Ranma 1/2 Fan Fiction ❯ Lost Memories ❯ Volume 05 ( Chapter 6 )

Disclaimer: I hereby disclaim that Ranma ½ does not belong to me. It belongED (Soon I shall take over muahahaha) to Viz Communications and got some more ownership and of course Rumiko-san. A late disclaim is better than nothing ^.~

Title: Lost Memories

Summary: A boy with a forgotten past unexpectedly arrived and came to live together with the Tendo and Saotome family. How will he affect their lives? And how will they affect his life? How will his past affect them when it came to light? A Ranma and Akane pairing.

Acknowledgements: Through the course of doing chapter 27, a woman's insight was greatly needed. Being a boy, however hard I tried to put myself into a mother's shoes, I could only provide half the meaning of "a mother's love". It felt incomplete. So with deep thanks to my cousin Izzana for her wonderful ideas and combining with my own, I was able to finish the main content of chapter 27. And also my friend Jin Cheng from poly, who offered some good points for both chapter 27 and 30. Without them, these chapters would not have been completed.

A/N: Made several minor editing to chapter 20 plus corrected my wrong spelling of sempai to senpai in vol 3 and 4 (well it can either be n or m. But since it is spelled ganbatte and not gambatte [do your best/work hard] I shall follow n version for senpai as well).

Volume 05

Chapter 25: Ranma's fantasy

Chapter 26: Aftermath

Chapter 27: Dreams

Chapter 28: Purezento

Chapter 29: Introspection

Chapter 30: Day of reckoning

Previously in volume 4 Ranma had lost control of himself as his body initiates his desired fantasy towards Akane. And with no one left to stop him… Akane will be the subject of whatever Ranma fantasized towards his iinazuke.

Scene: Tendo Dojo, living room,

Ranma: (Charges at Akane) Akane! (Thinking) I can't do this to Akane! Never! Not in front of everyone! Kami-sama please help me! Please! (Yelling to himself in his mind) Helppppp somebody! Akane run! Someone take her away! I don't want…

Kasumi: Ranma-kun… Akane…

Akane: (Softly) Ranma…

Ranma: (Snatches Akane away from Kasumi and Nabiki and held her to himself in a tight embrace)

Akane: (Gasps)

Nabiki: (Shocked) (Watches dumbly)

Kasumi: (Feeling helpless) Akane…

Rukawa: (Stares at the scene) … (Thinking) What's going on? What's wrong with Ranma?

Genma: (Unconscious)

Soun: (Wails) Waaaaahh! (Thinking) What is he going to do to my baby daughter!

Akane: (Horrified) (Thinking) What is he going to do to me… Ranma… (Close to tears)

Chapter 25: Ranma's fantasy

Scene: Tendo Dojo, living room, mid afternoon,

Ranma: Akane… (Pull Akane gently away from his embrace and held her by the shoulders) (Looks at Akane fondly in the eyes) Akane… I'm sorry for all the times that I had hurt you in more ways than ones. My insults… My actions… Everything. I'm sorry for being a jerk and kept calling you uncute, sexless, unfeminine… But deep within those hurtful lies that may seem so true but they aren't… They really aren't Akane, because the real honest truth is that aishite-iru no sa, Akane… [I love you, Akane…] (Thinking) Noooooooooo! Don't tell her! I don't want to find out that she doesn't love me like I do. (A/N: Ranma is more concerned with Akane's opinion than he is prepared to admit)

Nabiki: (Thinking) Huh? Is he…

Akane: (Trembling voice) Ra-Ranma, you love me? (Thinking) You're admitting your love to me? I thought you want… Want to… (Tears start dropping down her cheeks)

Soun: (Lips curling upwards) (Thinking) Yatta! Way to go Ranma! Finally you're going to confess your stubborn love to Akane. I have always had faith in you, Ranma-kun. (Tears stream down his cheeks in extreme happiness)

Rukawa: (Lying on the floor, on his stomach, watching the whole scene, puzzled) (Mutters) Why were they all scared of Ranma telling Akane how much he loves her. Can't believe I tried to help them stop him.

Ranma: Yes Akane, hajimete atta ano hi kara, omee dake o [From the day we first met, I have love only you]. When you befriended me, I didn't want to but when you smile to me on that fateful day asking if I wanna be friends… My world stopped spinning and you became my world. I cannot deny the fact that without you by my side, I'll be lost even if we were constantly arguing. You gave me a sense of purpose other than just being the strongest martial artist.

Akane: (Crying) (Thinking) Oh Ranma… You love me since the day we first met…

Nabiki: (Thinking) What! Of all the wildest fantasies in the world people could have… And this baka fantasizes about confessing how he loves Akane to Akane. Mattaku… [Jeez…] And we were all afraid of that. Unbelievable. He must really be terrified to admit to Akane his true feelings although he deeply desires to share his feelings with her till he actually imagine and fantasize about doing it. Sheesh. Ranma-kun is hopeless. He REALLY should have dream to be rich so he could pay me his debts.

Kasumi: (Put a hand on her cheek, blushing) Ara ara how romantic. (Thinking) I'm so relieved that Ranma-kun just wants to tell his true feelings to Akane. Mā, I should've believed in Ranma-kun and not think otherwise. Hopefully, maybe they can finally reveal their true feelings without interruption from anyone. Akane-chan needs to take a step to grow up, and it must come from you Ranma-kun, and vice-versa.

Ranma: I fell headlong into loving you no matter how hard I try to resist that desire Akane. (Thinking) I don't want to be rejected… Aw man I made her cried. I'm scaring her!

(A/N: Yup. Ranma's wildest fantasy is to let his heart expresses himself to Akane. Sorry folks if you were wondering about something else. Tsk tsk hahaha! This is Ranma we're talking about. The guy who planned out a lame revenge towards Nabiki when she was his iinazuke)

Akane: (Recomposes herself) (Sadly) Ranma, you did not want to?

Ranma: (Look downwards) I felt that I don't deserve to have you, Akane, because of my curse. I'm a half man after all. (Thinking) She… Akane…

Akane: Oh Ranma… It didn't…

Ranma: It does matter to me, Akane. (Thinking) Argh why must I cut her off! Did she want to say my curse did not matter to her?

Akane: (Starts to frown) (Thinking) He's always thinking of himself.

Ranma: Because my curse mattered to you, Akane. I'm a pervert to your eyes because of my curse. I'm a couple all by myself because of my curse. You're put off because of my curse… (Thinking) She's getting angry… I guess it was too much to ask.

Akane: (Stops frowning immediately) (Softly) Ranma… (Thinking) You hate your curse… You want to find a cure all these times… Because of me? For me?

Ranma: (Looks up) (Gazes into Akane's brown eyes with his own blue eyes) (Thinking) So beautiful…

Akane: I'm so sorry, Ranma. (Hugs Ranma)

Ranma: … (Thinking) Huh? What is she sorry about?

Akane: I didn't exactly mean it that way Ranma. Well sometimes you were like a pervert and all.

Ranma: … (Thinking) …

Akane: But most of those reproaches were all in the heat of the moment…

Ranma: … (Thinking) Is Akane saying that she doesn't mind my curse… For real? Akane… She liked me too?

Akane: I love you Ranma. Your curse never did hinder me from loving you. Although your insensitivity hurts me so much, but you were always there for me as long as I can remember. And that counts a lot for me… Because of that it didn't matter what a jerk you are, you being there for me shows how much you truly care, how concerned you are for me. (Starts to cry again) (Feels Ranma shaking slightly)

Ranma: … (Thinking) Ahh... I feel clear-headed now. (Releases his hold on Akane and massage his temple)

Akane: (Feels Ranma letting go of his hands over her) (Thinking) Hmm?

Ranma: (Thinking) Akane loved me. Akane loved me. (Blinks) Akane loved me. She said so herself. (Feeling the hug Akane is giving him) Hey I can finally feel my body now. (Watches himself shaking his fist) (Sensing everyone in the room gazing intently at him) Everyone is watching me… Ack! Shimatta! I-I had confessed my feelings to Akane in front of them all! Sonna [No way] Kami-sama… This is so embarrassing… (Panics) (Removes himself from Akane) (Screams) Waaahh! Iiiiiiieeeeee daaaaaa! (Thinking) This is so awkward! How could I have said I love her in front of everyone?! Now they all know I love her. I can't live… (Jumps around the room crazily and runs away)

Akane: (Softly) Ranma… (Watches forlornly as Ranma ran away) Dōshite… Naze da? Why are you running away? (Starts to feel upset)

Kasumi: (Take Akane's hands and held them with her own) Daijobou Akane. [It's all right Akane] Ranma-kun just needs to be alone by himself. He is just embarrassed by the whole incident. (Smiles) Don't worry.

Akane: Oneechan…

Nabiki: He should be.

Akane: Nabiki oneechan.

Nabiki: Ranma-kun is too shy, Akane. Knowing that he had told you how he feels towards you in front of us, it is too embarrassing for him to handle after all the times he had denied liking you. He has a really weird sense of pride. That's a guy ego for you. Or Ranma-kun no ego. [Ranma's ego] He's too stubborn to admit it.

Kasumi: Don't think badly of him now Akane-chan. This kind of thing is not his strongest point. (Pats Akane's shoulder) Go console Ranma-kun, Akane. I should think that he won't be able to face anyone unless you approaches him first.

Nabiki: (Grins) Yeah imoto-chan. You should be honored. (Winks) Ranma-kun even fantasizes about telling you how he feels towards you. It shows he deeply cares for you but he just doesn't know how to express himself. (Thinking) And is too timid and scared to do that.

Akane: Sou da na. [I guess so]

Kasumi: Ara ara. I had just tidied up the room. Oto-san daijobou?

Soun: (Grins widely) (Arms on his hips) Hahaha I'm perfectly fine, Kasumi-chan. I feel young again. (Thinking) The joining of the two schools is bright now. Ne Saotome-kun. (Tries to revive an unconscious Genma) Saotome-kun.

Rukawa: (Gets up to his feet, rubbing his head) (Thinking) I have no idea what's going on.

Nabiki: Now Akane, this is what you should do…

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Chapter 26: Aftermath

Scene: Tendo Dojo, roof,

Ranma: (Thinking) I can't believe I actually told Akane how I felt… Why did I run away? (Cover his face with his hands) I bet now Akane think I'm an insincere jerk or something like that. (Sigh) It was so horrible… To have everyone watching me… As I reveal the deepest secret in my heart. A secret that I had been denying since the day I met her. How am I going to face everyone now… Oji-san and oyaji may even be preparing a wedding at this very moment. Chiku'so!

Akane's voice: Ranma. Ranma, doko ga? [Where are you, Ranma?]

Ranma: (Peers down the courtyard) Up here Akane… (Waves his hand) (Sigh)

Akane: (Looks up and sees Ranma) (Takes a ladder and climbs up to reach the roof) (Slight brush creep up her cheeks) Ne Ranma…

Ranma: (Uneasily) Hey Akane. Ore wa… [I…]

Akane: There's no need to say anything Ranma. Wakatteru yo. [I understand]

Ranma: Eh you do?

Akane: (Nods) You're embarrassed and all by the whole thing.

Ranma: (Looks downwards) (Sigh) (Thinking) I'm pathetic.

Akane: But I'm glad it happened Ranma.

Ranma: Huh?

Akane: I'm really glad to find out how you really feel for me Ranma. Because I feared that you don't really care for me. I was scared that all the times you protect me, rescue me, were all because it is your job, a 24/7 job, since I'm your fiancée and to maintain your honor. It is relieving to be assured that the person that I adore feels the same way as I do. (Touches and holds Ranma's warm hand)

Ranma: A-Akane… (Thinking) If she wants me to say I love her… I can't. I just can't muster those words to Akane directly.

Akane: (Blushes) I love you Ranma. I even love the way you annoy me. I knew I love you but deep in my mind I keep rejecting my feelings. I always need to be in control of myself. I couldn't admit to myself that I actually care about you. And falling for you when I don't want to make me feel like I'm losing control of myself. It felt like a weakness to me. But I was wrong. To love you doesn't necessary mean losing control. It simply means I can share my life with someone and vice versa. Someone special…

Ranma: (Staring down) (Thinking) I'm sorry Akane. But I don't think I can admit my feelings to you, not yet. However much I want to.

Akane: (Holds Ranma by the shoulders, directing him to face her) I know you might not be ready for this. I know you may never be able to admit your feelings to me nor to yourself for that matter. I understand Ranma. Because I went through all that myself too. So let's just keep it that way okay… We can pretend just now never did happen… Until you're ready okay? (Starts to blush)

Ranma: (Fidgeting uneasily) (Thinking) Akane doesn't seem herself…

Akane: (Embraces Ranma abruptly) Mmm…

Ranma: (Surprised) (Calms down) (Hugs Akane back) (Smells her hair) (Thinking) She's so direct… I'm not complaining.

Akane: (Thinking) Oneechan's advice is working. I guess she's right. Ranma is not ready.

Ranma: (Pulling Akane away from himself) Er… Thanks Akane.

Akane: (Smiles warmly)

Ranma: (Thinking) Kawaii… Okay! It's decided! Say it! Say it! YOSH! I'm a man! I shall admit it now or never! A man among men is never scare of anything! Yosh! (Breathes in deeply)

Akane: I must go first Ranma. I plan to cook dinner for you.

Ranma: Har?! (Air gushes out of him in a split second) (Scared) (Uttering) A-Akane. There's no need to kil-I mean you don't really have to cook for me.

Akane: (Frowns slightly) (Thinking) He hasn't even taste it and he already judged it. The jerk. Patience. Patience. I'll make sure tonight dinner is most appetizing for Ranma and he will admit it is delicious! (Begins to speak) Is okay, Ranma. It isn't troubling for me at all. I will gladly put all my effort just to cook for you. (Smiles) Ja Ranma. (Climbs down the ladder)

Ranma: (Thinking) That's what I'm afraid of… (Sees the smile) (Begins to speak) H-hai Akane. (Thinking) Kawaii. (Lies on his back) (Smiles) Akane… (Blurts out) Shimatta I forgot to admit I like her. (Smiles disappears instantly upon realizing) Che I'm not gonna harm my stomach again because of her cooking. What can I do? (Pauses) No. That's not important… (A show of iron will plasters on his face) (Clenches his right hand into a fist and vigorously shaking it) I must stand up for myself. I must tell Akane I love her. I must tell it all by myself without the effects of any drug. I can do it! I shall do it! (Pauses) (Grimaces and clutches his stomach) But how could I tell her that if she gonna kill me with her cooking! Arghhh! Why is my life so hard! Che! It doesn't matter. I already admit I love her back then. Now the most important thing is to survive! Yes that's right!

Scene: Tendo Dojo, first level,

Nabiki: Everything all right with Ranma-kun, Akane?

Akane: Yes Nabiki oneechan. It was perfect. (Roll up her sleeves)

Nabiki: (Raises an eyebrow) What are you doing? (Thinking) A sign of trouble. Don't tell me…

Akane: Cooking dinner Nabiki oneechan.

Nabiki: (Pales) … (Thinking) Shoot! I totally forgot about that.

Akane: I'll be busy in the kitchen, if you need me for anything. (Enters the kitchen)

Nabiki: (Thinking) It is still a few hours away to dinner and she is already starting… (Peeks in the kitchen)

Akane: (Opens out a cookbook, reading it for a moment) (Takes out a packet of dried udon noodles from the fridge)

Nabiki: (Thinking) Udon noodles ka? That's pretty straightforward to cook… (Looks at Akane) If she managed to add in all the respective ingredients correctly. (Shakes her head) (Moves away) (Thinking) I should be on a diet anyway.

Scene: Tendo Dojo, kitchen, fifteen minutes later,

Kasumi: (Enters and sees Akane working fervently in the kitchen) Ara Akane. (Thinking) Oh dear. She wants to cook dinner tonight.

Akane: (Soaking udon noodles in boiling water) (Cutting onions) (Looks up) Oneechan.

Kasumi: (Smiles) (Observes the situation) (Thinking) Noodles checked. Boiled water checked. Sliced naruto checked. Ara they look liked they had been minced not sliced. Leek… (Startled) (Begins to speak) Ara Akane, you're supposed to use green onions not ordinary onions for udon noodles.

Akane: Sou ka. [Is that so] Arigato oneechan. I thought it doesn't matter as long as they're onions.

Kasumi: (Mentally sigh to herself)

Akane: (Refers to her book) (Places udon noodles into a sieve and rinses it with hot water while still referring to her book) (Mutters) Hmm noodle sauce… (Grabs an oyster sauce bottle and begin pouring the contents into the prepared boiled water) 1:8 huh.

Kasumi: (Notices the mistake) Ara ara Akane-chan. (Stops Akane) The noodle sauce is Ninben Tsuyu no moto not oyster sauce.

Akane: Ju-just a slight mistake heh. (Nervous smile)

Kasumi: (Nods her head calmly) (Thinking) Ara ara, I wonder what will the udon taste like now. (Takes out the bottle)

Akane: So Ninben Tsuyu no moto it is. (Grabs the sauce bottle from Kasumi eagerly) (Pours the sauce into the boiled water) (Thinking) 1 proportion of sauce to 8 of water. Seems too little eh. Later Ranma can't taste the sauce because is too low in concentration. Never mind let me add a bit more to make it savorlier.

Kasumi: (Sees the sauce being added at an overkill rate) (Anxiously) Ara Akane. You can stop adding now.

Akane: (Shrugs) Okay oneechan. (Thinking) It doesn't seem enough…

Kasumi: (Put her hand in front of her mouth) (Softly) Oh dear… Poor Ranma-kun. (Thinking) Poor us.

Akane: (Places the Ninben Tsuyu no moto bottle back to its place)

Kasumi: Ne Akane, I think its better to start again. (Smiles nervously)

Akane: Oneechan, dōshita no? [What's wrong, oneechan?]

Kasumi: Akane, perhaps you might want to try tasting it first…

Akane: Eh… (Looks at Kasumi) (Turns to her concoction) (Dips in a spoon) (Pauses) (Tastes the contents off the spoon) Ekk! (Heno Heno Moheji face) (Clutches her throat) (Drop to the floor)

Kasumi: Ara ara. (Holds on to Akane by her shoulders) Akane daijobou?

Akane: I-I'm okay now oneechan. (Rolls up her sleeves even higher) I'm gonna make sure Ranma say its delicious!

Kasumi: (Smiles) I will help you imoto-chan. Ganbatte masu.

------

Scene: Tendo Dojo, living room, three hours later, dinner time,

Soun: (Shifting on his cushion uneasily, dreading the dinner of doom)

Nabiki: (Thinking) Ranma-kun eats and faint and dinner will end. And a phone call to a sushi restaurant seems tempting.

Ranma: (Thinking) I'm not gonna eat her cooking. I'm not gonna eat her cooking. I'm not gonna eat her cooking.

Genma: (Thinking) As her fiancé, Ranma must taste Akane-kun no [Akane's] cooking first.

Rukawa: (Thinking) This is a rather intense atmosphere…

Ranma: (Thinking) I won't be the scapegoat! I won't be the scapegoat! I won't be the scapegoat! Absolutely not!

Akane: (Enters the room carrying a tray with bowls of hot steaming tsumiki udon, smiling) Everyone been waiting long?

Soun&Genma: (Smiles nervously) Ah not at all Akane. (Thinking) Once Ranma tried and suffered from the poisonous dinner, Akane will know that the food is inedible. Ah such is the dangerous challenges a martial artist must face and overcome. I'm so proud of my son-in-law/son.

Ranma: (Moodily) We don't mind waiting longer Akane.

Akane: (Frowns) (Thinking) Here I slave over to cook dinner for his bottomless stomach and he doesn't even appreciate it, ano otoko.

Kasumi: (Following behind Akane carrying a tray with bowls of tsumiki udon, smiling) (Starts to lay the table with dinner)

Akane: (Serves the bowls from her tray onto the table)

Soun,Genma&Nabiki: (Looks at the udon bowls nervously) (Thinking) They look edible… And incredibly smell delicious as well. But knowing Akane's cooking… It is always safer to let Ranma-kun try it first.

Ranma: (Thinking) Oyaji and oji-san will definitely force me to be the guinea pig again. Hah! I am well prepared for this.

Soun&Genma: Ran…

Ranma: Te…

Rukawa: Itadakimasu. (Takes the pair of chopsticks and starts to dig in)

Soun&Genma: Heh. (Thinking) A volunteer. (Eyebrows raised in surprised at the unexpected divine intervention) Dozo, dozo. Rukawa-kun. [Please do]

Ranma: (Thinking) Shimatta! I can't allow another poor victim to suffer from Akane's cooking. (Begins to speak) Matte Rukawa!

Rukawa: Nani ga?

Ranma: Do you want to find out about your past?

Everyone except Nabiki: (Widen eyes) (Thinking) Ranma-kun knows Rukawa-kun's past? (A/N: Actually should put Rukawa-kun no past. Heh heh. Looks weird when adding 's after the -san, -kun, -chan and -sama prefix. That's the correct way. But I'm scared readers will be confused and read the "no" as English "no" not Japanese "no". "No" is like 's, a belonging to the noun said before "no". In other cases is like watashi no kazoku meaning my family or anta no kazoku meaning your family. Ore no kazoku and omae no kazoku also have the same meaning. Is just more likely to be used by a guy. Anata mean "you" and are frequently used by girls and considered feminine speech. Those "scary" women for example Nabiki will usually use anta which is considered a harsher form of you for females usage. Cologne, Shampoo and Ukyo went all the way, using omae, which is considered rather harsh. Akane frequently used anta and anata to Ranma depending on the situations. A nice Ranma = anata. An annoying Ranma = anta. While Ranma pronounces omee instead of omae (Osaka slang). Anata can is not only for female use. It is also known to be the polite reference. Some so-called gentle/soft fellows who are polite will use anata. There is also kimi which is possibly a polite "you". Usually used by guys who refer themselves as boku and also frequently used by policemen and teachers)

Nabiki: (Thinking) I have a feeling that Ranma is too nice for his own good.

Rukawa: Ranma, you know? Tell me.

Ranma: (Cross his arm across his chests, showing a very thoughtful expression with his eyes closed) If you want to know your past then you better don't eat Akane's cooking. If you eat, you won't get a chance to ever know your past. Her cooking is unbelievably inedi…

Akane: (Swipes down a saucepan onto Ranma's head)

#Ka-plonk.#

Ranma: Ow! Nani shiyagaru! [Whaddya do that for!] (Glares at Akane)

Soun,Genma,&Kasumi: (Sweatdrop)

Nabiki: (Thinking) He meant well but his motor mouth could do with some modifications.

Rukawa: (Thinking) What did he mean by that?

Akane: Baka. What do you mean by that! (Smiles sweetly to Rukawa) Why don't you taste it first Rukawa-kun? (Confidently) Let the others see… How perfectly DELICIOUS the udon noodles are.

Rukawa: Eh? Hai Akane-san. (Begins to look at the udon noodles uneasily) (Thinking) What did Ranma mean by that? Now I'm starting to have fears of eating these noodles.

Kasumi: (Sees the worried look on Rukawa's face) Ara Rukawa-kun, the noodles are per…

Akane: (Interrupts Kasumi) Oneechan just let Rukawa-kun eat it. (Thinking) I can't believe that everyone has no faith in my cooking. And it isn't mine for that matter.

Rukawa: (Moves his mouth close to the bowl) (Thinking) Okay here goes. Come on it can't be that bad. (Leads the noodles by his chopsticks into his mouth) #Sipping sounds…#

Everyone minus Ranma: (Watches Rukawa silently)

Ranma: (Watches Rukawa, expecting him to drop dead any moment)

Rukawa: (Looks up) Eh. It's delicious Akane-san.

Akane: (Smiles triumphantly)

Soun&Genma: Sou ka! Itadakimasu! (Begin to start eating)

Soun: Mmm… #Sipping sounds…# (Tears roll down his cheeks) My youngest daughter finally masters the art of cooking. I am so happy!

Ranma: (Stares at Akane) Is-is edible?

Soun: Nabiki, you should start to learn to cook too.

Nabiki: I prefer to use the phone for such matters, oto-san. Itadakimasu. (Tastes the noodles) (Realizes) Ne Akane, you sure you cook this? (Thinking) If I know any better it tastes just like Kasumi's.

Akane: (Face reddens) Eh heh heh iie. [No] (Looks down) Oneechan cooked them.

Soun,Genma&Nabiki: Heh? How come?

Akane: I repeat cooking dinner ten times trying to get it correct but they all ended up disastrously and there was little time remaining and little udon noodles left too after all that, so I gave up and Kasumi oneechan start cooking them for dinner.

Rukawa: T-ten times…?

Ranma: Ah hah! No wonder the food look and smell edible in the first place unlike your…

#Blam! Thud.#

Akane: (Scowling, vein present on her temple) Don't be so rude jerk. (Thinking) Honestly he's such a jerk. I can't believe I love him in the first place.

Ranma: (Looks at Akane upside down) Itai…

Akane: Hmph! I'm never gonna cook for you anymore.

Ranma: Oh THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR MERCY.

Akane: (Shaking her clenched fists, her eyebrows twitch aggressively with annoyance) RANMA NO BAKA!

#KA-POW!#

Soun&Genma: (Digging in their udon noodles silently) (Thinking) I guess preparing a wedding tomorrow wouldn't be wise.

Kasumi: Ara ara Akane. You should not hit Ranma-kun.

Akane: (Crosses her arms and faces away from Ranma) Hmph. He deserves it.

Rukawa: (Thinking) I have further learned that it is unhealthy to criticize Akane's feminine abilities and attributes.

Nabiki: (Thinking) He just had to open his mouth and comment tactlessly.

Ranma: (Silently eats his dinner, with bumps and bruises visible on every part of his body) (Thinking) She is just so uncute! No one is crazy enough to fall for her. ABSOLUTELY NO ONE!

Akane: (Thinking) He is such an insensitive jerk. No girls would be patient enough to handle him. DEFINITELY NO GIRLS!

Ranma&Akane: (Sigh) (Thinking) Except me. Baka ore/'atashi wa. (Eyes contact for a fleeting moment and heads turn away in response) Hmph!

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Chapter 27: Dreams

Scene: Sakura Street Shopping District, two months later, Thursday evening,

Rukawa: (Heading back towards the Tendo Dojo, hands in pocket) (Thinking) Man, they really work me off like mad today. (Stretches various parts of his body, smoothening the aches) Is worth it anyway. I've already earned 60000 yen in total though it is still a long way from compensating Tendo oji-san for repairing his dojo. Tendo oji-san spent 310000 yen on rebuilding the dojo with help from Nabiki. (Sigh) With my current wage of 1500 yen per day, this will take me roughly half a year more to pay for the damages. And I've been staying as a guest for free. Great… (Realizes he had stopped in front of a shop) Hmm this looks rather familiar. (Reading to himself) Hmm… Kanzaki's Clothing Shop… Kasumi-san… (Reminisces)

(Start of flashback sequence)

Scene: Inside Kanzaki's Clothing,

Kasumi: (Comes out of the changing cubicle) (Smiling) What do you think Rukawa-kun? (Turns around 360º)

Rukawa: (Sees Kasumi wearing the sleeveless creamy white summer dress with a floral pattern along with frills at the shoulders with the décolletage displaying out her neck and hollow of her throat and the skirt ending just after her knees) You…Er…Is…Look…Wow! (Thinking) Kasumi looks really stunning. Actually she is attractive regardless of the clothes she wears. I hardly think that any beautiful dresses in the world can overcome her natural beauty.

Kasumi: My, Rukawa-kun. How very eloquent of you. (Thinking) The dress is loose and comfortable with light, soft fabric. It would undoubtedly be practical to have it when the 'harsh' summer heat arrived. (Sigh) I wish I could buy it but... My family comes first even though it has been ages since I last had a new dress.

Rukawa: Eh heh heh. (Scratches the back of his head)

Saleswoman: Well doesn't your girlfriend look pretty in it? Why don't you buy it for her?

Rukawa: Huh oh. Eh I think we will think about it first. After all there are other clothes shops to visit right.

Kasumi: Hai. (Goes into the changing cubicle)

Saleswoman: Your girlfriend loves that dress.

Rukawa: (Face reddens) I can see that.

Saleswoman: Come on buy it for her.

Rukawa: … (Thinking) She is persuasive.

Saleswoman: Come on. Buy it for her. Your aijin [Dear] really loves it.

Rukawa: … (Sweating) (Thinking) Aijin? I have no money even if I want to…

Saleswoman: And she looks really gorgeous in it don't you think so.

Rukawa: I know I know. She looks gorgeous in anything.

Kasumi: (Comes out of the changing cubicle holding the dress in her arms) (Smiling)

Rukawa: (Takes the dress from Kasumi and furtively noting the size before handing it back to the saleswoman) Arigato gozai masu.

Kasumi: (Slightly embarrassed) Arigato gozai masu. (Bows slightly)

Rukawa: (Scoots Kasumi out of the shop edgily)

Kasumi: (Giggles) (Thinking) Rukawa-kun looks so comical when he gets nervous. (Giggles) (Recalls Rukawa's conversation with the saleswoman) He thinks I'm beautiful. (Smiles)

Saleswoman: (Bewildered) (Mutters) What was that all about?

(End of flashback sequence)

Rukawa: (Mutters) She loves that dress. (Shoves his hands further into his pockets) (Looks down on the pavement) (Thinking) Hmm should I buy for her? Eh? Where did that come from? (Gazes through the mannequins on the display window) There it is. The dress. (Touches the glass window with the tip of his fingers) Still on display after all this time. Hmm it seemed more beautiful when Kasumi-san wore it on that day. (Lips curl upwards slightly) Heh I still remember the size of the dress that she wore. I guess noting the size that time did come in handy after all. Strange. Did I unconsciously want to buy for her at that time? (Pictures Kasumi smiling serenely in his mind) Kasumi-san deserves a little gift without a doubt. Set. I will go buy for her. (Pauses) Tendo oji-san and the rest might assume wrongly if I suddenly bought a gift for Kasumi-san out of the blue. And the action might suggest wrongly to Kasumi-san too. Well I do like her but not in the sense of… Why not? Kasumi-san is… Kawaii, just like… (Pauses) Like… Like… (Sigh) At any rate Kasumi-san is a great companion. My friendship with her means a lot to me. I don't want to lose it. That is what I am to her too. Anyway hmm the dress is just a friendly gift to show my appreciation towards Kasumi-san kindness to me… (Pauses) I feel like I'm lying to myself. I want it to be more than a friendly gift. I actually hope… Nah I will have none of that. Friendly gift it is. And tomorrow night I shall bring my "adopted" family out for dinner too. I'm grateful for all their help when I was in a bad shape. Even Saotome oji-san helps to train me in martial arts during my free time with Tendo oji-san. (Smiles to himself) (Enters the shop) (Sigh) I wonder how is my real family going through now…

------

Scene: Tendo Dojo, living room, dinner time,

Everyone: Itadakimasu.

Kasumi: (Sitting down, elbows on the table, fingers crossed and supporting her chin, staring down at her food) (Thinking) Rukawa-kun is later than usual today. I hope nothing happened to him.

Nabiki: (Thinking) Oneechan seemed rather worried. (Smirks) Bad Rukawa-kun for coming back late.

Soun: Ne Kasumi, aren't you eating?

Kasumi: Hai oto-san.

Ranma: Ne Kasumi oneechan, this okonomiyaki is as good as Ucchan's!

Akane: (Thinking) I wish Ranma would compliment my cooking like that. (Sigh)

Kasumi: (Smiles) That's because I ordered it from her, Ranma-kun. (Looks down on her okonomiyaki)

Ranma: Sou ka! This is delicious.

Akane: (Sigh) (Thinking) Ukyo… (Remembering)

(Start of flashback sequence)

Scene: Okonomiyaki Ucchan's, "Closed" sign hanging on the door,

Ranma: (Entering the restaurant with Akane following behind him) Yo Ucchan!

Ukyo: (Sitting on a stool, mourning) Go away Ranchan. (Thinking) Before I beat you up.

Ranma: Matte Ucchan. I just wanna explain about my behavior for that day.

Ukyo: (Scowling) You got one-minute wise guy.

Ranma: You see… The Ranma that sort of chased you away was Rukawa not me. I had nothing to do with it. Rukawa and me switched bodies accidentally because of Gosunkuji. And so he was trying to be me when he brought Akane out.

Akane: (Frowns) (Thinking) Hmph! He made it sound like he would never chase Ukyo away.

Ukyo: What do you take me for? A jackass? Can't you even create a better lie?

Ranma: (Blinks) Huh?

Ukyo: Do'aho. [You moron] No idiot would believe that pathetic lie. (Takes out her battle spatula)

Ranma: Matte, matte Ucchan. Erm. Oh. Y-you can ask Akane if you don't believe me, Ucchan. (Positions Akane in front of him)

Ukyo: (Looks at Akane)

Akane: (Sigh) Ranma is telling the truth Ukyo. He and Rukawa-kun did switched places and only returned back to their own bodies after obā-san helped them yesterday.

Ukyo: (Thinking) Akane-chan would never lie. So Ranchan really didn't chase me away…? (Begins to speak) Honto ka? [Really?]

Akane: Hai.

Ranma: (Grins)

Ukyo: Oh Ranchan! How could I ever doubt you for a second? (Glomps to Ranma) I should have known you would rather date me than Akane-chan.

Ranma: (Nervous) Eh heh heh.

Akane: (Face darkens slightly)

Ukyo: And you wouldn't ever chase your kawaii iinazuke away. And only Rukawa would take Akane-chan out.

Akane: (Face darkening intensely) (Thinking) He said he just wanna explain and apologize. This is getting too far.

Ukyo: (Removes herself from Ranma and starts cooking okonomiyaki) Ne Ranchan, Akane-chan. Here let me treat you a squid okonomiyaki on the house. (Smiles) (Thinking) I'm so happy.

(End of flashback sequence)

Akane: (Thinking) Now everything is back to normal after Ranma explained to her almost two months ago. Ukyo is back being his kawaii iinazuke. (Looks at the half-eaten okonomiyaki on her plate) If only I can cook like her and win Ranma's stomach.

Rukawa's voice: Tadaima.

Kasumi: (Jerks her head up)

Nabiki: (Mutters) Heh…

Rukawa: (Slides open the door and enters the living room, slides the door back close) Konbanwa mina-san. (Sits down) Gomen nasai for being late.

Soun: Yā Rukawa-kun.

Ranma: (Makes some inaudible sounds with his stuffed mouth)

Genma-panda: (Shows a sign reading "Welcome back")

Nabiki: (Watches Kasumi)

Akane: O-kaeri Rukawa-kun.

Kasumi: (Nods) (Smiles) O-kaeri nasai Rukawa-kun. (Passes a plate of okonomiyaki to Rukawa)

Rukawa: (Breaths in deeply) Arigato Kasumi-san. (Thinking) Seeing Kasumi-san smiling never fail to relax me.

Kasumi: (Thinking) I wish he wouldn't call me Kasumi-san anymore. It makes me feel like we are more like strangers Rukawa-kun… It is already a couple of months since we knew each other.

Rukawa: (Thinking) I think I will tell them I'm treating them dinner tomorrow. (Begins to speak) Itadakimasu.

------

Scene: Kasumi's room, night time,

Kasumi: (Sitting on her bed resting her back on the headboard, reading a book)

Rukawa: (Enters the room) (Glances at Kasumi) Ne Kasumi-san… (Prepares his futon for the night)

Kasumi: (Looks up) Ara what is it Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: Do you only read those medical books borrowed from Tofu-sensei? I hardly see you reading other books. (Lies down on his futon, getting ready to sleep)

Kasumi: Well they are rather interesting and I guess it being a habit is also a factor.

Rukawa: Habit?

Kasumi: (Turns back to the book) Well it was my dream to be a doctor when I was young, Rukawa-kun. I want to look after sick people and help them get better. They may be strangers but I could imagine the joy and gratitude in my well-again patients when they recovered and could return to their own families. It feels so heartwarming, so gratifying.

Rukawa: Heh. (Interested) (Sits up again and shifts closer to Kasumi, next to her bed) Why did you choose to stop pursuing that dream? Is there another dream that you want to pursue now Kasumi-san?

Kasumi: (Turns and looks at Rukawa) (Smiles) Well I did find another dream to be just as heartwarming and gratifying too, Rukawa-kun. Maybe even more.

Rukawa: Heh. What is it, Kasumi-san? (Thinking) What could be so influential to change her dream?

Kasumi: I dreamt to be a doctor when I was young. I borrowed medical books from Tofu-sensei because I find the information they provide to be helpful and interesting. Reading them also widens my knowledge on the medical field and informing me what being a doctor is all about and so on. But my dream was dashed when oka-san left.

Rukawa: I'm sorry to hear that. (Thinking) Che I don't know what else to say other than that.

Kasumi: (Shakes her head) When oka-san left us, it was up to me to continue the duties of running the household since I was the only one old enough and had received all the bridal training, tea ceremony and so on from oka-san. It was busy but still I do continue to borrow and read the books as much as I could during my free time. They are helpful since Akane used to get hurt frequently when she was young. I had to stop schooling after high school to concentrate on running the household. Therefore I could not realize my dream to be a doctor any longer.

Rukawa: Did you ever regret that you have to let go of your dream, Kasumi-san? (Thinking) She sacrifices so much yet takes everything in her stride with a smile.

Kasumi: Iie. [No] There is always a reason for everything that happens in life, Rukawa-kun. I may have let go of this dream but in doing that, I discovered a more wonderful dream. (Looks at Rukawa) Well, it is to me. (Smiles) Just like you Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Ara? [Huh?]

Kasumi: You may have lost your memory and greatly wonder about your past. But the outcome may prove that it could actually be a blessing in disguise. We never know Rukawa-kun. Everything in life happens for a reason.

Rukawa: (Doubtfully) I don't know about that Kasumi-san… Anyway please go on.

Kasumi: (Smiles) After finishing high school, I decide to concentrate on looking after oto-san, Nabiki, Akane and our house. Since then as time passed by, slowly I began to realize and understand the loving values of running the household for my family. The fulfillment I felt as I take care of my family is indescribable. As that happened, I began to develop feelings to be a housewife... To have my own home and my own family. I want to be a mother who… (Looks in front of her staring into space)

Rukawa: (Stares at Kasumi as she shares her dream with him) (His mind starts to form images as Kasumi relates)

Kasumi: (Close her eyes as she forms a beautiful scene in her mind) Have her own family to love… …Completing me.

Rukawa: (Envisions Kasumi holding a newborn in her arms, cuddling her baby affectionately, kissing the forehead of her baby)

Kasumi: Looking after them… ...Sensing the gratitude and love emitted within them as I tend to them.

Rukawa: (Visualizes Kasumi devotedly waking up in the middle of the night just to tend to the needs of her crying baby)

Kasumi: Cooking their favorite meals… ...Seeing the smiles on their faces as they enjoyed eating the food that I served.

Rukawa: (Pictures Kasumi in the kitchen, lovingly preparing breakfast for her own family early in the morning before they had woken up)

Kasumi: Taking care of them when they are unwell… ...Seeing the smiles returned to their faces, as they get better. No other feelings can be compared to the relief that I could ever felt.

Rukawa: (Imagines Kasumi dutifully treating her sick child as her maternal instinct kicking in, hoping that she could take away her child's agony for herself so that she could suffer the pain in place for her child)

Kasumi: Providing the best for them… ...Seeing how content they are, you can't help but feel fulfilled.

Rukawa: (Envisages Kasumi faithfully working hard to keep her household up and running everyday for the comfort of her own family)

Kasumi: Listening to their problems… ...Hoping to take away their worries and sadness.

Rukawa: (Reminisces Kasumi providing her encouragement and moral support to a deeply hurt Akane a couple of months back)

Kasumi: To console them when they seek comfort… ...Allowing them to cry their worries and grief out. To see the smiles plaster back on their faces.

Rukawa: (Remembers Kasumi trying her best to keep her family, Soun, Nabiki and Akane strong and well again during the period of hardship when their mother had passed away)

Kasumi: To watch them grow up together with her… ...It is one of the priceless period of one's life as joy, sadness and love are all experienced and shared jointly.

Rukawa: (Views a created mental picture of Kasumi holding hand in hand with her own family as they walk peacefully together at the beach as the sun sets)

Kasumi: Just like oka-san did for us. The thoughts of having my own family become more appealing and blissful ever since I took care of my family, Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: (Feeling the effects of Kasumi's words over him) (Thinking) Kasumi-san is more beautiful and deeper than I thought…

Kasumi: (Open her eyes and faces Rukawa) Yes that is what I want to be Rukawa-kun. A mother. I want to have and love my own children. I wish for a devoted husband who loves and looks after us. I yearn for a family and that I could call my own and love them fully. I want to be a loving mother and a doting wife. I want my family to be happy. Kazoku no shiawase negau no wa, kachou no tsutome to kuchiguse ne. [Wishing the happiness of a family, is said to be the work of the head of the household] That is my dream, Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: (Holds Kasumi's hand with his and gently squeezes) That's wonderful Kasumi-san. I hope you can share your dream with someone who truly cherishes you. (Smiles) (Thinking) People dream for their own benefit. But Kasumi-san, she dreams for the benefit of others. She's so selfless… (Begins to speak) I really truly hope you will find someone deserving of your love Kasumi-san. (Thinking) From every part of my heart not just the bottom.

Kasumi: Arigato Rukawa-kun. (Squeezes Rukawa's hand in return) (Smiles)

Rukawa: Heh Kasumi-san, maybe you had better make sure Tendo oji-san matchmake you properly unlike the other time with Sanzenin-san or just choose one yourself. Or… Maybe you had already made your choice? (Grins) (Thinking) Tofu-sensei heh heh.

Kasumi: (Blushes slightly) (Lays on her bed, on her stomach with her hands on her chin, facing Rukawa) Ara wouldn't you just wonder Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: Must let me be the first to know ne, Kasumi-san.

Kasumi: (Her lips curl up playfully) So how would it be if I choose you to be my partner, Rukawa-kun? (Thinking) Ara… Is this flirting? Iie. It can't be. I'm just joking with Rukawa-kun. Yes. I am just joking with him.

Rukawa: Ara, me? (Notices the mischievous twinkle in Kasumi's eyes) Hmm… I didn't really put much thought on that… (Scratches his head) Heh heh… We will be husband and wife.

Kasumi: That is really very enlightening, Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Okay, okay. Hmm… I'm not even a suitor and was even deemed (Emphasizes) "unworthy"…

Kasumi: (Giggles)

Rukawa: …By Tendo oji-san, yet I was chosen by Kasumi-san over all other eligible handsome bachelors. I guess I would be on top of the world. (Grins)

Kasumi: You would?

Rukawa: I get to be your partner, your husband. Why wouldn't I be Kasumi-san?

Kasumi: (Thinking) I feel somewhat safer and secure when Rukawa-kun said he gets to be my husband instead of me becoming his wife. (Begins to speak) Ara Rukawa-kun. Watashi wa watashi desu yo. [I am just me]

Rukawa: Ne Kasumi-san, you may be just you but yourself is a lovely individual. I like you because you are you who is such a sweet and delightful person. (Pauses) (Face reddens) Ara I meant everyone like you because you are…

Kasumi: (Giggles) I understand Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Yeah is just a slip of the tongue.

Kasumi: (Thinking) Or the heart Rukawa-kun. (Begins to speak) What do you think of me Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: Eh? Well, you're a wonderful friend. I owe you and your family a lot. (Strokes his chin) Come to think of it, sometimes I feel I am a lot closer to you than I am with Ranma.

Kasumi: If that's the case, then why do you still refer me as Kasumi-san?

Rukawa: (Blinks) Eh? I guess I kind of got used to that. Then how do you want me to refer you as?

Kasumi: (Giggles) By my name, Rukawa-kun, what else?

Rukawa: That isn't very helpful.

Kasumi: Maybe you prefer shin'ai na? [Dear?] (Shows a very cute and innocent expression)

Rukawa: Wah Tendo oji-san will be after me by the scruff of my neck ne, Kasumi-san. (Exaggerates a pitiful face) Kawaisō na Rukawa-kun. [Poor Rukawa-kun]

Kasumi: (Giggles)

Rukawa: Oh well, I'll just call you Kasumi, yes?

Kasumi: Hai Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Or Kasumi-chan. (Grins kookily)

Kasumi: (Shows a thoughtful look) Hmm that seems to sound nicer. (Smiles cheekily at Rukawa, wrinkling her nose cutely) (Sees Rukawa lifted up his hand towards her and then pull his hand back quickly)

Rukawa: Hahaha but then, that should be left to your own family and your fated partner. (Thinking) I almost reach out my hand and pull her nose… What's the matter with me? It… It felt so familiar. So right. I ain't making any sense.

Kasumi: Ara Rukawa-kun. (Moves her head closer to Rukawa's) I thought I mentioned I chose you…

Rukawa: (Stunned) (Thinking) Eh? Wasn't she joking? Is she joking about this and all or… I somewhat wish this is for real but…

Kasumi: (Sees a perplexed Rukawa) (Thinking) Maybe Rukawa-kun doesn't feel the same way towards me. (Sigh to herself) (Swallows her own disappointment away) (Strokes Rukawa's hair) (Smiles) Got you there didn't I, Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: (Breaks out of his daze) (Shakes his head) Iie. I was just dreaming our future together that's all heh heh until you spoilt it all Kasumi-san. (Sticks out his tongue) (Thinking) Is she hinting that she likes me or is she just teasing me?

Kasumi: (Smiles) (Thinking) Maybe Rukawa-kun is right. All this may be just a dream for me. (Realizing something) (Acts hurt) Ne Rukawa-kun. I thought we decided to do away with the -san prefix.

Rukawa: Eh. Will take some time getting used to it, (Warmheartedly) Ka-su-mi.

Kasumi: (Giggles) Hai (Affectionately) Ru-ka-wa-kun.

Rukawa: (Grins) (Glances at the clock on the dressing table) Oh man! How time pass by. Tomorrow I gotta come to work very early. Oyasumi nasai, Kasumi. (Gets up and lies on his futon) Sweet dreams. (A/N: Actually the greeting oyasumi nasai is normally not greeted just before sleeping but the culture now is more westernized)

Kasumi: Oyasumi nasai, Rukawa-kun. Sleep tight. (Lies on her bed) (Thinking) I really enjoy and treasure our little conversation each night, Rukawa-kun. Thinking back before I knew you, I wonder why I never felt lonely before. I seemed to have missed a lot of things during growing up. There is someone who accompanies each night who I even find myself teasing at, someone who found a special place in my heart. (Smiles to herself) (Close her eyes)

Rukawa: (Thinking) Living with Kasumi-san all this time… I can't help but be attracted to her. When she smiled and wrinkled her nose at me… It was so adorable. Am I relishing the possibility of being with Kasumi? (Sigh) Who wouldn't fall for her? Just by doing her work each day, she made herself to be endearing. Watching her made me wish to… To… No. Stop thinking of that. (Pauses) (His heart beats faster and throbs weirdly with pain) (His mind starts to pound crazily) I-I am not fit to love… Anyone. (Covers his face with his hands) (Breathing in heavily) Why… Why is there a deep strong emotion within me that reject myself to love anyone. Why do I keep feeling this way whenever I feel something deep for Kasumi-san during these past few weeks? (Tosses on his futon facing Kasumi sleeping on her bed) Why? Is it my past? But it can't be. I have no memory of my past. I can't… Or can I? I lost my memories but it doesn't mean I forgot whatever emotions I have previously experienced. Is it? But why is this emotion stirring deep within me after staying hidden from myself for some time?

Kasumi: (Tosses in her bed)

Rukawa: (Takes a look at Kasumi's sleeping form) (Thinking) Kasumi-san… Is she… Am I… Is this strange emotion of mine surfacing out because I developed feelings for her? W-what really happened in my life before I arrived here? Why do I feel like I am not fit to love? Do I have someone I loved? Is there someone out there who I am in love with? (Remembering Kasumi's words)

(Start of recall sequence)

Kasumi: You may have lost your memory and greatly wonder about your past. But the outcome of this may prove to show that it is actually a blessing in disguise. We never know Rukawa-kun. Everything in life happens for a reason.

(End of recall sequence)

Rukawa: (Thinking) Do I even want to know my past? How dire is it? Is it so terrible that it is better if I forget about my past and start life anew? (Sigh) (Realizes) Shoot! I better go to sleep or I may oversleep tomorrow.

------

Chapter 28: Purezento

Scene: Tendo Dojo, kitchen, Friday morning,

Kasumi: Here's your bento, Rukawa-kun. (Hands out the lunchbox) And breakfast. (Passes a carefully wrapped sandwich)

Rukawa: (Accepts the lunchbox and sandwich) Arigato gozai masu Kasumi. Ne Kasumi.

Kasumi: Nani?

Rukawa: Well I hope it isn't like out of the blue… I bought a little gift for you, Kasumi.

Kasumi: (Surprised) (Brings her right hand close to her mouth) Mā, you shouldn't have Rukawa-kun. (Thinking) Rukawa-kun bought me a gift? I-Is this what people would call courting? (Smiles to herself, slightly thrilled)

Rukawa: Why not Kasumi? Everyone deserves to be pampered once in a while.

Kasumi: (Stares at Rukawa slightly embarrassed, blushing) (Thinking) He must really care for me to spend some of his hard earned money on me.

Rukawa: (Pats Kasumi's shoulder) Especially you, Kasumi. (Grins)

Kasumi: (Shyly) Dōshite Rukawa-kun? [Why Rukawa-kun?]

Rukawa: Well I-I… Is a reason required to buy you a present, Kasumi? (Thinking) What a hard question.

Kasumi: (Shakes her head) I guess not Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Hope you will like it Kasumi.

Kasumi: What is it Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: You will find out later. (Grins) It is being delivered later in the afternoon. I really hope you will like it. By the way, tonight I'm treating everyone out for dinner. It's just a small treat to show my gratitude for your family's assistance when I was in trouble. So you don't have to prepare dinner Kasumi. Have a rest. (Smiles) Ja ne Kasumi. Ittekimasu. (Leaves the kitchen for work)

Kasumi: (Waves her hand) Itterasshai Rukawa-kun. (Places her hand on her chest, feeling her heartbeat, watching Rukawa leaving) (Thinking) My heart is beating with excitement… I'm actually looking forward to his present. (Smiles to herself) He's always eliciting new emotions out of me. It has been a long time since I actually am looking forward to something. For myself.

------

Scene Tendo Dojo, genkan, afternoon, after school,

Nabiki: Ne Kasumi oneechan. There's a package for you.

Kasumi: (Appears from the living room) Hai.

Deliveryman: Kon'nichi wa Tendo-san.

Kasumi: Kon'nichi wa oji-san. [Uncle] (Bows)

Deliveryman: Just signed here Tendo-san. (Smiles)

Kasumi: Hai. (Signs on the paper)

Deliveryman: Arigato gozai masu. Here you go. (Passes a wide flat box to Kasumi)

Kasumi: (Bows politely) Arigato gozai masu. (Looks at the package delightedly, smiling)

Nabiki: (Notices Kasumi smiling) (Thinking) She must have been expecting this package… Maybe even a present heh. (Begins to speak) Why don't you open it oneechan?

Kasumi: (Disapprovingly) Nabiki.

Nabiki: Heh oneechan. So it is a present and not an ordinary package. Come on oneechan. I wanna know what's inside that is for you. (Pushes Kasumi gently directing her towards the living room) (A/N: Gifts are not opened at the time they are received in Japanese culture)

Kasumi: Hai Nabiki. (Sits down) (Unwraps the box carefully, folding the wrapping paper nicely, and lifts up its cover) Ara… (Places her hand, feeling the soft smooth fabric) (Thinking) It can't be…

Nabiki: (Takes out the dress from the box and holds it out for a full view of the dress) (Sees a sleeveless creamy white summer dress with a floral pattern along with frills at the shoulders and a conservative skirt length) My, my. Who bought this for you oneechan? And it seems perfectly fitting for you ne.

Kasumi: (Thinking) This dress… (Remembering the episode)

(Start of flashback sequence)

Scene: Sakura Street Shopping District, in front of Kanzaki's Clothing shop display window,

Rukawa: (Notices Kasumi looking at a particular dress on a mannequin showcased at the shop window as they were walking back home) Feel like buying it Kasumi-san?

Kasumi: Just imagining how it will look on me Rukawa-kun. (Thinking) I still find it as exquisite as ever since I first laid my eyes on it.

Rukawa: Eh? Imagine? Let's go in and try, test, wear it and see how it will fit on you.

Kasumi: Ara Rukawa-kun. I am not going to buy it.

Rukawa: Eh why not? You don't like it? (Thinking) The way she looks at it, I could have sworn she loves it.

Kasumi: Our family finances are not all that good at the moment. (Thinking) Since ever. The house is forever requiring repairs. (Begins to speak) New clothes are not much of a necessity.

Rukawa: Come on let's go in and put it on you to see how it looks and then we tell them we will think about it. (Grins)

Kasumi: Ara Rukawa-kun that is not very nice.

Rukawa: Come on don't be so prim and proper. The least you can do is to try it on. (Half drags Kasumi into the store despite her protests)

------

Scene: Outside Kanzaki's Clothing,

Rukawa: (Thinking) Why did I take note of what size that dress is? (Notices Kasumi still giggling) (Begins to speak) What are you giggling about Kasumi-san?

Kasumi: Nothing Rukawa-kun you were just amusing.

Rukawa: Amusing?

Kasumi: Never mind Rukawa-kun. It is nothing. Anyway, it was a particularly nice feeling to wear something new and see how it looks on me. But still the behavior was unacceptable and is wrong to do what we did just now, Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Hehe. Is not really like you never intend to buy it. You want it but can't afford. Nothing wrong with that.

Kasumi: Date… [But…] It is still improper Rukawa-kun. (A/N: Date pronounced as Da Te. Used when you disagree with something. Protest against a decision. Something like that. A cute form of "but" when females used it in their speech)

Rukawa: (Sticks out a tongue at Kasumi) Heh but you still did it too didn't you. We are both improper now.

Kasumi: (Giggles at Rukawa's silliness) Someone dragged me in you know. (Thinking) He seems so childish.

Rukawa: (Grins) I don't know. (Runs forward carrying his bag of groceries) Catch me and maybe I might remember who did that.

Kasumi: Ara Rukawa-kun. (Increases her pace slightly) Matte.

(End of flashback sequence)

Kasumi: (Thinking) I thought that he was just being childish and mischievous and all during that time… Just wanting to have a bit of fun with me. Wanting me to lighten up. But… (Looks at the dress, takes it from Nabiki's hands and holds it to herself) Were you thinking of buying it for me all this time, Rukawa-kun? (Smiles weakly to herself) Maybe I'm just overreacting.

Nabiki: Wow… So who is it from oneechan? It must be from your admirer.

Kasumi: (Looks at Nabiki, smiling secretively) Someone.

Nabiki: That is very informative oneechan.

Kasumi: Ara Nabiki. It is my secret. (Smiles reticently)

Nabiki: (Smirks) You can't hide it from me oneechan.

Kasumi: Are you sure Nabiki?

Nabiki: My smarts tell me is from Rukawa-kun. Who else can it be. (Grins)

Kasumi: Bing-bong. [Bingo]

Nabiki: First come the gifts. Then come the sweet talks. Subsequently asking you to go steady. (Grins)

Kasumi: I wouldn't mind Nabiki. (Smiles)

Nabiki: Ara?

Kasumi: But Rukawa-kun I doubt he will do that.

Nabiki: You don't think he is courting you.

Kasumi: We have only been as close as friends Nabiki.

Nabiki: (Smirks) Why am I not convinced oneechan.

Kasumi: (Face reddens slightly) Okay if you minus off the sleeping incident a couple of months back.

Nabiki: (Smirks) My, my oneechan. I wasn't referring to that particular incident.

Kasumi: Ara?

Nabiki: Which kind of "friends" actually teases about partnering each other in the kitchen a couple of months back?

Kasumi: (Blushes) (Slightly stern voice) Nabiki… It is impolite to eavesdrop on us.

Nabiki: Knowledge is power oneechan. I know you like him. And I know he likes you oneechan. (Winks)

Kasumi: You think so?

Nabiki: (Nods) I have seen him watching you intently as you prepare dinner, hang out clothes to dry, take out laundry, sweeping the floor, etcetera. Maybe he is as shy as Ranma in revealing his feelings or maybe there are other reasons. Whatever it is oneechan you should know that… Rukawa-kun is fine but he does have a past. He did come here violently, half dead and all. And as Tofu-sensei did mentioned, he appeared to have taken part in a fight to the death. He could be a bad guy and seems normal now because of his lost memories. He could have been a totally different person before. (Thinking) Still, Cologne obā-san already suspected ojii-chan to be the culprit for healing Rukawa-kun. If ojii-chan did try to save Rukawa-kun… It can be good or bad also… (Shudders) What if Rukawa-kun is also a pervert like ojii-chan… His underwear-raiding partner. (Frowns)

Kasumi: Ara Nabiki but…

Nabiki: I know oneechan. Somehow or other you're very happy when Rukawa-kun is around.

Kasumi: Sōdesu. [Yes]

Nabiki: Are you sure you don't know if Rukawa-kun likes you, oneechan?

Kasumi: Well there is a slight possibility that he does.

Nabiki: Then?

Kasumi: (Looks down) But I get the feeling he doesn't want to. I don't want to force him Nabiki.

Nabiki: Huh?

Kasumi: (Looks at Nabiki) I don't think he want to be with me, Nabiki.

Nabiki: Ara, are you sure oneechan? It can't be. I have watched him express a look of longing to be with you.

Kasumi: I don't know Nabiki. Maybe that's also why I like him too. I do like queer guys.

Nabiki: (Thinking) Isn't Tofu-sensei and Yasukichi-san also eccentric. (Begins to speak) But after some time now, won't you get tired of waiting oneechan?

Kasumi: (Look downwards) (Sigh)

Nabiki: But don't worry oneechan. This present must have meant something right. (Grins) So all isn't lost oneechan.

Kasumi: Rukawa-kun did mention it is just a friendly gift and he is also treating us out to dinner tonight.

Nabiki: (Shakes her head) Iie. That's what he said. He is probably trying to psyche himself. Hahaha!

Kasumi: Nabiki that is not very nice to talk about Rukawa-kun that way.

Nabiki: Maybe you can feed him one of Akane's cherry blossom rice cake hahaha! Use her recipe and see the result if there's a cross sign or sakura signs. Hahaha! (Thinking) The sight of Ranma dying to know his fate and forcing himself to eat that horrible rice cake still tickles me to the core.

Kasumi: Nabiki. You know we cannot allow that kind of things to determine our fate.

Nabiki: (Grins) Gee oneechan. Are you really scared that Rukawa-kun might get a cross mark on his face?

Kasumi: Mā… (Places her right hand on her cheek)

Nabiki: Seriously oneechan, sometimes when you think the time is right, for you to tell him or him to tell you, maybe it could be too late. It could also be there won't be even time for you to tell him your feelings.

Kasumi: (Places an arm over Nabiki's shoulder, bringing Nabiki closer to herself) Since when did my little sister become the expert in love.

Nabiki: I've always been the smart one oneechan. (Smirks) That…

Kasumi: Will be 1000 yen for the counseling.

Nabiki: (Looks at Kasumi with a poker face) He really is a bad influence on you oneechan. I prefer the old you. And it is 500 yen only since you're my big sister.

Kasumi: (Smiles) But I used to be like that, aren't I, Nabiki.

Nabiki: (Sees the twinkling in Kasumi's eyes) Not exactly but… Eh.

Kasumi: Hmm?

Nabiki: Rukawa-kun treating dinner tonight?

Kasumi: Hai.

Nabiki: (Excitedly) Wonderful! (Rub her hands in glee) (Thinking) A chance to dine out and eat fine cuisine.

Kasumi: Don't rub Rukawa-kun too hard Nabiki. He works hard to earn his money.

Nabiki: (Grins) A guy wanna treat, we shouldn't be shy about it oneechan.

Kasumi: (Thinking) Oh dear.

Nabiki: Anyway oneechan, why do you like Rukawa-kun? I don't think that he is all that romantic. The kind you would go for.

Kasumi: Well Nabiki, I feel warm when I'm with him. Rukawa-kun emits a weird feeling that makes him adorable to me and I just want to cuddle up to him…

Nabiki: Rukawa-kun adorable? Are you serious oneechan?

Kasumi: (Nods) Um hmm. (Smiles) Rukawa-kun may not be as gorgeous as some guys but he is sweet in his own way. He may not be a very sensitive person but he is concerned about my well-being. It counts a lot and my heart feel content to know that Rukawa-kun think and care about me.

Nabiki: (Fakes out a hurt voice) Aren't we also concerned for your welfare oneechan?

Kasumi: (Smiles) Of course Nabiki. But in this case it is an eligible guy, so it is different ne. (Grins suggestively) E-li-gi-ble guy.

Nabiki: Oneechan you're really serious with Rukawa-kun.

Kasumi: I like him why shouldn't I be serious.

Nabiki: So how serious it is. (Smiles wickedly) How intimate have you two been oneechan?

Kasumi: (Thoughtfully) Hmm… I do enjoy our intimate moments together. Well actually we were supposed to be alone together but it seems someone is always spying on us. (Casts a warning look at Nabiki)

Nabiki: (Coughs) Eh hehe. Seriously oneechan, that is not intimate at all. You can't say you're intimate with Rukawa-kun just because you two were alone chatting, joking, teasing with each other. Now kissing, cuddling, smooching, caressing, fondling that's what I would call being intimate. (Grins)

Kasumi: (Covers her mouth) Mā Nabiki. Those are for you to share with your husband.

Nabiki: I can fairly recall hearing someone mentioned (Softly mimicking an exaggerated Kasumi's voice) "Ara Rukawa-kun. I thought I mentioned I chose you…"

Kasumi: (Blushes furiously) Nabiki imoto-chan, it is really rude to spy on us like that.

Nabiki: (The look on Kasumi prompt her to laugh helplessly) Hahahahaha! (Straightens herself up) I never knew my big sister could flirt.

Kasumi: I am not flirting.

Nabiki: Then?

Kasumi: (Meekly) I was just teasing Rukawa-kun.

Nabiki: Nah that is what I call flirting. Relax oneechan it is no longer the Stone Age. So oneechan heh heh…

Kasumi: Ara Nabiki-chan?

Nabiki: How far have you two gone? (Grins)

Kasumi: It was quite far Nabiki.

Nabiki: Heh! Details oneechan. Details.

Kasumi: (Looks at Nabiki wonderingly) (Thinking) Ara why is Nabiki so interested in this?

Nabiki: (Shakes Kasumi) Come on oneechan tell me.

Kasumi: Okay, okay Nabiki. Calm down.

Nabiki: So how far oneechan?

Kasumi: Well… I think it should be last Sunday…

Nabiki: Uh huh… (Thinking) I didn't even know about it…

Kasumi: Rukawa-kun and me, we went to the park after we went to shop for groceries together.

Nabiki: (With bated breath) And?

Kasumi: That's it. The park, for a while.

Nabiki: (Excited) You did it there?! Oneechan I would've never believe it if I didn't hear it from you myself. (Thinking) Fuh! Oneechan did it then only wonder if Rukawa-kun likes her! Wow! I didn't even know my sister have such strong feelings for Rukawa-kun. Major news!

Kasumi: Ara, did what Nabiki-chan?

Nabiki: (Sees a very innocent expression on Kasumi's face) (Sweatdrops) (Thinking) Are we on the same wavelength here… (Begins to speak) Eh oneechan what did you think I asked you just now?

Kasumi: Ara. You asked me how far I had gone with Rukawa-kun isn't it. Nerima Park was the farthest we have gone together. We took a walk there and fed the birds for a while after shopping.

#Thud.#

Nabiki: (Oyakusoku pozu) (Thinking) A dense sister is a headache.

Kasumi: (Concerned) Ara Nabiki. Daijobou?

Nabiki: (Regains her composure) (Clears her throat) What I meant oneechan, was how close have you two ever been physically?

Kasumi: (Face reddens slightly involuntarily) Nabiki, you know me. I…

Nabiki: Yare yare oneechan. (Thinking) So boring. Expected. (Begins to speak) Hmm still as far as I had observed, you two had been holding hands but still those were not the romantic kind.

Kasumi: Yes that's all.

Nabiki: Are you sure oneechan? What about the incident a couple of months back?

Kasumi: That is different Nabiki. Rukawa-kun was comforting me.

Nabiki: So cozy. So close. (Shows an exaggerated dreamy expression, wrapping her arms around herself) How does it feel oneechan? To hug a guy and have his arms around you, holding you.

Kasumi: (Reminisces) (Close her eyes and smiles) The feeling is so wonderful that I just want time to stop and let me savor the precious moment at that time. I feel so protected and secure with his arms wrapped around me even if he only lightly hugs me back.

Nabiki: That's the closest you two ever been physically?

Kasumi: Hai.

Nabiki: That is so boring oneechan. Those are all non-sexual touching. It only turns us girls on. Guys don't get turn on. Maybe you need to turn Rukawa-kun on then he will say he love you, oneechan. (Grins evilly)

Kasumi: Ara?

Nabiki: A flash of lingerie, some cleavage, maybe even a little nudity and some sexual advances… Hee!

Kasumi: (Horrified) Nabiki. That is not the way proper women should behave and…

Nabiki: (Grins) This is the new world oneechan. Don't be so outdated. You know, men are like computers. In order to get their attention, you have to turn them on.

Kasumi: Mā… (Covers her mouth) (Thinking) My sister's mind has been corrupted.

Nabiki: But then maybe you're in luck oneechan. At any rate Rukawa-kun could also be an outdated guy. Perfect for you oneechan since you're traditional too. Who knows. (Kisses Kasumi on the cheek) Hope you get what you want oneechan. Ja. (Gets up) And remember oneechan, I'm rooting for ya all the way hee! (Thinking) The look on her face is so priceless. (Giggles) (Slides open the door) (Sees Akane) (Begins to speak) Hey Akane.

Akane: Nabiki oneechan, nani?

Nabiki: Maybe you should get Ranma to hur hur… (Nudges her shoulder behind her) (Walks away)

Akane: Ara? (Looks inside) (Sees Kasumi holding a new dress) Oneechan?

Kasumi: Ara Akane. Welcome back.

Akane: Ranma bought you a dress?

Nabiki: (Staggers in her walking) (Sweatdrops) (Thinking) Why am I blessed with two dense sisters?

Kasumi: (Covers her mouth) Masaka! (Shakes her hand)

Akane: Heh?

Kasumi: Rukawa-kun bought for me.

Akane: Ara. (Takes the dress and holds the dress onto herself excitedly) Kawaiiiii…

Kasumi: (Smiles)

Akane: Ne oneechan, is this an indication of Rukawa-kun and you being together?

Kasumi: Iie desu, Akane.

Akane: Heh… I would have expected that. (Gazes at the dress adoringly)

Kasumi: (Smiles) You can share with me Akane. It would only be a little large for you.

Akane: I may? Arigato oneechan. (Hugs Kasumi) But it is your special dress. And more importantly, Rukawa-kun would only want to see you wear it oneechan. (Smiles knowingly)

Kasumi: Perhaps. (Thinking) Me, turn guys on? Mā. I couldn't possibly do that. Besides Rukawa-kun likes me because I am me. (Smiles happily to herself)

------

Scene: Tendo Dojo, genkan, evening,

Rukawa: Tadaima. (Slides open the door) (Blinks in surprise)

Ranma: Yoroshii! [All right!]

Rukawa: Ara?

Ranma: Let's get going! I'm starving Rukawa.

Rukawa: Right…

Nabiki: Thank you Rukawa-kun for treating us. (Smiles)

Rukawa: (Nervous) (Thinking) If she wanna thank me she don't need to give a smile that send shivers down my spine.

Akane: Thanks for treating us Rukawa-kun. (Smiles)

Rukawa: Er… Hai Akane-san.

Soun: (Pats Rukawa on his shoulder) This is such a surprise Rukawa-kun.

Genma: (Pats Rukawa on his other shoulder) So where're we eating? (Rubs his belly)

Rukawa: Eh anywhere you guys decide is fine with me.

Soun: Sou ka.

Nabiki: (Excitedly) Follow me! Fine cuisine is the way to go!

Ranma: Chotto! I know where we should go and eat.

Akane: Rukawa-kun is treating us you guys. Don't choose the most classy and expensive restaurant.

Nabiki: That's the best part imoto-chan.

Rukawa: (Sweatdrops) (Gulps)

Akane: Oneechan…

Genma: (Rubbing his chin) Umm… This is a very important decision. Let the adults bear the heavy responsibility.

Ranma: Chotto! You just wanna choose yourself oyaji!

Rukawa: (Watching everyone arguing) (Thinking) I guess letting them decide between themselves wasn't a very good idea…

Kasumi: (Taps Rukawa from behind) Hello Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: (Turns around) H-hey Kasumi… (His heart flutters at the sight of Kasumi in her new dress and her hair tied up neatly in a bun instead of the usual loose ponytail)

Kasumi: (Smiles sweetly) (Bows and presents to Rukawa with both hands a small box, wrapped in a colorful paper)

Rukawa: Ah arigato. (Bows and receives the box with both hands)

(A/N: O-kaeshi is a "thank-you" gift. When someone gives a gift, the receiver is sure to return back (obliged) with an o-kaeshi which is usually half the value of the giver's gift)

Kasumi: I may never thank you enough for your gift Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: (Smiles) You already did Ka-su-mi. (Thinking) Seeing your pleasant smile indicating you're happy is enough. (Keeps the box into his pants pocket)

Kasumi: (Wrinkles her nose cutely) Is it?

Rukawa: (Resists his reflexive desire to pull her nose) Um hmm. (Notices everyone already at the front gate ready to leave for dinner) (Takes Kasumi's hand) We'd better get going Kasumi.

------

Scene: Along the streets, later,

Rukawa: (Strolls slowly with Kasumi behind Genma, Soun, Akane, Ranma and Nabiki who were walking in front, chattering)

Kasumi: Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Hai?

Kasumi: I really appreciate your generosity for buying me the dress.

Rukawa: Sure is no problem Kasumi.

Kasumi: That was the nicest thing someone has done for me.

Rukawa: Hey… After all you did choose me as your suitor right hahaha! (Winks)

Kasumi: (Gently ribbed Rukawa) Then it should have been a ring Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Hahaha. My mistake. My mistake. Next time. Next time. (Smiles) Who knows.

Kasumi: (Smiles)

Rukawa: Anyway Kasumi, don't worry yourself on the present. I bought you the dress to cheer you up not to have you worry about thanking me and all. Seeing you glowing with happiness is more than enough for me.

Kasumi: (Squeezes Rukawa's hand) Arigato. (Thinking) Rukawa-kun may never say he love me but his thoughtful action is just so…

Nabiki: (Smirks)

------

Chapter 29: Introspection

Scene: Tendo Dojo, porch and courtyard, Saturday afternoon,

Rukawa: (Sitting down at the porch) (Watches Kasumi as she hang out clothes to dry in the courtyard) (Touches an amulet hanging round his neck)

Ranma: (Approaches Rukawa) (Sits down beside Rukawa) Ah Rukawa, yesterday dinner was so great.

Rukawa: (Watching Kasumi) Yup. The bill was so great too.

Ranma: Eh heh heh. You don't mind right?

Rukawa: (Watching Kasumi) Nope. It's worth it to see everyone having fun.

Ranma: Where didja get that amulet?

Rukawa: (Watching Kasumi) Kasumi no o-kaeshi.

Ranma: Ah sou. (Grins and nudges Rukawa) Heh isn't it old Romeo engrossed at watching his Juliet.

Rukawa: (Turns to Ranma) Romeo? Juliet? Aitsu-ra nan de? [Who are they?]

Ranma: Just some boring characters from a stupid play. Don't mind them.

Rukawa: Sou ka. (Gazes back at Kasumi)

Ranma: You are really absorbed in watching Kasumi oneechan, ne.

Rukawa: (Turns and faces Ranma) No comment Ranma.

Ranma: Haha so is true.

Rukawa: What thing is true?

Ranma: Akane told me someone is falling for Kasumi oneechan.

Rukawa: (Sigh) I wish I understand myself.

Ranma: You don't like Kasumi oneechan?

Rukawa: I don't know Ranma. I'm pretty much confused myself.

Ranma: You're losing me Rukawa.

Rukawa: What makes a person beautiful, Ranma?

Ranma: Erm… (Thinking) …

Rukawa: Okay let me rephrase that. Why is Akane-san beautiful to you?

Ranma: Heh because she's a violent tomboy.

Rukawa: (Sweatdrops) You mean Akane-san is strong willed and wouldn't give up easily. And she has so much determination in her spirit. Plus she is a good martial artist too and is always ready for anything and everything that comes her way and is not afraid to stand up and face any challenge.

Ranma: Yeah that's what I meant.

Rukawa: … (Shakes his head) (Thinking) He's really gonna infuriate Akane-san if he doesn't let his heart do the speaking.

Ranma: Hey. Why the sudden change in topic?

Rukawa: Well that's what you see in Akane-san.

Ranma: (Eyeing Rukawa suspiciously) Then what do you see in Akane, Rukawa? Don't tell me you're interested in Akane now.

Rukawa: Baka. I'm about to tell you what I see in Kasumi.

Ranma: Oh hahaha I knew that! Was just joking around you know.

Rukawa: Yare yare. Well… I see the beauty in Kasumi when she takes the responsibility of looking after her family all these years without complaints. I can see her doing the same for her own family. She isn't just being a mother figure. It is in her soul to be what she is now. (Pauses) (Turns to Ranma) How do you feel when Akane-san smiles at you?

Ranma: I feel nervous.

Rukawa: You go weak at the knees you mean.

Ranma: Yare yare. Whatever.

Rukawa: (Turns to watching Kasumi) I can imagine Kasumi's future husband returning home from an exhausting workday, being greeted by her. He sees her welcoming him with a smile on her face and miraculously all his tiredness vanish. All because of her smile that installs such contentment into him, making him relax and feel at ease.

Ranma: And Rukawa getting jealous because he isn't the husband.

Rukawa: …

Ranma: Hahaha. Don't worry Rukawa. (Slaps Rukawa on the back) I sure vote in your favor if it comes to that.

Rukawa: Thanks I guess…

Ranma: Go on.

Rukawa: Her kind, generous, peaceful nature shows all the lovely qualities of herself. Kasumi cooks with love because she wants to provide for her family well and not just for the sake of filling up the empty stomachs. She put others before herself. She's willing to sacrifice for her loved ones. Kasumi will give everything she has to keep everyone happy and well. That's what makes Kasumi beautiful to me… To everyone.

Ranma: You're beginning to sound like Kuno with his long speeches.

Rukawa: To cut a long story short Ranma, Kasumi radiates beauty in her actions.

Ranma: That's better. So what's up with all the long speeches?

Rukawa: I know how beautiful Kasumi is. Kasumi is someone who never put on air or graces to be attractive. She is attractive because… I-I just by watching her, she tirelessly doing her chores emits the beauty in her. She never tries to act cute to be kawaii. She is kawaii just being herself. Which guy wouldn't want a kawaii girl to be his partner Ranma?

Ranma: (Grins widely) A gay. Wahahahahaha!

Rukawa: (Sweatdrops) No comment. Yet the thought of loving Kasumi and the hope that Kasumi is feeling the same way with me instead of just being a friend induced such rejecting sentiments in me.

Ranma: Huh?

Rukawa: The sensation felt like it has something to do with my past. It was so strong and critical with condemnation. The very feeling of accusing myself… It frightens me Ranma. It deem me unworthy to love anyone yet alone Kasumi.

Ranma: (Thinking) This is getting to be so complicating…

Rukawa: Yet I feel so selfish when I thought that Kasumi is hinting that she likes me, Ranma. I'm not entirely positive that she likes me but the mere thought of it simply excites me. The thought of being loved by Kasumi just like me falling for her is so…

Ranma: So?

Rukawa: (Looks at Ranma) Saa na. [Don't know]

Ranma: For someone who has been talking and raging on about Kasumi's beauty and now being loss for words is rather incredible.

Rukawa: Well you know… It is priceless to be loved by someone like Kasumi. But I guess is just my imagination that she could like me.

Ranma: Hey you never know Rukawa. (Grins) You could possibly go through the same thing like me.

Rukawa: Huh?

Ranma: I don't know if Akane likes me either. But she did. It can go the same as for you.

Rukawa: (Smiles) Heh. But I feel like I'm a hypocrite to like Kasumi. Like I'm cheating her…

Ranma: Your past?

Rukawa: Along the line Ranma… I could actually be a bad guy and all. After all I was involved in a fight that should result in my death. Kasumi doesn't deserve that kind of person. Because I should also then be trying to kill my opponent. That makes me just as bad. A murderer. (Thinking) Maybe losing my memory was a blessing. Or is it something worse than being a bad guy… That remembering my past would just… Kill me.

(Start of recall sequence)

Kasumi: You may have lost your memory and greatly wonder about your past. But the outcome of this may prove to show that it is actually a blessing in disguise. We never know Rukawa-kun. Everything in life happens for a reason.

(End of recall sequence)

Ranma: Well you're a good guy now maybe the memory loss was good for something. That is if you were a bad guy. What are the odds Rukawa? (Smiles comfortingly)

Rukawa: Maybe Ranma. (Sees Kasumi carries the empty laundry basket and enters the house) (Thinking) Kasumi… I can't help being infatuated with you… Even when I know it is not right. I feel like I'm so self-interested but… (Sigh) Why do I continue to have feelings for you after all these emotions that I felt. Is it that I really love you? But I could almost interpret my crazy emotions as saying if I love you, I shouldn't love you. For I may fail yet again…

Ranma: (Thinking) People never change Rukawa. They never do.

Kasumi: (Smiling to herself) (Thinking) Nabiki is right. Rukawa-kun really watches me. I wonder what he and Ranma-kun is talking about. (Glances at a calendar) Hmm… Tomorrow. 9th of May. (Stares at the calendar for a moment, a little gloomy) (Sigh) (Her shoulders slump a little) Every year. A joyous occasion yet… (Sigh) We could never celebrate it anymore.

------

Chapter 30: Day of reckoning

Scene: Tendo Dojo, kitchen, Sunday morning, breakfast time,

Kasumi: (Adds a piece of 10 cm square kelp into 1.5 liter of water in a pot) (Places the pot on the stove, boiling it) (Watches the water waiting for it to boil)

Rukawa: (Dicing tofu) (Peeks at Kasumi) (Thinking) She seems rather absorbed in her thoughts.

Kasumi: (Shakes herself momentarily as if she was in a daze) (Walks to the kitchen counter and starts to weigh out 40 grams of bonito flakes) (Moves back to the stove) (Removes the kelp from the almost boiling water and adds the bonito flakes into the water, simmering it)

Rukawa: (Finishes dicing tofu) (Proceeds to chop leek)

Kasumi: (Thinking) I guess is enough. (Turns off the stove) (Uses a cloth to filter out the water mixture) (Smiles) Daishi is ready.

Rukawa: (Sees the smile) (Thinking) Maybe I was just imagining things. She looks like herself.

Kasumi: (Takes out a packet of miso paste and adds the paste in to the daishi) (Turns on the stove to heat and dissolve the miso in the daishi) Rukawa-kun, is the tofu and green onion ready?

(A/N: Miso soup is basically made by dissolving miso paste in hot water. "Dashi" is the name of the Japanese-style soup stock, usually prepared with seafood. The natural zesty taste of kelp and bonito flakes from the soup stock makes the miso soup more delicious compare to just using boiling water. Miso paste added with hot water = miso soup. Miso paste added to daishi = delicious miso soup)

Rukawa: Hai Kasumi.

Kasumi: (Gathers the diced tofu and adds it into the miso soup, cooking it for a few minutes)

Rukawa: (Passes Kasumi the chopped leek)

Kasumi: (Receives the leek and put it in to the miso soup) (Allows the miso soup to boil slightly before turning off the stove) Okay breakfast is ready to be served.

Scene: Tendo Dojo, living room, later,

Kasumi: (Serving out rice to everyone)

Everyone: Itadakimasu.

Soun: Mmm Kasumi. What a wonderful treat for breakfast today.

Kasumi: Hai oto-san. Isn't today a special day. (Smiles)

Soun: Yes it is.

Nabiki: … (Thinking) I'm gonna spend the day in my room, peacefully.

Akane: Ne oneechan. (Thinking) Maybe she would cheer up if she accompanies me out shopping. She's always sad though she tried not to show it whenever today come.

Rukawa: (Thinking) Special day?

Ranma: (Gorging his rice noisily)

Kasumi: Nan dai Akane-chan? [What is it Akane-chan?] (A/N: Hope you guys not confused with all these nan desu ka, nan de, nan dai, nan da yo. Basically all mean the same thing. Nan desu ka is the real correct way while the others are short pronunciation forms)

Akane: Oneechan, you want to join me go shopping later with Ranma? I'm buying some new clothes.

Kasumi: (Smiles) Is okay Akane. I will be going out to buy groceries later and I may stop there a while.

Akane: Hai oneechan.

------

Scene: Tendo Dojo, front gate, late morning,

Ranma: Ittekimasu. (Heads off to the shopping plaza)

Akane: Ittekimasu oneechan. (Waves to Kasumi and walks off with Ranma)

Kasumi: Take care Akane, Ranma-kun. (Walks off, with her empty grocery bag, in another direction)

Scene: Tendo Dojo, in the dojo, ninety minutes later,

Genma: You're getting pretty good Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: Thanks to you Saotome oji-san. (Bows)

Genma: (Rubs the back of his head) Wahahaha! I am a good teacher.

Soun: Maybe some day soon you will remember all your martial arts skills again. And we would love to check out your skills from another School.

Rukawa: I hope so Tendo oji-san.

Genma: Ne Tendo-kun, are you ready for a shogi rematch?

Soun: Always Saotome-kun. I am always ready to win.

Genma: Not this time Tendo-kun. This time I'm gonna win! Hahahaha! Let's go.

Rukawa: (Watches Soun and Genma leave the dojo) (Smiles) (Thinking) They really are good friends. I wonder what time it is already. I feel like Kasumi should be already back by now. (Exits the dojo and enters the house) Hmm close to noon already. I hope nothing happens to her. I think I will go look for her. She did look rather forlorn today I guess. I could try to cheer her up. Hmm I wonder what Akane-san mean by "there".

Scene: Nerima Ward, noon,

Rukawa: (Walking around with his hands in his pocket) (Notices some families entering restaurants, laughing happily) (Watches the kids and father kissing the mother) (Turns around) (Sees a little boy holding a rose to his mother) (Smiles) (Thinking) How cute. (Walks around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Kasumi)

Little girl: Haha no Hi ni, oka-san.

Rukawa: (Turns behind him and sees a girl bringing her mother in a restaurant)

Little girl: I saved my allowance to treat you here oka-san. (Smiles)

Girl's mother: (Hugs the girl) Arigato Miaka-chan.

Miaka: Oka-san, anata suki da. [Mum, I love you]

Rukawa: (Blinks) (Mutters) Haha no Hi ni… [Mother's day…] Is today? (Thinking) Akane-san went out together with Ranma. Went shopping. Is it to forget her sadness and tries to cope with her loss? Nabiki-san was inside her room the whole morning. Is she confiding herself. Maybe even looking through photo albums of her mother… Kasumi? She went out to buy grocery and still not back yet. It shouldn't take more than an hour to do a grocery shop. Where did she go? Maybe she visit… There. (Runs off) Why didn't I realize it sooner. Che. (A/N: Haha also mean mother in Japanese. If you're confused with haha and oka-san look at it this way. Haha = mother. Oka-san = mum or mummy. Oka-sama would be a very formal reference. Maybe can also take it as children who call oka-sama or oto-sama are not very close to their parents but held them in high respect. Or children who call otosan, oka-san are more casual with their parents, more at ease. So if you call your mother it would be oka-san while if your mother refers herself as a mother it would be haha. For father, it would be chi-chi. I think of it myself so it may not be correct. But I dare say it is along this line heh heh)

Scene: Nerima Cemetery, fifteen minutes later,

Rukawa: (Running around) (Thinking) She must be here. Visiting her mother. Paying her respects. On Mother's day. (Sees a lone standing figure in the middle of stretches and stretches of tombstones) (Squints his eyes and recognizes Kasumi) (Approaches Kasumi in relief) (Thinking) I'm glad nothing happen to her. (Roll his eyes) What could have happen anyway? (Closing on to Kasumi, notices the filled grocery bag near her feet on the ground)

Kasumi: (Feels someone's presence nearby) (Turns and sees Rukawa walking anxiously towards her) (Thinking) Rukawa-kun… Why are you here? A-are you here for me?

Rukawa: Hey… (Thinking) She must really wish to celebrate this day with her mother.

Kasumi: Rukawa-kun… (Thinking) Is he worried about me? Does he really think about me that much?

Rukawa: (Looks at the tombstone, a bundle of pink carnations lay nearby) (Reads to himself) Tendo Kimiko. (Bows)

Kasumi: (Continues to stare at her mother tombstone)

Rukawa: (Thinking) This must be hard for her… For the Tendo family. (Stands beside Kasumi in silence) (Cautiously squeeze Kasumi's shoulder slightly) (Thinking) I came here and I do not know what to say to Kasumi. 'Taku… (Sigh inwardly)

Kasumi: Ne Rukawa-kun…

Rukawa: Y-yes Kasumi?

Kasumi: Every Mother's day, oka-san couldn't be here with us… Because she's far away now, but I know she wishes she could be with us since this is such a special day.

Rukawa: (Nods silently)

Kasumi: Though you cannot meet her, Rukawa-kun… I want you to know all about her and how much she loves us, Akane, Nabiki, oto-san and me. She loves to tell Akane bedtime stories to help her sleep. She is always surprising Nabiki with pink carnations every now and then, to make Nabiki smile. She patiently taught me how to cook when I was young. And brought us all to eat ice cream at the ice cream shop. (Tears start to form in her eyes) How I miss her, Rukawa-kun.

Rukawa: (Notices Kasumi's eyes getting watery) (Thinking) Man, I'm not sure what to do. Baka. Then why the heck I came here in the first place if I don't know what to do.

Kasumi: (Her voice starts to tremble) Though you cannot see her, I know I'm not standing here alone with you, Rukawa-kun. (Tears slowly roll down her cheeks) Because she is always with us, even though we are apart in reality. I know because she told me, she'll forever be in my heart… (Reaches her hand up and lays her hand across her chest, feeling her own heartbeat beneath her dress) (Recalling her mother's favorite song in her heart) Kurakushon sae doramu no you ni, kono mune tataki, namida wo sasoi hajimeru no rarabai. [My heart beats like a drum, even a klaxon. Starting to invite tears, a lullaby]

Rukawa: (Gently rubs Kasumi's back) Kasumi… (Thinking) As you stand forlornly in front of me, the melancholy you emits captivate me. I just want to embrace and comfort you. I really want to.

Kasumi: I love her very much Rukawa-kun, she's everything to me. (Starts to break down) And I know if she could, she'd be here for this special day, against all odds but… (Shedding her tears emotionally)

Rukawa: (Hold both Kasumi's hands with his own)

Kasumi: (Startled) Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: Don't cry Kasumi. Your mother wouldn't want to see you like this would she? She would want to see you smiling and living your life happily knowing that your love for her does not break even when death separates you two apart. Knowing that you still loves her and remembers her is more than what she would wish for. She would want you to carry on with your life and not grieve over her all your life. Most of all she would want you to be happy. Nothing more. Nothing less.

Kasumi: (Remembering)

(Start of flashback sequence)

Kimiko: (Sees sorrow and grief on her daughter face) Genki wo dashite mou nakanaide, ashita ni nareba, subete kawaru wa, genki wo dashite mou nakanaide, atarashi kaze mukatte, smile again…[Cheer up, don't cry any more. When tomorrow comes, everything will change. Cheer up, don't cry any more. Face the new wind and smile again]

Kasumi: (Smiles slightly upon hearing the lyrics of her mother favorite song)

Kimiko: Show and give them strength dear. Smile when troubles come along. Face those plights with a smile and it will be all right. Provide them the confidence to continue with their lives and yours.

Kasumi: (Gives a weak smile) (Thinking) I hope I can.

Kimiko: I love you dear, always. I'll forever be in your heart Kasumi.

Kasumi: I love you too oka-san. (Thinking) I wish you were not going to leave us… I don't want to lose you…

(End of flashback sequence)

Kasumi: (Smiles faintly) (Stops weeping)

Rukawa: (Smiles) (Thinking) She's so strong, yet fragile at the same time.

Kasumi: Yes. Sometimes, when I closed my eyes and smile to myself, I could see her smiling back at me. Sometimes, when I cook dinner, I could feel her hands holding onto mine, guiding me. I-it is like she never did leave us.

Rukawa: (Smiles) Yes Kasumi. She is always deep within your heart. (Carefully wipes off the tear stains on Kasumi's cheeks)

Kasumi: (Looks at Rukawa) (Thinking) Arigato Rukawa-kun for being here. (Begins to speak) You know Rukawa-kun. There is a quote that existed in this world that can be applied to describe her.

Rukawa: Hmm?

Kasumi: If you could meet oka-san, it would only take a minute to know she's special, an hour to appreciate her, just a day to love her, but to forget her it would take more than a lifetime.

Rukawa: (Nods) You know Kasumi. I may not have the chance to know her but I do have the opportunity to get to know her daughter, Tendo Kasumi. (Gazes at Kasumi softly) And you know what I say…

Kasumi: (Looks at Rukawa waiting expectantly for his words)

Rukawa: You're special too Kasumi in your own way. It would take more than just that mere weird technique Omoide eikyū no fukitoru [permanent memory erase] to forget you if I ever suffered from it again. (Smiles)

Kasumi: (Hugs Rukawa) Arigato Rukawa-kun. (Blinks her tears away) (Thinking) However blunt it may sound but still that is the sweetest form of words I have ever hear for myself.

Rukawa: (Returns the hug) Anytime Kasumi. (Thinking) Now… How did I comfort her just now? Everything happened so fast. I wasn't even sure what to do in the first place.

Kasumi: (Recalling the second chorus of her mother's favourite song in her heart) Genki wo dashite mou nakanaide, warui koto dake tsuzukanai kara, genki wo dashite mou nakanaide, miageta sora ni dakarete. Smile again! [Cheer up, don't cry anymore because it won't be bad things for long. Cheer up, don't cry anymore. The sky I look up at embraces me. Smile again!] (Looks down at Rukawa's back) (Thinking, making up her own lyrics) Genki wo dashite mou nakanaide, negau otoko ni dakarete. Smile again! [Cheer up don't cry anymore, the guy I'm hoping for embraces me. Smile again!] (Smiles contentedly)

Rukawa: (Thinking) Kasumi, she revealed her deepest feelings, her emotions, her dream and her life to me… She shared them with me because she believe in me… Yet… I can't even share her my real feelings.

Kasumi: (Thinking) I wish not to leave for any place. I just want to hold you here with me forever even if I lose my words for you.

Rukawa: (Thinking) Kasumi… I am so enthralled by you. I want you to receive these warm emotions of mine. Yet for some reasons unknown, I can never allow my arm to link to yours. Can I ever change this friendship of ours into love? I want to tell you. I want to make sure. I want to be with you. I-I should let go of my past and move on. Yes I should start my life over with you. (Begins to speak) Kasumi. (Pull away from Kasumi gently) (Faces her)

Kasumi: Hai Rukawa-kun?

Rukawa: (Stares at Kasumi) (Something tugs at his heart) (Thinking) I can't do it… What is it that I am afraid of? I just can't do it. (Begins to speak) I-I hope you're feeling better now.

Kasumi: (Smiles) Hai Rukawa-kun. (Picks up her grocery bag) Let's head back… (Thinking) Why do I keep getting my hopes up high?

Rukawa: (Walking) (Thinking) I can never find the words to melt her heart anyway.

Kasumi: (Walking close beside Rukawa) (Thinking) Arigato Rukawa-kun for being here with me even when I least expect it.

Rukawa: (Thinking) She looks rather lonesome. (Put an arm around Kasumi's shoulders)

Kasumi: (Rests her head on Rukawa's shoulder in response) (Thinking) Your hold over me is like a dream Rukawa-kun. Please resolve your love to me at the end.

Rukawa: (Thinking) Is it that a simple "I love you" will melt her heart?

Kasumi: (Thinking) All those lonely nights where dark shadows and the sound of the crickets once shrouded together in the stillness of the night… They have all vanished once you entered my life. I don't want to let go of you even if such a thought is too selfish. I love you. I wished to be loved by you, Rukawa-kun. That's all I'm asking.

Rukawa: (Thinking) I'll be here for you Kasumi, no matter what happens till my end. Even if I'm just a friend.

(A/N: Heh heh can't help using this song, Mou nakanaide (Don't cry any more) which is for "Ranma 1/2 Nettouhen" opening theme (1991) season 6, for Kasumi. Her serene face that appears during the opening theme makes me feel like this is her song and it is for her and not that bratty Azusa. Why the heck is it Azusa's song?)

------

Scene: Nekohanten, half an hour later,

Cologne: Shampoo! Get Mousse. We must go now. I sense a mysterious presence in Nerima approaching the Tendo Dojo.

Shampoo: Yes hiba-chan. [great grandmother]

Cologne: Hurry!

Scene: Tendo Dojo, pathway between the house and the front gate,

Rukawa: (Walking with Kasumi by his side)

Male voice: (Shouting) I'll wipe out Anything Goes School in revenge for your part in starting our School decline!

Rukawa: (Stops in his tracks) Eh? Nani?

Kasumi: (Stops walking) Ara?

#Crash!#

Soun&Genma: (Hurtle on the ground upon penetrating through the wall) Ow! Itai!

Kasumi: Oto-san. Oji-sama. (Hurries to Soun and Genma) Daijobou? (Kneels down and holds Soun up to a sitting position)

Soun: (Clutching his abdomen) Ara Kasumi… You better leave now. Go. He's too strong. He is dangerous.

Kasumi: Date… [But…]

Soun: It's too dangerous for you to stay here now.

Rukawa: (Holds up Genma) Dare ga? [Who is it?]

Yamazaki: (Appearing at the Tendo house doorway) (Gazes through the people) (Widen eyes) Shinguji! You're alive?!

Soun: Shinguji?

Rukawa: (Sees a hooded cloak man) (Assumes a defensive stance) Why are you attacking Tendo oji-san and Saotome oji-san?

Yamazaki: (Frowns) Chiku'so! You really don't know death do you!

Rukawa: (Turns around briefly, glancing behind him) (Faces Yamazaki) (Slightly surprised) (Thinking) Is he referring to me?

Yamazaki: (Dashes at Rukawa)

Rukawa: (Startled) (Mutters) Ack! (Bring his hands up in a guard stance to protect his face)

Yamazaki: Hiyeak! (Breaks through Rukawa's guard and hit Rukawa squarely in the face, sending him out of the Tendo Grounds through the gate…)

#Crack! Thud.#

Rukawa: (Crashes to a stop at a neighbor stone wall forming a crater, outside the Tendo front gate) Itai ja ne ka… [This really hurts…] (Grimaces) (Touches his face painfully) (Stares at the blood staining his hands) … (A flashing vision appears before his mind of a similar pair of bloodied hands which disappear instantaneously) Kore wa…

Kasumi: (Frightened) Ara oto-san. What is going?

Nabiki: (Appears at the genkan) What's going on here? (Thinking) What's up with the sudden noise? Can't a girl take a peaceful slack in her room?

Rukawa: (Thinking) What was that all about? (Shakes his head to clear away the dizziness) (Looks at his bloodied hands again) Ite…

Genma: Hyak! (Performs a double punch combo on Yamazaki)

Yamazaki: (Evades the attack and kicks Genma in the face)

Genma: Ow! (Drops to the ground, painfully clutching his face)

Yamazaki: (Kicks Genma's on the side, his right leg)

#Crack!#

Genma: (Gasps) (Hurtles on the ground ten meters far) (Grimaces in pain)

Yamazaki: (Thinking) Saotome Genma. I still remember you. Pathetic and fat as ever.

Nabiki: (Thinking) Who is this guy? (Slightly frightened) He emits a dangerous atmosphere…

Rukawa: (Gets up unsteadily) (Reaches out a hand to hold to the wall to steady himself and promptly dashes towards Yamazaki) Teme wa yameru na! [Damn you! Stop it!] (Sends multiple punches and kicks targeting at Yamazaki)

Yamazaki: (Dodges every attacks with ease) Still as dismal as usual! Ryu Nagaru! #Syii# (Punches Rukawa in the gut with a glowing fist)

Soun: (Widen eyes) (Thinking) That technique! Shimatta… (Trembles with fear)

Rukawa: (Coughs out blood) (Drops to a crouching position, clutching his gut) (Breathes in painfully) (Thinking) Shimatta… Ite wa yo… [So painful…]

Yamazaki: (Continues with a punch on Rukawa's face)

Rukawa: (Sails through the air and lands on the ground awkwardly) (Groans) Ow… Ite… (Covers his swollen cheek)

Soun: (Worried) (Thinking) One of the most feared techniques of Everything Also Can! Oshishou-sama made enemies with them a decade ago during one of our training trips!

Kasumi: (Worried with fear and anxiety) Rukawa-kun… Dai-daijobou… (Holding onto Soun)

Nabiki: (Scared) (Thinking) Why is he attacking us? Where's Ranma-kun when we need him?!

Yamazaki: Shinguji how unfortunate of you to hide with the practitioners of Anything Goes Martial Arts School.

Rukawa: (Tries to stand up on his feet but failing miserably) (Thinking) He sounds like he knows me… Is my name Shinguji? Then who is Rukawa?

Yamazaki: (Grins wickedly) (Points to Soun and Genma) I was looking for them to execute my revenge for old times sake and new times too. And here you are alive and well, living with them. I thought I killed you. You're a coward for hiding here for so long, never daring to face me again!

Rukawa: (Thinking) What the hell is he talking about? (Coughs out blood) He really knows how to pack power into his punch. Itai… (Tears slowly form) (Rubs the tears away) This is damn hurting. What's going to happen to us… His strength is incomparable.

Yamazaki: You're pathetic! Unable to defeat me and survived my Shi-Shi Unare even at its peak and yet you're running and hiding away from me when you should be out braying for my blood. Isn't revenge on your mind anymore even after I kill Rukawa?!

Soun,Genma&Kasumi: (Stunned) (Thinking) Killed Rukawa?

Rukawa: (The shocking words ache his heart) (Thinking) Rukawa… Rukawa… Rukawa die… Who is… Rukawa dare ka?

Nabiki: (Glares at Yamazaki) Rukawa-kun doesn't remember his past. What do you want here! Anta dare?

Yamazaki: (Glares at Nabiki) Hnn! Korosu! [To kill]

Soun: Don't involve my daughters!

Rukawa: (Thinking) Rukawa-san…

Genma: (Thinking) He's gonna kill us… Maybe even Ranma can't handle this guy.

Kasumi: (Kneeling, holding onto Soun) What is it do you want oji-san? Please don't hurt my family and Rukawa-kun.

Yamazaki: (Turns and smirks at Kasumi) How disgustingly nice of you. Let me start with you. (Points his palm out at Kasumi)

Nabiki: (Freezes in fear momentarily for her older sister)

Kasumi: (Looks on at Yamazaki, flabbergasted)

Rukawa: (Mutters) No… (Gets up unsteadily) (Drops back on his butt) Arghh giddy but… (Sees a blurred Soun getting up) Itai. My head hurts like mad. (Clutches his head) (In his mind, a familiar question ring) "Taisetsu na mono wa nan da?" [Who is the one person that is important to you?]

Yamazaki: (His palm glows as ki energy accumulates and ready to be release) #SYII…#

Kasumi: (Momentarily stops breathing) (Terrified) Onegai yamete… [Pl-please don't…]

Soun: No! Not my daughter! (Push Kasumi away from himself and charges at Yamazaki in an attempt to thwart his attack)

Yamazaki: (Targets the ki attack at Soun) Shinu Tendo Soun! [Die Tendo Soun!] #SIUU!#

Rukawa: Kasumi!

#Ba-boom!#

Soun: Arghhh! (Hurtles to the ground, writhing in pain)

Kasumi: (Snaps out of her shock) Oto-san! (Gets up)

Yamazaki: Shinu! (Targets Kasumi again) #SYII…# (Thinking) Heh Tendo could survive my attack. Oh well it was a weak attack for a weak female. Guess I will increase more power for this one who knows another idiot would try to stop me again. #SYIIIIIIIII!#

Genma: (Utters) Kasumi-san. (Tries to get up) Ite… My leg… (Clutches his right leg) Br-broken.

Rukawa: (In his mind) "Taisetsu na mono wa nan da?" (Mutters) Kasumi, I must protect her.

Kasumi: (Gapes at Yamazaki, staying rooted to her spot, shivering with fear)

Rukawa: (Shakes off his dizziness) Teme! I'm not down yet! (Gets up) (In his mind) "Taisetsu na mono wa nan da?"

Yamazaki: Hek! #SIUUUUUUUUUUU…#

Rukawa: NO! DON'T! (Rushes towards Kasumi) (Thinking) Kasumi.

Nabiki: (Screams) Dareka Kasumi oneechan ga tasuke! Motto hayaku! [Someone help Kasumi! Quick, faster!]

Soun: (Ignores his tremendous pain) (Eyes widen in horror as the ki blast closes down its twenty meter distance to Kasumi and for once tears fail to form) KASUMI! RUN!

Kasumi: (Sees a flashing sphere of blaring energy roaring towards her) (Shivers with fright as her feet remains rooted to the ground) (Softly) Onegai… [Please…]

Rukawa: (Running towards Kasumi, aware of every little distance the ki blast covers as it roars towards Kasumi) (Feels the adrenaline rushing throughout his body) (Thinking heatedly) Kasumi, no…

Kasumi: (Feels the intensity of the spherical force closing towards her) (Softly) Kami-sama…

Nabiki: (Numbness caught in her throat) (Her heart fills with horror) (Her composed look disappears and despair clearly marks across her face) (Her hands grasps to the sliding door for support and unpromising hope…) Iie… Sonna.

Rukawa: (Sees the ki blast traveling through the air, closing its gap with Kasumi) (Thinking frenziedly) Kasumi. (An excruciating pain starts in his head as a familiar emotion of fear arouses…) No… It can't be.

Kasumi: (Feel the goose bumps forming everywhere on her skin) (Faintly) Watakushi no kazoku mamoru buji na… [Keep my family safe…]

Rukawa: (Sees the ki attack continues on its route edging nearer and nearer) (Becomes aware of a familiar agony reviving in his mind) (Terrified) (Thinking) Can't lose Kasumi.

Kasumi: (Turns her head and sees an on-rushing Rukawa) (Recalls)

(Start of recall sequence)

Nabiki: Seriously oneechan, sometimes when you think the time is right, for you to tell him or him to tell you, maybe it could be too late. It could also be there won't be even time for you to tell him your feelings.

(End of recall sequence)

Rukawa: (Sees the space between Kasumi and the threat minimizing rapidly) (His heart throbs acutely as a familiar feeling of anguish stirs… As Kasumi turned to face him) (Thinking solicitously) Kasumi dreams to become a mother and have her own family to love… Nothing more…

Kasumi: (Notices a mixed display of emotions evident on Rukawa's face) (Smiles slightly) (Softly) Soshite Rukawa-kun. [And Rukawa-kun]

Rukawa: (Sees the ki ball of energy blazing treacherously close to Kasumi) (Something in his mind reaches into his heart, tearing it to pieces… When seeing Kasumi smiling selflessly at him) (Thinking resolutely) Her dream, Kasumi… I can't let her die… Die… (A sudden intense sadness overwhelms his soul as a familiar encounter of torment awakens…)

Kasumi: (Close her eyes) (Thinking) Sayonara nandemo mina… [Goodbye everything everyone…]

Rukawa: (Reaches Kasumi, just inches away from her) (Thinking) Push her away from danger! Jump! (In his mind) "Taisetsu na mono wa nan da?" (A sudden erratic state attacks him) (His vision starts to blur out slowly) (Manages to catch a glimpse of the danger, just edges away from Kasumi) (His heart stops beating momentarily) (His mind speaks out to himself) The sight is so heartbreakingly familiar… (His vision of Kasumi's life hanging precariously by a thread disappears and all becomes dark as that unbearable image brings back his tragic lost memories for a fraction of a second) Taisetsu na mono wa nan da? Hai. Kanojo wa omoidasu. [Who is the one person that is important to you? Yes. I remember her]

#BROOOMMMMM!#

#Krikkle krackkle.#

#Klak klak klak…#

Clouds of dust, dirt and gravel envelop both Rukawa and Kasumi upon the shocking collision, obstructing visual sight.

Soun: (Mumbles) She's gone… (Tears flow down his cheeks) Kasumi… Masaka…

Nabiki: (Looks in disbelief) Oneechan…

Genma: (Gapes)

----

End.

A/N: Ok don't kill me my wonderful fellow readers for ending here. I already gave extra 5000 words =D for this volume.

The scene where Kasumi was at the edge of losing her life, which occurs in the space of a few seconds, was far by the hardest I could ever written. The familiar emotions Rukawa experienced as each passing moment as he see Kasumi life "draining" away are all past emotions that were "remembered" as he encounter a similar situation of his past. His feelings for Kasumi at this time and the fear of losing her are equal with the experience he went through before.

Chapter 27: Dreams is what I think that Kasumi would want to be. Looks like a tribute to our mothers. As she shares her dream with Rukawa, Rukawa discover a deeper person in Kasumi and become more confused with himself. Chapter 29: Introspection look into Rukawa's feelings as he try to sort them out. Chapter 27, 28 and 29 build up the emotions between them for chapter 30: Day of reckoning. The trigger as mentioned in chapter 21: Revelations in Volume 4 occurred at the end of Chapter 30.

Chapter 24: Ranma's fantasy was thought up when I already started volume 1. It looks very much like what Ranma would be fantasizing ne? Especially since his idea of revenge is weird (Shout I love you to Nabiki) as shown in Nabiki, Ranma's new fiancée episode which is also related briefly in Volume 1. So is possible his fantasy can be just as weird, right. It is an important scene for Ranma to confess his love since there isn't any Saffron incident. The fantasy pill is a not a bad choice to do that job and also add a little humor as readers are likely to find themselves reading a twist in the plot keke (I hope). Not a rated story wor. I don't have the full imagination to do one nor want to do one. But following Rumiko-san style, they both are still not together as a loving couple yet.

Uploading in another 24 hours possibly for Volume 6, what happened? Tune on. And what the hell is Ranma doing when the known bad guy is visiting the Dojo. Tsk tsk.