did you say Mr. Hyusa?

Ranma: Yeah. Why?

Kawa: Mr. Hyusa? As in Tsuki Hyusa?

Ranma: Yeah. He made reservations for me and Shori. I had the feeling he
only made reservations earlier in the day, not a month in advance. Heck,
that's not possible. How did he know that I was gonna meet his daughter a
month from when he made the call for the reservations?

Kawa: (Laughs)I don't know what your relationship is with the Hyusa
family is, but you shouldn't be surprised to know that Mr. Hyusa is a
very influential man. He probably made reservations on the same day as
when he wanted you and his daughter to eat there.

Ranma: Really?

Kawa: It's only natural. He owns that restaurant.

Ranma: Really? Didn't know that. I thought he was just the CEO of Aido
Airline.

Kawa: Well, yes, he is, but his influence expands beyond just that. He is
a very good business man, actually very cut throat.

Ranma: How do you know him?

Kawa: The Hyusa's hosts many parties throughout the year at their estate.
Many influential people, ranging from high level polititians to movie
stars to even the prime minister of Japan attend those parties. They
usually host once a month throughout the year. I've attended those and
have met them a few years ago.

Ranma: Oh.

Kawa: You and their dauter are seeing each other?

Ranma: (Smiles)A bit more. We love each other.

Kawa: That's good to hear. She is a very sweet girl and I was honored to
meet her. Strange though, I never heard about you and her seeing each
other. Surely it would have been mentioned at one of their paries.

Ranma: Um, probably because I only met their daugther not even a month
ago.

Kawa: Ah. I understand.

Ranma: (Smiles)Well, if he owns the restaurant, then I guess he should
have no problem getting me and Shori reservations there.

Kawa: Yes.

Ranma: Hm, better call him then.(Reaches in to pocket)Damn, I don't have
Shori's cell phone.

Kawa: You can use my phone.

Ranma: (Meek smile)I dunno what the number for the house is. Actually, I
have it on a piece of paper, but I never remembered it. Boy am I
regretting it now.

Kawa: That's not a problem, just look in the phone book. 

Ranma: Oh yeah.(Proceeds to look through phonebook)

Kawa: (Looking at rolex watch)Well, it's about time we should get going.

Kisen: You're right.

Kawa: It is very nice meeting you. Take care.

Kisen: Goodbye, Ranma. I'm sorry I didn't have a chance to talk with you.
Will you be still here when we get back?

Ranma: Unfortunately, no.

Kisen: (Sadly)Oh, what a shame. Will you be coming back?

Ranma: Yeah.

Kisen: (Smiles)Good. I'll be sure to make some free time then.

Ranma: Okay. Um, enjoy your dinner together.

Kawa: (Smiles warmly)We will. And good luck with getting reservations.

Ranma: Thanks.

(Kisen and Kawa leave together. Ranma finally finds the number for the
Hyusa's home. He looks around for a phone, unable to find it.)

Ranma: Where's the phone?

(Sayuri smirks. She presses a button located by the kitchen entrance.
Ranma jumps in surprise as a small trap door open and up emerges a phone
on a stand.)

Ranma: Man. Who the heck would wanna phone under the floor and wanna
hafta hit a button to have it pop out? Why not just hang it on the damn
wall?

Sayuri: That's how high society differs from regular working class
society.

Ranma: (Shrugs)Whatever. I think it's stupid.

(Ranma picks up receiver and dials the number. After only one right,
someone on the other side picks up.)

Butler: Hello? Hyusa residence.

Ranma: Hey. This is Ranma.

Butler: Ah. Ranma. What can I do for you?

Ranma: Is Mr. Hyusa there?

Butler: Why yes, he is. He just got in from work a short moment ago.
Would you like to speak to him?

Ranma: Yeah. Please. Thanks.

(Ranma is put on hold. After a minutes, he hears Mr. Hyusa's voice.)

Mr. Hyusa: (Grinning) Hello, Ranma, what do you need help with again?

Ranma: ................I'm not doing this because I'm lazy or somethin'.
I'd do this on my own if I could.

Mr. Hyusa: (Smiles)I know.

Ranma: (Clears throat)Anyway, I was wondering if you can help me get
reservations for nine at a restaurant you own, Pour Deux.

Mr. Hyusa: Pour Deux. Of course. How did you know I owned
it?(Thinking)Ranma seems to be really good at finding things out.

Ranma: A man named Kawa Hayabusa told me.

Mr. Hyusa: Ah, I remember him. How do you know him?

Ranma: I just met him today. I was visiting Sayuri and Kisen. It seems
like the two of you know each other. When he found out that I knew you,
he told me that you own that restaurant.

Mr. Hyusa: Well, he is correct. I do own it. And I'll be happy to help
you out.(Thinking)So that's why Shori seemed happy today. She and Ranma
are going on a date together, and to Pour Deux for that matter.

Ranma: (Realizes something)Am I supposed to have your blessing or
something?

Mr. Hyusa: Huh?

Ranma: I've never done this before, but I wanna ask Shori for her hand in
marriage. Ain't I supposed to have your blessing or something?

Mr. Hyusa: H-hand in marriage? Y-you want to marry my
daughter?!(Thinking)So soon. I knew they loved each other and I'm happy
for them, but marriage?! At this age?!

Ranma: Ain't that supposed to be how it works? That if I wanna marry your
daughter, I should have your blessing?

Mr. Hyusa: (Curiously)And what if I don't give you my
blessing?(Thinking)They're too young, way too young. I don't know if I
can accept this.

Ranma: Um, I dunno. I guess I'd ask her anyway.

Mr. Hyusa: ....................

Ranma: It's be cool if you give me your blessing though.

Mr. Hyusa: I think you two are too young for marriage.

Ranma: You think I wanna get married right away? No way! I just wanna ask
her to marry me, if she'd accept. If she does, I don't think I'd wanna
marry for at least a few years.

Mr. Hyusa: Then why ask now?

Ranma: Why not?

Mr. Hyusa: (Smirks)You don't really know how this engagment thing goes,
do you?

Ranma: Not really. I've never done this before. I usually get thrown in
to engagment against my will. I'm just fumbling my way through this
hoping I'm doing it somewhat right. 

Mr. Hyusa: (Laughs)Your character is refreshing, Ranma. That's why I like
you.

Ranma: Thanks. You're cool too. So, do I have your blessing?

Mr. Hyusa: Yes, because you're going to wait before getting married.

Ranma: Thanks.

Mr. Hyusa: Um, if you're going to ask her to marry you, you do know
you're supposed to have an engagment ring, right?

Ranma: Yeah. I've got one. 

Mr. Hyusa: What's it look like?(Thinking)I have no real idea what is
considered a good ring or not but I might as well ask.

Ranma: Cheap.

Mr. Hyusa: What?

Ranma: Cheap. I got hera really really cheap right. I think it was the
cheapest ring in the jewelry store.

Mr. Hyusa: ..................

Ranma: It's kinda small too, the diamond.

Mr. Hyusa: ..................

Ranma: And it the more I look at it, the more I wonder if this is an
actual diamond or one of those cubic draconian gems instead?

Mr. Hyusa: ...........do you mean cubic zirconian?(Thinking)Strange, what
Ranma described kind of reminds me of what I the engagment ring I got my
wife. The diamond turned out to be real but for some reason, she loved
that ring. I still don't know way. 

Ranma: Yeah.

Mr. Hyusa: ...............(Thinking)I know Shori isn't materialistic or
anything and isn't even spoiled despite the fact that she can have
anything she wants, but shouldn't Ranma at least try and get her
something more fitting, at least based on her status?

Ranma: I found out that this ring happens to be the same ring you got
your wife. I had Akemi and Reia's help. Turns out that she gives it
sentimental value.

Mr. Hyusa: D-do you know why she likes it? Shori that is.

Ranma: Dunno. Something about how she believes that it wasn't the price
the mater but what it symbolized. Something to do with how you shoveled
to come up with money to buy one for your wife. I dunno the true details.
Shori liked it because it symbolized the hard work used to getting the
ring that you got your wife. It was the work that ring symbolizes behind
your buying the ring for your wife that Shori wants.

Mr. Hyusa: Y-you think that's why my wife liked the ring I got her so
much?

Ranma: Yeah.

Mr. Hyusa: Yes! I finally know!

Ranma: Huh?

Mr. Hyusa: (Embarrassed)N-nevermind.(Clears throat)I guess it seems
you've made a good choice.

Ranma: Thanks. I hope she likes it.

Mr. Hyusa: If she reacts to it anything like the way my wife reacted to
when I got her one, they she'd be estatic.

Ranma: Good. 

Mr. Hyusa: Okay. I'll go make the call.

Ranma: Oh yeah, thanks for the transfer. I went to school and told them
about my switching. They didn't seem to have a problem with it.

Mr. Hyusa: It's not a problem.

Ranma: We'll I guess I'll be going now. I'll be by at around eight to
eight thirty.

Mr. Hyusa: Okay. I'll go make the call.

Ranma: Thanks again.

(Ranma hangs up the phone. Back at Mr. Hyusa's home office, we see him
hanging up the phone. He then reaches for the rolodex located at the side
of the desk and begins thumbing through it until he comes up to the
information for Pour Deux. He dials the phone number and is answer after
a couple of rings.)

Mr. Hyusa: Hello. Who am I speaking to?

(The phone conversation lasts for only a few minutes before he hangs up
the phone, a smile on his lips. He then goes about reading his newspaper.
Back at the Hayabusa mansion, Ranma and Sayuri are heading toward the
living room.)

Ranma: He says it's okay. He'll do it. I've got reservations.

Sayuri: Wow. I guess it helps to be seeing the daughter of someone so
influential.

Ranma: .................

Sayuri: Um, did I say something wrong?

Ranma: I wanna stop asking him for help. This guy's helped me out so much
already.

Sayuri: He seems to be very helpful.

Ranma: He is, but I like to do things on my own if possible. 

Sayuri: When you and Shori marry, he'll be your father-in-law. You know
that, right?

Ranma: Yeah. It don't bother me. If I'm marrying Shori, that's because I
wanna marry Shori, not because I want him as a father-in-law.

Sayuri: (Smiles)You've got a point.

(Time changes. We find ourselves following after Ranma as he heads home.)

Ranma: (Looks at watch)Seven thirty. Plenty of time.

(Ranma spots a poster. He comes to a sliding halt as he gets a good look
at it. It's shows a picture of a very well-defined man in a fighting pose
looking back at him. Ranma instantly recognizes that man. He had seen
pictures of him in many martial arts magazine. It's the number one ranked
fighter in the world. The poster gave information of an upcoming fight of
his.)

Ranma: (Smirks)Kenmaru, huh?(Thinking)Boon basically had him beat but
actually gave up because he was pressed for time. 

(Ranma walks over and rips the poster down and crumples it, throwing it
in a nearby trash can. He notices another poster displaying another well
defined man facing toward him, his fists in boxing gloves. Ranma reads
the information. It mentions of this fighter's scheduled fight, a fight
totally unrelated the last poster he saw.)

Ranma: (Smirks)Heavyweight boxing champion, huh? Not for long.

(Ranma rips off the poster and folds it up, putting it in his pocket. He
continues on his way. As he is approximately five miles away from Shori's
place, he spots a boxing gym. He looks up at the sign. It says 'Katsukawa
Gym'. Ranma knows it's not a workout gym, but rather, a boxing gym where
boxers would train for upcoming fights as well as become more toned.)

Ranma: They should have some information and be able to answer a few of
my questions.

(Ranma enters the gym. Upon entering, he feels a huge wave of
testosterone hit him. He looks around and sees five giant heavy sandbags,
five large guys wearing punching gloves punching at it. The chains
hanging from the high hanging rafts supporting the individual punching
bags rattles loudly with each hit.)

Ranma: Big guys. I guess they're there to develop their punching back.

(Ranma notices to his immediate left, a gym area with exercise equpiment.
There were guys there working out, grunting and lifting heavy weights and
doing exercises. He notices a rack where plates are located that would be
mounted on the barbells of barbells.)

Ranma: Doesn't even equate to an eighth of the weight of the anchor or
even a fraction of a freighter container.

(Ranma looks to back left where he notices an open area where people were
shadow boxing, jump rope, push-ups, sit-ups, and other miscellaneous
exercises that require open areas. Along the walls were five speed bags,
five people using each individual one.)

Ranma: Must be for speed and stamina training.

(In the center of the gym area was a boxing ring where two people, clad
in head gear were sparring one another.)

Ranma: Ah, there's sparring. Cool.

(Toward the left of the large room were two separate doors, one to a
womens lockerroom and the other to a mens lockerroom. Toward the right
was a door leading to what is probably an office.)

Ranma: There's no women in here. What's the use of having a womens
restroom?

(One of the gym patrons notice Ranma and don't recgonize him. He stops
punching the punching bag and approaches Ranma.)

Man: Hello.

Ranma: Hi.

Man: You new here?

Ranma: Yeah. 

Man: What's your name?

Ranma: Ranma. Ranma Saotome.

Man: I'm Kurusawa.

(Ranma regards the man. He's taller than Ranma and probably outweighed
him by twenty pounds. He looks very lean and muscular under those heavy
sweatshirt and sweatpants he was wearing.)

Kurusawa: You need any help?

Ranma: Yeah, I'd just like to ask some questions.

Kurusawa: Ah, just head on back to the office. Just talk to Coach.

Ranma: Coach? Um, okay.

(Kurusawa resumes his training while Ranma walks on to the back of the
gym and knocks on the door.)

Voice: C'min.

(Ranma enters. Inside is a tiny looking office with a huge shelf full of
tapes lining along one wall. There is a old balding man with white hair
sitting behind the desk with his back toward Ranma, watching a video tape
on the television.)

Ranma: Hello.

(The man named Coach swivels around in his chair. He is a bit surprised
to see Ranma, not recognizing him. He figured it was one of the gym
patrons. He narrows his eyes on Ranma, regarding him with a critical eye.
After a minute, his expression calms.)

Coach: What can I do for you, kid?

Ranma: I have a few questions. Perhaps you can help me.

Coach: What's your name, kid?

Ranma: Oh, I'm Ranma. Ranma Saotome.

Coach: Nice t'meetcha. I'm Katsukawa but just call me Coach. Ask away.

Ranma: (Producing poster)How do I becoming the boxing champion?

Coach: .....................

Ranma: (Placing poster on desk)I want to beat this guy and become the
number one boxer in the world.

Coach: .....................

Ranma: I want to become the most powerful boxer in the world.

(Coach bursts out in laughter. Ranma doesn't laugh.)

Coach: You wanna become the champion?! Get real!

Ranma: Why not!

Coach: First off, you look to be perhaps a hundred and sixty pounds, if
that, meaning you'd be a super lightweight or welterweight. You need to
be around two hundred pounds to compete in heavyweight class.

Ranma: There are class, huh?

Coach: A lightweight class can never fight a heavyweight class. 

Ranma: Okay, then I'll eat before I fight.

Coach: (Laughs)You wanna be a boxer....yet don't really seem understand
how boxing works.

Ranma: (Serious)I know how to box. 

Coach: Fine, humor me. Show me your strongest punch.(Thinking)I might as
well see the kid's potential. He's got a good build and can probably be a
very powerful super lightweight...and probably an extremely powerful
lightweight if he drops some extra pounds.

Ranma: Here? What do you want me to punch?

Coach: No. The punching bag.

Ranma: Um, okay.

(Ranma and Coach head out of the officer. They walk up to a now free
punching bag, the one closest to the door and farthest on the right.
Coach gesturest twoard it. The four guys, spotting the new guy with
Coach, stop punching their respective punching bags to observe.)

Coach: Punch it.

Ranma: You want me to punch it?

Coach: (Annoyed)That's what I said.

Ranma: What kinda punch?

Coach: Hm. Right hook punch.(Calls to someone)Someone get him some boxing
gloves!

(A random gym patron walks up to Ranma and hands him boxing gloves. He
puts it on. It feels snug against his hands.)

Ranma: Are you sure you want me to? 

Coach: Yeah.

Ranma: (Shrugs)Okay.

(Ranma stands in front of the punching bag, taking deep breaths. After a
minutes, he steps forward, stamping down hard with his left foot. He
pivots his waist, bringing his right glove forward and around in a wicked
right hook as commanded. The glove hits the bag, hitting it with such
force that the chain supporting it snapped. The bag flew toward the left,
hitting the bag to the immediate left, causing the chain supporting it to
snap, both bags now flying toward the left. This continues on until all
five bags ended up having their chains snapped and flying across the
length of the gym where it crashed in to the offices door, causing it to
blow backwards where the bags slammed against the office wall before
coming to a flying halt and falling to the floord.)

Coach: (Shocked).....................

Ranma: Um, sorry about that. I guess I should have warned you that I've
got a strong punch.

(Everyone in the entire gym had stopped what they were doing to stare at
Ranma, eyes wide, jaws agaped.)

Ranma: So, you think I can becoming number one? 

(Time passes. We see Ranma carrying with him a small folder full of
information from the boxing gym.)

Ranma: (Looks at watch)Almost eight-thirty. I better hurry to Shori's
place.

(Ranma arrives at Shori's place at eight-thirty exactly. He hops over the
front gate and makes is way to the front door where he is surprisingly
greeted by Akemi and Reia as they emerge from the house. He also notices
that there's a limo parked in front.)

Ranma: (Thinking)That's probably the limo that'll take us to the
restaurant.

Akemi: Jeez, you should've show up earlier.

Ranma: Huh? But I'm right on time, eight-thirty.

Akemi: Shori had been eagerly awaiting you since fifteen after. It's not
good to keep a girl waiting.

Ranma: But-

Akemi: (Noticing)Where's your outfit? How come you're not wearing it?

Ranma: ...................

Reia: Yeah, where is it? Where's your bag that has it?

Ranma: God, I forgot it...I accidentally left it at the Hayabusa mansion.

Akemi: Hayabusa mansion?

Ranma: Kawa's estate. The guy that Kisen had come to Japan here to see.

Akemi: Oh.

Reia: What are we going to do?

Akemi: (Smirks)I don't think we can do anything. It's Ranma's own fault.

Ranma: I'll go pick it up.

Akemi: Didn't you say it was fifty miles away?

Ranma: Yeah. It'll take me about fifteen minutes each way.

Akemi: .....................

Reia: .....................

Ranma: Why're you still surpised? Don't you remember I made it to
Joketsuzoku in just a few hours, while carrying someone on my back, and
that's four hundred miles away.

Akemi: It's still surpising.

Reia: (Gestures to folder)What's that in your hand?

Ranma: A folder.

Reia: I know that. What's it for?

Ranma: Just some boxing information. 

Reia: Why would you have that?

Ranma: I stopped by a boxing gym before getting here and found some
information out. I'm interested in doing boxing.

Akemi: Really?

Reia: What brought that up?

Ranma: (Smiles)I have my reasons. Anyway, it doesn't really matter
because I don't even know how Shori'll react.

Akemi: What does she have to do with this?

Ranma: I'd like to ask her if she's okay with me doing this.

Akemi: Oh, I get it, you want to do it to get money so you can support
Shori and buy her good stuff.

Ranma: Um, I guess. That's a good point.

Reia: I don't think she'd approve.

Ranma: Doesn't hurt to ask.

Akemi: That's pretty cool, that you're coming to her to ask what she
thinks before undertaking something like that.

Reia: I agree.

Ranma: (Smiles)I try.

Akemi: That's besides the point, what should we do about your not having
an outfit. We convinced Shori to pick up a Cheongsam, a chinese dress.
However, she'll seem seriously overdressed when standing next to you.

Ranma: Well, I'll head back back and get the outfit.

Akemi: But you won't be back in time to get to the restaurant. Shori's
dad mentioned to us that you two were going to go to Pour Deux at nine.

Ranma: ......................

Reia: Well, I guess you're going to have to wing it.

Ranma: I guess so.

(Ranma enter Shori's house. He only had to wait a minute in the living
room before he was approached by Mr. Hyusa. He had wanted to be there to
see to reaction on Ranma's face when he saw how beautiful his little
daughter looked.)

Mr. Hyusa: Um, you're not going to wear that, are you?

Ranma: Um...........I dunno.

Mr. Hyusa: Didn't you have an outfit. After they got back from shopping
with my daughter, Akemi and Reia mentioned about how they had helped you
pick out an outfit as well.

Ranma: I accidentally left it at the Hayabusa mansion, the place where I
had called you from.

Mr. Hyusa: Pretty absent-minded today aren't we?

Ranma: I guess.

Mr. Hyusa: (Smiles)I was much like that when I proposed.

Ranma: you were?

Mr. Hyusa: It was kind of bad for me too, except I accidentaly forgot the
ring.

Ranma: .................

Mr. Hyusa: But that's what happened to me back then. Anyway, let me help
you out and find a good outfit to match you. Follow me.(Heads off)

Ranma: (Follows)Um, I'm really sorry to be bothering you once again. I
keep asking for help and I feel like I'm always bothering you.

Mr. Hyusa: Don't worry about it.

Ranma: I betcha I've been the person who asked you the most times for
help so far, right?

Mr. Hyusa: Once again, don't worry about it.

(Ranma follow Mr. Hyusa in to his home office. There's a dresser located
in the back corner of the room where they walk up to to inspect for a
good outfit.)

Mr. Hyusa: What kind of outfit did you leave behind?

Ranma: Basically, a formal Chinese tuxedo.

Mr. Hyusa: Ooh, that's a nice look. I know exactly what you're looking
for.

(Mr. Hyusa pulls out a black outfit very much similar what Ranma had
picked up. He holds it in frong of Ranma.)

Mr. Hyusa: (Inspecting)Yes, this is the perfect size for you.

Ranma: (Taking outfit)Um.....t-thank you.(Looks at outfit)Wow, this
outfit looks really nice, much better than the one I was going to wear.
Are you sure you don't mind?

Mr. Hyusa: Not at all. A special outfit for a special occasion.

Ranma: I can't believe you don't have problems with my asking for you
daughter's hand in marriage.

Mr. Hyusa: Actually, I do.

Ranma: ...................

Mr. Hyusa: However, it only has to do the fact that you two are still so
young.

Ranma: If she accepts, we're going to-

Mr. Hyusa: Wait? Yes, I know. Perhaps until after college.

Ranma: C-college?

Mr. Hyusa: (Smiles)Yes. (Sounding more like a command that question)You
will be going to college, right? 

Ranma: ...................

Mr. Hyusa: We will discuss that another time. Right now, you should
quickly put on the outfit. Shori will be down at any moment.

Ranma: Okay.

(Ranma quickly changes out of his outfit and in to the one Mr. Hyusa had
given him. Mr. Hyusa smiles in satisfaction as he notices how perfectly
Ranma looks in that outfit.)

Ranma: It's perfect.

Mr. Hyusa: Yes.

Akemi's Voice: Hey, Ranma, where are you? Shori's done.

(Ranma and Mr. Hyusa head out the office and to the living room where
Ranma's jaw drop at the sight of Shori clad in a beautiful black chinese
dress. She is blushing, feeling a bit over dressed. However, she she
notices Ranma's outfit, she becomes a bit more comfortable. She isn't the
only overdressed.)

Shori: (To Akemi)I thought Ranma forgot his outfit.

Akemi: Um, I guess-

Mr. Hyusa: I helped out.

Akemi: Ah.

Ranma: Wow, you look beautiful in that outfit.

Shori: (Blushing)Thank you. You look very handsome in that outfit, Ranma.

Ranma: Thanks.

Mr. Hyusa: Here, lettme go get my camera so I can take a picture.(Leaves)

Akemi: Hurry up or they're going to be late for dinner.

Mr. Hyusa: All right.(Rushes off)

(Mr. Hyusa comes back, carrying a camera. He takes several pictures.)

Akemi: All right, that's enough pictures. Let them go now.

Mr. Hyusa: Okay. Okay.

(Ranma and Shori say their goodbyes and proceed to leave.)

Shori: Ranma, where are we going for dinner?

Ranma: (Thinking)Ah, everyone here but Shori knows. I guess they all want
it to be a surpise.(Begins to talk)Don't worry. It'll be a surprise.

Shori: Most likely since we're so dressed up.

Ranma: We've been there before.

Shori: Been there before? Oh, you mean Pour Deux?

Ranma: .............um, I guess there goes that surprise. I figured you
would have forgotten.

Shori: Why would I forget? That's where we had our first date. It was on
a Friday as well and it was raining that day.

Ranma: Wow, you remember all that?

Shori: (Smiles)Yes, how could I forget?

Ranma: ..........(Thinking)Cause I kinda forgot.

Akemi: Ranma, Shori, you two should get going now.(Thinking)Before you
accidentally let it slip the real meaning behind this date.

Ranma: (Looks at watch)Yeah, you're right. We better go.

Shori: You're right.

(Ranma and Shori head out of the house, heading for the limo.)

Mr. Hyusa: Ranma.

Ranma: (Looking back)Yeah?

(Mr. Hyusa approaches him, making sure what he was doing was out of
Shori's view as she got in to the limo.)

Mr. Hyusa: (Reaching in to pocket)Your ring.

Ranma: Oh yeah. It was in the pants pocket of my other outfit.

Mr. Hyusa: (Smirks)I know.(Hands over tiny box)

Ranma: Thanks.

Mr. Hyusa: You kids have fun.

Ranma: Thanks.

(Ranma get in to the limo. He and she are driven to Pour Deux, arriving
at the restaurant at approximately nine. Ranma quickly heads out of the
limo, running around the back to open the door for her on the other
side.)

Shori: Thank you.

Ranma: We're just on time.

Shori: Yes, we are. 

(They both enter, Ranma holding the door open for her.)

Woman: Welcome to Pour Deux.

Ranma: We have a reservations. 

Woman: Name please.

Ranma: (Scratching head)I really dunno. Ranma.

Woman: (Checks sheet)Um, I don't see your name here, sir.

Ranma: Saotome?

Women: That neither.

Ranma: Oh, he must've forgot to use my name. (To woman)Hyusa.

Woman: Ah yes. Please follow me.

(Ranma and Shori follow the woman to corner booth. A young busboy places
a basket of bread on the table.)

Ranma: (Eating bread)Hey, this is the same table we sat at last time.

Shori: You're right. 

Ranma: I wonder if we're gonna get the same waiter, I mean maitre 'd.

Shori: I remember him. He was so obnoxious. I can't believe I didn't even
notice it until after you pointed it out.

Ranma: Don't worry about it. I guess I don't blame him.

Shori: W-why do you say so?

Ranma: I dunno exactly how to act in an environment like this.

Shori: That's because you're just not used to it. That's all.

Ranma: I doubt I'd ever be used to it. I'm not all that proper.

Shori: You're fine.

Ranma: Dunno how you deal with it. It's so different, the society you
live in and the society I'm used to.

Shori: You're just unused to it. 

Ranma: (Shrugs)I guess.(Looks at watch)Where the heck's the maitre 'd? I
wanna order.

Shori: Don't, our maitre 'd will be here soon enough.

(Ranma and Shori indulge in conversation before. Before they know it,
their maitre 'd approaches the table. He is young man and has this smug
look on his 
face. Ranma and the young man automatically reconize each other.)

Maitre 'd: You again!!

Ranma: (Smirks)I was just about to say the same thing.



<all ive got so far>






-OneShot
Jeffrey "OneShot" Wong
http://www.anime.sobhrach.com/~jeffwong/index.html



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