Author's Notes û
More ideas out of my head. Let me know what you think.
No, I do not own Ranma ¢ or any of Rumiko Takahashi's works. I also don't own anything done by Ken Akamatsu. I can only aspire to be as successful as either of them, though given how strict publishing laws are in the US I seriously doubt that I can become that successful through this medium of Fanfiction.
# # # # #
The usually busy Cat CafÚ was unusually quiet today. A somber and sober atmosphere filled the air, making it all the more awkward for the handful of guests that entered.
"So, you all came," the owner of the cafÚ stated as she gazed at the quintet of guests.
"Yeah," the raven haired boy replied.
"Have a seat, son-in-law."
The air was thick with tension as the five seated themselves across from the ancient Amazon despite the barb.
"Why'd you call me out here?" the pigtailed martial artist asked as he eyed the matriarch.
Wrinkled eyes narrowed as they focused on the young man. "I know that your fool of a father promised his fool of a friend that you would marry one of his daughters to unite your schools."
Soun Tendo and Genma Saotome nodded.
"But our laws demand that you marry Shampoo," the crone added. "You defeated her in combat, and it is her responsibility to bring you back to our tribe as her husband."
"If it's her responsibility than why are you here?" the youngest Tendo exclaimed.
Cologne's piercing eyes locked with the fiery Tendo's, prompting Ranma to put his hand and arm before Akane. The gesture wasn't lost to anyone.
"Though she maybe the most talented Amazon of her generation, she has a long ways to go before I can accept her as my heir," the master martial artist stated. "But if she were to have your child, that child could well be the greatest warrior my people has seen in their history.
"Your rival, Ryoga, has mastered the Breaking Point, and did so without scarring himself, a feat that only I have done. Shampoo is not yet at the point where she is ready to undergo that training even, and she's a champion."
"So why not have Ryoga marry into your tribe?" Genma suggested.
"Because as good as he is, none of our warriors has lost to him," Cologne stated. "If he were to fight one I am certain he'd win, and thus have an Amazon warrior hound him as Shampoo has hounded you. But that is neither here nor there. We're here to discuss you, son-in-law.
"Shampoo and I did what was necessary to prevent you from marrying her, but if you truly persist in trying to marry her, we will simply have to step up our attempts to take you back with us and remove all obstacles that would dare to bar our path."
It was Ranma's turn to glare at the ancient master. "So you'd kill her," he stated.
"You can't imagine what we'd do to her and her family," Cologne stated. "Do you seriously think that you can defeat me child?"
"Yes," Ranma replied. "I used to think that you'd gone easy on me back when we fought over the Phoenix Pill, but then I realized, despite all your control and all the techniques you knew, you couldn't keep fighting on that level for much longer without serious risks to yourself. That's when you started pushing for a different approach to getting me to come back with you to China."
Cologne scowled. The boy really was much more observant that she or anyone gave him credit for. "We'll have you or no one will have you."
The tension in the air increased, nearly suffocating the others as the two martial artists glared at each other.
"I guess this meeting's over," Ranma stated.
Behind him the others stood. Slowly they made their way out of the cafÚ.
"You've been warned," Cologne exclaimed. "Whatever happens is on your head."
# # # # #
Mousse was not happy. Though he knew that Cologne and Shampoo wanted Ranma to come back to China with them, the myopic martial artists knew that it would never happen. Having fought Ranma the most of the Amazons, the near-sighted master of hidden weapons knew that the proud fighter would never subjugate himself to either Cologne or Shampoo. Sure, they could hate him and even cry, but there was only so much that Ranma was willing to put up with. And this, this was definitely going too far. It wasn't a case of the straw that broke the camel's back, this wasn't even a declaration of war û it was a fucking nuke.
But trapped as he was in hid cursed form, there was little that he could do to warn Saotome and the Tendos.
Not only had the old ghoul taken each of her targets into account, she'd plotted and planned everything perfectly.
Well, not perfectly.
As much as he disliked Ranma, Mousse would never wish that fate on his rival. But as good as he was, he knew he didn't have a chance against Cologne. Ranma might, but he was too kind hearted to do what was needed. No, there was only one person left who could stand up to Cologne.
# # # # #
Total devastation greeted the Saotomes and the two Tendos as they returned to the Tendo household. It really wasn't a surprise considering that the dojo and house had been damaged during the failed wedding. Still, the sight was disheartening.
"Why don't we eat out?" Ranma suggested as his stomach began to growl. With even the kitchen in disarray, the pigtailed martial artist doubted that even Kasumi and his mom could serve them a nice meal. Then again, it was kind of hard to do given all the repair men stomping around the house.
"That's actually a good idea," Nabiki chimed in as she came down the stairs. "There's this new sushi shop that just opened up and they were handing out some coupons today."
Feeling his empty stomach turning, Ranma simply shrugged as the rest of the household voiced their opinions.
"Hey, with the price of all the repairs we need to save some money," Nabiki pointed out. "I'm sure Ranma can get some free food around town, but the rest of us aren't as fortunate."
Though the others (Genma and Soun) groused, none dared to refute Nabiki's argument.
The tiny corner restaurant was virtually empty save for the lone chef behind the bar.
"Ah, customers," the thin man smiled. "Please, have a seat at the bar."
Eight seats lined one side of the bar with three more along the end of the bar. Taking seven of the eight seats the Saotomes and Tendos eyed the chilled fish.
"You're my first customers," the chef and owner stated as he pulled out his knife.
"Why am I not surprised?" Nabiki mumbled as she eyed the dingy shop. Still, the bar and the seats at the bar appeared to be clean and up to par.
Before anyone even looked at the menu the slightly nervous chef handed them a large plate ten slices of sushi and ten slices of sashimi. "Please, this is on the house," the man insisted. "To celebrate my first customers."
Never one to turn down free food, Genma and Soun quickly snapped their chopsticks. Grabbing some wasabi, they poured soy sauce over it and blended the two ingredients in their own tiny dishes.
Knowing her husband and having seen the chaos that usually erupted over any meal, Nodoka quickly set a slice of sashimi and sushi on everyone's plate, leaving the extra slices and the ones for Genma and Soun on the original plate.
"What kind of fish is this?" Kasumi asked as she eyed the pinkish flesh.
"Why not try it and guess?" Soun teased as he dipped a slice in his brownish soy sauce. Setting it back on the white radish, he threw it into his mouth.
Beside him Genma did the same, though he'd managed to down two slices already.
In a matter of moments all twenty slices had been devoured.
"Hmmm, that's pretty tasty," Ranma remarked as he eyed the menu. Having had two slices (one sashimi and one sushi) he was curious as to what type of fish it was. "Can I get more of that?"
"Sure," the chef replied. "I just need to get more from the refrigerator."
"Hey, get some more red snapper and some squid too," Genma added as eyed the selection of fish behind the glass. "And some hot sake."
The man bowed before quickly retreating to the back.
"Ohhhà" Akane groaned.
"This is why I don't eat anything raw," Nabiki groaned as she clutched her stomach.
Ranma glanced at the others. Clearly something was wrong.
Slamming her hand to the counter, Kasumi dug her nails into the hardwood, scratching the sealed and finished dark wood.
"IT HURTS!" Nabiki growled as she ripped her blouse off, her clawed hands tearing into her flesh.
"NOO!" Soun cried out as he emptied the contents of his stomach.
Genma slammed his head against the glass, shattering it and opening up a long cut on his forehead. A greenish-brown tinge replaced his normally pale complexion. Strong, nimble fingers elongated even as the nails on his fingers grew into menacing claws. New muscles grew, expanding the skin. Clothes strained to contain the new growth before slowly being torn apart.
"So, you didn't have any of the sushi," Cologne sneered as she appeared at the back door. "That's good."
"You!" Ranma roared as he spotted the diminutive figure. "What did you do to them?"
"I told you I'd remove all obstacles," she stated. "I tried to warn you, but you were too pig-headed to listen. But it's not too late for you. You can still come back to the village with us."
For the first time in his short life, rage and hate filled his eyes.
"I'll take that as a no," the ancient Amazon shrugged. "Pity, you are the greatest martial artist in over a hundred years. Oh well, I guess Shampoo will just have to settle for Ryoga."
Before Ranma could launch himself at the hated Amazon, he felt powerful claws rake his back. Rolling with the blow, he turned to face his attacker. Looking at the monsters before him he couldn't tell who had been whom as none of them appeared to have anything that identified them with who they had been. Each had sickly greenish-brown skin and the bulbous amphibian-like eyes, though it was the closest one who had blood dripping from his long, vicious claws.
"Mom?" he forced out. She had been the one sitting the closest to him.
The creature roared as it raised its powerful hand. Years of ingrained training propelled Ranma away from the towering creature's slow but vicious attack.
His vision blurred even as he fought through the pain. "I'm sorry," he mumbled as he picked up his mother's sword. "I couldn't protect any of youà I couldn't even save you."
Unsheathing the blade, he rushed at the closest of the creatures. Though they could easily touch the high ceiling, they lacked speed or coordination. Leaping over an attack, he swiftly beheaded the creature.
Before he even landed a second creature tackled him, intercepting him in mid air. Shark-like teeth sunk into his shoulder as Ranma and his newest attacker hit the floor. Rolling around, they jockeyed for position even as the deadly teeth ripped into his muscles and scrapped against his bones.
Dropping the sword, he pulled his hand back. "Forgive me," he muttered as he struck the creature with the Gaito Retsugan Dan. Despite the creature's thick skin and the fact that he had not mastered the attack, his attack pierced the thick hide. Slipping his hand through the tough muscle and strong bones, he gripped the creature's heart, squashing with great regret.
The creature's muffled roar of anguish caused its teeth to rip into his shoulder even more despite the fact that the creature was in its death throes.
Before he could even push himself off of the creature another monster kicked him, hard. The resulting blow ripped the tattered remains of his shoulder off, leaving it in the second creature's mouth and sent Ranma crashing through the sushi bar.
Shaking off the effects of the blow, he scrambled to his feet. Grabbing hold of the sushi chef's knife, he cut off the hand of the closest creature. Leaping over the bar he slammed the knife into the creature's neck. Clearly the short blade had not been intended to cut through the bones of anything but fish as the blade stopped well short of beheading the monster.
Enraged, the creature swung its arm at Ranma, bashing him away even as it left the blade in its thick neck.
Rolling on the ground, Ranma managed to spot his mother's sword. Kicking off of the wall, he propelled himself towards the sword. With his remaining hand he gripped the hilt before spinning around, cutting off the leg of the closest creature. Springing to his feet he stabbed the creature through the heart before eviscerating it.
Dashing towards the next creature, he ducked under the creature's swipe. Rolling, he hamstrung the creature, bringing it down to his height. A quick slash decapitated the creature, leaving him with only two more creatures to contend with.
Parrying a wild swipe, he again cut the arm off of his opponent. Swiftly following through, his blade cut through the skin of the creature's stomach, spilling its guts over the floor. Waiting for the creature to fall to the ground, Ranma stabbed it through the heart. Kicking the creature off of the sword, he turned to face the last of the creatures.
Fighting through the pain, he charged the last creature. Ducking under the swipe, he cut the creature in two.
"I'm sorry," he said as he turned to face the struggling creature. "I'm so sorry. It'll all be over soon."
Steeling himself, he prepared to deliver the killing blow.
"AARH!" one of the other creatures roared as it got to its feet.
The hole in its chest was still bloody but clearly healing.
"Damn," Ranma cursed.
Though off balance, the creature rumbled forward as it charged at Ranma.
Reaching deep, the pigtailed martial artist met the creature's charge. Kicking it in the head, he skillfully followed up with a fierce one handed slash that separated the head in a shower of brownish blood.
Returning his attention to the one armed creature he scowled. 'It's regenerating,' he concluded as he watched the muscles in the arm spasm even as the fingers protruded from the stump. Even the one he'd cut in two was pulling itself together, the long horizontal cut mending before his eyes.
Clearly cutting them in two didn't help, unless one of those parts was the head itself.
Gritting his teeth, Ranma surveyed the battlefield. The other creatures wouldn't let him get to the one still mending on the floor, and the one he'd just hamstrung was already back on its feet.
This wasn't looking good.
# # # # #
The lingering light of day shone brightly in the office window, illuminating the room as two men sat across from each other.
"That's great news," the older man stated. "Truly an occasion worth celebrating."
One, the older of the two, stroked his long, white beard while the younger of the two poured some liquor for the both of them.
"Yes, it is," the younger man replied as he handed the first cup to the older man.
"To Konoka," the wrinkled man toasted.
"To Konoka," the taller man replied as he raised his cup.
The sound of several hurried steps approaching the large double doors interrupted the toast, announcing the sudden presence of the older man's assistant.
"Sir," the busty young blond exclaimed. "I'm sorry to bother you at such a time," she added, "but an emergency has come up."
Both men turned to face the blond, still clutching their drinks as they did so.
"A monster has been spotted in Nerima," the woman explained.
"Nerima?" the younger man scoffed. "There are always monsters showing up there. With the number of world class martial artists they have there, I'm surprised that they'd even ask for assistance."
The old man quickly knocked back his drink. "Be that as it may, we may have to investigate it. If there is a monster on the loose we should be ready to assist as needed."
The taller man shrugged as he knocked back his drink in one fell swoop. "I guess you are closer, but my escort and I are faster. If you want we can check up on things since most of your staff are probably off for the summer holidays."
"How kind," the Dean smiled, "but just in case, why don't we have Takamichi accompany you? It's been a while since the two of you have worked together, but I'm sure he's the best one for the job.
"Now, let us see what kind of monsters we're dealing with."
Motioning towards his wall, he summoned his scrying pool. "Now, let us see what transpires in Nerima."
With a wave of his hand the clear waters in the marble stand slowly shifted, taking on the image of a city as though being viewed from the sky. Slowly the image shifted as the buildings grew bigger and less distant. Soon, the image of a large creature with blotchy green and brown skin running through the street came into focus.
"A Lost Soul."
"You know of these creatures?" the blond asked.
The younger man nodded. "Those creatures are very hard to kill."
"How hard?" the shriveled old man asked.
"They're immortal," he added as he reached for his sword. "Cut off their head, destroy their brain, or burn them completely. Everything else they'll heal from eventually."
The Dean nodded grimly. "Shizuna, call Takahata immediately."
# # # # #
Nerima was no stranger to chaos and fighting. Many world class martial artists called the district home, and given the temperament of the young fighters, fights were an everyday occurrence. Unfortunately nothing that had happened before prepared the residents for what they experienced today.
"Foul creature, I, the Blue Thunder of Furinkan, shall smite you," the kendoka declared as the fierce monster advanced.
Drawing his feared weapon, he lashed out. Though his weapon fell well short of his opponent, the force of his strikes hit home as the pressure of the displaced air collided with the rampaging monster.
"So," Kuno exclaimed as he assessed his work, "you can take a beating û well none deliver divine punishment like the Blue Thunder can!"
Fierce thrusts pierced the monster's already flayed skin as blood flowed freely. A final thrust pierced the creature's heart, prompting the creature to shudder then slump to its knees.
"Hahaha!" Satisfied with vanquishing the foul creature, Kuno extracted his weapon from the creature's heart. "Such is the might of the Blue Thunder of Furinka-ahh!"
The arrogant kendoka screamed in pain as the creature sunk its teeth into his leg. Stabbing pain ran up his other leg as the creature dug its claws into his other calf.
Unable to use his legs, the kendoka resorted to bashing the creature over the head and shoulders. "Cursed beast û ah! You shall not de-ahh defeat the Blue Thunder!"
Using its size to its advantage, the creature pulled him down to the ground despite the pummeling that it was receiving.
"Beating them doesn't help," someone grumbled.
Kuno looked up momentarily before composing himself again. "Saotome," he growled as he stabbed the creature in the eye.
Limping over, Ranma stabbed the creature in the neck, making sure to not injure his former rival. With a flick of his wrist, he cut through the creature's brain. "Take the head off," he advised as he limped away.
# # # # #
Nerima was in chaos. In the handful of months that she'd been there the ancient Amazon had never seen things get to this point. As a fighter herself, Cologne knew that the 'chaos' generated by their fights was actually pretty structured as the fighters sought high ground or other ground that favored their strengths.
But watching the chaos unfold as civilians rushed through the streets was something altogether different. This was true chaos.
Still, the old crone didn't care. True, some of them had been good and loyal customers, but only because they lacked the culinary skills of centuries that she had.
"You know," a sagely voice called out, "I can't let you get away with this."
"Why Happi?" the Amazon asked as she turned to face her long time rival. "It's not as though you cared for any of them."
"I'll miss the many silky darlings," the tiny man stated, "but you've cost me two of my favorite students. As their master I have to avenge them."
"You still have Ranma," Cologne taunted.
"No, even if he survives this, and I know he will, he's not one of mine," Happosai replied. "He'll never walk down the path that I took.
"Oh, and speaking of paths, don't bother packing, you're not going to be going anywhere."
Scowling at her one-time suitor, she considered her options.
Launching herself at her rival she jabbed at him with her cane. Just as expected he parried with his pipe, redirecting the force of her attack as he attempted to send her flying into the ceiling. For anyone else the short trip to the low ceiling might have been disastrous, but to a master martial artist of her caliber she could easily turn things around.
Flipping around in the air, she planted her feet on the ceiling as she scanned the area for the arrogant martial artist. Creating several images of herself she pushed off of the ceiling. Several images moved to engage Happosai, distracting him so that she could find an opening. With a casual swipe he dispelled three of the images.
"Is that all you got?" he taunted. "You're a century too late to beat me with that trick."
Spotting an opening, the Amazon dashed in, lashing out with her cane. The feel of cloth and padding connecting with the wooden shaft nearly brought a grin to her face but the lack of any further substance told her that her opponent had avoided taking the hit.
Swinging around his pipe, the old pervert slammed in into her cane, shattering it with casual ease. With a flick of the wrist he threw a handful of crushed pepper at her. Rather than close her eyes and leave herself exposed to whatever else Happosai had in store for her, the weathered Amazon endured the hot peppers. Though they irritated her she knew that she could overcome the slight burning sensation in her eyes.
The founder of the Musabetsu Kakut? Ry? simply smiled as he pulled out a lit match. Spitting out a mouthful of sake into the flame, he lit her up.
The flames weren't strong enough to do any real harm, but the bright light combined with the pepper dust to her eyes left the Amazon momentarily blind. Landing on her feet she felt her opponent rush her, seeking to take advantage of her momentary handicap. A desperate parry allowed her to grab onto the sleeve of his robe. A simple twist and turn allowed her to throw him into a pile of pots and pans.
As the owner and master of the Cat CafÚ, she knew just where she was and how far she was from the sink. If she wanted to win she'd have to wash her eyes out so that she'd at least have some vision. Leaping towards the sink, she threw the remains of her cane at the faucet. The sound of running water greeted her ears as she rushed to clean her eyes out. Jumping into the sink, she reached for her eyes even as the water cascaded over her.
Something was wrong. She couldn't move her hands. She didn't have arms much less hands. Falling into the bottom of the sink she realized that she didn't have legs either.
"Well, well, well," her rival's voice called out, "that went better than I expected. It's sad that I had to actually use this against you, but there's a city that needs its martial artists."
Cologne hissed.
"Pool of drowned viper," the tiny man said as he stood atop the basin, cautiously turning off the water. "How fitting really. Crush the head of the snake and the body is useless. Just like how the Amazons are going to be once you're gone."
"Just kill her now," another voice stated. "We shouldn't give her any time to adapt to her new body."
"You're right lad," the old master replied. Pulling out his flask, he emptied it into the deep sink, dousing the snake with the alcoholic liquid. "You've set all the bombs?"
"Everything's set," Mousse proclaimed. "With Cologne dead and Shampoo returning to the village in disgrace, I can marry her without anyone interfering."
"She'll hate you, you know," the old man stated as he poured cooking oil into the sink.
Mousse shrugged. "She'll learn to be happy eventually."
"Good bye Cologne."
Coiling up, the vengeful Amazon turned deadly viper launched herself at the arrogant old man. Only the sudden intervention of a deadly blade prevented her from sinking her poison fangs into the little man.
"I told you she'd get used to her body," the younger martial artist chided.
"Guess you're right," Happosai lamented. "You better hope Shampoo doesn't turn out like her great-grandmother."
# # # # #
A/N
So, what do you think?
This'll take place just after Asuna is enrolled into Mahora, so no Negi and no 3-A. Takahata and Eishun have just left Nagi and adapted to their lives in Japan.
Dreamingfox
More ideas out of my head. Let me know what you think.
No, I do not own Ranma ¢ or any of Rumiko Takahashi's works. I also don't own anything done by Ken Akamatsu. I can only aspire to be as successful as either of them, though given how strict publishing laws are in the US I seriously doubt that I can become that successful through this medium of Fanfiction.
# # # # #
The usually busy Cat CafÚ was unusually quiet today. A somber and sober atmosphere filled the air, making it all the more awkward for the handful of guests that entered.
"So, you all came," the owner of the cafÚ stated as she gazed at the quintet of guests.
"Yeah," the raven haired boy replied.
"Have a seat, son-in-law."
The air was thick with tension as the five seated themselves across from the ancient Amazon despite the barb.
"Why'd you call me out here?" the pigtailed martial artist asked as he eyed the matriarch.
Wrinkled eyes narrowed as they focused on the young man. "I know that your fool of a father promised his fool of a friend that you would marry one of his daughters to unite your schools."
Soun Tendo and Genma Saotome nodded.
"But our laws demand that you marry Shampoo," the crone added. "You defeated her in combat, and it is her responsibility to bring you back to our tribe as her husband."
"If it's her responsibility than why are you here?" the youngest Tendo exclaimed.
Cologne's piercing eyes locked with the fiery Tendo's, prompting Ranma to put his hand and arm before Akane. The gesture wasn't lost to anyone.
"Though she maybe the most talented Amazon of her generation, she has a long ways to go before I can accept her as my heir," the master martial artist stated. "But if she were to have your child, that child could well be the greatest warrior my people has seen in their history.
"Your rival, Ryoga, has mastered the Breaking Point, and did so without scarring himself, a feat that only I have done. Shampoo is not yet at the point where she is ready to undergo that training even, and she's a champion."
"So why not have Ryoga marry into your tribe?" Genma suggested.
"Because as good as he is, none of our warriors has lost to him," Cologne stated. "If he were to fight one I am certain he'd win, and thus have an Amazon warrior hound him as Shampoo has hounded you. But that is neither here nor there. We're here to discuss you, son-in-law.
"Shampoo and I did what was necessary to prevent you from marrying her, but if you truly persist in trying to marry her, we will simply have to step up our attempts to take you back with us and remove all obstacles that would dare to bar our path."
It was Ranma's turn to glare at the ancient master. "So you'd kill her," he stated.
"You can't imagine what we'd do to her and her family," Cologne stated. "Do you seriously think that you can defeat me child?"
"Yes," Ranma replied. "I used to think that you'd gone easy on me back when we fought over the Phoenix Pill, but then I realized, despite all your control and all the techniques you knew, you couldn't keep fighting on that level for much longer without serious risks to yourself. That's when you started pushing for a different approach to getting me to come back with you to China."
Cologne scowled. The boy really was much more observant that she or anyone gave him credit for. "We'll have you or no one will have you."
The tension in the air increased, nearly suffocating the others as the two martial artists glared at each other.
"I guess this meeting's over," Ranma stated.
Behind him the others stood. Slowly they made their way out of the cafÚ.
"You've been warned," Cologne exclaimed. "Whatever happens is on your head."
# # # # #
Mousse was not happy. Though he knew that Cologne and Shampoo wanted Ranma to come back to China with them, the myopic martial artists knew that it would never happen. Having fought Ranma the most of the Amazons, the near-sighted master of hidden weapons knew that the proud fighter would never subjugate himself to either Cologne or Shampoo. Sure, they could hate him and even cry, but there was only so much that Ranma was willing to put up with. And this, this was definitely going too far. It wasn't a case of the straw that broke the camel's back, this wasn't even a declaration of war û it was a fucking nuke.
But trapped as he was in hid cursed form, there was little that he could do to warn Saotome and the Tendos.
Not only had the old ghoul taken each of her targets into account, she'd plotted and planned everything perfectly.
Well, not perfectly.
As much as he disliked Ranma, Mousse would never wish that fate on his rival. But as good as he was, he knew he didn't have a chance against Cologne. Ranma might, but he was too kind hearted to do what was needed. No, there was only one person left who could stand up to Cologne.
# # # # #
Total devastation greeted the Saotomes and the two Tendos as they returned to the Tendo household. It really wasn't a surprise considering that the dojo and house had been damaged during the failed wedding. Still, the sight was disheartening.
"Why don't we eat out?" Ranma suggested as his stomach began to growl. With even the kitchen in disarray, the pigtailed martial artist doubted that even Kasumi and his mom could serve them a nice meal. Then again, it was kind of hard to do given all the repair men stomping around the house.
"That's actually a good idea," Nabiki chimed in as she came down the stairs. "There's this new sushi shop that just opened up and they were handing out some coupons today."
Feeling his empty stomach turning, Ranma simply shrugged as the rest of the household voiced their opinions.
"Hey, with the price of all the repairs we need to save some money," Nabiki pointed out. "I'm sure Ranma can get some free food around town, but the rest of us aren't as fortunate."
Though the others (Genma and Soun) groused, none dared to refute Nabiki's argument.
The tiny corner restaurant was virtually empty save for the lone chef behind the bar.
"Ah, customers," the thin man smiled. "Please, have a seat at the bar."
Eight seats lined one side of the bar with three more along the end of the bar. Taking seven of the eight seats the Saotomes and Tendos eyed the chilled fish.
"You're my first customers," the chef and owner stated as he pulled out his knife.
"Why am I not surprised?" Nabiki mumbled as she eyed the dingy shop. Still, the bar and the seats at the bar appeared to be clean and up to par.
Before anyone even looked at the menu the slightly nervous chef handed them a large plate ten slices of sushi and ten slices of sashimi. "Please, this is on the house," the man insisted. "To celebrate my first customers."
Never one to turn down free food, Genma and Soun quickly snapped their chopsticks. Grabbing some wasabi, they poured soy sauce over it and blended the two ingredients in their own tiny dishes.
Knowing her husband and having seen the chaos that usually erupted over any meal, Nodoka quickly set a slice of sashimi and sushi on everyone's plate, leaving the extra slices and the ones for Genma and Soun on the original plate.
"What kind of fish is this?" Kasumi asked as she eyed the pinkish flesh.
"Why not try it and guess?" Soun teased as he dipped a slice in his brownish soy sauce. Setting it back on the white radish, he threw it into his mouth.
Beside him Genma did the same, though he'd managed to down two slices already.
In a matter of moments all twenty slices had been devoured.
"Hmmm, that's pretty tasty," Ranma remarked as he eyed the menu. Having had two slices (one sashimi and one sushi) he was curious as to what type of fish it was. "Can I get more of that?"
"Sure," the chef replied. "I just need to get more from the refrigerator."
"Hey, get some more red snapper and some squid too," Genma added as eyed the selection of fish behind the glass. "And some hot sake."
The man bowed before quickly retreating to the back.
"Ohhhà" Akane groaned.
"This is why I don't eat anything raw," Nabiki groaned as she clutched her stomach.
Ranma glanced at the others. Clearly something was wrong.
Slamming her hand to the counter, Kasumi dug her nails into the hardwood, scratching the sealed and finished dark wood.
"IT HURTS!" Nabiki growled as she ripped her blouse off, her clawed hands tearing into her flesh.
"NOO!" Soun cried out as he emptied the contents of his stomach.
Genma slammed his head against the glass, shattering it and opening up a long cut on his forehead. A greenish-brown tinge replaced his normally pale complexion. Strong, nimble fingers elongated even as the nails on his fingers grew into menacing claws. New muscles grew, expanding the skin. Clothes strained to contain the new growth before slowly being torn apart.
"So, you didn't have any of the sushi," Cologne sneered as she appeared at the back door. "That's good."
"You!" Ranma roared as he spotted the diminutive figure. "What did you do to them?"
"I told you I'd remove all obstacles," she stated. "I tried to warn you, but you were too pig-headed to listen. But it's not too late for you. You can still come back to the village with us."
For the first time in his short life, rage and hate filled his eyes.
"I'll take that as a no," the ancient Amazon shrugged. "Pity, you are the greatest martial artist in over a hundred years. Oh well, I guess Shampoo will just have to settle for Ryoga."
Before Ranma could launch himself at the hated Amazon, he felt powerful claws rake his back. Rolling with the blow, he turned to face his attacker. Looking at the monsters before him he couldn't tell who had been whom as none of them appeared to have anything that identified them with who they had been. Each had sickly greenish-brown skin and the bulbous amphibian-like eyes, though it was the closest one who had blood dripping from his long, vicious claws.
"Mom?" he forced out. She had been the one sitting the closest to him.
The creature roared as it raised its powerful hand. Years of ingrained training propelled Ranma away from the towering creature's slow but vicious attack.
His vision blurred even as he fought through the pain. "I'm sorry," he mumbled as he picked up his mother's sword. "I couldn't protect any of youà I couldn't even save you."
Unsheathing the blade, he rushed at the closest of the creatures. Though they could easily touch the high ceiling, they lacked speed or coordination. Leaping over an attack, he swiftly beheaded the creature.
Before he even landed a second creature tackled him, intercepting him in mid air. Shark-like teeth sunk into his shoulder as Ranma and his newest attacker hit the floor. Rolling around, they jockeyed for position even as the deadly teeth ripped into his muscles and scrapped against his bones.
Dropping the sword, he pulled his hand back. "Forgive me," he muttered as he struck the creature with the Gaito Retsugan Dan. Despite the creature's thick skin and the fact that he had not mastered the attack, his attack pierced the thick hide. Slipping his hand through the tough muscle and strong bones, he gripped the creature's heart, squashing with great regret.
The creature's muffled roar of anguish caused its teeth to rip into his shoulder even more despite the fact that the creature was in its death throes.
Before he could even push himself off of the creature another monster kicked him, hard. The resulting blow ripped the tattered remains of his shoulder off, leaving it in the second creature's mouth and sent Ranma crashing through the sushi bar.
Shaking off the effects of the blow, he scrambled to his feet. Grabbing hold of the sushi chef's knife, he cut off the hand of the closest creature. Leaping over the bar he slammed the knife into the creature's neck. Clearly the short blade had not been intended to cut through the bones of anything but fish as the blade stopped well short of beheading the monster.
Enraged, the creature swung its arm at Ranma, bashing him away even as it left the blade in its thick neck.
Rolling on the ground, Ranma managed to spot his mother's sword. Kicking off of the wall, he propelled himself towards the sword. With his remaining hand he gripped the hilt before spinning around, cutting off the leg of the closest creature. Springing to his feet he stabbed the creature through the heart before eviscerating it.
Dashing towards the next creature, he ducked under the creature's swipe. Rolling, he hamstrung the creature, bringing it down to his height. A quick slash decapitated the creature, leaving him with only two more creatures to contend with.
Parrying a wild swipe, he again cut the arm off of his opponent. Swiftly following through, his blade cut through the skin of the creature's stomach, spilling its guts over the floor. Waiting for the creature to fall to the ground, Ranma stabbed it through the heart. Kicking the creature off of the sword, he turned to face the last of the creatures.
Fighting through the pain, he charged the last creature. Ducking under the swipe, he cut the creature in two.
"I'm sorry," he said as he turned to face the struggling creature. "I'm so sorry. It'll all be over soon."
Steeling himself, he prepared to deliver the killing blow.
"AARH!" one of the other creatures roared as it got to its feet.
The hole in its chest was still bloody but clearly healing.
"Damn," Ranma cursed.
Though off balance, the creature rumbled forward as it charged at Ranma.
Reaching deep, the pigtailed martial artist met the creature's charge. Kicking it in the head, he skillfully followed up with a fierce one handed slash that separated the head in a shower of brownish blood.
Returning his attention to the one armed creature he scowled. 'It's regenerating,' he concluded as he watched the muscles in the arm spasm even as the fingers protruded from the stump. Even the one he'd cut in two was pulling itself together, the long horizontal cut mending before his eyes.
Clearly cutting them in two didn't help, unless one of those parts was the head itself.
Gritting his teeth, Ranma surveyed the battlefield. The other creatures wouldn't let him get to the one still mending on the floor, and the one he'd just hamstrung was already back on its feet.
This wasn't looking good.
# # # # #
The lingering light of day shone brightly in the office window, illuminating the room as two men sat across from each other.
"That's great news," the older man stated. "Truly an occasion worth celebrating."
One, the older of the two, stroked his long, white beard while the younger of the two poured some liquor for the both of them.
"Yes, it is," the younger man replied as he handed the first cup to the older man.
"To Konoka," the wrinkled man toasted.
"To Konoka," the taller man replied as he raised his cup.
The sound of several hurried steps approaching the large double doors interrupted the toast, announcing the sudden presence of the older man's assistant.
"Sir," the busty young blond exclaimed. "I'm sorry to bother you at such a time," she added, "but an emergency has come up."
Both men turned to face the blond, still clutching their drinks as they did so.
"A monster has been spotted in Nerima," the woman explained.
"Nerima?" the younger man scoffed. "There are always monsters showing up there. With the number of world class martial artists they have there, I'm surprised that they'd even ask for assistance."
The old man quickly knocked back his drink. "Be that as it may, we may have to investigate it. If there is a monster on the loose we should be ready to assist as needed."
The taller man shrugged as he knocked back his drink in one fell swoop. "I guess you are closer, but my escort and I are faster. If you want we can check up on things since most of your staff are probably off for the summer holidays."
"How kind," the Dean smiled, "but just in case, why don't we have Takamichi accompany you? It's been a while since the two of you have worked together, but I'm sure he's the best one for the job.
"Now, let us see what kind of monsters we're dealing with."
Motioning towards his wall, he summoned his scrying pool. "Now, let us see what transpires in Nerima."
With a wave of his hand the clear waters in the marble stand slowly shifted, taking on the image of a city as though being viewed from the sky. Slowly the image shifted as the buildings grew bigger and less distant. Soon, the image of a large creature with blotchy green and brown skin running through the street came into focus.
"A Lost Soul."
"You know of these creatures?" the blond asked.
The younger man nodded. "Those creatures are very hard to kill."
"How hard?" the shriveled old man asked.
"They're immortal," he added as he reached for his sword. "Cut off their head, destroy their brain, or burn them completely. Everything else they'll heal from eventually."
The Dean nodded grimly. "Shizuna, call Takahata immediately."
# # # # #
Nerima was no stranger to chaos and fighting. Many world class martial artists called the district home, and given the temperament of the young fighters, fights were an everyday occurrence. Unfortunately nothing that had happened before prepared the residents for what they experienced today.
"Foul creature, I, the Blue Thunder of Furinkan, shall smite you," the kendoka declared as the fierce monster advanced.
Drawing his feared weapon, he lashed out. Though his weapon fell well short of his opponent, the force of his strikes hit home as the pressure of the displaced air collided with the rampaging monster.
"So," Kuno exclaimed as he assessed his work, "you can take a beating û well none deliver divine punishment like the Blue Thunder can!"
Fierce thrusts pierced the monster's already flayed skin as blood flowed freely. A final thrust pierced the creature's heart, prompting the creature to shudder then slump to its knees.
"Hahaha!" Satisfied with vanquishing the foul creature, Kuno extracted his weapon from the creature's heart. "Such is the might of the Blue Thunder of Furinka-ahh!"
The arrogant kendoka screamed in pain as the creature sunk its teeth into his leg. Stabbing pain ran up his other leg as the creature dug its claws into his other calf.
Unable to use his legs, the kendoka resorted to bashing the creature over the head and shoulders. "Cursed beast û ah! You shall not de-ahh defeat the Blue Thunder!"
Using its size to its advantage, the creature pulled him down to the ground despite the pummeling that it was receiving.
"Beating them doesn't help," someone grumbled.
Kuno looked up momentarily before composing himself again. "Saotome," he growled as he stabbed the creature in the eye.
Limping over, Ranma stabbed the creature in the neck, making sure to not injure his former rival. With a flick of his wrist, he cut through the creature's brain. "Take the head off," he advised as he limped away.
# # # # #
Nerima was in chaos. In the handful of months that she'd been there the ancient Amazon had never seen things get to this point. As a fighter herself, Cologne knew that the 'chaos' generated by their fights was actually pretty structured as the fighters sought high ground or other ground that favored their strengths.
But watching the chaos unfold as civilians rushed through the streets was something altogether different. This was true chaos.
Still, the old crone didn't care. True, some of them had been good and loyal customers, but only because they lacked the culinary skills of centuries that she had.
"You know," a sagely voice called out, "I can't let you get away with this."
"Why Happi?" the Amazon asked as she turned to face her long time rival. "It's not as though you cared for any of them."
"I'll miss the many silky darlings," the tiny man stated, "but you've cost me two of my favorite students. As their master I have to avenge them."
"You still have Ranma," Cologne taunted.
"No, even if he survives this, and I know he will, he's not one of mine," Happosai replied. "He'll never walk down the path that I took.
"Oh, and speaking of paths, don't bother packing, you're not going to be going anywhere."
Scowling at her one-time suitor, she considered her options.
Launching herself at her rival she jabbed at him with her cane. Just as expected he parried with his pipe, redirecting the force of her attack as he attempted to send her flying into the ceiling. For anyone else the short trip to the low ceiling might have been disastrous, but to a master martial artist of her caliber she could easily turn things around.
Flipping around in the air, she planted her feet on the ceiling as she scanned the area for the arrogant martial artist. Creating several images of herself she pushed off of the ceiling. Several images moved to engage Happosai, distracting him so that she could find an opening. With a casual swipe he dispelled three of the images.
"Is that all you got?" he taunted. "You're a century too late to beat me with that trick."
Spotting an opening, the Amazon dashed in, lashing out with her cane. The feel of cloth and padding connecting with the wooden shaft nearly brought a grin to her face but the lack of any further substance told her that her opponent had avoided taking the hit.
Swinging around his pipe, the old pervert slammed in into her cane, shattering it with casual ease. With a flick of the wrist he threw a handful of crushed pepper at her. Rather than close her eyes and leave herself exposed to whatever else Happosai had in store for her, the weathered Amazon endured the hot peppers. Though they irritated her she knew that she could overcome the slight burning sensation in her eyes.
The founder of the Musabetsu Kakut? Ry? simply smiled as he pulled out a lit match. Spitting out a mouthful of sake into the flame, he lit her up.
The flames weren't strong enough to do any real harm, but the bright light combined with the pepper dust to her eyes left the Amazon momentarily blind. Landing on her feet she felt her opponent rush her, seeking to take advantage of her momentary handicap. A desperate parry allowed her to grab onto the sleeve of his robe. A simple twist and turn allowed her to throw him into a pile of pots and pans.
As the owner and master of the Cat CafÚ, she knew just where she was and how far she was from the sink. If she wanted to win she'd have to wash her eyes out so that she'd at least have some vision. Leaping towards the sink, she threw the remains of her cane at the faucet. The sound of running water greeted her ears as she rushed to clean her eyes out. Jumping into the sink, she reached for her eyes even as the water cascaded over her.
Something was wrong. She couldn't move her hands. She didn't have arms much less hands. Falling into the bottom of the sink she realized that she didn't have legs either.
"Well, well, well," her rival's voice called out, "that went better than I expected. It's sad that I had to actually use this against you, but there's a city that needs its martial artists."
Cologne hissed.
"Pool of drowned viper," the tiny man said as he stood atop the basin, cautiously turning off the water. "How fitting really. Crush the head of the snake and the body is useless. Just like how the Amazons are going to be once you're gone."
"Just kill her now," another voice stated. "We shouldn't give her any time to adapt to her new body."
"You're right lad," the old master replied. Pulling out his flask, he emptied it into the deep sink, dousing the snake with the alcoholic liquid. "You've set all the bombs?"
"Everything's set," Mousse proclaimed. "With Cologne dead and Shampoo returning to the village in disgrace, I can marry her without anyone interfering."
"She'll hate you, you know," the old man stated as he poured cooking oil into the sink.
Mousse shrugged. "She'll learn to be happy eventually."
"Good bye Cologne."
Coiling up, the vengeful Amazon turned deadly viper launched herself at the arrogant old man. Only the sudden intervention of a deadly blade prevented her from sinking her poison fangs into the little man.
"I told you she'd get used to her body," the younger martial artist chided.
"Guess you're right," Happosai lamented. "You better hope Shampoo doesn't turn out like her great-grandmother."
# # # # #
A/N
So, what do you think?
This'll take place just after Asuna is enrolled into Mahora, so no Negi and no 3-A. Takahata and Eishun have just left Nagi and adapted to their lives in Japan.
Dreamingfox
