Ranma 1/2 Fan Fiction ❯ Dark Family ❯ 1 ( Prologue )

[ P - Pre-Teen ]

Imported From: RAAC
From: Bryan Stone <bnstone@ix.netcom.com>
Subject: [Ranma][Fanfic] Dark Family

Ranma 1/2

DARK FAMILY

Part One:

"And All the Children Will Believe"

Chapter One

Tokyo, Japan
The Nomura Trade Building
Shinjuku City District, 0945PM

In the darkness of an executive board room, a group of executives sat
staring up at a wide screen display, listening to the new report being
broadcast across the local network station. It was not very good news, in
fact it was the cause of their late night meeting. Their eyes remained locked
upon the pictures being displayed like hungry wolves longing for a kill
several fist balled in pent-up frustration.
<The Prime Minister has conveyed the word to the Diet, expressing the will
to allow open free trade between Japan and the Western Countries without undue
tariffs. In return, all export restriction between America and Japan will be
lifted, the first step in a unified economic society. This historic event
will be presided over by the Emperor himself one week from now. His signature
will usher in a new era of trade and development that will benefit the
homeland and the world.>
Abruptly the screen flickered off, a dim light slowly illuminating the
room.
The seated figures remained silent for a moment while they contemplated there
futures.
"Well . . . . It seems that the Prime Minister is threatening our
positions," said the Chairman breaking the silence. "It seems that the
Emperor is threatening our positions."
An Arab, representing the Middle Eastern conglomerates, strummed his
fingers
rapidly on the table top. "We cannot allow this to happen. It is bad enough
that our pitiful governments are trying to unite, but this! This will destroy
everything we have built."
"I have to agree," said an Englishman seated across from him. "Once
American and Japanese trade barriers are removed, it will be only a matter or
time before the rest of the world falls in line."
"The result, a total shift of the economic power we already enjoy." a
woman
from the African associations pointed out.
Several murmurs followed, worried comments passing up and down the table.
The darkened figure at the head of the table raised his hands to calm them.
"People, please let us not digress into a mob of panicking investors," he
said.
"How can you say that, sir?" replied an American businessman seated at the
other end. "I and mah constituents both in America and the Canadian sectors
are quite upset about this whole thing."
"Nor are my interest partners on the Chinese mainland keen to this
ungainly
merger," said another.
The woman spoke again. "Mister Chairman, if you have not noticed, we are
basically under attack."
"And we must do something about it!" added the American, slamming a fist
down on the table.
All heads turned towards the Chairman, awaiting his decision. He sat back
placing his palms together contemplating their words. "So what are you
suggesting?"
The Indian representative seated next to him inched forward slightly. "I
believe we are suggesting a direct approach. Something that will put us in
more favorable positions."
"You mean assassination?"
"Why the hell not? It would be the perfect solution to this mess these
fools have created."
The Chairman laughed lightly. "It may be okay to kill a president in your
society, but we here are not as keen on such actions you are suggesting."
"But, as I dare say, in regards to our present situation it might be the
best choice," said the Englishman.
The Chairman paused again. Suddenly he reached over to an intercom on his
left, pressing one of the buttons. "Send Mister Marcus in please," he said.
He could feel the questioning gazes from around the table.
"I have not been totally ignorant of the idea, my friends," he explained.
"I believe I have a better solution to this predicament."
A light knock came from the doors, then in was ushered a tall man who
stopped purposely in the light just short of the conference table for all to
see. He stood arms clasped behind him dressed in a dark suit and long black
trenchcoat, his narrow chin held proudly up while gazing around. Long locks
of silver-white hair cascaded down his shoulders defying any immediate
estimate to his age. Penetrating gray eyes stopped on each member of the
table entertaining their curiosity.
"Ladies and Gentlemen. May I introduce Mister Renon Marcus, a long time
associate and troubleshooter."
Marcus smiled nodding slightly to them.
"Ha! Tell me you don't deal in assassinations, Mr. Chairman," the
American
said.
"We deal in this only when necessary. Marcus here is was not called in to
kill anyone."
"Then what good is he?" asked the Arab.
The Chairman let a smile come to his lips. "Mister Marcus has dealt with
problems like this in the past. I've relied upon him to convince unwilling
persons to see the folly of their ways. He has not failed me yet."
"This is big job though," said the woman. "We're talking about a national
government. How does 'Mister Marcus' plan to get close enough to the Prime
Minister, or for that matter the Emperor?"
Marcus surprised them by laughing at the question.
"I do not see anything humorous about this," said the Indian. "It is
likely
that security will be very tight."
Marcus merely waved off the notion. "I will have no trouble convincing
the
good Prime Minister to disregard this silly notion," he said. "In fact, I
will ensure we have his complete and utter support in any future endeavors we
desire."
"And how, may I ask, do you plan to do this?" asked the Englishman.
Marcus paused, casting a thoughtful gaze briefly up towards the ceiling.
"I cannot answer that question," he finally replied. "My methods are discrete
and I would like to keep them a secret."
"I assure you, Ladies and Gentlemen, Mister Marcus will succeed," added
the
Chairman.
"But what if he doesn't," continued the American. "There's only a week
before the final documents are signed." He turned giving Marcus a hard stare.
"Have you a plan to eliminate the Prime Minister if he can't be brought under
our control?"
Marcus raised a brow. "I have all the confidence that the Prime Minister
will concede to your request, sir. However; I have shall I say, conducted
necessary elimination before. The Prime Minister will be brought under your
control. My Family will see to this."
"Family?" questioned the woman.
Marcus laughed again. "Merely a group of operatives I will form to carry
out the task that is required."
The members of the board turned to deliberate on the situation. After a
few
minutes they decided.
"It seems this is our best option," commented the Indian. They all agreed
with him.
"Then I take it, we are all for Mister Marcus to conduct his mission?"
said
the Chairman.
Several heads nodded.
"Good. Marcus, is one week going to be enough time for you to form this
'Family' and do what is needed?"
"More than enough time, sir," Marcus replied.
"Very well. You have your instructions, carry them out."
Marcus turned heading for the doors.
"Oh, and Marcus," called the Chairman stopping him. He looked back. "You
know the consequences for failure."
"Of course, sir. Have I ever failed?"
Marcus let out a light chuckle and departed the room . . .

* * * * *

Standing outside of the Nomura building, Marcus cast a calm eye skywards.
Gray clouds drifted overhead, a strong sign of the rains that would follow
very shortly. Fitting, he though producing a dark pouch from his coat. He
opened it, pulling out a short slim green root, placing it in the corner of
his mouth. Careful to nibble only a fraction of the end off, Marcus felt a
cool rush flow through his body, letting out a light sigh of relief.
Long overdue, Marcus thought. Now I must begin my work. First to form a
family. The search would be easy this time. Marcus already had a list of
people in mind from the vast database at his disposal. He pulled a folded
piece of paper from another pocket, reading the names. Some of them already
carried respectful reputations behind them, perfect for his needs.
A drop splashed on the paper, Marcus glancing up once more. The rain was
coming and he had so much to do, with very little time to do it in. He
flagged down a cab quickly climbing in.
"Where to, sir?" asked the cab driver.
"Nerima," answered Marcus.


Chapter Two

Rain fell with a steady rhythm on the roof of the Tendo Dojo, the
afternoon
atmosphere peaceful around its grounds. Soun Tendo felt anything but relaxed
though, standing at the threshold of the patio door looking out across the
front courtyard. Something was not right with this day, he thought stroking
his thick black mustache nervously. An odd feeling, one that usually bode
mayhem around the dojo.
But Ranma and Akane were both out today!
That could have been it. Ranma and Akane in the rain no less. Not much
of a problem for his youngest daughter, but for Ranma, well he was sure they'd
figure a way to keep dry. A sharp crack of thunder cut the air, Soun looking
up. This storm looked to be getting worse. Another thought came to him.
Kasumi was out as well shopping for the evening meal. Maybe I should go in
search of them.
"Soun," a voice called to him from behind. He turned to face Genma
Saotome,
his longtime friend and companion of so many years. In contrast to Soun's
thin frame, Genma was a hulking man, built like a bear. He sat before a Shogi
board impatiently waiting for his opponent to return.
"Soun, close the door and let's continue," he said.
Tendo gave the courtyard one last glance then closed the door. He
returned
to the board, sitting down on the floor and resumed the game, pushing a piece
forward. Genma studied his situation, then Soun spoke.
"Genma. Do you not worry about your son?" he asked him.
"Ranma? Not in the least bit. Ranma can take care of himself and Akane
quite capably."
Genma moved and Soun frowned scratching his head. "This day does not seem
right, Saotome. There is an presence in the air, as if something was about to
happen."
"Nonsense. It could be that we for once don't have to follow up after our
two children, repairing the damage they have caused."
That made Soun laugh. He reached out, pushing another piece forwards.
Genma quickly countered, capturing a pawn from the center ranks. Giving Genma
a narrow look, Soun shifted a silver piece up to deflect the attack.
"No. As true as your statement is, I think there is something more," he
replied.
Genma grunted, concentrating on his next play. "Well if it is Kasumi you
are worried about, you could have Nabiki go out and find her," he said
shifting his King right.
Soun brought his Bishop out, capturing a pawn and threatening a knight.
"What so I can worry about all of my daughters? I'd have gray hairs before
the hour was done."
"Will you settle down," Genma scolded him. "There is nothing to fear.
The
rain is a fitting atmosphere for our two reluctant children to get closer.
Have you not noticed the way Ranma has changed towards Akane these past few
weeks?"
Soun thought about it for a moment. It was true, Ranma seemed to soften
towards Akane, actually doing things like helping her with the chores,
something that he'd normally avoided with a passion. Then again, Akane too
was also changing. Still not as tolerant towards Ranma's ways, she still
couldn't get him to eat any of her cooking, nevertheless the girl was
beginning to warm up. Could it be that was what bothered him. The though of
losing his little girl?
"And if you are worrying about Kasumi, there is no one in this
neighborhood
who'd dare harm her," continued Genma.
"I guess you're right, my friend." Soun let out a relieved sigh. "I'm
worrying over nothing."
"So get your mind back on this game and let nature take it's course. I'm
about to break down your defenses!"
Another sharp crack echoed through the sky, both men gazing up.
"Hmm. . . I do believe it is your turn, Saotome," Soun said.
Genma gave the ceiling one last glance then continued on with their game.

* * * * *

Ranma Saotome cried out into the overcast sky, venting his frustrations
while trying desperately to keep from getting wet. He stood virtually on the
tips of his toes, pressed flat in the threshold of a doorway; Akane Tendo
standing just out of range. She was enjoying herself, grinning broadly while
teasing him with light flicks of drops from her umbrella. Another twitch
splashed close to his heels, Ranma pressing further back.
"Akane, knock it off!" cried Ranma.
Akane let out a giggle. "Oh no, Ranma," she replied playfully twirling
the
umbrella slowly around. "This is one of the only few times that I can get you
at any disadvantage. I'm going to cherish this moment for as long as I can."
She flicked a few more drops at him, bracketing him at either shoulder.
Ranma arched out a bit barely dodging the running water.
"Akane!" he cried again.
"Oh, ho, ho! The great Ranma Saotome, helpless against a weak, uncute
tomboy like me?"
"This isn't fair, Akane. What have I done to deserve this?"
"Plenty, but now that should be the least of your concerns."
Huh? wondered Ranma, then it dawned on him what was developing. A trap,
that innocent look in her eye said as much. Akane must have planned it all
along. Lunch seemed fishy to him, but he let his mind wander allowing her the
upper hand. What a fool I've been! Now she has that hurt my wallet look on
her face.
"What, Akane? What!" he said.
Akane let him stew for a moment, walking a few steps away. "Well. . .
since
I have you here. . . there is something I'd like you to do for me," she
answered giving him a sly look out the corner of her eye.
"I'm afraid to ask, but tell me anyway."
"I want you to take me out on a date."
Ranma started sharply. He shook his head, thinking that he'd heard her
wrong.
"Don't give me that look!" shouted Akane.
"So what do you call this afternoon?"
Akane stomped an angry foot down, barely missing Ranma with the splash.
"That was not a date, Ranma Saotome!" she replied. "I want a real date.
Dinner, a movie, a nice quiet evening walk."
"But it's raining, Akane!"
"Hush!" she snapped.
Ranma ceased his objections staring at her. He thought about it, thinking
what she was proposing wouldn't be to bad of a thing really. Money might be a
problem, but he was sure that Loan-Shark Nabiki would front him for some steep
price.
"Okay, okay, I'll take you out on a dinner date," he said giving in.
Akane was thrilled. "Promise!" she said moving up close.
"Yes, I promise. Now give me the umbrella!"
She shook her head. "No way, Ranma Saotome. I want definite proof that
you're sincere."
Ranma swallowed hard. "H-h-how?" he stammered.
"Kiss me."
"W-w-what!"
"You heard right. Kiss me!"
"Akane!" exclaimed Ranma, but she wasn't listening. She stood before him
with eyes closed, head tilted up expectantly. Ranma could only shake
nervously as time suddenly slowed around them. He contemplated side-stepping
out into the rain and change into his girl self, Akane would certainly catch
him before he could get by.
"I'm waiting," she said calmly.
Okay, this is it Ranma Saotome, he thought. It's just a kiss. Yeah, it
is just a kiss!
Akane felt Ranma lean up under the umbrella and smiled readying herself.
It was long time in coming, but she wanted this to be special, something only
she and Ranma could share. He drew closer, but in a flash pecked her lightly
on the forehead, snatched the umbrella out of her hand and dashed off down the
street.
"Ranma!" cried Akane spinning around.
"Come'on, Akane!" Ranma shouted over his shoulder. "If we're going to do
this we'd better get back to the dojo and change."
Akane was livid. She curled her fist, gritting her teeth trying to hold
back the fury inside. "Ranma Saotome, when I get my hands on you, I'm going
to. . . .OOOOO!"
Breaking into a run, Akane chased him down the street.

* * * * *

Kasumi Tendo hustled through the entrance of her favorite spice shop; the
Ocha Kotto, pausing to shake the water from her umbrella before closing it up.
Mr. Gojinkawa's cheerful face lit up from behind his counter.
"Ah, Kasumi. Come in, come in!" he said moving around to greet her.
Kasumi smiled, pulling off the scarf on her head, allowing her long brown
hair to fall about her shoulders. "What weather we're having," she said.
Everyone in Nerima knew and loved Kasumi dearly. Her innocent features
captured anyone's hearts without exception. Many of the men around would die
for the chance of making Kasumi Tendo his bride, but the woman's steadfast
dedication to her family's well being prevented any from gaining ground in
that area. The fact that she and Doctor Tofu were unofficially an item helped
to keep others at arms length.
Setting her basket of groceries on the floor, Kasumi turned looking over
the
shelves and open racks of herbs and spices.
"Oh, Mister Gojinkawa," she began. "I'm making yakitori tonight and I
want
something special for the sauce. Can you help me?"
"Me, Kasumi," replied Gojinkawa surprised that the renowned cook of the
Tendo family would need his advice on food. He rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
"Well what are you looking for in particular?"
"Something different. Maybe an exotic flavor, sharp but not too spicy."
"Hmm. . . sharp but not spicy, eh? I just received some fresh Karashi,
will
that do?"
Kasumi thought a moment then shook her head. "It might be too hot for
some
of the others," she said. Turning, Kasumi started browsing down the nearest
aisle. "Do you have anything milder?"
"I have some pepper root. It has a slightly sweet flavor, but still
retains
it's sharp taste even after cooking."
"Maybe. How about some ginger root. Do you have any of that?"
"Ah, a good choice. We have--."
The bell on the entrance door sounded, Gojinkawa turning around.
"Excuse me, Kasumi. I have another customer. Please look around while I
attend to them."
Kasumi smiled and continued on down the aisle. She stopped at several
bins,
examining several of the herbs and spices, checking for freshness and flavor.
After a while, she sighed.
"Oh Doctor Tofu. Why did you have to be out of town when I need you," she
said. Normally Kasumi would get Tofu to come with her and help select the
ingredients for an evening meal. It was a good excuse to get the man out of
his office and spend time with him. Naturally he'd come back to the dojo, it
only made Kasumi all the more happier to see him feasting on her meals.
Unconsciously, Kasumi clasped her hands to her chest, a warm feeling flowing
through her at the thought of the good doctor. Some day, some day--.
A light shuffle brought Kasumi from her fantasy. A tall man stood behind
her. Obviously he'd noticed her melancholy look.
She blushed, quickly turning away. "I'm sorry."
"For what?" asked the stranger.
"Uhm. . . . for being in your way."
He laughed. "You're not in my way. Frankly I was concerned. When
somebody
mentions needing a doctor, I naturally though that something was wrong."
Kasumi gasped lightly, turning around. She stared at him then started
giggling, more embarrassed then ever. "No, no. There's nothing wrong with
me. I was just thinking about someone."
The stranger arched a brow. "I assume a young gentleman. He's very
lucky,
but tell me what are you looking for?"
"What?"
"I noticed also that you seemed to be distraught with the fine selection
of herbs and spices. Are you planning some kind of banquet?"
Again Kasumi laughed. "No, I'm just trying to find a different kind of
seasoning to try on tonight's dinner. I think my family is starting to get
used to the usual meals I prepare."
The expression on the man's face brightened. "Then maybe I can help
you."

"Really!" exclaimed Kasumi.
"First let me introduce myself properly." He reached into his coat
pulling
out a card handing it to her.
She read it. "Doctor Renon Marcus, Herbalist?"
Marcus smiled. "Yes. You see I represent a company from mainland China
looking to open markets here in Tokyo. My original plan was to solicit local
merchants to sell a very special root not normally seen in Asian dishes."
Kasumi was interested, eyes bright as Marcus continued.
"However, it seems that finding anyone to cooperate has proven futile."
"Why?"
"Well, my root is not very well known. Merchants tend to shy away from
something, they say is risky."
"That's not very fair," Kasumi said innocently. "I'm sure Mister
Gojinkawa
would be--."
"I'm afraid he's already turned me down," answered Marcus.
"Oh, that's too bad."
"Not really. Uhm, you seem to be a very knowledgeable cook, and I must
say
a very pretty one too."
Kasumi blushed placing a hand to her cheek.
"Miss. . . . I did not get your name."
"Kasumi Tendo."
"Ah, Kasumi Tendo," Marcus let the name roll from his lips as if savoring
its taste. "Kasumi, will you help me?"
"How can I help you, Mister Marcus?"
Gently, Marcus took Kasumi's hands in his. "Would you please sample my
Ginsukou root?"
Kasumi stuttered, not ready for the offer Marcus proposed. She did want a
new flavor for her family to try, but wasn't sure that what Marcus offered
would be right.
"Mister Marcus, I--."
"Please, Renon."
"Renon, I'm not sure your root is what I'm looking for. I haven't tasted
it."
Sadness covered Marcus's face and he let her hands go. "Oh, I am doomed
to failure. Disgraced on my first big assignment," he said turning away.
Kasumi quickly caught up with him. "I didn't say I wouldn't, Renon," she
said. "I'd like to try it first before serving it to my family and friends."
Marcus spun around, feigning an expression of cheer. "Kasumi, you are a
lifesaver! You'd do this for me?"
For a second Kasumi hesitated, then with a cheery smile nodded her head.
Marcus clasped his hands together in excitement.
"Excellent! Now we must find a place to prepare the sap."
"We can go to my home. It's just up the street."
Kasumi led him back to the front to retrieve her groceries. She looked
around, curious that Mister Gojinkawa was not at his usual spot behind the
counter. Probably busy in back. She pulled out her scarf, tying it around
her head.
"Allow me, please," Marcus said taking the bags of groceries from her.
She thanked him, and stepped out to open the umbrella. Marcus paused
briefly to peer over the counter at the sleeping man lying on the floor. He
wouldn't remember a thing, thought Marcus, and by the time he woke up it would
be to late anyway.
Kasumi called to him and together they walked up the street towards the
dojo.


Chapter Three

It did not take long for them to arrive, Kasumi introducing Marcus to Soun
and Genma. While the men talked, she quickly put away the groceries, then
prepared a simmering pot of water on the stove just as Marcus requested. When
it was ready, she called them into the kitchen.
Marcus opened the pot placing a thermometer into the water. Satisfied
that
it was right, he retrieved his coat pulling a black bag from one of the inner
pockets. Curiously, the three watched as he carefully opened it. From the
bag, Marcus pulled out a yellowish-brown root, short and thick with several
stray stalks draping down along the outside. It reminded Kasumi of a carrot
that had been pickled, only there were unique dark lines running down its
length.
"Don't let it's looks turn you away," Marcus said.
"This is supposed to add spice to a meal?" questioned Soun.
"Not the root itself," he replied. "The sap."
Marcus pointed to the dark lines.
Genma let out a curious hum. "I've never heard of this Ginsukou root,
Mister Marcus, and I'm from China," he said.
"Not many have. The root derives from way up in the northern provinces
bordering Shaanxi and Henan."
"Harsh area. This must be a hardy plant to survive in such a place."
Marcus nodded placing the root in a bowl on the counter. Kasumi handed
him
a knife watching closely.
"There's a certain way you must prepare the root, my dear Kasumi," he
explained. Taking the knife, Marcus carefully placed the tip on one of the
dark lines. "You must cut down the length instead of across to prevent the
fibers from absorbing the sap, like so." He drew the knife down, and out of
the cut a thick dark sap oozed collecting at the bottom of the bowl.
Kasumi cringed slightly. "Oh, I don't know if I can do that, Renon," she
said. "It's much like cutting a vein from a living person."
"Not to mention this sap has the consistency of blood," added Soun.
"Now you can see why I have so much trouble marketing it," replied Marcus.
"Wait until you taste its unique flavor. All doubts will be cast aside
then."
"How long will it take to prepare this sap, Renon?" asked Kasumi.
"Around ten to fifteen minutes depending upon how well one cuts the root."
Kasumi gave the root a brief glance. "May I?" she said holding out her
hand. Marcus relinquished the root and knife stepping back. With skill only
Kasumi possessed, she began to open the remaining veins of sap. In less than
a minute she completed the task. Marcus was impressed.
"I've never seen anyone cut so fast, and so well," he said holding up the
now empty husk in awe. "Kasumi, you are wonderful."
Soun placed an arm around his daughters shoulders. "She takes after her
mother," he said proudly. "Now if only my other daughters would learn her
secrets."
"Oh, Father," Kasumi said.
Suddenly there was a crash from the living room, the thump of hurried feet
echoing through the home.
"Will you quit it, Akane!" Ranma's voice shouted.
"Hold still you two timing, good for nothing, pseudo-husband!" Akane cried.

More sounds of breaking objects followed; Genma letting out a sigh.
"Well it looks like our two squabbling's have returned, Soun," he said.
Soun could only shake his head. "We'd better get out there and break them
up before they destroy the place."
As the two men hurriedly rushed out, Marcus looked to Kasumi with a frown.
"Who--," he started to say.
"That's my youngest sister Akane, and her fiancée Ranma."
Marcus turned gazing back out towards the living room. He crossed his
arms
and rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "So, Ranma Saotome, eh."
"Renon," Kasumi said breaking his thought. "I don't think this will be
enough for an entire meal."
He glanced down at the bowl. "It will be more than enough, Kasumi. First
you must sample it's taste. I know! A small warm cup of tea. Would you like
that?"
"Tea. From this sap?"
"It has more than one use." He pulled one of the stools from under the
counter and bade her to sit down. "Relax and let me introduce you to a
delicacy your senses will never forget."
Quietly, Kasumi watched as Marcus poured the bowl of sap into the warm
water, stirring it around for several minutes. It simmered, then a pleasant
aroma began to fill the air. She inhaled, drawing in the smell.
"It smells much like cherry blossoms," she said drawing in another breath.
Marcus only smiled. After a few more minutes he asked her for a cup. Kasumi
went to the cupboard and retrieved one, handing it to him.
Marcus took the ladle and dipped it into the pot. He poured the dark
colored liquid into the cup and handed it back to her. Kasumi stared at it,
curious and yet slightly afraid. It looked much like regular oolong tea, but
there was a hint of red to its hue. She thought about her fathers comment of
blood before shaking it from her mind. The alluring aroma tickled her nose,
Kasumi feeling an odd sensation flow through her.
"Still holding doubts?" questioned Marcus.
"Oh no, no," she replied. Gently Kasumi brought the cup up taking a small
sip. Mildly sweet with a slight tangy flavor, her tongue savored the taste.
"Mmm, it is good," she said taking a larger swallow.
Marcus looked on, his smile developing into a sinister grin as she drank.
Kasumi drained the cup and set it down on the counter. She felt totally
aware, oddly giddy all in one rush.
"Renon, this is wonderful!" she said looking up at him.
"If you think that was something, just wait," he replied.
"I've never tasted anything like it. I can't see--."
Suddenly Kasumi drew in a sharp breath, looking forwards with eyes wide.
She clasped her hands together as if in pain trying to cry out, but managed
only a slow stammer before going silent. Marcus waited until she stopped
moving all together then waved a hand in front of her eyes. No response, he
leaned back crossing his arms.
"Yes, Kasumi my little dove. Welcome to my family."

* * * * *

Humming light to herself, Akane fixed the collar of her dress then
smoothed
the pleats that ran down the sides. It was pretty dark blue, not to short but
enough to turn a few heads and spark the curiosity of a certain male she knew.
Behind her on the floor sat Nabiki, middle sister of the Tendo clan, watching
with some interest how much time and effort Akane was putting into this.
How much we change, Nabiki thought. Akane actually trying to impress
Ranma
for a date. Oh little sister, how much I envy you. She really was kind of
jealous of the good fortune Akane had landing a man. Okay, Kasumi still
wasn't officially engaged with Doctor Tofu, and Kuno wasn't exactly coming to
terms with Ranma and Akane's relationship, still Nabiki longed to enjoy the
feelings lovers shared. Holding hands, sneaking kisses when no one was
around, fun stuff she only saw in the movies. Maybe it wasn't in the stars
for her after all.
Akane twirled before the mirror, coming to a stop facing her.
"So?" she asked.
"So what?" replied Nabiki.
"What do you think. Will Ranma be interested in me?"
"Sister, dear. You could wear a potato sack and go barefoot. Ranma might
heckle you, but he'd still be interested."
That shocked Akane. "Nabiki! How could you say such things?"
"Because it's the truth."
"Huh?"
Nabiki laughed. "I wish you two would stop this game you play, and just
admit you love each other."
"Nabiki!"
"Tell me I'm lying. Look at you, dressed to the eights trying to corral
you
future husband." Nabiki flopped back on the futon, pretending that there was
somebody on top of her. "Oh, Ranma, oh Ranma, please do that crazy thing you
do," she teased her sister.
"Stop it. You Stop it Nabiki!" Akane turned away her cheeks flushed and
warm.
Nabiki laughed harder. She leaned up on her side, staring at Akane for a
moment. Her chuckles waned, Nabiki placing a calm look back on her face.
"You've grown up, my little sister," she said. "I'm proud of you."
Slowly, Akane turned back around. "We really should stop playing
shouldn't
we?" she said hesitantly.
"Well now let's not jump the gun to fast. Always make a man work for what
he wants."
Akane had to agree with her. "Very true," she replied, then paused. "By
the way, isn't it 'dressed to the nines' vice the eights?"
"Not with those shoes your planning to wearing," answered Nabiki.
"What's wrong with my shoes?" Akane said looking down at her feet.
"They are flat. No heel, understand?"
Akane smirked. "I can't wear heels. That's like putting a hammer in
water
and expecting it to float."
"Well you'd better learn."
Nabiki stood up. "You have the hook in, now you've got to keep it there,"
she finished heading for the door.
"Nabiki--."
"I'll be back. I've got just the pair for you. While you're waiting, put
some lipstick on, okay?"
Akane let out a sigh. "Okay," she said.
Nabiki smiled leaving Akane alone. She never made more than a few steps
before a hand reached out from the hall closet, grabbing her by the arm.
Ranma placed a hand over Nabiki's mouth to keep her quiet.
"About time you came out of there," he whispered letting her go.
"Ah, lover boy. Was wondering when you'd come around," she replied.
Ranma
gazed sheepishly at the floor, nervously trying to find his voice. He'd
didn't have to, Nabiki already ahead of him.
"I see negotiations are in order," she said stepping back out into the
hallway. "Come, let us go to my office where we can talk . . . ."

* * * * *

"Do you understand your instructions, Kasumi?" Marcus said in a low
voice.
Kasumi sat unmoving on the stool, eyes still locked straight ahead staring
out into empty space. Slowly she nodded.
"I am to give Ranma the Ginsukou sap and bring him to you," she answered.
"Good, good." Marcus stepped back looking down at her. She was so
beautiful, even in this state. There was a strong chance that when the time
came, Kasumi Tendo would find herself a permanent part of his life. He pulled
a card from his coat pocket, scribbling something on the back.
"This is where you can find me, along with a phone number," he continued
handing it to her. Kasumi lifelessly took it from him, placing it in her
dress pocket. "Remember, we only have a few days. Work swiftly. I'll be in
touch with a list of the other people you will acquire for me."
"Yes, doctor."
Marcus smiled gathering his things. "I must go now. Continue as you
normally would."
Kasumi stood up, moving over to the stove and began preparing the evening
meal.
Satisfied, Marcus headed back to the living room. He found Genma and Soun
patching the door. Sound looked over.
"Leaving, Mister Marcus?" he asked.
"Yes, Mister Tendo. Kasumi is delighted with my Ginsukou root and will
make
you all a dish to sample it's exotic flavor."
Genma and Soun exchanged pleased looks, imagining the meal Kasumi was
preparing to serve.
"Why don't you stay and join us?" said Soun. "I'm sure there is more than
enough food. Kasumi makes the best dishes this side of Tokyo."
"Ah, no thank you, sir. I have other clientele to attend to. I will be
back though, trust me."
Genma lined up the door on the sliding track, tapping it into place with
the
hammer he was using. "Don't know what you are about to miss," he added to
Soun's comment.
Marcus let out a short chuckle. "Oh yes I do," he replied.
The two paused ready to ask what he meant by that when from down the hall,
Ranma's voice called out.
"Hey, Pop!" he said walking around the corner. "Where's my blue jacke--."
He stopped, staring at Marcus. A frown came to his face.
"Hey, Pop. Who's the old guy?" he finally said. A hammer dinged him
neatly
on the side of his head, Ranma staggering back.
"Ranma, mind your manners in my house!" shouted Soun. Ranma smirked,
rubbing the lump on his head.
"Sorry," he said.
Marcus eyed him. He looked him over slowly, nodding his head. You will
do,
he thought. Genma suddenly grabbed Ranma by the ear.
"Forgive him, Marcus," he said while tugging him around. "My son. Just
about ready to graduate, and still he's learned nothing."
"No offense taken, Genma," he replied. "I'm sure Ranma here meant no
harm."
Ranma swatted his fathers hand away, staring at the strange man heading
out
the door. Something bothered him, an unsettling feeling that throbbed at the
back of his mind. It might have been this lump. . . . no, no, there was
something about him. Something that his instincts were telling him to be wary
of.
"Hey, Pop. Who was that guy?"
"A friend of Kasumi's. He was helping her prepare dinner."
Hmm," sounded Ranma. Whatever it was, it would have to wait. Akane would
be coming down any moment now, and he still needed to find his jacket.
"Akane and I are going out for dinner tonight, Pop. You might want to
tell
Kasumi not to make anything for us."
All the anger Soun built up towards Ranma died at the news. "You mean
you--."
"Yes, I'm taking Akane out."
Both Soun and Genma cheered, giving each other a high five.
"Hey! Let's not be getting any funny ideas now," Ranma said angrily.
"This
wasn't my idea."
Soun hugged him tight. "Oh, Ranma. Son! You've made a poor old man
happy."
Ranma pushed him away. "Get off. You're wrinkling my shirt! Anyway this
is nothing more. . . . than. . . . a. . . ."
His comment trailed off as a sweet smell drifted in from the kitchen. He
drew in another breath.
"Hey, what is that that smells so good?" asked Ranma facing the kitchen.
"Kasumi fixing dinner," answered Soun.
Oh great! Kasumi picks this night to fix one of her knockout meals, and
I'm
stuck taking Akane out on a date, Ranma's mind complained. I wonder if I can
con her into staying here to eat, then going out?
"Ahem," a voice said from behind. Ranma froze, knowing full well who it
was. He turned to find Nabiki leaning casually next to the stairwell. She
narrowed an eye at him. "Don't even think about it, Ranma Saotome," she said
accusingly. "Remember our deal."
Ranma grimaced, remembering the clause Nabiki swore him to earlier. This
date had to be special. She wanted Akane to come back singing and dancing; a
perfect date with no interruptions. It was either that or three months of
Nabiki's house chores.
"I haven
"Good," she said holding up his jacket. "I do believe you better finish
getting dressed."
Glancing at his watch, Ranma started realizing that the time was getting
late. He took one last sniff of the wonderful aroma coming from the kitchen,
then glanced over at Nabiki. Taking his jacket, Ranma headed for his room.

* * * * *

Twenty minutes later he was standing in the living room, waiting
impatiently
for Akane to come down. He could hear Kasumi setting the dishes for the
evening meal in the dining room and wished somehow they could stay. There was
no chance in that. Even nature was against him, the rain from the afternoon
coming to a complete stop. Ranma went over to the stairs.
"Come on, Akane," he shouted up. "We're going to be late!"
"Don't rush me, Ranma!" Akane replied.
Ranma grit his teeth angrily, letting out a growl. He went back over to
the
front door once more to wait. Genma and Soun; still seated at the game table,
broke from their current match and turned to watch Ranma fume silently to
himself.
Genma chuckled, humored with his son's acute case of nerves.
"What's so funny?" Ranma asked.
"You remind me of me when I was courting your mother. All nerves I was.
So scared I--."
"I'm not courting anybody, Pop!"
Genma shrugged it off. "Suit yourself," he replied. Ranma let out
another
frustrated growl, hanging his head.
"Don't let it bother you, Ranma," Soun said. He beamed at him with a
smile
that reached from ear to ear. "I'm sure once you two start your date, things
will turn out all right."
"Things. What things?"
"Why you and Akane off course. First one date, then--."
"Stop!" Ranma cut him off. "Look, this is just a date, okay. Dinner,
movie, home by twelve."
"Sure, Ranma," Genma said.
"Anything you say," added Soun. "but you have my permission to stay out
longer if you need to."
"You guys haven't heard anything I've said!" Ranma's fist clenched tight
together. He shook with anger, spinning around towards the steps again.
"Damn. What's keeping her so long?"
"Relax, Ranma," Nabiki said walking down the steps. "Akane is just about
ready."
Nabiki's head turned towards the kitchen. "Mmm, what is Kasumi making
that
smells so good?"
"I don't know, but I get to miss it," replied Ranma in a huff.
"Well then I guess you won't mind if I eat your portion then."
Ranma rolled his eyes, putting up his hands in defeat.
Footsteps sounded from the stairs, all eyes turning to gaze at Akane as
she
finally made her way down. Ranma, as well as Soun and Genma were stunned.
With Nabiki's help, Akane had been converted from her usual tomboy looks into
one of ravishing beauty. The addition of a wide black belt helped to accent
Akane's slim figure, gold earrings sparkling bright in the light. Ranma's
attention was drawn to Akane's lips, accented by the light red lipstick she
wore. Beautiful, just beautiful and when did she get such predominant breast?
Akane reached the bottom holding her shoes in her hands, waiting for
somebody to say something. The shocked look on Ranma's face refused to go
away, Akane realizing that she'd be waiting till doomsday before he'd be able
to speak.
"And the verdict is?" she said.
"Akane, you look absolutely astounding," said Soun slowly getting to his
feet.
"She's really turned out for the better, don't you think, Ranma?" added
Genma. Ranma said nothing. Genma called his name but still got no response.
He got up and thumped his son hard on the top of his head. Ranma didn't even
flinch; Nabiki giggling at the reaction. Slowly Akane walked up to him.
"Ranma?" she said.
"Uh, uh, Akane?"
She smiled. "So how do you like it?"
Akane stepped back twirling around so he could get a complete look. With
his heart skipping a few beats, Ranma swallowed the lump in his throat. He
could not believe that this was the Akane he would be fighting with on a daily
basis.
"You, you look different, Akane," he said.
"Really? How different is different?"
"Well, a lot different. I mean I--."
Akane placed a finger to his lips, silencing him. "I understand," she
said.
Ranma let out a low gasp and swallowed hard; Nabiki breaking out in a laugh.
The sliding partition to the next room opened, Kasumi sticking her head in.

"Dinners ready," she announced cheerfully. When she got a look of Ranma and
Akane, her smile faded. "What, did I miss something?" she asked.
"No, no, Kasumi," Soun answered. "Ranma and Akane are going out on a
date."
Kasumi started sharply. "What!" she exclaimed. "They can't!"
Everyone exchanged confused looks.
"Uhm, why not, Kasumi?" asked Nabiki.
Kasumi pushed the partition open, exposing the grand meal she had prepared
for them. It was a virtual banquet. Colorful plates of sushi, rice and
tempura teased their eyes and brought a hungry growl from more than just one
stomach. Kasumi picked up one plate, walking towards Ranma.
"I didn't work on preparing all this for nothing," she said. "This one is
for you, Ranma."
Ranma stared hard at the plate of yakitori she held out to him barely able
to hold back his hunger. It looked delicious, chicken meat skewered on a
stick, slightly glazed in a dark sauce. That wonderful smell returned and he
shuddered.
"You pirates didn't tell her we were going out for dinner!" he shouted
spinning around to Soun and Genma.
"Why would we do something stupid like that, boy?" Genma replied. "Rest
assure your portion will not go to waste."
"Daddy!" Akane said.
"Now, now, Akane. I'm sure you two will have just as good of a meal while
on your date," commented Soun. He started ushering them towards the door.
"Now hurry along, or you'll miss your movie."
"No!" cried Kasumi. They paused surprised by her outburst. An unsettling
look appeared on Kasumi's face, her brows nit close together. Her mouth was
turned down in a deep frown, something they've never seen before.
"Ah, Kasumi. Are you all right?" asked Soun.
"Do I look all right to you, father?" she snapped. Soun's jaw almost hit
the ground at her response. Even Nabiki had to clear her ears not sure of
what she heard.
"Kasumi, if this about that new spice Marcus brought, I'll be more than
happy to try it," Genma said. He reached out to take a piece of yakitori, but
with cat like speed Kasumi slapped his hand sharply. He let out a yell,
clutching his hand and drew back.
"Whoa, whoa!" exclaimed Ranma. "If this means so much to you Kasumi, then
I'll try a little piece, okay?"
Kasumi's expression returned to normal. "Okay," she said as if nothing
had
happened.
Before Ranma could move though, Nabiki came up next to her sister, pushing
the plate aside. "I don't think we want to ruin Ranma's appetite, now do we,
Kasumi?" she said giving her elder sister a knowing look. She wasn't about to
let anything interfere with Akane's chances now. If Ranma started eating she
knew there would be no stopping him.
"Kasumi, please," Nabiki pleaded in a low voice. "This means so much to
Akane. Give it to him later."
Kasumi glared at her sister, dark clouds in the back of her eyes. Now was
not the time to bring any undue attention towards herself. No, Doctor Marcus
would be quite upset if his intentions were exposed. She'd wait until the
time was right.
"I'll keep it warm for you, Ranma," she suddenly said and abruptly headed
back towards the kitchen.
They all were quiet for a few seconds, trying to figure out what had just
happened.
"You two better get going," Nabiki said breaking the silence.
Akane and Ranma put on their shoes walking outside.
"Now you two don't do anything we would do," Soun called out happily at
the
departing couple.
"Oh lay off, will'ya!" Ranma replied as he opened the front gates. Akane
nudged him lightly in the ribs, setting off another round of dialogue between
the two as they disappeared around the corner.
Genma stretched his arms wide. "Now that that is done, let's eat!" he said.


Chapter Four

Dinner lived up well past its expectations, the Tendo Clan leaning
back from the table to allow their stomachs more room. Kasumi had outdone
herself, but despite the success, she was strangely quiet throughout the
entire meal. That in itself made things difficult for the rest of the family.
Soun observed his daughter nibbling slowly on a piece of chicken.
Something was wrong he could tell. She appeared to have lost that usual
spark, a dull gaze in her eyes not normally found in Kasumi. It might have
been because of the incident earlier with Ranma, but Kasumi was never one to
hold any grudges.
"Kasumi," he said. "Is there something bothering you?"
Kasumi stopped nibbling for a moment keeping her listless eyes down on
the table.
"No, Father," she finally said. Genma and Soun exchanged concerned
looks.
"Then why so glum?"
"I did not know I was being glum, father."
"Something is bothering you," said Genma. "You haven't said a word to
anyone since we started dinner."
"Normally, sister dear, that's not like you," added Nabiki.
Kasumi stopped eating, looking up. She glanced around at the
concerned faced then set her food down. "I'd better start cleaning up," she
said getting up.
"No, no--," Soun called out, but Kasumi had already grabbed an armful
of plates, heading to the kitchen. The three sat in stunned silence.
"This is bad," said Genma rubbing his chin. "It's to bad Doctor Tofu
wasn't here. I'm sure he could cheer her up."
Soun said nothing, arms crossed as he thought about his daughter. His
worry could be felt by the others. Nabiki gathered some of the dishes
together.
"I'll talk to her," she said. "I'm sure I can find out what's the
matter."
"Please," replied Soun.
Taking the dishes into the kitchen, Nabiki found Kasumi all ready hard
at work. She placed her stack on the counter.
"Need some help?" she asked.
Again the dark expression was written on her sisters face, but she
appeared not to have heard, staring out the window. Nabiki asked again, this
time gaining a response. Slowly, Kasumi turned her head towards her.
"No," she said then looked away again.
Nabiki narrowed an eye. She pulled a stool up and sat down. "Kasumi,
this is not right. You've been acting very strangely ever since Ranma and
Akane left."
Kasumi stopped washing the dishes. "I an fine, Nabiki. Now will you
please stop asking me if there is something wrong!" she said.
"No. Something's on your mind, and daddy is very worried about you."
Indeed there was something on Kasumi's mind, but it was hardly about
dinner. Marcus's instructions were burning deep inside, plans and ideas
forming on how to get Ranma subdued and delivered to him. The dark side of
Kasumi's mind filled with anger over the rebuff dealt to her this evening; a
simple task averted by her meddlesome siblings, an unnecessary delay the was
sure to anger Marcus. She had to get Ranma away from them, especially Akane,
but for that she would need some assistance.
Marcus didn't say how she acquired Ranma, only to get him. She wasn't
strong enough to take him physically, so what other choice did she have.
Kasumi looked at Nabiki.
Perfect!
"Nabiki, you're right," she said feigning a sad smile.
"Now we're getting somewhere," replied Nabiki. "Tell sister Nabiki
your problem."
Kasumi nodded. "Let me make us some tea, then I'll tell you
everything."

* * * * *

It looked like the storm had passed clearing the skies above Tokyo.
Ranma walked down the sidewalk hand in hand with Akane, casually gazing up at
the stars. The evening had turned out all right after all, just like his
father had said. No major conflagrations, well maybe the small spat on which
movie to see, but otherwise a very peaceful date. He looked over at Akane.
Her face was a glow with joy, something Ranma rarely seen from her in the
past. She was beautiful, a treasure he found himself thanking all the gods
above for sending. It would be nice if she had any decent skills, but there
was no way Ranma could imagine going on through life without her by his side.
Akane glanced up and he quickly turned away. She smiled, moving
closer leaning on his arm. It was more for support, trying hard not to fall
down and look foolish in front of him. These heels were killing her, and if
she did not find a place to take them off soon, her feet would be the size of
ripe melons by morning. They rounded a corner and Akane suddenly lost her
footing. She stumbled, but Ranma quickly caught her.
"Are you okay?" asked Ranma as he held her in his arms. Akane nodded.
A sudden awkwardness followed, their eyes locked on each other. Both of them
could feel the passion flowing between them, a love so strong that it
literally cried out for satisfaction.
Ranma fought back his urge, slowly placing Akane back on her feet.
Should he have taken advantage of the situation then, he wondered. In any
case it was to late.
"Thanks," she said with a weak smile. Spotting a nearby bench, Akane
went over and sat down, taking her shoes off. Relief flowed through her as
she rubbed some circulation back into her feet. Ranma sat down.
"Guess you're not meant for those," he said.
"Oh I don't know. With a little practice I think I can master them,"
she answered. They laughed.
"I'm really enjoying this date, Ranma," Akane said after they settled
down. Ranma held back his surprise, managing a nod. This was working better
than expected, he thought. Akane's happy, Nabiki will be happy, I'm happy--.
He paused at his last thought, realizing that maybe making a commitment
wouldn't be so bad after all. Too his surprise, Akane suddenly leaned up
against him, resting her head against his chest.
"Uh, Akane--."
"Shh," she said.
Together they gazed up at the stars, enjoying the moment. Finally,
Akane let out a sigh.
"I hope Kasumi has settled down," she said.
"Yeah, so do I," agreed Ranma. "That was unlike her to be so
forceful, especially when it comes down to you and I being together."
"I wonder what caused it?"
Ranma shrugged. "You don't think she's jealous now, do you?" he said
with a slight grin. Akane drew back, smirking at him.
"Ranma. You ought to be ashamed of yourself," she replied.
"Hey, I seem to be a hot commodity with--."
Akane thumped him hard on his chest. "You better bring it back down
to earth, mister."
He laughed, pulling her close once more. "I'm just kidding, Akane."
"Meany," she muttered.
"Still. . . I'd never thought I'd ever anger Kasumi. Wonder if it was
because I didn't want to eat her meal?"
"Oh don't let it bother you. I'm sure she'll get over it."
"Yeah, but what if she stops cooking for me. How will I eat?"
"Worried about your stomach. Don't you ever think about anything
else?"
"Got to keep up my strength."
Akane giggled. "Don't worry. If she does that, then I'll feed you,"
Immediately Ranma's stomach curled up in a ball. He lost a breath,
fear ripping inside at the thought of Akane's suggestion. Oh boy, bad enough
making Kasumi mad, this threat certainly meant death no matter how anyone
looked at it.
"Uh, Akane, maybe we should head back home. It is getting late," he
said.
Akane looked up and Ranma found himself lost in the soft gaze of her
eyes. "Ranma, do we have too?"
"I did tell your father I'd have you home by midnight."
"Let's stay here a little longer, okay?"
He couldn't resist, the sorrowful look she was giving him breaking
down any protest he had. So what if he had to starve for a while. If it
meant spending quality time with Akane, then it would be a small, err. . . .
not so small price to pay.
Ranma nodded, pulling Akane closer to him. Together they continued to
watch the stars.

* * * * *

Nabiki's eyes were unfocused, locked in a lost gaze up at the ceiling.
She lay sprawled on the kitchen floor, Kasumi on her knees next to her.
Kasumi whispered her instructions into Nabiki's ear, waiting for signs of
movement. A slight twitch of a hand meant that Nabiki was finally coming
around.
"Do you understand now, Nabiki?" Kasumi said.
Nabiki blinked her eyes, sitting up slowly. "Yes," she replied. "I
understand completely."
Kasumi smiled and stood back up. She poured what was left of Nabiki's
tea back into the pot on the stove, and continued washing dishes.
"Ranma," she began. "We must find a way to get him away from Akane."
"That is going to prove difficult," replied Nabiki as she picked
herself up from the floor. "They're virtually inseparable."
"I know, but I believe that Ranma can be slipped the sap either during
breakfast tomorrow morning, or during lunch,"
"At school?" questioned Nabiki.
Kasumi looked over to her. "You will have to keep an eye on him," she
said.
Nabiki thought a moment. "That's very risky, Kasumi. What if I can't
get to him. What if I'm not around when he does eat his lunch?"
"We do not have time to wait, sister," Kasumi sternly answered.
"Doctor Marcus is expecting Ranma sometime tomorrow. We must be successful."
"Understood," replied Nabiki. "I think though we should try and bring
Akane under control. She has a better chance of watching him than I."
It wasn't a bad idea Kasumi had to admit, but not practical in light
of the short time left. No, they'd have to focus on Ranma, and if he
continued to be elusive then maybe Akane.
"We will continue as planned," she said. "Go clear the table before
father starts to get suspicious."
"What do I tell him about you?"
"You're pretty quick on your feet. Think of something."
Nabiki smiled cheerfully, heading out the kitchen. . .


Chapter Five

A ray of sunlight brought Ranma from his sleep, yawning loudly as he
sat clearing the sleep from his eyes. He stretched his arms working out the
stiffness in them. Boy what a great night I had, Ranma thought. Akane, how
different she is once you get to know her.
It may have been a late night, but Ranma didn't care. In fact he was
surprised he woke up before his alarm clock went off. A quick glance told him
it was seven thirty-five, early but--.
SEVEN THIRTY-FIVE!
School started in less than half an hour. He'd be late, and that
meant more bucket time in the hall. Damn!
Shooting out of the futon, Ranma dashed out his room shouting Akane's
name at the top of his voice. He slammed open her door, finding her still in
a deep slumber.
Ranma knelt giving her several quick shakes until she finally stirred.
"Huh. . . . Ranma?" Akane muttered as her eyes opened.
"Wake up. We're late for school!"
"Oh, is that all? Come get me when breakfast is ready," she replied
turning over.
Ranma stared at her in a stunned silence. He reached out, shaking her
again. "Akane, did you here what I said?"
"Yeah, yeah, I heard you, it's not--."
Abruptly she leaped from her bed, the sheets and blankets fluttering
about the room. "Oh my gosh!" she cried out clutching the alarm clock in her
hands. "We're going to be late!"
"Really now," answered Ranma skeptically. "You know, Akane sometimes
I wonder--."
GLOMP!
AHHH!
Ranma found himself screaming out to the high heavens, bouncing around
on his left foot, P-Chan latched securely around his right ankle. The piglet
growled angrily at him, biting down harder.
"Really, Ranma. This is no time to be playing with P-Chan," Akane
scolded him.
"OW, OW, but I'm not--," he began, but Akane pushed him out the door.
"Go get dressed!"
The door slammed shut in his face. Ranma glared down at P-Chan; who
glared up defiantly at him.
"Ryoga, sometimes you can be such a pain in my ass!" he grumbled,
rapidly hobbling down the hallway to his room.

* * * * *

Moments later, after prying P-Chan from his leg, Ranma burst out his
room again fully dressed, school bag in hand. He paused briefly to grin at
the now caged P-Chan squealing angrily on the floor.
"Sorry, Ryoga. I'll ask Kasumi to let you out after we're gone," he
said.
Dashing into the front, Ranma called to Akane once more. It was
getting close to eight, and they had barely a chance of making it through the
school door and into class before roll was completed.
"Just a minute!" she replied.
"Just a minute, just a minute she says," grumbled Ranma. A quick
glance at his watch made him panic even more. "Great. Why do women pick the
oddest times to try and look their best?"
He ran a nervous hand through his hair and spun around, only to find
Kasumi standing behind him. He yelped stumbling back to the floor in
surprise. Kasumi smiled down at him.
"Are you all right, Ranma?"
"No, we're gonna be late if we don't get out of here soon," he
answered.
She laughed holding out a cup of hot tea for him. "Drink," she said.
Ranma frowned. "Now? Kasumi it's steaming hot."
"All the better. Now drink," she replied.
"I'm not really thirsty, Kasumi," he replied. "Akane and I need to
get going."
Kasumi kneeled down pulling the cup back. She gave Ranma a sad
pouting look. "I made it especially for you, Ranma," she said.
Ranma knew he'd better drink the tea Kasumi offered him, otherwise she
might get angry again and refuse to cook for him ever. Not too healthy of a
choice with Akane just dying to become his primary hostess.
"Okay, Kasumi," he said.
She handed him the cup, and he had the edge just to his lips when down
from the stairs flew Akane. So caught up in her rush to get to school, she
did not see them on the floor. The momentum carried Akane right into Ranma,
and they tumbled in a heap of flailing arms and legs. Ranma's cup of tea
spilled out of his hands.
"What, we need to get you glasses too!" shouted Ranma.
"Funny, Ranma. What were you doing on the floor there anyway?" she
shouted back.
"I was about to have some of Kasumi's tea until your clumsy self ran
into me."
Akane pulled herself upright turning to Kasumi. She was about to
apologize, but caught her breath inching back from her sister. Kasumi's face
was turned down in a harsh look of rage. She held her fist up shaking them as
the anger built inside.
"A-K-A-N-EEEEE!" she growled. Ranma started, reaching out to pull
Akane away before anything could happen. "You, you. . . . IDIOT!"
Both of them cringed, shocked by this unusual outburst.
Threateningly, Kasumi started to lean towards them, then abruptly stopped and
stood up. She let out a brief huff, stepped over them and headed back into
the kitchen.
"What was that?" asked Ranma in a low voice. Akane shook her head
unable to reply. She took a quick glance up at the clock.
"We'd better go," she said. Together they leaped to their feet
rushing for the patio door.
"Hold it!" Kasumi suddenly yelled, stopping them before they could hit
the threshold. Hesitantly they looked back.
"Your lunches," finished Kasumi tossing them over.
Silently she watched as they ran across the courtyard out through the
gates. A step sounded beside her, Kasumi gazing at her sister.
"Lucky, isn't he?" said Nabiki.
Kasumi said nothing the dark expression still on her face. With a
sharp twitch of her head, she motioned her to follow them.

* * * * *

An hour in the hall left Ranma's arms heavy and tired; Akane not in
much better shape when they staggered back into class. Three periods later,
both of them were beyond hungry, ready to take a much needed break. Gathering
their lunches, they headed outside to find a quiet place to eat and talk about
the days events so far.
Akane felt disturbed by the recent encounters she'd had with Kasumi.
Outburst of anger, looks of death that would never have been seen in her
brought concern and worry to mind. She wasn't the only one who had noticed
the change.
"I sure hope Doctor Tofu returns soon," commented Ranma. "I think
Kasumi needs a check up."
"You really think so?" she replied.
"Yeah. I can't believe how forceful she's been. It's like she's
possessed or something."
"Did you see the way she looked at me when I ran into you? I thought
I was going to die right there."
"Just not like her," Ranma said shaking his head slowly.
Akane pointed over to a section of trees and they set out a spread
ready to eat. Ranma smacked his lips eagerly, ready for some good home
cooking. He opened his lunch box and peered inside.
"Huh?" he said with a frown. Inside were two sticks of yakitori
laying on a bed of rice smothered in a dark reddish-brown sauce. Not what
Ranma was expecting. He looked over at Akane. She too held a lost look on
her face.
"Boy, is she really mad at me," she said.
"What'd you get?"
"Rice. No sushi roll, no sausage patty, no, no anything. Just rice.
One scoop of rice."
Ranma peered into her lunch box. "One scoop, eh? Well I got two
yakitori sticks here--."
"Gimme one!" Akane cried. Her lunge for his box grasped empty space,
Ranma holding it out of her reach.
"Ho, ho, ho. Hungry are we now?"
"Stop teasing me, Ranma."
"Now Akane, a growing boy like me must have proper sustenance. You
don't want me weak and feeble, do you?"
Akane let out a huff, turning her back to him furiously. It wasn't
wise to have two of the Tendo sisters angry with him. Ranma tapped her
lightly on the shoulder.
"I'm sorry, Akane," he said. Akane remained silent. "Okay, okay,
I'll give you one. I was going to do that anyway."
Slowly Akane glanced over her shoulder. He smiled, holding his box up
to her and she quickly shifted around next to him. Concealed behind a near by
tree, Nabiki spied on the two, waiting for them to eat the drugged meal.
Apparently this would be a packaged deal, two for one wasn't bad at all. She
watched as Ranma opened his box, but before he could take one of the sticks
another figure suddenly appeared before them.
"Nihao!" exclaimed Shampoo startling them. The purple-haired Chinese
girl sat astride her delivery bike holding a box high above her head. She
glanced between the two, then placed an envious stare on Akane.
"What you do here with my husband!" Shampoo snarled.
Akane tensed preparing to take a fighting stance, but Ranma
intervened.
"We're about to have lunch, and I'm not your husband, Shampoo," he
answered her.
Shampoo paused. "Humph, minor detail," she said dismounting.
Instantly she was at his side. "Ranma look, Shampoo bring you bigger lunch.
Better than petty meal Akane make."
"Why you b--," Akane started to say. Ranma waved his hands,
preventing her from moving to the attack. He faced Shampoo, an expression of
joy in his eyes.
"Lunch?" he said.
"Yes, lunch," Shampoo replied. She opened the box, pulling out a
steaming bowl of Won Ton soup. Ranma and Akane both drooled at the sight.
"You like?"
"Shampoo, you're a godsend."
"I have more too!" Shampoo turned around staring back up the walkway.
"Mousse, hurry up!"
A series of grunts and groans sounded, then around the corner Mousse
appeared carrying two more boxes before him. Mousse's white outfit was
speckled with sweat from all of his exertions. His long black hair hung limp;
no doubt Shampoo made him run the entire way from the restaurant. Carefully
he staggered up under the shade of the tree and set the boxes down, collapsing
on the ground next to them.
"Hi, Mousse," Akane said. He looked back.
"I know that voice," Mousse said sitting up. Pulling the pair of
coke-bottle thick glasses from his pocket, Mousse put them on. Not much help,
he crawled closer for a better look.
"Ah, Akane," he said then caught Ranma's blurred figure. Mousse
flipped up his glasses and squinted his eyes. He replaced them, stared again
then drew back.
"Ranma!" cried Mousse leaping to his feet. "Shampoo, you mean to tell
me that I carried all this for, for him!"
Shampoo swatted him across the forehead dislodging his glasses. "Shut
up. You just employee, so work! This not matter to you," she replied.
"But I took my lunch break off to help. At least you could feed me!"
"Ranma more important than you, now be quiet and pick up your
glasses!"
Mousse dropped to his knees, blindly feeling around on the ground.
Oddly Ranma sympathized with him. Mousse's deep love for Shampoo was
admirable, but silly in the face of his treatment by her. Sometimes he wished
that the man would take a stand, slap some sense into Shampoo and make her see
how much he cared. Out of view, Ranma nudged Akane. He slipped her his lunch
box, motioning for her to give it to Mousse. She quickly understood.
"Mousse," called Akane. She got up and helped him retrieve his
glasses. "Here," she finished giving him Ranma's lunch.
Behind the tree, Nabiki leaned back rolling her eyes up towards the
sky. She placed a frustrated hand to her forehead. I just don't believe
this, she thought.
Meanwhile, Mousse stood stunned by Akane's kindness. "You'd give me
your meal?" he stammered.
"Sure. You deserve it," she replied giving Shampoo a contemptuous
glance.
"Wow. Thanks, Akane!"
Akane returned to Ranma's side, enjoying the look of irritation on
Shampoo's face.
"Shampoo not care!" she said turning her nose up to the air, but Ranma
could sense the jealousy in her.
"Now don't get all bent out of shape, Shampoo," he said. "There's
plenty of food for us all. Why don't you guys have lunch with us."
The beeper on Shampoo's belt went off. She silenced it, checked the
number then stood up.
"No, we have more deliveries to make!"
With that she bounded back onto her bike, spinning around. "Oh, and
Ranma," Shampoo suddenly said. "You come by restaurant tonight, okay?"
"Uh, why Shampoo?"
She leaned down towards him. "Shampoo have extra special dinner
planned," she replied beetling her brows mischievously at him. Akane and
Mousse both let out strained growls, barely able to hold back their wrath.
Ranma felt a nervous bead of sweat build on his forehead. "I dunno,
Shampoo, Akane and I had plans," he replied.
"What!" Shampoo jerked back like she'd just been pricked by a knife.
"I bring you lunch out of kindness of heart, and you say no. What, Shampoo
not good enough for you on dinner date like ugly Akane?"
Akane shot to her feet. "Who are you calling ugly!" she shouted.
"You, silly girl!" replied Shampoo.
Quickly Ranma interposed himself between them. "Okay, Shampoo. We'll
come by tonight."
"Not we, you!"
He hesitated for a moment. "I'll be there," Ranma finally answered.
That seemed to satisfy Shampoo for the moment, a smile returning to
her face. "You not forget," she said and pecked him quickly on the cheek
before rushing off. Mousse glared at him, then turned running back up the
walkway.
"What do you mean 'I'll be there'?" Akane asked him.
Ranma sat back down, pulling her with him. "Hey, she brought us
lunch. Least I could do. Besides, it's a restaurant. Doesn't mean that a
certain somebody can't come in for a meal now, does it?"
Akane started to object, then realized what he was getting at.
"For such a lout, you have very devious mind," she said.
"Keeps me well fed and alive," he joked.
They broke out laughing, digging in to the food.

* * * * *

From behind the tree, Nabiki watched the giggling duo as they ate.
What an unexpected turn this had developed into. Again Ranma avoided taking
the Ginsukou sap, delaying the plans Kasumi had set. Bad enough she'd be
angry; now what to do about Mousse when he eats the yakitori in Ranma's lunch
box. She peeked around again shaking her head, then quietly slipped away.
Better go collect Mousse before some idiot accidentally makes him do
something we'll all regret.

* * * * *

Shampoo's legs pumped hard and fast as she made her way through the
streets back towards the Neko Hanten, Mousse desperately trying to keep up a
few steps behind. Infuriated by both Akane and her own stupid jealousy,
Shampoo wanted to cry out wishing that there was some way to end her mounting
confusion.
I not supposed to care about silly Mousse, she thought angrily. He
not one for me, Ranma is! She took a glance back; Mousse still close in trail
but showing signs of fatigue. He not so silly sometimes. Really very handy
to have around. A sudden feeling of shame hit her, past memories of how
selfish and cold she has been towards the love struck man upsetting her
concentration. Why was he bothering her so?
Shampoo shook her head sharply and stopped the bike at the nearest
corner. She reached out catching Mousse as he blindly trundled along. He
yelped in surprise, then Shampoo pulled him close so he could see.
"Shampoo, what are you doing!" he exclaimed.
She let him go. "Shampoo stop to figure out why I feel so strange
about you."
"Huh?"
Shampoo got off the bike and began walking slowly around him. "I not
understand," she began. "You not as big and strong as Ranma, slow whited,
underskilled and yet Shampoo feel concern."
"You're comparing me against Ranma?" He let out a laugh. "Feh, I'll
break him down into small bits yet, Shampoo. He won't ever have you!"
Silly man, Shampoo mused watching him rant from behind. She tipped
her head slightly intrigued by Mousse's defiance, admiring his literally blind
devotion. Akane's gesture off compassion brought out a truth in her that she
had long held back. Maybe Mousse was the one for her after all, and that she
really loved him.
"Mousse," she said spinning him around. "Stop jabbering like lost
puppy." Mousse shut up.
Lot of work to do, Shampoo thought shaking her head. Her eyes came
across the lunch box, and her stomach let out a light growl. "We walk now,"
she said hooking an arm around his. Elation rushed through Mousse. Just the
touch of her skin on his made him weak, his mind lightheaded with delight.
"You share lunch with Shampoo?" Shampoo asked.
Without hesitation, Mousse had the lid open. She took one of the
yakitori sticks and began nibbling on the meat.
"Hmm. This is flavor I not recognize," said Shampoo.
Mousse savored the meat in his mouth, trying to identify the
ingredients. "You know you're right. Kind'a spicy. Really an interesting
taste."
"I'll bet great-grandmother can tell what this is. If not, I'll
get--."
The yakitori stick fell from her hand, Shampoo abruptly stopping dead
in her tracks. Her eyes went wide as she suddenly lost all control of her
body. The delivery bike crashed to the sidewalk and Mousse panicked.
"Shampoo, Shampoo what's wrong!" he shouted. Shampoo began to fall.
He caught her, looking around. "Hey, somebody call a, a--."
The rest of his words died away as the drug overtook him. He leaned
back against a nearby lightpole staring listlessly at the people slowly
gathering around them. A figure suddenly moved close.
"Oh you two," Nabiki said shaking her head in mock disgust. She took
each one under an arm. "Drinking. At their age," she said to the onlookers
around them. Several of the people snickered, the crowd dispersing.
Nabiki knew that was close, letting out a sigh. She hailed a taxi,
piled the two into the back and gave the driver directions to the dojo.

* * * * *

Things were really getting out of hand. Really out of hand. Kasumi
paced steadily back and forth in the kitchen, Nabiki and their new found
companions watching her. Once more fate has turned against her, Ranma eluding
the simple trap they set for him. Now instead of him, Shampoo and Mousse were
part of Renon Marcus's family. Worse yet, time had run out.
Kasumi stopped, turning to Nabiki. "Doctor Marcus called shortly
before you arrived. He wants to see me," she said.
Nabiki arched a brow. "Oh boy. What a surprise he's in for. I'd
like to see the look on his face when you tell him what's been happening."
"You will. I'm not going alone," Kasumi replied. She glanced over at
the two standing quietly behind them and began pacing once more. "Ranma. . .
.what is it about him that makes all the luck fall his way?"
"Sister, dear. Don't loose any hair over this. They'll be home soon,
and I'm sure he'll be more than ready to eat by dinnertime."
"Marcus wanted him this afternoon, Nabiki. Tonight is to late."
"Ranma not eat here anyway," Shampoo interjected.
Kasumi threw up her hands, glancing towards the ceiling in
frustration.
"I forgot to tell you," Nabiki added. "Ranma made a dinner engagement
with Shampoo for tonight.
"That is not something to be forgetting, Nabiki!" Kasumi snapped.
"I not see what problem is, Kasumi," continued Shampoo. "Ranma come
down, and we get him there."
"Yeah. I'll hit him over the head and drag him off before anyone even
notices," added Mousse.
Nabiki gave him a skeptical look. "You hit Ranma over the head? Good
luck," she said. "Besides, what about Akane, hmm?"
"Akane not come!" declared Shampoo. Even under the influence of the
sap, Shampoo's jealousy still remained strong in her. Nabiki laughed.
"There is no way in hell that Akane is going to allow Ranma to come
waltzing down into your clutches, Shampoo. No way, no how."
"Then we'll have to take care of her before that," suggested Mousse.
"It's to late for that now," replied Nabiki. "I think the best option
is for Shampoo to drug Ranma's meal, and if need be, Akane's as well."
"All right, all right," Kasumi said ending any further discussion.
"We can worry about Ranma later. Right now I think we'd better go and see
Doctor Marcus before he gets upset. Not that he won't be anyway."
She reached into her dress pocket, pulling out the address Marcus had
given her. Not too far of a walk, if they hurried they could be there in half
an hour. Nabiki peered over her shoulder, reading the address.
"Told you we should have converted Akane first," she whispered to her.
Kasumi frowned, cutting her eyes over at Nabiki.
"Get your coat, we're leaving."


Chapter Six

A two-story industrial warehouse provided the base camp for Renon
Marcus. Situated close to the run of the Kanda River, a high concrete wall
surrounded the grounds preventing any curious by-passers from looking inside.
Kasumi stood ringing the buzzer at the main gates while her escorts waited
patiently behind her. The whine of the security camera playing upon her
sounded, then the lock snapped open
Moments later they stood before Renon in one of the upper floor
offices. Kasumi had explained the events that lead up the current situation,
waiting for the angry words from her master.
Renon looked displeased, but maintained control of his temper. He
glanced at each person, arching a brow while re-evaluating their options.
"Don't fret, Kasumi," he said getting up from his chair. Renon
stroked Kasumi's cheek tenderly. "You did your best I'm sure. Ranma will
just have to be taken in a different way."
"He has luck on his side," she replied.
"Nine lives of a cat would be a better description."
"Ranma hates cats," Nabiki suddenly said.
Marcus turned giving her a thoughtful gaze. "And she is?"
"Nabiki, my middle sister," answered Kasumi.
"Nabiki, hmm. The Chinese girl?"
"Shampoo."
"The Blind Man?"
"Mousse. They both work at a restaurant call the 'Neko Hanten'. I
guess you can call them friends of Ranma."
"Well, welcome to my family. An unexpected turn of events, but not
particularly a bad one." Marcus stood before Nabiki. He gave her a quick
once over.
"You have a mercenary streak in you, Nabiki. Cunning, wit. Those I
can use in my plans."
"Do your plans include profit?" Nabiki asked.
Marcus burst out laughing. "No, much more than that. Let's get back
to our main problem." He went back to his desk, picking up a slip of paper.
"Kasumi, I will need you to help me cultivate the Ginsukou roots nurturing in
the greenhouse downstairs."
"My father will ask questions," replied Kasumi.
"Tell him you're working with me, and that I'm paying you well. That
should quell any suspicions. Nabiki, I'd like you to look up some people for
me; a mister Ryoga Hibiki, no address to speak of. He might prove to be
difficult to locate."
"I know exactly where he's at," Nabiki said. "He's usually close by
our Dojo."
Marcus started slightly surprised. "Really? Then I trust you can
arrange for him to sample the sap."
"It will be done."
"Good, good. Now this next fellow is an important one; Tatewaki
Kuno."
Nabiki's brows rose up. "Kuno-baby," she said.
"Kuno Baby?"
"That is Nabiki's pet name for Kuno," explained Kasumi. "She's in
love with him."
"I see," Marcus said smiling. "Then this job should be easy for you."
"When do you need him?" Nabiki asked.
"By tomorrow evening."

She nodded, acknowledging his orders.
Returning to his chair, Renon found himself thinking again about
Ranma. Illusive young man, he thought. He let out a sigh. "Saotome. . . .
there must be a way to corner him."
"Let Shampoo take care of Ranma," said Shampoo.
Renon looked up at her. "And how do you plan to do this?"
"He come to restaurant tonight. I will drug his food and bring him
back, with or without Akane!"
"My, my, such a violent thing aren't we," Marcus said, taken aback
slightly by her outburst. He thought about her plan. Opening the left top
drawer of the desk, Marcus pulled out two test tubes filled with the Ginsukou
sap.
"Those are the last of my supplies until Kasumi and I can distill
more," he said handing Nabiki and Shampoo one each. "Don't waste them."
"We won't," replied Nabiki pocketing her vial. "This job is as good
as done."
"We shall see, Nabiki Tendo," replied Marcus. "You may go now, except
for you Kasumi."
"Tell father I'll be late," Kasumi said to Nabiki as she passed.
Nabiki paused at the door, cutting a quick glance between her and Marcus
before stepping out.
Marcus pushed himself away from the desk leaning back in the chair.
He ran a lustful eye over her body, smiling seductively.
"Now, Kasumi," he said motioning her to come over. "Let us finish
some. . . . heh, heh, unfinished business."
Kasumi moved towards him.

* * * * *

After school, Ranma and Akane decided to relax at home before heading
off to the Neko Hanten later that evening. Out in the dojo training room,
Akane; now dressed in a white gi, made several swipes and kicks at Ranma as
she pursued him around the room. Her attempts were futile. Effortlessly,
Ranma leaped and dodged each and every blow, his faced buried deep into a
book.
"Geesh, Akane. Some of these calculus problems look really hard," he
said bounding back from a chain of kicks.
Akane grit her teeth angrily increasing the attack. She made a chop
blow to his head, but Ranma ducked aside missing him by several inches. A
spinning kick at his midsection was greeted by empty air, Ranma back flipping
several times out of harms reach.
He landed on his feet turning the page. "Wow, look at this monster
problem, Akane. It's going to take two reams of paper alone to figure out the
first equation!"
A low growl began to build in Akane's throat, increasing in volume as
she charged towards him. Ranma stood immobile apparently unawares of her
approach. I've got him, she thought picking up speed. Akane leaped, left leg
thrust out intending to down her arrogant fiancée.
"HAAAAA!" she cried, but her yell soon turned into a surprised squeal;
Ranma making a casual dip to the side his attention still locked on the
contents of the book. Akane hit the mats with a loud thump, bouncing a few
times before coming to a stop flat on her back.
"Akane?" Ranma said noting the sudden silence. He turned around,
Akane lying still on the floor. "Akane, are you all right?"
Akane tilted her head back towards him then sat up. She was annoyed,
but strangely calm in light of her embarrassment. "I should have expected
that," Akane muttered shaking her head.
"You're not making this any fun, Ranma."
"Oh. . . . sorry," he replied. "Eh, what can I do to make this fun
for you?"
Akane leaped to her feet. "You can start by putting that book down
and fight me!" she shouted.
"Why, I'm doing good as it is now?"
"RANMA!"
Ranma drew back flinching instinctively. The look on Akane's face
said more than words, and he placed the book on the ground. That pleased her,
Akane moving up to take a fighting stance.
"Now fight," she said.
Ranma frowned scratching his head. "Uh, Akane uhm, how am I going to
say this? Uhm, the reason I don't fight you is. . . .well."
Akane watched him fidget around, searching for the right words to say.
"Why, Ranma, why?" she finally said impatiently.
Ranma gazed sheepishly down at the mat. "Ah, I don't want to hurt
you," he muttered.
"What!" Akane gaped at him incredulously. She took him by the
collar. "Saotome, I am tired of beating myself up. Now don't worry about
hurting me and fight!"
She let go stepping back to take stance once more.
Ranma sighed. He took a fighting stance. "Okay, Akane, but I know I
can take you in less than five seconds,"
"Fight!"
Akane threw a punch, but as expected Ranma deflected it. He
countered, placing a leg behind hers, grabbed the front of her gi pulling her
around. Akane clinched her eyes tight, waiting for the blow Ranma prepared to
deliver, but it never came. His fist was drawn back behind his head, but
Ranma paused gazing down at her. No way could he hit Akane. His fist
uncurled, and he found himself holding her gently in his arms.
Slowly, Akane opened an eye, peeking around to find Ranma staring down
at her. She looked up, their eyes locking upon each other. All the tension
in Akane suddenly faded away, replaced by a warm sense of passion that flowed
freely through her. Apparently Ranma felt it as well, starting slightly. He
began to pull her up towards him. Akane did not resist him more than ready
for this, but again Ranma hesitated.
Taking a deep breath, Ranma began to draw back.
Not this time Ranma Saotome, you coward, Akane thought. She placed
her arms around his neck, drawing him towards her again. They were eye to eye
now, lips close together when suddenly Ranma sensed that they were not alone
anymore.
He looked over to find Happosai kneeling beside them, puffing on his
pipe clearly interested in what was going on. Immediately Ranma stood up,
Akane flopping to the mat.
"Old Man, what are you doing here?" he shouted.
Happosai let out several more puffs, glancing excitedly between the
two. "Don't let me stop you, boy," he said. "This will make Akane's panties
all the more valuable."
A mouth full of math book sent Happosai screaming out the door, cries
of pervert, and other nasty comments following in trail.
"Oh, I see you found them," Soun said as Happosai zipped pass. Seeing
the way Ranma was standing and Akane lying on the mat, Soun arched a brow.
"Are we interrupting something?" he asked them.
"No," answered Ranma.
"Yes," replied Akane.
Shooting Ranma an evil stare, Akane stood up.
"I guess this can wait," continued Soun.
"No, Daddy. It's too late now," said Akane. Ranma gazed casually at
the ceiling as if nothing had happened.
"It's nothing really. I was just wondering if you anyone knew where
Kasumi was?"
Normally around this time Kasumi would be out in the kitchen preparing
the evening meal. Unless there was something wrong, she'd never leave the
house without telling somebody where she was going.
"She didn't tell me anything ," answered Akane.
"We haven't seen her at all since we got home," added Ranma.
Soun looked down thinking silently to himself. "That girl has been
acting very strange lately," he said. "Now who's going to cook dinner
tonight?"
"No! Don't--," began Ranma, but he was to late.
Akane's eyes lit up. "I will, Daddy!" she exclaimed.
Soun shook visibly, a small bead of sweat on his brow. A foolish move
that was akin to opening Pandora's box.
"A-A-Akane. . . .y-y-you don't have to do that," he said nervously.
"Of course, unless Nabiki is going to do it," she replied.
"She's not here either."
"Then it's up to me to feed the household!"
"Woah!" cried Ranma holding out his arms as he backed away. "Good
thing I have other arrangements tonight."
Akane stalked after him. "You aren't going anywhere, pseudo-husband,"
she declared. "I'm cooking dinner, and you are going to eat it!"
Ranma stopped. "Oh really?" he replied.
"Yes, really!"
It looked as if Ranma was actually debating on the decision, then in a
flash he dashed out the door nearly knocking over Soun in the process.
Leaping over the still unconscious Happosai, Ranma was down the hall rounding
the corner towards the living room when a sturdy ankle tackle by Akane brought
him to the floor.
Immediately she was on his back before he could recover, pinning an
arm painfully behind him. Ranma cried out.
"You aren't going anywhere," Akane said again. She pulled his
ponytail back drawing Ranma's head up. "You're going to eat my meal, and
enjoy it. Understand?"
"No!" he exclaimed only to have Akane apply another twist to his arm.
Finally he slapped the floor repeatedly with his free hand, admitting defeat.
"Uhm, Akane. Don't you think you're being a bit too rough with
Ranma?" Soun asked watching the scene from a safe distance.
Akane pulled Ranma from the floor, careful to keep his arm pinned
behind him.
"Oh, no daddy. He's not even getting half of what I want to do to
him," she replied.
"I will once I eat anything you cooking," said Ranma. She gave him
another twist.
"Funny. Just for that, extra helpings!"
"He can have mine," suggested Soun.
Akane shot her father an angry glance silencing him. Okay you
doubters, she thought, I'm going to show you all what I can do.
"Too the kitchen," she said forcing Ranma forward. A struggle ensued,
Ranma desperately pleading for help from Soun as he was dragged kicking and
screaming along towards his fate.
"AHHH! Somebody help me!" he cried gripping at the doorway of the
kitchen.
"Get-in-here!" Akane shouted. With a final jerk, Ranma disappeared
the door sliding shut behind him.
At the same time, Genma and Nabiki came in through the patio door.
"Tendo, what is all that commotion?" Genma asked glancing at the
kitchen. Another cry sounded, the door cracking open to allow P-Chan out.
The piglet ran quickly up the steps.
"That's just Ranma and Akane as usual," answered Soun.
P-Chan reappeared, two pairs of handcuffs dangling from his mouth. He
went back inside and the door slid shut.
"Hey, those are my handcuffs," Nabiki said. Genma and Soun cast
questioning looks at her.
"And just where have you been, young lady?" Soun asked her.
"Taking care of some business with Kasumi, daddy," she replied.
"And where is your sister?"
"She's working, daddy."
Soun paused stunned by Nabiki's words. "Working? Where is she
working?"
"With Doctor Marcus, and getting paid quite handsomely."
An extra income in the family definitely wouldn't hurt things, but
Soun expected Ranma or Akane to pick up another job not Kasumi.
"She could have at least told us in advance," he said. "Now we have
to endure Akane's cooking."
Genma grunted agreeing with him
Nabiki listened as another cry from Ranma sounded. "I see it's a
McDonalds night tonight," she finally said.
"Not if you go in there and cook," suggested Soun.
Nabiki shook her head heading for the stairs. "Nope, have a prior
date I'm not going to miss,"
Soun's mouth sagged open. "B-b-but what about us, Nabiki?" he managed
to say.
Nabiki paused at the top of the steps, looking back over her shoulder.
"What about you?" she replied heading to her room.
Shock passed through both men as she disappeared. Genma scratched his
head unsure if he should interfere with Soun's family affairs. "Ah, I guess
this means that Women's Lib has finally reached the Tendo dojo, eh Soun?"
Soun said nothing, his gaze locked up in the direction of the stairs.
Genma feared that he had finally lost it, but slowly Soun turned around to
him.
"Have both my eldest daughters gone mad?" Soun asked him.
Genma placed a confiding arm around his shoulders. "I'm sure it's
temporary, Tendo," he said leading him towards the door. "Come, let us see if
we can find something edible to eat before your daughter turns her attention
towards us."


Chapter Seven

Kasumi walked up the walkway towards the dojo, stopping just long
enough to give herself a quick once over before opening the door. Her nose
was greeted by a strong offensive smell that briefly made her eyes water.
She gasped. "Oh no, Akane is cooking again!"
Rushing into the living room, there she found her father and Genma
both slumped over the center table, crying like two lost children. A cry from
the kitchen sounded; Kasumi drawing back as Ranma desperately pleaded to Akane
for mercy.
"NO, NO, please Akane. Not that, not that, NOOOOOO!" he cried.
"Goodness, what is going on in there?" she said.
Soun and Genma both looked up. In a flash they were at her feet,
praising the ground that she stood on.
"Oh, Kasumi you are here to rescue us!" cried Soun hugging her legs
tight.
"Daddy, daddy please!"
Genma wrapped his arms around her waist, crying freely into her dress.
"We feared for our lives," he moaned. "Kasumi, save my only son. I beg of
you!"
"I will if you two will just let me go!" she replied struggling to get
free.
They backed away; Kasumi striding towards the kitchen door. She
touched the handle, jerking her hand back. Hot? Wrapping her hand in a fold
of her dress, Kasumi pulled the sliding door open. Abruptly, she let out a
loud gasp, cupping both hands to her mouth.
The kitchen was a disaster area. Everything that was not intended to
have food on it did. The cupboards, the walls, the ceiling, everything.
Large dollops of multicolored foodstuff splattered the counter tops; something
dark and nasty dripping from the now dysfunctional ceiling fan. On the
cutting table at the center of the kitchen piles of discarded boxes, paper
towels, mixing bowls and other assorted utensils sat; the backwash from
Akane's preparations. Ranma also sat on the floor, each wrist cuffed to
either side of the table. He bawled incessantly, desperately jerking with no
success to free himself. P-Chan danced joyously at his feet, squealing in
obvious delight at Ranma's hopeless situation. He teased him, rolling on his
back to clutch his stomach in mock pain before squealing aloud and continue
his jig.
A burst of heat drew Kasumi's attention to the stove. There from the
partially opened oven door tongues of flames flickered out. Akane, dressed in
her cooking dress, held a cookie pan in front of her pushing the flames back
inside. She kicked the door shut.
"Not done," she heard her say. All four burners had a pot on them,
each bubbling over from the contents inside. One of them rattled violently,
Akane quickly placing a hand on the lid to keep it down. Carefully she opened
it peeking inside. A mass of ramen noodles snaked out wrapping tight around
her throat. Akane gasped struggling against its pull. She managed to grab
hold of a butcher knife cutting herself free. Angrily, Akane pulled the ramen
from her neck. She quickly threw it back into the pot, pouring paprika,
catsup, and anything else within reach while beating back the flailing strands
writhing around the edge with a wooden spoon.
"There, that dish is done," she said. Ranma moaned again bringing her
around. "Oh shut up. You haven't even tasted it yet!"
Akane noticed the shock Kasumi standing at the doorway. "Kasumi!" she
said cheerfully. "Don't worry about dinner, I have it all covered."
It looked more like most of it covered her, noticed Kasumi. Picking
her way carefully through the debris on the floor, she stopped in front of the
stove looking over at Ranma. Opportunity, thought Kasumi. Here was Ranma
helpless. All that was need was a cup of the sap tea and her mission would be
completed.
"Akane, where is that pot I had on the stove?" she asked looking
around.
"You mean the one with the brown stuff in it?"
"Yes, that one."
"I don't know. I think I might have threw it out."
Kasumi placed a hand to her face closing her eyes in mute frustration.
Now this only left one option open to them. Shampoo would have to succeed or
else Doctor Marcus would be furious.
"Ah, wrong move, Kasumi?" questioned Akane meekly.
"Yes, wrong move dear sister," Kasumi answered. She held out a hand.
"Keys."
Reluctantly, Akane fished through her front pocket, producing two sets
of keys soaked in mustard.
Kasumi wiped them off. "You have blown up my kitchen, Akane Tendo,"
she said walking over to the cutting table. She released Ranma; P-Chan
grumbling at her.
"Keep it up little pig, and I'm going to throw you into a microwave,"
threatened Kasumi. P-Chan let out a squeal and scurried out the kitchen as
fast as his legs could carry him.
"Uh, thanks Kasumi," Ranma said, but there was a slight frown on his
face. She smiled at him.
"Anytime, Ranma," Kasumi replied. "You better go and make your date
with Shampoo."
"Oh yeah!" exclaimed Ranma rushing for the door. He suddenly stopped
dead in his tracks, turning around. "Kasumi, how did you--."
"Don't argue with me," Kasumi interrupted. She began pushing him
towards the door. "Get going before I have a change of heart and allow Akane
to feed you."
Ranma smirked. "I think I'd better," he said.
"Ranma!" cried Akane. She started to follow him, but Kasumi
interposed herself in front of her.
"No way, little sister," she said. "This mess belongs to you, and
you're going to clean it up."
Akane was perplexed, staring at her elder sister like a total
stranger. "How could you let him go, Kasumi? He's heading straight into
Shampoo's arms and you're allowing it to happen!"
"He's a grown man. I'm sure Ranma can take care of himself," she
replied.
"But, but I cooked for him. He didn't even get a chance to taste any
of it!"
"I guess that's fortunate then."
Soun started at the harsh remarks Kasumi gave her sister. Even though
Akane's cooking was the bane of the dojo, at least the girl attempted to feed
them. Kasumi berating her was also something not like her.
"Kasumi! Your sister tried to fill your position in your absence.
How can you ridicule her like this?"
Kasumi looked back slowly, a mocking smile on her face. "I take it
then that you both are ready to eat her meal?"
They shuddered violently at her suggestion. Suicide was not something
Soun or Genma were ready to commit.
"No, no, no, no," Soun stammered slowly backing away. "Uhm, you take
care of the kitchen, Kasumi. Genma and I will manage outside."
Both men cast fearful looks at each other and ran off.
Kasumi narrowed an eye at Akane. "Now, young lady I suggest you get
busy. Kill what's ever in those pots, put out that fire in my electric oven,
and repair that fan."
"But Kasumi--."
"Now, Akane!"
Sadly, Akane gazed at the floor, hurt by this turn of events. "Yes,
Kasumi," she muttered moving to the stove.
Kasumi cleaned off a stool and sat down. There was no chance for
failure now, she thought cynically. It would take Akane several hours to
clean all this up, by then Ranma would surely be in the family and on his way
to Doctor Marcus.
She crossed her arms, watching with a slight smile as Akane worked.

* * * * *

Nabiki stood patiently at the front door to of the Kuno residence,
awaiting permission from their maid to come in. She returned, bowing then led
her through the house out into the back. Nabiki looked around, the small
thermos she carried held behind her. Tatewaki stood out in the open grounds,
bokuto held before him. Across from him stood Sasuke, the Kuno's ninja hired
to defend and maintain the estate. He too held a bokuto, ready to spar with
him.
"Prepare yourself, Sasuke," Tatewaki said.
"I am ready whenever you are, Master Kuno," replied Sasuke.
Kuno lunged, his samurai robes fluttering in the wind as he bore down
on the ninja. Sasuke parried the blows, countering with a shot to the legs.
Kuno barely blocked it and backed off.
"Very good, Sasuke," he said. "But you cannot hope to defeat 'Blue
Thunder' with such lackluster counters."
Nabiki rolled her eyes at Kuno's self appointed title.
Sasuke shrugged slightly. "I must admit I am not truly putting my all
into our match."
"I see," Tatewaki answered. "You lack inspiration. Maybe if I quote
a few lines of poetry. That should help you."
Sasuke dropped his sword, curling up in a ball on the ground arms
clasped tightly around his head. "No, Master Kuno. I've done nothing wrong.
Please, please, I will be more aggressive!"
Tatewaki smirked down at his manservant, then noticed Nabiki standing
across the way. He arched a brow.
"Get up, Sasuke," he said. "We have company."
Sasuke quickly got up, following Tatewaki across the grounds.
"Nabiki, what a surprise," he said. "I do not believe today is payday
though, unless you have more merchandise for me, mmm?"
Nabiki admired Kuno's features, sighing inwardly. If only he'd loose
this forlorn lust for Akane, and Ranko; Ranma's girl form, she'd show him how
much of a woman she could be.
"No, Kuno-baby," she replied. "I have some merchandise, but not of
that kind."
"Oh?"
Nabiki glanced over at Sasuke. "Is there someplace we can talk
alone?"
"Of course. Leave us, Sasuke."
The ninja bowed, backing away. Kuno smiled. "This way," he said
motioning forward. . .

* * * * *

Kuno had led Nabiki to the garden at the far end of the estate. They
walked through the rows of plants enjoying the flowers all in full bloom.
Nabiki stopped to gaze close at one, a black rose she quickly identified as
one of Kodachi's deadly sleep inducing strains.
A lurid gaze filled Tatewaki's eyes as they roved up and down Nabiki's
body. She was a fine specimen of woman, he thought. Very bright. Someday I
must pursue her, once I've grown tired of Akane and the pigtailed girl. His
eyes stopped on the thermos in her hands.
"What's that?" he asked.
Nabiki turned around. "Oh this," she replied holding it up for him to
see. "This is what I want to talk to you about."
"A thermos?"
"No, what's inside," Nabiki undid the top, handing the cup to him.
She poured a dark reddish-brown liquid out filling it up. Carefully Kuno
examined this strange substance. He sniffed at it, drawing in it's oddly
delicate aroma.
"Tea?" he questioned.
"Ah, not exactly. You see Kasumi is helping to develop this drink
with an associate of hers. It's a new flavor that she thinks will
revolutionize the soft drink industry."
"So what does this have to do with me?"
"Kuno-baby," cooed Nabiki inching up close to him. She traced a
finger seductively along the front of his lapel. "I figured such a business
minded person like yourself would cherish the chance to invest in what
promises to be a very profitable item."
"And you want me to invest part of my family fortune into Kasumi, is
that it?"
"Of course silly. A brilliant person like you certainly can't go
wrong in anything he sets his mind to."
A smile lit Tatewaki's face. "Yes, the Kuno mind is such a finely
tuned instrument. Very rare now a days."
Nothing like a man with an ego four times his common sense to be so
gullible, Nabiki thought. She pointed to the cup.
"Try it," she said.
Kuno brought the cup up to his lips and was just about to take a
swallow, when a dark sinister laugh echoed through the air.
"Oh dear brother, I wouldn't do that if I were you," a voice sounded
from the bushes.
"Kodachi!" Tatewaki exclaimed. Out from the bushes rose Kodachi,
giggling at the two.
"Kuno, I thought you said we'd be alone," Nabiki said.
"I did. Kodachi, what are you doing in there!"
Kodachi walked out into the open. "Just tending to my lovely black
roses, brother dear," she answered.
"You're lying," Tatewaki said accusingly. "You were spying, trying to
see what Nabiki and I were up to."
"So if I was," replied Kodachi. She began walking slowly around
making carefree spins randomly on her toes, an occasional giggle to annoy
them. "You know my brother, if father finds out you were about to invest in
this mad scheme, he'd cut you off without so much as a thought."
Inside, Nabiki was relieved. For a moment there, she thought that
Kodachi had identified the Ginsukou sap, and was trying to avert Tatewaki from
ingesting it.
"That is my business!" exclaimed Tatewaki.
"But the family interest are just as much mine as yours," replied
Kodachi.
"So what do you want, Kodachi?" asked Nabiki.
"Oh not much, Nabiki," Kodachi said. "Just, let's say. . . .
twenty-five percent of all earnings."
"Blackmail!" cried Tatewaki. "And by my own sister."
"Who'll get what she wants or else I'll send Sasuke back to the house
for father."
"Sasuke?"
Out of the trees behind them Sasuke appeared. He went to one knee,
bowing his head. "I am here, Master Kuno."
"I told you to leave us alone!"
"I did, but Mistress Kodachi ordered me to take her to you."
Nabiki started to get impatient. "Kuno," she complained again.
"I'm sorry, Nabiki," he replied. Tatewaki turned to vent his anger at
Kodachi. "I have not even made a decision about this and already you plan to
leech off me!"
"Well you should chose your meeting places more carefully," replied
Kodachi.
As the two bickered, Nabiki stepped back watching the scene with
growing disdain. This should have already been concluded, she thought. No
way was she about to fall into the Ranma syndrome like her sister had.
Kodachi and Sasuke both had thrown a small wrinkle into her plans. Well, if
they wanted to be in on this, she would certainly oblige them.
"All right!" she shouted. The two siblings stopped, looking at her.
She smirked, taking the cup from Kuno and handed it to Kodachi. "Drink,"
Nabiki order her. Kodachi took a swallow, smacking her lips approvingly at
the taste.
"Very good," she said.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it," answered Nabiki taking the cup from her.
She poured another cup handing it to Sasuke. He looked up at Kuno and
Tatewaki nodded his head.
"Here, Kuno," Nabiki handed him the thermos.
He took a swallow from the flask, savoring this new exotic taste.
"Excellent. A most refreshing flavor."
"Taste much like the juice of a young pomegranate," added Sasuke.
"Eeep!" Kodachi suddenly sounded. She covered her mouth with a hand.
"Sorry. I don't know what caused that, Eeep!"
"Hick-ups, Mistress Kodachi?"
"I don't know. I feel rather--."
Kodachi tensed, eyes growing wide as saucers. Kuno waved a hand in
front of her face.
"Kodachi?" he queried, but his sister did not respond. "Nabiki, what
have you done to my sister!"
Nabiki said nothing, stepping back out of his reach. Sasuke let out a
small gasp. "Oh my, Master Kuno," he said. "I do believe we've. . . . been.
. . . drugged."
He collapsed to the ground, Kodachi following him.
Kuno turned to Nabiki. "What is the meaning of this! Nabiki, I,I,I.
. . ."
Tatewaki's words trailed away as his mind succumbed to the effects of
the drug.
Nabiki made sure that they were completely under, then smiled.
"Well, time to get to work," she said kneeling to give them their
instructions.

* * * * *

The final stains on the floor were reluctantly coming clean, Akane
letting out a relieved sigh as she scrubbed. Three hours, three hours of
backbreaking work. What drudgery I had to endure. Kasumi didn't make it any
better, what with her evil eye burning a hole in the back of my neck. The
stains disappeared and she tossed the brush into her bucket.
"There," she said standing up. "That's the last one."
Kasumi looked up from the magazine she was reading. "You missed a
spot," she said pointing to a mark on the far wall.
Akane angrily went over and wiped it off. "Gone, satisfied?"
It was pretty clean, Kasumi had to admit. Besides, several hours had
passed, Shampoo surely had Ranma to Doctor Marcus by now. Any moment the
phone would ring telling her that things were still on schedule.
She stood up. "Okay, you can go."
Akane broke for the door.
"Akane," Kasumi said stopping her dead in her tracks. "Please, if
you're going to cook again, wait for me to get home. Okay?"
"Sure, Kasumi. Look I've got to go before it's too late."
Akane dashed out, Kasumi watching her with a smug smile.
"It already is, my dear little sister," she muttered low.
After taking a quick shower, Akane ran out of the dojo running down
the street in full stride towards the Neko Hanten. Thoughts of Shampoo and
Ranma together filled her mind, increasing her fury as she moved.
"Ooo, if that bitch even so much as lays a paw on him, I'll rip her
eyes from her skull!" Akane turned a corner, taking a short cut through the
park. "And if Ranma is indulging in her advances, I'll make him wish he'd
eaten my meal!"
That enraged her, Akane letting out a loud cry while vaulting several
park benches.
"RANMA!" she called.
"Yo," came an unexpected reply.
She skidded to a stop, turning to find Ranma sitting in one of the
seats of a nearby swing set.
"Ranma?"
Ranma glanced at his watch. "Three hours. I expected you sooner than
that."
Akane took the seat next to him. "You waited for me," she said
cheerfully. "You do care."
Much to her surprise, Ranma remained sullen, staring down at the
ground in deep thought. Akane placed a hand on his.
"Ranma what's wrong?"
He sighed. "I couldn't go down there, Akane. Not now. I don't trust
Shampoo," He looked up at her a serious look in his eyes. "And I don't trust
Kasumi either."
Akane drew back shocked by his confession. "What's wrong with
Kasumi?"
"What's right with her is a better question," he replied. "I'm sure
you've noticed how she's changed over the past few days. Now don't you find
it odd that she literally kicked me out of the dojo to see Shampoo of all
things?"
He was right, Akane had to admit to herself. A troubled feeling
filled her. She did not like the thought of Kasumi being up to no good;
scheming against her for somebody else's gain. No, that she refused to
believe.
"She maybe acting funny, but not trusting her, Ranma?"
Ranma paused drawing in a deep breath to collect his thoughts.
"Akane, how did Kasumi know that I had a date with Shampoo tonight?"
Akane stared at him, a blank expression on her face. Slowly she
looked away, understanding finally what he was getting at.
"She couldn't have known," continued Ranma. "I didn't tell her, you
certainly didn't tell her, so how is it that she knew?"
"She shouldn't have," Akane replied.
"Right. Something is terribly wrong, Akane, and it has all the
smacking of a trap written into it. What kind I don't know, but I'm not going
down there, and I'm not going to trust anything Kasumi does or gives to me
until I find out what it is."
"So what do we do?" Akane asked after a long moment.
Ranma shrugged. "I don't know," he answered.
"Why don't we just go and ask them what's going on?"
"Do you think they are going to tell us?
Akane shook her head gazing sadly at the ground. A thoughtful
expression suddenly came to Ranma. He sat back think for a moment.
"What?" asked Akane noting his sudden change.
"They may not tell us, but they might tell somebody else." He stood
up. "Stay here, Akane. I'll be back in about ten minutes."
"Where are you going?" she called out as he ran off.
"Too get us some help!" he replied.

* * * * *

Okonomiyaki sizzled on the grill, it's pleasant aroma filling the air.
Ukyo Kuonji tossed a few more vegetables into the mix, flipping it over when
the batter had set then tossed it onto a plate. She placed it in front of her
customer, who thanked her before attacking the meal. Satisfied that he'd be
occu
"So, Ranma," she said leaning on the counter. "Let me get this
straight. You want Ryoga and I to go down to Neko Hanten and spy on Shampoo?"
Ranma swallowed the food in his mouth. "Yeah basically, Ucchan," he
answered her.
Ukyo chuckled. "Well I wouldn't put it past Shampoo to try something
just to get you alone. Kasumi helping her however; that I find very hard to
believe."
"We told you what we've been noticing, Ukyo," Akane said. "I know my
sister, and Ranma's right. Something is wrong."
"So what do you want us to do if we go down there?" Ryoga asked them.
"Look the place over. See if there is something in the works. Talk
to Shampoo and try to pry some info from her," replied Ranma.
"She does like to brag about her traps," added Akane.
"Heh, we'd be better off talking to Mousse, " Ukyo said. "I'm sure
he'd tell us just to see it get ruined."
"Do that. Anything is better than nothing," said Ranma.
Two more customers entered the restaurant, Ukyo excusing herself to go
and serve them. Ryoga set down his chopsticks, turning to Ranma.
"You know I'd never thought I'd see the day you would be scared of a
woman," he said smiling brightly. Ranma flinched sharply at his remark.
"Hey I didn't say I was scared of anybody," he replied.
"Could've fooled me. Today I've seen you crying like a two year old,
and now you're cowering away from Shampoo."
Akane leaned forwards. "How did you see that, Ryoga?"
Ryoga realized his mistake to late, grimacing as he quickly looked
away.
"He was looking through the window, Akane." Ranma lied. "But you
couldn't see him through all the food smeared on it."
Akane punched him in the shoulder.
Ryoga laughed then leaned close to Ranma so Akane couldn't hear.
"I'll admit one thing Ranma. Kasumi threatening me like she did was
definitely out of character."
Ukyo returned. "Well Ranma, I guess I can't help you," she said.
"Why not?"
"I have customers. Just can't leave them, can I?"
"That's okay, Ukyo," Ryoga said getting up from the stool. "I'll go by
myself."
Ranma knew that was not a good thing. If Shampoo was up to something,
Ryoga might be swayed by her to help in the attempt. He was quite aware of
his friend's feelings for Akane. Ukyo with him would at least insure a true
assessment of the situation.
"Akane and I will keep the place open while you guys go down there,"
he suggested.
Ukyo regarded him for a moment. "You must really be worried about
this, Ranma," She thought about his suggestion a bit more, than undid her
apron. "Okay. I'll go. Here." She started to hand Akane the apron, but
Ranma quickly took it from her.
Ukyo leaped over the counter. "Foods in the back, register's got
plenty of spare change so there shouldn't be any problems. This won't take
long anyway. Come on Ryoga."
"Personally Ranma, I think you might be just a tad bit paranoid on
this one," Ryoga said following her out the door.
"You think we are, Ranma?" Akane asked him.
Ranma shook his head. He put on the apron and went behind the
counter.
"Hey," shouted Akane. "Why did you take that from me anyway?"
"Because I don't think Ucchan could handle more than one lawsuit for
food poisoning, Akane," he replied with a grin.
Akane let out an angry huff, turning her head away from him. "Baka!"
she snapped crossing her arms furiously across her chest.

* * * * *

The Neko Hanten was busy with patrons when Ukyo and Ryoga walked in.
Cologne stood on a stool behind the open grill, fixing up dishes at a rapid
pace passing them to Mousse and Shampoo. Nothing unusual here, Ukyo noted
gazing around. Her eyes came to a stop on a table situated in the far corner
bedecked in the finest table linen and arrangements she'd ever seen. Nudging
Ryoga lightly in the arm, Ukyo nodded to the table. Together they headed
towards it.
Out of nowhere, Shampoo appeared in front of them. "You not sit
here!" she said sternly.
"Well it seems that this is the only table available, Shampoo," Ukyo
answered.
"Sit at counter then!"
"I want to sit at a table. It's my right as a patron, no?"
A brow narrowed at her, Shampoo literally bristling with fury. "Then
wait at door, or leave. This table reserved for Ranma!"
"Ranma, eh?" Ryoga said. "Then you definitely won't mind us sitting
there," he finished pushing his way past her.
Shampoo spun around. "What you mean by that?"
Ryoga said nothing, pulling out a chair and sat down. Ukyo joined
him.
"Very nice, Shampoo. I especially love the bonsai flower
arrangement," Ukyo said.
Shampoo was just about to tear into the couple, when Cologne's voice
cried out.
"Shampoo! I have three orders up and you haven't even delivered them.
Get your friends orders and get back to work!"
Gritting her teeth, Shampoo muttered something angrily to herself
turning away. She stopped long enough to mutter something to Mousse as he
passed. He looked at them, eyes narrowing slightly.
"My, my, a little bit testy tonight aren't we," Ryoga said. Ukyo
nodded, watching as Mousse made his way over to them.
He stood glaring at them silently for a moment. "So where's Ranma?"
he finally said.
That caught them off guard, Ukyo and Ryoga exchanging surprised looks.
"Why, is it important?" asked Ryoga.
"This table was reserved for him."
Mousse supporting Shampoo's pursuit of Ranma? Ukyo could not believe
she heard those word come from Mousse's lips. Maybe Ranma wasn't wrong after
all.
"Well if you must know, Mousse. He's--."
"Busy!" Ukyo quickly interrupted, cutting Ryoga off.
"Busy. Busy doing what?"
"Just busy," replied Ukyo.
Mousse didn't press the issue. He cut several dark glances between
them, adjusted his glasses, turned and abruptly left.
"What the hell?" muttered Ukyo.
"I'll say. He didn't even take our orders," said Ryoga.
She placed her head in her hands, unable to believe how naive her
companion could be.
"No! I mean Mousse. He acted like he approved of Ranma coming here
to meet Shampoo."
"Maybe he's wizened up and decided to let Ranma have her."
Ukyo smirked at Ryoga. "I don't think Mousse will ever give in to
that thought, Ryoga."
"Okay. So give me a better explanation then."
"I don't have one," replied Ukyo. She sat back to observe Mousse and
Shampoo standing in one of the isles. He was saying something to Shampoo; her
expression suddenly dropping in shocked astonishment.
"That witch is up to something," continued Ukyo. "I'm not going to
let her get away with it."
"Ah, some jealousy here," teased Ryoga. "Getting a little nervous,
Ukyo?"
"Can it, Ryoga," she snapped at him. Ryoga chuckled silently to
himself as Ukyo returned her attention back to the two. Shampoo was telling
Mousse something now, and from the way her head was moving it didn't look like
they were very pleasant words. Mousse gave her a slight nod and continued
waiting on the tables.
"Heads up, we're about to have company," Ukyo said.
Shampoo stalked steadily over to them, a dark gleam in her eyes. She
sat down.
"What you mean Ranma not coming?" she said.
"Ranma does not want to come down here," Ryoga answered.
"And why not!"
"Well quite frankly, Shampoo. Ranma thinks you're up to something."
"Yeah, something that might not be good for him," added Ukyo.
Shampoo hesitated, leaning back looking back and forth between them.
This was no good she thought. Was Ranma on to Doctor Marcus's plans? She had
to find out more before taking any further action.
"Why Ranma no trust Shampoo now?" she asked.
"It's got something to do with Kasumi," explained Ryoga. "Earlier she
kind'a kicked him out of the dojo to come see you. That made him paranoid."
"Ryoga!" exclaimed Ukyo.
"Well that's what I think it is."
"So he come see you. That mean he at your restaurant now," said
Shampoo.
"Ah Huh. Safe and sound with Akane," replied Ukyo.
This wasn't good, but at least Ranma was only aware of Kasumi and not
Doctor Marcus. Still, now that his guard was up it would be harder for them
to get him drugged and into the family.
Ryoga leaned towards her. "So Shampoo. . . . are you planning
something?" he asked.
"Bah! Shampoo not planning anything other than quiet meal with
husband."
"Oh, so then why isn't Mousse all choked up like he normally gets when
Ranma comes calling, eh?" questioned Ukyo.
"Mousse not care," replied Shampoo waving off the notion with a hand.
That didn't satisfy Ukyo though. She looked a Ryoga, giving him a
slight smirk to convey her skepticism. Shampoo suddenly stood up.
"You call Ranma, Ukyo," she demanded. "Tell him I not try to hurt
him."
"I don't think that's going to change his mind, Shampoo,"
Shampoo slammed her palms angrily on the table, leaning threateningly
towards her. "Call him. He not going to believe Shampoo. Call him!"
Several of the patrons around them paused to stare at the angry woman,
inching away from what appeared to be trouble.
"Calm down, Shampoo," Ryoga said patting her arm lightly. Shampoo
reigned in her anger, sitting back down.
"Okay. Up front, Shampoo. Are you and Kasumi plotting something
against Ranma?" continued Ryoga.
"No. I not speak to Kasumi in long time!"
"So there's no dark plans brewing, besides getting him alone."
"Yes, I just want to be alone with Ranma. He not have to be scared
of me,"
Ryoga clapped his hands together. "You see, Ukyo. There's nothing
going on except for Ranma's wild imagination. Let's go."
"Uh uhn," sounded Ukyo said shaking her head. "No way Shampoo. I'll
discount the Kasumi connection, but there is no way I'm going to let you be
alone with Ranma."
"Well Shampoo only made special meal for Ranma. Not enough for Ukyo."
"I can eat ramen. You better go ahead and put a fourth plate on this
table because this girl is not leaving."
"Fourth?"
"I'm sure Akane will be right behind him."
"Oh now this is getting good," Ryoga said retaking his seat. "Mind if
I stay and watch?"
"No, you both have to go!" growled Shampoo.
She stood waiting for Ukyo to get up, but by the way she sat staring
up at her it was not to be. Great-grandmother would certainly be mad if I
start fight in restaurant now, though Shampoo. So close, it looked like she'd
have to take Ukyo and Ryoga in order to get at Ranma. Well at least Ryoga was
on the list to be included in the family.
The angry look melted away, Shampoo smiling cheerfully.
"Okay, you stay, you stay," she said. "Shampoo being rude."
"I'll say," said Ukyo.
"I make it up too you. I know, I'll make you same meal I give to
Ranma. On the house!"
Ryoga and Ukyo traded looks, shrugging together.
"Okay," Ukyo replied. Shampoo smiled again, rushing off to get their
meals.
"Oh boy this is great. Two free meals in one day," commented Ryoga.
"Life is good."
"Maybe just a little bit too good for some people," Ukyo replied
suspicion still in her eyes She sat back tapping her chin in thought, gazing
towards the kitchen.
"Just a bit too good."

* * * * *

A pyre of flame shot skyward from the counter top grill, okonomiyaki
roasting into charred embers sizzling loudly from the heat. Ranma sat head
resting against an arm watching the sacrifice, humor clearly written on his
face. Several of the customers also watched enjoying this new addition of
entertainment for the restaurant.
Through the double doors behind the counter burst Akane, an
extinguisher in her hands. She charged it up and in a matter of minutes the
fire was quickly put out. Several of the patrons applauded wildly, others
laughing as she fanned away the smoke.
Ranma couldn't help but laugh as well. He got up and opened the front
doors to clear the air.
"Guess that just about closes out your cooking day," he said. Ranma
expected Akane to be at the counter, but instead she had gone over to one of
the far vacant tables sitting with her back to him.
"Akane?" he called to her. She remained silent, but Ranma could see
by the way her shoulders moved that she was crying. Ranma went to her.
"Akane, please don't cry," he said trying to soothe her sorrows.
Akane tried to stop, but couldn't. She felt like a fool, an unskilled
good for nothing idiot. "Ranma, maybe you should go and, and find another
girl!" she cried.
"Hey, hey," Ranma knelt pulling her into his arms. She hugged him
tight, crying into his chest. Gently he stroked her hair. "Calm down, Akane.
I don't want another girl," he said.
She looked up. "You don't?" she replied amidst her sniffles.
"No. Why would I want to do that?"
"Because I'm incapable of anything the other girls can do!"
He frowned. "So. You can't be like everyone else."
"Ranma I can't even cook. How am I going to feed us if I can't even
do that?"
"We'll manage. That's a minor thing."
Abruptly she pulled back, turning away from him. "Humph, well if it's
such a minor thing, why don't you like my cooking then?"
"Because I like life more."
She whipped around furiously, death in her eyes and Ranma burst out
laughing.
"Baka!" she shouted turning back around.
He pulled her close again. "I'm just teasing, Akane. Look so you
can't cook, sew, or keep a decent house. That's okay by me. Those things can
be worked on. I'm not complaining."
Slowly Akane settled down, thinking about what he said. This was a
Ranma she didn't know about and that intrigued her. All of her efforts seemed
to be finally paying off. Maybe there were something's she could do right
after all. Hesitantly she glanced back.
"You're not teasing me again, are you?" she asked.
Ranma smiled shaking his head. Akane sighed resting her head against
his chest.
"Feel better now?" he said.
"Wonderful," she replied.
"Good. Let's go see if we can repair the damages before Ukyo
returns."
Ranma let her go and stood up, but when he turned he found himself
staring straight into Ukyo face.
"Naaaagh!" he yelped drawing back.
Ukyo stood still as granite, the only movement was her eyes darting
around the restaurant. She smirked looking at Ranma.
"Akane?" she said referencing the burnt counter top.
"Uh. . . . yeah," he answered.
"Figures," she replied.
Ukyo leaped over the counter. Without any further words she began to
clean up the mess. Ranma was stunned.
"Ukyo. We'll be more than happy to repair all this." He said.
"Don't bother, Ranma," she answered. "I was expecting worse."
Ranma scratched the back of his head confused and astonished all in
one moment. He sat down at the counter.
"Okay, so what'd you find out?" he asked her.
"Yeah, and where's Ryoga?" added Akane.
"Ryoga had to go," Ukyo answered. "What we found out was that Ranma
here is suffering from an acute case of paranoia after all."
"What!" shouted Ranma.
Ukyo stopped cleaned for a moment. "It's true, sugar. Shampoo only
wanted to feed you what turned out to be a great meal."
"I take it then you guys ate it all."
"No. Shampoo still has your dish waiting for you. Now if you hurry,
she might forgive your stupid notions."
"Pissed off, huh?"
"Extremely."
Ranma smacked the countertop with a fist. "Damn, I didn't mean to
make her mad," he said.
"That a problem, sugar?"
"Yep. Next time she see's me she might try to take off my head."
"Not a chance, Ranma."
It looked to Ranma that maybe he did jump the gun, but to Akane
warning bells were ringing furiously in her mind.
"Ukyo, you want Ranma to go see Shampoo?" she asked.
"Of course. I think it's a wonderful idea."
Akane's brows furrowed together. This definitely was not right. Ukyo
had the hots for Ranma too, so why all of a sudden is she giving up.
"If you say it's safe, Ukyo then I believe it," Ranma said. Akane
pinched him on the arm. He flinched looking at her.
"We've got to be going," she said to him sternly. Ranma noticed the
slight nod of her head towards Ukyo, a brow raised questioningly. He did not
quite understand what she was getting at, but went along with her suggestion.
"Going to the Neko Hanten?" Ukyo asked as they got up.
"Yes," replied Akane.
"Well enjoy yourselves," she said with a cheery smile.
"Thanks for your help, Ukyo," said Ranma as they left the restaurant.
Her gaze remained on them as they walked down the street and around
the corner. Slowly the broad smile faded, Ukyo sneering contemptuously. She
was no fool, that bitch Akane was going to lead Ranma away from Shampoo,
upsetting all their plans. Somehow, Akane Tendo had to be taken out of the
equation on a permanent basis. First things first though. She'd better call
Shampoo and tell her the bad news. Kasumi would be furious, but at least
there would still be some time left for another attempt.
"Excuse me," a man at the counter called. "Could I get some service
here?"
Ukyo spun around. "No. Get out, we're closed!" She glanced around
at the other customers. "All of you. OUT!"
A flurry of bodies quickly fled through the nearest doors. Ukyo
locked up, then went in the back to call Shampoo. . .

* * * * *

"She's was lying," Akane said to Ranma. Instead of going to The Neko
Hanten, they returned to the park to try and sort out this situation. Ranma
lay stretched out on the bench, his head resting on her lap.
"You think so?" he replied.
"It was just like Kasumi. A sudden change in alignments."
"Yeah, and Ryoga disappearing like he did. Not right at all."
Akane gasped, worry filling her eyes. "Gosh, I hope nothings happened
to him," she said.
"Unless he took a wrong turn, I would suspect Ryoga stayed at the Neko
Hanten to help Shampoo with whatever she's got planned."
"Ryoga? You can't be serious, Ranma."
"Hey, he's got a motive. Any opportunity to get you away from me is
surely an opportunity Ryoga wouldn't pass up."
That possibility existed Akane had to admit. Setting Ranma up wasn't
beyond Ryoga, he'd done it before in the past. That left them back where they
started, and she was fresh out of ideas.
"So what do we do now, Ranma?"
Ranma sighed. The sun set a long time ago, and it was too late to be
running around looking for answers. He figured their best bet was to go back
home and sleep on it. Akane agreed.
"You know Ranma, this is starting to scare me," she said.
"I don't blame you. All this mystery is getting me uptight."
Akane paused a moment. "Ranma, I don't want to sleep alone."
He looked up. "Are you that scared?" he asked. She nodded. "Well if
you're that scared, why don't you sleep in Nabiki's room tonight."
"I was thinking of you sleeping in mine."
Ranma started, mouth dropping open. Akane smirked at him.
"Get your mind out the gutter," she said rapping him on the forehead.
"As Ranko, silly."
"Oh."
He actually looked disappointed, Akane mused. She smiled down at him,
brushing back the hair from his face.
"I'm not ready to go that far. . . . yet," she said mischievously.
Ranma smiled, getting up from the bench. Hand in hand, they headed
back to the dojo.
Up in the trees a figure hid in the shadows, watching them go. When
they were gone, the figure leaped down from the trees and followed. . .

* * * * *

"What do you mean you failed!" Kasumi growled angrily at Shampoo over
the phone. Shampoo recounted tonight's happenings at the Neko Hanten, and the
subsequent call from Ukyo thereafter. Kasumi could not believe her ears.
Again Ranma eluded them, and again all because of Akane. Bad enough he was
starting to get suspicious, her meddling only prolonged what should have been
over a long time ago.
"Damn it, Damn it!" she cursed hitting the wall with her fist.
Shampoo began frantically to defend herself.
"No, no, Shampoo, I'm not mad at you. This was not your fault. Part
of it's mine. Look, how much of the sap do you have left? None! Okay,
tomorrow morning you and Mousse go to the warehouse and help the Doctor
cultivate more."
She paused as Shampoo asked her what to do about her grandmother.
"Tell her you have to run errands. Tell her you quit. Tell her anything, but
get to the warehouse, understand?"
Shampoo acknowledged and hung up.
Kasumi returned the receiver in it's cradle, letting out a long sigh.
Hopefully Nabiki had better luck, otherwise tomorrow would be a very long and
busy day. She shook her head and started back to the living room, when she
noticed Happosai standing at the patio door. Obviously he'd been there long
enough to hear most of the conversation.
"Happosai!" she said smiling.
"Eh?" he drawled drawing his pipe.
"Ah ha ha. What are you doing here?"
Happosai let out a small puff of smoke, eyeing her curiously.
"Getting ready to go out on my usual nightly raid, dear girl." He set his
empty sack on the floor, walking up to her.
"Who were you speaking to with such harsh language, Kasumi?" he asked.
Kasumi feigned embarrassment, placing a hand to her cheek. "So silly
of me. I was talking to Shampoo. She was supposed to bring me something from
the store, but she forgot. I swear that girl just works to hard."
"I see," Happosai replied, but the doubt was still written in his
eyes. "Seen Akane or Ranma?" he asked changing the subject.
"No, they're not home yet."
"Hm, excellent. Now's my chance to visit Akane's dresser and take my
fill," he muttered to himself.
"I'm off Kasumi," Happosai said grabbing his sack. He stopped at the
door looking back over his shoulder. "But I'll be talking to you later."
He ran out of sight.
Kasumi could only frown with frustration, hoping that tomorrow would
bring her better success.

* * * * *

Doctor Marcus listened to Kasumi as she updated him on Ranma's status,
jaws tight as his anger increased. Never before had one person given him so
much trouble; Saotome indeed had the luck of a cat.
"This is starting to annoy me, Kasumi," he said to her. "I want you
to concentrate on giving Ranma the sap. Nothing else matters! We have to
finish up by tomorrow afternoon if my plans are to succeed. Is that
understood?"
Kasumi acknowledged, telling her that her supply of the Ginsukou sap
was gone thanks to Akane's interference.
"I'll send Nabiki with another vial, but that is it! Don't fail me or
you will pay dearly."
He slammed the receiver down, thinking briefly about the situation.
Marcus turned around to face the four people kneeling on one knee before him.
"Nabiki!" he snapped. Nabiki's head snapped up awaiting his words.
"Your sister is having a hard time cornering Ranma Saotome. I want you to
dedicate yourself too his seduction into the family."
"Yes, Doctor Marcus," she answered.
"This sister of yours, Akane is it not? She is part of the problem.
See if you can eliminate that."
"Do you want her killed?" Nabiki asked.
"Only if there is no other way around it," replied Marcus. He didn't
like the idea of killing the girl, that might draw unwanted outside attention,
but if it had to be then there were plenty of people under his control to take
the blame.
Marcus started walking down the line, looking over each of his new
family members. Two Kuno's, unexpected but not unfavorable, and their
manservant to boot. This will make his family strong.
"Well done, Nabiki," he said. "You work fast. I like that."
"Thank you, Doctor Marcus."
He smiled stepping back. "Stand up, all of you," he said. They stood
up at attention. Marcus glanced down at the bokuto tucked into the sash of
Tatewaki's robes.
"Do you have a regular sword, Kuno."
"Of course," Tatewaki answered.
"Then bring it with you tomorrow. You too, ninja."
Sasuke nodded.
Marcus looked over Kodachi. "I must admit you young girls are getting
better looking every year," he said walking slowly around her. "Does she have
any skills, Nabiki?"
"'Dirty Deeds', is her middle name."
"Really? Then she too will assist in my plans."
Marcus stepped back looking them over one last time. "Tomorrow
afternoon, I want you all to return here. Be ready to travel. We have a lot
to cover and time is growing short."
"Yes, Doctor Marcus," they said in unison.
"Nabiki, take one of new batches to your sister, and tell her to be
here as well."
"Are we to forget about Ranma then?" she asked.
"If we must."
"Not a very wise move, Doctor Marcus."
Marcus started. He lashed out slapping Nabiki hard across the face
and she staggered back.
"I will not tolerate insolence, Nabiki Tendo!" he shouted. "You may
be smart, but do not ever, ever question my orders. Is that clear?"
Nabiki placed a hand to her face, nodding her head. "I'm sorry,
Doctor Marcus."
"Fine. Now get out of here. All of you."
He watched them go, Nabiki taking one of the vials from a stand on the
table. Marcus thought about what she said, troubled by a feeling of dread
that she might have been right about her assessment. If the worst were to
come, Ranma Saotome would have to be taken by force before they left for
Shinjuku. If he resisted, then. . . .
He let the notion trail off, heading back to the greenhouse to
continue his work.


Chapter Eight

A hand shook Akane's shoulder; she let out a low murmur pulling the
covers tighter around her. Another hard shake brought her back to reality,
eyes parting slowly as she looked up. Ranko sat next to her wondering if
she'd have to do something more drastic to get this woman going.
"Mmm, Ranko," muttered Akane sitting up. It was still dark, Akane
rubbing her eyes to clear them of the nights sleep. She glanced over at the
clock noting the time.
Five o'clock.
"Ranko--," she said.
"Shhh!" Ranko replied placing a finger to her lips. Akane leaned
closer.
"Do you know what time it is?" she whispered.
"Yes I do. Get up and get your things, we're leaving."
"Leaving. At this time of the morning. Why?"
"I'll tell you later. Right now we've got to go," Ranko replied.
Akane grumbled angrily to herself as she crawled out of her futon bed.
She started taking off her pajama top, but Ranko stopped her.
"We can clean up at the school gym," she said.
"What's the hurry?"
"I want to be out of here before Kasumi gets up."
It became cleared to Akane now, remembering now what happened
yesterday. Briskly the two gathered their school clothes and tip toed down
the steps out into the morning air.
"Geesh it's cold," Ranko said pulling on a coat over her nightgown.
"Well this is your idea, and you're going to buy me breakfast," Akane
replied.
"Nag, nag, nag. Come on, lets get out of here."

* * * * *

Kasumi stirred the mixture of hot tea and Ginsukou root sap in a small
pot on the stove, pouring the finished product into two glasses. There one
for Ranma, and a back up just in case luck turned sour again, she thought with
a smile. Suddenly the door to the kitchen opened, Soun walking in with a deep
yawn.
"Good morning, Kasumi," he said.
"Morning, daddy," she answered coldly.
Soun stared at his child. Still upset over yesterdays debacle, he
deduced. To early in the morning for fighting, Soun let it pass. He spotted
the glasses of tea on the table.
"Ah, something to warm up the insides," he said reaching for one.
Instantly Kasumi pulled them out of reach.
"They're not for you," she said.
"What? Then who are they for?"
"Ranma."
"Both glasses?"
"And Akane," she quickly added.
Now Soun was stating to get angry. "Kasumi, as your father I must say
you have been acting very strangely the last few days. Snapping at me and
Akane like we were outcast. Catering to Ranma like he was the only thing that
mattered. What is wrong with you?"
"Nothing is the matter with me, Father. I've told you that several
times, why can't you believe me!"
"Because your actions tell me differently."
Kasumi turned away from him, trying hard not to loose her control
altogether. Soun walked up behind her concerned about his eldest daughter.
"Kasumi. Please, talk to me. Is it because you miss Doctor Tofu?"
"No!" Kasumi took a small breath, rounding on him. "Daddy, please.
I'm perfectly all right. Don't worry yourself , you'll only grow gray hairs."
Soun laughed. "I'm doing that now, Kasumi."
He looked deep into her eyes trying to believe her words. There still
was a hint of trouble he sensed, but held his tongue.
"Okay," Soun said sitting down. "So, Nabiki tells me you've gotten a
job with Mister Marcus. How much is he paying you?"
She would say something like that, Kasumi thought. A good cover, but
now her father was curious and that might lead to trouble. Fortunately for
her Nabiki walked in dressed in her school uniform.
"Good morning," she said.
"Morning Nabiki," replied Soun. "You're up early?"
Nabiki opened the refrigerator peering inside. "Wanted to get a head
start on things," she said. "Kasumi, have you made lunches yet?"
"No, I was just about to go and wake up Ranma."
A muffled yawn sounded, Genma lazily walking in. He stretched his
arms and sat down next to Soun.
"Did I hear you say something about Ranma?" he asked.
"Yes. Is he awake?"
"Oh he's been awake. In fact he's not here."
Nabiki jerked up right, slamming the refrigerator door shut. She
turned around her surprise reflected on Kasumi's face as well.
"What!" exclaimed Kasumi.
"He and Akane left early this morning. I heard them say something
about the gym."
The two women exchanged looks. Kasumi gave Nabiki a slight nod
towards the door.
"I've got to run," Nabiki said hurrying out the kitchen.
"But you haven't eaten breakfast yet," Soun called after her, but she
was out the door and through the courtyard before he could catch her.
"Strange," muttered Genma.
Stranger things have happened in the dojo, but Soun never saw anything
like this. Both his daughters that concerned over Ranma? Suspicion grew in
his mind again, questions rising that demanded answers.
"Kasumi, would it be possible for you to leave an address or phone
number where you can be reached?"
Kasumi looked perplexed, eyes blinking rapidly as she tried to think
up an excuse.
"Well. . . . Doctor Marcus really does not want anyone to know where
we are. His work is very secret."
"Marketing produce is secret?" questioned Genma.
"Oh yes! Can you imagine what damages would befall his company if a
rival organization managed to steal his work?"
Soun wasn't satisfied. "I can understand that, but I'm sure he would
not mind if your father knew where you were."
"Daddy--."
"No buts, Kasumi. In fact, I'd like to see what you are doing."
"After breakfast, Tendo," suggested Genma.
Soun smacked his lips. "Yes. You are still cooking for us, aren't
you Kasumi?"
Kasumi barely hid her displeasure with him, a feeling of dread passing
through her body. "Of, of course, daddy," she managed to say.
"Then I don't suppose that you'd mind if Genma and I partake in that
tea you made. Would be a waste to throw it out.
Kasumi looked back at the two glasses on the counter top. A smile
slowly broke across her face. Okay, old man. You asked for it, she thought
picking them up.
"Help yourself, Daddy. You too, Mister Saotome," she replied handing
them over.
"Why thank you, Kasumi," Genma said taking a swallow.
"Not a problem. Have as much as you'd like. . . ."

* * * * *

Maybe getting up so early wasn't such a good idea after all; Ranma
barely able to concentrate on the lesson being taught. He yawned stretching
his arms wide.
"Yes, mister Saotome?" Hinako Ninomiya, his teacher asked pausing from
her lecture.
"Uh, nothing, sensei," he quickly responded. "I was just trying to
stay awake."
Hinako eyed him skeptically. "I see," she said and continued on.
Ranma was glad she did not feel like sparing at that moment. In his
current shape, she'd might beat him, and that he would not allow. Glancing
over his shoulder, Ranma noticed that Akane too was having a hard time staying
awake. She was virtually asleep, leaning against an arm eyes half shut.
Akane noticed him and frowned. Thanks a lot, she mouthed to him. He shrugged
looking forwards again.
Time seemed to slow down to a crawl, Miss Ninomiya's voice fading into
a distant buzz. Ranma shook his head fighting the drowse overcoming him. He
looked out the window next to his desk, trying to draw in some fresh air. Not
much help, the sun's rays heating the air only made things worse. Ranma was
about to look away when his eyes caught movement among the branches in one of
the trees. He narrowed an eye, straining to get a better look, but the figure
was well concealed in the shadows preventing an identification.
His senses suddenly came alert, all thoughts of sleep passing as
concern filled his mind. He blinked, rubbed his eyes again then leaned a bit
closer to the window. A gust of wind caught the leaves allowing some light
to penetrate the canopy of branches. Ranma's brows shot up as he got a brief
look at who was there.
"Ryoga?" he muttered.
Ryoga noticed him then, realizing then that his position had been
exposed. Their eyes met, and if it weren't for the returning darkness, Ranma
could have sworn that he pointed at him before leaping away out of sight.
"Something interesting you out there, Ranma Saotome?" Miss Ninomiya's
voice said breaking his stare. She was standing right next to his desk,
twirling a 5 yen coin threateningly between her fingers. Ranma shot to his
feet.
"No, sensei! I mean. . . . I thought I saw something out in the
trees."
Hinako looked out the window, seeing nothing but a black raven perched
on a branch. She smirked.
"Nothing but your wandering mind, Saotome."
"No really, there was somebody out in the trees. I swear!"
Some of his classmates snickered around him; Akane biting her lower
lip nervously. This meant trouble no matter if she believed him or not.
"You just never get enough, do you Ranma?" Hinako continued.
He knew what that meant.
Closing his books, Ranma placed them inside the desk. "I know the
drill," he sighed heading for the doors.

* * * * *

Lunch time came, but Ranma wasn't very hungry at the moment. He and
Akane walked down the school halls, discussing their current predicament.
Ryoga's appearance only emphasized the fact that they were not out of trouble
yet.
"Ranma, maybe Ryoga was just calling you out as usual," Akane said.
She didn't believe her words at all.
"No. There was something different about the way he was looking at
me. I can't place it, but I know it wasn't the Ryoga I knew."
"Well we can't keep running like this. Something's got to give, and
from the way it looks it's going to be us!"
Akane was right. It was time to get some answers and clear up this
mystery once and for all. Thinking a moment, Ranma asked her if she'd seen
Ukyo in class. She said no, sending him into thought once more.
"Ukyo, Ryoga, Shampoo, Mousse and Kasumi. I just can't see the
connection." he finally said. Ranma suddenly came to a stop turning to Akane.
"We've got to cut class this afternoon,"
"What, are you crazy?"
"No. Look you want answers and so do I. I'm going back to Ukyo's,
and if need be, the dojo and get some. Are you with me?"
Akane paused briefly, then hesitantly nodded her head. "I just don't
like the idea of meeting up with all of them by ourselves," she said.
"Kasumi, okay, but Mousse, Shampoo, Ukyo and Ryoga? That's a force to be
reckoned with."
"Yeah. Is quite scary. I'm not looking for a fight, but I'd feel
comfortable with some help too."
"What about Kuno?" suggested Akane.
"Good idea. Why don't you go and find Gosunkugi."
"Gosunkugi?"
"He's not totally helpless. I'm going to see if I can find Kuno and
Tsubasa. Meet me behind the volleyball courts in ten minutes."
Ranma kissed her quickly on the cheek, rushing off to find his
friends. She stood placing a hand to her face, then smiled as she went in
search of Gosunkugi.

* * * * *

It wasn't hard to find Hikaru, lurking about in the back of the school
auditorium lusting over pictures of Akane. Nor was it hard for her to
convince him to help them with their situation. Together they stood near the
volleyball courts waiting for Ranma to show.
Gosunkugi stood admiring Akane, hands clasped tight to his mouth
unable to speak. He couldn't believe he was actually standing next to the
woman of his dreams, alone without Ranma at her bequest! This was a dream
come true for him. His knees knocked nervously, breath staggered and short.
Akane felt his unearthly gaze upon her.
Gosh, I am actually standing here with Gosunkugi, she thought. "Will
you stop staring at me like that, Hikaru!"
"Oh, Akane," he exclaimed dropping to her feet. "You've spoken to me
again!"
She stared down at him shirking back slightly. I just don't believe
Ranma wanted him along, she thought.
Footsteps sounded, both them turning to see Ranma running towards
them, Tsubasa close behind him.
"Get up, Hikaru," Akane said pulling him to his feet.
Ranma and Tsubasa came to a stop, pausing briefly to catch their
breaths. Akane looked past them. "Where's Kuno?" she asked.
Ranma looked up. "I went to his class, but his teacher said that he
wasn't here this morning."
"Not here? I don't remember him saying he was sick or anything.
Wonder what happened?"
"Think that's strange, wait till I tell you this," continued Ranma.
"I looked for Nabiki, but some of her friends say she left the campus."
"Nabiki left?"
"And from what they say, she left with Ryoga."
Akane could not believe it. Nabiki and Ryoga together! To her that
meant that whatever was going on, she had something to do with it as well.
Was her whole family plotting against Ranma?
"Ranma, let's get back to the Dojo and see Kasumi," she said.
"Hey!" Tsubasa exclaimed. "I said I'd come with you Ranma because
something's happened to Ukyo, but you never told me what we're about to do.
I'd like to know what's going on."
"We'll tell you on the way, Kureni," Ranma answered him. "But we've
got to move fast. Oh, and Tsubasa."
"Yes, Ranma?"
"You got some pants here? I don't think that dress is going to be
very practical for you if things start to get ugly."
"Ugly. Are we expecting a fight?"
Ranma said nothing, giving him a serious look before leading them off
towards the dojo. . . .

* * * * *

After stopping long enough for Tsubasa to change, the four were
walking briskly down the streets of Nerima back to the Tendo dojo. Ranma led
the way, Akane at his side trying to keep up with him. He had a determined
look in his eyes, an almost angry gaze that made her fear for what he might
do. She'd seen him mad, but not ever like this before.
"Ranma, slow down," Akane said.
Ranma was in no mood for waiting. "No way, Akane. Kasumi has a lot
to explain right now."
"Going at her like this will not help. You'll do nothing but make her
angry, and then she won't tell us anything!"
"She's going to talk all right!"
"Oh what are you going to do. Twist her arm?"
That brought some of the steam out of him. He slowed his pace a bit.
"I know you're mad, Ranma," continued Akane. She placed a hand on his
arm. "She's still my sister no matter what's going on."
He could see the worry in her eyes. Letting out a sigh, Ranma nodded.
"Okay. You talk to her then."
They rounded a corner, only a few blocks away from the dojo. Suddenly
Ranma spread out his arms, forcing them back.
"Ranma, what's--," Tsubasa started to say, but Ranma told him to be
quiet.
Slowly, he peeked around the corner watching the familiar figure
walking up the other side of the narrow street. It was Kasumi, and she looked
to be in some sort of hurry. She reached the next corner and turned out of
view.
"Where is she going?" Akane said.
"That's not the way to the grocery store so we can safely cancel that
out," Ranma replied.
"Well if we're going to find out what's going on, I suggest we follow
her before she get too far ahead," added Tsubasa.
They ran across the street. Keeping a discreet distance behind her,
the four followed for another twenty minutes. The route Kasumi took finally
lead them to a large warehouse near the Kanda river. She passed through the
electronic gates, the foursome watching closely from a side street not far
away.
"Seems she was expected," said Gosunkugi.
"By who though?" said Ranma. He looked over the place, noting the
several surveillance cameras situated at each corner of the surrounding walls.
He spotted more mounted on the main building.
"Place is guarded like a fortress."
"How are we going to get in?" asked Tsubasa.
"You mean like break in?" Akane said. "I do believe that's against
the law, Kureni."
"We could always just buzz the buzzer," suggested Gosunkugi.
"Yeah that would be smart," Ranma said sarcastically. "Walk into who
knows what. Right!"
"You have a better plan?" replied Akane.
Ranma was thinking when Tsubasa tapped him on the shoulder. He
pointed to a dark car rolling up the street, and they stepped back into the
shadows. It came to a stop in front of the gate; Tatewaki, Kodachi, Sasuke
and much to everyone's surprise, Nabiki climbing out. Tatewaki motioned the
driver off as the gate opened for them.
"Any doubts about Nabiki's involvement now?" Ranma said to Akane. She
didn't answer him, stunned.
"We're wasting time, Ranma," said Tsubasa. "If they're here, then
Ukyo's probably in there as well. Let's figure out a way to get in!"
"I'm thinking, I'm thinking guys!" he replied.
Scaling the wall would be the first obstacle, but that would be risky
with those camera's sweeping the area. Whatever lie beyond that would have to
be dealt with when the time came. If there were just a way to get across
without being spotted.
"Ranma," Gosunkugi called. "I think I know how we can get in."
"You do?"
Hikaru pointed up to the power lines crossing the street above them.
It was perfect, just high enough to be out of the security cameras field of
vision.
"Great idea, Gosunkugi!"
"What?" exclaimed Akane. "Ranma, those are power lines. I don't feel
like getting a cheap frizz job done to my hair. Besides, somebody might see
us."
"Most of these buildings are for storage, Akane," Gosunkugi pointed
out to her. "Not many people around to see anything, and the lines are
insulated"
"I still don't like breaking into this place,"
"It's not like we're stealing anything, Akane," Ranma said. "Do you
want answers?"
"Yes."
He smiled glancing up at the lines. Reluctantly Akane went along with
the plan. Meanwhile, Tsubasa had traced the power lines back to a pole around
the corner. He called, motioning for them to get a move on.
"Ranma. What if we're caught?" Akane asked. "Do we fight?"
"Depends, Akane," he replied. "All depends on what we find. . . ."

* * * * *

The beeper on Shampoo's belt screamed loudly for attention,
interrupting Renon Marcus as he laid out his plans to the people around him.
Angrily he paused, glaring sharply at her. Shampoo flinched, bowing her head
deeper towards the floor.
Marcus drew out his cellular phone handing it to her.
"Answer that!" he ordered her. "Get rid of whoever it is, and then
turn that damn thing off!"
Shampoo quickly stood up stepping away from the others. Dialing the
number, she waited for the connection, then spoke into the receiver.
"Hello," she said.
"SHAMPOO!" a voice cried loud enough for everyone to hear. "Where are
you and Mousse?"
"Great-grandmother?"
"Who else! Now where are you and Mousse, and why aren't you here
helping me prepare the restaurant for this evening?"
Shampoo could feel the burn from Renon's eyes on her, his mounting
displeasure filling the air.
"Great-grandmother, I must go. Shampoo is busy right now."
"Busy? What do you mean busy. Child, you have an obligation here and
that is where you should be!"
"I know, great-grandmother, but--."
"No buts, Shampoo! Get your silly tail back here, and bring Mousse
with you!"
Cologne slammed the phone down, pricking Shampoo's ear. She stared at
the cell phone for a moment then retook her place on the floor.
"Trouble?" asked Marcus as she handed it back to him.
"Yes. Great-grandmother want Shampoo and Mousse back at Neko Hanten
now."
"Bah! She can't do us any harm."
"I have to differ with you, Doctor Marcus," Mousse said. "Cologne is
not one to be taken lightly."
"And why is this?"
"She very powerful and wise," explained Shampoo. "If we do not return
to restaurant, she will hunt us down."
"I've seen her do some incredible things, Doctor Marcus," added
Nabiki. "Having a three hundred year old grandmother stalking us is a bad
thing."
Marcus's brows rose up. "Three hundred years old! Are you telling me
she is a sage?"
"That is good description," replied Shampoo.
"That is not good!" Marcus snapped. He scratched his head nervously,
thinking as he paced in front of them. A fine time to find this out. There
was too much at stake for any new distractions, and this sage certainly knew
about the Ginsukou root. If she did come snooping around she might discover
what he was planning and try to stop them.
"Shampoo, Mousse, you will return to your restaurant after I've
completed your briefing. I want you to give this 'Cologne' a dose of the sap,
then give her instructions to forget about you completely."
"And what if she resist?" asked Mousse.
Marcus frowned.
"If that happens. . . . kill her."

* * * * *

Careful not to step on any metal leads, Ranma carefully crossed over
the powerline to the warehouse; Akane held tight in his arms. Tsubasa and
Gosunkugi were all ready across, searching for a way down into the place.
Ranma put Akane down and looked around.
A stairwell lead down into the second floor, and not far from that a
ladder reaching to the ground. Tsubasa tested the door, finding it unlocked.
"Okay, we're here. What now?" he asked Ranma.
"We split up," he replied.
"Sun T'zu would kill you," Gosunkugi said. "Dividing your force
before an unknown opponent,"
"This is not a battle, Hikaru. Anyway, I think it'd be for the best
if we do. That way they can't get us all if there is a need for somebody to
go and get help."
"Make sense," said Tsubasa. "Okay, Gosunkugi and I will search the
upper floor."
"I wanted to go with Akane," complained Gosunkugi.
"Stop it." Tsubasa opened the door, taking Hikaru by one arm. "See
you guys back here in twenty, unless something happens."
"Be careful, guys," Akane said.
Tsubasa flashed a thumb up, pulling Gosunkugi down the steps.

* * * * *

The halls were dark as Tsubasa and Gosunkugi moved cautiously along
watching out for their friends. Tsubasa held the lead, checking every room he
came across. Suddenly from ahead, he heard the low murmur of voices, followed
by footsteps. They darted into the nearest office, hunkering down low behind
a desk as the voices drew closer.
"The security guards will be your responsibility, Kodachi," he heard a
stranger's voice say. Kodachi's insidious laugh sent a chill through them
both.
"Security Guards?" whispered Gosunkugi. "Kureni, it sounds like the
gang is involved with a heist of some kind."
"Where do you get these ideas?" Tsubasa replied. "Heist. Sheesh! Be
quiet will you."
The stranger continued. "Tatewaki, Ryoga, you will secure our access
and exit into the building. Shampoo, Ukyo, I leave it to you to infiltrate
the staff members. Be swift, but clean. Clear?"
The mention of Ukyo's name made Tsubasa'a eyes go wide. Inching up,
he peered over the desk trying to see where she was at. Standing at the door
with his back to them stood Ryoga. Immediately he ducked back down. Ryoga,
he mouthed to Hikaru. Gosunkugi grimaced pressing closer to the floor. In
his attempt, he backed up against the desk. It creaked lightly; Tsubasa
grabbing a leg to keep it from moving any further. He raised a hands
threatening to smack Gosunkugi, then chanced another look. Ryoga hadn't
moved, but his head was turned slightly to one side. A tense moment passed,
then Ryoga moved on down the hall.
After a few minutes, their voices faded off. Kureni stood up.
"Idiot!" he growled at Hikaru. "You all most got us caught."
"Sorry," Gosunkugi replied as he stood.
They went to the door, positioning themselves to either side. The
hall looked clear, Tsubasa nodding to Gosunkugi. Together they stepped out,
but the gang had disappeared. It wasn't right, but Tsubasa did not want to
stick around to find out where they went.
"Where to now?" whispered Gosunkugi.
Kureni pointed ahead towards the room at the end of the hall. Inside
they found what appeared to be some blueprints tacked up on the far wall, a
small scale model on the table just below it. Gosunkugi and Tsubasa traded
confused looks, moving in. Off to one side Hikaru noticed a computer desk,
sitting down in front of the monitor. Displayed were what appeared to be some
schedules or itineraries, and a list of names.
"What's that?" asked Tsubasa.
"I dunno right off hand, but I'd say that the gang is planning some
sort of party."
"Party, eh? Where and what's the occasion?"
"Doesn't say. I'll have to do some searching."
"Make it fast. I don't want to stay here too long."
As Gosunkugi started exploring the files, Tsubasa stood studying the
blueprints and model. I've seen this place before, he thought trying to
remember. It eluded him for the moment, then Hikaru called to him.
"Hey, Tsubasa, this must be some bash they're planning."
"Why's that?"
"This list includes the Prime Minister, the Emperor and several
Ambassadors,"
Shock lit Tsubasa'a face. "That's it!" he exclaimed turning back to
the blueprints. "This is the Parliament building, and that's the Prime
Ministers Office. What the hell is going on here?"
Gosunkugi started to answer, when a hand suddenly covered his mouth,
another grabbing an arm twisting it up behind him.
Tsubasa tried to make some sort of sense out of all this. Had Ukyo
made a big score with her catering business, and if so why keep it such a
secret from Ranma? Surely she'd want him to know. Kasumi and Nabiki made
sense to; the foremost cook and wily business woman almost guaranteed success.
No, there were still to many holes to fill, especially the comment about
guards and exits by that mystery man.
"Gosunkugi, I've just had a dark thought," he said turning. "You
don't think--, Uh oh."
Gosunkugi struggled unsuccessfully in Mousse's tight grip, Kuno,
Sasuke, and Ryoga arrayed in front of him. He inched back, swallowing hard as
the three closed in . . .

* * * * *

Finding an open window, Akane and Ranma crawled into the lower part of
the warehouse, standing in the open expanse looking around. Part of the area
had been partitioned off by wide glass panels, a work area complete with
laboratory equipment not far from that.
"Wow," said Ranma amazed by all the high tech machinery on display.
While he explored, Akane moved over to one of the glass panels. It was fogged
over, water droplets beading up on it's surface. She wiped a section away
with a sleeve, but that did no good.
"Ranma," she called. Ranma broke from his search joining her. "It's
a greenhouse," she said.
He frowned looking over the panels. Whatever was being grown inside
must need plenty of heat. Akane tugged lightly on his arm, pointing to a
door.
"What's this?" Ranma said spotting a clipboard hanging on a hook next
to it. He read the coversheet to Akane.
"08:30, greenhouse temperature steady at 38 degrees Celsius."
"Thirty-eight degrees!" Akane said. "That's tropical jungle
temperature."
Ranma paused. He looked up sniffing the air. "You smell that?"
Akane took a sniff, nothing unusual touching her senses.
"It's coming from over here," he continued walking back towards the
work area. Once away from the greenhouse, Akane picked up what he was
smelling.
"Cherry Blossoms," she said.
"That's that wonderful smell from Kasumi's cooking the night she got
angry at us for going out."
Akane remembered now. That same sweet smell permeated the air she
realized. Who was she cooking for here, became her next question. Ranma
called to her. He stood before some kind of pressure cooker, peering into a
stainless steel pot. She looked in, letting out a gasp.
"It's that brown stuff Kasumi had on the stove," she told him. Indeed
it was the same, only thicker in consistency. Ranma found a spoon on the
counter and dipped it in. Together they stared at the gooey syrup, looks of
disgust on their faces.
"Yuck, looks like. . . . blood," Akane said.
"For such a great smell, this could kill an appetite right quick,"
added Ranma. He dipped a finger into it, bringing it towards his mouth.
"No, Ranma!" exclaimed Akane forcing his hand away.
"I'm just going to taste it, Akane," he said.
"I don't care. Something tells me this stuff is what's making the
others act so strange."
"What?"
"Think about it. A warehouse, processing equipment, some strange
plant growing in that greenhouse. Kasumi brought this home with the intent of
feeding it to you. How she got it is still a mystery, but she was hell bent
on getting you to try it."
"Yeah," replied Ranma. "That glass of tea that morning, and the
Yakitori--."
"Which you gave to Mousse."
Ranma shuddered, quickly wiping the stuff from his hand. It seemed
logical, Mousse probably shared that lunch with Shampoo. Ukyo and Ryoga, they
too had dinner at the Neko Hanten. But why Kasumi. Surely she couldn't think
up all this alone.
"That old guy," he said snapping his fingers.
"What old guy?"
"He was at the dojo with Kasumi. Pop said something about him helping
her make dinner. I'll bet he's responsible for what's happened to Kasumi and
the others."
This whole situation was bad to Ranma. He wasn't sure what his
intentions were, but it couldn't be good for anyone. Whatever, Ranma knew
that he had to be stopped.
"Akane, we're going to dump this stuff," he said.
"What good will that do? All he has to do is make more."
They looked at each other, then to the greenhouse.
"Oh, do we have too, Ranma?"
"Yes," he replied.
Ranma girded himself taking the knob in his hand. Akane hid behind
him, fearing of what they might find. They walked inside.
A light hum from an evaporator filled the air. At the center of the
greenhouse, Ranma saw five dark shapes similar to the bookshelves in the
school library. A closer examination revealed several of the shelves were
partitioned off, each cubicle containing a potted plant of the likes they'd
never seen.
"Looks like a sea urchin with a bad case of the wilts," commented
Ranma. He looked down the aisle, noting the series of thermometers on each
case. "I'm going to check the others."
"Ranma don't you leave me here alone!" said Akane fearfully.
"There's nothing to be afraid of, Akane." he replied.
Akane nervously looked around as Ranma went to the next case down.
Her gaze returned to the strange plants, and she hesitantly moved closer to
one of the cubicles. Odd, she thought examining the strands of narrow dark
green-white leaves. Cautiously Akane reached out and spread them, exposing a
funny looking center stalk projecting up from the soil bed. Her eyes were
playing tricks on her. She could have sworn that it somehow flinched when she
parted the leaves. And what were those dark lines running down the stalk?
Curiosity overrode Akane's fear, and with a trembling hand reached out
touching the stalk. Her resultant squeal brought Ranma running.
"Akane!" he cried. She stood pressed back against the case across the
aisle, her eyes wide with terror. In a flash she ran over hugging him.
"Ranma, Ranma, let's get out of here!"
"What happened?"
Akane looked up. "I, I, I touched one of those plants."
"And?"
"It had a pulse, Ranma."
He smirked. "Stay here," said Ranma going back to the case.
Looking over the plant, Ranma searched for any signs of movement, but
there was none. He looked back at Akane, pointing to it confused. Her head
nodded rapidly up and down. Ranma shrugged staring at it again. He finally
parted the leaves studying the stalk. The dark lines seemed to be much fuller
now; Ranma able to see the fluid inside moving slowly along the vain-like
canals.
Ranma looked around for something sharp, but nothing was with in his
reach. "Akane, find a knife," he said. Akane went back outside, quickly
returning with a surgical scalpel.
He placed the tip on the surface of the stalk, and to his surprise the
plant actually shuddered lightly. That sent a chill through his body, but
Ranma continued cutting one of the dark veins. A brief squeak emanated from
the plant, then a glob of dark brown-red sap began to flow down the side.
Akane and Ranma both grimaced as it collected on the dirt, soaking in like
water being absorbed by a sponge.
"Ranma, let's go," pleaded Akane.
"We can't go, Akane," he answered her.
"Why not? This is giving me the creeps. Let's go find Hikaru and
Kureni and get out of here!"
Ranma's attention wasn't on Akane's pleas. He stood looking over the
shelves, thinking hard.
"Akane, we've got to kill these plants," he finally said.
"What?"
"We've got to kill these plants," he said again. "Look, whatever is
happening is all because of that blood of theirs being fed to your sisters and
the gang. That old guy is up to no good."
"Ranma, I believe that, but let's go call the police and let them
handle this!"
"After we cripple his plans. I don't know about you, but I for one
don't want him feeding this to anybody else."
Akane knew he was right. More people meant more trouble for them.
Bad enough they'd have to convince the authorities of what they found, there
still remained the problem of rescuing the others.
"Okay. Let's do this quick," she said.
"Great. Now I'm going to have to disable all of the alarms attached
to the thermometers. While I'm doing that, why don't you start dumping all of
that plant sap down the drains."
As Akane went back out to do what he said, Ranma turned back towards
the row of shelves.
"Okay, you things," he said. "This party is over . . . ."

* * * * *

"Who are you?" Renon Marcus said to his two captives.
Tsubasa and Gosunkugi stood before him surrounded by the rest of the
gang. Their dark look's were not very confiding, and the way Tatewaki held
his sword prevented them from trying to fight their way out. They remained
silent, staring down at the floor.
Nabiki walked up next to him.
"The androgynous one is Kureni Tsubasa," she said. "The walking
deadman, Hikaru Gosunkugi. They are from our school."
Renon raised a brow, eyeing the two with malice clearly written in
them.
"You need to eat more red meat," he said to Gosunkugi.
"Funny, I all ready do. Guess I'm anemic," he answered.
Sarcasm or not, Ryoga slapped him hard across the side of his head.
"Ow, Hey!" Hikaru exclaimed, but Ryoga grabbed him by the collar,
forcing his head forward.
"Not very wise, Mister Gosunkugi," Renon said. He leaned eye to eye
with the terror stricken boy. "Now, why are you here, hmm?"
Hikaru shook, but held his tongue. A smirk crossed Marcus's face, and
he looked over to Kureni. Tsubasa shrugged.
"Would you believe we got lost?" he answered.
Tatewaki slapped him. "The doctor asked you a question!" he shouted.
Tsubasa held the side of his head, grimacing from the pain. "You
better pray I don't get a chance to kick your ass, Kuno!"
Tatewaki grabbed his hair, jerking his head back. Before he could run
the business end of the sword across his throat, Marcus stopped him.
"Let him go, Tatewaki," he said.
Kureni rubbed his neck glaring around at his friends. He stopped on
Ukyo.
"Ukyo, what's going on here?" he asked her. She did not reply, and
Tsubasa felt a wave of dread flow through him.
"I wouldn't be worried about what is going on," continued Renon. "You
may not realize this, but you and your friend are in pretty serious trouble."
"I gathered as much from the way we've been man-handled," Tsubasa
replied. "Who the hell are you?"
"Tut, tut, tut," Marcus said waving a finger at him. "I'm asking the
questions here."
"Yeah, well you're not getting any answers!" Gosunkugi shouted.
"Ranma will make sure--."
"Hikaru!" exclaimed Tsubasa, but he knew he was to late.
Marcus let a smile come to his face, eyes bright at the mention of
Ranma's name. "Saotome?" he said leaning closer to them. "Did Saotome send
you?"
No reply, their prisoners staring sheepishly at the floor again.
Anger started to fill Renon and he moved back eyeing them for a moment.
"I should reword that. Is Saotome here?"
Still nothing but silence. Marcus finally had enough.
"Hm, I see we must do this the hard way. Kasumi, give me the sap."
Kasumi reached into her pocket, handing him a vial half full of the
Ginsukou root sap. Marcus held it up.
"Just enough," he said.
Popping the top, Marcus glanced at Tatewaki, pointing sharply to the
floor. Kuno walked behind them. He flicked his sword, striking Hikaru and
Kureni at the back of their knees with the flat side of the blade. They cried
out, dropping to the floor.
"Watch that sword, Kuno!" Tsubasa growled up at him.
Mousse took hold of Tsubasa, Ryoga taking Gosunkugi, forcing them to
look up at Marcus.
"Well, you gentlemen did want to know what was going on," he said. An
evil grin came to his face, letting them fret for a moment. "So . . . . who
wants to be first?"
Hikaru and Kureni traded fearful glances, trembling at what was going
to happen next.

* * * * *

Akane was more than adept at disposing of unwanted materials, every
container of the sap she could find piled around her while she emptied the
contents into a sink. The last of the stuff washed away beneath a torrent of
water and soap, tainting it so it's effects would not pollute the environment.
She pulled the dust mask from her face, running back to the greenhouse.
"Ranma, I'm done," she said.
Inside, Ranma was disconnecting the last alarm, shutting off the
humidifier connected to it. He stepped back admiring his work.
"Look at'em, Akane. Withering up like old women," he said.
True enough, the leaves of every plant had begun to curl at the change
in their climate. All the green had faded to a dull brown, occasional
shudders from the stalks as their lives expired.
"Reminds me of Cologne," finished Ranma.
"That's bad, Ranma," Akane said, but couldn't help but giggle at his
comment. She glanced at her watch. "We'd better get going."
"Yeah, but let's make sure all of these things are dead first. I'll
start down here, you take the other end."
They split up and started checking each of the cubicles. Akane found
herself unable to check the upper rows, too short to see inside. She tried
jumping, but that did no good.
"Ranma, I need a hand here," she called out. Her words were greeted
by silence. "Ranma?" she called again.
Walking around, he was nowhere to be seen. Fear began to creep up on
Akane as she slowly peeked around the nearest corner. Empty, she moved on to
the next. Akane tried to see out the glass panes, hoping that Ranma was
outside waiting for her, but they were still partially fogged over, the
outside blurred. Carefully she stepped around into the next aisle and stopped
dead in her tracks.
Ranma lay on the floor unconscious, Shampoo at his side with her back
turned. The Amazon sensed her, looking back over a shoulder. Akane took
stance ready to attack, but before she could do anything else, two fingers hit
at the base of her neck. She cried out reeling from the blow, tumbling
against the side of the shelf.
Akane managed to look back at her attacker. "Nabiki?" she gasped
before slipping into darkness.
Nabiki scowled at her sister, rubbing the pain from her fingers.
Kodachi and Shampoo came up beside her.
"Not bad," said Shampoo. "A little weak, but it work just same."
Kodachi laughed cynically. "What now, oh fearless one?" she asked.
Nabiki stared at the two, then at the damage around them.
"Find something to tie them up with and take'em upstairs," she
ordered. "I'll go and get Doctor Marcus. I'm sure he's going to flip when he
sees what dear sister and Ranma have done to his plants . . ."


Chapter Nine

The only thing Renon could think about was should he kill Ranma and
Akane or not; standing angrily in the greenhouse looking at the dead plants.
Most of the gang were busy pulling the roots from the pots, taking them to
Kasumi in an attempt to salvage any of the vital sap needed for their
operation.
Disaster, he thought to himself walking out. Over on one of the
tables, Kasumi, Ukyo, and Shampoo cut the Ginsukou roots open, draining any
loose sap from their canals. It wasn't looking very good Marcus could see.
Once the roots had been exposed to the sudden change in their environment, the
sap began to coagulate, cutting off the vital flow of nutrients the plant
needed to survive. Most of what the three women drained out was useless, hard
clumps of black goo to far gone for any type of resurrection.
Renon shook his head. "Is there any sap you can recover, Kasumi?" he
asked.
"Only the sap closest to the center, Doctor," she replied
"Damn!" scowled Renon. He normally refrained from any emotional
outburst, but Ranma Saotome had succeeded in bringing his blood to a boil.
"I should kill them," he said. Marcus paused, then chuckled lightly.
"Ranma, he has the qualities of a professional. Intelligent and resourceful,
that I like in a man."
He turned to Nabiki. "Where are they now?"
"We've tied them up and put them in your office, Doctor," she
answered.
"Excellent. Relieve your sister. I want to go and have a brief chat
with Mister Saotome and Miss Tendo."

* * * * *

"Ranma . . . ."
A dull throb greeted Ranma, his head heavy as he slowly recovered.
His name buzzed in his ears, somewhat irritating since it was being repeated
over and over again in slow motion. He let out a light moan, moving his head
from side to side trying to regain his senses. Finally Ranma managed to open
his eyes.
"Ranma . . . ."
"Oooh."
"Ranma, Ranma, please wake up. Oh, please wake up!"
Ranma shifted, trying to move but found himself unable to do so.
"Akane?" he said.
"Ranma! Thank goodness," replied Akane. "They got us, Ranma. They
got us!"
"What?" Ranma still wasn't fully aware yet of his surroundings. A
heavy weight pressed down on his back, then he could feel it moving around.
He tried bringing his arms up, managing a sharp jerk.
"Akane. . . . Akane!" he cried out.
"I'm on top of you, Ranma," she answered.
It was becoming clearer now. Ranma lifted his head looking back as
far as he could. He lie on his stomach with both arms bound behind him, feet
secured tightly together, tied back to back with Akane.
"Are you all right?" he asked her.
"Yes."
That was a relief. Ranma let his head touch the floor again,
muttering a curse. They had dallied too long, and now look what happened.
Caught by their maddened friends for who knows what devilish scheme.
"I can't see much, Akane," he continued looking up again. "Where are
we?"
"An office I think."
"Have you seen anybody else?"
"No, I've only been awake for about ten minutes. Ranma, what are we
going to do?"
"Get loose first of all."
He tested the bindings. "Funny, they don't feel like ropes," said
Ranma. Taking a deep breath, Ranma began to strain against them. Almost
immediately, Akane cried out in pain.
"OW, Ranma stop it you're hurting me!"
He stopped. "Akane feel for a knot."
"I can't move my arms Ranma, yet alone my hands."
"Yeah, me neither. What the hell did they tie us up with?"
"I can't see. Wait a minute. Ranma lift your legs."
He did, Akane straining to look down at her feet.
"Oh, great," she said.
"Bad news?"
"They used electrical tie straps on us. Thick industrial strength
ones," she answered.
"Those bastards! No wonder I can't feel any circulation in my hands."
"We're at their mercy then. We can't break those. Not like this."
"Oh yeah? Watch me!"
Ranma tried once more straining harder against the straps. Again,
Akane pleaded with him to stop.
"Okay, so I can't," he said after a moment. Apparently their arms and
legs were positioned so that if Ranma attempted any kind heavy strain, Akane's
limbs would be at risk of snapping like a twig from a tree. Very clever, he
thought. I'm the strongest, so naturally inhibit my ability with the one
thing I wouldn't dare hurt.
"Akane, I'm tired of sucking dust. Think we can roll onto our side?"
"Okay. To my left, on three."
She counted and together they tipped themselves over. Ranma took in
their surroundings.
Hey, not bad," he said noting the fine wood grain desk and chairs.
"We're tied up in some strangers office with a good chance of being
killed, and you're admiring furniture!"
"Well, it is nice--."
"Ranma! Think about trying to get us out of this mess!"
"I am, I am!" he replied.
It looked hopeless though. Who knew when the gang would return for
them, and then what? No way were they going anywhere soon by the looks of
things, unless they could find something to cut the straps.
"Akane, look for something sharp," said Ranma.
"I'm looking at the wall, Ranma."
"A nail sticking out, a rough corner. Anything, Akane!"
They squirmed on the floor in a desperate attempt to loosen the
straps. The door to the office suddenly opened, Ranma stopping too see who
was coming in. Kasumi peered in around the corner.
"Kasumi!" he cried out.
Akane strained to see her sister. "Kasumi, Kasumi help us!" she said.
Kasumi stepped in but stood looking at them in a strange silence.
From behind her Renon Marcus walked into view. Ranma's mouth fell open in
shock.
"I knew it!" he growled.
Marcus went to a near by chair and sat down. "You were surprised,
Mister Saotome?" he said.
"Ranma, who is he?" asked Akane.
"It's that old guy I was telling you about," he answered her.
Marcus narrowed his eyes briefly at him. "Let's stop with that 'old
guy' stuff, okay?" he said. Taking hold of Ranma's shirt, Marcus turned his
two bound captives around so they could get a better look at him.
"Ranma Saotome and Akane Tendo," he began. "I am Renon Marcus.
Doctor Renon Marcus."
"What have done to my sisters and our friends!" shouted Akane.
Marcus leaned back, smiling at her. "A feisty one you are, Akane
Tendo. Mark of a fine woman. You have good taste, Saotome."
"You bastard. When I get free of these things I'm going to kick your
ass!" Ranma raged at him.
"But you will not. Not before I include you into my family."
"Huh?" they both said together.
Marcus laughed. "Yes, a family I've created to help me with an
endeavor of great importance."
"Endeavor? What endeavor?" said Ranma.
"You will find out soon enough, Ranma Saotome," replied Marcus. He
paused looking them over, pondering his next course of action.
"Both of you have caused me a great deal of damage. Killing my plants
was not very nice."
"If we'd known you were behind all this, it might not have been the
plants," said Akane.
"Maybe, just maybe, Miss Tendo. I came very close to having both of
you killed. However; I want you in my family, Ranma,"
Ranma glared at him. "I'm not joining up with you. Never!" he
replied defiantly.
"And again, you have no choice," countered Marcus. "Once lovely
Kasumi here derives enough sap from what's salvageable, I'm going to give it
to you. You too, Akane."
Akane shuddered. She looked up to her sister, fear in her eyes.
"Kasumi," she pleaded. Kasumi remained silent.
"She will not help you," Marcus said. "Your sister is part of my
family now."
"What is this 'family' crap you keep talking about!" shouted Ranma.
Renon arched a brow, humored by Ranma's resistance. "I guess I can
tell you that much. I create 'Families', Mister Saotome. I look up people
with skills and abilities useful for whatever tasking let's say, my services
require."
"You're a mercenary," Akane said. He let out a short chuckle.
"Cute," Renon said. He continued.
"I form these families, execute the missions, and then terminate them
when the job is done."
"So you create zombies to do your dirty work, and let them take the
fall!" said Ranma.
"An accurate analogy. You are quite the bright one."
"But what if the police catch them? Aren't you afraid that your
victims will tell them what you've done?"
"Impossible. No one recovers once under the influence of the Ginsukou
sap."
Ranma and Akane felt a new wave of terror pass though them. If what
Marcus said was true, then there would be no way too save the gang at all.
"What do you do with your 'family' once a job is done?" asked Ranma.
Renon leaned towards him, an evil glint in his eyes. "You must have
missed what I said about terminate."
"You're going to kill them?" Akane cried.
He sat back. "I thought about that, but too be honest I like your
friends. Some expendables in the bunch, but overall a very good group of
people."
Marcus waved Kasumi over to him. She came willingly and he stood up
placing an arm around her shoulders.
"Especially Kasumi," he continued drawing her closer. "Such a
beautiful child. She loves me you know. Isn't that right, Kasumi?"
Kasumi smiled, reaching up to kiss Marcus passionately. Akane gasped
then began struggling fitfully against her bonds.
"You stop that, you stop that!" she cried. "Ranma, do something.
He's molesting your sister-in-law!"
"Oh yeah, right!" replied Ranma. "I'm going to do something right
now, Akane. Wait a minute, I know! Let me wriggle at him. That aught'a
scare him off." He squirmed around for a second. "You scared now, Doc?"
"Ranma, this is no time to be funny!" snapped Akane.
Kasumi and Renon parted, Renon laughing at them.
"You are very funny, Ranma," he finally said. "They were right.
You're a perfect couple."
"Touch my sister again like that, and I swear I'll kill you, Marcus!"
threatened Akane.
"You're lucky Doctor Tofu isn't around. Otherwise you'd be nothing
but pulp," added Ranma.
"Not to worry, Ranma. No one will know anything because there will be
no one around to tell."
"You're not going to get away with this, Marcus!"
"Our father's will come looking for us!" added Akane.
"Yes I will, and where will they start, eh? After I've included you
into my family, we'll be long gone."
"What are you going to do?" Ranma said.
Marcus frowned. "In due time, Ranma. There is a bad habit in movies
for the bad guy to spill his intentions to a good guy when he's down. Hero's
always manage to escape, thus spoiling the plan. This is not a movie."
Marcus led Kasumi to the door.
"Well Kasumi and I have work to do, but don't worry I will have your
doses brought up shortly. Then everyone will understand everything."
Ranma tensed, gritting his teeth. "Marcus!" he cried. The door
closed, leaving them once again alone and helpless.
"Ranma, you've got to brake these straps!" Akane said frantically.
"I can't without hurting you."
"Hurt me then, damn it! We can't allow Marcus to get away with what
he's doing,"
"I can't hurt you, Akane, no way. If I break your arms, that means
I'm going to have to leave you behind. Who knows what he'll do to you once he
discovers I'm gone."
"Ranma you've got to!"
"No!" he shouted ending any further discussion.
They were silent, pondering their situation. Suddenly Ranma started
squirming against the straps.
"What are you doing?" Akane asked him.
"Trying to work these things loose. Their so tight though, I can't
get them past my elbows."
"Well you're such a big guy that--."
Akane stopped as an idea came to mind.
"Something?" Ranma said noticing her change.
"Big guy. . . . that's it!" she exclaimed.
"What's it?"
"These things are tight around our wrist and forearms, and with your
size their not about to come loose anytime soon, right?"
"And your point is?"
"My point is; what would happen if you changed into Ranko?"
Ranma thought quickly realizing that Akane's idea had a good chance of
succeeding.
"Akane, you're brilliant!" he said.
"Naturally. Behind every good man is a good woman. Remember that."
"Okay, genius. Let's not get too smug here. We still have one
problem to contend with."
"Which is?"
"Water."
Oh yeah, thought Akane. The only time they wanted Ranma to turn into
Ranko is the only time that any water would not be readily accessible. Ranma
looked around, spying what appeared to be a door just behind the desk.
"There might be a bathroom across the room," he said.
"What if it isn't?"
"Won't know until we check it out," he answered.
Ranma gauged the distance. It wasn't very far, but without the use of
his arms or legs, it seemed like a mile away.
"This is going to take some work," he said. Sighing, Ranma rolled
back onto his stomach.
"Never thought such a small woman could weigh so much," he joked.
"Don't you start, Ranma Saotome," Akane said.
"Now, now dear," replied Ranma.
With a jerk, Ranma began inching his way across the floor. . .

* * * * *

"Yes, great-grandmother. We on way home now," Shampoo said into the
phone. She cringed slightly as Cologne unleashed another furious barrage at
her.
"We sorry, and promise to work extra hard tonight. You see!"
Cologne finished her ravings, hanging up with an audible click. The
bright expression on Shampoo's face faded away. She hung up the phone,
staring out into empty space.
"Very good, Shampoo," Renon said from behind her.
"Thank you, Doctor," she replied turning around.
Mousse came up beside her holding a small vial full of sap in his
hand.
"Do not waste that," instructed Renon. "Feed it to this old crone,
and get back here as soon as you are finished. Clear?"
They both nodded; setting off on their mission.
That task out of the way, Marcus returned to the table. All the
plants had been drained, and thanks to Kasumi's cooking skills a small
quantity of the Ginsukou sap simmered in the pressure cooker undergoing final
refinement. He peered into the sight glass checking the liquid for any
discoloration.
"An excellent job, Kasumi," he said.
"I've estimated that we will be able to fill about sixteen vials,
Doctor Marcus," she replied.
"How long before this is ready?"
"Another half-hour at the latest."
Renon glanced at his watch. Plenty of time. Once he's converted
Ranma and Akane, then phase two of his operation would commence.
"Nabiki!" he called out. She came up behind him.
"Get the others busy moving the equipment into the vans out back," he
ordered her.
"Shall I have Ranma and Akane brought down here?" she asked.
"No. Do as you're told!" Renon snapped.
Nabiki moved off to carry out his orders. Marcus gazed angrily at
her.
"Your sister is very independent-minded," he said to Kasumi.
"She always was, Doctor," Kasumi replied. "Nabiki is very
intelligent; although sometimes she can be a little irritating."
"I've noticed." He narrowed an eye, placing a hand to his chin in
thought.
"I wonder why she is so worried about Ranma?" he wondered.
"His luck," Kasumi answered.
"Luck?"
"He's always been a lucky one. Notice how long it took for us to
finally get him."
Renon leaned back against the table. He looked up at the ceiling,
contemplating Kasumi's words.
"I'm not one to believe in luck, but if we must put a name on it, that
will do."
Turning to Kasumi, he smiled suggestively. "Ranma Saotome has just
run out of luck though. There will be no more delays to his addition into
this family. We shall see to that."
Kasumi arched a brow.
"If you say so, Doctor," she replied.

* * * * *

Ranma took a brief look up from his efforts, drawing in a breath
before continuing on. The door was not more than a few feet away, but he was
finding movement difficult going across the carpeted floor. Above he could
hear an occasional giggle from Akane, irking him. She did it again and he
finally stopped.
"Akane, why are you laughing?" he asked.
She giggled once more. "Well, don't think I'm insane, Ranma," Akane
explained. "You've carried me on your back before, but never like this. In
it's own demented way, it's kind of fun."
"Fun?"
"Yeah."
Ranma let his head fall to the floor. "Akane, this is not an easy
task here," he said looking back. "Frontal rug burn is not my idea of having
fun."
"At least you'll know how us girls feel."
"Huh?"
"Then again I wouldn't know," Akane quickly added.
Ranma shook his head. "You need help, Akane. Let's cease with the
giggles, okay?"
"Oh, pooh," she replied. "Don't tell me you aren't enjoying this."
Akane clicked her tongue. "Giddy up, Kimba!"
Ranma sighed, inching forward again. Soon they were within touching
distance. He turned onto his side and together they worked their way around
until their feet pressed up against the door.
"Pray this door's not locked," Ranma said.
"Perish the thought," Akane replied.
"Cross your fingers. On three. Ready?"
"Go."
Ranma counted and they kicked. A loud thump sounded, the door
remaining closed. Ranma grimaced.
"I hope they didn't hear that," he said letting a short minute pass.
No response came, the two letting out relived sighs. They kicked again, this
time the door creaking open. Ranma and Akane worked their way in pushing it
back further.
"What do you see, Akane?"
Akane spotted a toilet and wash basin on the right side of the room.
"You were right, Ranma!" she exclaimed cheerfully.
"Now all we need is to figure a way to get at some water."
"There's two valves under the sink."
"That's our target then."
Moving was much easier on the tiled surface, and they quickly
positioned themselves around, lining up with one of the valves.
"Okay, here we go," Ranma said getting ready to strike.
They kicked, jarring it sharply. It moved but no water appeared.
"Fine time for quality construction to shine through," Ranma said.
"We'd better get it right this time," Akane said. "That was a loud
crack. I don't think a second one will be missed."
"Okay, one more time then. Ready?"
"Count away."
"One. . . . two. . . . THREE!"
They lashed out again, sharply hitting the valve handle. It cracked
off the stem, flying through the air. Akane let out a surprised squeal as a
stream of cold water burst forth.

* * * * *

Kasumi filled the last vial with Ginsukou sap, sealing it up. She
handed it to Renon; who held it up to the light. Marcus gave her an approving
nod.
"Now it is time for Ranma and Akane to join us," he said. "Nabiki,
Ryoga, Ukyo. Come with me."
As the rest of the gang continued loading, Renon led the way up the
steps to the second floor.
"You see, Nabiki. Ranma Saotome has lost all of that profound luck
you and your sister think he has. I will personally feed him the--."
He paused, hearing a sound coming from his office that shouldn't be.
Marcus quickened his pace. Bursting inside the office, they found a dark
stain slowly spreading across the carpet. The rush of running water echoed
from the restroom, and as for Ranma and Akane they were nowhere to be found.
Renon was shocked.
"Impossible!" he exclaimed moving further into the room. Nabiki and
Ukyo went over to the open window peering out.
"There they are, Doctor Marcus!" called Nabiki pointing.
Renon rushed over; Ryoga careful to avoid stepping into any water.
Outside, he could see Akane being help down over the wall by a girl he'd never
seen before.
"Stop them!" Renon cried out.
Ukyo drew a throwing spatula from her bandoleer, flinging it at the
red-headed girl. It barely missed, imbedding into the metal pole just above
her head. She leaped down and soon the two were running in full stride down
the street.
Marcus slammed a fist down on the sill. "Get after them!" he shouted.
Ukyo and Ryoga ran out to alert the others. Marcus grabbed Nabiki by an arm,
jerking her around.
"Who was that red-headed girl, and why wasn't I told about her!"
Nabiki smiled lightly. "That was Ranma," she answered.
He let her go, starting sharply. "Ranma?"
"Yes, Ranma."
"That can't be. Ranma's a male!"
Nabiki scratched the side of her head casually. "Sometimes."
Marcus could not believe this was happening. Another surprise from
Saotome. If he and Akane managed to reach the authorities, then all his plans
might be ruined.
"Get them back, Nabiki," he scowled. "Get them back, or silence them
permanently."
"Yes, Doctor. I knew we should have brought them down earlier."
Fury rushed through Renon's temples at her sarcasm. He reared back
ready to strike, but stopped realizing that she was right.
"Get out of here!"
Nabiki turned away, snickering lightly as she left.

* * * * *

Ranko and Akane literally sprinted the few miles though town back to
the dojo. They paused long enough to shut the main gates, barring them closed
then rushed inside. In the living room, Soun and Genma were at their usual
afternoon game of Shogi when the two burst into the room.
"DADDY!" Akane cried startling them. They looked up.
"Akane. What are you doing home at this time of the day?" asked Soun.
She dropped to her knees, panting heavily. As Ranko crawled away
towards the sauna, Akane went over to her father. She hugged him, crying into
his shoulder.
"Akane?" Soun said trying to console her.
"Daddy, daddy something terrible has happened to Kasumi, Nabiki and
the others."
Soun pushed his daughter gently back, narrowing a brow. "What has
happened to them?" he said.
"A man. . . . an evil man by the name of Renon Marcus has turned them
into slaves!"
Soun frowned, giving Genma a hard stare. Genma let out a hum, getting
up and headed to the kitchen. Meanwhile, Soun called to Ranma.
"I'm coming!" he answered drying himself as he returned. Ranma sat
down next to Akane.
"She's right. The gang's in some serious trouble. This Marcus; you
know, that old guy, well he's up to no good."
"We've got to call the police, daddy!" exclaimed Akane.
"Hold on," replied Soun settling her down. "Relax, relax. There's
time for all of that."
"No their isn't!" said Ranma. "The gangs working for him now. They
know we've escaped. Doesn't take a genius to figure out where we went.
They're probably on their way now!"
Genma returned carrying a pitcher and two glasses in his hands.
"Pop! We've got to find some way to help the others. Tell him!"
"There is time, Ranma," Genma answered. He set the pitcher down on a
table, pouring each of them a glass of tea, sitting down once more. "Both of
you need to rest and regain your strength. While you do that, Soun and I will
make the appropriate calls."
"But, Pop--."
"No buts, boy. Sit down and drink your tea."
His father was right, they were in need of some rest after the long
run. Akane agreed, think about her two sisters and how they could rescue them
from that madman's grip. She sighed bringing the glass up to her lips. A
faint aroma caught her, the familiar smell of . . . .
Cherry Blossoms!
Immediately Akane lashed out, smacking the glass from Ranma's hands.
He cried out drawing back.
"Hey, what's the big idea?" he shouted at her.
She ignored him, placing her glass down on the game table, inching
back. A quick glance between Soun and Genma brought fear to her eyes.
"Ranma . . . . the tea," she gasped.
Ranma looked at the tea on the floor, recognizing that familiar dark
brown-red coloring. He stared at his father.
"Uh, Akane I think it's time to be going," he said standing up pulling
her with him.
Genma followed suit. "Sit down, boy," he said. By his tone, Ranma
knew that trouble was about to begin.
Akane stared at her father, lips quivering in a desperate attempt to
hold back her sobs. "Daddy?" she said.
Soun took hold of her wrist. "Sit down, Akane. Everything will be
all right."
She jerked her hands free, inching back along with Ranma. "No, not
you too, Daddy!" Akane sobbed.
Genma started advancing on Ranma. "Get back, Pop!" shouted Ranma
going into a defensive stance.
"Don't make us have to do something you're going to regret, boy,"
replied Genma. "Sit down and drink your tea!"
Akane retreated before her father, hands held fearfully to her lips as
he moved towards her.
"Do as your told, Akane," said Soun.
She could only cry, unable to accept this was happening.
"Daddy. . ."

The conclusion to Part One. . .

C&c Welcome.

P.S., Since the Fanfic@fanfic.com is temporarily down, I never got to
ask you folks this question.
Researching Dark Family/Part 2, I've run into a slight snag. Need a
layout of the Parliment Building, and the Prime Minister's office to
make that story a bit more acurate. If anyone can help, I'd appreciate
it.


Chapter Ten

Ranma squared off with his father, hands held up at the ready waiting
for the inevitable attack. He chanced a glance over to Akane. The girl stood
virtually cationic as Soun closed the distance between them.
"Hit him, Akane!" he cried.
Soun sneered at Ranma. "You wouldn't hit your father, would you,
Akane?" he said, features softening into a pleasant smile.
Akane shook her head. "No, no, no daddy!" she sobbed.
"Akane, don't let him come any closer. Hit him!" pleaded Ranma.
Genma took that opportunity to charge. He let out a yell, leaping at
his son. Both men tumbled back, crashing into the cabinet behind Ranma. That
broke Akane from her shock.
"Akane, be reasonable," said Soun.
She stared at him for a second, biting her lower lip.
"I'm sorry, daddy."
Akane leaped, executing a spinning kick that caught Soun square on the
side of the head. He let out a cry sailing back across the game table to the
floor. His shock was brief, Soun looking at his daughter, malice in his eyes.
With a yell, he shot up and attacked.
Meanwhile, Ranma and Genma were locked in a violent struggle on the
floor, throwing punches at each other while trying to get the upper hand.
Finally, Genma managed to get one of his arms up under Ranma's chin. He
jerked back, standing up; Ranma writhing about in his grasp. The grip
tightened, and Ranma realized that his father was trying to render him
unconscious. Tipping forwards as far as he could, Ranma's head smashed
painfully into Genma's mouth. He released him clutching his face. Quickly,
Ranma took advantage of the situation. A series of rapid punches to the ribs
had Genma staggering for air; a sharp kick completing the job launching him
towards the staircase. The banister shattered, Genma collapsing on the steps.
It was only a brief reprise. Genma's hulking form rose up. He
gripped part of the broken railing in his hands and charged again. Ranma
blocked the first swing, ducking low then coming up with an upper cut to an
arm. It hurt, but not enough to slow Genma. His elbow caught Ranma in the
face knocking him back. Ignoring his pain, Ranma barely jumped out of the way
as the railing crashed down. He leaped, kicking Genma in the face and the
weapon clattered to the floor. Once more they traded blows, sparring back and
forth behind Akane and Soun.
She stood deflecting her father's punches, ducking up under his arms
as Soun made desperate attempts to catch her.
"Akane! Stop this insanity and accept the fact that you have lost!"
Soun shouted at her.
Another mad lunge met empty air, Akane rolling across the floor. She
stood up, but hesitated to connect with a blow.
"Hit him, Akane!" Ranma said just before Genma smashed him in the
face.
Her chest heaved, Akane letting out a sad moan moving back. Ranma
deflected Genma's blows, landing a round house kick that sent him straight
through the partition of the dinning room.
"Akane, we're going to get liquid lobotomies here if you don't fight!"
he shouted.
Responding to his observation, Akane grimaced. She ducked under
another of Soun's swings and punched him in the stomach. Soun let out a gasp
clutching his midsection and doubled over. A blow to the side of his back
sent him crashing to the floor. Soun let out a vicious growl as he rose up on
all fours.
"You will regret that, Akane," he snarled, lunging at her.
Ranma had Genma neatly contained, pummeling him with chops and blows,
keeping him off balance. It was unusual though how much punishment his father
was taking. Some of these blows were meant for use against Ryoga, the only
other person he considered his equal. Genma would not give up, repeatedly
attacking without concern for himself. This had to have something to do with
that sap, thought Ranma.
"Okay, pop. You can't take me," he said trying to talk some sense
into the man.
Genma kneeled on the floor across the dining room, pausing to regain
his strength. He glared at Ranma, no sign of compassion or understanding for
his only child in him.
"(Huff, huff) We'll see. . . . (huff), . . . . boy!" he said.
With a yell, Genma attacked. Ranma took a few steps back and then
brought a leg up. His sharp kick caught his father square in the chin
launching him up and out through the window. A splashing sound followed.
"Oh, great. That's all I need now," Ranma said.
The window and part of the wall gave way; Genma, in panda bear form,
charging in. A burly paw sent Ranma across the room, hitting the wall with
enough force to leave an impression as he fell to the floor.
"Ranma!" cried Akane fearing for him. She turned and that was the
opportunity Soun needed. He grabbed her, lifting Akane from the floor,
holding her fast as she struggled.
"Ranma, Ranma help me!"
Ranma came to his knees still dazed from the blow. He heard Akane's
voice looking up. Genma advanced with a growl, but Ranma went prone, swinging
his body around, cutting the panda's legs from under him. Genma smashed head
first into the wall. With his father briefly out of the fight, Ranma got to
his feet and rushed to Akane's aid.
"Stop fighting me, Akane!" Soun said closing his arms tighter around
her.
Akane fought, headbutting him with no effect.
"Ranma!" she cried again, then a solid fist to the face caused Soun to
release her. Ranma poured it on, landing several more blows that left Soun
reeling.
"Akane, are you all right!" exclaimed Ranma.
She nodded. Suddenly Akane's eyes widened. She put a hand on top of
Ranma's head forcing him down, then threw a punch hitting Genma in the chin.
Ranma thanked her, then let out a short gasp pushing Akane aside. He
stepped into Soun's attack, taking a hand full of his shirt and launched him
into the returning Genma. Together they tumbled back into the dinning room.
"Like I said, it's time to leave," he said.
Taking Akane by the hand, Ranma ran for the patio door. He slid it
open, and found himself staring straight into Ryoga's face. Ryoga started not
expecting this sudden of an encounter, before a solid right launched him,
Tsubasa and Kodachi back down the sidewalk.
"Can't go that way!" Ranma said shutting the door.
The glass of the living room window shattered, two familiar figures
leaping inside. Ranma and Akane backed away, preparing to defend themselves.
Kuno and Sasuke stood up.
"Give it up, Saotome," Tatewaki said gripping the hilt of his sword.
"You cannot escape us."
Sasuke produced a long length of chain, twirling both ends rapidly.
Akane tugged on Ranma's sleeve, pointing to their right. Ukyo walked
menacingly down the lower hall, her battle spatula held at the ready. A quick
glance to the left found Genma and Soun moving in from the dining room. The
patio door flung open, Ryoga glaring angrily at Ranma as he, Tsubasa,
Gosunkugi and Kodachi walked in, completing the trap.
Tatewaki let out a short laugh. "You see there is no way out.
Surrender, or pay the price of your folly."
Akane and Ranma moved closer together, taking stance at the
encroaching ring around them.
"Well, I guess we'll see if our training has paid off," Ranma said
jokingly to Akane.
"I hope so, Ranma," Akane replied. "Because if it doesn't, this is
going to be awfully painful."
Ranma smiled. "No deal, Kuno!" he shouted.
"Very well," Tatewaki said. His sword flashed from its scabbard.
"Remember, you were given the option. Don't complain about fair play after
we're done."
"I'll keep that in mind while I'm breaking your face," said Ranma.
Tatewaki frowned. With a nod of his head, the gang moved in.

* * * * *

Not many customers were in the Neko Hanten when Shampoo and Mousse
arrived. That was good to them, the less trouble clearing the restaurant of
unwanted witnesses. Cologne's hot stare quickly found them.
"Shampoo!" she cried. In one bound of her staff, Cologne balanced
before her wayward granddaughter. "What is the meaning of all this sudden
insolence!" she grumbled low.
Shampoo gave Mousse a light tug on his sleeve, his signal to clear the
place, before answering.
"We very sorry, great-grandmother."
"Sorry does not make up for all of the lost time, child. You have a
job here, or have both of you forgotten?"
"We not forget," replied Shampoo. "Mousse and I have something
planned for you. That why we keep big secret."
"Oh?"
Cologne cast an eye towards Mousse. It wasn't her eyes playing tricks
on her; Mousse was actually going to each occupied table and politely telling
them to depart. The glower he gave them indicated that no was not going to be
taken for an answer.
"Mousse, what are you doing!" she shouted. Before Cologne could bound
over and strike him, Shampoo grabbed hold of her staff.
"It okay, great-grandmother," she said. "We just be closed a short
time."
"No! Why, Shampoo. Why do we need to be closed?"
"As I said, we have something special planned for you. Sit down
please."
Cologne stared at her grand-daughter in total shock. "I don't know
why I'm doing this," she grumbled taking a seat at the nearest table. "This
had better be worth my time, child, or both of you will pay dearly."
"You will not be disappointed, Cologne," Mousse said.
Cologne watched him lock the front door; Shampoo heading briskly for
the kitchen. Something was not right with these two she mused. Her battle
senses tingled, warning of impending trouble, but she gave them the benefit of
doubt. Let's see what they've got planned for me, she thought narrowing her
eyes.

* * * * *

It sounded like a typical day in the Tendo Dojo to the people that
passed by on the street. Sounds of intense training and drill echoed through
the air, cries and screams accompanying crashes of bodies against the floor.
Inside however; a desperate battle of life or death raged between old friends.
Ranma and Akane defended their area and each other from the furious
attacks directed at them. Ranma engaged Ryoga pelting his face with a series
of punches. Ryoga rocked back, but there was no time to finish him as Sasuke
leaped slinging his chain. It wrapped around Ranma's right forearm clenching
tight. That was a mistake, Ranma jerking Sasuke from the ground before he
could get his footing. He slung the ninja around catching Soun in mid-stride
and together they tumbled away. Suddenly, a swipe from Kuno's sword flashed
past him barely missed his chest. Ranma cried out, leaping back dodging
another. Kuno pressed his attack, but this time Ranma caught the blade
between his palms, lashing out with a kick that sent him into the far wall.
Meanwhile, Akane held her ground fighting off several lunges by Genma.
She ducked his swipe, leaped catching Tsubasa in a headlock. Using him as a
support, Akane turned kicking Kodachi in the face dropping her, then flipped
Tsubasa back into Genma. Ukyo appeared attempting to cut her in half with the
edge of her spatula. She jumped over it, coming down connecting with a chop
to the side of Ukyo's neck. The spatula and Ukyo went to the floor.
Akane chanced a glance over her shoulder, checking to see if Ranma was
all right. He and Ryoga were at it again, but Kuno charged him from behind.
Without a pause Akane glanced around, picking up the wooden Shogi board on the
floor.
"Duck, Ranma!" she shouted launching it across the room.
Ranma ducked, the board smacking Tatewaki square in the chest. One
attacker down, but Ryoga connected with a left that stood him straight up. He
staggered, enduring another rock hard blow to the stomach. Ranma grimaced,
but parried the follow up blow, connecting with a heel to the chin
"Gyah! Get off me!" shouted Ranma grabbing him by the collar. With a
yell he heaved Gosunkugi across the room into Soun. Out the patio door they
went, Nabiki watching them roll by her feet.
She knelt. "Come on, guys. How hard is it to take these two, huh?"
she said. Both men quickly scurried back to the fight.
The fighting picked up as the gang bore down on the them. Ukyo
managed to get behind Akane, bringing the handle of her spatula down across
her chest, pinning her arms to her sides.
"Ranma, help!" Akane managed to say before Kodachi began punching her.
Ranma saw her predicament and immediately sprang into action. A sturdy
forearm knocked Tsubasa away, rolling clear from the dual attack by Soun and
Genma. He normally would not hit a woman, but this situation called for it.
Kodachi felt the hard kick to her side, crying out as she shot away. Akane
growled, smashing Ukyo in the mouth with her head.
"Are you all right, Akane?" Ranma said frantically.
"Don't worry about me, look out!"
Ranma turned, partially absorbing a kick from Tsubasa that sent him
back up against the wall. He began to retaliate when three shurikens from
Sasuke pinned his sleeve to the wall. Kuno, Soun and Ryoga took great
pleasure in ganging up on him, pummeling Ranma with blows, sending him to his
knees in a daze. Suddenly Akane was there, punching and kicking with
everything she could think of. Ryoga doubled over, a foot to the stomach
staggering him; Tatewaki receiving a chop that dropped him to the floor. Soun
went for her, but Akane took hold of his shirt, backflipping him across the
room.
She was quickly up, a spinning kick connecting with Sasuke; Tsubasa
running straight into a rapid series of punches.
"Ranma, get up!" Akane shouted, dodging Genma's hulking frame.
Ranma shook his head trying to clear the ring in his ears. He saw
Akane desperately fighting to protect him, and pulled himself up to his feet.
Ukyo came into view. She wielded her spatula like a bat, brining the flat
side around towards Akane. He cried out a warning, but it was too late.
Akane took the full blow slamming into the wall next to him.
"Damn you, Ukyo!" he cried. With a yell, Ranma pulled his arm free
from the wall. "Now I'm really mad!"
Ranma lashed out, breaking the wooden handle in two. Ukyo started
surprised, then Ranma double chopped her in the ribs, knocking the breath from
her. He turned face twisted in rage as Genma attacked. Panda bear or no
panda bear, Ranma pounded him mercilessly, a final kick knocking him away.
For the moment everyone but Nabiki was down. Ranma went to Akane's side.
"Ooo, Ranma," she said as he picked her up.
"Hang on, Akane. We're getting out of here.
The patio door was blocked, Ryoga rising painfully to his feet. A
glance right saw Sasuke and Tatewaki pulling themselves up. With no other way
out, Ranma dashed off towards the training hall.
"Get up!" shouted Nabiki at them. "Their getting away!" She grabbed
Ryoga and Gosunkugi by their shirts. "Go around and cut them off before they
get out!" she said thrusting them out the door. The rest of the gang got up
and set out after them.

* * * * *

Ranma came out into the training hall, sprinting for the two sliding
doors across the room. He was halfway there when they burst open, Ryoga and
Gosunkugi blocking their path. Damn! He muttered turning to run. From the
hallway, the rest of the gang rushed in cutting him off. Ranma backed against
the nearest wall, watching as they formed around them.
"Akane," he said patting her lightly on the cheek. She moaned slowly
coming to.
"Ranma?"
It pained him to see Akane's face so banged up. Her nose bled, the
beginnings of a nasty black eye forming around her left eye. He wasn't in
much better shape, but it was obvious that unless he got her out of here,
Akane would not be able to stand much more.
Nabiki stood behind the gang, a frown on her face. "Ranma, why don't
you just give up," she said drawing his attention.
Akane became aware then, gazing around at the faces. She held Ranma
tight, letting out a light gasp in fear. Ranma placed her protectively down
behind him.
"No way, Nabiki. Marcus is going to have to kill us before we fall
into his hands again!"
The snap of Sasuke's chain sounded, the ninja twirling the ends
readying for a renewed fight. Tatewaki drew his sword up; Ukyo held three
throwing spatulas between her fingers.
"Well, if you want it that way, Doctor Marcus would not mind," replied
Nabiki.
Ranma gazed at the closing ring, desperately trying to think of a way
out of this predicament. His eyes caught the crossbeams above, and a plan
began to form.
"Ranma," said Akane. He looked back at her.
"Can you hold for a few seconds?" he said. She swallowed, nodding her
head.
Ranma faced them, anger in his eyes. "Tell Marcus we'll see him in
Hell!"
Nabiki shrugged. "Okay, I tried . . . . kill them."
Come on, Sasuke, thought Ranma waiting for the attack. Unexpectedly,
Ukyo threw her spatulas at him. Akane grabbed Ranma, pulling him down to the
floor. They stitched a path above his head, then Sasuke's chain snaked out
towards him. That was all Ranma was waiting for.
Catching it in mid air. Ranma snapped it back. It coiled around
Sasuke, and he was jerked from his feet. A loud cry emitted from the ninja as
Ranma whipped him around, knocking down several of the others in the process.
"Get ready, Akane!" Ranma shouted tossing Sasuke up towards the
ceiling.
Sasuke looped over one of the crossbeams, wrapping several times
around. He pulled the chain tight, grabbed Akane around the waist and leaped
kicking off the wall. They sailed over everyone's heads and with a loud crash
burst through the window at the end of the training hall.
Nabiki and Kodachi rushed over.
"Damn it!" cried Nabiki as Ranma and Akane ran for the gates. "Go,
Kodachi. Whatever you do, don't loose them!"
Kodachi leaped out the window.
Nabiki turned glaring at the rest of the gang.
"Idiots!" she snarled.

* * * * *

The smell of fresh fish filled the air, Shampoo happily frying up a
dish of tempura for her great-grandmother. Cologne watched her, still
suspicious wondering what the two were up too.
"Shampoo, this is not like you," she said. "Why are you and Mousse
being so nice to me?"
Mousse placed a friendly hand on her shoulder. "Cologne, we just want
you to relax and enjoy some home cooking for a change," he said.
"What do you mean? I cook for us now as it is, so I don't need any
home cooking." She glanced back and forth between them. "What is going on
here?"
"Great-grandmother, relax," Shampoo said as she poured a wok full of
fried vegetables onto a plate. "Shampoo and Mousse treat you too something
you will not forget."
"You're not telling me something, girl," replied Cologne narrowing an
eye at her. "I don't like it one bit."
Shampoo did not reply turning her back to Cologne as she prepared the
last ingredients of the meal. From her shirt she pulled out the vial of
Ginsukou sap, pouring it into the rice and vegetables. Once this was mixed
in, she added the fish then turned holding the plate high above her head.
"It finished!" she exclaimed.
The dish was placed down on the table before Cologne. Shampoo sat
down across from her, resting her chin on her arms on the table.
"Eat, great-grandmother," she said cheerfully.
Cologne eyed the dish with a frown. It did look good, but her senses
were literally burning her now. This was way out of character. Mousse and
Shampoo working together like this, not ever.
"No," she said.
Shampoo sat up slowly. "Why not?"
"Because you are up to something, Shampoo."
"Cologne--," began Mousse, only to have her cut him off.
"Silence! I don't want this food. Now one of you tell me what is
going on. Now!"
The cheer faded from Shampoo's face. "I tire of game," she said to
Mousse.
Mousse nodded. "Eat, Cologne," he said in a stern voice.
"I will not, boy," she replied reaching for her staff. He knocked it
away.
"Eat," Mousse said again.
Cologne looked to her grand-daughter for an explanation. "Shampoo?"
she said, but the girl remained silent.
"Eat!" shouted Mousse.
She stared at the plate for a moment, then without warning leaped from
her chair.

* * * * *

A stunned Happosai stood at the shattered patio door, gazing around
the carnage that used to be the Tendo Dojo. He scratched his bald head,
wondering what party he missed.
"Hello?" Happosai called out. There was no answer.
Carefully, he stepped in for a closer look. All the furniture in the
living room was shattered, the walls potmarked with holes. His eyes caught
the spattering of blood on the floor. It looked as if this wasn't a party
after all, thought Happosai. An attack on the dojo? By who and where did
everyone go?
Happosai placed his bag on the ground and thought for a moment. This
felt wrong to him. No matter what, if anyone had hurt his family there would
be serious hell to pay, and he was not about to show any mercy.
Taking a last glance around, Happosai set off in search of his
friends. . .

* * * * *

Ranma ran pell-mell down the street; Akane in tow by the hand behind
him. He glanced back over his shoulder checking to see if anyone was
following. A few blocks back, Kodachi was in full stride rapidly closing the
distance on them. Akane's tired face told Ranma that they needed to find a
place to hide for a while, just a brief respite to stop and collect their
thoughts. First things first; shake this unwanted tail.
They turned a corner. Kodachi poured it on trying to keep them in
sight. She began to round the turn when Ranma's fist lashed out catching her
square in the face. Kodachi slammed up against the corner lamp post and slid
to the ground in a dazed stupor. Ranma was about to render her unconscious
when a voice from across the street yelled at him. Several high school
students charged at them from across the street. No time for another fight,
Akane tugged frantically on his shirt and they fled the scene.
A few minutes later Nabiki and the rest of the gang arrived. Kodachi
lay in some lecher's arms as another student fanned her with a handkerchief.
"Miss, miss, are you okay?" said the leach stroking her forehead.
"Idiot, can't you see she was injured by that bully!" shouted another,
more sophisticated student.
"Darling! Are you trying to flirt with this woman," threatened a
green hair girl hovering strangely above them.
"No, no! I'm just concerned for her well being," he replied. Kodachi
moaned looking up into his eyes. "Fear not, Madame. We will avenge you."
"Yuck, will you shut up!" shouted another student.
Kuno pushed the lecher away, holding his sister in his arms.
"Kodachi, which way did they go?"
Kodachi sat up pointing down the adjoining street while shaking her
head. He helped her up, and they ran off leaving the students in a stunned
silence.
"Not even a word of thanks," said the lecher.
"After having you drool all over her, I wouldn't thank you either,"
replied the sophisticated student.
"Darling, let's go home."
The leach sighed. "Yeah, let's. This side of the city was always
strange anyway."

* * * * *

The street turned out onto an open part of town following along a near
by aqueduct. Ranma and Akane had disappeared from view, Nabiki bringing them
to a halt, looking around. She muttered angrily under her breath.
"Gone!" Ryoga shouted.
"Sasuke!" Tatewaki said.
Sasuke came up and began examining the ground around them searching
for any tell-tale clues.
"Here, Master Kuno," he suddenly said.
In the street, a small drop of blood could be seen, another not to far
ahead. They followed the ninja up to the edge of the railing of the aqueduct.
Fortunately the water was barely enough to form a small stream, running into
a large tunnel cutting under the main highway. It was the only place they
could have gone in such a short time, assumed Nabiki.
"I can't go down there," said Ryoga reminding her of his curse.
"Take Genma, my father and Gosunkugi to the other side then," she
ordered him.
They ran off, Nabiki leading the remainder down the side into the
aqueduct. It was dark in the tunnel, but Nabiki's key chain pen light cast
enough light for them to see. They spread out across the expanse, and with
Sasuke in the lead began their search for the two fugitives.
Not to far down, their movement through the water could be heard. In
a short recess on the right, Ranko held herself spread eagle among the pipes
of the overhead. Akane hugged her tight, arms and legs clasped tight around
the center pole lending to their support. Sludge and grime dripped down their
bodies, insects exploring this new addition to their world. A rat took the
opportunity to stop on Ranko's hand, sniffing at her flesh.
It was hard for her to keep silent, but she did gritting her teeth
tight. The light from Nabiki's penlight played around the tunnel; Sasuke
appearing still trying to pick up their trail. Akane could hear them,
gripping tighter to Ranko's body. Sasuke moved on, followed by Nabiki, Ukyo
and Kodachi. Ranko heard Tsubasa slosh by, then Tatewaki appeared. Suddenly
he stopped.
Uh oh, she thought, watching as Kuno knelt to examine some of the
algae growing on the concrete. Great, she'd never think that Tatewaki would
have such a good eye. Ranko tensed ready to drop if they were discovered.
Tatewaki's head slowly began to follow the slight disturbances in the growth
and was just about to lookup when Sasuke's voice called to him.
"Master Kuno, I have a trail!" he said.
Tatewaki moved off; Ranko letting out a low sigh of relief. Their
voices faded away.
"Ranma," whispered Akane.
"Shh," she replied. They were silent for a few minutes longer, then
Ranko spoke.
"Okay, Akane. You can let go now."
Akane unwrapped her legs from the pole. They gently lowered
themselves to the ground careful not to make any loud sounds. Ranko and
Akane made their way back up the tunnel.
"That was good thinking leaving a trail up the tunnel, Akane," Ranko
said.
"I figured that Tatewaki or Sasuke would be able to track us," she
replied.
Climbing up the side, Ranko and Akane paused at the edge to catch
their breath.
"That wasn't all of them, though," continued Akane.
"Yeah. Pop wasn't there, and neither was Ryoga, Soun or Gosunkugi,"
Ranko looked around. "I wonder where they went?"
"Knowing Nabiki she sent them ahead to try and cut us off. That's not
what I meant though."
"What are you talking about then?"
"I figure Kasumi's with Marcus, but what happened to Shampoo and
Mousse?"
Ranko thought a moment.
"I see what you mean. That fight alone was bad enough. If they had
been there--"
"We might not have gotten away at all."
Ranko stood up. "Come on, Akane," she said sprinting down the street.
"Where are we going?" asked Akane rushing after him.
"To find some hot water first, then to the Neko Hanten."
"The Neko Hanten? Ranma, they might be there!"
"So's Cologne. She's probably the only other person that can help us
right now."
Akane was not looking forwards to another fight, but Ranma was right.
Cologne might possibly be the last person they could turn to for help.
If not, then her family and friends would be in Doctor Marcus's mad
control for the rest of their lives. . .


Chapter Eleven

Tables clattered around the Neko Hanten, Cologne springing and jumping
around trying to stay ahead of Shampoo and Mousse. Even without her staff,
she still managed to avoid their attempts to capture her. Cologne bounced off
one of the corner tables, Mousse crashing through it in a heap on the floor.
She landed on the table where Shampoo's drugged meal sat.
"You wanted me to eat this?" she said. With a kick, the plate sailed
across the room. Shampoo ducked and it splattered on the wall behind her.
"Oh. To bad, child."
Shampoo glared angrily at her. "You old bitch!" she cried out.
"Old!"
Cologne was a blur, launching herself at Shampoo. Her feet moved with
lightening speed, Shampoo's head rocking back and forth beneath the kicks.
"How's that for old!" growled Cologne as she fell.
Much too her surprise, Shampoo quickly sat up shaking off the blows.
"You've gotten better, Shampoo," she said.
Mousse appeared. "Much better than you think, old woman," he replied
slinging three throwing knifes at her. Cologne moved easily avoiding them,
recovering her staff.
"I don't know what's gotten into you kids, but it appears that I'm
going to have to hold special instruction for you," she said twirling her
staff before her.
Shampoo got up, jumping over the counter. She armed herself with her
bonbori, coming around to face her.
"You not want to do this easy, so we kill you instead," said Shampoo.
Cologne started. "Kill me. Shampoo, where are your manners?"
Shampoo let out a yell and attacked. The two bonbori rushed down on
Cologne, but she parried the blows, swinging her staff around to hit Shampoo
legs. The girl leaped over the staff, swinging down with her weapons. Again
they met her staff, then Cologne hopped out of range. Mousse drew two
nunchuku's from his sleeves whipping them around as he closed in. The heavy
ends snapped loud against her staff; Cologne retreating before him. She
suddenly ducked rolling across the floor, cutting his legs from beneath him.
"Your guard is weak, boy!" she commented, bringing her staff up behind
her head to block Shampoo's bonbori. An effortless spin sent her
grand-daughter back across the room. Mousse snarled, producing a pair of
blades from each sleeve. He attacked, swiping at her, barely missing his
mark.
My goodness, these kids are really trying to kill me! Cologne realized
then. Her staff came up, breaking the blades then connected against the side
of Mousse's head.
"Mousse, Shampoo, stop this insanity at once!" she cried. It did no
good; Shampoo lunging at her once more. The bonbori smashed into the floor,
shaking the restaurant leaving deep recessions as Cologne dodged the blows.
Her staff flashed, the thick head hitting Shampoo in the stomach. She dropped
her weapons, arms across her midsection, as she sank to the floor. Cologne
began to follow up, but suddenly a pair of chains wrapped themselves around
the staff.
Mousse pulled engaging Cologne in a desperate tug of war.
"Let go!" growled Cologne pulling harder.
In the brief interlude, Shampoo recovered her bonbori, bringing them
down at Cologne. She cried out leaping away, the staff sailing straight into
Mousse's face.
"Hold still, old woman!" shouted Shampoo chasing Cologne around the
room.
"Not a chance, child!" replied Cologne.
Dodging a swipe, Cologne stepped in close spinning on one leg, the
other outstretched before her. The kick launched Shampoo over the counter
into a stack of pots and pans.
"And while you're back there, wash them!" she snapped. A whoosh
sounded form behind, Cologne turning too late to dodge a blow from her own
staff by Mousse. It caught her up under the chin and she sail through the air
in the same direction as Shampoo. Before she could hit the ground, her
grand-daughter stood up.
"Got you!" she exclaimed holding her tight in her arms.
Cologne struggled but could not break free. "Shampoo, why are you
doing this!" she shouted.
"Doctor's orders," answered Shampoo.
She moved around the counter; Mousse dropping the staff and produced a
knife.
"It would have all been for the best if you had eaten that food like
we asked," he said moving towards them.
"Let me go! Who is this doctor, Shampoo?"
"Never mind," continued Mousse. " You will not have to worry about
that, or anything much longer."
"Hello!" a voice said from the side. Happosai stood looking up at the
scene. "Sorry to bother you, but the front door was locked. Cologne, what's
going on?"
"Happy, help! They've gone crazy and are trying to kill me!"
exclaimed Cologne.
Eh? Sounded Happosai. A foot from Mousse shot out, Happosai tumbling
back across the floor. He came up on his hands and knees, tasting the blood
running from his nose. An angry gleam filled his eyes.
"Boy, you have just made the biggest mistake of your life," he
snarled. "It's been a long time since any man has made me bleed."
Mousse chuckled. "Then I guess it won't be the last time, old man,"
he replied stalking towards him. . .

* * * * *

Nabiki couldn't believe that Ranma and Akane had evaded them once
again. She, Tatewaki, Tsubasa, Sasuke, Ukyo and Kodachi stood outside the
tunnel looking around in bewilderment.
"Okay," she shouted throwing up her hands. "I give up. Anybody got
any clues?"
Tatewaki slapped Sasuke across the back of the head.
"What happened!" he shouted.
"There was a trail, Master Kuno. I swear!" Sasuke replied.
"Well it must have been false then," Ukyo said.
At the top of the aqueduct, Ryoga, Soun, Genma and Gosunkugi appeared.
Nabiki gave them a shrug. "We lost them!"
"Well they didn't come out this way," Ryoga shouted down.
"Damn, how could we have missed them?" Kodachi said.
"To late to worry about that," said Nabiki.
"Let's search the tunnel again," suggested Tsubasa.
Nabiki shook her head. "No, they're probably long gone by now." She
tapped the side of her temple, thinking hard. "Where would you go if you were
on the run?"
"The police?" said Tatewaki.
"No evidence."
"Back to the school?" said Ukyo.
"Closed."
"Well there's really no place left for them to run too," said Kodachi.
"Who could they get to help them?"
Nabiki paused. She suddenly snapped her fingers. "There's one place
they could go," she said. "Come on, we've got to move."
"Where are we going?" called Tatewaki as they followed Nabiki up the
side of the aqueduct.
"Where else. The Neko Hanten," she replied.

* * * * *

Shampoo and Cologne watched the frantic battle between Mousse and
Happosai raging through the restaurant. Much to Happosai's surprise, the boy
was actually giving him a decent challenge. His long pipe deflected swipes
from Mousse's blades, inching back slowly before him.
"I must say, boy. You have definitely been practicing," Happosai
said.
"Hold that thought, old man," replied Mousse stepping up his attacks.
"When your head is bouncing around on the floor, you'll see then how much
you've underestimated me."
"My head, eh? Well then I'd better introduce you to some real martial
arts fighting."
With that, Happosai sprang off the floor. He rebounded off a table,
then in one move shattered one of Mousse's blades. Mousse turned to cover up,
but Happosai landed hard on his chest. The force propelled them across the
room.
"Think about that, boy!" cried Happosai leaping aside seconds before
he smashed into some tables.
"Mousse!" cried Shampoo.
Happosai gave her a brief glance. "Don't worry, girlie. I'll be with
you in a moment."
Cologne began struggling again. "Shampoo, release me at once. Do you
hear me, at once!"
"Be silent!" snarled Shampoo.
Mousse recovered, rising up on his knees. He broke away the remaining
blade, and glared at Happosai. "I'll kill you!" he cried. Chains, cables and
grappling hooks shot out from his sleeves threatening to ensnare Happosai.
The old master barely lost a step, stepping into the storm his pipe clearing a
path as he advanced. Happosai leaped up.
"You'd better learn to respect your elders, young man," he said. A
mid air kick caught Mousse under the chin; startling him as he somersaulted
backwards to land on the floor with a loud thump. Happosai laughed
hysterically, leaping around the room.
"Give up, Mousse. You can't win--."
"Look out, Happy!" shouted Cologne.
Eh? Wondered Happosai seconds before he collided with a chair kicked
at him by Shampoo. Letting out a cry, Happosai landed on his back dazed.
Before he could get to his feet, a stream of throwing stars and blades pinned
his arms and legs down, immobilizing him.
"Hey, hey, no fair, Shampoo!" shouted Happosai struggling to get free.
Mousse stood over him and Happosai looked fearfully up.
"Now you die," said Mousse. The dagger in his hand came up; Happosai
letting out a desperate yell increasing his struggles.
A blurred figure suddenly shot past Shampoo reaching out to stop
Mousse, the blade scant millimeters from Happosai's chest. Mousse turned and
was greeted by a sharp blow that sent him crashing into the far corner ahead.
"Ranma?" gasped Shampoo. A whistle from behind brought her around.
Akane let out an angry cry, kicking the Chinese girl in the face. She dropped
Cologne, joining Mousse across the room.
"Thank you, dear girl," Cologne said to Akane as she retrieved her
staff. Ranma freed Happosai, and they stood glaring at the two on the floor.
Cologne bounded over.
"Ranma! From the way you and Akane look, maybe you can shed some
light on why my granddaughter and Mousse have suddenly lost their heads."
"They've been given some sort of drug," he explained.
"Ginso-something-or other root."
Cologne's eyes went wide. "Ginsukou!" she exclaimed.
Happosai began puffing heavily on his pipe. "The Fool's Root," he
said.
"Who dares to feed my granddaughter Ginsukou root!" demanded Cologne.
"Doctor Marcus," replied Akane barely able to hold back her tears.
"He's got them all. My family, Ranma's--."
"He's up to no good," added Ranma. "We've got to stop him."
"Indeed we do, Ranma," said Happosai. "This explains their sudden
determination. Whoever this Doctor Marcus is, he's just messed with the wrong
people."
Mousse and Shampoo stirred, setting everyone back into a defensive
stance. They slowly shook their heads, then gazed up.
"So what about these two?" asked Ranma.
"We'll have to take them first before doing anything else," answered
Cologne.
Standing up, the enslaved couple glared at them, an odd smile coming
to their faces. Ranma frowned, knowing that something was amiss.
"We don't want to hurt you guys," he said.
A laugh from behind brought them around. The rest of the gang entered
from the back, cutting off any exits of escape. Nabiki stood behind the
counter casually nibbling on a plate of dried fish.
"Of course we can't say the same, Ranma," she said.
"Oh, shit!" muttered Akane.
Nabiki frowned at the plate of food, pushing it aside. "You might
want to think about changing your seasoning, Cologne."
Happosai tugged on Ranma's shirt. "All of them?" he asked.
"Yep."
Nabiki continued.
"Credit for decoying us in that tunnel, kids. Futile, I knew we'd
find you eventually."
"Your sister is part bloodhound, Akane," Ranma said.
"Not now, Ranma."
The gang began moving closer towards them.
"Why don't you give up," said Nabiki. "We have you, and this time
there is no way to escape."
"Nabiki, all of you have been given Fool's Root. Fight it, people. I
know you're stronger than this!" said Cologne.
Nabiki smirked. "Only fools I see in this room are you four," she
answered.
Cologne jumped to the ground, holding her staff in both hands.
"I was afraid of this. They are too far gone."
"Does that mean we can't help them?" asked Akane. Cologne said
nothing, giving the girl a short serious glance. The gang closed around them.
"Okay guys," said Nabiki. "Think we can take them this time?"
Tatewaki laughed. "Leave it to us," he replied.
She leaned on her elbows, humored by the situation.
"Well then . . . . sic'em!"
Nabiki reached out grabbing Kodachi by the shoulder, holding her back
from the fight as the combatants engaged each other with a loud crash. Cries
filled the air, loud blows, the flash of Cologne's staff and Kuno's sword
marking the intensity of the battle. Nabiki could see that this would go on
for several hours, and time was running short. She shook her head, annoyed by
the delay.
"You have your sleeping powder?" Nabiki asked Kodachi.
"Never leave home without it," answered Kodachi.
A vase sail close past Nabiki's head.
"Gas them."
Kodachi started with surprise.
"All of them?" she questioned.
Nabiki nodded slowly. "All of them."
A devious grin covered Kodachi's face. She reached down the front of
her bodysuit, pulling a string of small bags out. Her cynical laugh echoed
across the room as she tossed them out into the middle of the fighting;
joining Nabiki hurriedly retreating to the back room. Billowing puffs of
white powder suddenly filled the air, black petals fluttering about the room.
Ranma instantly recognized Kodachi's deadly weapon. He held his
breath and frantically looked around for Akane, Cologne and Happosai. Off to
one side, Happosai stood gasping up towards the sky clutching his throat as
the powder overcame him. He slumped, then Cologne bounded into view. She also
held her breath, but it was apparent that she too had inhaled some of the
powder; her eyes starting to glaze over. Ranma grabbed her, rushing over to
pick up Happosai.
"Akane!" he shouted, but she did not answer. There was no time to
search for her; Ranma turning to kick the front door off it's mountings. He
ran, disappearing through the small crowd that had gathered outside.
The powder settled and Kodachi stuck her head in for a look. The gang
lay about on the floor fast asleep. Nabiki and Kodachi traded looks, moving
amongst them in search of their intended quarry.
"They got away again," said Kodachi in disbelief.
Nabiki smiled. "Not all of them," she said kicking aside a table.
Underneath lay Akane. "Dear little sister. Tch, tch, tch, tch. Poor Ranma
will surely miss you now, won't he?"
"Do we go after them, Nabiki?"
Nabiki shook her head. "We won't have to," she said. "Wake the
others. We've got to return to the warehouse."
"What about Ranma?"
"Oh, he'll be along. That I'm sure of . . . "

* * * * *

Ranma did not stop running until he reached the park. Certain they
had not been followed, he placed the two elderly people on the ground.
Cologne coughed hard, trying to clear her lungs of the residual powder.
"Ranma!" she managed to say in between breaths. He knelt beside her.
"I've got to go back, Cologne," he said to her.
"Go back! (Cough, cough) No, boy. Don't you see that will be what
they expect."
"I left Akane behind, Cologne. I can't let them take her back to
Marcus!"
"Ranma, be reasonable about this!"
Ranma started to rise, but Cologne gripped him by the front of his
shirt.
"Don't be foolish, boy. You'll be walking straight into a trap!
Akane is gone."
"No!" cried Ranma swatting her hand away. He shot to his feet. "I'm
not going to let that madman get his hands on her. I'll die first!"
Cologne tried to stand, but her head was still groggy. "You can't
take them by yourself. Think, man. Think with your mind, not your heart!"
Ranma paused. "I am," he said backing away. "Take care of Happosai.
I'll try to be back soon."
"Ranma!" cried Cologne, but he ran off. She slammed a fist down on
the ground. "Foolish boy!"

* * * * *

By the time Ranma returned to the Neko Hanten the gang was gone; only
the police and a small crowd remained wondering what happened. He was careful
not to be seen, lurking back around the corner. Ranma thought, trying to
figure where they could have gone, then quickly came upon the only conclusion.
"Marcus," he muttered running down the street back towards the
warehouse. "If that son-of-a-bitch touches Akane, I'll kill him with my bare
hands."
Fearing the worst, Ranma increased his pace. . .


Chapter Twelve

A fuzzy feeling greeted Akane as she slowly returned to consciousness.
With some difficulty she opened her eyes, trying to see where she was. As
her vision focused, Akane attempted to bring a hand up, only to find her arms
and legs strapped tightly down. Where am I, she thought blinking her eyes.
It became clearer to her now. This was the same room she and Ranma
had escaped from only hours ago. Akane tried to scream, but a wide piece of
white tape kept her silent. She had been placed on an operating table sitting
upright before Doctor Marcus's desk; once again his prisoner.
"Mmmrph!" Akane's muffed cry sounded. She tugged against the straps
desperately trying to break free.
"Useless," said a voice above her.
Akane looked up, finding Nabiki peering down over the top of the
table. She tried to call her name. Nabiki smiled coming around to the side.
"Finally awake. Was wondering how long you'd stay asleep," she said.
Akane began to cry, her eyes pleading with her sister for help.
"Oh, come on, Akane," said Nabiki brushing the stray strands of hair
from her face. "Don't be afraid. Everything will seem so clear to you once
you've joined us."
"MMMMM!!!" raged Akane shaking her head frantically.
"You don't have to be so loud, sister dear. Anyway; Doctor Marcus
will soon be up with your dose, so relax."
The door opened suddenly, Marcus and Kasumi walking in.
"Speak of the devil," remarked Nabiki.
Renon moved around to the other side of the table. "And how is my
soon to be family member, Hm?" he said. Akane's hot glare said more than any
words.
"I see. Still upset. Well that will all change soon."
Marcus held up a vial of the Ginsukou sap, waving it in front of her
face. Akane's eyes went wide, cringing back as far as she could go. Kasumi
placed the remaining vials on the desk, joining them.
"I may not be able to do everything I intended to do when I first
started," continued Renon. "But I do have enough for you, and Ranma once he
shows up."
"MMNOORPH!" cried Akane.
"Yes!" replied Renon. He stepped back, turning to where Nabiki stood;
Kodachi and Tsubasa watching a series of monitors on the wall.
"Any sign of our missing member?" he asked her.
"Not yet, Doctor," she answered.
"I'm sure he'll come," added Kasumi. Akane protested against her
sister's comment. "He will, Akane," she said to her. "He loves you too much
to abandon you."
Akane leaned back, letting out a sad moan, wishing that there were
some way to prevent Ranma from walking into this trap.
"It had better be soon," said Renon. "Time is running short."
"I figure within the next twenty minutes he'll try something," Nabiki
said.
"And the others?"
"Patrolling the grounds. The only way Ranma is going to get in is by
fighting, or surrendering to us. In either case, he's lost."
"Excellent."
Marcus faced Akane again.
"Now that that's covered. It leaves only you, Akane," he said holding
up the vial.
Akane shuddered as Marcus moved towards her.

* * * * *

Ranma lay prone atop the roof of the building across the street from
Marcus's warehouse, trying to figure out a way to get inside. Every way he
looked seemed blocked; most of the gang guarding the grounds anticipating his
arrival. The roof was out, Genma and Soun on guard there preventing a repeat
performance across the powerline.
It looked like he'd have to fight his way in. Not good in light of
his current injuries and fatigue. They'd surely bring him down in one rush.
No, I'm going to have to hit and run, but now there came the problem of
locating Akane.
Ranma squinted hard trying to see through the windows on the second
floor. He made out one figure standing in Marcus's office, then another next
to them. Grief, it was Marcus himself talking to Nabiki. Who was that behind
him? Straining, Ranma watched Marcus turn around, and he gasped.
It was Akane, strapped down to a table; Kasumi just behind her. He
could see Marcus hold something up in his hand, realizing that it was a vial
of that accursed Ginsukou sap.
He's about to give it too her!
Akane was struggling hard now, Kasumi holding her head while Marcus
popped the top off the vial.
"No!" muttered Ranma, desperately looking around. His eyes stopped on
a pile of long narrow pipes in a vacant lot just behind the building he was
on. Glancing between the two walls on either side of the street, Ranma
quickly formed a plan. There was enough room on this side for him to get a
running start he figured crawling away from the edge.
If not, Akane was doomed.

* * * * *

"Will you stop squirming around!" shouted Renon as he tried to
administer the Ginsukou sap to Akane. The girl fought with everything she
could manage, moving her head from side to side keeping him from removing the
tape across her mouth. Kasumi grabbed her head holding it still.
"Thank you, my dear," said Renon. He gripped the tape at one end and
yanked hard. Akane tensed but kept her mouth shut, letting out a muffled cry
fist clenched tight. Marcus grabbed her chin and began to apply pressure.
"Open your mouth, girl!"
Akane resisted, then locked a hateful glare on him seconds before
sinking her teeth into Renon's thumb. He wailed loudly releasing her chin,
shaking his hand as he drew back. Nabiki laughed behind him.
Marcus growled. He slapped Akane several times then took hold of her
chin once more.
"You Tendo women are feisty," he said. "I can't wait to ravage you.
Nabiki, shut up and get over here and help us!"
Still giggling, Nabiki walked around to the top of the table.
"Everyone always wants to do things the hard way," she said. Her fingers
pinched Akane's nose shut, causing her to start sharply. She jerked around
trying to get free, but Nabiki held on tight.
"If she passes out, we just pour it down her throat," commented
Nabiki.
"She must be conscious," replied Renon.
Akane's chest heaved in fits and starts as her air began to expire.
She chanced a quick breath through the corner of her mouth.
"Try that again!" snarled Marcus pressing the edge of the vial to her
lips.
Darkness began to form around Akane's eyes, her lungs begging her for
air. She wavered, just about ready to gasp, when above on the roof the heavy
sound of running people could be heard.
Renon looked up. "What's going on?" he demanded.
"Sounds like trouble," answered Kasumi.
At the window a dark figure broke through with a loud crash bringing
them all around. Ranma shook the shards of glass from his head and shoulders
rising to one knee.
"Saotome!" cried Marcus.
A fist connected on his chin propelling him to the other side of the
room. Kasumi leaped catching the vial he held in her hands scant inches from
the floor. Tsubasa broke from his chair lashing out at Ranma. He quickly
succumbed beneath a barrage of blows.
"Ranma, run!" cried Akane.
Ranma kicked behind him knocking Kodachi back. "I'm getting you out
of here!" he cried. Nabiki attempted to stop him, a brief slap putting her
temporarily out of the fight.
Before Ranma could do anything else, Genma and Soun burst into the
room. "Great!" he muttered dropping back towards the desk.
"Ranma, run. They want you not me!" Akane shouted.
"I'm not leaving without you, Akane!" he replied.
Marcus pulled himself up from the floor, shaking his head. He glanced
angrily over at Ranma, then drew in a sharp breath spotting the last vials of
his sap on the desk behind him.
"STOP!" he cried.
Genma and Soun continued to advance, but Ranma frowned at his order to
them. Looking back, he noticed the vials.
"Get back!" he cried taking a fist full in each hand. Mousse and
Shampoo ran in, followed shortly by Ryoga and Ukyo. They encircled him ready
to pounce.
"I'll break these, Marcus!" he shouted holding up the vials.
"STOP!" roared Marcus again. This time his command was obeyed.
Tatewaki, Sasuke and Gosunkugi came in.
"Get back!" snapped Ranma.
"Do as he says!" shouted Marcus.
Reluctantly the gang moved back careful to maintain their coverage of
any escape routes. Ranma glanced around. Okay what now, he thought to
himself. Marcus glared at him. He went over behind his desk and sat down in
his chair.
"Eighteen minutes, twenty-eight seconds," commented Nabiki, dabbing at
the blood on her injured lip. "You almost made a liar out of me, Ranma."
"Shut up, Nabiki," growled Marcus. He leaned back, tapping the tips
of his finger lightly together before him. "Well, Saotome?" he finally said.
"Let Akane go!" replied Ranma.
Marcus arched a brow. "No," he curtly said.
Ranma did a double take, not sure of what he just heard. "Did you say
no?"
"Yes, I did."
"Then obviously you don't want these."
"And obviously you don't want Akane to live either."
Marcus motioned for the others to step aside, letting Ranma see Akane.
Kasumi held her head back, a sharp knife placed at her throat. She moaned as
Kasumi pulled back a bit more.
"No!" shouted Ranma.
"Yes, Ranma. I'll have Akane killed if you don't surrender to me
now."
"Don't do it, Ranma!" Akane managed to say. Kasumi pressed the blade
closer to her neck, silencing her.
"As you can see, Ranma. You have no choice in this." Marcus stood
leaning threateningly towards him. "Now, give me those vials."
Ranma's eyes darted around the room. It looked hopeless; no chance of
escape with Akane's life hanging precariously in the balance. Suddenly he
narrowed an eye.
"I don't believe you," he said.
Marcus leaned back. "What?"
"I don't think you'll sacrifice this stuff. It's much too important."
"You doubt I'd have Kasumi kill Akane?" Renon said in disbelief.
Ranma shook his head. "Didn't say that, but I'll say this. If you
do, I'll crush these vials then I'll kill you."
Renon could see the seriousness in Ranma's eyes, knowing quite well
that he could succeed with his threat. He smiled sitting back down again.
"Hm," he sounded glancing back at Akane. "Mexican Standoff. I have
what you want, you have what I want. We could stand here all day, but I and
this family have things to do."
"Looks like their going to be delayed, Marcus."
"Maybe." Renon paused then sat forward. "I'll make a deal with you,
Ranma."
"A deal?"
"I'll release Akane. She'll go free, no tricks on my part. She can
run right out of here."
"And in return?"
"You give me those vials. . . . and yourself."
"No, Ranma. Don't do it-- URK!"
Kasumi pressed the blade into the surface of Akane's skin drawing a
thin sliver of blood.
"Stop it, Kasumi!" cried Ranma.
"Well, what'll it be boy?" asked Marcus grinning triumphantly.
Ranma knew there was only one choice he could make.
"Release her," he replied.
Nabiki and Kasumi undid the straps. Suddenly Akane pushed Nabiki
aside, dashing over to Ranma before anybody could react. She hugged him,
burying her face into his chest. The gang began to close on them, but Marcus
told them to stop.
"Saotome," trailed Renon giving him a knowing look.
Ranma grimaced. They wouldn't survive another fight. No, Akane had
to escape and get back to Cologne. With some luck, together they'd figure a
way to rescue them all from Marcus's merciless grip.
"Akane, you've got to go," he said.
She looked up. "No! Ranma I can't leave you here. Marcus will--."
"This is not the time to argue with me, Akane! You've got to get out
of here before it's too late."
Akane gazed deep into his eyes, seeing the concern for her in them.
She blinked away her tears then pulled herself up, kissing him passionately.
Several of the gang started to take advantage of the opportunity, but much to
their surprise Marcus waved them back. He allowed the couple their first, and
quite possibly last kiss together, knowing that he had won. Ranma held her
tight. Out of view, he slipped a vial into one of Akane's dress pockets.
They parted, Akane stepping back.
"Ranma," she said lightly.
"Go, Akane," he replied.
Akane shook, wishing there was some way to erase all that had
happened; a bad dream she'd finally wake up from.
"I love you," she said moving for the door. "I'll be back. I'll be
back for all of you!"
"Go," pleaded Ranma.
Akane stopped at the doorway, glaring at Renon. "Don't you hurt
them," she growled.
"I wouldn't dream of it," he replied.
She bolted down the hall.
"Ryoga, Mousse, follow her," ordered Marcus.
"Hey!" shouted Ranma.
"Insurance, Ranma. In case you try anything foolish."
Ranma relaxed watching the monitors. Akane appeared on the cameras,
running down the walkway towards the electric gates. Marcus opened them with
a switch under his desk, and Akane ran off watched closely by Ryoga and
Mousse.
"Well she's gone," Renon said. He stood up coming around to stand in
front of Ranma. "The vials."
Ranma hesitated, then reluctantly placed them into Renon's out
stretched palm. Marcus stepped aside, motioning him towards the empty
operating table. Under the close eye of the others, he went over and laid
down. As they strapped Ranma in, Renon stood over him.
"Very noble of you, Saotome," he said. "Such chivalry is not seen in
most young people nowadays."
Ranma turned his head away. "Let's get this over with," he snapped.
Renon shrugged. Kasumi handed him the vial meant for Akane. "Open,
please," he said.
The sap tasted sweet, it's thick consistency pooling at the back of
Ranma's throat. With a hard swallow he downed it all, staring up at the
ceiling awaiting its effect to occur.
Ranma found himself think about Akane. Her soft features filled his
mind, the kiss they shared making him feel less afraid of what was about to
happen. A cold sensation coursed through his stomach, the effects of the sap
beginning to show. His vision blurred, a dull throb beating at his temples,
but Ranma continued to think about Akane.
"I love you," he could her saying again. It was to late for him to
tell her how much he loved her now, regretting never having admitting it to
her those many chances before. The sap began to take hold, Ranma making one
final defiant gesture before slipping under.
"Akane. . ."

To Be Continued

-----