Ranma 1/2 Fan Fiction ❯ Mib Guardian ❯ Chapter 1

[ P - Pre-Teen ]

Imported From: RAAC
From: Nicholas Stone <bnstone@ix.netcom.com>

Surprise, surprise!

After all of my moving, transfers, and sea time, I've finally finished
this. Time is definitely not on my side, but after squeezing and crimping, my
before deployment fic is ready (I think) for all to read. Seven parts,
starting with this one, hope everyone enjoys it.

Oh yes, this will be it for about six to seven months, so C&C's are
welcome, but do not expect any immediate replies. E-mail on Navy ships is
still in it's infancy, and I don't want the thought police perusing everything
I'm writing. Beside, I've got to eek out more time for Dark Family: Unwanted
Reunions (Just started today folks!)

Now for the standard disclaimer:
All characters belong to Mrs. Rumiko Takahashi, Viz, Twentieth
Century Fox, and Douglas Adams (Part Five :-] ). No copyright infringement is
intended, and no personal profit gained (except maybe the fact that some folks
do like what I write).

Okay, on with the show...













Men In Black «:
Guardian

By


Nicholas Stone

Part One

Catch a Falling Star

Tokyo's skyline glowed bright beneath a moderate
veil of clouds obscuring curious eyes searching the
heavens for new cosmic abnormalities. An irritated eye
strained fitfully to see, grumbles of frustration
running curses about humanity to the other people
standing about the room.
Professor Hiria Juyru drew back from the sights of
the observatory telescope, He let out a sigh pulling
off his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose
obviously annoyed.
A tall slim woman in her late thirties watched
from her station at the radar scanners, then stood up.
"Are you okay, Professor?" she asked.
"I'd be okay Kiko if Tokyo would just go into a
blackout," Juyru answered.
"That would be nice, but I wouldn't hold my
breath."
Her humor made the professor laugh. "Yes, but I
can always fantasize."
Tomida, another of the professors assistants,
walked in through the doors carrying the late night
treat of hot coffee and doughnuts.
"Yo, folks," he said, smiling brightly.
"Ah, Tomida. Just what I need," said Professor
Juyru coming down from the platform. Taking a cup from
the tray, he sat down in a chair taking a sip, allowing
the warming sensation to flow through him.
"So, Sensei. Find anything yet?" asked Tomida
gesturing to the telescope.
"We were just talking about that," answered Kiko.
"Oh? The capital again?"
"Yep."
"Figures. I guess it's sector 37 tonight."
Sector thirty-seven. How many times had they
scanned that parsec of the sky, thought Juyru. Just
over the rise of Mount Fuji, it's only saving grace was
the lower levels of light pollution, allowing them to
see at least the upper portions of the galaxy.
"Tomida. What have you got the rest of the
students doing?" he asked his man.
"The usual scanning and deciphering of analogous
sound waves down in the lab."
"Have they found your little message yet?"
"Nope. I figure another two hours before somebody
starts getting excited."
Professor Juyru laughed again. "Kiko, train the
telescope over to thirty-seven, please."
Kiko already had the coordinates set into the
computer, the massive telescope slowly turning to the
western portion of the sky. Getting up, Professor
Juyru returned to the chair.
"Well maybe I'll get a good look at Saturn," he
said peering into the lens. "Be nice if I could--."
His abrupt pause was not missed by Kiko and
Tomida. They watched as their sensei's eyes grew
large, mouth slowly gapping open.
"Professor?" called Tomida.
"My goodness," muttered Juyru. Kiko and Tomida
exchanged looks, then as quick as a light, the
professor's mood changed.
"A monitor, quickly Tomida!" he shouted springing
from his chair.
It had to me something important; Tomida rushing
over to the close circuit monitor attached to the
telescope while Kiko returned to her station. The
screen flashed and Tomida's eyes widened.
It appeared to be some form of a spaceship, discus
shaped with a bright green glow that pulsed along its
midsection. The hull was aglow from the entry through
Earth's atmosphere, then a quick arch of light from
told them it was in some sort of trouble.
"Keep the telescope locked on it, Tomida!"
Professor Juyru said. "Kiko, are you tracking it?"
"No. It's not showing up on the radar," she
answered.
"Amazing," said Juyru. He stared at the screen
totally excited by what could be the first sound proof
of extraterrestrial life in the universe. Another
flash lit the ship breaking him from his stupor.
"Professor, this ship is going to crash," said
Tomida.
"They must have suffered some sort of damage while
entering the atmosphere," guessed Juyru. "Kiko, can
you extrapolate a crash point based on the telescope
tracking inputs?"
Kiko called up the computer interface, typing in a
series of commands. After a moment she sat back looking
up at him.
"Sensei, if this is right the UFO will land about
ten miles west of the observatory."
"Excellent! Tomida, get the students up here to
monitor things. Kiko, the land rover is it ready to--
."
"Just filled it this morning, Sensei."
"Good, good!" Professor Juyru gazed upon the
screen triumphantly. He could imagine the awards and
honors there were sure to come once contact was
established with the newcomers. Recognition at last!
"Come Kiko. There is no time to delay if we want
to be there when our guest arrive."
"Shouldn't we notify the authorities, sensei?" she
asked.
"Opportunity knocks only once, dear girl. Don't
you hear it?"
Kiko frowned, a foreboding premonition in her
mind. She glanced back at the screen, then went off to
join the Professor racing for the garage.
If she had only stayed a few minutes longer she
would have seen the second ship that glided down behind
the first one.

* * * * *

By the time the rover wound its way across the
forested sections of the surrounding hills, the
stricken spaceship had impacted casting an eerie
greenish glow along the horizon before fading out.
Professor Juyru urged Tomida to drive faster least
somebody reach the site before them. Certain that the
crash would have been seen by others around the
countryside, he did not want some rural farmer rushing
out to blast what could be the most momentous event in
mankind's history.
Reaching the rise, Tomida brought the landrover to
a halt. Together they all stared at the valley below.
A long deep cut ran through the beginning of the near-
by forest, tall pines splintered and broken along
either side of the smoldering trail. They could hear
the low hum coming from deep within the trees no doubt
their visitor.
Professor Juyru tapped Tomida on the shoulder
motioning him to move in closer. "Sensei?" said Tomida,
a sense of fear in his voice.
Juyru told him to get out, grabbing a flashlight
from the glove compartment. Telling Kiko to stay with
the vehicle, he stepped out joining his prot'g'.
"Amazing isn't it?" said Juyru studying the
carnage.
"No fire after the reentry, no stupendous
explosion. This is certainly going to be something to
write about in the journals," replied Tomida.
They walked into the newly cut path lights panning
across the ground, picking their way through the
debris. The hum they heard earlier started growing
louder, then suddenly it stopped. Both men froze in
their steps.
"You think they shut the engines off?" whispered
Tomida.
"My boy I would not know what caused that sound to
begin with, so I dare not speculate."
Juyru continued on; Tomida wondering if this was
such a bright thing to do unassisted before following.
The Professor's flashlight suddenly caught a bright
metallic object in it's beam not far ahead. He
immediately recognized it as part of the spaceship they
had seen partly buried beneath earth and trees.
Excitement raced through his body.
Juyru stood amazed for a second. "No excessive
heat," he continued move closer. "Our guest must have
thought about debarking as soon as they set down."
"But Sensei, should we not wonder what happened to
cause them to crash like this?"
"Once we find them, Tomida."
"Okay. Better question then. What if our `Guest'
is not of the friendly type?"
Juyru paused, turning to give him a wry look.
"Tomida, shame on you. Has not anything I taught sank
in to your mind?"
"Yes, Sensei, but--."
"There are no buts, Tomida. Now go search the
front of the ship and see if there is a way inside.
I'll look around here."
Tomida still did not like the situation and was
about to object when he thought he heard movement in
the trees to their right. Slowly, his eyes cut over
straining to see what it was that caused the sound.
"Uh, Professor."
"What is it now, Tomida?"
"I think we have company," replied Tomida pointing
to the trees.
Juyru turned the flashlight around sweeping the
area. A branch snapped up back in the trees, something
shuffling back to avoid the light.
"Wait!" cried Juyru quickly running over to the
edge ignoring Tomida's warnings. "We mean you no harm!
Please, stop!"
Whatever it was obviously understood the language,
it's movements coming to a halt. Professor Juyru
squinted hard trying to get a look at what stood in the
shadows. A slight turn of the light and a pair of gold
colored dots reflected in the darkness.
Holding back his surprise, Juyru spoke up. "U-u-
uh, greetings fellow being."
"Professor, let's go!" urged Tomida.
Juyru waved him to silence. "Well then, I see you
could use some help," continued the Professor. He
inched closer towards the trees.
"Sensei, be careful that might be a--,"
"IS THAT A WEAPON?" hissed a deep voice from the
darkness.
Juyru smiled smugly at Tomida before answering.
"No, my friend. It is just an illumination device
we use to see in the dark."
A short silence followed.
"TURN IT AWAY . . . IMMEDIATELY," ordered the
voice.
The professor turned the beam away, not wanting to
upset the extraterrestrial.
More shuffling sounded, Tomida in full panic now
frantically looking around.
"Professor!" he cried.
"Stay calm, Tomida," ordered Juyru. He could see
a form now amidst the darkness, a large form that moved
slowly closer to him.
"ARE YOU AND YOUR OPPOSITE . . . ALONE?" it asked.
"W-w-why yes. That is I mean we have another
colleague waiting for us at our vehicle."
Juyru thought he saw an arm make a sweeping motion
to its side, then something scurried off through the
trees.
"You're not alone," he continued.
"NO."
This only excited the professor even more. "Well
come out and lets have a look at our new friends from
the universe."
"WE WILL, BUT FIRST WE HAVE NEED OF YOUR BAGS,"
answered the being.
"Bags?" questioned Juyru exchanging looks with
Tomida.
"YES. THE BIOLOGICAL COATING YOU INFERIORIODS
WEAR TO HOLD IN YOUR LIFE SUSTAINING OPERATIONS."
Juyru thought again trying to associate the
meaning of the words. "Bags? You mean our . . .
skin?"
"PRECISELY."
Something reached out grabbing hold of the
professors entire head. In the flick of an eye he was
snatched from his feet, muffled cries issuing out of
the trees. Tomida scampered back down the path crying
fearfully into the night sky as he ran for his life.
Out of the trees another dark form bounded in a blur,
catching the hapless man in an effortless move.
Together they tumbled into the trees.
Tomida struggled to no avail, a wail of fear and
pain marking his demise.

* * * * *

Kiko's blood went cold as a long shriek cut the
once quiet night. She recognized Tomida's voice and
hopped out of the landrover running to the edge of the
path.
"Tomida!" she called out. "Tomida, Professor
Juyru? Somebody answer me!"
But the silence had returned and Kiko sensed that
things had gone wrong. It was time to flee the area
with all due haste, and as she turned to run a long
hiss suddenly sounded from the trees.
It certainly was not Tomida, Kiko bolting for the
landrover her wail of terror marking her flight.
Reaching the door, was about to climb in when something
thick and clammy wrapped around her left ankle. She
drew in a long gasp hearing that same hiss again, only
much closer now.
"SSSSSSSPPPRRREEETTYYY BIPOD YYYOOOOUU
AAARRRHHHHSSSSSS," said an ominous voice from behind.
Kiko hesitantly looked over her shoulder catching
sight of the massive thing holding her fast. She began
to scream only too be cut off as it wrapped itself
around her body, thrusting her inside the landrover,
shutting the door behind it.
Violently, the vehicle shook, muffled screams and
cries for help reaching empty space, then as abruptly
as it began the landrover stopped.

* * * * *

The Suburbs of Nerima,

A cloaked figure slinked through the darkened
alleyways of the Nerima streets, staying close to the
shadows, watching the people moving on to their homes
for the evening. It was cold, almost to the point of
life threatening to the figure, but it had to fulfill
its task and that took priority over everything, even
it's own life.
Moving down another side street, the figure paused
peering through several widows trying to find an
appropriate emulation it could take on. So far there
were to many of the humanoids in these dwellings, more
eyes than needed in light of the current situation.
Finally, in a small one room abode sat an old
woman before her cooking stove, the light from a lamp
barely filling the room. Perfect thought the figure
rapping lightly on the door.
The elderly woman stopped stirring the food in the
pot peering over wondering who could be calling at this
time of night.
"Just a minute," she said. Cracking the door ever
so slightly, she looked out into the night. "Yes?"
"Proytection I hummbly seeyk from cold," said the
cloaked figure.
The wizened eyes narrowed at the odd dialect as
she considered the request. Never one to turn down a
soul in need, she opened the door allowing the cloaked
figure to step inside.
"It is a bit nippy out there," she said. "Let me
get you something to warm you up."
The cloaked figure watched her for a moment then
slipped down to the floor. While her back was turned,
it opened a fold of the dark cloak it wore, peering at
something that gave off a faint white glow inside.
Safe for the moment, it realized danger still
threatened, and that pursuit would not be long in
coming. Another protector would be needed, one that
could be relied upon to defend its charge to the very
end.
It glanced up at the elderly woman, closing the
fold as she returned with a tray of hot tea.
"Here, this should help you," she said setting it
down.
It watched in silence as its host poured a
steaming cup. She sat down pouring herself one and
smiled.
"You're not from around here, are you?" she asked.
Trepidation passed through the hooded being for a
moment, then it nodded slightly.
"Yes, one can find themselves unprepared for
Nerima's weather if not informed."
"Nyirma?"
The old woman laughed. "That's Nerima, dear.
Goodness, you must be a tourist that strayed from your
tour."
The cloaked figure remained silent, gazing up out
the window at the moonlit night. This was not safe,
sure that its scent would be followed. A new form had
to be taken, one that could accommodate for just a few
cycles longer until rescue could be summoned.
It gazed back at the old woman. No, it thought as
she smiled at it. A stronger receptacle would be
required, but this creature's form could serve as
effective camouflage for now.
"I . . . I have nyeed of your . . . imiyage," it
said in a low tone.
The old woman tipped her head to one side. "I'm
sorry, I don't have a picture of myself right now. Why
do you need it anyway?"
Not sure what a `picture' was, the cloaked figure
extended its hand picking up the cup and took a
swallow. The warmth felt good, rejuvenating its inner
strength. Suddenly it heard a low gasp from its host
and looked down. She sat petrified, staring at the
almost translucent hand gripping the cup.
"Not fear," said the cloaked figure setting the
cup down. "Hyrm I will cause nyone."
"W-w-w-hy y-y-you not a tourist," replied the old
woman.
The hand reached out taking hold of her wrist in a
firm grasp. It leaned closer.
"No . . . someything myuch more."
The cloaked figures head inched closer then the
hood slowly began to fall back. The old woman wanted
to cry out but terror held her immobile as the face
that appeared was hers. She glanced down at the hand
holding her. It looked human now, complete with age
spots and wrinkles. She looked back up, but before she
could speak a buzz filled her ears.
"Rest," said her new twin.
She caught the old woman before she could fall
back and carefully laid her down on a near-by futon.
Covering her with a blanket, the twin drank down the
rest of the hot tea. Fulfilled for the moment, it
whispered a silent thank you into the old woman's ear,
then went to the door.
Peaking out to see that it was safe, the old woman
walked out into the night.

* * * * *

Inentimus Krin flexed his hands, trying to adjust
the new covering of skin he wore into a comfortable
fit. The fingers stretched finally taking on a
somewhat natural appearance. Krin growled low, flexing
his neck.
"Grahh! These humanoids, how can they function in
such inefficient bodies!" he said.
Behind him a laugh sounded, it's high tremolo
accent carrying distinctly in the air. Walking up in
stiff, jerky motions appeared what used to be Tomida.
"They're like sloppy bags of sludge, Krin," he
said.
Krin rounded on him. "Qu'tok! Cease your
annoying baying and help me straighten out this
suffocating bag!"
The laugh dimmed slightly, Qu'tok shrugging to
adjust his arms. With some difficulty he reached out
taking hold of Krin's cheeks.
"Your nose is crooked," he said. With a sharp
jerk, Qu'tok slid the face of Professor Juyru over
until it was centered.
Krin took in some deep breaths. "Much better," he
said.
"You look quite . . . human, Krin," remarked
Qu'tok.
"Refrain from your insults, Qu'tok," snapped Krin.
"Now what is our situation?"
Qu'tok paused to scratch his head, then rested his
arms in a praying like position.
"Well, Alid and Koo have searched the Guardian's
ship. Alas, the Guardian escaped with the prize."
Krin growled gnashing his teeth from side to side.
"We should have had this Guardian by now! Delays will
only bring more down upon us."
"Not everything is bad, Krin. Teq does have a
scent, and it is not very old."
That was good news to the extraterrestrial.
Pulling on the coat Juyru wore, Krin shuddered against
the cool night air. He looked over the crash sight for
a moment, then turned back to Qu'tok.
"Then we must move," he said.
A rustle from the trees sent them reaching for
concealed weapons. Out of the forest strode what
appeared to be Kiko, her gait slightly swaying from
side to side as she approached. Krin relaxed, standing
straight again.
"About time, Binimi," he said.
"You know I would be along, Krin," she replied,
flicking her long slender tongue at him playfully.
"What kept you?"
"I had to clean up the evidence. Wouldn't want my
cordial host to go to waste now, would we?"
Krin managed a smirk.
"Krin," called Qu'tok drawing his attention again.
"Progress?" he said arching a brow.
That brought Krin back on track. "Yes. Have Alid
and Koo clean up this mess and conceal the Guardian's
ship. The rest of us will go after our elusive prey
and take our prize."
"We will need more coverings," Qu'tok reminded
him.
`We'll acquire some--." He paused squinting at
the blood speckled badge dangling from Binimi's jacket
lapel. "At this Onashi Observatory."
"Wherever that is," Binimi said.
"It cannot be far. Come, let us go before the
scent becomes stale."
The three started walking back towards the crash
site, when suddenly Krin stopped. He stared at them.
"What is wrong?" asked Qu'tok.
"You had better adjust your mannerisms, or you
might give us away" he said.
"Well I can't imagine how these things can move on
`legs'," complained Binimi. "It is awkward."
"And their arm appendages could use with a few
more millenium of evolution," added Qu'tok.
"Look human, move human, think human!" snarled
Krin. "I will not have our intentions disrupted by
them."
He strode on, Binimi and Qu'tok noticing the
lunging gait Krin made with each step that he took.
They exchanged looks, then fought to hold back their
snickers as they followed.

* * * * *


Uuchans, Nerima, 09:00PM

Yawning long and wide, Akane Tendo leaned against
the counter trying hard to figure out the crossword
puzzle in the book below her. She glanced up at the
clock noting the time.
"Works about over," she said to herself happily.
The night shift was never her favorite part of this
job, and she swore Ukyo had purposely placed her in
this time slot as a way of revenge.
Sometimes she wanted to quit, but there were
advantages to it. She had most of the days to herself,
a welcome relief after several years of mayhem and odd
happenings. The crowds were not as bad, in fact she
hardly had more than twenty customers a night so no
complaints there. College was just around the corner,
so she had more time to prep for her up coming courses.
Still, there was something missing.
Akane sighed, resting her chin on her hand and
stared out the front windows into the night. Ranma,
she thought, his image collecting in her mind. She
still didn't want to admit her feeling towards him, but
now more than ever her thoughts would eventually end up
there. They hardly got the chance to spend some
quality time together. With him working the afternoon
shift, that left only the weekends and sometimes lunch
that they could see each other. Maybe they weren't
meant to be together after all.
Shaking her head to clear that last thought, Akane
returned to the crossword puzzle.
"Hmm. Twenty-three down. Another word for
attachment." Akane counted the squares. "Four
letters," she said going into deep thought. It eluded
her for a moment, then Akane smirked staring hard at
the page.
"Love," she said scratching in the letters.
Roughly she placed the book down and pushed it
aside. It was time to close up anyway. Akane went
around the counter and started placing chairs up on the
tables. Konatsu was still out on the final deliveries,
so she left the doors unlocked pending his return.
Turning the closed sign over, Akane headed back around
the counter and was just about to turn off the grill
when the front bell chimed.
At the entrance stood an old woman gazing around
as if she were searching for something. Her eyes fell
on Akane and she smiled.
"Warmth?" she said.
"We're about to close, but please come in,"
replied Akane coming around to greet her.
Seating her at the counter, Akane quickly got her
some hot chocolate.
The old woman drank down the liquid with hardly a
pause. She let out a satisfied sigh setting down the
cup.
"Wow, you really must have needed that," said
Akane. The strange gaze returned, Akane looking
slightly to one side. She did not look like a
vagabond, although the dark robe she wore certainly
could give that sort of impression. There was
something about her though that Akane found strangely
likeable.
Finally, the old woman spoke. "That was much
needed."
"Hmm. In that case, why don't you let me fix you
up a fresh okonomiyaki."
The old woman grimaced glancing around once more.
"Food?" she asked.
"Why yes."
If it was safe the old woman could not be sure,
but there was this strange gnawing at her midsection
that refused to go away.
"That, that would be nice."
Akane smiled. Pulling out a tub of batter, she
carefully spooned some on the grill spreading it
around. As it cooked, she began cutting up some
vegetables and mushrooms on the counter.
"Kind of a cold night to be walking about isn't
it, ma'am?" asked Akane while she worked.
"Uh . . . a cold night yes," replied the old
woman.
Akane arched a brow at the reply, but kept on
working. "Being alone could make you a target for some
hooligans out for a quick raid."
The slight start from the old woman made her
pause. She looked up to see an expression of shock on
her face.
"These `Hooligans', are they from this planet?"
asked the old woman.
Huh? Akane found the question both humorous and
strange at the same time. She rubbed her chin hiding
the smile on her face.
"Ah, well I guess you could say that," she
answered.
Relief flowed through the old woman.
"Nothing to worry about then."
A strange reply, but Akane let it pass. Soon she
had the hot entr'e done resting on a dish looking as
good as it tasted. She placed the okonomiyaki before
the old woman and smiled.
"Eat up," she said.
The old woman eyed the dish for a moment. Leaning
forward, she sniffed at it checking for edibility. Out
of eyesight Akane's expression started turning into a
frown. It didn't look bad, she thought remembering how
much Ranma and the rest of her family shied away from
her cooking. A hesitant hand picked up the chopsticks
and took a piece of the okonomiyaki. She watched
expectantly as the first bite was taken, nibbling on
her bottom lip while the old woman chewed.
"Hmm . . . a different . . . taste," she finally
said.
"So you like it!" exclaimed Akane.
"It is most . . . enjoyable."
"Yes!" Akane cried out sending the old woman into
wonder.
"Why such a reaction?" she asked.
"Oh, those doubters I work with. They have this
strange idea that I can't cook a decent meal. Really,
can you believe that?"
The old woman took another bite. "These
`doubters', are they of a different breed?"
Akane burst out laughing. "I think sometimes they
are, but no. My family is starting to come around,
thanks to Kasumi's help, but then there is one skeptic
I'd like too--,"
A dark frown covered Akane's face making the old
woman pause. "Is there something wrong?" she asked.
Akane shook off the thought. "No, just thinking
about my so-called fianc'e Ranma."
A brow narrowed. "Your . . . Ranma?"
"No, no," replied Akane giggling like a young
schoolgirl. "Ranma is my fianc'e, I mean supposed
fianc'e!"
"Fi-an-ce?"
This poor lady must be loosing her faculties,
mused Akane surprised by her response. Maybe she was
in need of help, slightly down on her luck perhaps?
"Yes, you see it's an arranged marriage, and . . .
well there are some differences between us.
Personality wise I mean."
"Oh! A Union!" cried out the old woman. "Are you
to be the bearer?"
"Bearer?" said Akane in shock imagining what she
could only mean.
"Yes. Do you reprocreate on this planet?"
The heat rose in her, cheeks flushing a brilliant
red. Quickly, Akane turned away holding her hands to
her face.
"What is it, child?" questioned the old woman.
"I've, I've never thought about that. Not in much
detail at least," Akane answered.
Taking another bite, the old woman eyed her in
silence for a moment. This one held promise. Such
innocence, such . . . honesty.
"Please, I meant not to offend you. Forgive?"
Akane drew in a sigh. She took a quick glance
over her shoulder then turned around. "You did not
offend me. I wasn't expecting such straight
forwardness from anyone."
"It is wrong to procreate here in this Nyrima?"
"Oh no, not in the least bit. We just haven't
addressed that issue yet, Ranma and I."
"So this Ranma, he is your Guardian?"
The smile returned on Akane's face. "He likes to
think that."
Reflecting on their past, Akane found herself
thinking about all of the times Ranma had come to her
rescue risking life and limb with total disregard for
himself. Despite all of their arguing, despite all of
the swearing that he had no interest in such an
`uncute' tomboy, Akane knew that deep down Ranma truly
held feelings for her.
And that she held the same feelings for him.
"I guess you can say that," she finally admitted
to the elderly lady.
"I figured as much," she replied. "There is an
aura in your eyes when you speak of him."
Akane laughed staring down at the floor to hide
the sudden blush again. "That evident, eh?"
The old woman nodded. She finished the last
remaining bites of her meal and sat up straight. "Your
kindness might have save a life," she said.
"Well I always try to help those in need."
"I am sure your compassion will save another, more
deserving one than mine."
That made Akane start slightly. She drew slightly
back from the counter head turning slightly to one
side. "What do you mean by that?" she asked.
"You have all the qualities of a fine Guardian.
Your consort, Ranma? He will be a very lucky one once
you have bonded together."
"Really? That sound very nice, but we still have
a ways to go before crossing that line."
"In time it will come," replied the old woman. A
broad smile came to her face. "Now come here. I must
reward you for your kindness."
"Uh, that's okay," replied Akane holding her hands
up before her. "I don't need any rewards. Helping you
was enough."
"Nonsense." An arm shot out, Akane surprised by
the speed for such a frail looking old lady, taking a
firm but gentile hold of her wrist. The grip was warm
and Akane shuddered not knowing what to expect next.
"Relax," said the old woman sensing her fear. "I
will not harm you."
An odd sensation began rushing up through Akane's
arms. It quickly spread through her body, and she
found herself giving in to the old woman's soothing
voice. A lightness started to hit her mind, the ground
beneath her feet growing soft as if it were not there
at all.
"who . . . who are you?" she muttered.
The old woman's head tipped slightly to one side.
"A fellow being in need of a Guardian," came the dim
reply moments before she slipped into darkness.

* * * * *

The Foothills of Mt. Fuji, 09:10 PM

Through the darkness of the night a jet-black car
moved silently along the vacant road, its ultra-modern
engine propelling the vehicle at faster than normal
pace. It turned suddenly off the road and began
crossing the run of a wide field heading for the near-
by stretch of forest.
Stopping short of the treeline the car powered
down, and as the dust settled two men stepped out.
Both of them were dressed in black suits, white shirts,
black shoes and tie. The driver reached into his
jacket pulling out a oblong chrome colored object,
popping it open and held it out in front of him. He
swept the area, noting the flashing colored lights on
the inside, then closed it up.
"The crash was definitely in this area," he said.
"O, do you have any life readings?"
The man addressed as O stared into a small
handheld monitor sweeping the ground. He said nothing
for a minute, then stopped as the scanner locked onto
something.
"Got a trace residue trail here, F," O replied.
"Type?"
"Hmm, could be Sycarilloid. I'd have to get a
better trace to be sure."
F gazed around at their surroundings for a moment
thinking. If a ship did come down here then quite
possibly it could be using some sort of cloaking screen
for cover. But M.I.B. Headquarters reported two ships,
one apparently in distress, the other in trail.
"O, let's check out the forest and see if we can
find anything there," he said.
They walked across the field O in the lead
following the residue trail. It lead them to a shallow
path snaking into the forest and F called a halt.
"This any better?" he asked his partner.
O knelt, taking a sample from the soft earth.
Patiently, they waited as the analyzer ran it's checks.
A series of colored jewels ran in a straight line
across the center, different colors denoting different
forms of life. The red one suddenly lit up.
"Definitely a Sycarilloid," reported O. He
started, frowning at the readout. The green jewel had
lit up. "We also have a Bug!"
"A Bug?" questioned F. "A Bug and a Sycarilloid
together?"
O paused as another jewel lit up. "You won't
believe this but there's also a Lupicanus with them
also," he finally said.
Three totally opposite species in the same area,
and no signs of a fight? This one was starting to get
very strange to F. Leaning up against a near-by tree,
F started reaching for his communicator when he noticed
his shoulder sinking into the bark of the tree.
Immediately he pulled back drawing away part of the
bark, strands of a sticky gossamer white material
clinging to the back.
"What the hell?" said O staring at the mess.
F turned his light around so they could get a
better look at what it was clinging to his jacket.
"Uh, oh," sounded F looking around at the forest.
"Is that what I think that is?" said O.
"Looks like webbing," replied F.
Immediately, O's blaster flashed from his jacket.
He knelt with weapon poised searching the trees.
"Great, we've got Nid's out here too," he whispered.
F did not respond. He examined the webbed tree
noting where parts of it held shattered branches to the
trunk, other parts finely intertwined with thicker
strands covered by bark and dirt to conceal the color.
"O, it seems the Nid's were piecing the forest
back together," he said.
"They were what?"
F turned panning his light on the next group.
"You see," he pointed out more of the webbing spun
about the branches. "They're hiding something, and
I'll bet you it's our ship."
"Which one?"
"Doesn't matter." He reached back for his
communicator. "We need to get base informed and get
some--,"
Something large scuttled through the tree tops
drawing the two M.I.B. agents around. F drew his
blaster dropping into a crouch.
"See it?" whispered O shining his light up.
"No."
"That's not good. I think a hasty retreat is in
order here, F."
"Concur. Get moving, I'll cover you."
O inched back, but made only a few steps when a
hiss sounded followed by a wet thud.
"EEEEEFFFFF!" cried O as the mass of webbing
ensnared him. F turned to shoot but O was snatched
from the ground into the tree tops. His cries and
screams echoed through the air.
That was enough for F. He ran, reaching for his
communicator to sound the alarm. Something heavy and
wet ensnared his hand, pinning it to a tree. Straining
to break free, F struggled to no avail. Another mass
trapped a leg, still another pinning him face forwards
against the trunk. He gasped letting out a cry for
help. The sound of movement behind made him stop, eyes
cutting back to the side as his terror increased.
"Now who's going to help you, little human, hmm?"
screeched a thin voice.
F's cry pierced the night sky.

* * * * *

Finding more coverings for the remaining members
of his group proved not to difficult once they located
the Onashi Observatory. Leaving the fate of the
victims in their hands, Krin sat looking over the data
in the main center of the building. His finger traced
along the words of a log book in an attempt to
understand this strange writing. A short scream made
him look up, then through the doors Qu'tok and another
female entered the room.
"Status?" asked Krin of Qu'tok.
"There was no trouble. In fact there was quite a
selection of coverings to choose from."
"Yeah," said the young woman brightly. "Say,
Krin. You didn't tell me how I look." She raised her
arms twirling around in a circle. Krin eyed her new
looks, secretly impressed at how the human covering fit
so well. Her short dark hair glimmered beneath the
lights, petite body moving gracefully in a slow
gyrating motion.
"Stop that, Morea," Krin snapped. He shook back
his urges, letting out a deep grunt before resuming his
study of the book.
"Now, Qu'tok. This language is difficult, but I
seem to have made out its meaning."
Qu'tok moved closer. "Anything we can use?" he
asked peering over Krin's shoulder.
"This place is called Jaaa-paan, and the human
enclave Tooykiyo. The Guardian is certain to find
refuge in it's expanse."
"Oh good. Does that mean we get to destroy all
these creatures, Krin. Oh can we, please, please,
pleeease!" begged Morea.
Krin snapped the book shut. "No! we've not the
time for trivial pillaging on this backwater planet."
Morea snapped out an alien curse, crossing her
arms in frustration. "But we've not had any fun in so
long," she grumbled.
"Fun later," replied Krin. "Speaking of which,
you did save coverings for Alid and Koo?"
Another short cry sounded, Qu'tok taking a quick
glance over a shoulder. "Ah, I told the others to do
that. Hopefully Teq and Binimi will control
themselves. We all know what Binimi looks like after
she's feasted."
There was nothing more of interest for Krin here,
and he decided it was time to set out in pursuit of
their quarry. Returning down to the ground floor the
three made their way into the garage. There they found
Binimi stretched out on the tarmac with eyes shut, a
pleasant grin on her face. Leaning against the wall
next to her stood a tall stocky young man picking his
teeth with the tip of a slim dagger.
"Did you enjoy your feast, Teq?" asked Krin.
Teq stood up and slipped the dagger inside the
winter coat he wore. "It was sustaining," he said
smacking his lips.
"Mmm, what's for desert?" asked Binimi.
Krin looked down at her with a frown. "You did
not eat too much, did you? This is not the time for
one of your long hibernation's."
Binimi opened her eyes then slowly sat up.
"Please, Krin. This small snack?"
"Although this brand of humanoid is just a bit
stringy," added Teq.
"Yeah, my thoughts too," said Morea. "A little
tenderizer and maybe some--,"
"This is not a banquet!" shouted Krin ending their
discussion. Clenching his fist to hold back his
annoyance, he asked where the final member of the team
was.
"Out guarding the gate," answered Teq. Krin
motioned them to follow heading out side.
In the guardshack at the gate Krin spotted the
only member of his crew not needing a covering from the
local inhabitants. It would have been extremely
difficult to say the least, the hulking humanoid's
towering frame would easily require special sizing. At
the sound of their approach, he stepped out of the
booth.
"Ah, Glator," said Krin greeting him with a
friendly smile.
Glator stared down at them for a moment. His skin
held a slight reddish hue to it, but the only outright
oddity that marked him as being alien was the small
size of his head. In relation to the rest of his body,
it seemed out of place. A short blonde streak of hair
ran from his forehead to the nape of his neck certain
to draw more attention to him.
"This hunt is stale, Krin," Glator's deep voice
grumbled.
"Not yet, Glator. The Guardian has a lead but
we'll soon be upon it."
"Why do we delay then?"
"We are waiting for Alid and Koo."
Glator let out a throaty growl looking back to the
road. Krin patted him on one arm.
"Patience, Glator. You will have your chance, I
promise that."
"Glator is bored," he replied.
Krin laughed. "Teq, I trust you still have the
scent?"
Teq raised his head sniffing at the air. "Yes,
I've still the scent, Krin. It is starting to weaken
with all of this compounding smell around us."
"Then we can't wait for Alid and Koo," replied
Krin.
"You are planning to leave them behind. Alone,
Krin?" Qu'tok said in disbelief.
"They will have to catch up," answered Krin.
Qu'tok was about to advise against that when Teq
suddenly raised his hands. Stepping out into the road,
he tipped an ear to the dark.
"Something is coming," he said.
Krin arched a brow, backing away into the shadows
with the rest of the group. Soon a high pitched whine
cut the night air, and a pair of headlights turned the
corner racing towards the closed gates. The car
stopped and two men dressed in black suits stepped out.
They peered through the chainlink fence.
"Oh, Krin!" called the driver honking the horn.
"Stop that!" cried Teq, holding his hands to his
ears. Qu'tok stepped out of the dark.
"Hello, Q," said the other man. "Sorry we're
late, but we managed to find some coverings for
ourselves."
Qu'tok opened the gate. "And I suppose this
vehicle took some time to negotiate?"
"Come now, Qu'tok. We had to fit ourselves into
these things, and that took some doing."
"No excuse, Alid. We were about to leave you two
behind."
"Really?" Alid and Koo traded looks. "That
hurts," finished Alid.
"Not as much as I want to hurt you now," growled
Krin stepping out into the light. "You two have
delayed our--,"
Krin froze in his steps, a sharp look of shock on
his face. He stared at the two mouth dropping lower
and lower as he looked back and forth.
"Krin?" said Binimi.
Krin let out a vicious snarl, stalking menacingly
towards them. "WHAT-HAVE-YOU-DONE!!!" he growled.
Alid and Koo curled up protectively as Krin stood
before them chest heaving with anger.
"Krin, what is it?" asked Morea.
"YOU FOOLS!" raged Krin.
"What, what have we done wrong?" pleaded Koo.
"Do you know who's coverings you have taken!"
The two slowly stood up. They looked themselves
over wondering what he meant by that remark.
"Nooo," trailed Qu'tok shaking his head.
"I'm sorry. I'm at a loss here," said Alid.
"Those are M.I.B. uniforms you wear, stupid!"
snapped Krin.
"Glator kill M.I.B. agents!" cried Glator surging
towards them.
Alid and Koo cried out again, but Krin quickly
interposed himself between them.
"Stop, Glator. They are on our side!" he said.
Glator stopped, and Krin rounded on the two. "But you
have killed M.I.B. agents, and that means trouble!"
"M.I.B., huh? Explains all the high tech
equipment in this car," said Koo.
Krin raised a hand ready to strike him, but held
it back. He growled again thinking about what to do
now.
"Krin, M.I.B. will be swarming all over this place
very soon," said Qu'tok. "We might want to return to
the ship and leave?"
"No," answered Krin. "We've come this far and are
to close now to stop."
"So what do we do?" asked Binimi.
Krin glanced at Alid and Koo, then cut his eyes
from side to side as a plan formed.
"This might have not been such a bad thing for us
after all," he said.
Teq and Qu'tok traded confused looks wondering
what their leader had in mind. Krin turned.
"Teq, Binimi go after the Guardian," he ordered
them. "Find it and return to the ship.
"What about you?" Binimi asked.
A devious smile came to Krin's face. "M.I.B. on
this planet meant we would have crossed paths anyway."
"Meaning?" said Morea.
"Let's head them off before they can muster enough
power against us."
"Head them off? Krin we don't even know where
M.I.B. is located in this city."
"I know, but I'll bet this vehicle does."
Qu'tok's shrill laugh sounded, liking the plan.
"You are a scheming one Krin," he said.
"I know. Teq, Binimi get moving."
"Are you sure you won't need our help?" asked
Binimi.
"We will manage, now go. Go, go, go!" he answered
waving them off. The two quickly complied.
Krin rubbed his hands together gazing around at
the rest of his team.
"Now, let us go pay a visit to M.I.B.."

* * * * *

Akane's eyelids fluttered open, vision slowly
returning to focus. She pressed a hand to her forehead
and drew in an exhausted breath wondering what had just
happened. She was still in Ucchan's that much was
certain.
"W-what?" muttered Akane looking around.
"Are you alright, dear?" asked a voice from the
counter.
Akane's gaze fell on the old woman seated on the
stool watching her curiously. No, this isn't right,
she thought still slightly confused. A glance up at
the clock read the time to be 09:52. I could have
sworn it was only fifteen past.
Standing up from the stool she sat on, Akane
walked over to the counter and leaned against her
elbows.
"Uh, I'm not quite sure, madam," she answered the
old woman. "I seem to have lost track of time."
"Hmm, you must be tired dozing off like that in
the middle of our conversation."
"I, I did?" The old woman nodded. "Goodness, I
can't believe how rude I've been."
"I understand."
"Uh, what were we talking about?"
"Your Guar-I mean fianc'e."
"Ranma?"
"That's the dear boy's name. Such a lucky young
man to have found a responsible girl like you."
Akane grinned lightly. "Yeah, well I've still
have yet to--, what am I saying? Ranma and I are not
officially an item, so I don't foresee marriage anytime
soon."
A gentle hand patted her forearm tenderly. "Never
deceive yourself young lady."
Now what does she mean by that? wondered Akane
standing up. Through the front doors Konatsu suddenly
appeared wheeling the delivery bike inside. He paused
not expecting anyone to be in, then glanced up at the
clock.
"Sorry I am late," he said placing the bike
against the wall.
"No problem, Konatsu. I'm just about done here
anyway," replied Akane.
Konatsu walked up to the counter and gazed at the
old woman. He narrowed an eye slightly as if something
was wrong. A slight shake of his head, he looked at
Akane again. "Have you started any of the clean-up?"
"No, I'm still hosting our customer."
"Then I will get the back," answered Konatsu
heading around the counter. He stopped, taking another
glance at the old woman, then scratched his head trying
to shake the odd feeling he sensed and disappeared
through the kitchen doors.
"Sorry about that," Akane apologized.
"No worries," replied the old woman.
"Well I've got to start closing up the
restaurant," continued Akane. "Would you like
something else to eat? Maybe some sweet bean rolls for
desert?"
"I have eaten enough. But I could use--,"
The old woman's head turned abruptly around to the
far windows. She stared at them, concentrating hard
with eyebrows furrowed close together. Akane looked to
see what she was staring at, then the old woman got off
the stool and walked over to the pane gazing out into
the night.
"Ma'am?" called Akane, but she did not reply. A
figure slowly appeared beneath the glow of a distant
street lamp up the street, bringing a deep frown to the
old woman's lips. Pulling down the shade, she returned
to the counter.
"I must be . . . going," she said to Akane.
"Is there something wrong. Do you need some
help?"
The old woman looked deep into Akane's eyes.
"Your kindness is admirable," she said reaching out to
rub the side of Akane's cheek affectionately. "No, I
must be going now. What is the cost for the meal?"
"On the house," answered Akane. "But you don't
have to leave because we're closing."
"It is well that I do," she replied. The old
woman started to turn then paused. Taking Akane's
hands in hers, she placed a serious look on the girl.
"Take care of yourself, child. And . . . stay close to
your Guardian."
What? thought Akane as the old woman went to the
side door. She peered out, pulled the hood over her
head and in one fluid move darted out of sight.
"Ma'am, wait a minute!" called Akane. Vaulting
the counter, she ran to the door and stepped out. She
was thoroughly surprised to see the old woman's figure
already half-way up the street. Something moved in the
shadows not far behind, something that seemed to lope
after her like a predator stalking prey.
Akane gasped low and started to return inside to
call the police when she spotted a tall woman leaning
against the lamppost across the street. Their eyes
met, then the woman stood straight and began moving
down the side street. Her gaze never left Akane's, and
as she passed Akane could swear she flicked her tongue
at her before smiling with a wink before disappearing
into the darkness.
A fearful shudder passed through Akane and she
quickly darted back inside.

* * * * *

The FUJI T.V. Building, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 10:27 PM

Fuji Television Building was lit up as usual,
bathing the almost empty streets beneath a dull glow.
Nothing out of the ordinary to draw extra attention, a
quiet peaceful night that suited Krin well as the
commandeered M.I.B. car glided towards the side garage
doors.
There was no need for them to get out, special
hidden sensors identifying the car automatically
opening the gates. It rolled into the garage, coming
to a stop inside a yellow painted rectangle at the
center.
"What now, Krin?" question Alid from the drivers
seat.
"Wait," he replied. "Glator, move your arm from my
neck!"
"Glator not like being cramped," protested the
gargantuan pressed uncomfortably in the corner of the
back seat.
A high pitched whine sounded, then the floor
beneath them shook, descending down into the bowels of
the earth. Time seemed to stop for a moment, the team
gripping their weapons nervously expecting a trap.
Suddenly, two doors parted in front, opening up to
another garage where several M.I.B. vehicles sat being
serviced or ready to go. Human and Aliens both worked
side by side, M.I.B.'s Tokyo Department that kept a
close eye on extraterrestrial visiting this part of the
Earth. The car lurched, rolling out to a stop in the
center of the garage.
"Hey, F. How's it going?" called a green-skinned
bipedal alien dressed in gray overalls.
Krin tapped Alid lightly on the back. "I think
he's talking to you," he said.
"Oh, oh yes," muttered Alid. He rolled down his
window. "Uh, fine, just fine. Ran into a few guest on
the way back over."
The alien peered into the back of the car, black
bug like eyes blinking curiously at them. "Survivors
from that crash?"
"Yeah, that's um, it." Alid gave Koo a nudge,
motioning him to get out.
"Evening, O."
"Yes, yes it is," replied Koo. Krin rolled his
eyes up in frustration.
"So what'd you want done with the car, or are you
guys done for the night?"
Alid looked up at the ceiling, marking the
surveillance units before responding.
"Clean it, and check under the hood for a strange
knock we heard earlier," he answered.
"Knock? Maybe you hit a rock?"
"We heard a knock form the engine," said Koo.
The mechanic shook his head. "Not likely. No
moving parts in a Model 3 engine."
"Let's get a second opinion on that," said Alid.
The alien mechanic mimicked a frown, then called
over to a stall across from them. "Hey, Sk-tic. F and
O here say they heard a knock in this M3. What do you
think about that?"
A slim head popped up from between two cars,
stalked eyes panning around to them. It uttered
something unintelligible, then chortled in what Alid
and Koo could only imagine was a laugh. Alid looked
back into the car at Krin.
"Surveillance cams will pick us up as soon as we
strike, Krin. Still want to go through with this?"
"Of course. We will just have to strike hard and
fast."
Alid arched a brow. "Anytime you're ready."
Krin gave Qu'tok and Glator a nod, and the two
opened the back doors stepping out.
In the garage Koo stood calmly arguing with the
mechanics standing around him, insisting that their
claim was true. At the sight of Glator all talking
ceased, expressions dropping in shock.
"My, what a large fellow," said a female human
slowly backing away.
"Intimidating, no?" asked Koo. Turning to Alid,
he asked, "Is it time to party yet?"
"By all means," replied Alid, reaching into his
jacket.
"Party?" questioned the alien mechanic.
His answer was short and brutal, the burst from a
M.I.B. blaster kicking him into the far wall. Qu'tok
stepped out from behind him wielding a slim rifle in
his hands. He sprayed the area, cutting down the rest
of the mechanic's scurrying for safety.
Glator let out a roar, backhanding the woman next
to Koo propelling her across the expanse of the garage.
"Alid, Koo, the Cam's!" shouted Qu'tok.
Quickly, the two pseudo-agents shot out the
security cameras, resuming their task of extermination
without pause. In minutes it was over. Krin got out
followed by Morea.
"Excellent," he said powering up his blaster.
"We better get moving before they regroup," said
Qu'tok. Glator went to the back of the car and ripped
the hood off the trunk. Picking up a large rifle with
an extremely huge gaping maw, he slammed a clip into
the magazine and powered it up.
Meanwhile, Krin had gone over to the floorplan
next to the main door. He looked over the layout with
a close eye.
"Hmm, it's even got my language here," he said to
Morea standing behind him. "How convient."
"Krin," said Morea with some urgency.
Krin studied the layout, then pointed to a
section. "Qu'tok, take Alid and Koo down to the
computer room. Destroy it. Glator, Morea and I will
take out the command center. 66 Bises, not a delio
longer. Clear?"
"Right. Standard raid format," answered Qu'tok.
He opened the door, gunning down two agents rushing up
the passageway, then lead Alid and Koo off to their
destination.
"Aw, how come they get the easy job?" Morea
whined.
"Cease your sniveling," snapped Krin. "You have
the explosives?"
"Yes, Krin. I'm not stupid," she replied.
Krin let out a low grunt. He glared down the
passageway, then with a curt nod led them out.

* * * * *

M.I.B. Tokyo's command center was a smaller copy
of M.I.B. Headquarters, the only noticeable difference
was the boarding and disembarking platform for the
hypertrams that connected them to the rest of the
world. Currently, all activities stopped, Agents
looking up as the emergency alarm began to wail.
"What's going on?" shouted the supervising agent
in charge of the complex from a platform overlooking
the main monitors. A human agent turned around from
his console.
"We have intruders in the complex!" he reported.
"What! How did they get in?"
"Looks like the garage, but I can't--,"
A rumble passed through the room. Abruptly, every
monitor and console winked out of operation. The
Supervisor stood aghast.
"Get power back up!" he shouted running down the
flight of stair.
"Back-up systems will take a few minutes to
respond!"
He growled a low curse, looking down at the multi-
limbed being manning the station next to them.
"How long before we get power?"
[Klootok HvvReee.]
"Damn!" snapped the Supervisor banging his fist
against the console. "That's too long. How many
attacker are there?"
"No count, but the last report said they split up
into two groups. One headed down into the lower
sections, the other headed up the main corridor."
"Main corridor?" The Supervisor spun around to
the entrance. "That means they're headed here!"
He was answered by a powerful explosion that send
shrapnel and debris hurling through the command center.
Clutching the gapping gash on the side of his face, the
Supervisor looked up. Out of the swirling mist Glator
appeared, casting a threatening glance about the room.
Spotting the main console, he trained his rifle on it,
a clack sounding as the next round moved into position.
The multi-armed being let out a stream of mutters as it
scampered over the top to clear the area. Glator
fired, killing the Supervisor and those around him.
None of the agents in the center were armed making
this a cake walk for the three beings dealing out death
and destruction. Krin laughed snapping off burst after
burst into his victims; Morea wielding a wand like
weapon in her hand doing the same. The upper platform
shattered beneath a barrage of Glator's fire, then Krin
told them to stop. He looked around, pleased at the
results.
"Excellent. Extremely excellent," he said.
"Morea, hand me the explosives."
Morea placed four semi-flat disk in his hand.
Setting the timers on them, Krin gingerly tossed them
one at a time about the room. Steps sounded, a blurred
figure darting along the upper boarding platform,
diving into one of the open hypertrams. It's engine
kicked on, the door slamming shut, and the tram started
moving down the tube. Krin sneered at it.
"Morea," he said.
The woman was already on the move. She ran,
setting three explosive charges in her hand and tossed
them up. Metallic clicks sounded as they attached
themselves to the exterior of the tram. It whisked
down the tunnel.
"He's getting away!" Glator shouted.
Morea smiled. She calmly walked towards them,
glanced quickly over her shoulder, then started a slow
countdown.
"Right . . . about . . . now," she finally said.
The rumble of a distant explosion echoed up the tunnel.
"Always showing off, Morea," Krin said grinning.
"Hey, I'm good."
Krin looked at the timepiece on his wrist. "Let's
go. Our job is done here."

* * * * *

Smoke billowed up into the night sky as an
underground fire blazed beneath the Fuji Television
building. Fire trucks surrounded the area; police
sectioned off the streets to keep back the crowd of
spectators looking on in shock at the catastrophe. Off
near the surrounding shadows six people stood enjoying
the spectacle, quite pleased with their work. Krin
felt an elation of power flow through him, confidence
on the rise that their task on this planet would be
successful now that M.I.B. was temporarily out of the
picture.
"Hey, Krin," called Koo.
"Yes?" replied Krin, gaze locked on the burning
building.
"Now that M.I.B. is gone, can we take off these
stupid bags and move around freely?"
Krin slowly looked around. "Certainly not," he
said. "These stupid humans would only disrupt our
progress if they saw us in our true forms."
"Yes, but this bag is very uncomfortable," said
Alid.
"Not to mention this ugly M.I.B. uniform just has
to go," added Koo.
"You've been taking lessons from Morea, haven't
you?" asked Krin, eyes cutting back and forth between
the two.
"Huh?" they sounded.
"Quit your whining!" shouted Krin.
"M.I.B. is not totally gone," said Qu'tok.
"Setback, yes. Gone, no. The longer we dally, the
more likely we'll run into them again."
"Glator kill M.I.B. agents."
"That's another reason why I want to get out of
this," Koo said.
"Shut up! Qu'tok is right." Krin gazed back at
the building, mind formulating their next course of
action. "Binimi and Teq have succeeded hopefully.
Otherwise, we will have more trouble."
"I'm not worried," said Morea. She slinked up,
hugging one of Krin's arms tight. "If M.I.B. is
anything like this group we should have no problems
handling them."
"We got lucky, Morea," replied Krin. He smiled.
"But they were handled effectively."
"And now we're going to?" said Qu'tok.
"Head back to the ship and check on Teq and
Binimi."
"Good. I'm hungry," declared Glator.
"Not a bad idea, Glator," said Alid. "Say Krin,
can we stop and grab a few humans to nibble on?"
"And change these bags?" Koo said.
The resulting dark glower made both men cringe
back.
"Back to the ship," growled Krin.
Qu'tok grabbed each by a shoulder, ushering them
along. "Will you stop angering him," he said, ignoring
their protest. A light tug on his arm brought Krin's
attention back to Morea.
"Krin, what if the Guardian has escaped. What
then?" she asked.
"It will not escape," answered Krin. He patted
her affectionately on the head. "Do not worry. Now
why don't you run along and join the others. I'll be
along in a moment."
Morea nodded, hiding her doubt, rushing of to
catch up with the rest of the team. Krin turned to
gaze upon the fire one last time.
"M.I.B.," he muttered with a contemptuous grunt,
then slipped off into the darkness.












< br>




Yo,Yo, Yo, folks.

The Story continues...



Part Two

Can I Get a Witness?

South Docks, Manhattan Island, New York, 8:45 AM:

Loading cranes worked steadily about the piers of
Manhattan's shipping docks, lifting enormous crates of
goods bound to markets overseas. Along the piers,
truck delivered supplies, stevedores and longshoremen
working steadily to keep up with the demanding
schedules.
The SS Roanoke currently prepared to get underway
bound for Central and South America, her holds filled
with newly crated machinery parts and other goods for
their neighbors in the lower hemisphere. Her captain
stood on the quarterdeck watching as the final pallets
were lowered into the ship. This would be a good run,
he thought. Drop off this load, pick up fresh fruits
and materials in Brazil, then head home with a quick
stop in Barbados for some well deserved R and R.
The First Mate came up, reporting that the cargo
was secure and they could get underweigh anytime he
desired. The Captain ordered the Officer of the Deck
to have the brow broken down, when he stopped noticing
a black car gliding down the pier, coming to a stop at
the foot of the gangway.
Out stepped a tall slim black man dressed in a
black suit and tie staring up at the ship, looking it
over. From the passengers side a woman stepped out,
dressed the same as the man, holding what appeared to
be some kind of cellular phone to her ear. She said
something then called to her companion, nodding to the
ship. Curious eyes followed the two as they walked up
the steps to the quarterdeck.
"Knock, knock," said the man smiling at the
Captain.
He was not amused. "Something we can do for you?"
the Captain asked them.
"Uh, yeah. I'm uhm, Agent McNabb and this here is
my partner Agent Ketchum. We're from the Trades and
Exports Department."
"The Trades and Exports Department?" The Captain
cut his eyes over to the OOD, scratching his head in
confusion. "I've never heard of any Trades and--,"
"Not many people do," the woman cut in. "We got
word you might have an illigal trade item in one of
your shipments."
"An illegal what!"
"A trade item not authorized for export,"
explained the man. "You know, kind of like giving
Monday Night Football to TBS."
The woman hit him lightly in the side.
"I don't know what you're talking about," replied
the Captain. "I don't have anything illegal on my
ship."
"Oh really now," answered the man. He looked back
at his partner, and she pulled out the cellular phone
again. Tapping something on it's keypad, a beep
sounded as her readout became active.
"Manifest number 694. Destination: Panama City."
She read off to him.
"That ring a bell?" added the man.
"I've got several shipments bound for Panama
City."
"So I guess that means we need to go down and
check'em out?"
The Captain gave them a skeptical eye. He placed
his hands on his hips. "Not until I see some
Identification," he said defiantly.
With a deep sigh, the man reached into his jacket.
He pulled out a pair of wide Ray-Bans and put them on.
The woman did likewise, then he drew a silver colored
cylinder out turning the strange narrow red strip at
the top towards them.
"What is that?" asked the Captain.
"This? Oh this! This is ah, a relay camera.
Yeah, we've got to record this for legal stuff and all
that."
"Just look at the red strip, everyone," instructed
the woman.
"I don't know what this is all about," began the
Captain. "But--,"
FOOSH!
Rubbing his eyes, the Captain blinked while his
vision returned. He shook his head staring at the two
people standing in front of him.
"Well?" questioned the man.
"I'm sorry, what?" he replied.
"You were going to take us down to the hold to
check that strange cargo you brought onboard."
"Oh. Oh yes, that. Come along its right here in
the forward cargo bay."
Exchanging sly looks over the tops of their
shades, the agents followed the captain to the ladder
heading into the ship. Minutes later, they stood at
the access hatch as it was unlocked. The Captain
started to follow them inside, but the woman held up a
hand stopping him.
"We'll need to be alone," she said. "Legal stuff
and all."
"Right, I'll be up on the quarterdeck finishing
underway checks."
"Yeah, but remember we're down here," said the
man. "So don't like uh, heave ho on us. Okay?"
Nodding, the Captain stepped out and shut the
hatch behind him.
After his steps faded off, the woman rounded on
her partner. "Jay . . . Monday Night Football? Give
me a break!" she said.
Agent J shrugged. "C'mon, Elle. It was just a
figure of speech."
"You could have thought of something better. Next
time let me do all the explaining, okay?"
"Hey, it worked didn't it?"
Agent L shook here head, following Jay as he
looked around at the stacks of containers around them.
"It's a wonder we get away with what we do now,"
she said.
Jay smirked but continued his search. "We've been
working together for what, a month?"
"So?"
"Well by now you'd be used to my smooth delivery,
my fast thinking."
"Yeah. McNabb and Ketchum. Very original."
"Like that, eh?" replied Jay, laughing for a
moment. "So are you going to tell me where our friend
is at?"
Elle pulled her scanner out and made a quick sweep
of the space. She stopped, pointing over to a short
stack just ahead and the two agents walked over to it.
Jay smacked his lips eyeing the two boxes.
"Which one?" he asked.
"Top."
Nodding, Jay stared at the box. "Yo, man. You
might as well come clean now. You busted, pal."
No reaction from the box, Jay crossed his arms.
"Hey. Hey I know you hear me! Let's stop this frozen
cockroach bit and make this easy for all of us."
Still there was no response. Jay looked back at
Elle.
"Give him an `A' for hopes," she said arching a
brow.
He shook his head. Spotting a crowbar on the box
next to them, Jay picked it up. "Let's go, let's go!"
He started banging the side. Suddenly, a quick,
Brooklynian voice called out to him.
"Ow! Hey, hey, watch dat thing will'ya!" it said.
Jay stepped back. "Speaking to us now, hmm?"
On the side of the container an eye appeared.
Round with dark pupils, it panned over to him, then
another eye opened next to it.
"Hey, Agent Jay, Agent Elle. What a surprise!
Didn't expect to see you twos down here."
"Ahuh," sounded Elle, not believing a word the
alien said.
"So's what brings you down to see me off on my
trip?"
Jay and Elle laughed trading looks.
"I, uh, hate to burst your bubble, Ozx m'man, but
you ain't going nowhere's," answered Jay.
"What! But, but, but I'm cleared for this. I've
got all the right paperwork here. Zed signed'em
himself!"
"Yes, we saw the authorization certificates. Nice
forgery, except its Z-E-D, not Z-I-D," said Elle.
Ozx let out a loud gasp. "Uh, wha, y-y-you think
I'd go and do some'n like that? Why this is
outrageous! I'm gonna--,"
"Hold up, hold up, hold up," said Jay waving his
hands cutting the alien off. "You might as well keep
that story for NBC. I hear they're look'n for
something to replace `Seinfeld'."
Ozx's mouth hung open, a protest hanging on his
lips. He glanced back and for the between the two,
then sighed. "Damn," he muttered.
Elle and Jay calmly walked over and leaned on
either side of him.
"Ozx. What in the hell were you think about?"
asked Jay. "This is the fourth time we've busted you
trying to go down south?"
"Fourth? Dat many, eh?"
Elle looked at the readout on her scanner. "Yep.
Last time we caught you pretending to be a bench on a
train in Mexico."
"Yeah, and I'd a gotten away with that too if that
fat lady hadn't sat down on my back. Gosh, she must'a
weighed a ton!"
Jay leaned down. "I'll give you credit for
effort," he said. "You ain't pulling anything over on
M.I.B., man. We got everything covered."
A smirk appeared, Ozx glaring up at him.
"Come'on, Agent Jay. Give a guy a break, will'ya?" it
pleaded.
"We can't do that," answered Elle. "You're a
Symbiod. You get loose down in Central America without
proper precautions and God knows what will happen."
"Yeah, look what we had to do to Noriega," added
Jay.
"Okay, bad incident, but it wasn't me that screwed
up!"
"Not a chance," said Elle. "Now what'll it be?
Peaceful and quiet, or kicking and screaming?"
The side of the box creaked, brows forming close
together as the alien pondered it's choices. "Am I
going to get deported?" it finally asked.
"I don't know. Zed's not to happy with you for
playing with his name like that," answered Jay.
"Eeeew, that's a bad sign."
"Look, I'll tell you what. You come quietly and
give us no trouble, and we'll put in a good word for
you."
"You'd do that f'me?"
"Sure. I mean we're not out to get everybody,"
said Elle.
"Just the stupid ones," added Jay.
Ozx finally reached a decision. "Okay, you win.
I'll go quietly."
"Good!" Jay and Elle stepped back. "Now you
going to half'ta shift, Gus."
"Shift? In ta'what?" asked Ozx.
"Something we can carry without drawing
suspicion," replied Elle.
"So like in the words of that famous Co-median,
`Let's Get Small'," said Jay.
"Oh, oh I see some cramps now. Should'a ran when
I had the chance."
Elle snapped her fingers. "Come on, we haven't
got all day."
The sides of the box started quivering, then it
stretched with a creak before slowly compressing down
on itself. The colors shifted from light brown to a
dark black and the two agent recognized what it was the
alien was shifting into.
Jay laughed, walking over to the medium sized
briefcase. "Yo, Ozx. Not bad. Is that real leather?"
he joked. Elle placed a hand to her face, shaking her
head.
"Just carry me out, okay?" replied the briefcase.
"This isn't exactly comfortable."
Jay grabbed the handle and started walking back
towards the hatch.
"You know Jay, sometimes a little professionalism
would be appreciated," complained Elle.
"Nah, that's not me, girl. I like to have just a
little fun on the job."
"Well a little too much fun might get us both
hurt, or worse."
"No chance in that, Elle."
"Meaning?"
Jay shrugged. "We're too good!" he replied
stepping out the hatch.
Elle sighed. "My partner," she muttered.

* * * * *

Covering their tracks, Jay and Elle placed their
charge in the trunk and were soon heading back to
M.I.B. Headquarters. Before they could get halfway
there, the monitor on the dash beeped. Elle switched
it on, and Chief Agent Zed appeared. From the serious
expression on his face something was not right.
"Hey, boss. Mission accomplished," Jay greeted
him.
Zed's eyes cut over to him, then Elle. "J, L, get
back here on the double," was the only thing Zed said.
The screen when blank, leaving the two agents
lost.
"Maybe I should change my greetings," said Jay
after a moment.
Slowly, Elle shook her head. "No. Something bad
happened. Something really bad," she said.
"That a woman's intuition speaking there?"
She smirked, looking over at him. Jay grimaced,
edging slightly to the side.
"I know, I know. Can the jokes," he said.
"Thank you. Now you heard Zed. Let's move this
thing."
"Whoa, whoa, I'm the senior agent here. I give
the orders."
"Yeah, by fifteen minutes. So are you going to
speed up, or should I take over?"
Jay hit the gas and the car shot off down the
highway.

* * * * *

M.I.B. Headquarters, Central Manhattan, 9:18 AM,

M.I.B. Headquarters was unusually busy when Jay
and Elle returned. It looked like the trouble Elle
predicted went way above normal. Humans and Aliens
alike were hunched over monitors, operators working
feverishly at the their consoles. Jay frowned and
looked up at Zed's office situated above everything.
Inside, three agents stood in front of his desk, each
taking notes on pads in their hands as Zed issued
orders.
"Elle," said Jay, motioning for her to follow him.
They walked up the steps to the office.
"Yo, Yo, Zee," said Jay, knocking on the glass as
he entered. "What up, what up?"
The three agents taking Zed's orders looked
sharply over at them, faces held in shock. Elle rolled
her eyes up, dreading the wrath sure to follow.
"That will be all, gentlemen," said Zed. The
agents quickly exited, and Zed locked a withering gaze
on Jay.
"First off, Agent J, it's not 'Yo, Yo Zee', it's
Zed. Clear?"
Jay swallowed the sudden fear lump in his throat.
"Yeah, I gotcha', Zed."
"Good." Zed's eyes cut briefly over to Elle, then
he looked down at a file on his desk. "Both of you sit
down."
As Jay took a seat, he glanced up at the series of
small monitors just behind Zed's desk. Each one was
labeled with a major city; the one marked Tokyo covered
with static.
"Uhm, Zed. Somebody forget to pay the cable bill
in Japan?"
"Jay, will you shut up!" snapped Elle.
Zed slowly looked up. Cutting a sideways glance
to the monitor, he sat back. "Ironically, Agent J,
that is the reason why you two are here."
"It is?"
Zed continued. "A couple of hours ago, M.I.B.
Tokyo was attacked."
That made Jay and Elle sit up straight in their
chairs. The news stunned them. An attack on M.I.B.?
"Got an ID on who did it?" asked Jay.
"Yes, and there's more," replied Zed. He swiveled
his chair around to the main screen behind him.
Punching a button on the armrest of his chair, it came
to life displaying an exterior view of Earth.
"Before the attack, we tracked a ship entering
Earth atmosphere. From what the sensors could tell, it
appeared to be in trouble."
A streak flashed across the sky, flames arcing
back as the glowing hull of a small round craft headed
towards the ground.
"So is that who attacked M.I.B. Tokyo?" asked
Elle.
"No, I believe that honor will go to our next
visitor."
Jay and Elle's mouths slowly sagged open as
another, larger ship appeared. The front end was long
culminating from a bulbous prow tapering back to a disk
shaped main hull, two vertical fins extending up from
either side of the center structure. It made a slow
turn to adjust it's trajectory, and abruptly faded out
of view.
"Wow, who's the owner of that Cadillac?" said Jay.
Zed turned back around. "The owner is one
Inentimus Krin. A pirate wanted in several parts of
the galaxy for everything from Kidnapping, to
Assassination."
"A nasty one," said Elle.
"Quite. Incidentally, M.I.B.'s on other planets
have had brushes with him. They did not turn out very
well."
"So it's M.I.B. zero, Krin one?" Jay said.
"More than one, but now he's really screwed up."
Zed leaned forward, an angered gleam in his eyes.
"He's come to my planet and killed my agents in my
backyard, and that I will not stand for."
"We're going after him," Elle guessed.
"You damn right we going after him!" declared Jay.
"We heading up the posse to go bust this guys ass."
"Not yet, J," Zed said. "I'm sending you and
Agent L to assist what agents are left in Tokyo. Your
main tasking is to find out what it was that Krin is
after in that first ship."
"Hmm. It must be something important for him to
get up nerve and attack an M.I.B. station," said Elle.
"Yeah, and if he's willing to do that, who knows
how far he'll go to get it," finished Jay.
"Precisely," said Zed.
Jay thought a moment, glancing back at the Tokyo
screen. "There's only one small problem with all
this," he said.
"What's that?"
"I don't speak Japanese. I'mean, Elle you speak
any of that stuff?"
"No, never had the opportunity," she answered.
"Yeah, best I can say is Hi."
Zed's eyes narrowed. "That's Hai, Agent J," he
corrected him.
"Hello," replied Jay.
The room got deathly quiet, then Jay started
laughing; Elle fighting hard to suppress her giggles.
"Heh, heh, I'm sorry, boss. Just trying to
lighten up the mood a little bit," Jay managed to say.
Zed's glower stayed firmly in place.
"Yeah, but ah, heh, heh, I can see you ain't
laughing, uh . . . yeah, uhm . . . heh, uh, right, not
funny . . . hmm, not a snicker, not a chuckle . . .
woo, yeah, no humor."
Zed arched a brow. "Thanks for reminding me,
Agent J."
Reaching into one of his desk drawers, Zed placed
a silver, thermos sized cylinder on his desk. It
reminded both Agents of their Nuralizers, and they
traded worried looks. A narrow panel snapped open at
the top exposing a dim blue glow.
"I want you both to look at the window," he
instructed them.
"Zed, man. We cool, right? I'mean it was just a
joke, okay?"
"Yeah, Jay was only kidding! There's no reason to
zap us," Elle said.
"I'm not going to zap you," Zed replied. "Just
look into the light."
"Can we put our shades on first?" asked Jay. Zed
stabbed an angry finger at the light.
Jay and Elle gave each other one last look.
"Well, it was nice working with you," Jay said to
her.
"Yep, same, same. I guess it's back to cadavers,"
replied Elle.
Zed was starting to get impatient. "Agents. The
light," he said again firmly.
They swallowed, looking at the cylinder. There
was no flash, instead the glow intensified, then a
strong wave of dizziness and nausea hit them. When it
started to subside, Jay and Elle found themselves
slumped down in their seats.
"Oh, man!" exclaimed Jay. He placed a hand to the
side of his head, slowly pulling himself back up in the
chair. Elle let out a moan, shaking her head.
"What did you do to us?" she asked Zed.
"Quick training lesson," he replied, placing the
cylinder back into his desk. Zed tossed each of them a
book. "Now you can speak and understand Japanese,
however; read those books while you're flying to
Japan."
"Flying?" gasped Elle.
"Yes. I'd shoot you through the tube, but Krin
managed to knockout the Pacific hub. You'll have to
get there by jet."
"Flying?" Elle gasped again.
"Don't tell me you're afraid of flying, girl,"
said Jay.
"Ah, well . . . yes," she reluctantly admitted to
them.
"Don't worry, Agent L. It's a quick four hour
trip. You won't even notice."
"Four hours? I thought it took all day non-stop?"
said Jay.
"Not with M.I.B. jets. It would be faster, but we
don't want every earthquake sensor in the world to go
off and track your flight."
"So do we get lunch?"
Zed closed the file on his desk sharply handing it
to Jay. "This is a dossier on Krin and what available
activities we have on file. Sorry, there's no pictures
of him or any of his people. You'll have to root him
out. When you get to Japan, Agent T will be waiting
for you."
"Tee?"
"And no Golf jokes either, Agent J. T is
currently in charge of the remainder of M.I.B. Tokyo,
so give him all the support you can. Understood?"
"Oh yeah, you got it, no problem from me, boss."
"Good. Now both of you get moving, there's a car
waiting to take you to our plane."
Jay and Elle stood up. Before they could depart,
Zed called to them.
"Remember, you're both expendable," he said.
"OOOkay," replied Jay after a moment. "I guess
this is where we say, `Ko-nnei-chi Wa'?"
Zed smirked. "Get out," he said.
Elle jerked Jay out the door.
Zed pondered the events so far, hoping that Jay
and Elle could cover the case and bring Krin and his
band in before things really got out of hand. Looking
back to the fuzzy monitor of Tokyo again, he stood up
and went over to the front, watching as his two agents
headed for the exit; Elle giving Jay an ear full of her
mind.
Well, they are the best of the bunch, thought Zed.
A brief chuckle escaped from him.
"Konnichi Wa," he said laughing at the thought.

* * * * *

The Pirate ship `D'stka', somewhere near Mt. Fuji, 04:00 AM

The bowels of Krin's ship prevented the long
warbled moans of his current prisoner from escaping
into the early morning countryside, the unrelenting
interrogation/torture proving futile. Krin and the
rest of his pirates stood around a wide flat metal
table watching as the fluctuating shape encased in a
tight blue bubble of energy writhing in horrid agony.
Ribbons of light played through the imprisoning shell
drawing a fresh series of moans from the prisoner.
Finally, Krin ordered a stop.
He waited until the bubble settled, then leaned
close to the head-like portion of the prisoner,
grinning his evil grin.
"Now then, Guardian. I trust our question will
finally be answered, hmm?" he said.
The Guardian's translucent-yellow body quivered,
the multi-layered limbs limp at its sides. From
several gapping wounds a thick white fluid oozed, it's
life juices slowly draining away. The bubbled opening
of its mouth made a sound, then the head turned towards
him.
"Froym . . . mye you wiyll gain . . . noything,
Inentymouse Kryn," rasped the Guardian.
Krin drew back with a scowl. Motioning to Qu'tok,
his henchman threw a lever forward on the panel next to
them, sending the energy flowing across the Guardian
once again. It's moan carried through the space before
Krin ordered another stop.
"Now, you sorry mound of jellatious feces, tell me
where you hid the Regent. Tell me, or the creators
will, you'll suffer worse than before!"
The Guardian writhed, but remained silent.
Krin growled. He moved up face to pseudo-face
with his prisoner, eyes lit with a dark fury. "Tell
me, you slug! Tell me where you hid the Regent!"
A trickle of white fluid ran from the corner of
the Guardian's mouth, bubbles frothing up as it fought
to speak. Krin turned an ear to him.
"Speak. Where is the Regent and I'll make your
death quick and painless."
A gurgle sounded, then the Guardian managed to
form it's words.
"The Regent . . . is . . ."
"Yes, the Regent is?"
"Is . . . well prytected, you leeyching drung
layiden scumwoyrm!"
Krin shot back, teeth grit tight. He glared at
the Guardian and Qu'tok feared what was going to happen
next.
"Krin," he said trying to head off the anger, but
it was to no avail.
Abruptly, Krin forced Qu'tok aside. He grabbed
the lever and leered menacingly at the Guardian on the
table.
"Wrong answer, fool!" he growled, throwing the
lever all the way up.
"Krin, no!" exclaimed Qu'tok.
Too late came the warning. Thick ribbons of
energy washed over the imprisoning bubble, haggard
moans drowned out beneath the hiss of sizzling ozone
and matter. In seconds the deed was done, nothing left
but a fluid puddle of misting white liquid simmering at
the bottom of the bubble. Krin turned off the energy
and stared down at the table.
"Great, just great," said Qu'tok. "You've just
killed our only lead, Krin. What are we going to do
now?"
Slowly, the pirate turned his head brows set
close, giving his second a hard stare. Qu'tok
nervously pressed his lips together, awaiting Krin's
fury, but he turned away.
"Alid, Koo. Clean up this mess," ordered Krin
moving off to the forward portion of the space.
Cheerfully, Koo clasped his hands together. "Hey,
Alid. It's time for breakfast," he said reaching for
the table.
Meanwhile, the rest of the pirates followed Krin
over to a curved console at the center of the space.
Sitting down in his command chair, Krin propped his
feet up and began mulling around thoughts in his mind.
"It is a good question," said Binimi inching up
next to him. "What are we going to do?"
Krin looked up, rubbing the slowly graying skin
concealing his features. He paused then gazed at a
large flat monitor on the bulkhead in front of them.
"D'skta," he called out.
[Yes, o'wise and brilliant leader,] answered the
ships main computer.
Krin ignored it's barb. "Display an overlay of the
surrounding dwelling," he ordered.
[You mean the city?]
"Do it, D'skta. I'm in no mood for your antics."
The screen lit up displaying an overhead view of
Tokyo and it's surrounding suburbs. Krin shifted,
setting his gaze on the outlying area of Nerima.
"Binimi, where was it that you and Teq captured
the Guardian?"
Binimi reached down to the console, guiding a red
cursor over the display. "Here, in this area," she
replied.
Krin studied the cluster of buildings for a
moment. "The Guardian must have hid the Regent
somewhere there," he said.
"I don't think so, Krin," said Teq. "We were too
close for the Guardian to have time to do that without
us seeing."
"Then it has to be back along it's track,"
surmised Krin.
Binimi arched a brow. "That is more likely the
case," she said. "When we caught up, the Guardian was
exiting one of the enclaves."
"Exiting?" questioned Krin.
She nodded. "And since the Incubus chamber was
empty, I would think it hid the Regent somewhere along
the way up to that point."
"Yes," said Krin staring back up at the display.
"Yes!"
"But there is a problem," added Binimi. "One of
those human females was there, and she saw me."
"What!" shouted Krin. "What was she doing there,
and why did you not kill her?"
"She seemed no threat, Krin. Kind of a scrawny
thing, would make a good snack. However, she was
calling after the Guardian."
"We didn't expect to run into her again, Krin,"
said Teq. "Why waste the effort?"
"But now we must return, and this female might
have alerted the authorities," answered Krin. He
paused to review what Binimi had just said. "Calling
to the Guardian?"
"Yes," answered Binimi.
"Hmm. The Guardian was not stupid. If it hid the
Regent, then it had to have told somebody where it was.
This female could be our best lead. Where is this
dwelling."
Binimi scrolled the cursor over to a building on
the corner street. "It had a name, but I can't
pronounce it."
"Write it down."
She took up a near-by electronic pad, drawing as
best she could what the sign had on it. Krin read the
scribbling, lips forming letters and phrases.
"Uuuuuuu-Cchhhi-aaannnnsss?" he read.
"Told you it was hard," said Binimi. "Now if my
understanding of this worlds time partitions is
correct, this dwelling will not be open until a time
period called Ten o'clock."
"Translate that, Binimi."
"A very long wait."
Krin sat back. Behind them, Alid and Koo joined
the group fresh from their feast.
"You know, Krin. When you finally retire, you
should pursue a cooking career," commented Alid.
"Excellent job on the Flamb'' Oui'Guardian."
"Perked just right," said Koo.
Krin just growled, ignoring them. Morea came up
on the other side giving him a light nudge.
"Are we going back out?" she asked.
"I don't advise it," said Qu'tok. "Blindly
ransacking this Ucchan's might scare off the earth
female."
"No," answered Krin. "We'll wait until this Ten
o'clock occurs, then pay a visit on her."
"And if she does not know, or will not co-
operate?"
A smile came to Krin, evil notions dancing in his
mind.
"Then . . . then we tear this `city' apart," he
finished.

* * * * *

Tendo Dojo, Nerima, 07:45 AM,

Akane sat on the patio watching the rays of the
morning sun slowly beam across the sky, announcing the
start of a new day. She shuddered pulling her robe
tight, then gazed down at the small black piglet asleep
next to her. P-chan's snore made her smile and she
looked back out across the back yard.
I should be asleep, she thought solemnly. But I
can't help but think about that poor old woman I left
at the mercies of those strangers last night. Akane
could still picture the threatening stare from that
woman as she walked by, a look that sent fear through
her. It wasn't normally like her to do that,
especially if someone needed help. It was as if her
body willed itself away, the strong desire to protect
herself from harm overriding everything else.
From the stairs, light steps sounded. Kasumi
Tendo, eldest daughter of the Tendo sisters, walked
down stretching her arms as she yawned. She noticed
the cool draft flowing through the Dojo, peering in
through the living room doors.
"Akane?" she called.
"Good morning, Kasumi," answered Akane, gaze
remaining fixed outside.
Kasumi frowned slightly, walking over. "Shouldn't
you be a sleep after coming in so late from work?" she
asked.
Akane tilted her head to one side, pondering for a
moment. "You know, I should be, but for some strange
reason I don't really feel a need for sleep."
That certainly sounded strange to Kasumi. She
reached over placing a palm to her sisters forehead.
"You don't feel warm," she said.
"I don't feel sick either," replied Akane.
"Although I could use a little water."
"I'll get you some," replied Kasumi standing up.
As Kasumi headed to the kitchen, Akane found her
mind straying once more. Her eyes seemed to shift
slowly from side to side, head heavy. Maybe the
missing hours were starting to catch up, she thought.
Slowly, her mouth sagged open as a lost expression came
to her face. She drew in a slight breath, then all of
a sudden let out a long, sorrowful moan that carried
through the Dojo.
Akane started surprised by the sound, then heard
the lower bedroom door slide open. Heavy steps
sounded, Ranma Saotome stepping into the living room
looking around.
"What the hell was that!" he exclaimed.
P-chan's timid squeal called, Akane noting the
wide look of fear on her piglet's face.
"Oh, P-chan, I'm so sorry I woke you up," she
apologized. When she reached down to pick him up, P-
chan backed away quivering in terror.
"Was that you, Akane?" asked Ranma coming over to
the patio door. Before she could answer, Kasumi
returned with a glass of water, eyes darting about the
room.
"I heard a noise," she said, handing the glass to
Akane.
"It was Akane," said Ranma.
Kasumi paused. She glanced down at Akane.
"Yep, I think is was me," she said. Akane placed
the glass to her lips, then began drinking down the
glass of water. Ranma and Kasumi both watched in mild
surprise as she slugged it down with nary a pause.
"Ah," sounded Akane smacking her lips as she
handed the glass back to Kasumi. "Another one,
please?"
Kasumi regarded her sister with a suspicious look,
moving back towards the kitchen. Through the living
room doors, Nabiki Tendo entered stretching and yawning
as she made her way to the nearest futon.
"So, was that the new breakfast gong, or did we
buy a cow?" she said flopping down.
"Neither. It was Akane," answered Ranma.
Nabiki paused, blinking her eyes at her younger
sister. "You're kidding?"
"Nope. Akane found the deepest bowels of her
lungs and pulled out the yawn from nine hells."
Sharp tacks sounded, Ranma hopping madly around
dodging the sudden appearance of a number three mallet
attempting to crush his toes.
"I did not yawn from hell, Ranma Saotome!" scowled
Akane.
"Well I can see it's nothing serious," said Nabiki
giggling at the couple.
Kasumi returned handing Akane another glass of
water. "Oh, you're awake," she said to Nabiki.
"Yep. Its been so peaceful around here the past
few mornings since Father, Mister Saotome, and that
leach Happosai went off on one of their training
expeditions."
Ranma sat on the floor rubbing the pain from his
foot. "Don't you mean long distance raid?" he
commented amidst his grunts and sighs.
"Call it what you will. Now little sister here
has found a new way to shake up the household."
"It was a fluke!" cried Akane. "It just . . .
came out."
"Don't listen to her," said Kasumi. She knelt,
staring deep into Akane's face. "Are you sure you're
alright?"
Akane took a sip, nodding her head. "I don't feel
one hundred percent, but I'm not sick."
"Hmm. Maybe after a good breakfast that small
percent will go away."
"Now there's a good idea," said Ranma.
Kasumi patted Akane's cheek, rising up to start
breakfast. Akane drank the last of the water in her
glass and set it down. She turned back to the open
patio door, then paused.
"Ranma," she called.
Ranma arched a brow, noting the change in her
voice.
"Yes?"
She looked over her shoulder, a gentile smile on
her face. Akane patted the spot next to her, motioning
him to join her. Nabiki re-adjusted herself on the
futon expecting a show.
"You want me to come over there?" questioned
Ranma. She nodded again. This did not feel right at
all to Ranma, and he scratched his head. "You're not
planning to hit me are you, Akane?" he asked.
"Ranma, come here."
A quick glance to the grinning Nabiki, Ranma went
over and cautiously sat down. They were quiet for a
moment, both of them stealing short looks at the other,
then Akane scooted close. She laid her head on his
shoulder, wrapped her arms around his, and leaned
against Ranma. Total surprise could be felt through
the room, Nabiki, Ranma, and even poor P-chan gapping
in shock.
"A-A-Akane, what do you want?" asked a nervous
Ranma.
The Tendo girl nuzzled her head into a comfortable
position, smiling as she closed her eyes. "Warmth,"
she replied.
"W-w-warmth?" stammered Ranma. "Uh, let me . . .
let me get you a blanket then."
Akane sighed deeply. "I don't want a blanket. I
want you."
Nabiki did a double take.
"Me? That's it, Doctor Tofu is definitely on his
way over here right-EEEEYYYOOOOOWWWW!"
Ranma sprang from the floor, P-chan latched
tightly to his rear chomping down with all his might.
"P-CHAN!" exclaimed Akane. She snatched the
piglet from off Ranma, sending more waves of pain
through him. Placing him on the floor, she turned P-
chan around. "You stop that right now," Akane scolded
her pet.
Ranma froze in mid-dance eyes locked wide on
Akane. Nabiki also sat in disbelief, reclining to one
side resting her head on her hand. P-chan gazed sadly
up at Akane. Usually this would gain immediate
sympathy, but today Akane's heart was somewhere else.
"Ranma and I want to be together today, so please
behave yourself."
That hurt. The corner of P-chan's lower lip
quivered, a low squeal sounding. He turned away,
pausing briefly to stare angrily at Ranma, then slowly
trundled off towards the stairs. The piglet stopped,
glanced back over at Akane one last time, then exited
the room.
"I'm sorry about that, Ranma," Akane said.
From his current position, Ranma fell back,
shocked by her apology. After the words registered, he
sat up.
"What, no `Ranma stop picking on P-chan'? No
`You're always trying to hurt him' speech? Akane what
has gotten into you!" he said.
The glowing smile returned to Akane's face, her
hand patting the spot next to her beckoning him over.
Ranma started to feel afraid. He cast a worried eye
over to Nabiki in search for help.
"Don't look at me, and don't you pass this
opportunity up," she said.
"Opportunity?" Ranma look at Akane again.
"What's going on here?"
"Nothing, Ranma," answered Akane. "I thought,
maybe you would want to be with me today." Akane's
head lowered, a sad pout forming. She tapped the tips
of her index fingers nervously together. "I mean . . .
aren't you my Guardian?"
"Now that's original," said Nabiki. "I like that
approach. Going to have to use that on Tatewaki."
Ranma could only stare speechless at Akane. Her
eyes cut up to him, the innocence in them tearing away
every resolve that he had.
"Why sure, Akane," said Ranma, walking over to
her. "I'll always be here to protect you. You know
that."
"Good," muttered Akane. "Because I don't even
know why I said that in the first place."
A giggle escaped from Nabiki, then Kasumi stuck
here head into the room.
"Breakfast will be ready in a moment," she
announced. "Ranma, you're not cleaned up yet? I
thought you were opening up Ucchan's today."
Ranma grimaced. He took a look up at the clock
and yelped rushing for the bathroom.
"Ranma!" called Akane.
He stopped and they stared at each other like two
forlorned lovers.
"Ah, look I've got to go," Ranma finally said.
"But what about--,"
"I'll see if Ukyo can do without me after the noon
rush. We'll talk then, okay?"
Reluctantly, Akane agreed not wanting Ranma to get
fired from his job. He left, leaving the two women
alone.
Nabiki sat up and began to clap her hands.
"Nicely done, little sister," she said.
"What? I didn't do anything," replied Akane.
"Oh contraire. That show of emotion has tweaked
Ranma's interest. I don't know what made you admit to
your feelings, but this was one big step in the right
direction."
"I'm not admitting anything, Nabiki. Ranma's my .
. . Guardian, and I must be with him."
Nabiki stood up, shaking her head as she walked
over. "Akane, I don't know what you mean, and I don't
know what's come over you, but don't loose it, okay?"
Akane rolled her eyes. "I don't have anything,
Nabiki," she said.
"So you say. Come on, let's go set the table
unless there's something else you'd like to do."
"No." Akane picked up her glass. "But I could
use another glass of water," she finished holding it
up.
Nabiki smirked, not used to serving others.
"Okay. Just this once," she said taking the glass.
She chuckled as she went to the kitchen.
"Guardian . . . how silly."

* * * * *

M.I.B. Airfield, Norita Intl, 08:15,

The whine of 747's taxiing their way across the
tarmac of Norita International Airport marked the start
of another day at one of the worlds most busiest
airports. Departures and take-off's vied for position
along the invisible highways in the sky, bring in
commerce and carrying off vacationers as was the norm
for this time of year.
Off in a specially penned section of the airport,
a lone black car sat awaiting one very important flight
to arrive. It's driver stood with hands folded behind
him staring down the near-by runway watch a small Lear
jet glide in for landing.
Agent T ignored the chill, actually welcoming its
bite after so many hours of lost sleep trying to
recover what was left of M.I.B. Tokyo. Dressed in the
standard issue uniform, the black raincoat he wore
flapped in the wind reminding those who saw him of a
Jesuit priest awaiting his congregation to appear. T's
well groomed dark brown hair made him appear younger
than he really was, but he could recall years of
extensive service in the field, some good, some bad,
never once regretting any of it, or the long past life
and relations he left behind. He could remember his
old mentor, the Chief Supervisor of M.I.B. Tokyo tell
him that it was a lonely life, and that much was true.
Never though did he think he'd ever feel the pain of
loosing a friend again.
That was not until yesterday, when he found the
shattered remains of the only person he considered
family now lying dead in the control room.
The shriek from the engines of the jet taxiing to
a stop broke him from his thoughts. The fully
automated plane shut down and a door slid open, folding
stairway extending down to the ground. Someone inside
let out a moan, then a tall black man staggered to the
opening. He walked down the steps with difficulty,
then a woman appeared briefly leaning against the side
before joining him on the tarmac. T managed a thin
smile, walking over to great them.
On the bottom step, Agent J sat holding his head
trying to recover from the very turbulent ride he and
his partner had just endured. A glance up found Agent
L leaning against the railing muttering a low prayer.
"I am going to get Zed's ass for that little
trick!" he exclaimed.
Jay noticed T's approach and tapped Elle on the
leg. Together they stood up, trying to maintain some
semblance that they had all of their faculties in
order. T stopped and extended a hand.
"I am Agent T, current leading Agent for M.I.B.
Tokyo."
Jay shook his hand. "Yeah, I'm Agent J, and this
is m'partner Agent L," answered Jay.
"You can call me Elle," said Elle shaking his
hand.
"Well, I see you have experienced a safe flight,"
said T.
"Quite interesting ride we got there. It's a good
thing we didn't get lunch."
"Ah, then come. We'll get breakfast, then start
work tracking down Inentimus Krin and his gang."
Elle blanched, the thought of food upsetting to
say the least. "Uh, I think I'll pass on that, T," she
said.
"Ditto," said Jay.
T nodded conceding to their wishes. He lead them
to the car, a mid-sized Honda Accord.
"Yo, Elle. Looks like you're backseat driving,"
said Jay. "You know how it is with us black folk.
Big, tall and beautiful."
Elle rolled her eyes, climbing into the back of
the car. T got in and Jay paused staring at him for a
moment.
"Yo, man. This mean I got'a drive?" he asked.
Elle opened her window. "No, Jay. They drive on
the right side of the car here in Japan. You didn't
read any of the manual, did you?"
"Oh, yeah, right! Dyaa, that part. Pwshaw,
totally forgot about it!"
Yeah right, muttered Elle as he came around the
other side. Jay got in, and soon they were on the road
heading back to Tokyo.
"So, what's the current situation, T?" Elle asked.
"Not very good. Most of our agents are either
dead or injured. There are only three active personnel
left. One tech, one medical staff, and me."
"So you the only working field agent," said Jay.
"Yes. I had been on a call to one of our
transient visitors when the attack occurred. By the
time I returned, it was all over."
"They did a number on the station, eh?"
"Krin hit the most immediate areas, Computer
section, Command Center. The fire did the rest, but we
are fortunate that it was contained before irreparable
damage could be done."
"How long before regular communications with
Headquarters can be reestablished?" asked Elle.
T shook his head. "Hard to say. Been working
since the attack to salvage what we got, and sanitize
the witnesses before we were discovered."
It looked like this would be harder than they
thought, Jay pondering the tough job ahead. With only
three Agents active, and most of their resources down,
it wasn't very promising an outcome.
"Anybody get a look at our man Krin?" he asked.
"A few fuzzy pictures of the attackers, but
nothing to mark him significantly."
Jay thought, then looked back to Elle. "Any
ideas, girlfriend?"
"Hmm. I think we should concentrate on figuring
out what it is Krin is after," she replied.
"It is apparent they took human forms, so they had
to have struck somewhere else first," said T.
"Yeah. Too soon for the hot sheets," said Jay.
"What about police reports?"
"We still have some terminals up in local mode.
We could try and access the police databases from
them."
"It's a plan," said Jay, clasping his hands
together. "Inentimus Krin, you just made the biggest
mistake of your life."
"If we can find him, Jay," said Elle.
"Oh we'll find him. You can bet big money, M.I.B.
is going to get some payback."
"That and much more," said T, eyes narrowing.
"Much more."

* * * * *

M.I.B. Tokyo was a mess when the trio finally
arrived. Jay and Elle stood gazing around at the
shambles that used to be the command center in total
disbelief. Not much had been accomplished clearing
away the debris scattered about the room. Carefully, T
led them further in.
"As you can see from all the blast marks and flame
damage, Krin wasted no time neutralizing our best means
of coordination," he said.
Elle stood looking up at what was left of the
directors office. She shook her head, turning around.
"I don't know how we're going to manage tracking
him down," she said.
Jay, examining a piece of glass in his hands, had
to agree. "Krin ain't no joke. But I'm not about to
let him run free in this city. Not after all this."
A shuffle from behind the consoles along the far
wall made the two agents look over. Something shifted,
a brown colored appendage briefly snaking over the top
to reach into a tool box, disappearing back behind the
console.
"Who is that?" asked Elle.
T walked over, peering over the side.
"[Yokloyeet]."
"[Okkli Gropvektc]," came a reply.
Up rose a short, brown skinned alien, what
uninjured tentacles it had left handling tools and
other equipment in their grip. It's three red colored
eyes at he center of its body reflected on the two,
then a thin mouth opened.
"[Kowqq]," it said.
"Ah-uh," answered Jay.
"He said `Greetings'," T translated for them.
"And `he' is?" said Elle.
"This is Evsik from the Gamora Quadrant, but he
likes to be called `Ringo'."
Jay laughed. "Ringo, huh? Heh, heh, heh, Fab
Four fan, eh?"
Ringo looked up at T. "[Sgreevdcoo]?" he said to
him.
T smiled. "[Lilieekiou]," he replied.
The alien looked back at Jay, then grunted
uttering a laugh of its own.
"Hey don't be playing `He don't Understand' on me
now, T."
"It is nothing, Jay," replied T, but Jay thought
he saw a glint of mischief in his eyes.
Elle went over to the consoles and glanced over
the controls. "T, which one of these units can we use
to start our search?"
T asked Ringo if things were ready. The alien
slipped back down behind the console, and one of the
panels next to Elle lit up. She sat down, Jay and T
peering over her shoulders as she began to call up the
interface.
"Okay, where to start, where to start," Elle said
reading over the display.
"Zed said that Krin and that ship arrived sometime
around nineish," Jay pointed out to her. "Giving time
for them to get their stuff together, let's say we
start from there on."
Elle called up the records for the preceding
night. "Hmm. A few reports on strange lights in the
sky. Another here about rumblings around the Fuji
area."
"What about that?" asked Jay.
"Nothing much. It's flagged as volcanic
activity."
"Common occurrences here," added T.
Scanning further on, Elle suddenly stopped on a
report that caught her eye. "What's this?" she said
displaying the contents. The report described a
complaint from a local woman in the Nerima district who
claimed she was attacked by a person resembling
herself.
"Somebody had just a dab to much to drink,"
commented Jay.
"The claim is from an eighty-five year old woman,
Jay," said Elle. "More like senility."
"I don't think even being senile would produce
this kind of reaction, Elle," said T.
"Okay, let's tag that one for future reference and
see what else we got," said Jay.
Elle pulled the report aside and continued paging
through the reports. It did not take long to come
across the next suspicious report.
"Looks like a mugging report," said Jay.
"It's not the mugging I'm interested in. It's the
victim," replied Elle.
"What about it?"
"The victim is an old woman, Jay."
Jay took another look at the report. Sure enough
it was an old woman who fit the description of the
woman in the report they had set aside.
"Wait a minute. How close are these two
locations?" he asked.
"By the addresses, not very far," said T. "A good
twenty, thirty minute walk even for an elderly person."
Elle pulled out her field scanner. Calling up a
map of Tokyo and the surrounding suburbs, she located
the area they were looking for.
"Nerima," she said to them. "Jay, that's our hot
spot."
"Think so?"
"Yeah, look here." Elle enlarged the picture on
her screen. "Now I plugged in the estimated impact
point from the report Zed gave us. The first ship
landed somewhere's close by Nerima. Then the report of
a doppelganger, and now this report of a mugging of an
old woman."
"Could be, girl. Could be. Does make sense,"
said Jay. He looked at the console again. "Yo, T.
Did you guys send Agents out to check on this landing
spot?"
"I was out, but Ringo would know."
T directed the question to the alien. A stream of
gibberish followed, Jay trying to guess what the two
were saying, to no avail. T rubbed his chin deep in
thought before answering.
"He says they sent out two agents, but there has
been no report from them."
"That's not a good sign," said Elle.
"No it ain't."
"Then I suggest we move fast," continued T. "From
what I can see, our best starting point now is to
question the person making the mugging report."
"Yeah. Who is that anyway?" asked Jay.
Elle scrolled up the report. "A woman by the name
of Akane Tendo. Says she's a waitress at a restaurant
called `Uuchans'."
"I know that place," said T. "Excellent food."
Jay patted his stomach. "Good, since we missed
breakfast anyway, and I feel my appetite returning,
let's go pay a visit to `Ucchans' and take in a little
lunch."

* * * * *

Tsubasa Kurenai filled another order for the
customers seated at the grill inside Ucchan's. On the
floor, Ranma worked taking orders and clearing tables
as the beginning of the lunch hour rush started to
trickle in. Back in the office, Ukyo Kuonji took the
moment to update the books, make out the schedule and
other things a manager needed to do.
Another order from Ranma came in, Tsubasa reading
the slip.
"And she really called the police, Kurenai?" Ranma
asked.
"Yep," replied Tsubasa, ladling on more batter.
"Ukyo got the call late last night. The police were
here till close to midnight."
Ranma pondered the information. "Hmm, that could
explain the weird way she was acting this morning," he
said. "Did the police find anything?"
"From what I can tell, no."
"Akane could be upset about that." Ranma slapped
the order pad against his hand. "Damn, why didn't she
call me. I would have been here to help in no time."
"Maybe she did not want to disturb you?"
"I don't know what's been eating her lately.
Hell, this morning she was up staring out the patio
door like some lost zombie."
"Hmm. Maybe she's got the flu."
"She said she's alright, but I don't know."
Tsubasa flip the okonomiyaki onto a plate, placing
them on the counter. Ranma took them to their
customers, checking on the rest of the patrons in the
restaurant. The front doors opened, Tsubasa looking up
to see who it was. He started slightly then called to
Ranma.
At the door way stood Akane, a slightly lost
expression on her face. She blinked, then cut her eyes
from side to side stopping on Ranma. Out of the
ordinary wasn't the word Ranma was thinking as Akane
made her way over to him. She stood looking up at him,
eyes full of sorrow.
"Akane?" said Ranma.
"You didn't call me, Guardian," replied Akane.
There was that Guardian stuff again and Ranma
turned his head to one side regarding her strangely.
He spotted Ukyo and Tsubasa watching the couple close;
Ukyo giving him a shrug.
Shaking his head lightly, Ranma guided Akane over
to an open stool and sat her down.
"Akane, what are you doing here?"
Akane drew in a sigh. She reached out gabbing
hold of his arm hugging it tight. "I, I was alone."
"At home? Where did Nabiki and Kasumi go?"
"Not them," replied Akane shaking her head. "No
Guardian . . . you."
Ukyo and Tsubasa traded confused looks.
Cautiously, Ukyo made her way down to that end of the
counter.
"Akane," she called. The girl looked back at her.
"You want something to eat maybe?"
"Water," answered Akane. "A large glass of water
would be fine."
Ukyo smirked slightly, but went to get the drink.
A call from one of the customers caught Ranma's
attention. He told them he'd be right there, pulling
his arm from Akane.
"What's wrong?" questioned Akane, acting as if
he'd just slapped her.
"Well for starters I am working," he replied.
"And if you can remember, you have to work this evening
to."
"But I want to . . . I need to be with you,
Ranma."
Ranma's jaw sagged open. The customer called
again and he came out of his shock. "Look, I've got to
get back to work. Let me finish taking these orders
and well talk, okay?"
Reluctantly, Akane nodded, Ranma returning to
work. Ukyo returned with the glass of water setting it
down on the counter. Akane seemed not to notice, eyes
following Ranma around the room.
"Akane," called Ukyo, gaining no response. She
watched her for a moment longer then called again.
This time Akane started, turning around to the counter.
"Your water," said Ukyo.
Cheerfully, Akane picked up the glass. Just like
that morning she drained it without pause, smacking her
lips as she set the glass back down.
"Akane, what is wrong with you?" asked Ukyo
leaning on the counter.
"Nothing, Ukyo. I'm my usual cheerful self."
"I'm not buying that, Akane. You're acting
strange, and the way you've been staring at Ranma only
confirms my suspicions."
"Isn't he wonderful," said Akane. She looked over
at him, Ranma stiffening slowly turning around. He
shuddered quickly diving back into his work.
"He's my Guardian," said Akane brightly.
"Ahuh . . . and?" replied Ukyo.
Akane leaned closer. "He's not going to let
anything bad happen to me," she said.
Time paused for a moment, Ukyo thinking about the
strange comment from her friend. "Is that so?" she
finally said. "Akane, I think you need to take the day
off, go home and let Doc Tofu give you a check-up."
Angrily, Akane sat back. She planted her fist on
her hips and let out a huff. "Why does everyone think
I'm sick?" she said. "I am no different from yesterday
than today!"
"Now this is the Akane I know," said Ukyo. "But
I'm not buying it. Why do you keep calling Ranma your
`Guardian'?"
Akane frowned. "You know, I don't know," she
replied. Her features softened again. "But he is."
"See, that's what I'm talking about. You need to
go home. I'll cover your shift tonight."
"But I'm fine Ukyo!"
"No you're not, and you need to go home!"
Akane crossed her arms, looking away. "Well you
can't tell me what to do," she said.
"As a friend, no. As your Employer, yes. I don't
want you sick on me, and I don't want what's ailing you
to be spread to the rest of us. You need to go home."
"Ukyo," pleaded Akane, buy Ukyo was having none of
it.
"Home," she said sternly.
Akane sagged, pouting like a young school girl.
She peeked up, hoping Ukyo would change her mind, but
the only reaction she received was a sharp arch of a
brow. Akane picked up the glass.
"More?" she said handing it to Ukyo. Smirking,
Ukyo went to refill it.
Through the doors another couple walked in.
"Nihao!" announced Shampoo, Mousse; her co-worker and
constant companion at the Neko Hanten, falling in step
close behind as she went to the counter. Tsubasa
tapped the stems of the spatulas together as if
sounding an alarm.
"Hey, hey, Ukyo. Better get on the phone and tell
Cologne she's got a couple of stray worker bee's in our
neck of the woods," he joked.
"Stop it, Kurenai," snapped Shampoo. "We just
come in to see if you have repair kit for flat on
Shampoo's bike."
Ranma turned in another order. "Oh, need some
help from the compition now, eh?"
"Things happen, Ranma," said Mousse. "Shampoo ran
over something outside, but I think its an excuse just
for her to come in here."
A smack on the head sent Mousse's glasses askew.
"Stop stupid ramblings, blind-boy," snapped
Shampoo. She started to move closer to Ranma, when the
sight of Akane at the counter made her pause. Ranma
noticed, looking back to Akane for a second.
"Hey, Shampoo, tell'ya what. We'll let you use
our kit if you and Mousse do me a favor and take Akane
back to the dojo."
"Why? Cannot silly-tomboy find way home?" asked
Shampoo.
"I think she's sick, but she won't admit it. How
`bout it?"
Shampoo thought a moment. "Okay, I do just for
you, Ranma-chan," she replied giving him a quick peck
on the cheek. Behind them, Akane's eyes narrowed
slightly.
"Uh, okay. Why don't you keep her company while I
go back and get the kit."
Shampoo agreed taking the seat next to Akane. She
smiled at the girl. "So you need help going back to
dojo?"
Akane arched a brow. "Why are you touching my
Guardian's face like that, Shampoo?" she said. "For
some strange reason I don't like that."
That caught Shampoo off guard. She frowned,
looking around to Tsubasa. "Why stupid Akane talk so
funny?" she said.
"Been doing it ever since coming in here," he
replied.
Ukyo returned placing another glass of water on
the counter. "You think that's something, wait till
you see this," she said.
Shampoo stared in shock as Akane virtually poured
the glass of water down her throat. Suddenly, she was
up off the stool peering close around Akane's neck.
"What are you doing, Shampoo," asked Akane.
"Shampoo look for gills. Did not know Akane part
fish."
Before Akane could respond, through the side doors
three people walked in gaining the immediate attention
of everyone in Uuchans. Shampoo sat up slowly;
Tsubasa, Mousse and Ukyo narrowing their eyes at them.
The newcomers attire immediately drew dark looks from
others, and it grew ominously quiet. Ukyo did not like
the implications of this, always dreading what she knew
eventually would happen.
Yakuza, the Japanese version of the mob. Ruthless
and cunning, their touch could be felt throughout the
business community. Ukyo had managed to stay out of
their grasp, thanks mainly to the efforts of Ranma,
Tsubasa, Konatsu, and Akane, still the threat remained
ever so close waiting for the chance to spring.
The three looked around the room, then one of them
pointed to a vacant table and they sat down.
"Hey, have things gotten so bad that we've got to
import outsiders for help?" said Mousse. "What's with
the gajin Yakuza?"
Tsubasa sneered contemptuously at them. "Do we
run them out?" he asked Ukyo.
She wanted to, but they had done nothing and gave
her no reason to do anything hostile. Slowly, Ukyo
shook her head. "I want no trouble in my restaurant.
Let's serve them just like we serve our regular
customers."
Out the back Ranma appeared. He came around the
counter, took one look at the newcomers and froze in
his tracks. "Hey, I thought we kicked these guys out
this side of Nerima?" he said tossing Mousse the repair
kit.
"Ranma," called Ukyo. "Behave, please. I don't
want any trouble, okay?"
"Oh no trouble. I'll just pound them into puddles
of unidentifiable mush and that will be it."
"She doesn't want any trouble, Ranma," said Akane.
"So be cordial."
Ranma looked back and forth between her and Ukyo.
"But--,"
"Please," said Ukyo.
He frowned but reluctantly agreed. Grabbing three
menus, he went over to the table. As he approached,
the tall black man seated at the center locked a steady
glare on him.
"Well, it's about time somebody decided to serve
us," he said. "Was beginning to think we'd contracted
the plague or someth'n."
Ranma stopped, sneering slightly at him. He
remembered Ukyo's request fighting back his sharp
remarks. "Can I help you?" he said through strained
lips.
Jay waited for the menus to be handed out, but
when the waiter remained immobile he clenched his eyes
tight. Pressing his hands to either side of his head,
Jay appeared to concentrate.
"Did you get that?" he asked looking back up at
him.
"Get what?" replied Ranma.
"Our orders. Since you holding all of the menus,
I suspect we have to guess what we want and
telepathically project it to you."
"What!" shouted Ranma.
Elle nudged Jay. "We're not here to start any
trouble," she said.
"Hey, I'm not the one with the attitude here,
Elle," replied Jay.
"Attitude!"
Ranma slammed the menus down on the table leaning
angrily over towards him. Jay frowned, rising slowly
up out of his chair.
"Yo, you best get your young punk ass back up out
my face before I do something you're not gonna like."
"Punk? PUNK!"
The infamous Akane Ponytail Pull drew Ranma away
from the table with a loud cry. She dragged him out of
earshot and proceeded to rage at him.
Jay sat back down, watching the two bickering at
the center of the room.
"Jay, that was not needed," said T.
"What do want me to do? He's the one coming off
like wrong, and what's with all this sudden hostility I
seem to be picking up around us?"
"My guess is they think we're Yakuza."
"Yaka-who?"
"Japanese Gangsters. See, if you had read the
book you'd know that," said Elle.
"Our attire is similar," added T.
"Ahhh," trailed Jay looking back to the two. He
listened for a moment, then started chuckling low.
"What's so funny?" asked Elle.
"That's got to be his woman," he replied.
Elle turned to face him. "And how would you know
this?"
"No man's going to take no stuff from no woman
like that unless she means something to him."
Elle cast a forlorned look to the ceiling, shaking
her head.
Jay's snickers increased as Akane drew up close
into Ranma's face. "Heh, heh, heh, look at her, Elle.
Just get'n UP into that ass!"
Akane backed away, stabbing an angry finger in
their direction. Ranma paused, then started to
protest, but another sharp gesture made him cringe. He
grit his teeth and returned to the table.
"I'm . . .," A brief look over the shoulder
brought a commanding gaze on him. "I'm s-s-s-sorry for
my bad display of . . . emotions."
"She's really got a hook in you," teased Jay.
"He's apologizing, Jay. Give him a break," Elle
said.
"Okay, okay. We cool, man."
Ranma fought down the knot in his stomach, wanting
to teach this arrogant foreigner some long overdue
manners. "Your orders?"
"I'll have Udon," said T.
"Nothing heavy for me," said Elle. "I'll have the
osushi platter."
Ranma wrote down the orders. "And . . . you?"
"Yeah, uh, I'll have some of these Japanese
Pancakes here," said Jay. "You guys have maple syrup
and butter with that?"
Ranma shook, eyes clenched tight. He could feel
Akane's withering gaze on his neck, and sighed. "That
is Okonomiyaki, sir. Ucchan's specialty."
"Oh, right!" exclaimed Jay peering close at the
picture on the menu. "It's past breakfast anyway.
Okay, Gus. I'll have one of these Yoko Ono things."
"It's Ranma, sir."
Jay squinted at the name tag on his chest. "So it
is."
Ranma narrowed his eyes, turning to place the
orders. A call stopped him.
"One more thing, Ranma," said T. "We're looking
for an Akane Tendo. Is she here?"
"Akane?"
Akane suddenly pressed her way past him. "I'm
Akane Tendo."
The three exchanged surprised looks. "Ah, Miss
Tendo," continued T. "We would like to speak with you
about last night, if you have the time?"
Akane bit her bottom lip nervously. "Are you
police?" she finally asked.
"Ah, related," answered T.
"And them?" said Ranma nodding to Jay and Elle.
"We're on kind of an exchange program," said Elle.
"You know, like college students," added Jay.
Ranma looked down at Akane waiting for her word.
She gave him a nod, and he went to place the orders.
Akane sat down.
"So you believe me?" said Akane. "The local
police acted like I was crazy or something."
"We believe you," replied T. "We're interested in
the persons pursing the old woman you mentioned in your
report."
"Did you find her?"
"The old woman? No," answered Elle.
Akane sagged, the pout returning to her face.
"She mean something to you?" asked Jay.
"She was my . . ." began Akane, her voice cast in
a strange tremolo pitch. The three traded confused
looks, then Akane looked up.
"I can't tell you much about the other two," she
said.
"Tell us what you can," said Elle.
"Well, I didn't see the one slinking around in the
dark to well, but he was running funny."
"Funny?" said T.
"Yes, kind of like a . . . a dog, or a large wolf
on the hunt."
"What about the other one?"
A visible shudder passed through Akane. "She was
creepy. I got a strange feeling from her, and she
stuck her tongue at me as she passed by."
"And you found that odd?"
"Well . . . I didn't tell this to the police
because I wasn't sure in the dim light, but it seemed
to be long."
"How long?" asked Elle.
Akane held her hands apart. "Oh, as a guess,
three maybe three and a half kilometers."
"English, Elle," said Jay.
"Geesh, that's about a foot and a half," she
replied.
"Well I'd say that'd be something to be scared
about."
T did not like the implications of this. Akane's
descriptions meant there was more than one type of
alien amongst Krin's group of pirates.
"What street did they go down?" he asked. Akane
pointed out the window behind them. "Thank you, Miss
Tendo. Can you ask your cook to make those orders to
go?"
"Sure."
Akane left, T looking to Jay and Elle.
"Something on your mind, T?" asked Jay.
"Yes. I want to check that street. See if
there's any trace we can pick up."
"If it's not to old," added Elle.
"We best get going then," said Jay. "To bad. I
wanted to check out this food too."
"When we're done, Jay," replied T.

* * * * *

After the three agents left, everyone gathered
around Akane at the counter curious to know what it was
they wanted with her. She sat on the stool, head held
in her hands obviously in some sort of discomfort.
Ukyo shook her lightly and she looked up.
"So what'd they want?" she asked.
"They wanted to know what I saw last night," she
told them.
"Oh, that," said Tsubasa. "So what are they if
they weren't Yakuza?"
"I think they were detectives."
Ukyo shook her head. "All dressed in black. Nah,
Yakuza. That old woman had something they wanted."
"Shampoo think Akane need to be more careful now
that Yakuza know who you are."
"Here, here," said Ranma.
Akane smiled, then suddenly grimaced. She placed
a hand to her chest leaning forwards. "Ranma, can you
take me home?" she asked.
"It's catching up with you isn't it?" said Ukyo.
Akane grimaced again, and Ranma placed an arm
around her. "Akane?" he said.
"I need to go home," she said.
"I was going to have Shampoo and Mousse take you
back," he said.
"No!" protested Akane. "You, just you."
Any other circumstance, Ranma would have said no,
but the threat of the Yakuza about made that option
null and void. "Is it okay, Ukyo?"
"Yeah, and I'm going with you," said Ukyo. "You
might need help."
"Shampoo go too."
"Thanks. Mousse can you stop by Doctor Tofu's and
ask him if he can come to the Dojo?"
"Yeah, I'll get him."
Ranma scooped Akane up in his arms and headed for
the door. Ukyo pulled off her apron, donning her
bandoleer and Battle Spatula. "Tsubasa, call Konatsu
and have him come in. Tell him Ranma and I will take
his shift tonight."
"Right. Take care, Akane."
Akane waved goodbye to Kurenai as Ranma carried
her out the door.

* * * * *

Konatsu arrived a short time later and the two
rivals/friends handled the lunchtime surge of customers
without any problems. Soon, things started to die down
and Kurenai manned the counter while Konatsu went in
the back to record the transactions. There were a few
customers in the restaurant, but all in all it had
grown quiet. The front bell chimed and in walked the
Kuno siblings.
Great, what do they want? wondered Kurenai. He
placed the paper he was reading down and stood up.
"Help you?"
Tatewaki Kuno stood dressed in his training
outfit, bokoto sword tucked neatly in his sash, looking
around the room. "I was told the Fair Akane was
slaving away in this lower establishment," he said.
"This is not a lower establishment, Tatewaki,"
replied Kurenai. "We serve very good meals here, so
please just a little respect."
The Kuno's walked over to the counter and sat
down.
"So, is it true?" he asked.
"About Akane? Oh yes, she works here."
It appeared that something just hit Tatewaki in
the heart, eyes clenching tight as he reached for his
chest. "Oh the indignity," he said. "I could have
taken her away from all of this, made her a respectable
woman in a household of standing. Instead, she would
grovel amongst this . . . place to toil in suffrage and-
-,"
"Brother," Kodachi Kuno finally said breaking his
tirade. "Melodramatics are not needed. Akane can
choose any form of work she wishes."
"But to chose this over me! Why, it is
unthinkable."
Only in your dreams, Kurenai thought humorously.
"Hush, brother," continued Kodachi. She smiled,
unsettling to Kurenai, arching a brow. "And what of my
darling Ranma. Is he here too?"
"Yes, he's working here also."
"I see." Kodachi rubbed her chin in deep thought
for a moment. "So when does my darling Ranma slave, I
mean work here?"
"I caught that. Usually, he's working the day
shift with Ukyo and myself."
"And of Akane?" asked Tatewaki.
"She and Konatsu work the evenings."
The Kuno's exchanged pleased looks. If this was
true, then Ranma and Akane were for the most part
separate, and that meant golden opportunities for them
to exploit.
"Sooo, Ranma is here now?" asked Kodachi.
"They were," answered Kurenai.
"They?"
"Yeah. Akane came in here a little while ago.
Then we had some very unexpected visitors that sort'a
disrupted things."
"Trouble?" said Tatewaki.
"Nothing apparent, but were not sure. Anyway,
Akane became ill, Ranma, Ukyo, Mousse and Shampoo took
her home."
"Akane ill!" exclaimed Tatewaki. "I must go and
procure flowers then and pay my respects."
"I don't know if you want to, Tatewaki. Whatever
she had looked very nasty. Akane was acting strange,
drinking like a fish, calling Ranma her `Guardian',"
"What!" cried Tatewaki. He shot to his feet.
"How dare that impetuous subling take claim to my
position!"
"It had to be a trick by Akane to get Ranma all by
herself," said Kodachi. "Some poison will fix things."
"You will not harm her, Kodachi," snarled
Tatewaki.
"Just try and stop me, brother dear!"
Tatewaki was reaching for his bukoto; Kodachi
fingering the sash around her waist, when through the
side doors a large group of customers walked in. The
tallest thumped his head on the upper door jamb, but
grunted low as he ducked underneath.
"Say can you two control your squabbling, or take
it outside, please," said Kurenai. He went over to
greet the newcomers. "Welcome to Uuchans. Please have
a--,"
"I seek the human female that was here last
night," demanded the man standing at the fore of the
group.
Tsubasa was taken slightly aback by such brash
behavior. The sneer he was receiving from the stranger
brought his senses on edge, a personal alarm that meant
trouble brewed in the wings. Behind him, Tatewaki and
Kodachi broke from their fight suddenly curious what
these people wanted with Akane.
"Uhm, yes we have plenty of seats available to
accommodate your party," replied Kurenai.
The brows of the man furrowed. He glanced over to
his companion. "Did I speak in the wrong tounge,
Qu'tok?"
"No, Krin. I believe our friend here is being . .
. funny."
Two figures stepped out from behind the hulking
man and Kurenai grimaced recognizing the suits they
wore. Definitely trouble, he slowly inched back
towards the other end of the counter. The group
followed him.
They deployed strategically around them, blocking
off any routes of escape. Krin took up a stool,
resting his chin on the tips of his fingers as he
stared at Tsubasa for a moment.
"Ha, ha," he said. "I want the female that was
here last night, and I want her now."
Kurenai paused then look back over his shoulder.
"Konatsu!" he called out.
Konatsu appeared from the back. He came to an
abrupt stop, starting at the gathering of persons
around the counter.
"That's not her," said Binimi. She squinted her
eyes, giving Konatsu a closer examination. "I don't
know what this is, but it looks tasty."
Krin cast her an angry glance, Binimi shrugging
with a grin.
"Trouble?" asked Konastu standing next to Kurenai.
"This guy here wants Akane," he said.
Krin paused catching the name. "Aaakkkannee?"
"That's A-kan-ne, sir."
Mouthing the proper pronunciation, Krin nodded his
head. "So where is this `Akane'?"
Konatsu noticed that Kodachi had removed her
battle ribbon, twirling it in her hands; Tatewaki
palming the hilt of his bokotu. If there was to be a
fight he knew they would be there to help.
"Akane Tendo is currently at home." Konatsu told
them.
"Where is this `home'?"
Konatsu frowned. "This one is a very demanding
person," he said to Tsubasa.
"Quite rude."
Krin's anger started to build. He leveled a dark
gaze on the two men and snarled, "Where is this Akane
Tenduu?"
"Why?" asked Kurenai. "You guys already talked to
her."
"We did?" said Qu'tok.
"Yes. Not you inparticular, but some other of
your associates," he replied gesturing towards Alid and
Koo.
Morea moved up next to Krin with some urgency.
"M.I.B., Krin. M.I.B.!" she said.
Krin placed a scowl on his face, turning slightly
to one side thinking. Obviously their raid was not all
as effective as hoped. Now plans would have to be push
up if they were to stay one step ahead of them.
"Tell us where Akane Tenduu is," demanded Krin
once again.
"It's Tendo, and we're not allowed to release
employee information to strangers," said Konatsu.
"I see."
Krin sat back, the scowl still etched on his face.
"Persuasion is needed here."
"We don't want trouble," said Konatsu.
"Well, you have found it. Glator!"
Two beefy hands flashed out, Konatsu and Kurenai
gasping in surprise as they were taken roughly by their
throats and lifted from the floor. Almost
simultaneously, Tatewaki's bokoto appeared pointed
menacingly close to Glator's left eye.
"Put them down," he ordered the giant humanoid.
Beside him, Kodachi took stance. Her deadly
ribbon cut a swirling figure eight through the air,
holding Teq and Binimi at bay for the moment. Tatewaki
made a light thrust poking Glator. He let out an angry
snarl and dropped his two victims.
"I will kill you, little man," Glator said turning
to face Tatewaki.
"Hold on, Glator," called Qu'tok.
Coming around, he stood between his compatriot and
Tatewaki curiously eyeing the bukoto. Tatewaki drew it
back, aiming it at Qu'tok.
"Do not give me grounds to hurt you as well,
stranger," he said.
If he heard, Qu'tok paid no mind still examining
the weapon. Suddenly he opened his mouth, and before
Tatewaki could react, rapidly chewed halfway down the
wooden shaft.
Tatewaki's mouth sagged; Kodachi letting her
ribbon come to a stop as they both stared at what was
left. Qu'tok's mouth chewed rapidly, and he swallowed
letting out a hum of satisfaction. Tatewaki started to
draw what was left of his bukoto away, but Qu'tok
reached out taking it effortlessly from his grip.
"It is good," he said taking another bite as he
walked aside.
"Oh, we are in trouble," declared Kurenai inching
back to the far wall.
Krin laughed, a rarity for him. "Now then,
humans. Let us resume our discussion on the
whereabouts of this `Akane Tendo'.
The pirates around the four started closing in.

* * * * *

A few blocks up the street from Uuchans, Jay,
Elle, and T scanned the surrounding area searching for
any evidence of offworlder activity. They were
currently searching an alley, Elle running soil test
through her scanner as T and Jay kept a look out.
Suddenly, Jay frowned tipping an ear back down the
street.
"Something the matter, Jay?" asked T.
Jay listened, then shook his head. "Naw, I
thought I heard something familiar," he answered.
Elle called waving them over.
"I've got a trace," she said showing them her
screen. T studied the readout, letting out a low click
of his tongue.
"This is very bad," he said. "Lupicanus, that
would be Akane's stalking creature."
"So what's a `Najelian' anyway?" asked Jay.
"A very bad lifeform, Jay," answered Elle. "Krin
certainly knows how to pick'em."
"What is that last one, Elle?"
At the bottom of the screen there was one last
lifeform reading. `Polymorian' it read. T let out a
hum.
"Polymorian . . . a shape-shifter?" he finally
said.
"You mean like the blob?" said Jay.
T laughed. "Close. If memory serves me right,
Poly's are grouped into several categories. One is
Shape-Shifting, another is Absorption, and I believe
there is one that remains fluid."
Jay was lost. He swore he'd review every M.I.B.
book he could find once he got back to headquarters.
"Uh, Elle?"
"Layman's terms, an intelligent mound of Silly-
Putty," she said.
A dim crash was heard, Jay turning back down the
alley. He knew he'd heard something like that before,
the old instincts of a cop returning.
"Maybe we should go and check that out?"
"Why?" asked Elle.
"Sound like a fight to me."
"Let the police handle it, Jay," Elle said.
"We've got more important things to worry about.
"Yeah, but it sounds like it's coming from where
we just came from."
"Ucchan's?" questioned T.
"Could be. I wonder if that punk Ranma is getting
his butt kicked by Akane."
Something clicked inside T. Pointing thoughtfully
to Jay, he started to hurriedly head back to the
street.
"T, what's up?" called Jay following him.
"It might be that we are not the only ones looking
for Miss Tendo, Jay."
Jay realized what he was getting at. "Come on,
Elle," he said breaking into a run.

* * * * *

Tables cracked, Konatsu slamming one down across
the backside of Glator. At best it only tingled, the
hulking humanoid turning around to hit him with the
side of a hand. Konatsu sailed across the room into
the far wall and slid to the floor in a daze.
Near the center of Ucchan's, Kurenai held a chair
before him, deflecting the swipes and blows Qu'tok
made, desperately trying to keep out of anyone's
clutches. Tatewaki appeared briefly beside him,
letting out a cry while ducking a burly swipe from Teq.
"Tsubasa, give them any address so they'll leave!"
he said frantically.
"Why me. You know where Akane lives too!" shouted
Tsubasa.
"Ahh, holding out on us, eh?" said Qu'tok lashing
out at Tatewaki. His jab send Tatewaki across some
tables, rumbling to a stop next to Konatsu. A foot hit
Qu'tok in the chin knocking him back. Kodachi;
spinning on her hands, made a graceful twist connecting
with Teq, then landed on her feet.
"How dare you hit my brother like that," she
shouted at them. "Only I am allow such liberties."
Gossamer strands of fiber suddenly snaked out
entwining themselves around Kodachi. She cried out,
struggling desperately to get free, but they pulled
tight binding her limbs together. Alid and Koo stole
up, leering smiles on their faces.
"Neatly done as usual," said Alid.
"Do we drink our fill?" asked Koo.
"Not yet. This human female might have uses for
Krin still."
Together, they picked Kodachi up, tossing her
screaming across the room to join the others.
Tsubasa stood in terror as he was slowly
surrounded by the pirates. At the counter, Krin,
Morea, and Binimi sat watching the fight, waiting
patiently for their victims to be subdued. Krin's eyes
drifted to the crowd peering in through the outside
windows. He sneered, waving them away and the people
quickly ran off.
"Such nuisances these humans are," he said.
"Qu'tok, are you through playing with them?"
"Yes, Krin, I believe we are done now."
"Then bring that scrawny one over here with the
others."
"Right away, Krin. Glator."
An effortless toss sent Kurenai smashing into the
wall above his downed colleagues. He crumpled to the
floor panting hard as the pain continued to wash over
him.
"Oh, Konatsu . . . you awake?" he managed to say.
"I'm coherent."
"Good, then you can explain to Ukyo why her place
is a mess. I don't think I'm going to be able to talk
much after this."
Krin walked over standing triumphantly above the
four on the floor. "Now then. The location of Akane
Tendo. Are you prepared to give it to me?"
Tatewaki rolled onto his side glaring defiantly up
at Krin. "We'll not buckle to your will," he said.
"Hold on, Tachi," said Kodachi. She wriggled her
way over to him. "Maybe we should consider this
gentleman's request."
"This is not the time for weak wills, sister."
"But if he happens to kill Akane, then my chances
with Ranma increase."
"And did you consider Saotome might be there when
he does arrive, hmm?"
Kodachi paused, letting out a low pout. She
looked up at Krin. "Sorry, sir. I'm afraid we'll have
to decline giving you that information."
With a loud growl, Krin reached down and snatched
Tsubasa from the floor. He held him up by the scruff
of his shirt and snarled.
"Since you were the first to resist me, I'll let
you be the first to feel my wrath." Extending a pinky
finger, Krin pressed it up to the corner of Kurenai's
left eye.
"What I am going to do, little scrawny human is
ask you one more time where Akane Tendo is. Now you
can tell us, or you can take us to her, I do not care."
Tsubasa swallowed the lump in his throat. "A-and
if I don't?"
"I'm going to push my finger into your eyesocket,
grab what stem I can get a hold of, then slowly pull
until it snaps. And that's only the beginning."
"Oh great. Eyes!" said Koo cheerfully. "I wonder
if these humans have seasoning around--,"
"Shut up, Koo!" snapped Krin. He drew Kurenai
closer.
"Akane Tendo. Where is she?"
Shudders traveled through Tsubasa. Konatsu,
Kodachi and Tatewaki watched helplessly awaiting what
he would say. Before he could answer, the door bell
behind them chimed.
"E'scuse me!" called a loud voice.
Krin and the pirates turned to see Jay standing at
the door holding a white takeout bag in his hand.
"Hey, check it out," continued Jay, placing the
bag on a chair. "This Sushi stuff you sold us, it was
cold and that ain't going to hang, man. We'd like our
money back."
T and Elle walked in standing at either side of
Jay angry gazes on their faces.
"We'll be right with you, sir," said Kurenai.
Krin growled, roughly tossing him back to the
floor. He moved up front recognizing the M.I.B.
uniforms. "Always problems," he said with a sigh.
Jay crossed his arms. "So which one of you is
Inentimus Krin?"
The pirates were surprised that he knew the name
of their leader. Krin stepped forward.
"I'm Krin. What is it to you, M.I.B. man?"
"Not much," replied Jay, reaching into his jacket.
"I just wanted to know who to tell to put your stupid
hands over your dumb-ass head, turn your silly butt
around and kneel with the rest of your pack of losers.
You are busted, pal!"
Jay drew his blaster, T and Elle mimicking the
move.
A chuckle came from Krin. He laughed more,
casting looks to his team humored by the command.
"These little M.I.B. agents are all the same no
matter where we go," he said.
"Extremely overconfident," remarked Binimi. "Do
you want us to take them out?"
"Glator kill M.I.B. scum!"
"You go ahead and come at us, big stuff," said
Elle waving him over. "It will be no problem placing a
few Ion burst into your pointed head."
"Inentimus Krin, you have a lot to atone for," T
said leveling his stare on the pirate leader.
Krin smirked. "Not anytime soon."
On the floor, Tsubasa and Konatsu managed to
regain enough of their sense to crawl over to Tatewaki.
He knelt tugging at the strands holding his sister fast
trying to pull them off.
"Tachi, who are those people?" asked Kodachi.
"I don't, ugh, know sister, but they must know who
these people are."
Tsubasa began pulling on the strands. "That's the
Yakuza that came in here looking for Akane earlier," he
said.
"They're Yakuza?" said Konatsu. "I do not think
so."
"Whatever the case maybe, who's side do we take?"
asked Kodachi.
"Obviously the lesser of two evils, sister,"
answered Tatewaki.
Back at the confrontation, Jay had enough of the
small talk from Krin and his team.
"Okay, look. Talk is over, Krin. You and your
sorry bunch better just turn around and place those
hands over your heads before things get real ugly for
you all."
"I'm not surrendering to you, M.I.B. pest,"
replied Krin. He looked down at Morea. "I believe you
are on, my dear."
Morea smiled. She started walking seductively
towards the agents. Blasters came up, the release of
safeties sounding. Reaching up, Morea started a slow
gyration of her hips while undoing the front buttons of
her blouse.
"That's far enough," said T.
"What are going to do, little girl. Striptease me
into submission?" said Jay.
"I say we let her have it," Elle said to them.
T agreed, and was just about to fire a shot, when
a bright flash from Morea blinded them. Jay, Elle, and
T cried out shielding their eyes. Hidden guns appeared
in the pirates hands, Glator pointing two stubby
pistols in Jays direction.
"Look out!" shouted Tsubasa, and Jay instinctively
dived for the floor. A loud boom sounded and the side
of Uuchans shattered with a roar. The pirates
scattered taking cover behind whatever was handy as
shots were exchanged.
Tsubasa, Konatsu, Tatewaki, and Kodachi cried out
in terror, huddling close on the floor as the carnage
increased.
"We are definitely out classed here!" shouted
Kurenai.
"Tell us something we don't know!" replied
Tatewaki. Peering up, the scion of the Kuno clan
watched as Glator's hulking frame rose up from behind a
table firing at T and Jay. They dived over what
remained of the wall behind them, hunkering down on the
pavement as the blast tore into the street beyond.
"Man, this is getting out of hand, T!" shouted Jay
above the din. Elle stepped around the corner of the
shattered doorway braving the gunfire. She took aim
and fired, hitting one of Glator's hands. A loud roar
followed the blaster clattering to the floor. Angrily
he turned to fire, but she repeated her action and the
giant tucked his wounded fist protectively to his sides
growling in pain. Glator let out a yell as a berserker
rage rushed through him. He charged Elle and she
screamed diving for cover. T and Jay rose up trying to
cover her, but a furious barrage from Qu'tok, Alid and
Koo drove them back down.
"Get out of there, Elle!" cried Jay.
Tatewaki acted. "Tsubasa!" he said grabbing the
end of a near-by table. Together they heaved it with
all of their might across the floor. It might not have
been enough to hurt Glator, but it was enough to trip
him up. As Glator hit the floor, Krin snarled looking
back at them.
"Binimi, kill those fools!" he shouted.
Binimi rose up from behind the counter a slim
pistol in her hand. She let out a hiss moving for the
far end. Tatewaki and Kurenai cried out diving away as
she fired, rolling up against the base of the counter.
Binimi leaped over the top landing over a still bound
and helpless Kodachi.
"Tachi!" she yelled, squirming around trying to
escape. It was Konatsu who came to her rescue, an
upwards kick propelling Binimi back over the counter.
She rolled into the back office slamming up against the
desk.
Shaking the stars from her eyes, Binimi hissed
ready to rejoin the fray, when she noticed a calendar
up on the wall next to the door. A list of names were
written on the side, what little kanji she had learned
drawing out `Tendo' in one block. Snatching it from
the wall, Binimi realized she had hit the jackpot.
Outside, Krin helped Glator scramble back behind
an overturned table under the cover of Alid and Koo.
The sound of sirens from the street only signaled more
trouble was to come, and they were no closer to finding
this Tendo female as long as M.I.B. pressed them.
"Krin!" called Binimi.
"What is it, and I thought I told you to--,"
"I've found her!" she cut in.
"Who, the Tendo female?"
Binimi held up the calendar, pointing to the
address on it. Krin understood. "Qu'tok, Teq, we're
leaving!" he shouted to his henchmen. Immediately the
two bounded over the counter; Alid and Koo laying down
a furious barrage covering Krin and Morea as they
helped Glator towards the front entrance. Binimi
rushed to join them, stopping briefly before Konatsu on
the ground.
"I'll get you later, little whatever you are," she
said flicking her slender tongue at him. Krin called
and she retreated through the doors.
Jay peered up noticing the pirates escaping and
leaped to his feet. He dashed for the corner spotting
them running up the street and took aim.
"Jay, no!" shouted Elle. She pointed to the crowd
of people around them.
Damn, mutter Jay quickly covering up his weapon.
"Come'on, Elle. We've got to get after them!"
"We can't go, Jay," said T. "Too many witnesses."
"So let a clean up crew get in here and--,"
"We are the clean-up crew, remember?"
Realizing that there was only the three of them
left in the field, Jay muttered a curse staring at the
pirate's retreating forms. "Yeah you better run,
Krin!" he shouted.
Ucchan's was a shambles before they got there, now
it was a disaster. Elle stood looking over what
remained and shook her head.
"Is this going to take some time," she said.
T reholstered his pistol. "Yes, so we better get
started." He pulled out his nuralizer. "I'll take
this group."
Elle drew hers, setting the controls.
"Uh, ladies and gentlemen can I have your
attention please."

* * * * *

Konatsu sat perched on a stool gazing around at
his former place of employ wondering how he and Kurenai
were going to explain this to Ukyo. Behind him, with
his head face down on the counter, Tsubasa sobbed
muttering over and over, "She's going to kill us.
She's going to kill us!"
Kodachi stood next to him, lending a comforting
hand on the shoulder, trying to calm the man down.
Several unusual bright flashes reflected from the
street, and Konatsu turned to the man talking quietly
with Tatewaki.
"So let me get this right. You and your
associates are `Insurance' representatives?"
"Uh, yeah," answered Jay. "I'm uh . . . what the
hell, I'm Jay from Shone Knife Inc. That's my partner
Elle, and Tee is our Tokyo rep."
"Konatsu. I'm still at a loss why insurance reps
need such sophisticated weaponry."
"Hey, next to lawyers, we need all the protection
we can get."
Tatewaki introduced himself. "My sister; Kodachi,
and our sobbing friend is Tsubasa Kurenai. I trust you
will need statements from us."
"Right, just as soon as my partners clean, I mean
finish up things outside. You know that was a pretty
brave thing you guys did standing up to those thugs
like that."
Tsubasa sat up, turning around. "Didn't mean to
do that," he said. "They just pushed us a bit to far."
"Speaking of which, who were `They'," asked
Tatewaki.
Jay stuttered, trying to think up a quick
explanation they four would buy. He did not need to, T
and Elle re-entering the shattered restaurant.
"Everything is fixed, Jay," said Elle. "T called
Ringo and told him he'd have to come down here tonight
and fix this place up."
"He wasn't very happy about it," added T.
"Good, good. I guess we can get off after Krin
and his gang now," said Jay.
"Krin. I don't remember hearing of that Yakuza
clan," said Kodachi. "Are they new in town?"
"No, madam," answered T. "They are--," Jay
nudged him lightly in the ribs, and he quickly
understood. "Yes! They kind of moved in overnight."
"Bastards. I definitely want revenge on those two
comedians for netting me like they did. I am not a
fish to be pluck out of the water."
"Not me," said Tsubasa. "They can stay gone for
all I care. Bad enough Ukyo's going to be after our
heads for letting this happen."
Elle inched closer to Jay. "You ready to zap'em,"
she muttered out the corner of her mouth.
He nodded. Putting on his protective sunglasses,
Jay produced his Nuralizer switching it on.
"What is that?" asked Konatsu.
"This? It's a camera," Jay said. "Now you guys
get over here against the counter so I can get a
picture."
"It's for legal purposes," said T.
Konatsu frowned looking to Tatewaki, then gave
them a light shrug heading for the counter. Moving
close together, they stood waiting for Jay to take his
picture.
"Look into the light and--,"
"Hold on a minute," said Tsubasa. He broke from
his position, moving around towards the back office.
"Something wrong?" asked Elle.
"I want to make sure this is okay with Ukyo. I
mean if there's to be any legal stuff going on, I'm
sure she'd like to know about it. Besides, it's better
that she know now, then later on."
"Oh don't worry. She's going to know," lied Jay.
"I still want to call her." Kurenai picked up the
phone. He stepped in back for a moment then stuck his
head out again.
"Hey, Konatsu. Where's Akane's phone number?"
"Should be right there on the calendar above the
work schedule."
Kurenai disappeared again, the sounds of rummaging
being heard. "No it's not," he called out.
"Right next to the door, Tsubasa."
"It's not here!"
"The number?"
"The calendar!"
"That's strange. It was--,"
Konatsu froze, a lost expression on his face. He
recalled the fight, remembering who it was that was in
there just before it ended. His jaw sagged, and slowly
Konatsu turned around. Kurenai was already ahead of
him, eyes wide as he stood in the doorway, speechless.
"We have got to go!" Konatsu exclaimed hurrying
for the front doors.
"Yo, hold on a minute!" called Jay. "We can call
this Ukyo later."
"You don't understand, Mister Jay," said Kurenai.
"'WE' need to go now!"
"Why?" asked Elle.
"That calendar had our addresses on it," explained
Konatsu.
"Oh my goodness!" exclaimed Kodachi.
Tatewaki shot to the door. "That means the Fair
Akane is in danger!" he shouted bolting out.
"Uhoh," said Jay. "Looks like this ain't over
yet," he said.
Kodachi rushed after her brother, Konatsu and
Kurenai close behind. T went after them, then Elle
followed.
"Come on, Jay!" she shouted.
"We gonna run all the way?" he replied.
"Come on!"
Jay shook his head. "And me without my Air
Jordans," he grumbled running after her. Jay stopped
just long enough to turn the `Closed' sign out before
heading up the street.















The ongoing saga continues...
---------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------


Part Three

New Kids on the Block.

Gathered around Akane's bed, everyone looked on in
silence as Doctor Tofu pulled the thermometer from
Akane's mouth holding it up. He closed an eye, letting
out a light hum.
"Is serious, Doc?" asked Ranma.
"No, it is nothing to worry much about," Doctor
Tofu answered him. "A mild fever that some rest will
take care off."
Ranma was relieved. He looked down at Akane,
finding her smiling up at him. Suddenly, she reached
from beneath the covers, taking his hand.
At the foot of the bed, Ukyo and Shampoo placed
angry frowns on their faces, annoyed by this show of
emotion.
"Akane not too sick to make pass at husband,"
snarled Shampoo.
"He's not your `husband', Shampoo," said Ukyo.
"You're right though. This must be some kind of
trick."
Tofu laughed. He closed up his bag and stood up.
"No, Akane's not pretending, girls," he said.
"So what does she have?" asked Mousse.
"I'm not sure. From what all of you have told me,
it's either a weak version of the flu, or . . . she's
pregnant."
"WHAT!" cried the group around him.
Dark glares formed, all eyes slowly drifting
towards Ranma. He swallowed the sudden lump in his
throat glancing around nervously.
"Hey, wait just one minute! I did nothing to
Akane. Nothing!"
Shampoo cracked her knuckles. "You sound like
American President. LIAR!"
"How could you, Ranma!" shouted Ukyo.
"No, no, you're wrong!" exclaimed Ranma. He
looked to Nabiki and Kasumi for help, but they both
stood immobile, to shocked to do anything. Mousse
snickered behind them, enjoying the situation. A
gentle squeeze of his hand brought Ranma back to Akane.
She did not seem to care about the accusation, smile
growing even wider.
"Doc!" he cried.
"Hold on, everyone," Tofu interceded. "I have not
run any test on her blood sample yet so don't jump to
conclusions. Besides, I believe Ranma."
That diffused the situation for the moment.
"Gee, Doc. Don't be telling them things like
that," Ranma said.
Tofu laughed. "Well, if it was true, then at
least I'd be close by to administer immediate first
aid."
"Doc!"
"Just kidding, Ranma."
Kasumi tapped Doctor Tofu lightly on the shoulder.
"Ono, stop teasing him."
Tofu's body began to shake at the tender touch of
Kasumi's hand. He quivered uncontrollably, medical bag
quaking in his grasp.
"U-u-u-h-h-h, y-y-ess, K-K-Kassuuummmiii," he
stammered.
Kasumi giggled, leading the good doctor out.
"I'll be back with some nice hot tea, Akane," she said.
Nabiki snickered as they disappeared. "You know,
we should try and find a way for Doc T to get over his
affliction with Kasumi," she said.
"Somebody needs to find away to cure this
affliction Akane has for Ranma," replied Ukyo.
"I get scimitar and chop off hands. That fix
problem," said Shampoo.
"Okay, ladies. Let's not get carried away here,"
Nabiki said. "Now why don't we all leave Akane alone
and let her get some rest."
"Good idea," agreed Ranma. He started to rise,
but Akane's grip tightened.
"No! Ranma are you going to leave me now?" Akane
said.
"Well you do need to get some--,"
"Stay."
The look Ranma and Akane gave each other brought
the steam back up to Shampoo and Ukyo ears.
"Okay, let's break that up now!" said Ukyo
snapping her fingers rapidly at them.
"Come on, Ukyo," said Nabiki. She grinned, gazing
at the two. "Can't you see how natural they are
together."
Shampoo reached out, smacking Ranma sharply on the
back of his head. "Ranma, stop leering at Akane like
baby seal," she said. "We go now!"
"No!" pleaded Akane again.
"Shampoo, if Akane wants him to stay, what's the
harm in that?" asked Mousse not minding the change in
the relationship.
Ukyo tensed. "Not a chance," she said slowly
rounding on him. "No way am I leaving those two alone.
From the looks of things, if Akane isn't pregnant now,
she will be by days end."
"Hey, I have some morals here too you know!" said
Ranma. Akane's hand squeezed his again. The loving
glow about her face made Ranma shudder, feelings he
longed to let be know slowly surging forth. Abruptly,
Ranma looked up casting them an innocent gaze.
A small form suddenly moved under the sheets,
climbing over Akane. P-chan's tiny head appeared from
under the sheets, and the piglet snarled up at Ranma.
"Stop it, P-chan," Akane scolded her pet with a
light smack on the snout.
"That it," said Shampoo, sitting down on the
floor. "I not moving from this spot."
"But Shampoo, we've still have deliveries to make,
and--,"
"Great Grandma understand," replied Shampoo as she
turned off her beeper.
"I'm not leaving either," said Ukyo pulling the
chair from Akane's desk.
"What about your restaurant?" asked Nabiki.
"It'll keep."
Nabiki realized that there was no talking to them.
She grabbed Mousse by a sleeve, pulling him towards the
door. "Come on, Mousse. What say I power up the SEGA
and break you down in a few rounds of Street Fighter
X?"
Mousse shrugged. "Why not. Everyone else seems
to have lost their minds today."

* * * * *

At the front gate to the Tendo Dojo, Kasumi bid
Doctor Tofu good-bye. She rose up on her toes and
planted a light kiss on his cheek. Tofu's eyes
fluttered. He staggered around, dancing a light jig
along the sidewalk heading back to his office. So
giddy was he completely ignored the small group of
people standing casually at the corner as he passed.
Finding directions to the dojo was not hard,
Inentimus Krin leading his team of pirates to their
objective. He stood holding up the calendar in his
hand looking for a match to the writing.
"Ah, there it is," he said spotting the Tendo name
plaque on the gate. Tossing the calendar over a
shoulder, Krin led them across the street to the
entrance. A skilled eye looked over the high wall.
"Hmm, this Tendo lives in a fortress," he said.
"Not much on defense," commented Qu'tok. "Where
are the guards, where are the electronic surveillance
units?"
"On this primitive planet?" said Teq. "Alid and
Koo could walk in with bells on and still succeed."
"Enough," ordered Krin. "Teq, Morea sweep the
left. Qu'tok, take Alid and Koo around the right.
Find a back entrance and secure entry."
The five pirates split up, scaling the walls with
little effort. Krin looked up at Glator. "How are
your wounds?" he asked.
Glator held up his bandaged hands, flexing his
fingers. "I can still feel soreness in them, but I am
functional," he answered.
Krin nodded. Giving Binimi a motion with a hand,
the woman slinked up to the gates. A gentle push had
them open and the trio went inside.

* * * * *

In the kitchen, Kasumi stood at the sink washing a
few dishes while waiting for the water on the stove to
heat up. Her mind drifted, daydreaming about Ono and a
life with him. Sadly, Kasumi sighed.
"A dream, just a dream," she said rinsing the
glass in her hand. She picked up a towel, turning to
lean back against the sink, thinking while she worked.
"Such chances, decisions I have to make. My
family, what will become of them if I leave?"
A slight rustle from outside brought her around.
A blur darted by to quick for her to identify. Kasumi
peered around, but saw nothing. "Probably a bird," she
said resuming her task.
Opening the upper cupboard, Kasumi returned the
glass to its spot, and when she looked back to get
another she yelped stepping back. Two men dressed
strangely in dark suits stood peering in through the
window, broad smiled on their faces. The back door
opened and a young man stuck his head inside. He
looked up at her and started, not expecting anyone to
be standing there.
Kasumi stammered, thinking this was some kind of
robbery. She backed away, but ran up against something
large and solid. Fearfully, she peered up staring
straight into the eyes of a hulking man with a dark
scowl on his face. Another yelp, Kasumi side stepping
to the left.
Two more men and women entered penning her in
against the wall. The eldest of them looked her over,
then turned to the woman next to him.
"Binimi?"
"No, that's not her," Binimi said.
Krin looked at Kasumi. "Tell me. Where might I
find--,"
A damp towel flew over Krin's head, Kasumi letting
out yet another yelp darting through the surrounding
people before they could react.
"Stop her!" commanded Krin.
Kasumi was almost to the door when a thick wad of
sticky material caught her feet. She teetered trying to
maintain her balance, then several strands of webbing
wound themselves around her upper body forcing her arms
to her sides. She began to cry out, but Alid quickly
stepped up.
"Be silent, human female," he said knitting a
thick strand of webbing across her mouth.
Helpless, Kasumi struggled in vain to break free,
moaning as she tried to call for help.
Krin jerked the towel from his head. He stalked
angrily, getting up into Kasumi's face.
"That-was-stupid," he snarled. Kasumi cringed,
whimpering in terror. "Now, where is Akane Tendo?"
questioned Krin.
Kasumi's eyes darted around at the people around
her, wondering what it was that they wanted with her
younger sister. From the looks of things it was not
going to be good. She shrugged.
"Not the answer I want," said Krin. Reaching up,
Krin took hold of her face and started to squeeze.
Kasumi let out a muffled moan of pain. "Again! Tell me
where--,"
"Kasumi!" called a voice from out in the hall.
The pirates tensed, then Krin motioned to them to
follow as he stepped out.
"Teq, bring her," ordered Qu'tok.
Teq grabbed Kasumi by the back of her dress, took
hold of her ankles and pulled her free of the goo
fixing her to the floor. She tried to call out a
warning, kicking and struggling in his grasp as they
went into the hall.
Ranma called for Kasumi again, sure he heard her
scream. With Akane finally asleep, he managed to steal
away and check on her. Before he could round the
corner of the hall, a stranger appeared stopping him in
his tracks. For a moment they stared at each other.
"Who the hell are you, and did Kasumi let you in?"
Ranma finally asked.
Qu'tok appeared next to Krin. The two traded
looks then Krin spoke.
"Where is Akane Tendo?"
The words seemed foreign to Ranma. He smirked
glancing down at the floor for a moment. "Okay, I must
be speaking in Mandarin," he said. "I'll ask again.
What are you two doing in here, and where is Kasumi?"
"Another funny human," said Qu'tok.
"I am tired of playing this game," Krin said.
"Where is Tendo!"
Teq appeared behind them, Kasumi still upheld in
his grip.
"MMRRRAMMMAAA!" she called in a muffled cry.
Ranma stepped back taking a defensive stance.
"Hey, what have you done to Kasumi?" he shouted.
"Nothing yet, human!" replied Krin. "Now take us
to Akane Tendo!"
Ranma called back over his shoulder. "Yo! Hey I
need your help down here!"
Footsteps sounded, Ukyo, Shampoo, Mousse, and
Nabiki trundling down the steps.
"What do you need Ra--. Hey, what are you doing
to Kasumi!" Ukyo cried drawing her battle spatula.
Krin called Binimi up. She looked over each
woman, then shook her head. "Nope, not any of them,"
she said.
"She must be up on the next level, Krin," said
Alid.
Krin glanced briefly up at the ceiling. "Get out
of our way, humans," he commanded them.
"Ranma, who is pushy man and why he here?" asked
Shampoo.
"I don't know, but after what he's done to Kasumi,
he's not getting out of here in one piece."
"What! You dare threaten me. A puny human like
you?" Krin let out a derisive snort. "Qu'tok, him you
may kill!"
"What about the others?"
"I do not care what you do with them."
"Can we eat them?" asked Koo.
"If it gets them out of my way, yes!"
Teq barked out a laugh. He pressed Kasumi face
first against the wall, and she remained stuck like a
stamp on an envelope.
Qu'tok looked back down the hall. "Glator," he
called.
Heavy steps sounded, a dark mass pressing its way
through the narrow confines of the hall towards Ranma.
"YEOW!" he cried retreating with the others to the
foyer as Glator approached. They all stood in shock as
Glator rose up as high as he could, glaring menacingly
at them.
"Oyiii! Look at size of pointy-headed man!"
exclaimed Shampoo.
"Ranma," said Nabiki. "I'm going back upstairs.
Uhm, take care of this will you?"
"Uh, yeah you do that, Nabiki," he replied.
Nabiki bolted up the steps.
Glator smacked a fist into his palm. "Glator kill
stupid humans!" he said.
"Well you know what they say about us humans,"
replied Ranma. "Very unpredictable."
Mousse came up beside him producing a pair of
fighting batons from his sleeves. "Yeah, and you know
what I like about big guys like you? It hurts worse
when you finally hit the ground."
Glator let out a growl, lunging towards them.

* * * * *

Nabiki ran into Akane's room panting heavily as
she closed the door shut behind her. The sound of the
fight below vibrated through the walls, spurring her
into action. On the bed, P-chan sat up wondering
curiously what was happening. Nabiki knelt shaking
Akane.
"Oh wake up little sister, please wake up," she
said frantically. Akane was dead to the world, and
Nabiki tried again much harder this time.
"Akane, please. This is no time to want to sleep
your life away. Especially when it might mean mine as
well!"
Akane finally stirred. She slowly opened her
eyes, rubbing the sleep from them. "Nabiki?" she said.
"Get up, Akane!"
Akane sat up. "Where, where's my Guardian?" she
asked searching for Ranma.
"Down stairs Guardianing!"
A loud crash sounded, Akane jerking around towards
the door. "What's happening, Nabiki. Where's Ranma?"
"Down stairs with the others engaged in a major
fight that you don't want any part of."
Ranma's cry sounded, followed by a loud thud that
shook the walls.
"Nabiki, why are they fighting? For that matter
who are they fighting?"
"I don't know, but apparently you are the reason
why,"
"Me?"
"Yes, now come on. We've got to get out of here!"
Akane sat suddenly trembling in fear.
Unconsciously, she placed a hand to her chest, rubbing
it as her breath grew shallow. Nabiki cracked the door
peering out to see if the coast was clear. Still no
sign of the intruders, she turned.
"Akane, let's go!"
"Where are we going?"
Nabiki ran to the window. "Out this way, down the
drain pipe and out through the back gate. It's the
fastest way out of here."
P-chan started squealing, nudging her to get
moving. Akane stood up, pausing to catch her balance
as a wave of dizziness briefly overtook her. Nabiki
came over placing an arm around her.
"Are you all right?" she asked.
"Yeah, just still not awake."
"Well wake up, sister. From the sounds of things,
our side is not doing very well."
Another cry sounded, Ukyo's maybe, a loud crump
echoing through the hall.
"No," said Akane. She started moving towards the
door. "I can't, I can't abandon Ranma and my friends
like this," she said.
"What, are you crazy!" cried Nabiki. She grabbed
hold of an arm tugging her back. "That's why their
down there fighting now. To give us a chance to
escape."
"No! If they're fighting for me, then I'm going
to help them!" shouted Akane, trying desperately to
reach the door handle. "I'm not a coward!"
Abruptly she stopped, expression dropping into a
lost stare.
"You must run!" she said in that strange tremolo
voice again. Nabiki let her go, gapping at her sister
in surprise. Akane placed her hands to her mouth not
believing she had just said that. They stared at each
other for a moment, then Akane turned.
"I'm going to help Ranma," she said darting out
the door.

* * * * *

Ranma pulled himself up from the floor of the
living room, shaking dust and bits of the wall from his
shoulders. Behind him, Mousse battled Glator,
repeatedly hitting him with his batons to no effect.
Glator virtually laughed, blocking a blow to deliver
his own that sent Mousse tumbling across the floor. He
sat up, clearing his eyes and held up one of the
batons; now a shattered splinter of wood.
"Ranma, I think we're going to regret this," said
Mousse.
Ranma yelled, rising up to charge Glator. He
leaped, spinning around to land with both feet on his
chest kicking rapidly. He was partially successful,
Glator staggering back slightly with a growl. Reaching
up, he caught Ranma by an ankle and swung him around
over his head. Ranma cried out as he sailed across the
room, bursting through the partition into the dinning
room. Crumpling into the table, Ranma let out a moan.
Slowly, he sat up peering at his opponent.
"I think we will, Mousse," he finally said rising
to his feet. Mousse stood up, and together they
attacked once more.
Outside in the foyer, Shampoo and Ukyo battled
Qu'tok, Alid and Koo, desperately attempting to keep
anyone from getting up the stairs. Ukyo stood parrying
blows from Qu'tok, his quick sharp jabs tinging loud
off the spatula blade. Behind them, Shampoo battled
Alid and Koo, juking and diving away from the strands
of webbing being shot at her. Alid leaped trying to
pounce on her back, but received a sharp kick to the
stomach smacking up against the wall. A wad of goo
barely streak by Shampoo's head and she rolled away.
Sharply, the Amazon turned and lashed out with a fist
connecting against the side of Koo's head. He let out
a chittering cry staggering back. Pressing her attack,
Shampoo launched a kick. A thread of webbing suddenly
wrapped around her ankle surprising Shampoo.
Immediately, she was jerked to the floor, Alid looping
another strand around her right arm. Tugging with all
her strength, Shampoo struggle to her knees glaring
angrily at him. Another strand caught her left arm,
and the woman quickly found herself trapped between the
two men.
"Ukyo!" cried Shampoo fighting to break free.
Ukyo heard her, backing away from Qu'tok.
Twirling her battle spatula over her head, she forced
him to draw back, then turned bringing the edge of the
blade down on the strands from Alid holding Shampoo.
They broke with a loud snap, Shampoo staggering back
against the wall. Alid was angry, not one to like any
of his food escape him. The handle of the spatula
caught him in the chin and he slumped to the floor.
"Alid!" cried Koo. Shampoo took the opportunity
to snap his strand back into his face. He jerked as it
wound tight around his throat, Shampoo puling him
towards her. A flurry of fist greeted him, and
another of the pirates collapsed to the floor.
The two women turned to face the remaining
opponents. Through the now shattered window to the
living room, Ranma and Mousse suddenly came screaming
out tumbling head first into the wall. Glator
appeared, setting his sights on the two women, and they
drew back.
Krin, watching the battle from behind, frowned as
combat recommenced. This was taking too long for him.
Such resistance from these humans was a surprise in
itself, but now they had to concentrate on finding this
Akane Tendo before M.I.B. relocated them. With
Glator's appearance, the area leading to the stairway
was clear.
"Teq, Binimi, Morea, go up and search the next
level," he ordered. The three quickly raced up the
steps.
Teq bounded out into the upper hall snarling as he
looked around the empty hallway. Voices echoed from
around the corner, growing louder as someone moved
towards him. A short human female appeared, dressed in
pink oversized apparel jerking a leg trying to shake
something free.
"P-chan, will you stop," grumbled Akane. P-chan
growled back, tugging with all of his might to pull her
back to her bed room.
"Akane, please listen to me," Nabiki could be
heard to say.
"No! Ranma needs me down there and--," She
stopped noticing the tall man staring at her from the
other end. Binimi's head appeared over the edge of the
floor.
"That's her, Teq. That's Akane Tendo," she said.
"Come here, human female," said Teq moving towards
her.
P-chan jumped out, squealing angrily determined to
defend Akane. The girl just stood there as if in a
trance, watching the three slowly close. A pair of
hands reached out from around the corner, snatching
Akane from her spot.
"Stop!" raged Teq. He dashed to the end ignoring
P-chan, catching a brief glimpse of Nabiki dragging
Akane through the door of her bedroom. P-chan squealed
loudly at him. He leaped ready to chomp on an ankle,
but Binimi caught him by the scruff of the neck.
"Mmm, lunch," she drooled holding the piglet high
above her open mouth.
Morea slapped P-chan away. "We don't have time
for that, Binimi!" she shouted reminding her of their
task.
She went to help Teq; Binimi pausing briefly to
glare at P-chan. "Sit tight, little one. I'll be back
in just a moment," she said running after her
compatriots. P-chan grumbled then darted down the
steps.
Inside Akane's room, the sisters managed to block
the door with Akane's bookshelf and dresser, propping
anything else loose they could find behind that.
"Akane, open the window!" cried Nabiki pressing up
against the vibrating furniture. A hand broke through
the back of the bookshelf, Nabiki letting out a scream
as it groped around for her.
Akane stood immobile, eyes locked on the door.
"What do they want from me?" she asked fearfully.
Nabiki strained, ducking her head around the
threatening arm. She finally took hold and sank her
teeth into the wrist, hearing a satisfying cry echo
through the air.
"Who cares what they want, just open the window!"
she cried.
The bookshelf cracked and Nabiki quickly retreated
behind Akane as Teq finally forced his way in. He
glared at the two, nursing the bite mark on his arm.
"Who bit me?" he scowled.
"That would be her," replied Nabiki, pointing to
her sister.
Akane's looked at Nabiki in disbelief. The sound
of Teq's growl brought her back around to see him
stalking towards them. Her features slackened, then a
loud piercing shriek filled the air. Nabiki let out a
gurgle, placing her fingers to her ears. Teq howled,
staggering back and crumpled to the ground writhing
about on the floor. Akane stopped and Nabiki stared at
her.
"What is happening to you?" she said.
Akane arched a brow. "I don't know, but it's time
to leave," she said running for the window.
Teq shook his head, looking up across the room.
The two women were scrambling for the window in an
attempt to escape. "Stop!" he shouted leaping to his
feet again. Nabiki turned. Franticly she pulled out
her keychain gripping the trigger of her mugging alarm
and pressed. It's warbled sound stopped Teq and he
doubled over holding his head in pain.
"Hey, stop that!" cried Morea. She pulled herself
clear of the mess at the door and rushed towards them.
"That will be quite enough!"
The woman pulled open her shirt.
"Nabiki, cover your eyes!" called Akane's tremolo
voice. She did and just in time as a bright flash
filled the room. Morea expected to see Nabiki and
Akane lying stunned on the floor. Instead, they stood
peering at her in wonder.
"Huh?" she said, just before a book thrown by
Akane hit Morea in the face sending her to the floor.
Nabiki jumped up on the desk joining Akane
climbing out the window.
"How did you know about that woman, Akane?" asked
Nabiki as she crawled out onto the roof.
"I don't know, and I don't care," replied Akane.
Binimi's entrance made them scramble for the
corner of the building.
"Come on, they're getting away!" said Binimi to
her fallen friends. "You can't tell me you let two
puny human females beat you like this?"
Morea sat up nursing her bruised chin. "Yep,
that's what we're saying," she said.
Teq scrambled to his feet in full rage going for
the window. Peering out, he spotted the two women at
the corner preparing to climb down.
"Now I have you!" he growled climbing out onto the
roof.
"He's coming Akane!" cried Nabiki waving her hands
at her sister to make her move faster.
Akane increased her pace; Nabiki shimmying down
the drainpipe moments before Teq could reach them. He
took a swipe at Nabiki's head barely missing. Reaching
the ground Akane looked up.
"Let go, Nabiki!" she cried. Nabiki was not
arguing at this point, letting go yelling in fear.
Akane caught her as best she could, but they still
ended up on the ground.
"You hurt?" Akane asked.
"No. You?"
Akane shook her head. A growl from above made
them look up to see Teq perched on the edge snarling
angrily down at them with teeth barred. He snapped his
jaws in anticipation then leaped.
Akane and Nabiki screamed scrambling to their
feet, watching in terror as Teq landed nimbly on the
ground. He rounded on them and they began backing
away.
"Akane, what do we do now?" whimpered Nabiki from
behind her sister.
The only thing Akane did was look fearfully at the
house.
"RANMA!" she cried.

* * * * *

Wind rushed past Ranma's head, Glator's heavy fist
streaking over into the floor as he ducked past. Once
again, he and Mousse were squared up against this
walking muscle, raining blows but barely fazing him.
Mousse took the opportunity to leap on Glator's back,
placing what he considered a tight chokehold around his
thick neck. A scowl formed, Glator peering down at the
arms around him, then with a sharp twitch Mousse
slammed up against the ceiling then fell to the floor.
Ranma was about to attack again, when he heard
someone call his name from outside.
"Akane?" he wondered, turning around. That was a
mistake, the next thing Ranma knew he was crashing
through the front door flopping to a stop in the middle
of the walkway. From around the left corner Akane and
Nabiki ran at full stride, Teq loping hot on their
heels chasing them around the trees.
"Ranma!" Akane cried again, and he staggered to
his feet.
"YO, guys. It's time to regroup!" called Ranma to
the others.
Ukyo and Mousse wasted no time darting out the
shattered entrance, Shampoo retreating close behind
them. The strands of webbing from Alid and Koo caught
her by the ankles again, Shampoo slamming painfully
down to the ground. She let out a strained grunt
struggling to get up, and an odd tug of war ensued.
Qu'tok, Glator, Morea, Binimi stalked out across
the grounds after the team ready to end this fight.
Krin stood watching them, mildly amused by what was
going on.
"Qu'tok, will this take any longer," he called.
"We'll have them dead in a moment, Krin," replied
Qu'tok.
Krin nodded, casually glancing over to Teq.
Apparently this was the Akane female he sought, pressed
up against the surrounding wall moments from capture.
His grin quickly melted away as Teq pounced only to
grasp nothing but air as Akane jinxed to one side. Her
fist flew with blinding speed, Teq's head resembling
the business end of a jackhammer at full speed before
he crumpled to the ground.
"Well it's about time you did that!" Nabiki
scolded her sister.
Teq shook his head and tried again.
WHAP!
POP, POP, POP, POP, POP!
KICK!
Face down on the ground, Teq moaned holding his
head as Akane took stance ready to deliver more.
Krin's brow's furrowed in annoyance. He told Binimi to
help Teq before anymore damage could be done.
"So, we meet again, human female," slurred Binimi
slinking towards Akane and Nabiki. A short flick of
her tounge made both of them cringe, retreating towards
the corner.
Meanwhile, Shampoo was quickly loosing her battle
with Alid and Koo. More strands looped around her arms
and body, the two men carefully reeling her towards
them.
"Now remember Alid," said Koo. "Play your prey.
Let them tire out before finishing the twining."
"Will you stop with your banter and help me subdue
this wild human," snapped Alid.
They increased their pull, the strands straining
tight. Suddenly, an umbrella sliced its way through
them with a loud sharp tick. Shampoo fell back along
with the two men, surprised by this turn of events.
Krin started, turning to see who threw it,
receiving a sharp kick to the chin that sent him
rolling across the grounds. Standing at the entrance,
Ryoga finished buttoning up his shirt, glaring angrily
down at Krin. Behind him Kasumi pulled the last bits
of webbing from her hair and shoulders, searching for
her sisters. All the combatants paused as Krin angrily
stood up.
"Okay, whoever you are," said Ryoga. "This
fight's over if you know what is good for you."
Krin's chest heaved. "You dare to hit me, human."
"Oh yes, and I plan to do much more of that too."
Ranma took advantage of the interruption to gather
the others in a protective line between Akane and her
attackers.
"Hey, Ryoga," he called. "'Bout time you showed
up."
"Sorry I'm late. Had to find my clothes. Looks
like you guys have had your hands full."
"Yeah, this one's pretty bad."
Krin's cry broke their conversation. "Glator,
kill this insignificant worm!" he shouted pointing at
Ryoga.
"Go call the police, Kasumi," Ryoga said preparing
to defend himself.
Glator threw a punch, cracking the concrete where
Ryoga had stood. Several rapid punches hit the giant
in the chest, then Ryoga leaped back staring up at him.
A short pause followed, Ryoga suddenly grimacing as he
shook his hands.
"What the hell are you made out of!" he shouted.
Ukyo shook her head. "You know what this means,"
she said to the others.
"Right," replied Ranma. "Nabiki, Akane head for
the gates. We'll cover you."
The four charged resuming the melee.
Nabiki and Akane ran, but before they got to the
front gates, the two doors burst open. Tatewaki and
Kodachi stepped inside.
"My Fair Akane!" called Tatewaki looking around
the grounds.
"Tatewaki!" cried Nabiki.
"Oh damn," said Kodachi with some disdain. "It's
the scheming witch Nabiki and her uncharming sister.
Alas, still alive."
"Stop your bitching and get in here and help
them!" shouted Nabiki, pointing to the fight.
Both Kuno's started slightly then ran to join in
the fray. Konatsu and Tsubasa appeared. It took no
prompting for them to spring into the fight. Akane
stood at the doors pausing to watch Ranma engage Krin
one on one. A hand touched her shoulder and she let
out a scream, spinning around with fist up.
"Akane," said T catching them effortlessly. He
looked up shocked by the battle going on, then Jay and
Elle arrived.
"Yo, T. (Huff, Huff) You guys got some running
children in Japan!" said Jay.
"Oh my God, Jay!" said Elle pointing to the fight.
"Whoa, this looks bad!"
Shampoo tumbled to a stop at their feet. She
shook off the pain, letting out an angry warcry
scrambling back into the battle.
"Like I said," commented Jay.
In the midst of the fight, Krin smacked Ranma
away, turning to attack the next nearest opponent. His
eyes caught the tell-tale suits of M.I.B., and he
snarled.
"Qu'tok, disengage. M.I.B.!" he shouted.
The mere mention of the name broke the pirates
from their present situation, retreating as fast as
they could for the side of the Tendo home. The gang
was about to pursue when Qu'tok and Krin produce
blasters.
"Everybody down!" shouted T drawing his weapon.
Krin fired, Jay and Elle diving for cover as T
traded shots with him. Ion burst scorched the trees,
punched large holes into the walls scattering debris
across the lawn. A loud crash sounded, Glator charging
though the back wall allowing the rest of the pirates
to escape. With Qu'tok covering his departure, Krin
glared angrily at the group of people cowering
protectively on the ground.
"This isn't over yet, you human scum!" he shouted,
disappearing out the breech. Qu'tok ran after him, and
an ominous quiet followed.
Slowly, everyone looked up lost for words.
"You guys alright?" Jay asked them.
Ranma turned over on his back, staring up at him
in disbelief.
"Alright? What the hell happened!" he said.
"Don't worry about it," answered Jay. "We're
going to take care of it, trust me."
"Trust you?" Ranma lay back down, not know who or
what to trust anymore.
At the front door, Kasumi appeared holding a
wireless phone in her hand.
"Ryoga, I've called . . . the . . . police?"
Her voice trailed away as she gazed around at the
surrounding carnage.
"My goodness," gasped Kasumi, placing a hand to
her cheek

* * * * *

Most of the gang sifted through the damaged
portions of the Tendo home, some of them still stunned,
the others amazed they were still alive. In the front
yard a heated debate was going on between the three
M.I.B. agents concerning what to do now that Krin has
escaped them once again.
"We can't leave these people alone," said Elle.
"Krin will come back that's for sure, and when he does
he's not going to take any chances."
"So what can we do?" replied Jay. "Post a guard
here? Remember there are only three of us right now."
"We can try to contact Zed and ask for more
reinforcements," suggested T.
"Krin will surely try again before they arrive,"
said Elle.
"Okay, okay, we need to gain some time. The
problem is where do we keep them?"
T rubbed his chin in thought for a moment.
"M.I.B. Tokyo can be used, although in it's current
condition not the safest place."
"Yo, T. You wanna take them back to M.I.B.?"
"Sure, why not?" said Elle. "They can see the
light later once things die down."
"Boy are you guys asking for trouble, and if the
Zedmeister finds out, all of us might just be seen the
light."
"Why not just Akane?" said T. The other two
pondered the idea.
Jay shook his head. "Still doesn't save the rest
of them," he said. "Krin and his boys might just come
back to even the score like Elle said."
"Damn. If we only knew what Akane knows that Krin
is after so badly," muttered Elle.
Elle suddenly arched a brow. She turned, looking
into the home then gazed back at T and Jay.
"Let's take them all," she said.
"We thought of that, Elle," Jay started to remind
her, but she held up a hand.
"Yeah, but let's put them to good use."
"You mean recruit them?" asked T.
"Why not. We are undermanned, out gunned, and
they did hold their own against Krin and his pirates."
"Barely, just barely," said Jay. He paused, then
chuckled a bit. "I like it," he said with a smile.
"So do I," added T.
"Give them the right tools, Akane Tendo is
protected and we get help tracking down Krin," finished
Elle.
"Sounds reasonable," said Jay.
"Only one problem," said T.
"What's that?"
"What if they do not go with the idea?"
"Naw, that ain't going to happen. Once that big
mouth Ranma finds out how much trouble his womans' in,
he'll be online before you can say `jump'."
Elle swatted Jay on the arm. "Lay off Ranma," she
said. "He's not a bad person."
"He's a punk, and how would you know?"
Elle just leveled a stern eye at him.
"Okay, but the first syllable of smack from him
and I'm going to put my foot up his ass."
T laughed. "You humor me, Jay. Let's go and
present our proposal to the new recruits."

* * * * *

Gathering everyone up, T stood before them in the
living room hoping they would understand the situation
and go along without any troubles.
"Ah, where to begin," he said thinking.
"Start with that creep, Krin," said Ranma.
"Yes. Inentimus Krin. He and his people are
pirates."
"Like in movies?" asked Shampoo.
"More on a grander scale, miss," he answered.
"Krin is wanted for a series of crimes, including
murder here on this planet."
"What do you mean `here on this planet'?" said
Ryoga.
"He's not from Earth."
An uncomfortable silence passed, the gang trading
skeptical looks between each other.
"Yeah," trailed Ranma.
"So what does this `Krin' want with Akane, and why
are the Yakuza so interested in her?" asked Tatewaki.
"Yo, T. I think you should tell them who we are
first," said Jay.
T agreed. "We are not Yakuza, Mister Kuno. We
are . . . a law enforcement agency of sorts."
"Insurance Reps my foot," said Tsubasa. "I wasn't
buying it for a second."
"Sorry about the deception. Anyway, we monitor
extraterrestrial activities here on Earth."
Another pause and exchange of doubting looks
followed. Nabiki let out a light snicker, hiding it
quickly behind her hand.
"And, so we are (snicker) just another bus stop in
the universe, is that it?" she said.
The mocking tone only irritated T. "No," he
replied firmly. "WE are a planet just like any other
planet in the galaxy. Earth happens to be one of the
more popular places to visit."
"Right," said Ranma. He turned around to the
others. "They're just as crazy as this Krin guy."
Jay stepped up next to T. "Now hold on one
minute!" he shouted. "I know you people aren't going
to tell me you've seen folks acting the way those
people were acting?"
"Well, we could say we've seen a lot of strange
things," replied Mousse.
"A lot of strange," added Shampoo nodding.
"In fact some of us here would fall into the
`strange' category," commented Ryoga.
Jay stared at them in disbelief. "Elle, I don't
think these kids believe in Aliens," he finally said.
"That's not true," said Konatsu. "We just have
doubts about your story that's all."
"It's not exactly a sound one," said Kodachi.
Akane suddenly stood up, turning to face them.
She chewed on her bottom lip nervously, then spoke. "I
believe them. There is something strange about Krin
and his followers."
"Yeah, like the one he kept calling `Bikini', or
`Bubbly', or something like that," said Ranma.
"I believe them too," added Kasumi casting her lot
with her sister.
Ukyo chimed in. "Got to pitch my vote with them,"
she said. "Just look at my spatula."
She held up the warped utensil, a disfigured
imprint of Glator's face in several spots of the blade.
Ranma turned back around. "Okay, so what does . .
. hey, you guys have a name. A true name?"
"Men In Black, but most of the time we just use
M.I.B.," answered Elle.
Ranma mouth the abbreviation around. "It flows,"
he said. "Now, what does M.I.B. want with A-kan-e?"
A sharp kick to the thigh had Ranma grimacing in
pain; Jay laughing at the sight. T waited until he
settled then continued.
"Krin will be back, and when he does he probably
will not wait to eliminate all of you to capture
Akane."
"Will Krin kill her?" asked Kodachi, receiving a
sharp slap for Tatewaki on the back of the head.
"I don't know. If Akane has told us everything
she already knows, then most likely yes."
"But I don't know what they want," said Akane.
She sat down closer to Ranma, hugging an arm tight.
This time Ranma did not object.
"Let Krin come," he said face set in
determination. "I'll pound him into grist."
"I don't think you, or anyone else here can
protect Akane right now," said Elle.
"Who says!"
"These bruises and lumps all over our bodies,"
answered Ryoga.
"He's right, Ranma," said Ukyo. "We were getting
our butts kicked until M.I.B. showed up."
Ranma had to face facts knowing very well that
today was a near run thing. He looked down at Akane
only to find her staring up at him fear in her eyes.
"Don't worry," he said patting her hands tenderly.
"I won't let Krin get you."
"I know. You're my Guardian," she replied.
"There she goes with that `Guardian' stuff again,"
said Ryoga. "Akane, what has come over you?"
T interrupted before the bickering could start.
"Please, please everyone," he said regaining their
attention. "Now I know this is sudden, but we have
come to the conclusion that the best way to protect
Akane, and bring in Krin is for all of you to join
M.I.B."
Silence. A very long silence that had all three
agents wondering nervously what the group might be
thinking. It was Ranma who responded first, the slow
blink of his eyes preceding his words.
"So you want us to become like you, is that it?"
he asked.
"In a small word, yes," answered T.
"Let us warn you about a few things though," said
Elle. "First, normally agents would have their total
past removed from them. Birthday, Government
Registration, Work Licenses--,"
"Even our financial status?" asked Tatewaki.
"Everything."
Kodachi sneered. "I don't know if I would like
that, big brother," she said.
"It is a dark thought," Tatewaki replied.
"But this situation is different," said Jay.
"Seen's you folks are involved and know too much
already, what we can do is finish this Krin thing out
to it's end. Once we've beat his butt into the dirt,
then you can make a choice to stay or go."
"And if we stay?" asked Nabiki.
"Like I said, you disappear from the face of the
Earth," replied Elle.
The gang paused, then turned huddling close
together in low conference for a minute.
"What if we say no?" Ukyo suddenly asked. "What
then?"
"Then you forget," said T, reaching into his
jacket. "With this." He pulled out his Nuralizer
holding it up for them all to see.
"Just like that, huh?" said Mousse.
"Its that simple."
More conferencing followed, then they faced the
agents again.
"I don't know," Ukyo said, uncertainty in her
voice. "I've worked too hard getting Uuchans where it
is now to just quit."
"You're really asking a lot from us," Kasumi
added.
"Yeah, but what other choice do we have?" Ryoga
said to them.
"Shampoo not want to quit job, or forget Amazon
Tribe in China."
Tsubasa shrugged. "Well our jobs are gone anyway,
now that Uuchans is to--,"
Konatsu clasped a hand across Tsubasa's mouth
hoping he cut him off before Ukyo could hear. It was
to late; Ukyo Kuonji slowly turning around towards
them.
"What-about-my-restaurant is to, Tsubasa?" she
said voice strained.
"Um, you see Ukyo," began Konatsu. He looked
perplexed, something not normal for the man. Nothing
more needed to be said, Ukyo taking a few steps back
towards the exit.
"No," she moaned.
"Hold on, Ukyo. There's nothing more you can do
now," said Elle, but Ukyo was not listening. She spun
and dashed out the room.
"Ukyo, wait!" cried Tsubasa running after her.
The rest of the gang got up, rushing after them.
"Yo, man!" cried Jay. "Where y'all goin?"
"After Ukyo," replied Ranma. "If Krin is still
around, she might end up in his hands, or did you not
think about that?"
"Say what!" Jay shouted, but Ranma had disappeared
out the door.
"He's right," said Elle. "We'd better go after
her."
"Man! More of this running stuff. T, what do you
people feed your kids over here?"
"Good food," replied T with a smile.

* * * * *

BWWAAAAA!
Jay grimaced, shirking back slightly as Ukyo knelt
on her hands and knees, crying unceasingly in the
center of Uuchans's shattered dinning room.
Occasionally, she'd reach out whimpering as she picked
up a broken chair or cracked bowl then let out another
long wail.
The rest of the gang wandered about, and with the
exception of the Kuno siblings, Tsubasa and Konatsu,
astonishment well written on their faces.
"Boy, did Krin and his pirates do a number on this
place," commented Ryoga.
Shampoo and Mousse examined what was left of the
wall facing the side street, noting the burned edges
marking the exit holes.
"What did this guy use here?" said Mousse to T
standing next to him.
"A pair of Photon Hand-Cannons," T replied. "Very
nasty pieces of weaponry."
"You can say that again. There's no way this can
be replaced without tearing down the entire building."
"You think that bad, look at holes in street,"
Shampoo said gesturing outside.
Another of Ukyo's wails brought them back into the
restaurant. Kasumi knelt next to the distraught woman,
hugging her tight as she cried. Ranma gazed down at
them, angered by what had happened to one of his best
friends.
"I guess this is all my fault," said Konatsu. "If
we had just told them what they wanted to know, if I
had not kicked that woman into the office, Ucchan's
would still be intact."
"No one's at fault here," replied Jay. "My guess
is Krin would have killed all of you to keep us from
finding out he was here or where he was going."
"Holding out was the best option," added Elle.
"And speaking of that woman, Konats m'man. Gimme
some dap on that kick you made. That was something
else."
Konatsu looked lost. "Dap?" he questioned.
"Yeah, you know. Dap."
"No, I do not know."
Jay held up a fist telling Konatsu to do the same.
He brought his fist down on top of Konatsu's. "Now
you," he said.
Konastu hit Jay's fist. Rapping his knuckles on
Konatsu's, Jay grinned. "Gonna make a brother out you
yet," he finished, chuckling lightly.
"A `Brother'?" said Konatsu. Jay rolled his eyes
up towards the ceiling.
"Hey, Jay," Ranma called. "All the playing aside.
You can count me in for M.I.B.."
"Me too," Akane chimed in standing up next to him.
Elle nodded. "Okay. So what about the rest of
you?"
"I'll go along with this for now," said Ryoga.
"Somebody's got to protect Akane."
"Hey, hey, you better be watching your own butt
when Krin catches up with us again," snapped Ranma.
"Oh Saotome, you have such grand delusions," said
Tatewaki. "I, Tatewaki Kuno will honor this M.I.B. and
defend the fair Akane to my dying breath."
"Does he always talk like that?" Elle whispered to
Shampoo.
The Amazon nodded. "Unfortunate, no?"
"I suppose this means the rest of you will assist
us?" asked T.
Hesitant looks followed between the others before
a unanimous agreement was reached.
"Oh you can bet I'm in," growled Ukyo. "This In-
Your-Mouth Krin is dead. You hear me? Dead. Dead,
dead, dead, dead, DEAD!" she raged slamming her fist
repeatedly into the floor.
Jay laughed. "You hear her, Elle. In-Your-Mouth
Krin. Heh, Heh, Heh, Heh, Heh. I like it!"
"I don't think Krin is going to share your
sentiments."
"Let's hope not." Jay turned to T. "What now?"
"Back to M.I.B. Tokyo," answered T. "First we get
our new members properly attired, then we hunt down
Krin and settle this thing once and for all."








Here's a small rough of a picture I'm doing for the cover...
[Image]



Newsgroup




< br>











Part Four

Tell me, have you seen her?

The interior of D'skta' rumbled from the resonance
of Krin's voice as he raged at his band of pirates.
Livid with fury, he threw things about the room not
caring if it broke equipment, or hurt anyone standing
in the way.
"You idiots!" he roared tossing another chair into
a console. "Small insignificant puny humans, WEAK
insignificant humans and yet we are unable to capture
one female. One, just one!"
Teq, cringing behind one of the far consoles for
his life, dared a brief peek up. "Krin, we did the
best we could!" he shouted.
Krin's eyes flashed with renewed fury. His chest
swelled and it was a wonder to the pirates how his
current covering was holding up against such strain. A
threatening finger pointed towards Teq.
"You. You had this Tendo female within reach, and
what happens? She's laying you flat on the ground,
TWICE!"
Teq slid back down behind the console.
"And you two!" raged Krin, whirling up towards the
overhead where Alid and Koo perched fearfully.
"Another sloppy show of work! I should disintegrate
you both."
Alid smacked his brethren on the head. "See I
told you playing around would cause nothing but
trouble."
"Ow, hey watch that," Koo said, rubbing the spot.
There's more than one set of eyes up here."
"Both of you get down here!"
The two pressed further up against the bulkhead.
"Uh, we kind'a like it up here," came Alid's timid
reply.
"And it's safer," added Koo.
Perched in a chair before the computer consoles,
Morea peered over the high backrest. "Krin, please
calm down," she pleaded. The only reply was a narrow
dark gaze, the corner of Krin's lips curling up.
Behind them, Qu'tok and Binimi finished removing
the regenerating wraps applied to Glator's hands,
listening and enduring the terror with calm attitudes.
Used to seeing their leader's rage, Qu'tok gave
Glator's hands a quick examination, finding them both
back to normal.
"Shouting at us won't do you any good, Krin," he
said. "We all screwed up. All of us."
Krin turned, and for a brief moment held the
notion to shoot his insolent subling in his mind.
Remembering how valuable he was to him, Krin forced it
back.
"So what would you have me do, Qu'tok? I can't
rely upon my people to do their jobs."
"You were present yourself."
Strong words that had both Glator and Binimi
inching away from the possible blast site. Krin set
his eyes on Qu'tok, then let out a heavy sigh.
"True," he finally said through strained lips.
Low puffs of relief emitted from Qu'tok fully
aware that he had yet again avoided serious harm. "My
suggestion is we concentrate on relocating Akane Tendo,
and carefully now that M.I.B. is back."
For the moment all tension faded from Krin.
Sitting in a chair, the pirate leader rested his head
in his hands, trying to rub the strain from his
forehead. A pair of hands started massaging his
shoulders, Binimi peering over him.
"We need to regroup," she said. "Tendo is going
nowhere for now."
"The female I am not worried about. It is M.I.B..
Very troublesome, more so on this planet than any
other."
"Then we must eliminate them quickly, Krin," said
Qu'tok. "The longer we wait, the sooner the Regent's
forces come in search of him."
"I am aware of that, Qu'tok." Krin pondered their
next move. With the schedule majority out of kilter,
M.I.B. alerted to their presence, time was running out
for the pirates.
"Krin, you think M.I.B. might have taken Tendo
back to their headquarters here?" Koo suggested.
Krin sat back, turning around in surprise. "That
might have been the brightest thing I've ever heard you
say, Koo."
"One can only get lucky once," commented Alid.
"So if they did, do we repeat our visit?" asked
Morea.
"Not with M.I.B. alerted to us."
Glator growled low. "It does not matter," he
snarled, smacking a fist into a palm. "Glator want to
kill M.I.B. scum for what they did!"
"There will be no attack," replied Krin firmly.
He thought a moment, looking to Qu'tok.
"Surveillance?"
"I have several listeners in the warming chamber.
Give me some time and I'll be ready to plant them."
"Good. There is time enough for that." He
chuckled slightly, relishing the notion of defeating
his erstwhile opponents.
"M.I.B. will make a mistake, and we will be there
to catch them," he said.
"Then we'll slaughter them?" asked Teq.
"To the last being," replied Krin.
He pictured the event in his mind, thinking how
much of a wonderful slaughter it would be.

* * * * *

M.I.B. Tokyo, 4:35 PM,

Ties were meant for Westerners thought Ranma,
struggling with the black tie he so vainly tried to
make up in the mirror. Another tug and it collapsed
again drawing a sigh from him. Next to Ranma, Tatewaki
finished fixing himself up, straightening his dark
suit, combing back his dark locks of hair. Catching
Ranma's frustrated attempts, he grinned.
"Face it, Saotome. You are just to common for
such esteemed apparel," he said.
Ranma glared angrily at his reflection. Taking
the tie, he furiously started over.
"Hey, don't be knocking me because these M.I.B.
jokers like gajin attire."
"The suits are proper nowadays, Saotome. Shows
how much you pay attention to your surroundings."
A pause, Ranma slowly looking over to Tatewaki
with a frown. "I'm not totally ignorant of my
`surroundings', Kuno. Just that a suit does not allow
much maneuverability in a fight."
"And how would you know?"
"Get off my back!" scowled Ranma resuming his
battle with the tie.
Tatewaki laughed turning to join the rest of the
guys in the locker room. Most of them were just a bout
ready to go, all dressed in the standard M.I.B. black
suit and tie. That was all but Mousse. It looked like
he had traded his normal white Chinese gown for one
completely black except for a white collar held closed
by one small black button.
"Where did you get this?" asked Tatewaki.
"My outfit? T managed to get the computer in
wardrobe to fix this up for me. Neat, huh?"
"You stand out, but it will do. Where are your
glasses?"
Mousse flicked a wrist, his coke-bottle thick
lenses sliding into his hands. Placing them on his
face, he smiled.
"Nice," said Tatewaki, "but I meant the shades."
"Thought of that too." Tapping the rim with a
finger, Mousse's glasses immediately darkened.
"Now that is neat," said Ryoga.
Just then Jay entered through the door. "You guys
about ready?" he asked.
"Most of us," replied Tatewaki. "Saotome still
cannot figure out the mechanics of making a tie."
"Is that so? Yo, Sat-ome, I gotta field manual on
that if you want to read it."
"I don't need it from you either, and its Saotome,
buster!"
Jay laughed. "Okay we need to get moving. T's
wait for us in Central so we can get this show on the
road."
"Ranma let's go," called Tsubasa as the rest of
the guys headed out. "We can fix the tie later."
"I'm coming," grumbled Ranma. Snatching up his
jacket, he rushed to catch up with them.
Not much had changed since the last time Jay and
Elle were in M.I.B. Tokyo Central Control. Ringo did
manage to get a few more of the computers up but the
mainframe, and more importantly primary communications
to M.I.B. Headquarters were still down. T stood over
one console working the controls, trying to adjust the
last remaining full screen monitor's picture. At the
sound of their steps, he turned around.
"Ah, good you are here," he said.
"Yeah, man. M.I.B. starting to fill up again,"
replied Jay. He looked around. "SO where are the
ladies?"
"Elle said they are on their way up."
"The ladies are here," Elle's voice called from
the main entrance.
The suits fit well on the girls. Out of the six
only Ukyo, Nabiki, and Akane followed Elle's lead
wearing the women's styled black dress suit. Kodachi
and Kasumi chose dresses, Kasumi's more conservative,
Kodachi preferring the sailor style uniforms found in
most schools. Both were black with wide white collars,
black bowties held together by a gold clasp. Shampoo
though gained the most attention. Her more than needed
to be high mini-skirt accenting her slim and well toned
legs. Again, black with a thin white strip along the
edge where the front clasps were, she was a sight to
behold.
"Ah, good. Now M.I.B. is starting to feel whole
again," said T.
"Man if this is the way our Tokyo branch is
running, sign me up," said Jay.
The girls laughed walking over to join them. T
felt his confidence returning, the addition of their
new members adding strength to the already weak
position.
"You all look fine. Did everyone get issued a
pair of glasses?"
Dark shades were put on, T nodding approvingly.
"Excellent. First thing we're going to is give you a
quick rundown on the equipment you will be using."
Reaching into his jacket, T produced his
nuralizer. "This is what we use to make people forget
what they've seen."
"You use a camera?" asked Konatsu.
"Uh, no, Konatsu. This is a Neuralizer."
"Pretty effective piece of equipment I must say,"
added Jay.
"Yes, this is not something to be playing around
with," continued T. Without warning he turned the
Neuralizer towards Jay. There was a bright flash, Jay
immediately going stiff staring into empty space.
"T, what are you doing!" exclaimed Elle.
"Harmless demonstration," replied T. "As you can
see, Agent Jay is completely stunned, ready for
suggestion."
Ranma's face lit up. "You mean we can tell him to
do something and he'll do it?"
T hesitated, worried about the sudden change in
Ranma. "Yes, and don't you say anything, Ranma," he
answered.
Ranma gawfed. "Phfft, me?" he said innocently, a
devious leer on his face. "I wouldn't do anything like
that."
"Stop your lying," said Akane. She pulled him
away before any trouble could start.
"Thank you, Akane," said T. "Anyway, when we are
around people who happen to have seen our actions, we
must sanitize them. Your glasses will protect you from
the effects so have them with you at all times."
"And this `Nuralizer' works on anyone?" asked
Kodachi.
"Yes."
Elle picked up the scheming looks filtering
through their new members, quick looks shooting towards
Ranma and Akane. "T, maybe we should not have told
them about this," she said.
"Hmm," sounded T.
Turning to Jay, T told him that nothing happened
and he was alright. Jay's eyes fluttered, then he
relaxed looking around. "What, did I . . . did I fall
asleep or something?"
"No, T flash you," said Shampoo.
"What!" he exclaimed rounding on him. "Yo, T.
What'cha doing giving me the flash, man?!"
"It was just for demonstration, Jay. No harm
done."
"No harm done? Man, you want to be flashing
anybody, don't use me. Flash Sitonme or somebody else,
okay?"
"That Saotome, buster!" shouted Ranma, barely held
back by Ryoga and Mousse.
Jay waved him off. "Man, if I start dancing the
Funky Chicken for no reason at all, I'm gonna be bust'n
me some ass."
"Relax, Jay," said Elle. "Nothing was done to
you. To bad. That would have been a good time to--,"
"Elle!"
Elle and T both started laughing at the notion.
Ignoring Jay's frustrated gaze, T went on with is
indoctrination.
"Those watches you are wearing also have trackers
in them. As long as you have them on your person we
can follow your every move. They also act as Personal
Identifiers for access into M.I.B. spaces. Please, do
not lose them."
"This is all fine and dandy, but what about Krin
and his pirates?" Tatewaki said.
"What do you mean?" asked T.
"We barely stood our ground against them only to
find out that they could have vaporized us in a moments
notice."
"I think what Kuno's saying here is, do we get any
weapons?" Nabiki said.
"Oh yes, of course we will give you something to
defend yourselves with. First, we must check you out
on the range."
"Let's get going then," commented Ranma.
"Agent Jay will get you familiarized with our
arsenal. Jay."
Jay stepped up. "And I don't want to hear any
silly talk from anybody, especially you Romana."
"Why can't you get my name straight? It Ranma.
Ranma Saotome!"
"Yeah, yeah, yeah. It'll get to me eventually,"
replied Jay. "Let's go."
Elle started to follow, but T placed a hand on her
shoulder.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"Nothing. I just want you to help me go over what
we have on Krin."
"You aren't worried about Jay being alone with
them?"
T smiled. "Jay will be alright."
Elle arch a brow. I don't know, T."
"Don't worry. Come, let us get started."

* * * * *

The Firing Range beneath the expanse of M.I.B.
Tokyo was designed to contain the energy burst and
other assorted discharges agents would fire from the
weapons at their disposal. Not one sound could be
heard up in the surrounding streets maintaining their
secrecy.
In the firing booths, the gang practiced shooting
the standard M.I.B. pistols at targets down range, Jay
walking the line advising and correcting their styles
as needed.
"If you're going to hit your target, you've got to
aim at it first," scolded Jay at Ryoga. His target had
nary a hit on it, the surrounding berm smoldering from
ion blast.
"Hey, I'm doing the best I can, Jay!" said Ryoga,
snapping off another shot. It hit wide just like the
rest. Jay shook his head.
"Jay," called Ukyo from her booth next to them.
"You can't really blame Ryoga for missing so much.
He's very prone to misdirection."
"I am not!" Ryoga shouted. He fired again with
the same result.
Jay placed a friendly hand on his shoulder. "Yo,
man. I think you might need to use something a bit
more . . . wider."
"We're just lucky he can't turn around and hit
us," commented Ranma.
Jay walked down to his booth noting how well Ranma
was shooting. A tight grouping at the midsection made
him nod approvingly. The kid's not bad, he thought.
"Okay folks, let's all gather around here so I can
show you some of the other toys we have to play with."
The gang holstered their weapons mustering around
Jay behind the firing line. Opening a locker, Jay
pulled out a large chrome-colored rifle, it's tri-
barreled cylinder gleaming beneath the lights.
"Pulse Energy rifle," said Jay. He powered it up,
a low whine sounding as it came to life. The barrels
cycled before coming to a stop.
"What's that for, killing tanks?" asked Tsubasa.
"Something like that," answered Jay. He handed it
to Tatewaki telling him to pass it around. The rifle
was heavy, but not unwieldy. Tatewaki hefted it up and
down.
"Feels sturdy," he said. "Not like my sword, but
manageable."
"That'll take down most badguys we'll encounter,"
said Jay.
Nabiki, grunting beneath the weight, shook her
head. "You want to . . . ugh, you want to capture
them, or disintegrate them?" she said, quickly passing
it over to Konatsu.
"Depends on the situation." Jay pulled another
weapon out of the locker. "Now this is called a Noisy
Cricket," he continued, holding up an extremely small
pistol. It reminded them all of a small keychain
ornim1te, several snickers passing through the group.
"I know, I know. I thought the same thing myself,
but you'd be surprised a how much power this thing
has."
"Yeah, I'll bet it just terrorizes the bugs to
death," cracked Ranma.
A frown creased Jay's face, then he smiled. "I
was hoping you'd flap those gums of yours, Satome!
Bring your funny ass on up here."
Ranma boldly walked up front, taking the miniature
pistol from Jay. He stepped into the nearest booth
ready to fire.
"You best be ready to get your stupid self
rocked," said Jay.
"By this little thing? Feh!"
Jay snickered. He motioned for the rest of the
group to move out of the line of backfire, stepping to
one side. "Don't say I didn't warn you, Sat-man."
Ranma took aim. Pausing, he looked back at Jay.
"It's Saotome, Jay," he said.
"It's about to be Mud," he answered.
Ranma squeezed the trigger. "Not a--,
AAAAAAHHHHHHH!"
A loud burst sounded, the pistol sailed up into
the air, Ranma recoiling straight back across the room
into the back wall. Jay extend a hand catching the
Noisy Cricket in his palm. Laughing, he gazed at Ranma
sitting stunned on the floor.
"So, Mud. Think the `bugs' are going to be the
only things scared about this now?"
Ranma blinked, cutting his eyes around at the
humored gazed around him. "Nope," he replied.
Akane knelt next to him. "That's what you get for
being a smarty, smarty," she teased.
"Thanks. Think you can get me some aspirin?"
Ryoga suddenly walked up to Jay. He glanced down
at the pistol, looked briefly at Jay, then picked it
up.
"LOOK OUT, RYOGA'S GOT A GUN!" exclaimed Mousse.
A flurry of bodies followed, Jay starting in
surprise as everyone scrambled for cover.
"Hey, man what's wrong with you guys?"
Cowering beneath a chair, Tsubasa inched it up.
"You saw how he was shooting earlier. That thing and
him not standing in a booth equals danger."
"Ryoga, give that thing back to Jay!" shouted
Nabiki.
Waving her off, Ryoga turned pointing the pistol
down range. He snapped off three burst in quick
succession hitting the target dead center. Astonished
eyes slowly rose up, the gang and Jay not believing
what he just did.
"Hmm," sounded Ryoga examining the pistol again.
"Light, needs some weight, but I like it," he said.
"What's next?"
"I think we're done here," answered Jay. He
looked the gang over. "Boy I tell'ya you folks are
something else. If anything this little experience
will be nothing short of exciting."
"I hope it will be over quick," replied Tatewaki.
"I'd really don't feel too comfortable walking around
looking like some Yakuza thug."
Jay shook his head. "Let's get back up to
Control," he said heading for the door.

* * * * *

Elle panned the overview of Nerima across the
large screen, centering on the area near the foothills
of Fuji. Behind her T reviewed several police reports
from the previous days activities again.
"If Krin landed anywhere it had to be somewhere's
remote," Elle said drawing his attention. She zoomed
in the view, T narrowing his eyes concentrating on the
picture.
"What section is this?" he asked.
"Northwest Nerima. There's a new radio/tele
observatory in this area." She paused arching a brow.
"And not to far from the know crash site your agents
were supposed to investigate."
"I thought so." T figured that any leads would
start here. Tapping in a new search for any reports on
the Onashi Observatory, he found one, but it was not
what he expected.
"Elle, I've got a missing persons report filed
with Tokyo Police concerning several of their staff
members."
Elle swiveled her chair around. "No doubt Krin
struck here to get their disguises."
"This is a long list. We better go take a look."
"Now? It is quite late, T."
"Best time to work."
Elle shrugged looking up at the screen again.
"Okay. I'll take some of our newbies and investigate
the crash site."
"Sounds good. Jay can check the Observatory."
Through the main doors Ringo walked in. The multi-
armed alien walked slowly over to the nearest chair and
sat down. [Hlllikwonk Pakeetod], he rambled.
[Unnory Wakibld?] said T.
[Junty Givlk], answered Ringo.
Elle hung on the silence simply amazed by the
conversation. She'd never gotten over the fascination
of extraterrestrial lifeforms on the planet, yet alone
actually interfacing with them.
T noticed the expression on her face. "Ringo said
he repaired Ucchan's and all of the damage around it."
"Already? No wonder he's tired."
"Tired? He just came on duty," replied T.
Elle thought it better not to ask for details,
swiveling back around towards the screen. She adjusted
the settings, trying to get a better view of the crash
site and the surrounding area. The screen flashed
dissolving beneath a wash of static. Muttering
angrily, Elle tried to fix the picture with no success.
"Looks like this thing is out again," she said.
[Ooolip?], uttered Ringo. The Gamorian pulled
itself out of the chair and crawled back behind the
console. Several sharp raps followed, a tentacle
briefly snaking over the top to hit several of the
console buttons.
"I hope he can get it back up," Elle said.
"Ringo's the best we have," replied T.
Just then Jay walked in leading the rest of the
group in. "Glad you could join us so soon," said T to
Jay.
"We'd been up here sooner, but we had to stop and
get the Fish some water."
"The Fish?"
Jay pointed to Akane. She held a large thermos in
her arms, drawing what appeared to be water through a
straw at the top. She stopped drinking, raising her
brows at the sudden attention.
"And you want to know the most amazing thing about
this?" said Ukyo. "She has not gone to the restroom
yet."
"So I've got great body control," said Akane.
Everyone stopped, giving Akane an uncomfortable stare.
"Well I do!" she shouted.
"Ah huh," sounded T. "Let's get back to our main
problem, shall we?"
Gazing up at the monitor, T called out in Ringo's
language. The tentacles appeared over the top of the
console drawing several cries from the girls.
"Giant Walking Squid!" cried Shampoo reaching for
her blaster. Jay managed to stop her before she could
pull it out.
"Man, don't be shoot everything that doesn't look
human, girl!" he shouted.
"Who, or what is that?" asked Kodachi.
"This is Ringo," answered T.
The Gamorian pulled himself up to full height and
blinked his three red eyes at them. "[Lilieekiou]!"
Ringo said to Jay.
Jay gave T a light nudge. "Hey man, I'm gonna
assume that means `Jay' in Ringoese?"
T let out a short laugh barely cutting it off
before he lost control. "Uh yes, Jay."
"Naw, T. Don't be giving me that stuff!"
T let it pass. "Ringo is our last remaining tech
so be nice to him."
Stepping out from behind the console, Ringo
babbled something to Elle. Although she did not
understand, she guessed it had something to do with the
controls. Tapping a few buttons, the screen refocused.
"Thank you, Ringo," she said.
Ranma and the rest of the gang stood around Ringo,
trying to accept what their eyes were telling them.
Kasumi was the first to draw up enough nerve to touch
him, examining the poorly wrapped bandage around one of
his injured limbs.
"Oh, you poor thing," she said undoing it. "This
needs to be changed. I'll bet your wounds are no
better than when you first got injured."
She led Ringo over to a chair and sat him down.
"First Aid kit?" Kasumi asked T. He pointed to a box
on the wall, Kasumi heading for it.
"Such a compassionate person," said T.
"It comes natural," replied Ranma. "So, uh, what
now?"
"Yes, Krin. Must not forget him," replied T. He
directed their attention to the screen. "This is where
the first spaceship might have crashed. Now--,"
"E'scuse me," said Nabiki. "First?"
"Oh I did let that slip, didn't I."
"You mean that asshole Krin was chasing somebody?"
said Ryoga.
"Yeah, but we don't know who," replied Jay.
"That's where Akane fits into this picture," said
Elle.
"I do?"
Elle turned. "The old woman, remember?"
Akane nodded. Slowly, she turned away staring
down at the floor. Her expression seemed strange event
to Ranma, somehow distant as if she were not the same
person. Taking a brief draw from the straw, Akane
faced them again.
"She was a nice old lady," she said.
"But what did she tell you?" asked Ranma.
"Nothing. Nothing at all."
Ranma wanted to believe her, but something was not
right in the tone of her voice. He was so used to all
of her small quarks and mannerisms that even a slight
change could be felt. Akane was holding back that much
he was sure of.
"Okay," he said, wisely not pressing the issue for
the moment. He'd speak to Kasumi and Elle later on
about it. Maybe they could get her to loosen up. The
only thing that bothered him was why she was being so
secretive.
"In that case, we'll go to plan two," continued T.
"Elle will take, uhm, Konatsu, Tsubasa, and Ryoga to
the crash site. Jay, Tatewaki, Nabiki, and Shampoo you
check the Onashi Observatory. Tokyo Police have a
Missing Persons report filed this morning by the
morning staff."
"No doubt, Krin," said Jay.
Tatewaki was lost, wondering where the connection
lay. "Krin took hostages?"
"Uh, probably not there, Tate m'man."
T tossed Elle the keys to his car. "Jay, looks
like your teams riding the Cycles."
"No problem. Okay folks let's--,"
"You want us to go searching a forest in the
dark?" Ryoga asked.
"Best time to work," replied Elle, giving T a
quick wink.
"Ever thought about sleep?"
"Are you kidding," said Jay. "We're M.I.B. now,
man! Thirty-seven hour work days for us."
"Ugh! If I'd known that, I might have just let
you make me forget after all," commented Nabiki.
Tatewaki smiled placing a friendly arm around
Nabiki's shoulders. "Forgive her. The mere mention of
work sends a shudder through her soul."
"That's going to cost you," said Nabiki.

* * * * *

A hour later, Elle and her team arrived in the
vicinity of the crash site and they stood shining their
flashlights around the area. Behind them they could
see the glow from the Onashi Observatory over the
surrounding hills, beyond that the speckles of lights
from the small hamlets leading to Mount Fuji.
Elle pulled out her scanner and began sweeping the
area. As the others watched, she waited for the
readout to complete it's analysis, finally flashing
it's results on the small screen. The scan drew a
blank.
"Elle," Konatsu called lightly. "What are we
looking for?"
"Anything that might help us, Konatsu," she
replied.
"It might help if we could find that downed ship,"
added Ryoga.
"Yeah, but if it came down here, where's all the
damage?" said Tsubasa.
Good question, thought Elle. The forest held nary
a mark or indication of any violent crash, still she
trusted her computations.
"Let's search the forest," she said moving towards
the tree line.
They approached with caution, remembering T's
warning about the missing agents from the night before.
With guns drawn the four stepped into the woods careful
to keep each other in close proximity. Ryoga panned
his light down at the ground. Suddenly, he stopped to
examine a dark patch of earth ahead. Taking a handful
of the dirt, Ryoga milled it around through his fingers
noting it's fresh, slightly damp feel. He called to
Elle.
"Find something?" she asked kneeling next to him.
"Yeah. This dirt is new. Not older than a day by
my guess."
"Animal activity maybe?"
Ryoga shook his head. "Dirt's' to dark for any
normal burrowing, and it's too close to this tree for
that matter."
Elle could see what Ryoga was getting at. There
were no bits of roots, no signs of wood debris anywhere
in the dirt he held. If an animal had dug that far
down it would have had to chew through several roots to
do it. She looked around for any holes ground and
found none.
"What do you think?" she asked Ryoga.
"Fresh earth means digging, and digging means
something was buried."
"Hm. Like a spaceship?"
Trading thoughtful looks, Elle called Konatsu and
Tsubasa over. "Hope you guys brought plenty of back
muscle tonight."
"Why, are we planning to be working out or
something?" asked Tsubasa.
"Sort'a," said Ryoga. "Our baddies might have
buried the ship."
"Great," muttered Konatsu. "That is all I need.
To get my suit dirty, and I just got used to it too."
Don't worry. M.I.B. suits are specially made for
field work like this."
Tsubasa looked at the spot Elle was pointing at.
He noticed that the fresh earth did not stop there,
trailing along further into the trees behind them.
"Elle, could Krin's pirates have done more than just
bury the ship?" he asked.
"Why do you ask?"
He shined his light around. "We saw no damage,
and something like this had to destroy at least some of
these trees."
Reaching up to a branch, Tsubasa pulled lightly.
The branch wavered, then came down trailing strands of
sticky webbing behind it. Elle started, trading
surprised looks with Ryoga.
"Well I'll be," she said. Elle went to the next
tree beyond and found the same thing had been done to
it. The four agents probed further into the forest,
finally coming upon a high mound situated in a small
clearing. Elle pulled her scanner out again.
"Are we in luck?" said Ryoga.
"Low trace particles from what could be Ion
emissions," she answered. "Could be our ship."
"I'll go look," said Konatsu. Nimbly, he climbed
up the mound as the other watched, kneeling down to
take a closer look at the ground. Hmm, he sounded
digging away some of the soft earth. His hand hit
something hard. "I found something," he called down.
The others joined him, and soon they had cleared
away what appeared to be some sort of hatch. Elle felt
around the edges looking for a switch to open it.
"We might have to clear away more of this dirt,"
she said to them.
"Hold on," replied Ryoga. Gesturing for her to
move back, Ryoga looked the metal surface over. He
arched a brow while drawing back a fist, then let out a
cry slamming it into the center. A hollow thrumming
followed and the hatch shuddered, sliding back.
A foul odor greeted them.
"Something must have crawled in here and died,"
commented Tsubasa, covering his nose.
Elle and Ryoga shined their lights inside. They
both paused, then Elle shook her head.
"Not crawled in," she said to Tsubasa.
Huh? thought Tsubasa, peering in. More webbing
laced the narrow confines of the ship. Suspended in
the center were two partially wrapped bodies devoid of
any skin, contorted expressions of agony on their
withered faces. Tsubasa spun away loosing what dinner
he had over the side.
Elle smirked, pulling her comlink out. "Guys, I
think we've found F and O," she said as the connection
was made back to M.I.B. Tokyo. "Better let T know."

* * * * *

"Okay, how's that?" Ranma said from behind the
main display console. Ringo uttered a few words,
peering into a small screen on the face of the
controls. Ranma looked up over the top.
"Hey, guy. Remember I don't speak your language,"
he said to the Gamorian.
"Be nice," Akane said. Ranma rolled his eyes
climbing back down. Behind them, T watched amused by
the way their new members had insinuated themselves
into M.I.B. without much trouble. It was remarkable
how well they worked together despite all the
personality differences. He hoped that after this Krin
incident was over they would stay on. M.I.B. could
surely use a team like this.
"Mister T," Kodachi called to him from the
communications console.
"Yes?"
"I've got Elle here on this circuit wanting to
speak to you."
T reached pulled out his commlink. [T here.]
[T, I've some bad news,] said Elle. [We've found
the ship, and the remains of Agents F and O.]
T clenched his eyes tight for a moment, letting
his sorrow pass before answering. [What, what type of
ship is it, Elle?]
Elle panned her light back down into the murky
darkness. It appeared to be the only room inside the
spaceship. Narrow, with all the controls situated
mainly close to the top. Odd, that would mean whoever
flew this had to be very dexterous.
Or had more than two arms.
[T, it's too small for a long distance flyer. I
think it would be safer to say this was just some kind
of shuttlecraft.]
Thinking, T wondered who's ship in the galactic
rim was conducting illegal landings on Earth, and with
Krin obviously in pursuit, it had to be more than that.
[Elle, how about an escape pod?] he asked.
Elle nodded thoughtfully. [Makes better sense
that a shuttle.]
[This means we're going to have to get a hold of
Zed and run a query with the Galactic Web. See if we
can find any recent ships in distress reports. Did you
find any markings?]
[The guys are trying to unearth more of this ship
now, but so far nothing's been found.]
[Okay. Go as far as you can with your search,
then call it a night. I'll see you all back here. T
out.]
Mousse strolled up next to him, arms full of spare
parts for the consoles. "Why the long look, boss?" he
asked.
"Uh? Oh, our information is still sparse, Mousse.
We're no closer to finding out what Krin was after than
before."
"Something will turn up," replied Mousse with a
shrug.
"It has to be soon before Krin strikes again." T
rubbed his chin. "I need to get in touch with Zed."
"Well I don't know much about all this electronic
stuff you have here boss, but what I've seen so far,
that's not going to happen anytime soon."
"Why is that?"
"These are all of the parts I could find that were
not damaged by the fire," answered Mousse, hefting the
spares up so he could see.
Another setback that could hurt them, thought T.
Following Mousse over to the consoles, he queried Ringo
about their status. The Gamorian rattled off a string
of estimates, none of them very good.
"So if none of these parts fix our communications,
we'll have no way to contact Headquarters at all?"
"[Ellioky]," answered Ringo.
"Do what you can then," said T. Ringo nodded
returning back to his repairs.
As he started to leave, T took a look at Akane
seated in a chair next to them. She held her head in
her hands obviously in some sort of discomfort.
"Akane," he said kneeling down next to her. She jumped
lightly, startled by his voice. "Are you ill?"
Pursing her lips together, Akane took a swig from
her water bottle. "A little heartburn I have," she
said, voice shifting into that strange tremolo.
T drew back casting a look at Kasumi. The eldest
Tendo sister came over and placed a hand to Akane's
forehead. "She does have a slight temperature."
"I'll be alright," said Akane. She winced
slightly, placing a hand to her chest.
"Right. Off we go," said Ukyo taking Akane by an
arm.
"No, I want to stay here with my Guardian!" cried
Akane, struggling against the grip.
Ranma pulled himself back up from behind the
console again. "Akane, will you stop this `Guardian'
stuff and go with them."
"Ranma, you said you'd be with me no matter what!"
Ranma grimaced. "Well I said that, but I'd rather
you be healthy than sick."
"You need to lie down and let me take care of you,
Akane," added Kasumi.
Akane looked aghast to the point of being
terrified. She started to protest, but T cut her off.
"Just for a few hours, Akane," he said. "When
Ranma is done here, I'll send him down. Okay?"
T's gentle voice settled Akane, and she nodded
allowing Ukyo and Kasumi to guide her out the control
room.
"That girl is certainly hung up on you," T said to
Ranma.
"Yeah, that's not normal either," he answered
watching them go. The doors closed and Ranma peered
down at Ringo. "Speaking of which, how much longer do
I have to be behind here anyway?"
Ringo's red eyes blinked at him before a light tap
by one of the tentacles on a button sent a short, sharp
jolt through Ranma. He cried out, dropping back down
out of sight.
"Hmm, that must mean a long time," commented
Mousse.
A beep sounded, Kodachi answering the call.
"Mister T, it's Jay," she said.
[Yes, Jay.]
[Hey, T check this out,] replied Jay. [We're at
this observatory and as you guessed our man Krin and
his thugs had been here alright. I'm pick'n up all
sorts of lifeform readings on my scanner.]
[Including the ones we found in the alley?]
[Yeah, all but that blob type you were tell'n me
about.]
So the Polymorph is absent. That means it had to
be Krin's target, and obviously they had captured it.
So what was the renewed interest in Akane?
[Jay, did you find anything else that might help
us out?]
[Not much. It seems this Professor Hiria Juyru,
boy there's a mouth full, and several of his staff went
out to investigate a sighting not far from here. By
looking at these coordinates, m'guess is the same spot
Elle's at right now.]
[Elle found the ship, and our two missing agents.]
By his tone Jay did not need to ask what had
happened to them. [The strangest thing is that the
students that were here that night also disappeared.]
[How many?]
Holding up a roster, Jay made a quick count.
[About ten total.]
"There weren't that many of Krin's accomplices at
Ucchan's," said Kodachi.
"But there might be more we've not seen," replied
T. That was a dark thought, but T set it aside for the
moment. [Anything else, Jay?]
[Naw. I got the newbies out killing brain cells
right now. We should be done in a sec here.]
[Okay. Link up with Elle and see if there is
anymore we can uncover at the crash site. I'll expect
you both back here in two hours.]
[No sweat. Later.]
T closed up his commlink pondering this new
information. This would take a serious database
search, something M.I.B. Tokyo was without right now.
The fastest way would be through Headquarters, but that
meant contacting Zed along ground channels, risking
discovery. He weighed the odds, finally concluding
that it would be worth the risk. Whatever it was Krin
was after they needed to get to first before the insane
pirate struck again.
"Kodachi, there is a number on the panel in front
of you. Please dial it up. When you have a
connection, ask for Zed and tell them it's urgent.
Extremely urgent."

















"The Earth is such a great place to live,"

Zaphod Beebelbrox at the start of his sentance on
Earth (2).
------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------


Part Five

Two's Company


The immense size of D'skta's engineering room
could not contain the angry shouts coming from inside.
This time it was not Krin who was raging, but Qu'tok
venting his fury at the ships computer system.
"D'skta! You have nothing to do but maintain
monitoring guard on our systems, and yet you've allowed
this to happen?!"
[I did not allow `this' to happen, Qu'tok,]
replied the sarcastic computer. [It was backfeed from
our esteemed leaders action during the interrogation.]
Qu'tok let out a growl ready to uncover the
computers mainframe and physically rip out its innards.
He was only stopped but the sound of the main hatch
opening, Krin, Morea and Binimi walking in.
"Okay, Qu'tok," said Krin leaning on the railing
of the upper deck. "What sort of problem do we now
have to face?"
"It's the Matter Cells, Krin," replied Qu'tok,
walking over to a large panel on the bulkhead behind
him.
"What about them?"
"When you fried that Guardian, the extra energy
drain was more than our power system could handle."
"Meaning?"
Qu'tok rolled his eyes. "We've burned out our
primary coupling unit, and if you plan on lifting off
anytime soon, forget it."
Morea shook her head. "Without the PCU, Krin,
control of matter to energy conversion is null and
void," she explained.
"In short," added Binimi clasping her hands
together. "Boom."
Her expanding gas gesture made Krin frown. "So
replace the part and that should solve our problem," he
said.
Lowering himself down by a thin strand of webbing,
Koo hung suspended over the center of engineering.
"Sorry, Krin," he said shaking his head. "We've no
spare right now."
"WHAT!"
Krin's voice shook the very foundations of the
machinery, his people shirking back with ears covered.
"Why, why do we not have another part, Qu'tok?"
"It was one of the items we were supposed to pick
up on our next stop to the Planetarium, but this little
job side tracked us."
"Can it be repaired?"
"Alid's down there now looking it over. He'll let
us know in a short while."
"Make it quick, Qu'tok," growled Krin. "Once
we've retrieved Regent I want to be off this accursed
rock immediately."
Krin turned and stormed out the doors.
Binimi and Morea traded worried looks. "Qu'tok,"
called Morea. "What are our chances of repairing the
PCU?"
Qu'tok remained silent, slowly shaking his head.

* * * * *

M.I.B. Tokyo's control room was quiet, several of
the newest members sprawled out catching what little
sleep they could. Once Elle and Jay had returned,
everyone pitched in trying to clear up what remaining
debris was left, fixing what they could. It was long
work, but now at least it was beginning to resemble a
control room again. Over at the center table T, Jay,
Elle, and Ringo sat milling over their status, trying
to come up with some sort of plan to find Krin. Jay
snored lightly in his chair; Elle asleep with her arms
across her chest, head tipped back.
T twirled a thin semi-transparent green circuit
board in his hands looking over the carbon scoring that
marred it's edges.
"And all we need is one of these and we can have
comms back up with Headquarters?" he said to Ringo.
Ringo babbled a stream of words, pointing to parts
of the card.
"And all of the spares were destroyed in the fire.
That is very unfortunate. Have you tried using parts
from the other consoles?"
[Fledklelee], replied Ringo.
"No luck. Then we must go and buy a new one."
T set the card down and reached over tapping Jay
on the arm. He sprang upright as if startled.
"No, man she's the one who let me in, cuz!" he
cried out.
Not startled, just guilty.
"Jay, it's me, T."
Blinking, Jay yawned stretching his arms. "Whoa,
that was some dream I was have'n. Thanks for waking me
up, T."
The commotion brought Elle from her slumbers.
"What time is it?" she asked rubbing her face.
"Quarter till seven," answered T.
"In the morning! Man, wake me when its time for
breakfast," said Jay.
"Come on we have work to do," ordered T. The two
reluctantly fought to remain awake, listening in on
what T had to say.
"First, Ringo has got most of our control consoles
ready to go. All we need now is replacement card and
we can contact Zed directly."
"So what's stopping us?" asked Jay.
"No part. Now I know a dealer here in Central
Tokyo who might have what we need. He's usually not
open until nine, so we still have some time to go."
"So until then?" said Elle.
"We should be looking for a message from Zed. I
chanced a standard call to New York last night queering
him about our mystery Polymorph. I am guessing that
Krin is, or should I say was after it."
"If that's true, he's already got it based upon
our findings."
"Maybe. There still is this missing connection
with Akane."
"Yeah, how is the `Fish' anyway?"
"She's been complaining about heartburn, and
wanting to stay near Ranma twenty four and seven."
"Hell of a crush," said Elle. "Odd if you ask
me."
"Saotome thinks so as well," replied T. "She's
holding something back. Something that's got her
frightened out of her wits."
Jay glanced over at the dotting couple cuddled
asleep in one corner of the room. "Ain't they cute,"
he said.
"It's obvious that the only person Akane's really
going to trust is her immediate family and Ranma," Elle
said.
"Yes. Once everyone's had enough rest, get them
together and see if they can get Akane to open up.
While you're doing that, I'll take two of our
fledglings with me downtown and see if I can get a
replacement part for Ringo."
"And if Zed calls looking for answers?" said Jay.
T shrugged. "Just hope he's not upset."
"Zed? Naw, not a chance. Mister Mount St.Helens
himself . . . please."

* * * * *

"This?" questioned Krin holding up a thin film of
circuitry panel in his hand. "This is what is causing
me all of my troubles?"
"Yes, that is the culprit, Krin," answered Alid.
He had just closed up the PCU, making what repairs he
could. Now all that remained was replacing several
sheets of the fibrous wiring that relayed commands and
controls to the unit, and that would not be easy to do.
Krin could not believe his luck. Stupefied by
this mishap, he sat down flipping the film from one
side to the other. Point zero two microns of
electrical circuitry, that's all it was. It might as
well have been one hundred meters thick, the technology
of this planet having nothing close to what they
needed.
"Qu'tok, I hope you are delving ideas in that
sinister mind of your over there," he said turning
around to face his exec.
Qu'tok stood before a monitor running through the
latest ads from merchants in the near by quadrants. So
far his search came up with nothing that would help.
"Not looking very good for us, Krin," he said.
"Closest I can get is a dealer off the path near
Gandemede."
"Have you tried the blackmarket yet?"
Qu'tok shifted to one side. He reached into a
cabinet and pulled out a data disk, slamming it into
the computer's slot. "This data has not been updated
in some time," he said to Krin.
"Just see if you can find us somebody on this
planet that might be able to help."
Skimming the list, Qu'tok came across one name
that might suit their needs. He told the ship's
computer to display the location up on the main screen.
"S-s-sh-sh-hin-juuu-koouu?" grumbled Krin.
"There is a merchant in a place called the `Nomura
Building' if I read this right," Qu'tok said.
"Hey, that will take us near M.I.B.," added Morea,
pointing to the Fuji T.V. station.
Krin did not want another confrontation with his
opponents, not just yet. Once D'skta was back up to
full power, then he'd try another attack on their
building. However, this might just prove to be a
golden opportunity in its own right.
"Qu'tok, take Alid and Koo with you to this
Central Bank dwelling and see if our merchant is still
doing business."
"Alid and Koo? You want me to be killed, Krin?"
"Spare me your snivels, Qu'tok."
"Okay, but don't say I did not warn you."
Krin's teeth grit tight together for a moment
before he resumed control of himself. "Are the
Listeners ready?"
"Yes."
"Then while you are on your way back, let them
loose on M.I.B. I want to know what our friends are
planning now that they've lost track of us."
Qu'tok grinned. "As you wish, Krin," he replied.

* * * * *

The Nomura Building, 09:45 AM.

Traffic was terrible T not liking the delay he,
Mousse and Shampoo endured driving down to the center
of Tokyo. Finally they arrived at the Nomura Building
situated among the myriad of new high rise
constructions that sprang up out of the heart of the
capital city. Parking in the underground parking lot,
the trio stood waiting for the next elevator to arrive.
"T," said Shampoo. "Why we come here for parts?"
"Because, Shampoo, most off-world merchants
operate incognito," answered T. "They will use any
guise to conceal their true identities, and their true
customers."
"But don't you think this is kind of obvious?"
asked Mousse.
"Not really. Our `merchant' we'll say, is located
on the upper floors. Not to high, not to low, perfect
for dealings without drawing any attention to himself."
The elevator arrived, and they stepped inside. T
hit the button marked 114, and the elevator started its
way back up.
"So why here?" asked Shampoo again.
"I thought I explained that already," said T.
"No, no. I mean why aliens come to Earth to sell
goods only other aliens can use?"
"Opportunity, Shampoo. Earth is a goldmine if you
will pardon the expression."
"It is?"
"Of course. You don't think flat screen
televisions were invented by our scientist now, do
you?"
"You see I told you, Shampoo," Mousse said. "It's
all the same no matter where you go, even in space.
Greed and Money, the two most powerful forces known."
T laughed, humored by Mousse's analogy. He was
not far off the mark though, sad but true. If M.I.B.
were not here to regulate and control such activities,
who knows what shape the Earth might be in now.
"Uh, boss," said Mousse. "By small chance do you
happen to know who it is we are going to see.
"Oh yes, Mousse. I know him very well. You might
say he's one of my . . . charges."
"Ah, he crook then. Shampoo like to straighten
out crooks."
"Hopefully it won't come down to that, Shampoo.
But hold that thought."
They arrived at their floor, T leading them down
one corridor to a set of double doors at the end.
Mousse paused to read the sign on the wall.
"Zaphod Beebelbrox?" he said. "Financial Business
Investor and Consultant?"
"Crook. This why country in such trouble now,"
snapped Shampoo.
They went in finding themselves in a modestly
decorated waiting room. The floor was made of black
marble, four plush chairs off to the right across from
a receptionist desk. The young lady seated behind it
looked up from her work.
"May I help you?" she asked smiling brightly.
"Is Mister Beebelbrox in?" said T.
"Mister Beebelbrox is in, but he's on the phone
right now."
"Could you tell him his `Agent' is here to see
him."
The receptionist frowned looking them over. She
reached over and picked up her phone dialing into the
private line. After a few minutes she hung up.
"Mister Beebelbrox will see you now," she told
them.
T thanked her leading Shampoo and Mousse into the
main office. More suited as a penthouse than anything
else, it was designed with maximum comfort in mind for
its current occupant. A large bar and kitchenette sat
to the right of the room, the same black marble
adorning the floor. Two stupendous panoramic views of
Tokyo could be seen through the wide bay windows on
either side of the office. Centered to the left was a
large desk of dark ebony, several chair in front. A
high back chair sat behind the desk, it's occupant
could be clearly heard chatting with somebody on the
phone.
"Yes, yes, Ichinochi. I have moved two hundred
million Yen over to the Indonesian Bank Charter Funds
as you instructed. When? Why just yesterday. They
should be able to access the account by this afternoon.
What? My fees? Oh let's say I did this as a
`friendly' gesture."
T's brows furrowed together in obvious annoyance
at the last statement. He cleared his throat drawing
Beebelbrox's attention. Zaphod's handsome features
locked down on the three in mild surprise. Wearing a
dark gray pinstriped suit that seemed a tad bit large
around the shoulders, Zaphod's long dark hair was
pulled back into a ponytail, the standard fashion among
these new business executives, crisp blue eyes
carefully studying the agents. Raising a finger to
give himself some time, Zaphod concluded his business
on the phone.
"Look, Ichinochi I've got some other associates
here waiting for me. Can I call back? Sure, anytime.
Chow, and give my love to Soyia."
He hung up, resting his chin on his hands and
gazed at T. "Agent T, what an unexpected surprise to
see you here. What brings you into my neck of the
woods?"
Striding up to the desk, T narrowed an eye at him,
drawing a light gulp form the rep. "Spare me the
insult of stupidity, Zaphod," said T leaning slightly
over towards him. "Did I hear you right? Did you just
say--,"
"Say I just transferred two hundred million Yen
over to the Indonesian Charter? Why yes you did, T my
good man," cut in Zaphod. "My `donation' to stem the
tide of economic erosion that seems to be affecting
much of Asia right now."
"Don't bull me, Zaphod. I distinctly remember
that part of your sentence here was to avoid all
dealing pertaining to world marketing gains and
capital. Why are you violating that stipulation?"
Beeblebrox placed his arms protectively across his
head ready to shield himself from any blows T might
throw at him. As the echo faded, he peek out between
them.
"Now T, really. How am I violating my parole by
bringing aid and goodwill to all of my clientele."
The steady glare T held on him felt uncomfortable;
Zapod tugging nervously at his collar.
"I can see you are not quite as trust worthy as--
,"
"How much, Zaphod?" asked T.
Zaphod acted aghast by the accusation. He pushed
himself away from the desk. "T, don't you have any
sense of trust in a poor, ex-galactic president like--
,"
"Shampoo!"
Shampoo walked up next to T, cracking her knuckles
ready to conduct some servere damage to the man.
Zaphod eyed her shapely figure, letting out a low
hum of pleasure. "This your new muscle, T? I like
her."
"How much, Zaphod?" T asked again.
Innocently, he rolled his eyes up towards the
ceiling. "Oh . . . a mere twenty percent off the
interest."
"Shampoo."
A fist slammed down on the top of the desk. It
creaked, then split in half.
"My desk!" cried Zaphod. "Do you know how much
that cost me?"
"Are you going to tell me the truth?"
Shampoo reached over taking a handful of
Beebelbrox's suit. When she jerked him up, it pulled
slightly to one side. Out popped another head
identical to the first. She let out a squeal jumping
back ready to attack.
"Please, please!" cried the second head, a third
arm rising up to protect it.
Mousse started to reach for his blaster, but a
hand from T held him back.
"Meet Mister Zaphod Beeblebrox's other, less know
half," said T. "No need to quote the old clich' about
two heads, but in this case both are not thinking like
they should.
"Hey, that's not nice, T," said Zaphod.
"Spare us, Zaphod. Now, tell me the real figures
before I unleash my two assistants upon both of you."
Mousse and Shampoo moved to either side of the
cowering Beebelbrox, and he paused taking double
glances at them.
"So M.I.B. has to resort to strong arm tactics now
to--,"
"Zaphod!"
"Fifty percent, plus twenty percent royalties off
of every commission, I swear that the truth, T!"
Tension followed as the beleaguered consultant
waited for the next events to happen. T quietly took a
chair. He drew up close, then sighed.
"Zaphod, Zaphod, Zaphod," said T shaking his head
with a chuckle. "Still the con you always were. Now
the Galactic council sent you here to finish out your
sentence clearly stating that you were not to have any
type of influence in this worlds affairs."
"And I have not, T," replied Zaphod.
"Yeah, all we did was trigger a few stock
insecurities to raise a little interest points,
GGGGUUURRRKKKK!"
"Will you be quiet!" rage the Primary Zaphod,
gripping his erstwhile associate by the throat.
"So you're the reason why our business rent went
up," said Mousse. "That's grounds enough for a good
pounding, isn't it Shampoo!"
"You bet it is!"
"Hold on," said T. He glared at Zaphod again.
"You've violated your parole by doing this, Zaphod. I
should report you to Zed. He's just looking for an
excuse to bounce you off Earth."
"Wait a minute, T. We, we don't have to go that
far."
"Oh I think we do." T paused sitting back to let
Zaphod stew for a moment. "However; I need something
from you."
All the fear rushed from Beeblebrox, the smell of
profit welling up in both his minds. "Oh really," he
slurred feeling confident.
"Don't start getting any ideas," continued T. He
nodded to Mousse, and the small circuit board appeared
in his hand.
"Got any of these?" Mousse asked showing it to
Zaphod.
The consultant took it, holding it up to the
light. "Yes, I do believe I have several of these
available . . . for a moderate price of course."
"Still not thinking straight, Zaphod?" said T.
"Oh I'm thinking quite clear, T. A lowly
parolee's got to make a buck at every chance he gets."
"Now, T. Now?" growled Shampoo clutching a fist
full of collar.
"Hheellpp!! TT ccaallll ooffff tthhiiss
vviioolleenntt wwoommaann ooff yyoouurrss!" cried the
heads in unison.
"Do we get the part, or is it time for a knuckle
music concerto to be performed?"
Zahpod quickly conceded to the demand and Shampoo
roughly let him go. "Geesh, Earthman. You don't have
to be so rough," he said straightening himself out.
"Normally I would not be so forceful, but this is
an emergency. The Part?"
Keeping one head locked on Shampoo, Zaphod knelt
down to the shattered desk. "Let's hope this still
works," he muttered, depressing a button just under the
edge of the top. The far wall suddenly split, exposing
a computer terminal and full wall screen. Zaphod
stood, walking over and turned the terminal on.
"Okay, let's see here. One Alta Seven Three
Isocrystal Conduit Card. Say there's a newer model
out, T. I could get you one for half--,"
"Zaphod."
"Okay, just thought I'd ask. Can't blame me for
trying."
Inputting the request, Zaphod stepped over to
another panel. He tapped in a few codes on the face
and it snapped open. Speckles of light formed inside,
then the card they were looking for materialized into
view. Mousse and Shampoo gaped in astonishment.
"Like that, kids?" asked Zaphod noting their
looks. "Had an old friend named Roddenberry fix me up
with this little gadget."
T pulled out the card, holding it up to the light
checking for flaws. It appeared to be good, but he'd
have Ringo run a complete check on it before they
installed it into the system.
"This had better not be a dud, Zaphod," he warned.
"Otherwise you might get a return visit from my two
associates with very special instructions from me that
won't be in your favor."
"Now T is that anyway to treat an old friend?"
"I know you, Zaphod," replied T. Reaching into
his jacket, he pulled out his wallet. "And to let you
know how much I know you, I'll even debit you from
M.I.B. funds for your services."
A grin stretching from ear to ear formed, Zaphod
eagerly taking the card from T. A heavy hand suddenly
came down on a shoulder.
"Take only what's owed you, Beeblebrox," said T.
"And not a credit more, my dear friend T,"
answered Zaphod. "Uh, how should I account this?"
"A friendly gesture."
"A Friendly Gesture, ah yes very fitting indeed."
Mousse stepped up next to T as Beeblebrox
registered the transaction. He leaned close and
whispered into his ear.
"Are you going to trust this guy, boss?"
"It will be fine, and knock off that `boss' stuff.
I told you we're not Yakuza."
The transaction completed, Zaphod handing T back
his card. "Anything else I can help you with T, just
give me a call."
T motioned Mousse and Shampoo towards the doors.
"Just see that you correct your little stock tickler by
the time I return, Zaphod," he replied.
"Oh do I have to?"
"I hear the Vogons still have quite a price out on
your head."
"It will be corrected in no time."
T smiled. "Good day, Zaphod," he said following
after his two assistants.
"This is good," Zahpod's second could be heard to
say. "Two sales in one morning. Looks like we won't
have to wait for that yacht after all."
Mousse and Shampoo just opened the double doors
when T came to an abrupt stop. Two sales? he muttered,
his curiosity aroused. Turning, T lowered a dark brow
at Beeblebrox.
"Two sales?" he said again.
"Why can't you keep your mouth shut!" whispered
Zaphod at his alter ego.
"I'm sorry. We just don't talk enough."
Zaphod threatened to smack him before addressing T
question. "Yes I made an earlier sale about fifteen
minutes before you arrived."
"And to whom did you make this sale to, Zaphod?"
"Well he wasn't rude like you've been, T. A tall
fellow. Looked rather in need of several full course
meals."
"A name?"
"Can't remember right off, but he did pay me in
hard Titanium ingots for two small spools of fiber
conduit."
T started walking towards him. "Close the doors,"
he called over his shoulder while picking up his pace.
Zaphod could clearly sense that his life was about
to be threatened once again.
"T, what do you want from me!" he cried backing
away.
"You mean us," said the second head.
"Yes us, oh will you shut up!"
"Zaphod, if you can't give me a name by the time
my fingers are wrapping themselves around your throats,
Zed won't have a need to deport you!"
Frantically, Beeblebrox searched for a name to
give the angered agent before he ceased to exists
anymore. "KLUTER!" he suddenly exclaimed.
T stopped. "Huh?" he said.
"I-I-I mean Qumora!"
Mousse traded looks with Shampoo. "Do you mean
`Qutok'?" he called to him.
"Yes that's it, the very name. Qu'tok."
Immediately, T spun around. He glanced down at
his watch estimating that if Qu'tok was still in the
vicinity they would have to hurry to catch him.
Shampoo and Mousse were already sprinting out the doors
and he ran to catch up with them.
Beeblebrox shuddered. Staggering over to the bar,
he poured himself a double shot of brandy taking a long
swig. The things one does just to keep ones head on
straight, he thought thankful to be alive and unhurt.
"My, my. Such an ungrateful person that T is,"
commented his second head.
Zaphod smirked at him. "Oh shut up," he said,
pouring a mouth full of brandy down it's throat.

* * * * *

T tapped his foot impatiently, watching as the
indicator lights counted down the floors they were
rapidly passing. By mear minutes they had missed the
best chance of catching one of Krin's people. Why
Qu'tok was here did not matter for the moment,
relocating him did. Traffic might have held him up,
but what if he was on foot? The pirate could be
several block away by now, and it was too risky to do a
scan in the middle of civilians. Finally, the commlink
synced.
[M.I.B., Nabiki speaking.]
[Nabiki, this is T. Put Jay on and hurry!]
There was a short pause, then Jay came on line.
[Yo, T. Got the goods?]
[No time for small talk, Jay. One of Krin's
people is here in the same building we're at!]
Jay sprang out of the chair he was reclining in.
[What! You guys need some help? Say the word, man!]
[I'm saying the word, Jay. Get a team down here
ASAP! Mousse, Shampoo and I will try to gain contact.]
[Okay. You guys be sharp. Don't get your ass's
hung out on a limb, okay? We'll be down in a flash!]
T frowned at his comlink. "Ass's hung out on a
limb?" he questioned.
"You must be talking to Jay," said Shampoo.
"Strange man, he talk funny."
"Ah huh," replied T holding back the rest of his
words. While this was going on, Mousse had been using
the scanner trying to pick up a trace of their
opponent. The green jewel flashed intermittently, not
meaning much to him, but meaning a whole lot to T.
"He's a bug," he growled drawing his blaster.
"Better set your weapons to maximum power."
A casual flick had Mousse's weapon out; Shampoo
reaching behind her back pulling her blaster out from a
holster set at the small of her back inside her mini-
skirt.
"I was wondering where you would hide that thing,"
commented Mousse as he charged up.
"Remember, we don't want any shooting around
civilians," ordered T. "Use force only in self
defense."
"So what are we going to do if we run up on him
unexpectedly?" asked Mousse.
"I just want to maintain contact until Jay arrives
with reinforcements. Then we will try to apprehend
him."
"You say something about bug," said Shampoo.
"Yes, our mister Qu'tok is of the Insectus
Cabeovoeous species."
"So he not what man appear to be, just like crook
upstairs."
"Right. So watchout for things like extending
pincers, claws, or adhesive appendages."
Shampoo shuddered appalled by the image in her
mind.
"He might not be alone," said Mousse as the
elevator reached ground floor.
T closed up the scanner and put it away. "We'll
find out in a moment," he replied leading them out into
the lobby.

* * * * *

Qu'tok's patience was starting to wane as Alid
tested the filaments just acquired minutes ago.
Finding out if they were bad back on the ship was not a
good idea, especially with Krin running on edge like he
was. Alid sat at the back of their commandeered
Landrover scanning the filaments carefully.
"Well?" asked Qu'tok.
"High quality. Very fine construction, no
immediate flaws found so far," answered Alid.
Qu'tok took a brief look up around the underground
parking lot checking for any unwanted eyes lurking
about. "So you're saying we can go now."
Alid looked up. "Yes, Qu'tok."
"Good. Let's get Koo and depart. We've wasted
too much time as it is."
"Where is Koo?"
"Looking out for--,"
Qu'tok's voice trailed away as he noticed that Koo
was nowhere to be seen. "Now where in the stars flames
has that idiot gone off to?" he growled. I warned Krin
about sending both of these troublemakers with me.
"I'll bet he went back up to find something to
eat," said Alid.
Qu'tok shook violently, the strain stretching the
covering he wore to it's limits. Gasping, he settled
down and regained control of his emotions.
"Alid, go find your . . . no that's only adding
more problems to the situation. Stay here, I'll go and
get him."
Grumbling untold curses, Qu'tok went off in search
of his wayward charge.

* * * * *

Koo's primary stomach grumbled increasing the need
for him to find something edible to eat before he
starved to death. This lobby area was full of humans,
all ready for a quick snatch and kill. He pushed back
the idea knowing full well that Qu'tok would not
approve of his actions, and worse Krin would melt him
down just like that Guardian. The taste of cooked Poly
returned to his mind renewing the grumbles his stomachs
were making.
"Got to find something to eat," muttered Koo
making his way through the crowd.
Several of the humans around him seemed to be
devouring small items in their hands. Koo observed for
a moment then found the source of their nourishment.
Set inside a small recess on a wall stood three tall
machines with large lit windows on the front. Inside
in several shelves were small bags or metal cans that
the humans were eagerly pulling from a slot at the
bottom. Some sort of public feeding dispenser, he
thought stepping up to one.
Nothing happened, Koo expecting one of the
containers to be instantly dispensed to him. "Come
on," he said punching it. Still the machine remained
inert.
"You need money, sir," a voice said from behind.
Koo looked back finding a young female standing
there, obviously waiting for him to make a selection.
"Uh, yeah," he said.
"Do you need change?" she asked.
Realizing that he had none of the monetary
currency of this planet on him, Koo grinned and shook
his head. He stepped aside allowing the woman to make
her selection. Closely he watched her drop a few small
round pieces of metal into a slot then press a button.
The machine hummed and out dropped one of the small
packets. Quickly, the woman pulled it out and moved
away eyeing him suspiciously.
"So all I need to do is drop metal bits into this
hole and I've all the food I want," said Koo to
himself. But to find the metal bits, that would be
difficult.
An idea formed. Koo took a few quick glances
around making sure that nobody was watch then pressed
his hands together and started rubbing. In seconds he
had spun a small flat disk of webbing about the same
size as the metal the humans were using. Careful to
leave a strand attached to it, he dropped his homemade
coin into the slot and made a selection. His trick
worked, the machine dispensing one of the packets to
the bottom.
Giggling with glee, Koo proceeded to deplete each
machine. He stood with arms full of sodas, chips and
candy ignoring the various complaints from the people
around him as he headed back to rejoin Qu'tok and Alid.
Unfortunately, another terrifying sight brought
him to an abrupt stop in the middle of the lobby.
The far elevator doors opened up and out walk the
last three persons he expected to see this early in the
day. It was that M.I.B. agent and two of those ultra-
violent humans they had fought just yesterday. By the
looks on their faces they were in no mood for casual
conversation. At the same time they spotted Koo, and
time suddenly froze.
"Uh oh," said Koo dropping his newly acquired
booty to the ground.
"It him!" shouted Shampoo. "One of men with funny
sticky rope!"
"FREEZE!" shouted T.
That did not do much good, Koo dashing off in the
opposite direction and the chase began.
People cried out as Koo forced his way desperately
through the throng of people moving through the main
doors as he sought to escape. Breaking out onto the
busy sidewalk, he ran up the block hoping the crowd
would conceal his movement. No such luck, the three
M.I.B. agents were hot on his trail and rapidly closing
the distance. Qu'tok was going to be mad, thought Koo
rounding the corner. Maybe if he was lucky he would
kill him instead of Krin.
The entrance leading down into the underground
garage came into view and Koo made his way towards it.
Something small whisked pass his head imbedding itself
deep into the concrete. He chanced a look back
spotting that strange human wearing those thick eye
coverings holding a small knife blade upheld in his
hand ready to throw. Not used to being a target, Koo
vaulted the rail across the opening. A guard stepped
out to stop him, but let out a cry as Koo leveled him.
By the time the agents reached the guard, Koo had
disappeared inside.
"Damn," growled T as he knelt next to the
unconscious man.
"What now, boss?" said Mousse.
"Get after him, but be careful."
Mousse and Shampoo rushed on after Koo.
T slung the Guard over a shoulder. "How am I
going to explain this to Zed," he said looking around
for a place to him.

* * * * *

Shampoo signaled a stop to Mousse moving into a
low crouch eyeing the row of cars around them. Loosing
sight of their quarry was not a good thing to do in the
tight confines of the lower parking lots. Though they
were under strict orders not to use their weapons
unless it was necessary, they both were sure no such
rule existed for Krin's people.
"What now?" whispered Mousse.
"We look around, silly," replied Shampoo. "Skinny
man not leave this level Shampoo sure of."
"He can be anywhere, Shampoo. If he gets the
notion to start shooting at us we might not get the
chance to take cover."
"You want him to get away?"
"No."
"Then we try to find man."
Mousse frowned knowing that they had to at least
try despite the danger. He stood up and started
walking slowly down the driveway; Shampoo maintaining a
few steps behind covering his back. Carefully he
peered between the cars every sense he possessed
straining to pick up even the slightest hint of their
elusive foe. A slight shift ahead made him pause.
Mousse glanced back and Shampoo nodded slightly. As he
continued to move forward, she reached back letting her
right hand rest on the grip of her pistol ready to draw
in a moments notice.
They reached the turn leading down to the next
level but still there was no sign of the man they were
after.
"Mousse, he can't be this far. We would have seen
if he go down to next level."
Mousse stopped and looked around. "He had to have
gone this way, Shampoo."
The sound of an approaching car from the lower
level made them quickly step off to the side. It
rounded the turn headlights briefly shining in their
eyes. As it passed, Mousse watched to make sure it was
not who they were after. The car turned and for a
brief second the dark recesses of the overhead were lit
as it passed. A figure shifted and Mousse spotted Koo
perched up on the wall. Their eyes met and Koo sprang
down at Shampoo.
Mousse knew trying to warn her was to late, so he
threw a body tackle knocking Shampoo out of harms way.
Koo crashed down to the hard concrete. Rolling, he
turned greeting Mousse's fist with his chin. Rocking
back, the pirate moaned then locked an angry gaze on
him.
"Don't move!" shouted Mousse as he drew his
blaster.
Staring at each other, Koo sneered then launched a
wad of sticky goo at him. It was unexpected, Mousse
snapping off a shot as he dived out of the way. Koo
pounced, landing on his chest.
"Stupid, silly M.I.B. man," he said. A sharp thin
probe extended out towards Mousse's face. Barely did
the man shift his head to one side. He could hear the
asphalt crack next to his ear and grimaced. Lifting a
leg, Mousse levered Koo up over him towards the far
wall. Much to his surprise instead of smacking head
long into it, Koo latched on to its smooth surface. He
laughed looking back with a derisive grin then leaped
away.
Mousse watched him disappear behind some cars.
"Damnit!" he growled trying to draw a bead on the
escaping pirate. It was of little use, the blaster
gummed up with the thick webbing. Koo's figure darted
around the corner towards the next level. Hurriedly,
Mousse went over to help a bruised and dazed Shampoo.
"Shampoo, Shampoo are you alright?" he asked
kneeling next to her.
She looked up rubbing the side of her head. A
sharp slap sent Mousse back on his rear. "Why you hit
Shampoo so hard!"
"I had to do something, Shampoo. That weirdo was
just about to skewer you like a piece of Yakatori!"
"Oooo, idiot. Now strange man escape us!"
Footsteps echoed from the up the way, T appearing
in full stride around the corner. Mousse called to him
and he stopped.
"I assume our pirate friend?" he said.
"Yeah. Ran down to the next level," replied
Mousse.
"Silly blind-man let him escape," accused Shampoo.
"Did not!"
"Did too!"
"Okay, lets argue later," T said. "Right now
we've got to get after him before we loose the trail."
Helping Shampoo up, Mousse started pulling at the
strands fouling his blaster. "Hey how do you get this
stuff off?" he asked.
"We'll do it later. Let's go."
T ran towards the next opening with Mousse and
Shampoo in close trail.

* * * * *

What the hell is M.I.B. doing here, wondered Koo
as he scuttled through the lower levels of the garage
trying to get back to his companions. Such a mess,
such a mess! Hoo Boy is Krin ever going to be mad.
Entering an intersection, Koo stopped trying to
get his bearings. A couple entered the lot through a
door and he ducked down behind some cars. Not M.I.B.,
but it might be better to stay out of sight of anyone
right now. They left and he moved on.
Koo found a floorplan and looked it over. Unable
to read any of the strange script, he cursed himself
for not paying more attention to Binimi's brief.
"This is useless!" he scowled turning around.
Standing quietly behind him stood Qu'tok, a slight
sneer on his face. Koo let out a yelp and pressed up
against the wall.
"You bumbling idiot!" shouted Qu'tok lashing out
to grab him in a tight choke hold around the throat.
"Qu'tok . . . I'm so . . . happy to . . . see
you!" said Koo.
"But not for long. What the hell are you doing,
and why are you shooting you gun off?"
"It's not me, Qu'tok. It was one of those M.I.B.
people!"
In a flash Qu'tok jerked Koo around the nearest
corner. He looked around the lot then hunkered low.
"M.I.B.? You've led M.I.B. to us!"
Koo winced. "Nnno, they kind'a led themselves to
me," he answered.
Qu'tok slapped him across the top of the head.
"Idiot! How many of them are there?"
"Three. Two human males and a female."
"The same three we first encountered?"
"One of them was, the other two are from that
Akane Tendo place, but they both were dressed like me."
Qu'tok let him go. He thought realizing that
M.I.B. must have recruited those violent friends of
Tendo's to help search for them. Why are they here?
Could not be because of any tracking devices. No, I
would have found those. He glanced down at the
cowering Koo, then shook his head. Blind luck that had
to be it, he surmised.
Jerking Koo to his feet, Qu'tok peered around the
corner of the wall. Hmm, maybe we can use this blind
luck to our advantage.
"Koo, where did you leave these M.I.B. agents?"
"Well behind me, Qu'tok. We should be getting
back to Alid and leave before they--,"
"I want you to find them again."
Drawing back, Koo looked at him lost. "What did
you say, Qu'tok?"
"You heard me. Go find them!" snapped Qu'tok.
"But what am I going to do once I find them?"
Qu'tok jerked him back around to the floorplan
again. "We are here," he began pointing to their
current location on the plan. "I want you to lead them
through this portion where I will be waiting."
Tracing a finger along the main concourse, Qu'tok
stopped near the far end. "Don't screw this up, or
Krin might have a good excuse to vaporize you once we
get back . . . if we do."
"Are you going to try and kill them, Qu'tok? If
you are, please leave just a few good chunks I can--,"
Another sharp slap sent him staggering.
"Still thinking about stuffing your gullets! By
the Cache of the Mother, will you get going before I
kill you!"
"Yes, right, I'm going now," replied Koo running
back up the way he came. He suddenly stopped, then ran
back over.
"Forgot where I was leading them," he said
grinning as he peered at the floorplan once more.
"Koo!"
Koo broke up the driveway.

* * * * *

Careful eyes scanned the dimly lit garage, T
walking carefully down the center driveway; Mousse and
Shampoo to either side pacing him. Each possible
hiding place their quarry could hide was carefully
searched, but so far they turned up nothing. T's
comlink beeped and he stopped.
[T.]
[Yo, T,] replied Jay. [I'm about five minutes
away from you. What's your status?]
[Not good. We encountered one of Krin's people
and chased him down into the lower parking garage but
lost him.]
[Okay, man. You keep looking and we'll cover the
place up here.]
[Roger. See you.]
T put it away and resumed his pace. "This is not
looking good for us, kids," he said.
"He had a good lead on us," said Mousse. "Who
knows where he could have gone."
"I'm hoping not out of the building again. Jay is
not in place yet and won't be for a few more minutes."
Shampoo sighed. "We fail then."
A light shuffle sounded ahead. Koo stumbled out
in to view at the center of the intersection much to
the three agents surprise.
"Oh, so there you are," called Koo to them.
"Thought you had gotten away from me."
The three exchanged confused looks, then T drew
his blaster.
"Don't move!" he shouted.
"Yeah, right," replied Koo. He cartwheeled back
up the way he came and the Agents set out in pursuit.
A merry chase ensued, Koo staying just within
sight of his pursuers, laughing loudly as he made his
way along. He hit the intersection and started towards
the last part of the run when it dawned on him that
Qu'tok did not tell him what to do after he arrived.
Panic started to manifest itself at the back of his
mind.
"Oh Qu'tok. Qu'tok! What do I do now?" he
called.
"Will you shut up!" came Qu'tok's voice. "Are you
trying to spoil this?"
"Well you've left me with no instructions after
I've led these M.I.B. agents here!"
"Idiot!" Keep heading down to the next level.
Alid is there."
Koo reached the end and stopped. He looked back
making sure that he had not lost M.I.B.. Nope, still
there and definitely pissed off. He laughed again and
ducked out of sight.
Halfway down, T suddenly slowed his pace.
"T, come on. Strange man getting away!" called
Shampoo.
"No," he said and they stopped. Something was not
right to T. It seemed to him that Krin's man was
actually leading them along, and that smelled of a
trap. T signaled to Shampoo to draw her blaster as he
walked slowly forward.
In a far row to wards the back of the garage
Qu'tok skulked low listening for the sounds of the
approaching M.I.B. agents. The shadows provided him
with the perfect cover and slowly he peered up, gazing
through the windows of the car he hid behind. Ah, yes!
There they were, the overconfident agents walking right
into his trap. It wasn't death he wanted, no far from
that.
Slinking back down, Qu'tok reached into one of his
pockets and pulled out ten black marble like objects.
"Wake up. Wake up my little ones," he whispered
brushing a warm hand over them. The marbles twitched,
then four tine pairs of legs extended as a pair of
beady round eyes opened up through slitted lids.
"Time for work," said Qu'tok. He raised his hand
up allowing the creatures to see their targets. Warmth
flowed through Qu'tok's hand signaling to him that his
cache of Listeners had registered and were ready to
conduct their mission.
"Go, my children and report back what you find."
The ten Listeners extended thin wings from the top
of their backs and silently whisked away.
Now that the second half of his mission was
accomplished, Qu'tok waited until the three agents had
passed. With extra caution, he slipped along down the
aisle and darted through a near-by door leading to the
stairs.

* * * * *

Alid was starting to get worried about Qu'tok and
Koo. They had been gone for far too long to be
considered normal, and he wondered if he should not go
in search of them. No, that might only complicate
things, he thought. Still, it might be a wise idea to
start this vehicle just incase a quick getaway was
needed.
His thinking was right, Koo suddenly appearing
down the driveway in as much of a full stride as his
covering would allow.
"What happened?" he asked as Koo frantically
jerked the door open.
"M.I.B.."
"M.I.B. here? What for, and where is Qu'tok?!"
"Qu'tok told me to lead those silly M.I.B. agents
to him, but when I got to where he said, no Qu'tok."
Alid did not like the implications of that. He
put the Landrover into reverse. It was time to leave
and at least get back to Krin with the circuitry film.
Qu'tok can handle himself.
The Rover shot out of it's stall and raced up the
driveway. No sooner had they started rounding a turn,
several Ion burst flashed precariously close behind.
T, Mousse and Shampoo stood at the other end trying to
stop them from escaping. A burst hit the top rear
corner, sending sparks and smoke through the cab. Both
pirates cried out, the rover skidding scrapping the
side as it turned the corner. Koo told Alid to floor
it and he did shooting out into the next level. A
figure suddenly burst out of a side door to bar their
path.
Alid immediately cried out hitting the brakes.
Koo slammed up against the windshield and rocked back
into the seat. He clutched the now shattered nose of
his disguise and rounded angrily on Alid.
"What are you doing? There's three trigger happy
M.I.B. agents on our tail and you're stopping for some
human!"
Alid pointed forward. That human turned out to be
Qu'tok.
"I figured you two would do something like this,"
he scowled walking around to Koo's side of the rover.
"We didn't know where you were, Qu'tok," Alid said
trying to defend their decision. "We--,"
"Save it!" shouted Qu'tok as he climbed in. Koo
retreated to the back as Qu'tok angrily slammed the
door shut. "Get us moving!"
Tires screeched as Alid applied the gas once
again. Around the corner ran Shampoo just in time to
see them zoom away. Desperately she snapped of a shot,
but it was wide blasting a divot out of the concrete
wall. T and Mousse came up.
"Damn, I miss!" cried Shampoo.
T could see they would never catch them now unless
Jay could cut them off. Pulling his commlink he call
desperately for him.
Jay, Tatewaki, Ranma, and Ukyo sat astride two
M.I.B. motorcycles slowly cruising around the street
outside of the back waiting for any sign of Krin's
pirates. Already a large crowd was gathering near the
exits wondering where all the loud explosions were
coming from. Several police cars rolled up further
complicating things. Hearing his commlink beep, Jay
patched it through the mic in the helmet he wore.
[T, what's going on, man? You guys fighting World
War Three down there?]
[No. Krin's people have escaped in a Landrover
and are heading up your way.]
[Well they're going to get out with no problem.
We've got police and civvies out here. Not good if you
know what I mean.]
For the first time he heard T mutter a curse in
frustration. [Okay, Jay. Try to get on their tail and
follow them. Maybe we can trace them back to Krin's
hideout. We'll get to the car and catch up.]
[Right.] said Jay.
A loud screech cut the air startling those on the
street, then out from the garage exit roared the rover
bursting through the blocking arm into the street. Jay
tapped Tatewaki on the shoulder.
"That's our group!" he said.
The motorcycles raced after them.
For an alien, Alid was a surprisingly capable
driver. He skillfully weaved through the traffic
drawing several cries from his companions as they near
missed trucks, cars, and other solid objects in the
street.
"Slow down you idiot!" shouted Qu'tok.
"Can't," replied Alid.
"What! Why not. We've lost those bumbling M.I.B.
agents,"
"Then who's that following us on those two-wheeled
vehicles?"
Qu'tok looked back, growling as he spotted the two
motorcycles racing after them. He rolled his eyes back
in disbelief.
"How do I get in situations like this?" he cried
to the heavens.
"Could be our great luck," said Koo. A sharp slap
to the face silenced him.
Alid turned the rover out onto Ome-Kaido street
hoping to find an open highway and a chance to ditch
their unwanted tail. Instead he found the street
congested with traffic and barely was he able to bring
them to a jolting halt next to a large commuter bus.
"Idea's?" he said to Qu'tok.
Sirens could be heard above the dim, no doubt the
city police responding to all the trouble they had
caused. "Out!" he cried kicking the door open. Like
rats fleeing a sinking ship, the three abandoned their
vehicle running through the traffic. First on the
scene was Ranma and Ukyo, screeching to a stop behind
the now empty rover. Ukyo called his name and pointed
to a figure just reaching the other side of the street.
"This ought to be easy!" said Ranma. He gunned
the engine and guided the motorcycle through the narrow
gaps of the cars in an attempt to catch up with the
fleeing pirates. Suddenly, Alid appeared over the side
of the embankment leveling his weapon at them. Ranma
cried out juking the motorcycle over and they slammed
up against the center divider.
With a groan, Ranma pushed the bike off his leg
and sat up against the concrete. "Ukyo?" he said
looking over to her slowly moving form next to him.
She doffed her helmet and was about to answer when
several bolts chipped up the top of the divider.
Debris flew everywhere driving the two closer to the
street, then a car was hit bursting into flames.
[Hey, Hey, Jay these guys are shooting at us!]
Ranma reported over their circuit.
Jay did not need to see what was happening. He
and Tatewaki could hear the shots and resulting
explosions from their position a few blocks down.
[Hang tight, Satman. We're coming help you guys.]
[Ta'hell with that, we're gonna shoot back!]
[Negative!] called T's voice. [Not while there
are witnesses around.]
More of the concrete shattered around them, people
fleeing their cars to escape the potential death trap.
[I don't think it's going to matter much now, T!]
replied Ranma.
All this time, Jay had been working his way closer
to the fight. He could see none of the cars were
moving now, and mayhem had broken out all across the
street. Spotting a narrow flatbed truck, an idea
popped into his head.
"Hang tight, Tate," he said giving the engine
power.
"What are you going to do?" asked Tatewaki.
"Jump this divider and get around all this
blockage."
"What!" shouted Tatewaki.
His words turned into a long cry as Jay opened the
throttle up as far as he could. M.I.B. technology took
over then, the onboard computer converting the wheels
over into two hoverpads. They shot through the air,
the thrust and added lift from the surface of the
flatbed pushing them over the embankment and onto the
far sidewalk.
Alid had no time to turn his fire on the
approaching hovercycle. He quickly abandoned his
position and scuttled off down the street behind him.
Ukyo leaped over the embankment followed by Ranma in
hot pursuit of their quarry.
Jay brought the hovercycle to a stop. "Watch the
bikes," he told Tatewaki as he dismounted running after
the two.
People cried out as Alid forced his way past not
caring who he hit in his flight. He reached the alley
of two buildings and ran around the corner. Ukyo
reached the edge, but stopped extending a hand to halt
Ranma in his tracks. Jay caught up soon after that.
"Smart move, girl," he said noting the narrow
confines of the alley.
Carefully, she peeked around read for any sudden
strike. Several garbage dumpsters made seeing the
whole length difficult. A perfect place for an ambush,
she inched back.
"Risky," she said to Jay.
"Hey, you know what they say in America," he
replied.
"No, I don't."
"Gotta take a few risk to get ahead."
"Yeah, but it's my head I want to keep on my
shoulders," said Ranma.
Jay moved up to the edge. He quickly darted
around drawing at the same time. Nothing was there to
greet him and he waved Ukyo and Ranma to follow him.
The nearest dumpster provided some cover as Jay made
his way slowly along. Pressing up against it, he
readied himself drawing his blaster up close to his
chest. A quick peek brought no response, then he
motioned Ranma to go ahead.
That wasn't exactly what Ranma wanted to do, but
stepped out pressing up against the wall. He could see
Ukyo kneeling poised ready to cover him if any trouble
started. That was a slight relief and Ranma inched
along. Clearing the dumpster, Ranma started for the
second one when a figure darted out. He took no
chances and dived rolling across the ground.
Shots rang out, burst of energy scorching the side
of the building. Ukyo and Jay quickly returned fire
and the pirated darted back behind the second dumpster
again. It caught the hail of blaster fire Jay and Ukyo
unleashed, quickly potmarked with holes as the burst
cut through its thin sides.
Ranma saw the pirate stagger back. "Freeze!" he
called training his pistol at him. Alid grimaced
pressing up against the building.
"Guy's you can stop shooting, I got him . . .
huh?"
In total shock, Ranma could only stare at Alid as
he started climbing straight up the side of the
building. In seconds the pirate was at the top, Ukyo
and Jay not believing their eyes.
Alid turned giving them a quick wink then
disappeared from view.
"What are we up against?" said Ukyo breaking the
silence.
"I don't know, but it ain't good whatever it is,"
replied Jay.
"Well let's get after it," said Ranma shooting to
his feet.
Jay shook his head. "No, he's long gone by now,
and there's no way we could track him anyway without
the bikes."
That left a bitter feeling in them, but Jay was
right. He thought then started laughing lightly to
himself.
"What's so funny?" asked Ranma.
"He was a decoy," answered Jay. His laughs grew
louder. "We followed him, and I'll bet his two cronies
hot footed it the other way."
"Damn," Ukyo grumbled angrily. "Bunch of suckers
we were."
"Yep. Krin's folks win this round, but we'll run
into them again you can bet on that."

* * * * *

Returning back to the street, traffic was still a
tangled mess and looked to remain so for several hours.
Helicopters were busy taking pictures of the scene for
the afternoon news; police cordoning off the area in an
attempt to bring some sort of order back to the
situation. Through the crowd they could see T, Mousse
and Shampoo casually going along interviewing
witnesses, sanitizing those who'd seen more than they
needed to see.
"Looks like it's clean-up time," Jay said putting
on his shades. "Get the bikes. I'm going to go help T
out."
"We're going to try and flash every one here?"
said Ukyo.
"Gott'a try," he replied. "Bad enough Zed's going
to see this on the six o'clock news. Don't know if I
want to reestablish comms with HQ now."
Ukyo shrugged, not sure who this Zed was that had
Jay so scared. She put on her shades and went to go
help.
Meanwhile, Ranma had gone to bail Tatewaki out of
the large crowd that had formed around him. A rain of
questions were bombarding the beleaguered agent,
questions he was having a hard time answering.
"Hey is this the new Mitsubishi F2000 that's
supposed to be coming out?"
"Uh, yes. We were just, uh . . . testing it of
course."
"What about all that light and those explosions?"
"Mearly . . . part of the, ah . . . introduction.
Special Effects."
"Well my deliveries are way behind because of
this, Pal!"
"Yeah, I had a doctor appointment I missed, who's
going to make up for that?"
"I, uh--,"
"You look like Yakuza! This is some gangster
trick to cover a turf war!"
"Uh--,"
Ranma stepped through the crowd. "Ladies and
Gentlemen please let's not get excited here. We are
from the City Commission for Law and Order and will
explain everything to you shortly."
"To hell with an explanation. I want to get over
to my bank before they close!" shouted an angry driver.
"And you will all be on your way in a few minutes,
but first we have to ah, . . . take pictures for our
record keeping purposes."
"We do?" said a briefly lost Tatewaki. Ranma's
sharp nudge quickly had him back online. They put on
their shades and produced Nuralizers. Several bright
flashes had the surrounding people staring absently
into space.
"Now tell them anything and get out of here,"
Ranma said, picking up the downed bike.
"Like what?" asked Tatewaki.
"I don't know. Tell them there was a gas main
that cracked, a truck has a flat, tell'em anything.
They'll believe you."
"Hmm. In that case I'll tell them of my greatness.
That will be an honor for all to receive."
"We just need a cover, not a bunch of mindless
drones."
Leaving Tatewaki to his work, Ranma rejoined T and
Jay conferring at the side of the road. They were both
upset, casting pained glances around the area.
"So do we like, disappear?" he asked them.
"Magically, no. Physically, yes," answered Jay.
"We better do it fast then. There are more
reporters and police arriving by the second, and I
don't think we have the time to flash all of Shinjuku."
T could see he was right, the rapid flashed from
police cars up the street looked like a wave of molten
lava heading towards them. This would definitely not
sit well with Zed. He signaled to Ukyo, Shampoo and
Mousse motioning that it was time to go. Ukyo made a
final flash then hurried over to Ranma waiting on the
motorcycle. They speed off and T went over to
Tatewaki.
"Jay, take the car back. I'm going to get this
part to Ringo ASAP."
"Right, man. We'll see you back at the crib."
T paused, a brief frown on his face. He shrugged
it of and pulled on the helmet in his hands. Tapping
Tatewaki on the shoulder, they cycled their way through
the gaps in the crown and were gone.
Jay went to retrieve the car and the last two of
his newbies. Shampoo and Mousse were on their way over
to join him when a swift blurred figure hopped out of
the crowd landing in front of them.
"AH-HA!" cried a very angry Cologne startling the
two.
"Great Grandma!" exclaimed Shampoo, darting behind
Mousse.
Mousse laughed nervously. "Why, ah hello there
Cologne," he said giving his collar a nervous tug.
In a flash Cologne's staff smacked both of them
neatly on the side of the head.
"Don't you `hello' me! Why have you two not
returned to your jobs. What are you doing carousing
about the center of Tokyo dressed like a harlot and
dockside thug?"
"Thug! I'll have you know Cologne that we're,
MMMRRRPPPHHH"
Shampoo placed a tight hand over the enraged
Mousse's mouth before he could tell Cologne what they
had become involved in.
"We just go for long walk, Great Grandma," she
said smiling.
"Walk! You have jobs to do back at the restaurant
and you're both abandoning them to walk? Why I'm going
to--,"
"Hey is there something going on I should know
about?" Jay said from behind Cologne. She whirled
staring up at him with a sneer.
"Who is this gajin?" she asked of her two charges.
"That Jay. A friend of ours," answered Shampoo.
Cologne looked him over, then narrowed her eyes.
"So, I see what is going on here. Yakuza trying to
make my granddaughter a call girl, and recruit my
employees."
"Look, Granny. I'm not--,"
"I will not allow it. Take that, you offshore
hood!"
The knobby head of Cologne's staff hit Jay square
in the stomach and he gasped, doubling over.
"Great grandma!" cried Shampoo.
Mousse quickly took hold of the staff before
Cologne could really do any more damage as Shampoo
rushed over to help Jay."
"You all right?"
Jay took in a few breaths. "Oh yeah, fine. Just
a little winded that's all."
He stood back up, then leveled a hard gaze on
Cologne. She and Mousse struggled with the staff,
raging at the man ignoring his attempts to explain what
was going on.
"Hey!" shouted Jay stopping them. "Now, Miss, uh-
-,"
"Great grandma," said Shampoo.
Mousse rolled his eyes. "Cologne," he told Jay.
"Cologne, if you will give me but a short minute
here, I can explain everything to you."
He put on his shades and the other two quickly
understood.
"Now if you'd just look at this red light,
everything will become clear."
Cologne squinted at the light on the Nuralizer.
"How is this thing going to--,"
FOOSH!
Shampoo lifted her shades up and looked at
Cologne. The old woman stood still as a pillar of
marble. Walking over, Shampoo waved her hands before
her eyes.
"Oyi. You stiffen Great Grandma," she said. "I
not think it possible to do."
Mousse clasped his hands together eagerly. "Oh
yes, this is my chance!" he said.
"What'cha gonna do?" asked Jay.
"Make myself a suitor, . . . and a full time
partner," he replied.
A strong stiff arm forced Mousse back; Shampoo
interposing herself between them with eyes narrowed.
"Do not even think about it," she said.
"But Shampoo! Darling! This is our chance to be
rid of that Amazon tradition and be together!"
"Feh, you not worm way into good graces that
easy."
"But Shampoo--,"
"No but. Shampoo not for silly blind-man anyway,
Ranma is."
The broad shoulders of Mousse sagged, Jay feeling
sorry for him. He could not help but notice for a
woman who held no concern, it seemed odd that she would
select the same type of glasses as Mousse did as well
as fashion of clothing.
"Look we need to stop playing around," he said.
"I'll take care of your granny, you two head on back to
the car."
"Yeah, alright," said Mousse dejected for the
moment.
"You not make Great Grandma forget to much, Jay,"
said Shampoo.
"No sweat."
He paused, then started chuckling at the two.
"What so funny?" asked Shampoo.
"You two look like two fugitives from `Tommy'," he
said.
"'Tommy'? What that?"
Jay waved her along. "Go on, girl. I'll be with
you guys in a moment."
The couple departed, Jay kneeling next to the
mesmerized Cologne. "So, Granny. What are we going to
do for you?."

* * * * *

Anxious eyes watch and waited while Ringo worked
duefully behind the main console. His tentacles
reached over the top pulling tools and probes from the
kit, then he finally stood up.
[Gquish Ckoo], he said to T.
"Well this is it," T said.
"Maybe we should just hold off for a few days,"
suggested Jay. "You know, wait until he's done flaming
the top off of M.I.B. Headquarters."
"We can't wait, Jay," said Elle. "We need all the
help we can get to track down Krin."
"Is this Zed person really that bad?" Kasumi asked
Elle seated beside her.
"You ever heard of `Raging Winds'?"
"Yes."
"He's ten times worse."
Kasumi placed a fearful hand to her chest. "Oh,"
she muttered.
Ringo powered up the console and Elle tapped in
the codes to reconnect M.I.B. Tokyo with their parent
command. Above, the main monitor rezzed then a picture
started to fade in. Elle donned a headset and made
voice connection.
[This is M.I.B. Tokyo calling M.I.B. Headquarters,
come in please.]
The picture on the monitor focused and there
seated behind his desk was Zed. The dark expression on
his face told the three primary agents that they were
in for some rough words. Their intimidation was also
felt by the rest of the gang behind them. Even Ranma,
never the one to be cowed easily, felt the sudden urge
to find a nice heavy rock to hide under.
Zed stared at them for a long moment. [Well it is
about time,] he said. The words chaffed their ears.
"Uh, hello . . . Zed?" answered Elle.
[Hello is not the words I am expecting from you.]
"Ooo, are we in for a good skinning," said Jay.
[Not even a Thrawn's face close, Jay,] snarled
Zed. He leaned towards the monitor. [What in the
Spiral Arms of Dega are you three Agents doing!]
Everyone jumped slightly as Zed's furious words
echoed through the control room.
"Ouch, I could feel the heat cut through my body,"
muttered Ryoga.
Zed's eyes cut over to the new agents. His eyes
grew wide. [And who are those people standing behind
you?!]
"This man Chi is powerful," declared Konatsu
staggering a few steps back.
"Well he needs to stop, he's hurting me," said
Akane hugging Ranma's arm tighter.
Zed glared at them, then looked at T. [Well?]
"Uh, yes Zed, we've seem to have a lot of
explaining to do."
[T, I expected better from you, but now I'm
looking at World News Tonight and what do I see?
People rioting in Central Tokyo. New faction of Yakuza
creating mass mayhem for Tokyo Police."
"You see, T. This Yakuza stuff has got to end,
man!" said Jay.
"Not now, Jay."
Zed continued. [Do you know what the worst part
of all this is, people?]
Nobody could answer him.
[I'll show you what the worst part is.]
The screen shifted over to the local new network.
<And here is exclusive footage of the mysterious
`Cameramen' taking pictures of the crowd during Tokyo's
sudden gridlock and--,>
No one was listening to the reporter, their eyes
staring in shock as Jay's image appeared on the screen.
Several other pictures of Ranma, Ukyo and Tatewaki were
shown, then the screen returned to Zed.
[So what do you have to say for yourselves?] he
said.
Elle looked back at Jay. "They got your bad side,
Jay," she said.
"Yeah I know. I'm going to have to go down there
and school them on profile shots."
[Agents!]
"Zed, I can explain," said T. He shot Jay and
Elle a brief glare then quickly updated Zed on their
current status. When he finished, Zed sat quietly
thinking over the information.
[And you think it was wise to allow your
`outsiders' in?] he asked T.
"It was for the best of everyone's interest."
Zed thought some more, then stood up coming around
his desk. [A moment alone,] he said. The others got
the hint and moved away out of earshot. Elle switched
the display to one on the console and the Agents
gathered around.
[T, this is probably the biggest leak M.I.B. has
ever had,] said Zed. [I am not comfortable with your
decision one bit.]
"Zed, what else could we do. Leave those kids to
Krin's mercy,] replied Jay.
"Instead of hearing about a traffic jam, you might
have been hearing a story about a mass massacre in
Nerima," Elle pointed out.
[I said I was not comfortable, people. I did not
say what you did was not without merit. T, Jay, Elle,
this Krin problem has to be shutdown quickly and
quietly. Is that understood?]
"Yes, Zed."
Zed regarded them, wondering if there were to be
anymore surprises to endure in the now not so promising
future. This was going to take careful work covering
up their tracks, but the most important thing to do was
get Krin before he strikes again. The picture was
returned to the main screen and Jay called the gang
back over.
[So, Miss Tendo. You seem to be a hot item for
Krin,] Zed said to Akane.
She peered out from behind Ranma. "I really wish
I knew why," she answered him.
"So what about the information we passed to you?"
Elle asked.
[Oh. Good point, Elle. We ran a scan and it
turns out your polymorph lifeform fits the profiles of
the Mocabians out in Zignus Gamma Xion.]
"That's just around the corner and down the street
for you folks not in the know," joked Jay to the
others.
"Yeah right, ha, ha, funny," snapped Ranma.
Zed cleared his throat ending any further chatter.
[We contacted the Mocabian Emirate, and they have
expressed great concern over your report.]
"So Krin was after something of importance to
their Government," said Elle.
[Not just their government, but their Royal
Household. You see, The current ruler is about to be
replaced by his heir who was being raised on one of
their planets in another quadrant. The barge carrying
him to their homeworld has not reported in as
scheduled.]
"So we put two and two together and come up with
Krin," said Tsubasa.
[It all fits. The Mocabians are sending a
battlegroup to our galaxy to search for their Regent.]
"Uh oh," Elle suddenly said.
[Problems, Elle?]
"There might be. It looks like Krin captured the
polymorph yesterday. That's why we're not sure why
he's so interested in Akane."
[Captured? I find that hard to believe.]
"Why?" asked T.
[Because the Regent had gone into hibernation
pending merger with his elder host. The Guardian
transporting him should--,]
Zed stopped, noting the astonishment that had
appeared on the faces of the agents in M.I.B. Tokyo.
[Did I say something wrong?] he asked.
"Not wrong, Zed," answered Elle.
"You did say `Guardian'?" asked Jay.
[Yes.]
"That's what I thought you said."
Slowly, everyone turned towards Ranma. He
smirked, glancing around.
"Hey, hey, don't look at me. I wasn't there that
night!"
His own words made him paused, then he noticed
another fact. Akane was not latched on to his arm
anymore.
He turned around to find her sitting dolefully in
a chair, peering sheepishly at the floor. The silence
was to much and Akane looked up.
"I . . . think I want to go home now!" she said
darting for the exit.
"FREEZE!" shouted Kasumi, bringing her to a
screeching halt.
T faced the screen again. "Zed, we're going to
have to sign off for a short while and check out a
hunch."
[Let me know what you come up with,] replied Zed.
The screen went blank.
A strange agitation could be seen in Akane as the
agents moved around her. Elle smiled placing a
friendly arm around her shoulders.
"I, I didn't do anything," Akane said.
"Of course not, Akane," replied Elle. "But let's
go down to sickbay. I'd like to check out that
`heartburn' of yours."

* * * * *

Up in one of the corners of the control room, a
small black insect like object monitored the happenings
below. It relayed it's findings to its kin stationed
strategically about, every word being transmitted back
to its master. It did not care what was being said.
Its one blind ambition, one driving factor the last
orders given.
Watch and report. Nothing less, nothing more.
The beings below started heading out of the room.
With a quick burst of energy, the Listener passed the
alarm on along their private network, then glided down
to follow.

* * * * *

There were no words to describe what everyone in
sickbay was thinking right about now. In the center of
the room, Akane Tendo lay sandwiched between two glass-
like screens of an examination table. Her insides were
virtually exposed for all to see, but what they found
was definitely not part of her current anatomy.
"What-is-that?" said Ukyo.
The area around Akane's chest and sternum were
blurred out by a bright oval shaped object. A smaller
oval set at the top, and a multitude of appendages
extended out like roots through her body. Elle arched
a brow while zooming the view in closer.
"I would say that is the Regent," she said.
"It looks like a giant Ginseng Root," commented
Konatsu.
"Whatever it is, we've got to get it out of her,"
said Tatewaki.
"No," Elle replied shaking her head.
"Why not, Elle," said Jay. "We can protect it
better now that we know where it is."
"That's not why I'm objecting." She pointed to
one of the stalks. "These appendages are like a second
nervous system. Akane and the Regent have somehow been
grafted together."
"Meaning?" asked Nabiki.
"They are sharing the same consciousness.
Extracting the Regent without knowing how, or what kind
of after effects it will have on them could be fatal."
"So they must stay together?" said Kasumi.
"For right now, yes."
Ranma moved up next to the table and stared at the
display. He looked down on Akane's face and their eyes
met. She smiled, Ranma leaning close.
"Why didn't you tell us?" he asked.
Akane's brows twitched, then her expression
wavered. "I was scared," replied the strange tremolo
voice.
Elle move up to the other side. "You've nothing
to fear from us. We're here to protect you."
"But what about the pirates? Krin?"
"Krin ain't doing nothing without having to go
through us first," declared Jay.
"Yeah, I'd like to see him show up again," added
Ryoga. "I owe him a good thrashing."
The Regent/Akane looked around at the people
around her. "Thank you," they said.
"No prob. You in good hands with M.I.B.," said
Jay.
"This does make protecting the Regent easier," T
said. "Krin is still in the dark as to where he is,
and that gives us an advantage."
"How's that?" asked Nabiki.
T rubbed his chin, thinking hard. "Krin will
probably try to attack us again here. Let's oblige
him."
"You want him to attack us?" asked Ranma.
"Yes."
That did not sit well even with Jay, Elle, and
Ringo.
"Yo, T. I'm not one to objet to most sensible
things, but Krin and his boys pack a lot of firepower.
In our current shape he's got a good chance of pulling
an attack off even if we are ready for him."
"I don't think this building or the surrounding
ones are ready for the mini disaster you're proposing,"
said Elle.
[Drrytki Hambaba,] Ringo said.
T held up his hands to settle them down. "Krin is
after Akane right?" Everyone nodded. "Well he cannot
get to Akane if Akane is not here."
The agents thought about it for a moment, then it
became cleared what T was about to do.
"So where do we keep Akane while this is all going
down?" asked Kasumi.
T smiled. He slowly walked over to Ranma and
placed friendly hands on his shoulders. "That I'll
leave up to our Guardian here."
"Me?"
"You are her Guardian if I remember the term
correctly."
Ranma was quiet. He was not sure he could protect
Akane from Krin, and if the pirates managed to discover
their whereabouts it would be certain that Akane would
not escape.
"I guess I could--,"
T stopped him. "I don't want to know," he said.
"If we do fail to capture Krin, I don't want anyone
here to know where you are. It would be better that
way."
Ranma agreed. "What about our watches?"
Elle reached down and hit a button on Ranma's
watch. "It's off now. Any trouble, you turn it back
on and we'll come running."
"Right, but I'm going to take Konatsu along just
in case."
"I go with Ranma!" exclaimed Shampoo.
"No, I will!" shouted Ukyo.
Ranma stopped them. "It's better if Konatsu and I
go alone, girls. Besides, There's going to be a need
for everyone here when Krin does show."
The issue was settled, although Shampoo and Ukyo
did not like Ranma running off with Akane. "When do we
leave?" asked Konatsu.
"As soon as Elle gets Akane off the table,"
replied T.
"Good," said Akane, now in her normal voice. "I
need some water anyway."
"This is perfect," said Jay. "We got Akane safe
and sound, and Krin is about to get the ass kicking of
his life."
"Let's just hope he shows soon," said Elle.
"I believe he will show up," T said. "This is the
only place he can go."
Elle unstrapped Akane from the table. She
immediately retook her familiar spot on Ranma's arm,
hugging it tight. He smiled, patting her hand
affectionately. That made both her and the Regent feel
secure.
"Come on Konatsu. Let's get going," he said.
"Hey, guys," called Jay as they headed for the
exit. "Look man, be careful. Find a place to hide and
stay there."
"How will we know when its safe to return?" asked
Ranma.
"Watch the news," replied T. He pointed up
towards the ceiling, Konatsu and Ranma quickly
understanding.
"Gatch'a boss," said Ranma. "And don't worry
gang, Krin won't even get a glimpse of Akane's face.
Just lay a few hammers on him for us, okay."
"He's dog meat," said Mousse.
The trio waved good-bye and left the room.

* * * * *

Krin was pleased.
Seated in his chair, the pirate leader sat humored
by the comments being relayed by Qu'tok's Listeners.
Around him, most of his crew sat waiting to hear what
Krin had planned.
He smiled, the covering of skin stretching back
into an insidious mask of pointed teeth.
"I've never seen you like this before, Krin," said
Morea.
"This is excellent," he replied. "Qu'tok, your
units have proven to be quite useful."
"I hate to admit this, but I could not have done
it without Koo's stupid foray."
Krin laughed. Glancing back, he stared at his
hapless crewman lying prostrate inside a large round
holding area. The atmosphere had been turned up
several levels, pressing down on Koo with just enough
force to make him uncomfortable without doing any real
damage.
Teq clicked his tongue. "Krin, can we let him out
now? I think he's had enough."
"No," snarled Krin turning back around. Looking
up at the main screen, he watched a blue dot moving
through the overhead layout of Tokyo. One of Qu'tok's
Listeners had attached itself to Ranma and was quietly
marking their position.
"Look at them," said Krin. "As I said before,
overconfident in the face of superior forces. Such
fools."
"So what do we do now?" asked Binimi.
"Qu'tok, how far along is Alid in replacing the
filaments?"
"He's reconnecting them now, however; we still
have to run a current through them to check for
conductivity levels."
"And how long will that take?"
"Seven, maybe eight bises tops."
"Cut it short. We will need full power to extract
the Regent from Akane Tendo."
"That will kill her, Krin."
Krin looked over, an evil leer set in his eyes.
"So?" he replied.
Qu'tok shrugged. "Okay, but if the circuits fail
don't blame us."
Thinking, Krin stared up at the screen once more.
"Qu'tok, you stay here with Alid and Koo. Finish what
repairs are needed, then prep the ship for departure.
The rest of us will go and retrieve Tendo and her
escorts."
"Why do we need the other two?" asked Morea.
"Got to have something to snack on while enroute
to the Planetarium. Tendo is to small even for you."
He let out a low laugh that slowly built in volume
as the rest of the pirates joined in.

















Facing the Bad Guys....
-------------------------------------------------------------- -----------------


Part Six

Boom, Boom, Sha-Boom!


Seated inside a large movie theater, Ranma, Akane,
and Konatsu waited for the show to begin. As the rest
of the audience filed in, Konatsu gazed around
apparently confused before turning to look over at
Ranma.
"So are you going to tell me why we are here?" he
asked.
Ranma patiently opened his box of Chocolate Sesame
dip sticks, taking a bite before answering. "I figure
that Krin has a better chance of finding us if we check
into any motels."
"In Tokyo? Ranma there must be over fifty Hotels,
not to mention all the other Hostels and Youth Centers.
Krin is not going to search every one of them in one
day."
"Yes he will, he's already proven that. I also
figure he and his cronies can find a way into the
Internet."
"And?"
Ranma shrugged. "All they have to do is a search
for our names and next thing we know, unannounced room
service."
"We use fake names."
"Right. You have a fake I.D. card too?"
Konatsu shook his head and sat back. "How about
going back to my place?"
"Nope. Krin found Akane's address, what's to say
he doesn't have yours?"
That much was true. Konatsu could only agree and
slumped down in his seat trying to get comfortable. "I
just do not like being this much exposed. It is too
risky."
Ranma leaned forward. "How is Krin going to find
us? He can't, so relax. You don't see Akane having
any problems with this."
Seated between the two men, Akane sat holding two
2 liter cups of water in her lap silently listening to
the conversation as she slurped on the straws.
"How are you doing?" Ranma asked her.
Akane paused, then drew the straws from her mouth.
"I am fine, Guardian," she replied.
Ranma jumped not ready for the change. Drawing in
a breath, he leaned close again. "Say uh, could you
like give use a heads up when you're going to do that?
I'm not used to the Jekyl and Hyde routine."
"I'm sorry, Guardian."
Akane blinked, then she turned her head sharply
around to him. "Stop it, Ranma. He doesn't know any
better, okay."
"Alright, alright," replied Ranma.
Another twitch, Akane's expression dropping.
"Guardian, where are we?" asked the Regent.
"We are about to watch a movie," answered Ranma.
"Movie . . . some form of visual stimulus?"
Ranma laughed. "Yeah, I guess you can say that."
"What are we watching?"
"Akane?"
"Who else?"
Konatsu reached into a pocket and produced his
ticket stub. "It's a foreign movie. `Lethal Weapon
Six: Another Case of Mayhem'. Hmm, this might prove to
be interesting."
The lights in the theater dimmed. Akane reached
over and gently tugged on Ranma's sleeve.
"Ranma, are you sure we're safe here?"
"Of course, Akane. There's no way Krin can find
us. Now relax and enjoy the show."
Akane tried to relax, but something pressed at the
back of her mind, a feeling that they should leave
before it was too late. The movie started, and she
forced it away settling lower into her seat.

* * * * *

Zed listened to T's update on their status, and of
the trap they had planned for Krin when he arrived.
[Okay, T. Good job, Agents. You handled this one
well for being on such limited resources.] he said.
"Hey, Zed-man. You've got the premier team on the
scene," said Jay. "Nothin wrong can happen now."
[Don't speak too soon, Agent J. The Mocabians are
concerned about the Regent.]
"As well they should be," replied Elle.
[It's more than that, Elle. When I told them that
the Regent had been transferred from his carrier, they
went into a mild state of panic.]
"Why?"
[The Mocabian lifeform cannot handle certain
environments, one being our very own planet.]
"I don't follow you, Mister Zed," said Kasumi.
"If the Mocabian is a protoplasmic life, then Earth
should be an ideal place for them."
[For short periods, uhm?]
"Kasumi."
[Yes, Kasumi. You see they need a certain
humidity factor to maintain the liquid portions of
their bodies.]
"Well that explains why Akane was drinking all
that water," said Ukyo.
Kasumi appeared to be worried all of a sudden.
"Kasumi, is there something wrong?" asked Elle.
"There might be. I noticed that Akane was
drinking increasingly large amounts of water over the
past few hours."
"You think that could be a problem, big-sister?"
Nabiki said.
"Well . . . if Mister Zed's information holds
true, then I think it was a mistake to send Akane out
like we did."
T could see Zed's brows furrowing together.
Quickly, Elle went over to the computer. After several
minutes, she drew back clearly stunned.
"She's right," Elle finally said.
"What is it, Elle?" asked T.
"I input Kasumi's observations into the medical
computer. Based on our previous scan of the Regent and
Akane's metabolisms . . . it appears that they both are
dying and fast."
Groans passed through the agents at the turn of
events.
"This is great, this is just great!" exclaimed
Ryoga.
"And how are we going to find Ranma?" asked
Kodachi. "They shut off their watches."
[So, Jay. Nothing can go wrong, eh?] said Zed.
"Alright, Zed. We just made a slight mistake
that's all."
[Slight mistake? Did I mention that the Mocabian
fleet will be over Tokyo in . . . four hours?]
"No, but I guess it's too late to complain," said
Tatewaki.
Zed twitched ready to unleash on him, but T
quickly drew his attention.
"We will find them before they arrive, Zed," he
said.
"We will?" said Jay. Elle kicked him in the leg.
[Please do, T. If the Regent is not there and
unharmed, Tokyo might not exist in the near future.]
"We will not fail."
Zed's eyes drifted across them, then the screen
went blank. A sigh of relief went through the agents,
but only for a short moment.
"Man, I cannot believe our luck!" said Jay.
"Well it was a good plan up until now," Ryoga said
to T. "Now what?"
"We'll have to search the city," replied T.
"I repeat Evil Kuno's question, T. How we find
Ranma?" said Shampoo.
"Blind luck, Shampoo," he replied.
"That's not very good, boss," Mousse said. "I'm
an expert at that and I know it's not a good thing to
be relying on."
"Okay, standing here won't help us find Akane,"
Nabiki said. "Let's do something now before Krin shows
up to add even more trouble to this problem and--,"
Nabiki paused to squint at something in the
strands of Mousse's dark hair. "And kill all of them
in the process," she finished while moving over to him.
Without warning, Nabiki lashed out smacking Mousse
at the side of the head. He yelled, drawing back.
"Hey, what did I do!?"
Nabiki stamped a foot down on the floor. "Looks
like M.I.B. Tokyo will be needing an exterminator in
the future," she said.
They all looked at the crushed remains of the
insect. Ringo shot out of his chair, forced his way
through them and knelt close to it.
[Wilytokee Kludifcu!!!] he exclaimed looking back
to T.
"What!" he shouted.
[Deekulyiid!]
T stood up looking frantically around the room.
Jay frowned.
"Yo, T. What's up?"
"That was a bug Nabiki just killed," answered T.
Confused looks were exchanged between the others.
"Yeah, and?"
T spun around. "Not a bug bug, Jay. A Bug, as in
eavesdrop."
Elle knelt down next to the crushed remains. It
certainly did not look like an species she had ever
seen on earth. "Krin," she muttered.
"Search the room!" cried Jay and the agents
scattered. They clambered over consoles peering over
and between the fixtures in the Command Center.
Mousse, shimmying up a pole to the overhead lights,
suddenly let out a call.
"Hey, I got one up here!"
The small dark Listener immediately darted across
the room in a blur as knives, spatulas, books and
anything else streaked up towards it. Just short of
the door a thick sticky appendage caught it up, jerking
the Listener into Ringo's open mouth. A sharp crunch
and chew ended its life.
"Nice catch, Ringo my-man," said Jay.
[Okkiee Taka, Lilieekiou.]
"Yeah, yeah, whatever."
Ukyo suddenly let out a shriek. "I got one!" she
shouted, chasing another listener out of it's niche
under a chair. A quick toss of a spatula sliced it in
half.
"T, this is going to take us all day," said Elle.
"We've got to find Ranma before Krin does."
"Right," said T. "Everyone check each other. We
can't take the chance that one of these bugs are on
us."
"You think one of those things would be stupid
enough to touchdown on one of us?" asked Jay.
A sharp slap from Elle at the base of Jay's neck
sent him staggering. "Yow, Elle! What'cha doing,
woman?"
Elle grabbed Jay by the back of his collar. She
turned the lapel up and the remains of a Listener fell
to the floor.
"That answer your question?" she said.
The rest of the agents quickly checked each other
out, finding several more hiding amongst them.
"That bastard Krin," snarled Tatewaki as he nursed
a small lump on his head. "I cannot wait to get my
hands on him."
T was furious. If the Listeners were on them,
then two to one Ranma, Konatsu, or Akane had been
bugged as well.
"Ringo, sweep the rest of M.I.B. . Everybody else
take a section of the city and start searching for
Ranma."
"T, that's a lot of ground to cover," said
Tsubasa.
"Then let's not delay," he replied running for the
exit.

* * * * *

Explosions wracked the large screen, gunfire and
cries echoing around the theater. Ranma flinched
sharply as yet another rip of machine-gun fire traced
after one of the heroes in the movie. He blinked
slightly amazed by all of the action foreign films
could deliver. Nothing like some of the ones he'd seen
here, but nevertheless quite an impact.
Looking over to see how his current charge was
doing, Ranma found Akane staring transfixed at the
screen. Her mouth hung slightly agape, eyes wide as
two saucers.
"Akane?" he whispered giving her a slight nudge.
Akane blinked, then looked over.
"What?"
"You looked lost. Are you two okay?"
"Well I for one can't help but wonder how anyone
can believe such silliness, but the Regent I believe is
having the time of his life."
A flutter of eyelids told Ranma that the Regent
was in control now.
"Guardian, are you humans always in such turmoil?"
"Uh, no. This is all just make believe, your
Highness. Entertainment."
The Regent/Akane gazed back up at the screen.
"Certainly exciting. I could learn to enjoy this."
Ranma snickered, humored by the Regent's comments.
Tipping slightly forward, he watched Konatsu studying
the movie with close interest.
"Well, what do you think, Konatsu?"
Konatsu arched a brow. "This Mel Gibbson's style
is awkward. His kicks are slow, and he lacks grace and
flow."
"And the movie?"
"Humorous. I would have subdued the villain by
now."
Ranma shook his head sitting back. "Never ask a
Ninja to critique an action film," he sighed.
The film was nearing it's climax drawing the
attention of the trio. So caught up were they that
they missed the movement in the chairs behind them.
Something pressed up against the back of Ranma's chair.
Probably the foot of the person behind him, he chanced
a quick glance back not wanting to miss to much of the
film.
The face that greeted him sent his blood cold.
"Hello, Ranma," said Krin, grinning broadly.
"Krin," he gasped.
Konatsu and Akane heard him, heads snapping
around. Konatsu started to move, but a sharp prick to
the side of his neck by Binimi's tongue stopped him.
He shuddered then slumped down in the chair. Akane let
out a short moan, the only thing she could do before
Glator's slight flick of a finger to the back of the
head rendered her unconscious.
Ranma stared at his disabled friends unable to
help them.
"So, Ranma. I believe you humans have a saying.
What is it . . . ah yes, Checkmate," said Krin.
Ranma placed his free hand on his watch and
activated it moments before a sharp jolt of electricity
sent him off to join his friends.
"Careful, Morea," commented Krin. "I don't want
him cooked. Not yet."
"We have them now. Let's go," Teq said.
"Wait," replied Krin. He stared up at the screen
for a moment. "This is interesting. I'd like to see
how this image ends."
"What if M.I.B. catches up to us?" asked Binimi.
"They will not. Now be quiet. Humans are being
killed."
Binimi and Morea traded looks, then shrugged
sitting back to watch the rest of the movie.

* * * * *

Jay strained to see through the crowds walking
around the streets of central Tokyo hoping to catch
even a glimps of a familiar face. T guided the car at
a moderate pace down the road; in back Nabiki and
Kasumi monitored their scanners in case one of the
three activated their watches. The rest of the gang
had spread out over the entire Shinjuku/Central Tokyo
districts in a valiant attempt to find their three
friends. Unfortunately, Ranma had done his work well
and everyone knew that time was running out fast.
"We ain't gonna find Saotome like this," said Jay
sitting back in frustration.
"Don't give up yet, Jay," replied T.
"I'm afraid Jay is right, T," said Nabiki. "This
is futile. I have to say this, but our best bet is to
hope Ranma has a reason to reactivate his watch."
Jay looked back. "You mean hope Krin finds them?"
She shrugged. "As much as I hate to admit it,
yes."
"Krin is only after Akane now, Nabiki," said T.
"He might kill Ranma and Konatsu for revenge."
"It's for revenge that he won't. Not right away
at least. If he's all this evil demented character
you've painted for us, then no doubt he's going to take
them as well as Akane."
"Are we speaking from experience?" asked Jay.
Nabiki noted the light giggle from Kasumi,
smirking at her. "Not experience. I just happen to be
familiar with these type of characters."
"Hmm. I see now. You're just as much of a pirate
as Krin is."
"I am not!" exclaimed Nabiki, stiffening at the
insult. She started to protest, then paused to think a
moment.
"I prefer Entrepreneur, thank you very much."
Jay snickered peering back out the front window.
He pondered Nabiki's theory. "Say T, Nabiki could be."
"Do you think Krin has them?"
Kasumi's scanner suddenly started beeping.
"Oh goodness," she muttered.
Nabiki peered over, a solemn expression written on
her face. "Looks like I was right," she said, taking a
hard swallow.
"Where are they?" asked T.
"They're moving," replied Kasumi. "West, towards
the foothills."
"Fuji?" said Jay giving T a knowing look.
"Nabiki, get online with the others. Tell them to
head for the Onashi Observatory. We'll meet them
there."
As Nabiki did as instructed, T wheeled the car
around the next street, heading for the highway.
Kasumi updated the position of Ranma and T shook his
head.
"We don't have a chance of intercepting them
anytime soon. Krin's lead is to great," said T. "Our
only chance now is to gather our forces, then close in
before they can lift-off in their ship."
"Then why are we going back to the observatory?"
asked Jay.
"Most likely Krin's ship is hidden somewhere's
close by."
"Is that a hunch?"
T nodded.
"As long as Ranma's watch is on, we'll be able to
track Krin."
"Krin is no fool. He'll discover Saotome's
tracker soon enough. Let's hope it's not before we are
close enough to pick up the lead without it."
Jay was right and T felt the urgency rush through
him as he increased speed.

* * * * *

It was a bright gleam of light that greeted Ranma
from his involuntary slumber. He felt dizzy, unable to
orient himself, wondering what had happened. Slowly,
things started to come back to his mind. Ah yes, the
last thing he recalled was being seated inside a movie
theater watching some foreign film, Akane and Konatsu--
.
Akane?
Konatsu?
. . . Krin!
Abruptly, Ranma sat up immediately wavering as
blood rushed through his temples. Looking around, he
found himself lying at the center of a large round pad;
Konatsu a short distance across from him. The room
around them appeared to be a kind of control room not
unlike the command center back at M.I.B. Tokyo. He
heard a short whine and peered back over his shoulder.
Akane lay on a flat table with some sort of
glowing bubble surrounding her body. He could see her
wriggling about trying to escape, but her effort proved
futile. A mechanical arm slid into position above her,
it's steely sharp tips gleaming under the light
centered on her. Krin and the rest of his pirates
stood around the room watching with expectant glee as
their leader prepared to do his work.
"Akane!" cried Ranma leaping to his feet.
Krin turned away from the controls. "So, Ranma.
I see you have recover just in time to witness our
extraction of the Regent from your pitiful female."
"Get away from her!" shouted Ranma.
Akane let out a moan. "Guardian!" she wailed.
"Hold on your highness . . . Akane. I'll get you
out of there in a moment!"
That brought a laugh from Krin and his crew,
angering Ranma even further. He charged towards them
ready to fight the whole lot, but upon reaching the
edge ran into something hard. He bounced back tumbling
to the floor.
What the hell, he wondered while shaking away the
pain. Carefully, Ranma crawled back over to the edge.
He reached out and his hand pressed up against an
invisible force field. The pirates laughter increased;
Krin walking over to him.
"Stupid, Ranma. You would think I would allow you
an opportunity to interfere with my plans?"
"I swear, Krin. If you so much as hurt either of
them in the least bit, I'm going to pound you into
nothing!"
The toothy grin returned. "I do not foresee this
happening at anytime. You would do well to keep your
threats back, Ranma. Once we are on our way to the
Planetarium, I have another difficult choice to make."
"What choice?"
"Weather or not to eat you alive, or dead."
Ranma drew back.
"I knew that would get your attention. Now if you
will excuse me, I must go and finish preparing Akane
for extraction."
Ranma pressed up against the force field again.
"Krin! Krin don't you do this!"
"Be silent, Ranma," replied Krin.
It was no good Ranma realized. Unless the rest of
M.I.B. arrived soon the Regent would be in Krin's
hands, and the three of them garnishing some alien
dish. Frantically, he looked around trying to find any
small clue that would get them out of this trap. Ranma
spotted their weapons and nuralizers on a smaller table
across the room. He could see the watches among them.
A light glow from one told him that Krin still did not
know that they were being tracked. Now if the others
thought to check the scanners, rescue might be
possible. It would still take some time, and who knows
if they had seen his alarm or not.
Kneeling next to Konatsu, he began shaking him.
"I've got to stall for time," Ranma muttered to
himself. "Lets just hope it's enough."

* * * * *

The urgency of the situation had the agents
gathered at the Onashi observatory in rapid time. T's
hunch was not far from the mark and they soon found
themselves standing at the edge of a wide field freshly
plowed for next seasons planting. Two cars sat
abandoned at the side and their initial scan of
lifeforms verified that the pirates had been there.
Jay peered across the ground through a pair of
binoculars, then brought them down turning to Nabiki.
"Are you sure that tracker is here?" he asked her.
Nabiki held the portable scanner up rechecking the
coordinates. "Yep. This is the place."
"There's nothing here," said Ukyo.
Elle took the binoculars from Jay giving the field
another look. "T, Krin's ship was too large to be
missed by anybody," she said. "You think he's using a
cloaking device?"
T remained quiet for a moment. He studied the
terrain then shook his head. "No. The energy readings
would be higher."
"So where are they?" wondered Tatewaki.
Shampoo peered over Nabiki's shoulder at the
screen. "Funny blinking dot say Ranma, Akane, and
Konatsu here in field, but Shampoo not see how."
"So what's our next course of action?" asked
Ryoga.
Jay drew his blaster, powering it up. "Only one
thing left, and that's going out there," he said
gesturing ahead.
They spread out, forming a skirmish line along the
edge of the field. Weapons were powered up; Jay
glancing up and down the line checking to see if
everybody was ready. Next to him, Kasumi powered up
the Pulse Energy Rifle.
"You gonna be able to handle that, Kasumi?" he
said watching as the tri-barreled rifle cycled.
Kasumi slung the rifles strap over one shoulder.
"I'm fine, Mister Jay."
"Oh-kay," replied Jay. He looked over at T
gaining a nod, then at Elle. She flashed him a thumb
up.
"Well as the Duke would say, YO!"
They started out across the field.

* * * * *

"GUARDIAN!" Akane's adopted tremolo voice cried up
to the overhead. Around her, Krin, Binimi, and Morea
positioned the instruments for the operation as Qu'tok
ran a final scan over her body.
Inside their strange prison, Ranma and Konatsu
took turns ramming their bodies up against the
invisible wall, desperately trying to break through.
Another attempt had Konatsu floundering back on the
floor.
Ranma knelt next to him. "Konatsu?"
Konatsu slowly looked up at him. "Ranma, I do not
think we are going to get through that anytime soon,"
he said.
"We've got to keep trying. Akane and the Regent's
lives are at stake!"
Another cry from Akane brought Ranma around. "Be
with you in just a moment, Akane."
"Ranma, do something!" shouted Akane.
Krin chuckled. "I do not think he's going to be
able to save you, Akane Tendo."
Akane glared up at him. "You won't get away with
this, Krin! M.I.B. will see to that."
"This resistance is admirable," said Binimi. "For
such a small morsel, you do put up a good fight."
Ranma slammed an angry fist against the barrier.
"Krin. Damn it don't do this!"
"And like I said before, Ranma. Why?"
"Because . . . because it's wrong that's why!"
"Oh yeah. That is really going to stop him,"
muttered Konatsu.
"What do you want me to say!" Ranma shouted at
him.
Krin smirked. "Stupid theory, Ranma," he said
continuing his preparations. "You just don't know how
much credit we have to gain from holding the Regent."
"Look, if this credit is anything like money, I'm
sure M.I.B. can make it worth your while not to hurt
them."
That stopped Krin. The notion alone was worth
considering. What a reputation he would gain.
Extorting credit from the Galaxies prime law
enforcement agency, what a--. Krin shook the thought
from his mind.
"M.I.B. would not do such a thing, Ranma. I do
wish you would stop delaying me. It's starting to get
annoying."
"Hey, how do you know? We want them both back in
one piece. Otherwise the Mocabian fleet that's coming
here might just incinerate Tokyo."
Krin spun. "Mocabian fleet? Coming here now?"
"Yep. Should be here soon."
Lost expressions covered the pirates faces,
stunned by the news. Konatsu suddenly kicked Ranma
hard at the back of the leg. He let out a cry, taking
Konatsu up by the collar.
"What's that for?" he growled low.
"You idiot," Konatsu snapped back. "Why did you
tell them that?"
"I had to tell them something!"
"That was not the thing to tell them, Ranma. Did
you think that Krin might decide to leave now and cut
Akane open once we've left Earth?"
Ranma paused. He arched a brow, cutting his eyes
to one side for a moment. "I'm hoping he'll stall long
enough for the rest of the gang to find us. My tracker
is on."
"Ranma, the Mocabians are a good two hours away by
my guess. Krin's not going to stall for that long."
"Then we'll try something else."
"In here?"
Ranma and Konatsu looked over to the pirates.
They were grouped around the operating table in intense
conversation.
"Our current condition will not allow us to fight
off the Mocabians, Krin," Qu'tok said.
"We need to go and right now," added Morea.
"I don't recommend that," said Alid.
"Why not?" asked Krin.
"I set the levels as Qu'tok instructed, but if we
try to run without D'skta's full support, we risk
blowing the engines apart."
Frowning, Krin turned to his crewman. "What does
that have to do with anything?"
Binimi spoke up. "Alid is right, Krin. You
cannot attempt to extract the Regent from Tendo without
the help of the computer."
Krin growled. He narrowed his eyes glancing over
to Qu'tok. "Is this true?"
"I'm afraid so, Krin. Reaching the Planetarium
with the Regent still inside Tendo is not wise. They
are already showing signs of expiration. I do not
think either of them will arrive alive."
That small bit of news only upset Krin further.
He gnashed his teeth, stifling the cry he wanted to let
out. After a moment, he regained control of himself.
"D'skta!"
[Yes, mighty one.]
"Knock off the comedy, D'skta! Conduct a star
scan of the surrounding sectors and be quick about it!"
The computer laughed while it worked, stopping
abruptly as its sensors picked up the emissions of
several ship approaching Earth.
[Krin, we are in serious trouble,] reported
D'skta.
"How long D'skta?"
[46 Biases, give or take a few.]
"Ranma, what's a `Biases'?" Konatsu whispered.
Ranma shook his head. "I don't know, but
hopefully it means sooner than expected."
Taking in the information, Krin weighed his
options carefully.
"Qu'tok, the operation we are about to conduct.
Is there any way to shorten the procedures?"
"Why yes there is, Krin. Several ways in fact."
"And with the Mocabians just a short distance out,
how many of them would we need to omit to gain control
of the Regent alive?"
Qu'tok made several calculations before answering.
"Just one. Step two."
"Leaving us with--?"
"More than enough time to lift off and depart
before the Mocabians could turn any weapons on us."
Krin clapped his hands together. "Let us begin
then."
Akane looked frantically back and forth between
the two pirates. "Wait. What's is this step two
you're skipping!" she cried.
Leaning closer, Krin arched his brows humorously
at her. "Oh, it's not really an important step for us
to succeed, Akane Tendo."
"It isn't?"
"Of course not."
"So what part is it?" asked Ranma.
"The Anethsesia phase," answered Krin.
"RANMA!" cried Akane.
"Krin, don't you do it!" shouted Ranma again,
beating his fist against the force field.
"No more delays!" announced Krin. With a sweep of
a hand all the sounds coming from Ranma and Konatsu's
desperate attempts of escape were muffled. Akane began
to cry, straining harder against the field.
Taking up a long, wicked looking blade Krin smiled
evilly down on his helpless victim. "You won't feel a
thing, your majesty," he said inching the blade closer
to Akane's chest.
"What about me!" cried Akane.
"Oh, you'll feel everything, but hey even I have
to have some fun on this trip."
The blade passed through the restraining field,
pressing down on Akane. A short swipe cut away the
buttons of her shirt, exposing her breast. Akane
clenched her eyes tight waiting for the first sting of
pain. As Krin placed the cold metal against her skin,
D'skta suddenly called to him.
[Krin,] said the computer.
"Not now, D'skta. Can't you see I'm busy!"
[Oh. Then I suppose the M.I.B. agents approaching
the ship are of no consequence then?]
"WHAT!"
Krin drew away from the table, spinning around to
face the main screen. D'skta anticipated his command,
displaying a view of the surrounding field and the line
of agents moving towards them.
"How?" stammered Krin too stunned to do much more
for the moment.
Qu'tok rubbed his chin. He glanced over at Ranma
and Konatsu, letting out a low hum. Quietly, he walked
over to the table where their equipment lay. A brief
once over found his attention locked on Ranma's watch.
It out of all the others was the only one on and he
smirked.
"Very good, Saotome," said Qu'tok.
"What have you found?" demanded Krin.
"He used our own trick on us," replied Qu'tok.
Holding it up for all of them to see, Qu'tok's hand
closed around the watch crushing it to pieces. Ranma
and Konatsu took fearful swallows as the pirates
approached.
Krin glared at them hard.
"Not wise, Ranma," he said.
"What do we do about other agents?" asked Teq.
"Crush them!" declared Glator.
"No," said Krin. He paused looking back up at the
screen. "Yes."
"Fight now?" questioned Morea. "Krin, we have got
to be moving on before the Mocabians get here!"
"I know, Morea. Qu'tok is there still time to
greet our soon to be new guest?"
Chuckles emanated from Qu'tok, enjoying the idea.
"Depends on how long it takes to round them up," he
replied.
"Should not take long," replied Krin. "Morea,
you, Glator, Alid, and Koo prepare to `greet' M.I.B.
properly. Qu'tok, Teq, Binimi stand ready incase
things get out of hand."
"And the operation?" asked Binimi.
"It can wait for the moment."
Krin's crew quickly went to prepare their traps.
For a moment, the Pirate leader stood before the
holding chamber thinking, then looked back up at his
two prisoners.
"I will deal with you personally, Ranma," he said
with a snarl.
Ranma and Konatsu could only watch helpless as he
strode away to join the others.

* * * * *

The line of M.I.B. agents stopped, waiting for
Nabiki to update the position on Ranma. She stood
fiddling with the controls of the scanner banging it a
few times on the side. Jay went over to see what was
wrong.
"The signals gone," Nabiki told him.
"Uhoh. That means Krin found the watch," he
replied. "And two to one he knows we're here."
"What now?"
Jay gazed across the field then called over to T.
"Yo, man. I think we're busted!" he said.
T knew what that meant, smirking at the news.
"How close were we to the signal?"
Nabiki called up the last position of the signal.
"About Fifty meters."
"Where the hell can this ship be?" asked Elle
looking around.
"I like the idea of a cloaking device," added
Tsubasa.
"This ain't Star Trek now, people!" said Jay. "No
beam me aboard Scotties here on Earth."
Shampoo let out a huff. "Beam aboard Scotty . . .
you are such Lilleekiou!" she said.
"Hey, T-man! What the heck does that mean, and
why do they know about it?"
T hid his grin from Jay. "Later, Jay," he said.
"Alright everyone, this is not the time to be arguing.
Let's keep moving until we find something."
"And what if something finds us first?" asked
Mousse.
"We handle it," replied T.
"I'll take point," said Ryoga moving ahead to lead
the way.
Slowly the agents resumed their advance watching
for any signs of trouble. Ryoga soon reached the spot
and held up a hand. He stood looking around in silence
then turned to face them. A slight shrug and shake of
the head mirrored the confused expression on his face.
T motioned for him to move on. He did, making his way
across their path at an angle. After a few more steps,
his next one hit the ground and kept on going through
the soft earth.
Ryoga disappeared, his cry cutting the air.
"Stay back!" shouted Elle before anyone could rush
to the spot.
"Ryoga!" called Ukyo.
Elle told her to be quiet. They watched for any
sign of movement, but there was nothing. Giving
Kodachi a signal to follow, she started making her way
towards the spot. Elle could see a large hole in the
ground as she approached. Dropping to a crouch,
together the two women inched up to the edge and peered
down.
"Ryoga?" called Elle.
".yeah?" came his weak reply.
"Are you hurt, Ryoga?"
".no."
"Well, that is a good sign," commented Kodachi.
Elle strained her eyes trying to make out Ryoga's
features in the dim light. "Ryoga, what's down there?"
A long silence followed. Elle and Kodachi traded
worried looks, then they could hear slight movement
coming from below. A short grunt sounded; Ryoga
muttering something to himself as he recovered his
senses. Jay called to Elle and she looked back over
her shoulder.
"Well?"
"He's alive, lost but alive," she replied.
"What is down there?" called Tatewaki.
She shook her head unable to answer him.
"Ryoga Hibiki, stop all of this mystery and tell
us if you found my darling Ranma," Kodachi shouted down
into the hole.
"I didn't find you're `Darling' Ranma, Kodachi,"
replied Ryoga. A short pause followed. "Elle?"
"Yes, Ryoga?"
"Get everyone down here."
"What did you find?"
"I think I've found Krin's ship."

* * * * *

Retrieving a rope and flashlight from the car, the
team soon found themselves standing on the upper half
of Krin's pirate ship. It sat in a hollowed out
cavern, the perfect hiding spot from unwanted eyes.
"Those reports of unusual rumblings," said T to
Elle and Jay, recalling the police reports they
reviewed just the other day.
"Krin is such a sly son-of-a-bitch," said Jay.
"He definitely deserves to get his as busted!"
"Let's find a way inside first," added Elle.
Tsubasa suddenly called, motioning for them to
come over to his position. He pointed down to a round
panel on the hull, several buttons lit in a recess at
the center.
"Door?" he asked.
"Could be," replied Ukyo.
"Does us no good if it is anyway," said Mousse.
"Looks like it's locked, and unless anyone knows the
combination, or has a key, we're not getting in anytime
soon."
"Got a key," said Elle.
"We do?" asked T.
She smiled. "Ryoga--,"
"Right. One access coming up."
Ryoga knelt down, feeling the surface of the hatch
with his fingers. His sensitive touch found the weak
spot in the metallic surface. "Stand back," he said,
drawing back a fist. With a sharp rap, the hatch
vibrated then popped up exposing the crawlway below.
"Amazing," commented T, impressed by his skill.
"Breaking Point Technique," said Shampoo. "Great
Grandma teach Ryoga well."
"M'man Ryoga. Gimme some dap on that," said Jay
exchanging taps with him.
T shined the flashlight down into the opening. It
looked clear and he drew his blaster.
"Shall we?" he said stepping down onto the first
rung.
It was not a far climb down into the ship, the
bottom opening to a large corridor lit by several soft
blue lights running along the top. An adjoining
corridor led off to the left; T carefully checking it
as the others made their way down. As soon as everyone
was there, he quickly formed a plan of action.
"We will have to split up," he told Elle and Jay.
"I'll take Mousse and Shampoo with me and check
forward."
"I'll take Tough-Guy and check that side
corridor," said Elle.
"Guess I get the back of the bus," said Jay.
"Let's try to be smart about this while we're
moving along," continued Elle. "Krin knows we're here
remember that, so be careful okay, Jay?"
"You ain't worried about your partner now all of a
sudden?"
"I'm more worried about our fledglings."
"We'll be alright, Elle," said Kasumi.
"Yeah, and we better get moving before time runs
out on us," added Nabiki.
Jay gave Elle a confiding wink, tuning to lead his
team down the corridor. T told her to call if they run
into any trouble, leading Mousse and Shampoo down the
opposite end.
Ryoga stood eyeing her for a moment. "Something
bothering you, Elle?" he asked her.
The tension at the back of her neck would not go
away, Elle drawing in a deep breath trying to relax.
She shook her head.
"Let's go," said Elle.

* * * * *

Jay and Tatewaki inched carefully down the empty
corridor leading the way watching for signs of Krin and
his pirates. He knew they had to be setting some kind
of trap for them knowing how much of a disadvantage
they were here in unknown territory.
Rounding a bend, another crossing intersection
came into view. Jay signaled a stop.
"Man this place is confusing," he said.
"I did not think this ship was that large,"
replied Tatewaki.
"Got to be some sort of an illusion."
Cutting a quick glance around the corner, Jay
stepped out into the center. All clear, he waved the
rest of the team forward as he moved along down the
right extension. Suddenly up ahead a figure stepped
into view turning to face them. It was Morea.
The clatter of safeties sounded, weapons quickly
trained on her. "Freeze!" shouted Jay, and Morea
flinched drawing back slightly as she stared at
assortment of barrels pointed at her.
"Wow, I didn't think you M.I.B. guys had such an
arsenal," she said.
"We got quite a few things for your ass if you
want us to introduce them to you!" shouted Jay. He
started moving towards her.
"Watch out, Mister Jay. She could be part of a
trick," Kasumi said.
"Yeah, I ain't fall'n for it either," he replied.
"Kneel your tiny butt on the floor, NOW!"
"It's a deck. We're on a ship, remember?" replied
Morea.
"Who cares? You heard the man, get down on the
floor!" ordered Tatewaki.
Morea frowned dropping to her knees. "Sheesh!
Such ignorant humans, and rude too."
"Shut up!" Jay said. "Turn around, slow!"
She did, and the team quickly surrounded her.
Nabiki forced Morea face down, pinning her arms behind
her.
"Okay, now where are Ranma, Akane and Konatsu?"
she asked.
"Roasting in the oven," cracked Morea with a
laugh.
Nabiki twisted an arm. "Not funny, girl. Now
where are they!"
"Wouldn't you like to know!"
Ukyo smirked at Morea. "Something's wrong," she
suddenly said. "They could not have sent this pip
squeak down to stop us alone."
"It doesn't look like anybody else is about to
show up," said Kodachi.
"No. Ukyo's right. I don't like it at all," Jay
said.
Morea laughed again. "You don't think I can take
you all by myself?" she said to them.
Nabiki twisted her arm again. "Not while your
butt is lying down on this floor."
"Oh really?" said Morea, cutting her eyes back to
one side. "D'skta."
Where once there was a floor beneath them, now
there was empty space as the ships computer dropped
them down into the bowels of the ship. Surprised cries
echoed through the darkness then the several splashes
followed as the team landed suddenly in a pool of
water.
Jay broke the surface, huffing and clearing his
face to see where they were. The water was only waist
deep and he stood up. Kasumi burst forth from the
water next to him hacking and coughing from the
mouthful of water she had inadvertently swallowed.
"You okay?" Jay asked her.
Kasumi wiped her face. "I lost the rifle, Mister
Jay," she answered.
"Probably at the bottom of this pool."
Kasumi looked around then took a deep breath,
diving back into the water.
Around the pool the rest of Jay's team splashed
about, more confused and angry for allowing themselves
to be trick like this. Kasumi resurface hefting her
rifle in one hand.
"Here," she said handing Jay a blaster.
Jay made a quick sweep around him. "Where is
she?" he said.
Morea was nowhere in sight and that only made
things worse.
"She better not show her face again!" raged Ukyo.
"How are we going to get out of here without her,"
snapped Tatewaki.
As if she heard, Morea suddenly exploded from the
center of the pool, splashing down on her back.
"Hi!" she said.
Jay and Kasumi trained their weapons on her.
"Not very funny, kid!" said Jay.
Morea pushed out her bottom lip in a pout,
apparently hurt by his words. "You don't like my
room?" she asked him.
"Get us out of here!"
"Okay, okay." Morea stopped, peering at the rifle
Kasumi held on her. "Are you planning to shoot tanks
with that?"
In a flash, Nabiki made her way over to Morea.
She grabbed her by the scruff of the neck, forcing her
around.
"You little bitch. Get us out of here now!" she
shouted.
Morea sneered up at her. "I have every intention
of getting you all out of my pool. You're messing it
up anyway."
"Just do it!"
A dark gleam came to Morea's eyes. "But not as
your prisoner."
Nabiki tensed, a throttled cry passing through
grit teeth as a surge of energy went through her body.
The rest of the team too stood held in rigid shock
unable to move or react. In seconds, Morea's attack
had rendered all of them inert, and they collapsed
floating eerily on the surface of the dark water. Morea
gazed down upon Nabiki's lifeless face.
"So what were you saying about not being able to
handle you all?"

* * * * *

"T," whispered Shampoo waving him over to her.
She stood at the corner of another corridor checking to
see if the coast was clear. Something caught her eye,
something that made her stop and bring T's attention to
it. He stole up behind her.
"Trouble?" he asked.
"No. Not yet anyway."
He peered slowly around the corner. There halfway
down was an open doorway, the room beyond dark. It was
the first one they came across in such a state and that
immediately aroused their suspicions.
"Is trap, no?" asked Shampoo.
"Yes," replied T.
"We avoid then, yes?"
"No," answered T.
Shampoo smirked, confused by T's response. "Why
we be silly, T? Is not better to skip weak attempt of
capture and find Krin?"
"And what if Krin is in there? Having him roaming
around behind us is not a wise move either."
"So what we do?"
Thinking, T turned motioning for Mousse to move up
across from them.
"What's up, boss?" he called lightly over.
"Cover us, and I'm not `boss'."
Mousse flashed him an Ok.
Rolling his eyes up, T refocused on their current
situation. Gingerly, he stepped out into the open and
started moving towards the room with Shampoo close
behind. They neared the entrance and T moved to the
opposite side of the corridor. Holding his blaster up
at the ready, a slight gesture with his head signaled
Shampoo to move up. She pressed against the wall, then
taking a light breath whipped around the corner.
The space was completely empty.
Shampoo relaxed. Slightly disappointed, she
turned around. "T, we out of luck. No sign of bad
guys. Room as empty as Mousse's head."
"Hey, that's not fair!" protested Mousse.
"There's nothing wrong with my head."
"Why you keep useless notions about Shampoo in
there then, eh?"
"Useless! One day Shampoo. One Day you will be
mine!"
"Feh! See, silly talk. Sign of no brains.
Nothing up there."
"Settle down people," said T.
As Mousse fumed in silence, T looked around. This
door was not left open for nothing, he thought. The
pattern does not fit. Something was up he was sure.
"Mousse, take the lead," he said still eyeing
their surroundings.
"Humph! Why don't we just send the `Ice Queen'
ahead. If she's attacked she probably wouldn't feel
anything."
"Who you calling Ice Queen?" snapped Shampoo.
"Please, you two. Don't start--,"
T stopped abruptly as something bumped up against
the back of his head. He turned spotting a thin strand
of webbing dangling from the overhead and followed it
up. There, perched conveniently in the dark recesses
of the crossbeams sat Alid, holding a mass of webbing
in his arms.
"Peek-a-boo," he said grinning down at the
surprised agents.
T and Mousse pointed their blasters up, only to be
ensnared beneath the mass of sticky webbing dropped
down upon them. Shampoo took aim, but from the
darkness behind her several strands snaked out,
wrapping themselves around her. Shampoo dropped her
weapon, crying out as she was yanked through the
doorway.
"Shampoo!" cried Mousse. He struggled to free
himself, T's grunts mimicking his own but it was
futile. Alid was quickly down, looping several more
strands around them and in moments they were
immobilized in a tight ball.
"Ooo, naughty, naughty," said Alid as he disarmed
the two agents.
"You bastards. Let us out of this stuff!" shouted
Mousse.
Alid laughed, humored by the request. A short cry
came from the room, then Shampoo was tossed out bound
tightly by several strands of webbing. Koo stepped
out, dusting his hands.
"See, she's not so tuff once you have her
restrained," he said.
"Shampoo get strange man for this!" she yelled up
at him, straining against her bonds.
"Well, it looks like dinner is served," said Alid.
"By all means after you, my dear brother," replied
Koo.
The two leered down at the helpless trio, but
before they could feed, another voice from up the
corridor stopped them.
"Alid, Koo. Not now!" Teq said.
"What, again?" Alid said in disbelief.
"Look, you know what happened the last time we let
them live longer," protested Koo.
The rifle in Teq's hands came to life, a vicious
snarl forming on his lips. "I said stop. Do I have to
reiterate that to you in a different manner, hmm?"
Both men took hard swallows. "No," they said
together.
"Good. Now bring them along. There will be
plenty of time to feast once we are on our way off this
forsaken planet."
Muttering curses, Alid and Koo took hold of their
struggling prisoners, dragging them along as they
headed back to the control room.

* * * * *

"Jay, wake up!"
Jay's reaction to the frantic voice was a sharp
smirk, wondering why somebody would be bothering him
while he slept. A pair of hands gripped him by each
shoulder.
"Jay, wake up, damnit!" the voice demanded again.
A sharp shake finally brought Jay around. He
looked up, finding Ranma, Kasumi and Kodachi staring
down at him.
"Uh oh. If I see Ranma, then I can guess we are
in some heavy duty trouble," he said.
"Things aren't looking good for us right now,
Jay," answered Ranma.
With Kasumi's help, Jay sat up. He held his head
in his hands for a moment letting the rush of blood
pass, then blinked his eyes and gazed around. They
were in some kind of holding chamber, the room around
them full of alien equipment. On a table lay Akane, an
eerie glow around her. There was a light chuckle, Krin
stepping into view.
"So, the loud mouth finally wakes up," he said.
"Yo, Sat-man. He must be talk'n to you," said
Jay.
"Hey, I've been here awhile pal, so I know he's
not talking to me. And it's Saotome, get right
will'ya!"
"Will you two stop bickering!" Nabiki shouted at
them. "We're in trouble here and all you can do is
fight!"
Krin's laughter brought their attention back to
their present situation.
"I must admit, you Earth M.I.B. agents have
certainly been . . . entertaining."
"Yeah, well you're not going to think that once we
get done kicking the stuffing out of your hide!"
shouted Tsubasa.
"I don't think so, puny human."
Qu'tok and Morea suddenly entered, arms full of
M.I.B. weapons. They dumped them on the table with
rest of them, and joined Krin at the chamber.
"You guys made an awful mess of my home," said
Morea.
Nabiki pressed up against the invisible partition
glaring down at her.
"You little bitch. When I get my hands on you,
you're going to regret ever crossing us!"
Morea frowned.
"I'll bet your hide is tough," she said. "I'm
going to enjoy cooking you."
"Actually, it is probably quite soft and tender,"
remarked Tatewaki. A sharp kick to the rear from
Nabiki silenced him.
Jay stood up. "Krin, you haven't won anything
yet, man," he said walking up to the edge.
"It looks like I'm about to, `Jay'."
"We aren't done yet!"
For a moment, Krin acted as if he was worried,
rubbing his chin. "Yes, your friends. They're being
rounded up even as we speak. As for any other M.I.B.
fools, or the Mocabians for that matter, (heh) we will
be long gone before they can do anything."
"You won't get away with this, Krin!"
Krin smiled. "That's what Ranma keeps saying.
Cute."
Through the main doors Teq appeared forcing a
bound T roughly forwards towards the holding chamber.
Alid and Koo followed with both Mousse and Shampoo
slung over a shoulder.
"You see!" exclaimed Krin. "I do believe the good
guys are winning this little fight."
Teq forced T down to his knees before Krin. "Not
much of a challenge for these two," he said.
"It was like child's play," added Alid.
"I would say easier than--," began Koo, but Krin
cut him off.
"Will you two shut up," he snarled.
Without warning, Krin took T by the throat,
hefting him from the floor. He drew him close until
they were eye to eye.
"So you thought you could defeat me! How sorry
you M.I.B. agents are. Overconfident and ignorant to
the point of being stupid."
The grip tightened; T gurgling as he struggled.
"Now the game is over. I will soon have the
Regent, and you and your friends will be nothing more
than dinner." He sneered slightly. "M.I.B., you
disgust me. Get out of my sight."
A light toss sent T towards the holding chamber.
Ranma called out a warning to Jay and the others, but
before anyone could move, T passed effortlessly through
the pane colliding with several of the others.
"Oops, forgot to tell you all about that little
trick," said Konatsu.
Ukyo rose up on her arms, glaring at him.
"Thanks," she said sarcastically.
Shampoo and Mousse were tossed in on the pile.
The pirates laughed at them then Krin turned to the
table. Binimi stood monitoring the readouts on Akane,
noting the her worsening condition.
"Is she still ready for the operation?" asked
Krin.
"Yes, but I don't think they will last for very
much longer," answered Binimi.
"Then we must cut Akane Tendo open now."
That brought a furious round of protest from their
prisoners.
"You can't kill my sister!" cried Kasumi, beating
desperately on the force field.
"You fiend! How dare you threaten the life of the
Fair Akane," shouted Tatewaki.
"Krin. Don't you do it!" said Jay furiously.
Krin muted the chamber again, tired of all the
distractions.
"Hey, where's Glator?" Alid suddenly asked.
"Good question," said Qu'tok.
"He's probably smashing what's left of those two
M.I.B. agent he went after into jelly," replied Krin.
"Should we go and check on him? He has been gone
awhile," said Teq.
"No. Those two can't harm him. Let's finish this
operation so we can get off this rock."
Leering down at Akane, Krin took up his tools once
more.
"Now then . . . where were we?"

* * * * *

Krin was right about one thing. Glator could not
be hurt by Ryoga or Elle. However, he could not
foresee the future otherwise he might have had second
thought about not checking up on his crewman.
Elle and Ryoga found the corridor they were
searching ended abruptly at a long crawlway leading
down into the decks below. Deciding it would be better
to continue on, they started down, coming out into the
lower part of the ship.
It reminded Elle of the cargo hold she and Jay
just visited a few day ago. She giggled, remembering
what had happened there.
"I missed the joke," Ryoga said wondering what it
was she found funny.
"Long story. I'll tell it to you later," she
replied.
Ryoga shrugged it off. Drawing the Noisy Cricket
from his jacket, he started down the walkway eyeing the
large doors along the left side. Elle followed him,
the tension increasing as they moved along.
Soon they reach an intersection and Ryoga stopped.
He looked back with a questioning shrug wondering if he
should go on. Elle figured why not. They had gone
this far without any encounters, no sense in stopping
now. She gave him a nod and Ryoga stepped out.
He did not expect to find the hulking figure of
Glator lying in wait, nor expect the quick sharp slap
that caught him across the face. Propelled through the
air, Ryoga landed hard, his tiny weapon clattering
across the walkway and down through an opening. Elle
fired a shot, but Glator was on the move dodging out of
harms way. He reached out grasping her gun hand by the
wrist and pointed it up. The pressure was to much,
Elle grimacing as she reluctantly let the gun fall from
her hand.
Glator kicked it away, then tossed Elle over to
join Ryoga. "Glator kill M.I.B. agents with his bare
hands!" he growled moving towards them.
"Run, Elle!" said Ryoga shooting to his feet. He
took stance ready to fight the hulking monstrosity
coming for them. Elle glanced up the walkway noticing
that it was a dead end with no way up or down.
"Run where, Ryoga!" she cried.
"Just run!"
Elle backed away as Glator lunged for Ryoga.
Letting out a yell, Ryoga let lose with several rapid
blows dotting Glator's massive body that would have
normally stopped an opponent dead in their tracks. It
did not even faze him, Glator merely shrugging off the
pain. He launched a blow and Ryoga barely side stepped
out of the way. The fist hit the walkway leaving a
deep indentation in the metal.
"Man, how do I get into these fights?" wondered
Ryoga. A retreat was in order and he backed away with
Glator following right along.
Meanwhile, Elle started working the buttons on the
cargo doors hoping to find one that was not keyed shut.
So far she was having no luck and with Glator pressing
down on them, the choices were getting lesser and
lesser.
A slap sounded, Elle looking up in time to see
Ryoga rocketing towards her. She let out a yell as
they collided, sprawling to the deck.
Ryoga shook the stars from his eyes and sat up.
"I don't think we're going to make it out of here,
Elle," he said.
Elle painfully drew herself up to her knees.
"Please, Ryoga. No jokes okayEEEEEE, LOOK OUT!"
Instinctively, Ryoga rolled to the other side of
the walkway as Elle scrambled away from Glator's fist
crashing down from above. He made a desperate leap,
latching both arms beneath the walking mass of muscle's
chin in a desperate attempt to strangle him.
Glator smirked, stopping for a short moment to
wonder what this tiny man was trying to achieve.
Noticing that his efforts were getting him nowhere,
Ryoga peered over Glator's shoulder.
"Nothing, eh?" he asked.
"Futile," snarled Glator.
Reaching up, Glator grabbed Ryoga by the scruff of
the neck and tossed him up the walkway. He hit the
bulkhead and slid down to the deck grimacing in pain.
Elle fled, running over to where Ryoga lay.
"Ryoga, Ryoga, don't leave me here to face this
thing by myself," she said shaking him by the collar.
Ryoga opened an eye. "I'm not doing to good as it
is now, Elle so I don't think it's going to make a big
difference if I'm here or not."
The heavy footsteps brought Elle around. Glator
stalked purposely towards them, death clearly set in
the maniacal expression on his face. Desperately she
pulled Ryoga over to the last door and hit the buttons
on the panel. There came a hiss and the door slid up.
Thanking God for this timely break, she pulled Ryoga
through the threshold and closed the door.
Boxes and containers of all shapes and sized
filled the cargo hold. Elle set Ryoga up against a
large crate then frantically looked around for anything
to use as a weapon. A long carrying rod stood up in
its holding rack, and Elle quickly pulled it down. She
attacked the control panel on the inside, beating at
the front plate until a satisfying spark flashed
through the panel. She could hear Glator punching the
control button on the other side and inched back.
Nothing happened and the door remained shut.
Relief flowed through Elle. She staggered over to
Ryoga and sat down beside him. For a moment they were
quiet, then Ryoga slowly looked over.
"Nice job," he said.
"Yeah, but now we're trapped in here. All Krin
has to do is pop that door and we're finished."
Ryoga let out a grunt, smiling. "Well the
immediate problem is solved. Anything else we can
handle as it rises."
A sharp blow from the door startled them. Another
one cut the air and a bulge appeared in the metal.
Several more followed, then finally one of Glator's
fist burst through. He drew it back and peered through
the hole.
"I don't believe this!" said Elle.
Glator laughed at them. He reached back through
the opening and hooked his arm up against the inside.
Every sinew and muscle rippled as Glator strained with
all his might. The door let out a creek, then started
to rise.
"Give him an A for persistence," joked Ryoga.
They stood up and started backing away as Glator forced
the door up far enough for him to move up under.
"Still want me to run?" said Elle.
"Yeah. I'll distract him. While he's after me,
make a break for the opening."
"But he'll kill you, Ryoga."
"Better than killing both of us now, isn't it?"
Elle did not argue that fact. Ryoga took in a
breath and stepped boldly up.
"Okay, big guy. Let's try another round," he said
beckoning Glator to come on.
He was not about to be disappointed. Glator's cry
filled the room as he charged. A mighty swing was
barely dodged by Ryoga, thundering into a stack of
containers. As they crashed to the deck, Ryoga ran
behind a large box.
"Ya missed, looser," he said taunting Glator.
All that achieved was to make him all the more
angrier. Furiously, the massive fist came down
shattering the side of the box Ryoga cowered behind. A
pile of gold bricks tumbled out.
"Great. I finally find wealth, and now I've got
to throw it all away," said Ryoga.
Picking up a brick, Ryoga hurtled it as hard as he
could at Glator. He was surprisingly on target,
connecting square at the center of his forehead. The
burly giant let out a growl and staggered back. Ryoga
threw another, but this time Glator was ready. He
swatted it back across the room. Ryoga leaped rolling
across the floor. By the time he stopped, Glator was
on him. A hand latched tight around his throat lifting
him high into the air.
Ryoga struggled, desperately gasping for breath.
The grip tightened and Glator grinned taking great
pleasure in the various expressions crossing Ryoga's
face.
Something suddenly hit Glator across the back. He
flinched as another blow struck him. Turning around, a
third blow landed across his face. Ryoga dropped from
Glator's grasp as he turned to face this new threat.
Elle held the carrying rod in her hands, backing
away as Glator stared down at her. She looked to find
the rod now warped and bent, virtually useless as a
weapon now.
"Uh, just kidding?" said Elle, grinning
sheepishly.
Glator's hand caught Elle beneath the chin,
sending her sailing over a stack of boxes.
Before he could go and put the finishing touches
on her, Ryoga's cry sounded from behind. Glator turned
around, only to catch another stack of containers come
crashing down on his head. Strength or no strength,
Glator could not resist the force and collapsed beneath
their weight.
Ryoga stood chest heaving from his exertions.
There was no sign of movement from the pile and he
sighed. A light moan made him look up. "Elle," he
said rushing to find her.
She lay sprawled out on the deck in a daze,
moaning as she fought to recover her senses. Ryoga
knelt and took her up in his arms.
"Elle, Elle are you all right?" he said patting
her lightly on the cheek.
She swatted his hand away. "I don't care if it's
my birthday, let me sleep!" said Elle in her delirium.
"Elle, Elle it's me, Ryoga. Come out of it,
please!"
Elle shook her head and opened her eyes. "Ryoga?"
"Yeah. I thought I told you to make a break for
it?"
"And . . . and leave you to face that monster
alone? No way."
Ryoga laughed. "Thanks. You saved my life."
"Don't mention it. So where is Big Gruesome at
anyway?"
"Taking a nap up under a pile of crates. Can you
walk?"
Elle tested her limbs. "Nothing feels broken. I
don't see why not," she replied.
"We better get out of here then before Too-Tall
wakes up."
He helped Elle up to her feet, and started for the
opening when suddenly, Glator's hulking frame blocked
the way. Ryoga forced Elle back behind him. With a
hard kick he knocked over several stacks before them as
they retreated into the far corner. Glator let out a
yell of rage, bashing and kicking his way through the
obstacles.
The two agents hunkered down behind a crate
listening as the sounds of destruction grew closer.
"Now we are going to get killed," said Elle
fearfully.
Ryoga chanced a look up over the top, quickly
ducking back down as a small box sailed over head.
"You got any ideas?" he asked her.
"Not at the present moment. You?"
Ryoga grimaced, thinking desperately. He suddenly
took another look over the top, then snapped his
fingers.
"Elle, he's like us isn't he?" said Ryoga
gesturing toward Glator.
She smirked, wondering what he meant by that.
"What!"
"He's a human like us, right?"
"He could be. I couldn't tell you without running
test!"
Anther box smashed up against the wall.
"Elle, yes or no?"
"I don't know!"
Ryoga knew he had to take a chance. Frantically,
he reached into his jacket, then started patting around
his body.
"Great, I lost them."
"Lost what?"
"My shades."
With no hesitation, Ryoga reached into Elle's
jacket and pulled out her shades and Nuralizer.
"Ryoga what are you doing!"
"Playing a hunch!"
Putting the protective sunglasses on, Ryoga stood
up. Glator stood towering over them, a large metal
crate held over his head. Elle doubled up and covered
her eyes.
A snarl sounded from Glator; Ryoga holding the
Nuralizer up. "Say `Cheese'!" he said.
FOOSH!.

* * * * *

FOOSH!
FOOSH!
Bright flashes briefly lit the control room as
Alid and Koo stood taking turns zapping each other with
two of the Nuralizers. Alid giggled like a child with
a new toy delighted by the effects he felt coursing
through his body. Koo leaned forward beckoning for his
brother to give him a burst. He did, and the pirate
immediately went rigid for a moment. The effects
quickly passed and Koo started giggling too, staggering
around like a punch drunk fighter.
Inside the holding chamber, Jay and the rest of
the agents were shouted and screaming at the two,
shielding their eyes against the seductive light.
"Hey, man. Knock that shit off!" shouted Jay. He
held up his arms as Koo zapped Alid once again.
"Will you stop that before somebody gets hurt!"
Ukyo raged at them. A stray burst caught her and she
tensed, shuddering uncontrollably.
Jay caught her before she could fall. He snapped
his fingers in front of her face. "Ukyo, come out of
it. Nothing happened, you're just like you were
before!" Jay said.
She blinked, coming out of her stupor. "Thanks."
"No prob. Wouldn't want you running around do'n
something silly now would we?"
To the surprise of everyone, Krin suddenly raced
over and snatched the Nuralizers from Alid and Koo.
"Knock it off, you idiots!" he growled, crushing them
in his grip.
"Aw, Krin. You take away all of our fun," Alid
complained.
"Fools! You're disrupting the equiptment with
these things, and distracting me. Now get over there
before I place both of you in permanent suspension!"
The brothers cringed, shirking away towards the
operating table. Krin stopped briefly in front of the
holding chamber.
"Do you see what I have to work with?" he said to
them, moving on.
"There has got to be some way out of this thing,"
said Jay looking around their prison once more.
"If there is, we won't find it before Akane gets
cut to shreds," replied Tsubasa.
"Don't say things like that!" Kasumi said. "We
can't just give up!"
"I'm sorry, Kasumi, but Konatsu and I have tried
everything we could think of or do. Nothing works,"
Ranma said.
"Well we'd better try something else and fast,"
commented Nabiki. "Krin's getting ready to cut Akane
open."
Everyone pressed up against the force field
watching helpless as Krin stood with blade held over
Akane's chest. It gleamed in the light, Akane to weak
now to do much more than watch it moving towards her.
". . .Ranma," she gasped low as the tip set down
on her skin.
"NO! Krin don't do it!" cried Ranma desperately.
"Akane!" called Kasumi, tears brimming her eyes.
Krin paused, leering back at them. He turned the
blade to the side and made a quick short thrust. Blood
pooled around the edge of the incision. Akane let out
a cry as the pain rushed through her.
"Krin, we're going to get you!" T screamed in
rage. Kasumi broke down, Jay holding her tight as she
sobbed.
"You a dead man, Krin!" he said. "Once we get out
of here, you are dead. Hear me? Dead!"
"Ranma, do something!" pleaded Nabiki.
Krin ignored them. He drew the blade up a few
inches more, enjoying Akane's tears and anguish.
"Be careful, Krin. You need to peel back the skin
first before attempting any penetration through the
bone," Qu'tok reminded him.
"I know! Can't you see I'm having fun here?"
"Oh, so you get to have fun, but we can't," Koo
said, still smarting from the earlier rebuff.
Krin leveled a vicious sneer on him and he
started, cowering protectively behind Alid.
"Will you all stop bothering me so I can get this
done!" he shouted.
Reaching up, Krin took hold of a surgical saw.
The jagged round blade immediately began spinning, it's
high pitched whine filling the air. Akane moaned as
the tool was positioned over her.
"Now, Akane Tendo, comes the interesting part,"
said Krin.
It looked to be the end for Akane and the Regent.
With the of the M.I.B. agents conveniently contained,
there seemed to be no hope for them at all. That was
until the main doors slid open.
Glator's heavy footsteps stopped Krin. He turned
to see his hulking henchmen walking towards them, Elle
and Ryoga held by the collar in each hand. Elle's face
was turned down in a scowl, arms across her chest in
distinct displeasure.
"So he's like us," she said in a mocking tone,
glancing over to Ryoga.
"Hey, I didn't know!" replied Ryoga.
Glator set them down before Krin.
Inside the holding chamber, a feeling of disaster
passed through the agents.
"Well, there goes our last chance of getting out
of here," said Mousse.
Jay stared at them for a second. His instincts
told him that something was about to happen. "Hold up,
people," he said to them. "Let's not cash in all of
our chips just yet."
Back at the operating table, Krin stood looking
the last two agents over. "Excellent work, Glator," he
said checking out the bruises and cuts on there faces.
"And you're just in time to watch me extract the Regent
from Tendo."
Ryoga's eyes widened slightly as he caught sight
of the bloody incision that ran up Akane's chest. He
tensed but held himself back, not wanting to
jeopardized their position. He cut a narrow gaze at
Krin, eyes slitted menacingly.
"You're going to pay, Krin," he snarled low. "You
and your flunkies here."
"Again, overconfident M.I.B. agents," replied
Krin. "You just don't realize who you are dealing
with."
"Maybe it's you who are just a bit overconfident,
Krin," Elle said.
Krin smirked. "Another stupid comment. Glator,
throw these fools into the holding chamber!"
Krin expected Ryoga and Elle to be immediately
tossed through the air, but Glator stood glaring down
at his leader. Elle looked over at the others. Her
eyes found Jay, and she gave him a quick wink.
"Heh, heh, heh, heh. . . Yo' Krin, standby to get
your world rocked!" he said.
Krin stared up at his man. "Glator did you not
hear me?" he said.
Ryoga smacked his lips, rubbing his chin while
grinning like the Cheshire Cat. "Uh, let me help you
there, Krinny ol'boy," he said. Looking back up at
Glator, Ryoga arched a brow. "Glator."
A massive fist plowed into Krin's face. He
rocketed back up against Qu'tok and together they
crashed headlong into the side of a console. Ryoga
leaped executing a roundhouse kick that caught Teq up
under the chin knocking him across the room. In a
flash, Elle had drawn her blaster, pointing at the
remaining pirates. "Freeze!" she shouted. Stunned,
Binimi, Morea, Alid and Koo slowly raised their hands.
She motioned them away from the table.
"Elle! Elle, get us out of here!" T said.
Glator went over to one of the control panels and
hit a button. The force field abruptly went away and
the agents inside tumbled to the deck.
"Hey we could have used a warning before you did
that!" complained Jay as he stood up.
"Always bitching," Elle said. "How about `great
job' or `nice going' for a change!"
"You did well," said T. Retrieving a blaster from
the pile, he strode over to Krin and Qu'tok. "The
tables have turned, Krin," he said covering them.
Meanwhile, Ranma and Kasumi rushed over to the
operating table. Glator deactivated the field holding
Akane, and they pulled her off.
"Akane," said Ranma lying her gently on the deck.
Kasumi quickly pulled off what remained of Akane's
shirt and folded it into a neat bandage. She placed it
over the open wound binding it tightly around her torso
with Ranma's tie.
"We've got to get her to a hospital," said Kasumi.
Akane's eyes fluttered open. "Ranma," she said in
a hoarse voice.
"Hang in there, Akane. You're going to be
alright. I promise!"
She smiled then her eyelids fluttered again.
"Guardian," she said.
Kasumi felt Akane's forehead. It was hot and she
knew what need to be done. "We need to get them some
water."
"Where's there any water around here?" asked
Ranma.
"You may find water in Morea's section of the
ship," said Glator.
Disbelief covered the pirate's faces.
"Glator?" questioned Morea.
Krin angrily stood up. "Glator, what has happened
to you? Why are you not bashing these pitiful M.I.B.
agents into mush!"
"Yo', you can forget about talk'n down to m'man
Gee here," Ryoga said. He looked over at Jay. "Did I
get that right?"
"You all over it, cuz," replied Jay.
Ryoga smiled. "Glator here is now on our side,
Krin," he finished.
"I have seen the error of my ways, and am more
than willing to assist M.I.B. in apprehending you,
Krin." added Glator.
T laughed. "You Zapped him," he said to Elle.
"Yep. Isn't this great."
"Yuck!" exclaimed Binimi. "You could have at
least left his voice the same. He sounds so . . . odd."
"Not as odd as you all are going to sound after a
few years in a prison," said Tatewaki.
Krin gawfed at them. "We are not going to any
prison," he said defiantly. "This has gone on long
enough. I do believe we should show these fools what
they are really up against."
"Well it is about time," said Alid.
"Don't do anything stupid!" Jay shouted, pointing
his blaster at Krin.
A grin formed on the pirate leaders face, a grin
that continued to stretch disfiguring the humanoid
features. More stretching and popping erupted from the
other pirates, then Nabiki and Kodachi let out
terrified cries as Qu'tok's head sloughed forward.
Arms, appendages, antenna, and other assorted features
rose up from the now useless husk. A mantis like being
pulled itself free, its dark brown skin glistening
under the lights. Alid and Koo also shed the coverings
that were once F and O, pulling three more sets of legs
out along with the rest of their spider like bodies.
Binimi's upper torso continued to rise up to the
overhead, stretching the skin from her original body.
The husk parted at the waist, and a long thick scaly
hide slid out. Most of the feminine features remained,
but where she had held hair was now a broad hood. Her
red snake-like eyes blinked at them, tongue flicking
lightly. Morea's husk had dropped to the deck exposing
her smooth, dark gray skin. The only major change lie
in her facial features; eel-like jaws and eyes
replacing the human features she once had.
Teq reached up grabbing the top of his head and
pulled, parting the skin. A mass of dark brown fur
appeared, then his jaw began to stretch outward, canine
teeth and fangs extending down. Stepping out of his
covering, Teq's wolfish features brought fear to those
standing around him.
But not one of the agents expected what erupted
from Krin's disguise. He was huge, a muscular
reptilian standing on two legs, green scales adorning
his hide. Sharp claws clicked together as Krin flexed
his fingers.
"Now we can play properly," he slurred, the rows
of razor sharp teeth gnashing together.
"Wow," stammered Tsubasa, echoing the shocked
expressions of the others.
To the surprise of the pirates, Jay started
chuckling.
"What is so funny, human?" asked Krin.
"I seen this trick before," he answered him. "I
fact, didn't you have a cousin visit here a few months
back there ah, Qu'tok?"
Qu'tok's mandibles snapped angrily together at the
remark.
"Oh yeah, I forgot. We blasted his ass for trying
to be stupid, ain't that right, Elle."
"Just like we can do to you folks if you want,"
she said.
"It doesn't matter what form you're in, Krin. We
still have you," said Konatsu.
"But you do not have my ship," replied Krin.
<D'skta, disarm these fools!>
[Here I am again saving your hide,] said the
computer.
Abruptly, all the weapons were snatched out of the
agents hands, disappearing through an opening in
overhead.
[Please, Krin. Try not to make too much of a mess
on my consoles.]
A brief growl up at the overhead sounded from
Krin. He gazed back down and clicked his claws
together once again.
"Now we end this game once and for all."
"This was not part of the deal, T," Nabiki said.
"Too late to renegotiate, Nabiki."
Jay took off his jacket, throwing it down. "Okay,
you want a fight. Well bring that ass on, Krin!"
Krin was not about to disappoint him. With a loud
roar he leaped at Jay, the signal for the rest of the
pirates to attack.

* * * * *

Shouts, cries of pain, and the breaking of
equipment filled D'skta's control room as the M.I.B.
agents battled Krin and his pirates for the life of
Akane and the Regent inside her. There would be no
room for quarter, both sides knowing full well what the
consequences were if they were beaten.
At the center of the room Krin fought with Jay,
Ranma, and Glator. They ducked his swipes, landing
punches and kicks holding the pirate at bay while Akane
crawled across the floor towards the main doors. Jay
clung tight to Krin's thick neck, straining as he tried
to bring the pirate down. A sold kick from Ranma to
the stomach staggered Krin, angering him further. He
jerked his shoulder sharply forward and Jay cried out
as he sailed through the air. A swipe at Ranma forced
him back.
"I will kill you, Ranma!" snarled Krin.
"Fat chance on that happening!" replied Ranma.
With fist flying, Ranma connected repeatedly with
Krin's chin rocking him. Suddenly he was caught up by
one wrist and slung painfully down to the deck.
"Hurt?" leered Krin, slinging Ranma around to the
other side.
Heavy blows crashed down upon Krin's head as
Glator came to Ranma's aid. Lifting him up, Glator let
out a yell and tossed the pirate across the room.
"Are you okay, Ranma?" asked Glator.
Ranma shook his head and leaned up on his arms.
"Yeah . . . uh fine, Glator," he answered. Jay
staggered up.
"Yo man, where did he go?"
"Right here human!" cried Krin, leaping towards
them. They collided, tumbling back across the room.
Over in the far left of the room, T, Tatewaki, and
Tsubasa battled Qu'tok. They clung to the insectoid,
holding back his arms; Tsubasa latched tightly about
his upper torso like a cowboy riding a bucking bronco.
Qu'tok thrashed madly about trying to dislodge them.
He lashed out an arm jerking T through the air and
shook him around, but T was not about to release him.
A study kick to the elbow joint made Qu'tok cry out.
He kicked again, hearing the satisfying crack of fibers
and ligaments. The now useless limb dropped down to
the side. T took a step back facing Qu'tok.
"This is for those you've hurt needlessly!" he
shouted. T's fist went into a blur, blow after blow
landing between the Mantin's dark eyes. He tried to
block the barrage, but Tatewaki clung tightly to his
other arm pinning it back against his body.
Finally, Qu'tok staggered. His legs buckled and
he fell forward, letting out one last grunt before
passing out.
"Ah, it is well this cretin has surrendered,"
commented Tatewaki. "Otherwise, I `Blue Thunder' would
have had to show him the true meaning of power."
T's chest heaved, winded by all of his exertions.
He furrowed his brows. "'Blue Thunder'?" he asked.
"Don't get him started," said Tsubasa.
Quickly hobbling Qu'tok's limbs with their ties,
the three rushed to help the other in the melee still
raging around the room.
The crash of chairs and consoles marked Ukyo and
Kodachi's path as they fled before Binimi's menacing
pursuit. Her snake-like body shot over a console and
she came down behind Ukyo. A forearm to the back of
the head stunned Ukyo and she fell. Almost immediately
Binimi pounced, entwining her in her coils.
"III Hhaavvveee youuu nowww!" she hissed. Her
mouth stretched open, Binimi ready to swallow Ukyo down
in one quick gulp. Desperately, Ukyo strained against
the tightening coils. She managed to pull one arm
free, and caught Binimi by the throat.
"K-K-Kodachi!" she called out.
Kodachi turned and gasped in surprise. "Unhand
her, you foul being!" she shouted. A light leap and
Kodachi twirled through the air landing gracefully on
her hands. She executed a perfect backflip, coming
down feet first on Binimi's chin. The coils went slack
as Binimi reeled, but Kodachi was not done yet.
Another handstand, Kodachi spinning around legs spread,
hitting Binimi repeatedly about the head.
The snake-woman crashed up against a console and
sagged down in a dazed stupor.
"Hoh, hoh, hoh, hoh," laughed Kodachi as she stood
triumphantly before her. "Have you had enough?"
Binimi hissed. Her head snapped up, fangs barred.
"Too the likesss offff youooo? NEVERRRR!"
She lunged, but Kodachi jumped effortlessly up
over her head. She came down behind Binimi, turning
with a laugh then realized to late her mistake.
Binimi's tail cut Kodachi's legs from under her.
Landing hard on her back, she looked up finding
Binimi's evil figure rearing back ready to strike.
A fist caught Binimi at the side of her chin, Ukyo
following up with a solid uppercut which sent the alien
reeling. "Bitch!" growled Ukyo, kicking Binimi up over
the top of the consoles behind her. In between their
narrow space, Binimi could hardly move and Ukyo quickly
took advantage of this. She dived over the top and the
sounds of rapid fist blows began. Kodachi, not wanting
to miss out on all the fun, followed her. The consoles
shook violently, a glimpse of a tail or arm briefly
rising up over the edge.
Suddenly, Binimi rose up. She reached out
desperately trying to escape the two raging women, but
Ukyo grabbed her by each end of her hood thrusting her
back down. The beating resumed then abruptly stopped.
Binimi's unconscious form was tossed over the top.
Ukyo and Kodachi stood, leaning against the consoles
exhausted. They stared down at Binimi, then Kodachi
started to laugh.
"That was quite fun," she said, looking over at
Ukyo.
Ukyo frowned, drawing back. "You're sick,
Kodachi," she replied, climbing up over the top of the
console to secure their prisoner.
Facing off against Teq, Ryoga and Kasumi stood
covering Nabiki as she helped Akane move away from
potential harm. Morea came up, specks of electrical
energy sparkling around her body. A growl from Teq
sounded.
"Morea, get the Regent," he ordered her. "I'll
have these fools ripped to shreds in a moment."
Morea gazed over at Nabiki. "With pleasure," she
said moving towards them.
Ryoga started to block her, but Teq pounced
landing on his chest and they tumbled across the floor.
Kasumi cried out as the two fought, then sprang into
action. Without any forethought, she jumped on the
wolfman's back, grabbing his ears and pulled. Teq
howled in pain, drawing back from Ryoga's throat. He
released him and staggered around trying to shake her
off. A sharp jerk, Kasumi fell painfully to the floor.
Teq whirled. "What were you trying to achieve,
woman?" he snarled down at her.
Kasumi cringed, covering her face protectively
with an arm. Teq drew back, but before he could
deliver his swipe, Ryoga gripped him tightly by the
wrist.
"Not so fast buster. We still have a dance to
finish!"
Ryoga's fist launched Teq through the air,
slamming into the far wall with a resounding crash. He
leaped, yelling loudly, coming down to land another
crushing blow to the wolfman's head. Baying in pain,
Teq tried to crawl away, but Ryoga was having none of
that.
"Come'ere!" he shouted latching on to Teq's tail.
A sharp jerk flung Teq over his head, another jerk
returning him back to his previous spot. Several times
did Ryoga do this until Teq's eyes went cross, glazing
over.
"What a wimp," commented Ryoga. "Not even worth
my efforts. Gosunkugi would be a better challenge."
Kasumi giggled. She suddenly gasped. "Ryoga!"
she said pointing towards Nabiki and Akane.
Morea was still advancing on them, arms held up
ready to shock them both. She cackled loudly, enjoying
the frightened expressions written on their faces.
"Weren't you the one telling me how much pain you
were going to inflict upon me, huh hmmm?" she said to
Nabiki.
Nabiki swallowed hard. "Okay, maybe I did speak
just a bit prematurely," she replied.
"Don't try squirming out of this. I'm going to
enjoy frying you into charred embers."
Running footsteps sounded from behind, Morea
turning in time to see Ryoga racing towards her. She
made a slight step to one side and poked a finger into
the side of his arm. Ryoga cried out, jerking
uncontrollably from the electric shock. He collapsed
in a heap at Morea's feet.
Looking up, she spotted Kasumi tying the final
knots in the length of wire binding Teq's arms.
"No, NO! Get away from him, you, you, you HUMAN!"
she screamed.
A length of wiring snaked suddenly around Morea,
tangling her up. Nabiki pulled several more feet from
the shattered console she was at, looping them as fast
as she could around the struggling alien.
"You want power," she said dragging the exposed
ends over to an arching circuit panel. "Here let me
help you!"
"GGGGGYYYYYYYAAAAAA!" cried Morea as a surge of
power hit her. Even as adapt as her system was, it
could not hold the excessive voltages she was now
receiving. Morea made one last shudder, then collapsed
unconscious.
"Persons got to know their . . . limitations," she
said smiling sardonically.
Alid and Koo scuttled rapidly about the walls,
Mousse, Shampoo, and Konatsu dodging the streams of
webbing being shot down at them. Mousse picked up a
chair, shielding himself from Alid's attempt to ensnare
him.
"Hey, why don't you guys come down here and fight
like men!" he shouted at them.
"Silly request," screeched Koo scrambling across
the overhead trying to get a better shot at Shampoo.
"We're having to much fun playing with you now."
"Playing, eh," said Mousse. He pulled on the
chair drawing it back until the webbing around it
stretched tight. "Well play with this!"
The chair snapped up through the air straight
towards Alid. All the Arachnid could do was screech in
terror as it hit square in his face. Alid's hold
relaxed and he dropped to the deck.
"ALID!" screeched Koo, scrambling down to his
brother's side. There was no response to Koo's frantic
calls, an occasional twitch of a leg the only sign that
any life remained.
Mousse, Konatsu, and Shampoo stood before them.
"You give up now, silly spider-thing?" asked
Shampoo.
Koo turned, body quivering with rage. A horrid
shriek made them grimace, then Koo charged. Shampoo
and Mousse leaped away, but Konatsu stood his ground
waiting for the being to reach him. A strand of
webbing shot out; Konatsu ducking aside. Koo went for
him but the ninja rolled lashing up with a foot that
hit him sharply on one side. He staggered dropping
back only to receive another solid blow from Mousse
that knocked the air from him. In desperation, Koo
tried to leap back up to the overhead.
"No you don't!" said Konatsu. A roundhouse kick
sent Koo winging through the air. Mousse rolled back
catching him at mid-section with his feet.
"Coming your way, Shampoo," he said levering Koo
over his head.
Shampoo cracked her knuckles, waiting ever so long
for this chance of revenge.
"Shampoo not like being wrapped up like fly. Take
this!"
Her warcry barely drowned out the smack of her
fist against the forepart of Koo head. He rocketed
back out of control, slammed into a console, slid down
to the floor and was still.
The three agents waited for him to get up, but
after a moment they realized that this fight was over.
Konatsu smiled. "Well if I must say. I do
believe some `dap' is in order here," he said holding
up his fist.
Exchanging curious looks, the couple traded taps
with Konatsu, and they all burst out laughing.
Now there only remained Krin to defeat, and the
pirate leader was showing no signs of surrendering to
them soon. He noticed the suddenly growing numbers of
agents attacking him and realized that something was
amiss. Batting away Tsubasa and Tatewaki, he retreated
to the center of the room and looked around. The only
people left standing were M.I.B. agents, his crew lying
inert or bound helpless on the floor.
The ring of agents closed around him, and he
snarled.
"Yo, Krin," said Jay. "Looks like your people
here ain't got no juice after all."
"You've lost, Krin," shouted T. "Give up now!"
"Yeah, we gotcha and there's no way to escape,"
Ranma added.
They stood waiting to see what Krin would do next.
He slowly looked around him, briefly stopping on Akane.
"I'm not through with you yet, you insignificant
worms," he said.
"So I see you do want us to pound the stuffing out
of you," said Kasumi much to everyone's surprise.
"You know it's bad when Kasumi-girl here is
talking tough, Krin," said Jay. "I'd suggest you just
go on and throw them hands up in the air."
Krin glanced back at Akane again. He leered
slightly at her, then faced Jay. "Not ever, cretin.
D'skta!"
Without warning the lights went out.

* * * * *

The darkness concealed Krin, allowing him to make
his next move. Naturally, the agents charged hoping to
get a hold of him before he made good any escape. That
was not what lay on Krin's mind though, and a confused
scuffle broke out.
"Where is he!" shouted Ranma swinging blindly
around hoping a lucky shot would catch Krin.
"Like we know!" snapped Ryoga from the murk.
Somebody let out a cry, then a crash sounded
followed by several more screams.
"Who was that?" shouted T.
"Sounded like Ukyo!" replied Tsubasa.
"Find a light switch!" said Elle.
Heavy steps ran through the room, then a blow
landed against one of them. A piercing shriek cut the
air, and Ranma immediately recognized it.
"AKANE!" he cried desperately trying to find his
way to her.
"HELP ME!" she shouted.
"Damn, Krin's got Akane!" said Jay.
"It sounds like he's heading for the doors!"
called Tatewaki.
Ranma stopped and listened for Krin's steps. He
concentrated and homed in on the sound. Turning to his
left, Ranma ran not caring who he ran over in the
process. The doors leading out of the control room
parted and Krin's silhouette appeared at the threshold.
He could see Akane struggling in his grip as the pirate
dragged her out.
Jay stood not far away from the doors, turning
around in time to see Krin run out. Ranma suddenly
leaped, and Jay reacted. He dived, barely passing
between the closing doors. They clanged shut sealing
the rest of the M.I.B. agents and Krin's pirates
inside. Rolling to a stop against the wall, Jay
quickly sat up. Krin was already out of sight around
the next bend; Ranma in full stride after him. The
frantic beating against the door brought him around.
"Hold on man, I'll get you guys out of there!" he
shouted.
"Don't bother, Jay!" T shouted back. "Get after
Krin before he kills Akane and the Regent."
"You guys gonna be alright?"
"Just go, man!" shouted Tatewaki.
"Okay, okay, I'm gone, I'm gone!"
Jay sprinted down the corridor, wondering how he
and Ranma were going to be able to stop someone the
likes of Krin by themselves.
It wasn't going to be easy.

* * * * *

Despite her pain, Akane fought and thrashed about
in Krin's grasp trying to get free. Blood began to
stain the front of the makeshift bandage over the
wound, but she continued knowing quite well what Krin
would do to her and the Regent both if he managed to
find enough time to complete his devious work.
Suddenly, Krin flung her through another accessway.
She slammed into the wall beyond and slid to the mesh
deck dazed.
Krin stepped in. He reached over to the panel on
the wall and with a low hiss, the door closed down
behind him. Setting the lock, he turned and glared
down at her.
"Now Tendo, it is time for me to finish what I
started," he said.
Akane's head slowly came up, speckles of light
still playing about her eyes. A clawed hand clasped
around her throat and she was jerked from the deck.
Krin raised his other hand, flexing his fingers.
"Sorry I don't have the proper utensils, but it does
not matter anyway."
Warmth passed through Akane, what little energy
the Regent inside could spare being passed on to her.
It was enough to raise her awareness, and she lashed
out kicking Krin sharply in the stomach, the only real
soft spot of his body. The air rushed from the
lizardman and he dropped Akane, doubling over. Pain
shot through Akane's chest as she landed, but she got
up and ran as fast as her injuries would allow down the
corridor.
"CCCOOOOOMMMMEE BBAACCKK HHHEEERREE!" growled
Krin. Akane staggered around the bend.
Pulling himself to his feet, Krin let out a roar
dashing after her.

* * * * *

"We need to get these lights back on," said Elle.
"Glator, where the hell are you?"
There was a hum, then the lights snapped back on.
Glator stood before one of the wall panels, pressing a
series of buttons.
"About time you did that," commented Ryoga.
"Sorry," Glator replied.
While the rest of the group dragged their
restrained prisoners to the center of the room; T and
Kasumi went to help Nabiki and Ukyo lying on the floor.
Krin's frantic attack had caught Nabiki across the top
of her left shoulder, blood staining the edges of the
slashing wounds. Nabiki grimaced as her sister sat her
up.
"Oh great, my first brawl and what do I get? Cut
like some block of cheese."
Ukyo, the right side of her face swelling from the
blow she took, leaned against T as he lifted her up to
her feet. "Well at least you can say you've been in a
fight now," she said.
Placing Ukyo in a chair, T returned his attention
to their current dilemma. The guys were busy attacking
the door, trying to pry it apart with brute strength.
It was doing them no good though and they stepped back.
"Glator, you can pull these things apart, can't
you?" asked Ryoga.
Glator headed for the doors, but just as he was
about to touch them, a ripple of energy washed across
the surface driving him back. He looked up at the
overhead. "D'skta."
Tsubasa frowned. "Disco?" he questioned.
"The ships computer. Krin still has control of
it."
"Can you override it?" asked T.
"That was not my area."
A laugh sounded, everyone turning to see Qu'tok
chuckling uncontrollably.
"You M.I.B. people still have not learned," he
said. "As long as Krin has control of D'skta, he has
control of this ship."
"You better start thinking about changing that,
buster!" Tsubasa yelled furiously at him.
"Otherwise, I might have to conduct an operation
of my own," added Kodachi, letting out her sinister
laugh.
"There's no time for that," said T. Is there
anyway we can see where Jay, Krin and Ranma are right
now?"
"That I can help you with," replied Glator.
Going to the command chair, Glator activated the
main screen. Parts of it were broken in places, but
enough of it remained so the agents could see the
corridor Jay was currently moving down. Another panel
appeared, Ranma standing before a closed door beating
frantically on the controls on the wall.
"This doesn't look good," said Mousse.
"Why are Jay and Ranma not together?" asked
Konatsu.
"It has to be this computer's doing," Elle
deduced. "It's closing doors, keeping them apart just
like it's trapped us in here."
"That mean Ranma and Jay not together when Krin
find them," said Shampoo.
"And by themselves, Krin will tear them apart,"
finished T.
Glator looked down at the panel again, then drew
slightly back. Scratching the side of his head, he
brought up another panel. Akane appeared staggering
down a corridor, face twisted in agony. Her fingers
were bloody as she pressed the makeshift bandage tight
to her chest.
"Akane got away from Krin!" exclaimed Nabiki.
"Yes, but she's not going to get far if she keeps
bleeding like that," said Elle.
Kasumi moved closer to the screen. "Akane, Akane,
go back to Ranma!" she pleaded up at the image. Akane
could not hear her, staggering to a stop next to
another door. Her head whipped sharply up, eyes
growing wide as Krin appeared at the far end.
"Run, Akane, Run!" cried Tatewaki.
"Brother dear, she cannot hear you," Kodachi
reminded him.
"There must be something we can do," said Ukyo.
On the screen, Akane was pressing the open button
for the doors with no success.
"Why aren't they opening?" T asked Glator.
"D'skta," he answered.
They could see Akane cry out to the sky, tears
streaming down her cheeks. With a short flutter of her
eyes, Akane suddenly placed a hand on the panel. It
glowed, and the two doors parted long enough for her to
dive through.
"That a boy, Regent!" Ryoga said ecstatically.
Moments later Krin arrived. The doors opened, but
Akane had vanished.
"Where are they at?" asked Elle.
"That is Engineering. Akane Tendo is sure to be
caught in there."
T did not like the helpless feeling inside of him.
He started pacing, trying to figure out a way to help
Akane before it was too late.
"We've got to override this computer," he said.
Glator shook his head. "Like I said, the only
person I know who can do that is Qu'tok."
"Don't look to me for any help," said Qu'tok.
Ryoga was just about to pummel the Mantin to death
when Nabiki called him.
"Help me up," she said. He pulled her from her
chair. "Glator, where's this `Diskwhatever's
monitoring panel?"
Glator pointed over to a console and Ryoga quickly
carried her over to it. The top was battered from the
fight, but it was still functional.
"What are you going to do, Nabiki?" Ryoga asked
her.
"I'm going to try and bypass this machine," she
replied.
"Miss Tendo, that is a remote station. I would
think D'skta has heard you, and has disconnected
himself from it."
"Yeah, but this is still a operating station, so
that means there has to be control circuits and relays
in it."
"But what good will that do?" asked Tsubasa. "For
that matter, how are you going to do that if you don't
even know what type of technology their using?"
Nabiki told Ryoga to open the front panel up. "A
computer is still a computer no matter who builds it.
There are basic laws that are universal and have to be
followed."
"Like?"
"I send out a signal, something happens on the
other end. Got it now?"
"Okay. So what signal are you going to send out
first?" asked Elle.
"I'll try to get the doors opened. If Ranma and
Jay can get down to Engineering, Akane will have a
chance."
Undoing the last clip, Ryoga yanked open the
panel. A myriad of solid crystal couplings, conduit
wires, and micro panels made both of them grimace.
"I hope you can get this right," said Ryoga,
giving her a doubtful look.
Nabiki let out a deep sigh and began shifting
around connectors.

* * * * *

The smell of blood filled Krin's nostrils,
stopping him briefly to take in the vibrant coppery
scent. That would make tracking her down all the more
easier. He imagined the taste of her flesh, the
tearing of sinew and muscle between his teeth,
salivating unconsciously at the thought.
Slowly, he gazed around the Engine room focusing
on the strongest trail. There were several places
Akane Tendo could hide amidst among the walkways and
levels around the large room, but Krin knew she could
not avoid him forever. It was only a matter of time
before she finally collapsed from the loss of blood, or
the overheating caused by her union with the Regent.
He closed the door, setting it to lock and moved
to the railing. "TTTTTTTEEEEEEENNNNNNDDDDDDOOOOOOO,"
he called out with a devious smile.
Akane hunkered in a small crawlway up under the
run of a large pipe, trembling fearfully trying to
remain silent. She heard the call and let out a low
whimper. Tears welled up in her eyes and she quickly
wiped them away.
"Ranma . . . Guardian," she whispered low
imagining he could hear her desperate plea for help.
Krin drew in another deep breath. The scent drew
him towards the steps leading down, and he was just
about to descend to the next level when the lights
flickered. Looking up in confusion, he growled. The
door to engineering briefly snapped open.
"D'skta! What are you doing?" he shouted up to
his computer.
[I am doing nothing, Krin. It is one of those
M.I.B. agents toying around with my relay systems.]
"Well then kill them!"
[What about our people?]
"They failed me, so they deserve to die as well!"
In the Control Room, shock passed through Krin's
pirates at his harsh remark.
"WWWHHHAAAT!" cried Binimi jerking upright.
"Have to just admire that `Brotherly love'," said
Mousse.
Sadness covered Morea's face, the comment hitting
her especially hard. "I, I can't believe he said
that," she said.
"He did," commented Elle. "Now what do you think
about your illustrious leader?"
Binimi jerked against her bindings. "Lleeettt
mmmeee gooo. III'll killl hhhiimmmm mmmyyyysselllfff.
Untie mmmeeee!"
The closing of vents suddenly sounded around the
room, all eyes cutting up to the overhead.
"That not sound good," said Shampoo.
Qu'tok calmly leaned back, looking over to
Konatsu. "You, female looking human male. Go over to
that panel on the wall behind you."
Konatsu smirked, not sure if he should do what
Qu'tok asked. He glanced up at T, and the M.I.B. agent
gave him a nod. Konatsu opened the panel and stared at
the multi-colored lights arrayed before him.
"And?" asked Konatsu.
Before Qu'tok could answer, D'skta called down to
him. [Qu'tok, you would not help these humans now,
would you?]
Qu'tok's brief snap of his mandibles was his only
reply. A hiss filled the room. Everyone dropped to
the deck clutching their throats as the computer began
drawing the air out.
"It's. . . going. . . to. . . suffocate. . . us!"
Elle gasped.
Qu'tok turned back to Konatsu. "The. . . blue. .
. circuit strip. Pull it. . . if you. . . would. . .
please. . . Quickly!"
Konatsu's fingers desperately fumbled across the
front of the circuits He found the edge and with a
sharp jerk pulled the strip from the panel.
Immediately the vacuum stopped and the vents reopened.
T pulled himself up and went over to Qu'tok.
"Control of the doors!" he said.
"That will take a few moments," replied Qu'tok.
Still not trusting him, T called Ryoga and Mousse
over. They carried the Mantin over to Nabiki. "Tell
her how to do it."
Qu'tok agreed, dictating the proper instructions
to Nabiki.
Back down in the passageways, Ranma continued
fighting with the sealed door separating him from
Akane. He let out a sigh and stopped realizing he was
getting nowhere. With the door at the other end shut,
there was no place to go. Akane was doomed and it was
all his fault. Ranma rested his forehead against the
smooth metal.
"I'm sorry, Akane," he muttered. "Some Guardian I
turned out to be."
Without warning the door slid open. Ranma let out
a yell of surprise as he flopped down to the deck.
[Ranma! Ranma get up and get down to Engineering.
Krin's got Akane cornered down there!]
It was Elle's voice blaring down at him from the
overhead. Ranma scrambled to his feet. "Which way?"
he called out.
[Straight, then left. Hurry!]
In another passageway, Jay listened to Elle's
instructions, then started shouting up to the hidden
speakers. "Yo' Elle! Hey, open this damn door so I
can get down there and help Ranma!"
The door in front of him snapped open. [Hang a
right at the first intersection, then left at the end,]
Elle told him.
"Yeah, I'm on it!" Jay dashed down the corridor.
In engineering, Krin also stopped his search when
he heard Elle's voice cut across the intercom. The
only thing that could mean was that D'skta had somehow
lost control, or had been overridden. From the sounds
of things, Ranma and Jay were on their way here to stop
him from killing Akane and the Regent.
The thudding of footsteps from outside warned him
that company was quickly approaching. Krin snarled,
barring his teeth then slipped quickly off out of sight
amongst the equipment.
Ranma came to a stop at the entrance to
Engineering. Pressing up against the side, he
cautiously hid the access button. Nothing happened.
"Elle!" he shouted.
Elle could see his dilemma. Turning, she glared
at Qu'tok. "Well?"
Qu'tok watched as Nabiki carefully moved fibers
and filaments around the microboards. "Patience,
M.I.B. female. We are working on this," he replied.
Nabiki pushed the last strand in place, and on the
screen the door to Engineering slid open. Ranma
flashed a thumb up, then peered around the corner. No
Krin, he slipped in began searching for Akane.
"Can we get a view in there?" asked Ryoga.
"One thing at a time, Ryoga," Nabiki answered.
"Forget that, let's get our doors open so we can
go down and help them," said Ukyo.
"I'm working as fast as I can!" shouted Nabiki.
"Release me and I can do what you ask faster than
this woman here," said Qu'tok.
T paused but only for a moment. He reached down
and undid Qu'tok's bindings. The Mantin rose up.
"Don't try anything stupid," T said narrowing his
eyes at him.
"Thanks to you, I'm not in any condition to do
that."
Nabiki moved aside allowing Qu'tok to lean down
over the open panel. Kasumi gently took his shattered
arm and pressed it up close to his body. Much to his
surprise, she began dressing his wounds.
"That is very nice of you. . . for a human," he
said.
"Just help my sister," she answered.
Touched by her kindness, Qu'tok nodded. "I'll do
what I can."

* * * * *

Arriving at the door to engineering, Jay stopped
and peered inside. Finding the walkway clear he went
in and stood gazing around the room.
"Saotome!" he called.
From amidst the equipment and machinery, Ranma
voice called back.
"Yeah that its, Jay. Let Krin know we're here."
"Don't be a smartass, Sat-man! That fool probably
knew we were here already."
"Who are you calling a fool?" Krin's throaty growl
said.
"RANMA!" cried Akane.
"Stay quiet, Akane," Ranma told her.
Jay looked around for anything he could use as a
weapon. Three thick, clear round rods sat in a holder
next to the door. Pulling the middle sized one out, he
hefted it in his hand feeling its weight. No matter
what material it was made out of, it was something he
could use. Jay held it like a baseball bat ready to
swing at the first sign of trouble. He moved to the
stairwell leading towards the upper tiers and began his
search in this deadly game of cat and mouse.
In her hiding spot, Akane remained perfectly still
awaiting the arrival of Ranma or Jay. Her eyes cut
from side to side searching for any sign of them, worse
yet the appearance of Krin. That thought she tried to
suppress, but a slight shudder creased her spine.
Inside her, Akane could feel the once warm ember
of the Regent fading, and with it her own existence.
She was parched, light-headed and dizzy from all the
loss of blood. Mentally she told the Regent to hold on
a bit longer, trying to pass on a bit of her own life
forces to him. It seemed to work, the warm feeling
growing steady for the moment.
A scraping noise suddenly caught Akane's ears from
above. She drew in a breath, trying to focus on it,
pressing closer to the mesh walkway. It sounded again,
much nearer now. Akane wanted to call out to Ranma,
but knew that would only expose her position.
Carefully, she pulled herself out from under the pipe
and crawled on all fours to the outer walk way.
It was empty and she scrambled on staying low,
hugging the side of the machinery humming lightly in
their task. A strange bright pinkish-white glow shined
up through the section she passed over. Akane stopped
and peered down at it, watching as a stream of energy
traveled in brief pulses up and down three large
transparent tubes surrounded by a protective
containment field.
"Electro-Plasma Drive System," hissed a voice from
above.
Akane turned spotting Krin clinging to the side of
a machine casing by one hand. He leaped down
straddling her and she screamed. Krin took a fistful
of Akane's hair and yanked her from the floor. Her
cries increased, legs kicking madly as the pirate stood
eyeing her victoriously. Drawing his free hand back,
he raised her higher to get a better shot at her chest.
"RAAAANNNNMMMMMAAA!" wailed Akane.
Krin laughed then jerked violently forwards with
Ranma wrapped tightly on his back. The three tumbled
to the walkway in a tangle of arms and legs. Akane
pulled away as Ranma wrestled with the raging lizard
man.
"Get out of here, Akane!" he shouted at her. She
backed off, then Krin rose up on his knees. He pitched
back, slamming Ranma into the side of the machinery.
Ranma yelled but kept his grip, landing a punch to the
side of Krin's earhole. A loud growl of pain sounded;
Krin staggering to his feet trying to shake Ranma off.
He pitched back again and this time Ranma hit the
corner. The pain was too much for him and he released
Krin falling away.
Krin's chest heaved with anger as he rounded on
him. He made a swipe, the taloned claws making an evil
hiss through the air, but Ranma rolled to the side.
Crawling back, Ranma found his footing and lunged
plunging a knee into Krin's side. It felt like he had
just hit one of their practice bags at the dojo, a dull
thud sounding. The thrust barely phased Krin. He
backhanded Ranma, knocking him to the side of the
railing.
"No!" shouted Akane. She kicked Krin in the back,
stopping his advance on Ranma.
It was the break Ranma needed. Jumping to his
feet, another blow to the side of the head sent Krin
staggering. He turned only to receive a combination of
punches on the chin. Pale red blood began to flow from
Krin's bottom lip, several teeth knocked askew in his
mouth. A kick sent him staggering back. Akane went to
her hands and knees, tripping Krin over her back. He
crashed to the walkway.
Ranma knelt beside her. "Akane, are you okay?" he
asked her.
Even as weak as they were, Akane smiled. "I knew
you'd come," she said resting her head on his chest.
Krin slowly sat up, his deep grumble prefacing the fury
he was about to unleash on them. Taking off his
jacket, Ranma placed it around Akane's shoulders.
"Stay behind me," he said, moving her back.
Akane crawled away; Ranma standing up ready to
face Krin once more. He slowly retreated before the
incensed alien, waiting for him to attack. Krin raised
his arms ready to pounce, when a sturdy tap hit him on
the shoulder from behind.
From out of the gap between two of the machines,
Jay stepped out. "Yo, Krin," he said as the pirate
turned. "You wanna stop picking on those kids and
tangle with somebody whose got a little more
firepower?"
BLIP!
Krin's head rattled as the pipe in Jay's hand
caught him up under the chin. He slammed up against
the railing, sagging like a raggity-anne doll to his
knees. The shock was only brief and Krin stood up.
"Now I'm going to teach you a few things about
riot control and baton fighting courtesy of the New
York City Police Department!"
A sharp jab hit Krin in the left eye, another jab
to the nose drawing blood with a satisfying crunch.
Whatever the rod of made out of, it was better than
steel, strong enough to make Krin scramble back out of
harms way. Ranma suddenly kicked him in the back
sending him forward.
"Where you think you going, Krin," said Jay
landing a few more blows to his chest. "You had this
ass kicking come'in for a long time now!"
Krin lashed out, but Jay deflected the blow. He
rolled the bar around his body bringing it up the other
side while ducking beneath Krin's wild throws, smashing
him across the top of his head. By now the pirate was
a mess, blood and other unrecognizable liquids
streaming from his nostrils and mouth.
Deliberately, Jay stepped back to build up another
strike that would end this fight. He swung the bar
down, but Krin was far from defeat. He caught the bar
in one hand, Jay jerking to a surprised stop. Several
grunts sounded from Jay as he exerted more energy into
his efforts. Nothing doing, Krin stood up. A quick
swipe sent the bar end over end over the railing,
clattering out of view.
"Uh oh," said Jay.
The blood stopped flowing to Jay's head as Krin
clutched him by the throat, lifting him up out over the
railing. Realizing what this mad being was about to
do, Jay hooked his legs over the top rail straining to
keep from being tossed to his death.
"... yo, Sat-man," he gasped.
Ranma frowned, crossing his arms. "It's Saotome,"
he said.
"... aaaghhgh . . . What?"
"It's Saotome. Say it!"
A blow to the leg startled Ranma. He looked down
to see Akane glaring angrily up at him. There were no
need for words.
Ranma tackled Krin; Jay crying out while dangling
precariously over the side. As the two fought, Jay
strained to pull himself up. He reached out barely
taking hold of the rail. Ranma slammed up next to him.
"Kind'a reminds me of that WWF stuff you Americans
have on TV," he said with a laugh.
A roar from Krin made both of them cry out as he
attacked. Jay let his legs drop free, swinging like a
monkey out of harms way. Ranma dived up under Krin's
hulking form, and the pirate landed mouth first on the
metal railing. Taking advantage of the situation,
Ranma grabbed Krin by the legs, Jay by the back of the
head. Together they pulled him over the side.
With arms flailing, Krin let out a steady shriek
as he headed towards the decks below. He hit the
protective power field, sparks arching around his body.
Another sharp flash scorched his hide. Ranma, Jay, and
Akane watched as Krin's smoking body finally hit the
bottom. They were silent, then Jay looked up at Ranma.
"WWF?" he said.
"Seemed like it," Ranma replied.
"Ha, ha, ha, funny. You want to help me up now?"
Ranma leaned on the railing, grinning wide.
Jay smirked. "Saotome," he finished.
"Much better," replied Ranma, extending a hand.


















The end, and what will they do?

See Y'all in December :-)
------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------


Part Seven

And the Verdict is?


Rushing Akane down to the infirmary of M.I.B.
Tokyo, Kasumi and Elle stabilized her condition. In
the control room, Zed listened as T made his final
report.
"Krin and his pirates have been safely locked away
awaiting transport to a prison colony," he said. A
quick glance to the side at Glator made him pause.
"Most of them," he corrected himself.
[Excellent. What about Akane and the Regent?]
"They are still in critical condition, and the
wounds Akane suffered did not help matters."
Zed nodded. [The Mocabian Fleet is just now
making orbit. You should be receiving them at any
moment.]
"They going to fly down?" asked Jay.
[Not exactly, Agent J,] replied Zed.
Glitters of light suddenly began flickering about
the room, growing brighter with each passing second.
The agents had to cover their eyes and when the it
faded, standing in a large group was the Mocabian
delegation. A good three meters taller than Glator,
the translucent multi-limbed beings stood surrounded by
a shimmering blue field of energy, looking about them
in search of their kin.
[The Regent?] said the center most Mocabian.
"Uh, yeah Scotty," replied Jay. "Down the hall,
catch the elevator, go straight, can't miss him."
The Mocabians stared at him, then the light
returned and they faded out of view.
Jay turned only to find Zed glaring down at him
with eyes slit.
[Scotty,] he seethed.
"Oh, there goes that Chi again," said Konatsu,
backing away from the screen.
Jay swallowed hard. "Didn't like my directions?"
he said.
Zed let out a deep sigh. [Why I keep you on, Jay,
I don't know. You are such a Lilieekiou.]
"Yo, T! You gonna tell me what that means now,
man!"
T chuckled. "Later, Jay," he said waving him
away.
"Naw man, none of this later stuff. You got the
Zedmeister talking smack now!"
[Later, Agent J,] said Zed. [Let's worry about
our charges right now than some nickname, that fits you
perfectly I might add.]
Jay held back his protest, shaking visibly. "You
gonna tell me before I leave Japan, T," he finished.
Half an hour later the doors opened, Elle leading
Kasumi and Akane inside. Akane looked a bit worse for
wear, but she was moving along under her own power.
Ranma was the first one to her side.
"Akane?" he asked.
She stopped, blinking her eyes for a moment then
looked up at him. "Ranma?" she answered.
Ranma hugged her tight.
"Unhand my fair Akane, you cur!" shouted Tatewaki.
"You better retract those paws, Ranma Saotome,"
Ukyo said edging out of her chair.
"RRRanmaaa!" growled Ryoga.
"Oh, stop it," scolded Elle. "Can't you see he's
just worried about her.
"He better worry about tomorrow, if there is one
for him!" snapped Shampoo.
Akane stood surprised by Ranma's show of emotions.
She drew back, gazing deep into his eyes. Ranma
realized his loss of control then, blushing as he
turned away. A gentle hand touched him on the
shoulder.
"Thank you for the concern, Ranma," she said.
"Yeah, ah, yeah just uhm, worried about you after
that cut you took from Krin!"
"The Mocabians healed it up," said Kasumi.
Akane parted her shirt showing them the spot where
she had been injured. Not a mark remained.
"Wow," gasped Tsubasa.
"Speaking of which, where are the Mocabians?"
asked Mousse.
A button on the console behind Ringo beeped
alerting him to an incoming signal. Dividing the main
screen, the image of the Regent appeared. Now shrouded
in a life protecting field, he raised a tentacle and
waved.
[I am grateful to you all for taking care of me in
my time of need,] translated the computer. [Especially
to you, Akane Tendo, for bearing me as long as you did.
You risked you life, and I am in your debt.]
Akane's cheeks flushed. "Please, I would do it
again if it meant saving a life," she replied.
[Such kind words. Take care my friends, my
Guardians.]
The screen faded.
"Well, looks like M.I.B. saves the world again,"
said Jay.
"Yes, but I would like to know one thing," said
Kodachi. "How did they get the Regent out of Akane?"
"Trust me, you don't want to know," said Elle.
"It wasn't just a quick `zip-zap' like they did
when they arrived?" asked Mousse.
Kasumi gave them all a slight shake of the head.
"Hmm, that might have been interesting to see,"
continued Kodachi. "Was there any pain involved?"
Tatewaki smacked his sister on the back of the
head. "Any pain involved. Such a demented mind."
"Sick, just sick, Kodachi," added Ukyo.
"I can see things are coming back to normal," said
T. "Guess this closes out the case."
[Not quite, Agent T,] said Zed. [There is still
one matter left uncovered.]
He gave the gang a knowing look and T understood.
"We will take care of it now, Zed."
[Let me know what the results are, T.]
Zed's image faded out.
"So what's he talking about?" asked Ranma.
Jay, Elle ,and T huddled before the main console
to confer a moment. They broke, turning to face them.
"It is time for you to make a decision," said T.
"A decision?" questioned Ranma, then he recalled
the special condition they were operating under. "It
is time for that, isn't it?"
"Yep," said Jay. "So what'ch y'all gonna do?"
"Believe me when I say I really think you guys
have strong possibilities in M.I.B.," added Elle.
"And I would not mind having you here working with
me," said T.
Ranma went into deep thought. Excusing himself,
he turned waving the rest of the gang over. They
huddled close, mild and sharp words passing back and
forth between them. The debate carried on for a few
minutes longer, then they all faced the agents again.
"So?" asked Jay.
A nervous silence passed, everyone looking at
Ranma. "Oh leave it to me to pass on bad new," he
said. Clearing his throat, Ranma stepped forward.
"As much as we like M.I.B., we've all decided we'd
like to go back to our regular lives."
"You see there is still a lot we'd all like to
do," Akane said. "A lot of things we haven't done, or
said yet."
"And it's not like we think the job sucks or
nothing," added Ryoga. Ukyo nudged him hard in the
side of the ribs.
"What he means is. . . we don't want our lives to
just end incomplete," she said.
"You're asking us to give up a lot of things,"
added Mousse. "You know, marriage, kids--."
"Wealth," commented Nabiki.
T felt disappointed. He liked this group but
understood where they were coming from. So long ago he
could remember having to make the same choice.
"Is that everyone's final choice?" he asked. The
gang nodded their heads. "So be it," said T with a
sigh.
"At least we can say thanks for the opportunity to
be M.I.B. agents," said Konatsu. "Now I know how to
exchange `Dap'. A strange American custom, but
interesting."
Jay laughed; Elle swatting him on the arm chiding
him about teaching bad habits to others. T whispered
something to Ringo and he briefly left the room.
"Hey, T," Ryoga said. "What are you guys going to
do about Glator here?"
T looked up at Glator. "We'll probably send him
to rehab instruction off world, then make him a Agent,"
he answered.
Glator grinned. "I would be honored," he said.
"That's got to be your doing, Elle," said Jay.
"Ryoga ain't got that kind of influence in him."
Elle shrugged. "So I made him the perfect Agent.
What I would do to get you under the light for a few
minutes."
"Dream on, girlfriend. Just keep your hands away
from those flash sticks when I'm around."
Ringo returned holding a Nuralizer in one
tentacle.
"Thank you, Ringo," said T taking it from him. He
powered it up.
"Are we ready?"
"Anytime you are," said Ranma.
The gang gathered together preparing themselves
for the upcoming flash. T waited for the others to don
their sunglasses, then held up the nuralizer.
"I will say I will miss you all," he said.
"Yeah, that goes for me too," added Jay. "Even
you, Saotome despite your hardheaded self."
"I'm not having any regrets, Jay," answered Ranma.
"Good bye everyone," Elle said. "Sorry we
couldn't convince you otherwise."
"Keep us in mind," said Mousse. The rest of the
gang shot him dark looks. "Hey, just for emergencies,
okay!"
Akane smiled at the M.I.B. agents. "I'm going to
miss you all too," she said.
T placed his thumb on the trigger. "No you're
not.".
FOOSH!

* * * * *

FOOSH!
Tatewaki Kuno blinked his eyes, focusing them as
they returned to normal. He was seated at the desk in
the family den, a relaxed feeling running through him.
He felt the suns warm rays beaming down over his
shoulder and leaned forwards to look at the clock on
the wall.
It read ten o'clock, quite early for him to be
stirring from a nap. Rubbing the bridge of his nose,
Tatewaki stared down at the papers covering the desk.
Ah, yes. Work, the instantaneous sleeping pill he
thought.
Something bothered him though. The day did not
feel right at all. It was as if he'd lost something,
some part of time that he could not recall at the
present moment. Standing up, he stood before the
window. A light moan sounded and he turned.
An arm raised up over the backrest of the couch,
Kodachi Kuno slowly sitting up from what appeared to be
a long and restful nap. She yawned and looked around.
"Tachi, what are you doing in my bedroom?" she
asked him.
"Bedroom? Kodachi, dear sister, you are in the
den."
Kodachi blinked. She looked around again.
"Well so I am."
"The question is, why?"
"I don't know, brother dear. It is quite
strange."
Tatewaki rubbed his chin. "Yes. I can't grasp
it, but I could have sworn I was on a mission of great
importance."
Rising for the couch, Kodachi walked over. She
frowned, apparently confused. "You know, I feel the
same way," she said.
"Strange. I know, why don't you go and feed
Mister Turtle some live kittens. That might shake that
feeling from your mind."
She drew back, repulsed by the thought. "How
vulgar, dear brother," said Kodachi. "Why would I want
to go and do such a terrible thing like that for?"
This was not like Kodachi thought her brother.
Turn down a chance to administer pain and undue
suffering?
"Are you alright, sister?"
Kodachi smiled. She gazed out into empty space,
and gave her head a brief twitch. "Hoo, hoo, hoo, hoo
. . . I feel wonderful. In fact I feel like doing
something nice."
Tatewaki gaped at her. "Nice?"
"Yes. Something like, giving money to a charity.
What do you think?"
Frozen in shock, Tatewaki stared at her. "Lead
on," he finally said gesturing towards the double
doors. "This even I must see."

* * * * *

FOOSH!
Mousse and Shampoo blinked, gazing groggily around
them. They stood on the corner across the street from
the Neko Hanten, their delivery bikes resting on the
ground beside them. Wondering why they were just
standing there, the couple exchanged confused looks.
"What happen, Mousse?" asked Shampoo.
"Long delivery?" he replied.
Gazing back at the caf', the two slowly reached
down and retrieved their bikes.
"We better get back before great grandma get
upset," said Shampoo.
They crossed the street and went around to the
back door. Slowly, Shampoo peered inside. The kitchen
was clear and she scurried in, Mousse following close
behind her. Grabbing their aprons, the two were just
about ready when Cologne bounded through the doors.
"Ah HA!" she cried, startling them.
"Great Grandma!" cried Shampoo cheerfully. "We
just get back and--,"
"So how was it?" Cologne asked.
"It?" questioned Mousse.
"You trip. How was your trip to the mountains?"
Shampoo shot Mousse a confused glance.
"Uhm, it was . . . fun," replied Mousse.
"Good, good!" exclaimed Cologne. "Can't have my
employees overworked now can we?"
She hopped over to a boiling pot and started
ladling out some noodles into a bowl. "So you two did
`commune' like I suggested," she said over her
shoulder.
This was getting strange to them. Cologne
authorizing time off, and allowing Shampoo to be alone
with Mousse? The elderly sage noticed their silence.
"What is wrong? You two did not get into a fight
now, did you?"
"No, great grandma. We just tired after long ride
back," answered Shampoo.
"I see," she replied. Hopping over to Mousse,
Cologne peered close into his eyes. "You do look a
little tired, Mousse. Come over here and sit down."
Mousse literally passed out from shock. He was
not used to Cologne ever caring about his well being
ever. The notion alone was worth printing in the daily
papers. Still amazed, he went over to the chair she
offered him and sat down.
"This isn't a trick is it, Cologne?"
"Why no, dear boy!" she replied. "I just want you
to be in top shape for work that's all. Shampoo, go
get your man a glass of water!"
"Yes, great grandm--,"
Now it was Shampoo's turn to stagger. She braced
herself against the side of the wall. "My man?" she
gasped.
Mouse, slumped down in the chair, could not
believe what he heard. "Her man?" he exclaimed.
"Why yes," replied Cologne.
"I not get it. I thought Ranma man for Shampoo.
Cologne sneered at her. "That useless lout!
Where did you get such a notion?"
"From you, great grandma."
"Bah! You silly thing. Ranma? Don't make me
laugh. Now hurry up and get that water."
Shampoo literally jumped. "Yes, great
grandmother!" she said scurrying out the kitchen.
"And some food too!" Cologne called after her.
Taking one of Mousse's hands in hers, she began
stroking it tenderly.
"Later on we must talk about your living
conditions, Mousse. I'm sure Shampoo will be more than
gracious to share space with you."
Mousse could not believe his sudden change of
luck. He was not sure, but something happened to them.
Sitting back, he let a smile come to his face.
For good or bad, he was not about to change
things.

* * * * *

FOOSH!
Ukyo blinked, shaking her head to clear her
vision. She stood behind the counter of Uuchans
holding a spatula in her hand, the sizzle of cooking
okonomiyaki filling the air. For a second she gazed
around sensing that something was not right, that she'd
missed something.
"Excuse me!" called a customer from down the
counter. "Can I get my order now?"
From out of the back, Konatsu appeared. "I'll
take it," he said to her.
Ukyo frowned. This wasn't right, she thought
staring at the man. Tsubasa came from around the
corner carrying a stack of dishes in his hands. He set
them down, and sighed.
"Boy, can these people eat," he said.
Ukyo set the spatula down. "Okay, what gives
here?" she asked them.
Konatsu arch a brow. "What is the matter, Ukyo?"
"You, you're the matter!" she replied.
Tsubasa leaned around Ukyo staring at Konatsu. He
gave him a brief once over, then drew back.
"Nope, don't see anything wrong with him," he said
taking the dishes in back.
"It's not his looks that's wrong, it's the fact
that he's here at all!"
"Did I miss a schedule change?" said Konatsu. He
excused himself from their customer and stepped into
the back office. "Hmm, I don't see any schedule
changes," he said as he walked back out holding a
calendar in his hands.
Ukyo stormed over and snatched it from him. Nope,
all the day time shifts for this month were filled with
his and Tsubasa's name. "This can't be right," she
said in disbelief.
Tsubasa stuck his head out of the back. "Why not.
After all you said we were the best daytime team you've
ever had."
"Well said my hard working brethren," joked
Konatsu.
"Gimme some `Dap'," replied Tsubasa.
The two exchanged a series of taps and Ukyo rubbed
her eyes. Those two, working together without fuss,
she wondered. Things were getting stranger to her as
the seconds passed. She reached down pulling a stool
out from beneath the counter.
"Ukyo, are you alright?" asked Konatsu.
"No . . . I could have sworn Ranma was scheduled
to work here during the days."
"Now that's cruel. Breaking him and Akane up
knowing that they need the time together to study for
test. Shame on you, woman."
Ukyo's head snapped up, locking angrily on him.
Her fury quickly passed, thinking how much sense the
arrangement suddenly made to her. Rubbing the side of
her head, she stood up.
"Yes, I completely forgot. I'm sorry."
"No harm done. What say we get back to work."
Konatsu winked, returning to the customers waiting
to place their orders.
Ukyo glanced at the schedule one last time, then
set it aside returning her attention to the patrons in
her restaurant.

* * * * *

FOOSH!
Akane Tendo stirred from her slumber, shifting
slightly in the bed she lay in. Her head rested on
something warm, but pleasantly firm and she smiled
rubbing a hand along the side.
That was until her pillow drew in a deep breath.
Immediately, Akane's eyes snapped open. She
looked up to find Ranma snoring lightly on his back,
oblivious to the world. Akane slowly drew back then
realized that she wore nothing more than the top of her
pajamas and a pair of panties. That was enough for
her.
She shrieked at the top of her lungs, grabbing the
covers from the futon and retreated to the far end.
Ranma woke up with a start, siting up looking around
frantically.
"Where's the fire, where's the fire!" he shouted.
"There's no fire you idiot!" shouted Akane.
"Ranma what the hell are you doing in my bedroom?"
Ranma stopped. His eyes roamed about the room,
noting his personal items as well as his fathers strewn
about.
"Uh, Akane I think you'd better look around
again," he said.
She did, letting out another shriek.
The door suddenly slid open, Ryoga's head peering
around the corner.
"Yo, Ranma. You guys finally awake, eh," he said
sliding the door all the way back.
There were no signs of anger in Ryoga's eyes,
Ranma turning his head to one side wondering what he
was about to do. Ryoga sat down at the threshold.
"So, learn anything?" he asked.
"How dare you, Ryoga Hibiki!" exclaimed Akane,
pulling the blanked up closer around her neck.
"What. How dare I do what?"
"Think Akane and I are having going ons in here,"
replied Ranma. "Don't look at me, I'm not even close."
A pillow hit him on the head. Ryoga burst out
laughing.
"I'm talking about all of the studying you two
have been doing these past few days," he finally
managed to say.
Ranma and Akane smirked at him. He pointed to a
pile of books and paper behind them. They sat
surprised, then grinned sheepishly at each other.
"Whoa, for a moment there my head was just
floundering around in gutter," said Ranma.
"Gee I . . . gosh I can't believe I thought that,"
Akane said. She hid her face behind her hands,
blushing like a young school girl.
"Nah, that will come in due time," joked Ryoga.
That made Akane sit up straight again, death in
her eyes.
"Temper, temper," said Ranma.
Nabiki appeared in the hall, counting a thick pile
of money in her hands. Noticing that Ranma's door was
open, she stopped.
"So the Dynamic Duo finally arise," she said
cheerfully. "For a moment I thought you guys were
dead."
"You wish, so you can rent out my room to some
ronin college student," said Akane.
Nabiki let out a hum, thinking. "That's not a bad
thought. Why didn't I think of that?"
The trio on the floor hung their heads.
Nabiki just shrugged. "Well I'm off to make
investments. Talk to you guys later."
"Hey Nabiki," Ranma suddenly called.
"What?"
"How long were we out?"
She shrugged. "I don't know. Personally, I've
lost track of time myself. Feels like I've lost a few
days. Chow."
Ranma rested his head on his fist deep in thought.
"You know, I feel the same way," he said.
"Yeah. Like we've been asleep for over a day,"
added Ryoga.
"That's impossible, Ryoga," said Akane. "Somebody
would have checked on us for sure."
"Like Ukyo, or Shampoo," Ranma pointed out.
"Well that's how I'm feeling," he replied. "I
just know I've lost time somewhere, but I can't place
it."
"Going from physically lost to losing time.
That's bad Ryoga, a good sign of senility," Ranma said.
"Hey I'm not old!" shouted Ryoga. "At least not
yet."
The edge of a tray thumped against the side of the
doorway, Kasumi Tendo stepping around Ryoga to get
inside.
"I heard you two were awake," she said setting the
tray down between them. "So I brought you something to
eat."
They thanked her, digging into the mixed morsels
of food. Ranma invited her to stay and share their
meal, but she declined.
"I've got to get back to cleaning. Can you
believe I've let dust build up on the furniture? Such
a sloppy mode I've grown into."
Her comment made them pause, exchanging worried
looks. Kasumi left and Ranma sat back.
"Dust? In our home?"
"Not with Kasumi around," said Ryoga.
Akane sat wondering about what they said. She set
the food in her hands down and got up. "No sense in
worrying about it now, fellas," she said heading for
the door. "I'm going to clean up."
"But Akane, this is something straight out of the
X-Files. Who know what happened to us!" said Ranma.
She stopped, looking back over her shoulder.
"Then maybe we should try and forget about it. It
might be for our own good."
A strange smile creased her lips and she walked
off down the hall. Ranma furrowed his brows wondering
what she meant by that. He looked at Ryoga, but his
friend just shrugged.
"Don't ask me," he said.

* * * * *

Dusk was beginning to settle over Norita airport,
the whine of a private jet's engines whistling across
the isolated tarmac. Jay and Elle stood at the foot of
the steps saying their last good-byes to T and a
heavily disguised Ringo.
"You guys take care now, y'hear?" Jay said over
the background din.
"We will Jay," replied T shaking his hand. "I
can't thank you enough for the help you provided us to
bring Krin in."
"Yeah, well man if you guys need anymore support,
you can call us. We'll be back in a flash just like
Ghostbusters."
Ringo chuckled, muttering something up to T. He
laughed, patting him confidently on the back.
"What'd he say?" asked Jay.
"He said he's going to miss you and your humor.
Not everyday he gets a good laugh."
"Yeah well--. Okay that's one on you, man."
Ringo laughed harder; Jay giving him the eye as he
headed up the steps.
Elle walked up giving T a firm hug. "Stay in
touch, T," she said.
"I will. You just keep him out of trouble."
"It's a twenty-four and seven job."
She leaned over and kissed Ringo on the forehead.
"Behave."
[Fllyollik?] replied Ringo.
Elle wave, climbing up the steps. Once she was
safely inside, the automated aircraft retracted the
stairs, sealing the cabin shut. Jay stretched in his
seat, ready for some much needed rest.
"Man, I can't wait to put down a few dogs in my
stomach," he said. "Give me some steak and potatoes
any day."
Elle laughed. "Jay, you are such a Lilieekiou,"
she said.
Immediately, Jay sat up. "That's what I forgot!'
he exclaimed.
"What. What did you forget?"
"To find out what that Lillywhatever means!"
She stared at him. "You're serious?"
"You bet. If Big Zee is using it, I definitely
want to know what it means so I can make the proper
level of attitude adjustment."
Elle broke out laughing again, sitting back in her
chair. "Jay, Jay it's nothing really."
Jay shook his head. "Uhuhn, I'm not swallowing
that."
"What does it matter? We're leaving and I'd bet
Zed has probably forgotten it by now. So relax."
The plane started moving, Jay realizing it was to
late anyway to do much. He sat back, stretching out
again.
"Yeah, you're right. Probably just another way of
saying `incredible brother'."
Elle chuckled and closed her eyes. They were
silent for a moment, then Elle tipped her head towards
him.
"Clown," she said.
Jay let out a low grunt. It suddenly dawned on
him what she meant and he sat upright.
"Clown! . . . CLOWN!" he shouted totally
perplexed.
"Uh Huh."
In a flash, Jay undid the seatbelts. He ran over
to the cabin door and peered out the window at T and
Ringo.
"OH no, OH HELL NO!" he shouted thrusting an angry
finger at them. "Yo man, stop this plane! I got to
get out and dust me some ass!"
T and Ringo watch Jay raving through the window at
them. They smiled and started to wave.
"I'm gonna get you, T! Soon as this plane hits
the ground I'm on the next flight back. You best go
and hide real good, I mean really, REALLY good!"
"Jay, will you stop it and get back into your
seat," Elle called to him between her laughs.
Jay moved down the windows still ranting and
raving as the jet started pulling away. T frowned,
arching a brow.
"You don't think she told him, do you?" he said to
Ringo.
[Gipigoot,] answered Ringo with a nod.
"Hmm, oh well."
He shrugged, smiling and waving again as the jet
streaked down the runway and up into the evening sky.








FIN