Switching Heirs:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Fourteen-

	"It's kind of complicated," remarked Sakura with a mouth full 
of rice. "But basically because of the unusual nature of my Jusenkyo 
curse I have a sort of warning system around cold water that the 
others don't."
	Kodachi considered this thoughtfully from across the cozy 
table the couple shared. They were having lunch in a local restaurant 
while carrying on one of the wandering conversations that had become 
a habit for them. Their relationship had deepened since their first fight 
over the rumors Kodachi had heard about an amnesiac Ukyo wanting 
to resume her romantic relationship with Sakura. A month had passed 
since then and the pair were content in their mutual affection for one 
another.
	"Most likely that is due to the mystical nature of your curse. 
Perhaps the oni who drowned in the spring remained a sentient being 
by some means," Kodachi offered as she tapped her fingers against 
her bowl of noodles. 
	Pointing her chopsticks at Kodachi the street fighter 
exclaimed, "Exactly! When I get splashed with cold water and the oni 
emerges it isn't me anymore. Everyone else still stays themselves 
mentally but not me. It's like I'm trapped inside myself and I can only 
watch as the oni takes control." Snorting Sakura resumed her eating. 
"The one thing I never understood is how could an oni drown?" 
	"Fascinating," breathed Kodachi. "So as we speak you can 
sense the oni trapped inside your mind fighting to break loose. And 
that is how you are able sense the approaching possibility of being 
splashed with cold water. The oni draws you towards it in hopes of 
being released?"
	Sakura nodded. "Yup, and it's a major pain in the ass Dachi. I 
can constantly feel it pulling at me... it's like a war is going on inside me 
for control."
	Shaking her head in amazement Kodachi sighed. "It is of no 
wonder I have yet to see you in your cursed form my darling. I must 
admit when I inquired on the subject of that oddity I did not expect 
such complexities in the tale." 
	Smiling softly Sakura proffered her chopsticks holding rice 
towards Kodachi. "Yeah, well. Leave it to me to get the freakiest 
curse from hundreds of options." Sakura watched as Kodachi took 
the offered food into her mouth in an sensuous action. "Sometimes I 
actually envy Ryochan for changing into a pig." 
	Chuckling lowly Kodachi murmured, "My dearest love as a 
porcine. That is indeed a priceless image." Smiling Kodachi tilted her 
dark head to one side. "Which reminds me... how do you suppose 
Akane is faring in her attempt at teaching Ryoga how to skate?"
	"Not good," replied Sakura immediately while rising to her 
feet. Shining green eyes were locked on something beyond her 
companion. 
	Sensing this Kodachi shifted in her seat to turn and take in the 
figure of Akane as she rushed into the restaurant. Spotting her two 
friends Akane pushed hurriedly through the maze of tables. Biting her 
lip light brown eyes watered as Akane wailed, "Ryochan's been 
kidnapped!" 
	"Kidnapped?" questioned Sakura shocked.
	Now standing Kodachi gently pulled a chair to their table and 
helped Akane sit. "Whatever could have occurred to cause a 
kidnapping?" the gymnast inquired softly.
	"We got separated at the skating rink so I started to look for 
him. Then I hear a group of people talking about a miniature black 
piglet wandering around so I ask them where Ryoga went and they tell 
me some strange girl took him!" Forming a dark expression Akane 
said, "Whoever she is, she better not hurt Ryochan or I swear I'll rip 
her eyes out!"
	Sakura blanched, turning a sickly color at this comment, while 
Kodachi averted violet eyes towards the front entrance of the 
restaurant. "What did this alleged piglet look like my dear Akane?"
	"You know what Ryoga looks like in his cursed form Dachi!" 
Akane retorted irately, rubbing her temples to ease the pounding 
behind her eyes.
	"Well, I don't suppose he looks like that piglet directly in front 
of us, does he?" Kodachi purred, gesturing towards the form of a 
petite girl with a mane of long curly brown hair holding an unconscious 
Ryoga piglet. 
	"Ryochan!" exclaimed Akane in relief, rushing forward 
towards Ryoga piglet who was slowly awakening. 
	Upon seeing Akane he burst into a fit of distressed squeals 
and attempted to escape from the grip of the girl who held him. The 
girl meanwhile was scrutinizing Akane with some degree of wariness in 
her bright blue eyes. 
	"Go away!" she cried anxiously, clutching Ryoga piglet more 
tightly to her. At this action his dark brown eyes bulged outwards and 
he gasped for breath. "This is Azusa's little Charlotte." 
	"Charlotte?" blinked Akane. Shaking her head on the mere 
idea someone thinking Ryoga was a girl Akane demanded seriously, 
"Enough jokes. His name is Ryoga and he isn't yours. Give him back 
to me."
	Pouting severely the girl now identified as Azusa shook her 
head vehemently. "No! No! You're wrong. Don't you think Azusa 
knows her own little pet Charlotte?"
	"Pet?!" Akane screeched. "Ryochan isn't anyone's pet!!" 
Squaring her shoulders Akane broached the girl fully ready to do 
anything to get Ryoga back. 
	That was when a pair of tapering hands gently grasped Ryoga 
piglet by his bandanna, holding him high in the air, out of Azusa's 
reach. Looking up Akane was met by a pair of sparkling azure eyes 
that rivaled Ranma's cobalt ones in beauty. Standing before her was a 
handsome boy, very tall in height, wearing an sleek sky blue suit. 
	"Is it yours?" questioned the boy charmingly.
	Taken aback by his captivating tone of voice Akane could 
only stammer, "Y-yes. I guess you could say that."
	Forming a winning smile the boy easily handed Ryoga piglet 
over to Akane who held him while focusing on the boy with wonder. 
"Please accept my apologies Miss...?" he trailed off searchingly.
	"Tendo Akane," replied Akane instantly. Brightening with a 
smile she continued, "My name is Tendo Akane."
	"Ah," the boy smiled in satisfaction. "Such a lovely name. One 
I shall surely never forget. I am called Mikado."
	By this time Sakura and Kodachi had moved from their table 
towards the scene before them. Overhearing this compliment Sakura 
made a face and whispered in Kodachi's ear, "P-U. Think this guy can 
get any cornier?"
	Kodachi smirked, "True he sounds like a cheap French film 
but I do believe Akane is somewhat impressed by his obvious charms. 
He is very well spoken."
	On this observation Sakura made a retching sound and 
Kodachi rolled her violet eyes. From dating Sakura for over a month 
the dark gymnast had learned that her lovely companion, though 
obviously female, shared many male characteristics. The most clear 
being that Sakura had, at times, an incredible lack of romanticism. 
Even them seeing a romantic film was a result of insistent wheedling 
and the promise to attend a Kung-Fu movie festival the week after. 
	Turning back to the conversation Kodachi found that Mikado 
was explaining Azusa's actions. "So you see, she makes a habit of 
collecting these cute little things," he smiled contentedly, seemingly 
unaware that Azusa was repeatedly hitting him on the back of the 
head. "Even if they don't belong to her," Mikado revealed tediously. 
Azusa was now assaulting him with a frying pan but azure eyes 
remained focused on Akane. "She has an appalling habit of giving 
things a silly name then taking them home with her." 
	Raising an chocolate brow eyebrow Sakura questioned, "Isn't 
that illegal?" 
	"Quite, my darling," agreed Kodachi, folding her arms over her 
ample chest. 
	Ignoring this interruption Mikado continued smoothly, "So that 
is why the one she calls Charlotte is actually in fact your own abducted 
pet pig."
	Upon hearing pet Ryoga piglet squealed indignantly and 
Akane flushed. "Actually," she began nervously. "Ryoga isn't my pet. 
He's my--" The rest of Akane's statement was drowned out by the 
loud crash caused as Azusa hit Mikado with a wooden chair. 
	"Ouch," winced Sakura. "That's gotta hurt." 
	No reaction came from Kodachi as she studied Azusa and 
Mikado inquisitively. 
	Apparently having enough of her assaults Mikado whirled 
around to face Azusa. "Enough!" he shouted finally losing his easy 
charisma. "You've made your point!"
	Bright blue eyes watered at being yelled at and Azusa released 
a high pitched whine that resembled that of a baby's. Abruptly shifting 
her gaze Azusa glared at Akane. "If you won't give back Charlotte 
then Azusa challenges you!" 
	Staring blankly ahead Akane asked nonplused, "You want to 
fight me?" 
	"Don't be so tacky," pronounced Azusa, scrunching her nose 
in distaste. "Azusa is talking about figure skating." Holding up a pair of 
white skates she mocked, "You do know how to skate don't you? If 
Azusa wins then you give her back Charlotte." 
	"Now I recall," Kodachi murmured in realization. "I was 
positive I had seen their countenances before. They are the Golden 
Pair of Kolkhoz high. Second only to myself in athletics legends among 
the high school circuit. Although," sniffed Kodachi. "They would stand 
no chance if I should take it in my head to compete in figure skating as 
well as rhythmic gymnastics." 
	Disregarding the latter insult on the part of the dark gymnast 
the Golden Pair proceeded to introduce themselves with a high degree 
of brash confidence.
	"I'm Shiratori Azusa," said Azusa with a smug smile.
	"Sanzenin Mikado," Mikado said bowing. 
	Moving to her friend's side Kodachi whispered to Akane, 
"You might consider withdrawing from any sort of competition against 
them. The Golden Pair have an unbroken record of one hundred and 
fifty victories." Kodachi paused then added, "Without the aid of 
traditional scare tactics that I myself admit to utilizing. Not shabby for 
plebeians."
	"Not a chance," returned Akane hissing. "I'm not about to let 
this twit think Ryoga is her pet. He's a human being! And no way am I 
letting her get anywhere near him again. Ryochan's mine!" 
	The last statement Akane said in such adamant tones of 
possessiveness that Ryoga piglet lifted his head to confirm if he heard 
correctly. On seeing the dark rivalry dancing in light brown eyes he 
couldn't help but grin widely. If this didn't prove Akane cared for him 
nothing would. 
	Giggling Azusa refinely covered her mouth in a ladylike 
fashion. "Why don't just surrender now and get it over with? Azusa 
never loses!" 
	Before Akane could respond to this Mikado pushed his 
birdbrained partner out of the way. Smiling apologetically he 
questioned, "Can you find it in your heart to forgive my partner's 
rudeness? And as a token of my apology..." Swiftly Mikado hands 
moved to cup Akane's face gently. Stunned brown eyes were 
transfixed on azure ones as he lowered his face for an impending kiss. 
	Just as Akane was preparing to employ one of her favorite 
self-defense moves and flip Mikado over her shoulder Ryoga piglet 
leapt from her hold to jump on Mikado's face. The figure skater 
screamed loudly in shock as Ryoga piglet scratched furiously at his 
face as Mikado clumsily moved backwards to crash into several tables 
and fall to the floor. Upon his fall Ryoga piglet satisfied himself with a 
few last vicious scratches and one ferocious bite then returned to the 
warm haven of Akane's arms. 
	Smiling widely Akane gently stroked Ryoga piglet's forehead 
as he snuggled against her. "Thanks Ryochan," she murmured fondly. 
	Recovering quickly Mikado rose to his feet. Combing back his 
hair he commented suavely, "Adorable piglet you have there Akane. 
Very well then," Mikado smiled rakishly. "My special apology will just 
have to wait until later. Lucky for you I am an patient man."
	On the word man Sakura snorted loudly and Kodachi had to 
restrain her usual peals of manic laughter. Ignoring them Mikado 
continued smoothly, "The match will occur a week from today in the 
Kolkhoz skating rink." He paused to ridicule, "You do have a boy to 
skate with?"
	Sniffing Akane said haughtily, "I don't have a boy. I have a 
man. A real one... unlike you." Saying that Akane swept out of the 
restaurant holding an overjoyed Ryoga piglet in her arms. 
	Following after her best friend Kodachi exited quickly leaving 
a trailing Sakura on her tail. Pausing in front of Mikado the street 
fighter studied him with cool green eyes. Standing in front of him 
Sakura disconcerted the figure skater by shifting into a friendly smile. 
Suddenly in a flash of movement swift hands snatched the collar of his 
shirt and Mikado gasped for breath. His handsome face was removed 
of all arrogance on gazing at the fierce expression on Sakura's face 
that rested only centimeters from his own. 
	"I wouldn't try that again if I were you," hissed Sakura, a 
dangerous glint in glittering green eyes. Mikado blinked as the friendly 
smile from before returned again. Releasing her hold on his collar 
Sakura slapped his cheek gently to say, "Okay?" 
	Swallowing deeply Mikado nodded nervously and this seemed 
to please Sakura and because of this he did not expect the powerful 
blow to his midsection a moment later. Falling hard on his back 
Mikado could only watch helplessly as the street fighter strode out of 
the restaurant. 
	Kneeling beside her partner Azusa questioned in concern, 
"Mickey? Is he hurt here?" In an action of supreme stupidity Azusa 
punched her partner in the exact place that Sakura had struck. 
	Wailing in pain Mikado clutched at his side, biting his lip to 
keep from yelling at his clueless partner, and instead simply threw her 
hands away from his midsection. This assault only increased his desire 
for kiss from Tendo Akane. Having protectors only made her more a 
challenge for him and Mikado would have his kiss. He would have his 
kiss and Azusa would have her Charlotte. Maybe, he thought darkly, if 
we win her that pig she'll stop being such a nuisance. 
	For whatever reasons they had the Golden Pair were now 
focused on their latest task. To defeat Tendo Akane and her chosen 
partner in the upcoming match. And once the Golden Pair of martial 
arts figure skating had their minds made up it about something it was 
difficult to avert them. 

	Striding out of the restaurant Sakura smiled as the sound of 
Mikado's wail met her ears. Kodachi raised a raven eyebrow and 
questioned, "Whatever were you doing in there my darling Sakura?"
	"Nothing much," said Sakura stretching her back muscles. 
"Just giving Sanzenin some advice about ladies that's all. I figured he'd 
need it."
	"Mmm..." purred Kodachi moving to Sakura and tipping the 
other girl's chin up so their eyes met. "And you would be the best to 
give stalwart direction on the proper actions with the female 
persuasion. Wouldn't you dearest?"
	"Of course," Sakura smirked, tilting her head forward for a 
kiss. She paused in her approach though because from the corner of 
her eye she saw an baffling sight. 
	Rounding a corner was Genma who was screaming at male 
Ukyo that was trailing behind him with a shackle on his ankle that had 
a cannonball chained to it. Genma moved in a steady pace ahead of 
Ukyo leaping high into the air. Ukyo mimicked this movement only 
every time his feet hit the ground it would accompany a loud smashing 
sound and bits of concrete flying from the impact of the cannonball.
	"Faster girl!" boomed Genma at the top of his lungs while 
doing a high kick. "You're too slow!"
	"This isn't fair you jackass!" shouted Ukyo who was now 
dragging the cannonball with his bare hands. "And I'm a guy right now! 
Plus you had a head start, you cheater!"
	"Quit your whining Ukyo! If you can't take a simple training 
exercise how do you expect to ever take over the Anything Goes 
school of martial arts as the official--" Genma was drowned out by a 
series of panda gruff calls as an elderly woman accidentally emptied 
her dishwater onto his head. 
	Laughing loudly at this Ukyo hefted the cannonball into his 
arms and leapt high into the air catching up to his Sensei turned a 
panda. "That's what you get old man!" Ukyo taunted, taking the long 
route back to the dojo, never once noticing his four comrades staring 
widely at him.
	"What the hell...?" began Akane dazedly. 
	Shaking her head Sakura wrapped a strong arm around 
Kodachi's slim waist. "Genma never was one to go for conventional 
methods. Dragging Ucchan around Nerima like that is pretty normal 
when it comes to the crap he puts her through for the sake of training."
	Thinking on this a moment Akane shook her head, "I never 
thought I'd be so grateful to be a Tendo." Shrugging Akane picked up 
her pace to walk with her friends and head back home. 

	"You two are going to fight the Golden Pair?" asked Nabiki 
skeptically. "Please tell me this is a practical joke."
	Groaning Akane replied, "No this is not a joke. And could you 
try and be a little supportive Oneechan?"
	Arriving home they had found most of the household gathered 
in the sitting room compatibly busy with their own projects. Nabiki 
calculating the dojo expenses for the month compounded by the 
profits brought in from the new martial arts classes forming. Sakura 
and Ranma were completely enraptured watching a Kung-Fu movie 
on television. Kasumi was listening with half an ear as she scanned the 
semester course guides for Tokyo University and Nekomi Tech. Soun 
meanwhile switched from observing Kasumi working and reading the 
newspaper. After being broached by the entire dojo with the subject 
of his eldest daughter returning to school Soun had now calmed down 
and accepted it. Of course it had taken a good two weeks of nonstop 
crying on how he was losing his little girl but he had finally managed to 
accept it. As this all occurred Nodoka floated in and out of the room 
as she finished her afternoon cleaning. 
	"Sorry Akane," replied Nabiki dryly. "It's just I have a few 
doubts about your battling the undefeated champions of the martial 
arts figure skating world." Hazel eyes focused on the nervous figure of 
Ryoga, now in his male form. "Do you even know how to skate 
Ryoga?"
	"I can learn...?" Ryoga offered unconvincingly. 
	"That's right," chimed in Akane automatically. "He's a great 
martial artist. How hard can it be to teach Ryoga how to skate? 
Besides," Akane smiled widely. "As long as it's got martial arts in it 
there's no way we can lose."
	On this comment Nabiki shared a wary look with Kodachi 
who had long since given up on trying to tell her friend of the reality 
that was the Golden Pair's skill at their chosen sport. No matter what 
she said Akane stubbornly insisted that she and Ryoga would win 
anyway. 
	"Akane," murmured Kasumi while flipping the page in her 
course guide. "You never did say exactly why you're fighting this 
Golden Pair in the first place."
	The youngest Tendo sister opened her mouth to reply when 
Sakura interrupted with, "Shiratori Azusa kidnapped Ryochan. Pissed 
Akane off something awful so she accepted Shiratori's challenge soon 
as it was delivered. Whoever wins the match supposedly owns Ryoga 
as a piglet." 
	The Kung-Fu movie being on a commercial Sakura and 
Ranma shifted their focus from the television to the current discussion. 
Hearing this explanation Ranma started snickering. Cobalt eyes moved 
from Ryoga to Sakura as he teased, "You two were just born to be 
prizes in everyone else's grudge matches, huh?" 
	Both martial artists glared at Ranma and he smiled innocently 
before turning back to the television set. Kodachi was grinning and 
next to her Nabiki drawled, "Just let me give you my official support 
Akane. If you manage to win it's bound to be an upset. And that 
makes for great betting odds." Smiling sweetly, Nabiki returned to 
calculating their finances saying, "Good luck sis. My yen rests with 
you."
	"Thanks," Akane replied, rolling her eyes. 
	Drawing down his newspaper Soun commented, "So this girl 
thinks Ryoga is really an piglet then, eh? Perhaps if you simply told her 
the truth you could avoid this match. I personally have been enjoying 
all this peace and quiet we've been blessed with lately."
	Ryoga looked fearful at this prospect. If there was anything he 
kept closely guarded it was his Jusenkyo curse. Only his adopted 
family that was the ragtag group living at the Tendo dojo knew about 
his curse. No one else had any idea and he preferred to keep it that 
way. Fortunately for Ryoga his companion picked up on this acutely. 
	"Dad," scolded Akane. "That isn't a nice thing to do to 
Ryochan. I'm sure he doesn't want some nutcase like Shiratori Azusa 
knowing about his curse." Her pretty features turned dark as she 
muttered, "And there's always the chance she might take it into her 
head to date the human Ryoga." 
	Hearing this Ryoga laughed his nervous wild laugh and rubbed 
the back of his dark head. "That's a very scary thought Akane," Ryoga 
choked out. 
	Whatever Akane's reply was to be was interrupted by 
Nodoka's entrance into the room. Carrying a large box she called to 
her son, "Ranma! A package arrived for you."
	Leaping up with some excitement Ranma took the proffered 
package. Studying it closely he murmured with certain surprise, "It's 
addressed to me and Ucchan." Looking up cobalt eyes held definite a 
tinge of anxiety. "And it's from Shampoo all the way in China."
	All the room occupants shared a conjoined look of nervous 
anticipation. Kasumi was first to comment, "Open the package 
Ranma-kun. There hasn't been any sound of ticking so we know it isn't 
a bomb. Surely nothing dangerous could be sent through the 
international mail system."
	Swallowing deeply on the bomb comment Ranma carefully 
pulled back a strip of tape, opening the lid to the package. Soon as he 
had this accomplished a blur leapt from inside it and past his head. 
Blinking Ranma turned his head and found the figure of pink and 
cream colored cat gazing inquisitively at him. 
	"A cat!" Ranma cried happily. Walking towards it he held out 
his hands. "Here kitty, kitty..." Studying Ranma for a moment the cat 
released a soft meow then leapt into the safety of his arms. Scratching 
behind it's ears softly Ranma smiled. "I've always wanted a pet." 
Turning to Nodoka he pleaded, "Please Mom... can I keep it?"   
	Nodoka sighed at this. "Ranma you know the rules. No pets in 
the dojo."
	Groaning Ranma replied, "But we let Ryoga live in the house 
and he changes into a pig! Isn't he a pet like that? Shiratori Azusa 
thinks so!"
	"Ranma," growled Ryoga dangerously preparing to rise to his 
feet. He was stopped however by the gentle yet forceful hand of 
Kasumi on his shoulder. 
	"For once Ranma has an feasible argument Obasan Saotome," 
commented Kodachi. "Why not let him keep the feline as a pet? 
Perhaps it would be a valuable source of life experience to care for 
one other than himself."
	Having calmed Ryoga down Kasumi added, "I'm in agreement 
with Kodachi. Having a kitty really wouldn't cause that much trouble 
Obasan. Besides, it was a present from Shampoo. It would be rude to 
refuse a gift."
	Sighing again Nodoka formed an indulgent smile. "Very well," 
she breathed. "Since she is a gift, you may keep the cat Ranma. But 
make sure you take good care of her. She's to be your full 
responsibility."
	"I will Mom! Promise!" Ranma exclaimed beaming widely. 
Looking down at the cat he held Ranma scratched her again behind 
the ears gently and it responded with a low purr. Raising his gaze he 
inquired curiously, "You said she. How'd you know it's a girl Mom?"
	Turning to head out of the sitting room Nodoka pronounced, 
"Simple. What boy cat has pink fur?"
	Chuckling at this Ranma took his former seat on the floor next 
to Sakura. Gazing fondly at the cat that sat in his lap he murmured, 
"I've already got a name all picked out for you. C-chan..." Smiling 
widely Ranma looked at the dojo boarders. "Get it? Cat cute? Good 
name for a pretty kitty like her, don't you think?"
	"Yeah," said Nabiki dryly. "A great name. The real question is 
why did Shampoo send it to you and Ukyo in the first place?" 
	"I don't think keeping the cat is a good idea..." began Sakura 
nervously. "Ranma, I don't know why Shampoo sent you and Ucchan 
that cat but it's only going to cause trouble."
	"Trouble?" questioned Ranma in confusion. "Why would C-
chan cause trouble?" As he said this C-chan lifted her head to mimic 
Ranma's perplexed gaze.
	Biting her lip Sakura murmured, "I promised Ucchan not to tell 
anybody about this but she sorta has a--"
	The rest of her statement was cut off by the loud yell of, 
"Stupid old man! You're a damn jackass and I'm never listening to 
your ideas again!" 
	"Sounds like Ukyo's back," said Akane smiling. 
	Upon hearing this C-chan leapt out of Ranma's arms, dashing 
out of the sitting room and down the hallway leading to it. Ranma 
blinked in surprise at this and Sakura jumped to her feet to run after 
the disappearing feline. A moment later the sound of a panicked 
scream from Ukyo met all their ears and the group scrambled into the 
hallway. Arriving there they saw the figure of male Ukyo lying on the 
floor his hair on end and a terrified expression on his features. Sitting 
atop his smooth muscular chest was C-chan.
	"Shimatta," hissed Sakura lowly. Picking up C-chan in a 
frustrated yank she handed the cat to Ranma. "Get that thing away 
from Ucchan."
	"But--" Ranma protested.
	"NOW!" Sakura shouted, rage plainly shown on her face. No 
longer arguing Ranma turned on his heel taking his new pet up to the 
room he shared with Ryoga. 
	Kneeling beside Ukyo the street fighter pulled his lanky figure 
up into a sitting position. Rubbing his back reassuringly she whispered 
gently, "It's okay Ucchan. I got rid of it.. come back to us. You're safe 
now... safe."
	Sandalwood eyes gained focused to shift their gaze to Sakura. 
"C-c-c-c..." Ceasing his fearful stammers Ukyo relented finally able to 
ask, "Is it gone?"
	"Yeah it's gone. I told Ranma to get rid of it," Sakura smiled 
softly. "You're okay now.. I won't let that thing get anywhere near you 
again. All right?"
	Ukyo nodded slowly at this and seeing her former lover had 
calmed down Sakura rose to her feet. Turning her gaze to the others 
she stated, "Get Ucchan out of here. Bring her to the sitting room. 
We'll be there in a minute."
	Silently the other dojo occupants helped a shivering Ukyo to 
his feet and led him back to the sitting room leaving Sakura alone with 
Genma panda. Only Kodachi paused in this trek, to gaze at the street 
fighter with some degree of anxiety. Wondering what had brought 
Sakura to such an over protective stature regarding Ukyo. Whatever it 
was she definitely didn't like it.
	When they were left alone Sakura turned to glare at Genma 
panda demanding, "You need to tell them." 
	Feigning innocence Genma panda up a sign. <Tell them what? 
Why me?> 
	"Why you?" snarled Sakura nearing him. "Maybe because 
you're the monster who did this to Ucchan. Messed with her head until 
she was stuck with a phobia that controls her mind and consumes it 
entirely. But sure! Fine!" Sakura said flippantly throwing her hands into 
the air. "Don't tell them about it. That'll work out perfectly. Especially if 
you want Ranma to keep that creature as a pet." She paused to smile 
viciously. "Wouldn't that be fun? A little..." Leaning forward Sakura 
whispered in his ear, "Kitty running around the dojo. Wouldn't you just 
love that? Especially knowing what it would do to Ucchan." Pulling 
back Sakura saw the nervous look Genma panda had. "Now don't 
you think you should tell everyone about what you did to Ucchan?"
	Nodding slowly Genma panda reluctantly held up a sign that 
read. <Of course but let me change back first.>
	Smiling in satisfaction Sakura grabbed his elbow. "All right. 
But I'm coming with you.. just in case. There's no way I'm going to 
give you the chance to run out on this one."
	Dropping his head in resignation Genma panda slowly walked 
towards the kitchen with Sakura to boil some hot water. He wasn't 
looking forward to this explaining his motives behind this particular 
mistake. And Genma had a feeling that the reaction it would cause 
with the residents of the dojo would, in some ways, be worse than the 
Master's.

	Sitting nervously before the entire dojo household and 
Kodachi included Genma swallowed nervously. Gazing at the still 
shivering figure of a now female Ukyo who rested in the comforting 
hold of Ranma. 
	Swallowing deeply Genma said, "Ailurophobia." 
	"Ailurophobia? Fear of cats?" questioned Ranma in confusion. 
On hearing the word cat Ukyo shivered more violently and Ranma 
held her closer to him. "What's going on Father?"
	"What's going on is that his own cruel techniques for training 
are coming back to bite him in the ass," Sakura muttered darkly glaring 
at Genma. "Stop stalling and tell them about the training method 
already."
	"All right," sighed Genma morosely. "Long ago, only shortly 
after I had begun the training mission the Master requested I depart 
upon with Ukyo, I came upon one of his most sacred and secret 
martial arts technique booklets. This technique was truly the most 
brilliant and terrifying in results and I knew it had be mastered by our 
chosen heir. So  IthrewUkyointoapitofhungrycatstolearnitassaid."
	After spitting all this out in one hurried mouthful Genma 
jumped to his feet and prepared to rush out of the room. Only he was 
prevented by the strong hand of his wife holding the back of his gi. 
	"Genma," Nodoka hissed. "Did you just say that you threw 
Ukyo into a pit of hungry cats?"
	Hearing the word cat Ukyo began shivering nonstop and 
Ranma anxiously grabbed an offered blanket from Kasumi to wrap it 
around his iinazuke. "Father," Ranma said in disbelief. "Why would 
you do that?"
	Sweating profusely Genma replied, "Well my boy it was part 
of the instructions for mastering the Nekoken or the Cat-Fist. It's 
unbeatable technique... I just didn't know the consequences it would 
have on the girl."
	"Consequences," snarled Sakura. "She changes into an animal 
under that technique! It's like Ucchan isn't even human anymore! You 
made her completely terrified of those creatures and without even 
bothering to learn everything about the method!" Striding forward 
Sakura hissed, "Ucchan told me everything about the Master's 
reaction on finding out you used that technique on her. He almost 
banished you for using it on her, that's how cruel it is! He even labeled 
it as expressly too dangerous on the human psyche to put into use... 
but you never bothered to read that page!" Grabbing Genma by his 
collar Sakura bore angry eyes into panicked ones. "Do you know how 
much I really want to kill you for doing that to Ucchan?" 
	"No," rang the clear calm voice of Ukyo. Rising to her feet she 
repeated, "No. Don't do it Sakura. I stopped you once and I'll stop 
you again."
	"But Ucchan," Sakura objected. "He needs to pay for what he 
did to you."
	Ukyo chuckled lowly. "Oh believe me.. Pops paid for it plenty 
when the Master found out. And I doubt that you could do any better 
than him when it comes to dishing out  punishment." 
	Sakura was going to protest some more when Nabiki 
intervened questioning, "Exactly what was included in teaching you this 
technique Ukyo?"
	Sighing deeply Ukyo replied warily, "Only dumping me 
repeatedly into a pit of hungry cats with fish sausage tied to me. Of 
course," Ukyo glared venomously at Genma. "The old man didn't think 
doing it just once would do the trick so I had to go through the training 
three times before the Master found out. Which explains my fear of c-
c-c..." Giving up on pronouncing the one thing she was utterly afraid of 
Ukyo relented, "Those furry creatures."
	Thinking of his newfound pet Ranma questioned, "Is there a 
way you can be cured of your phobia?"
	"If there is I haven't heard of it," Ukyo answered. Her iinazuke 
formed a morose expression at this response causing Ukyo to wonder 
at it and why her worst fear had been in the dojo in the first place. 
"Out of curiosity Ranchan where did the thing come from?"
	"Shampoo sent it to us both in the mail," sighed Ranma. "I was 
hoping to keep it as a pet... cause I mean, Shampoo sent it for a 
reason right? Couldn't just send a helpless animal away. But I guess 
we better get rid of it now." 
	Studying his sad expression Ukyo felt her heart tug. If only 
there was some way to...
	"Get rid of your phobia."
	Snapping out of reverie Ukyo gazed at Kasumi. "Huh? Did 
you say something Kasumi?"
	Smiling indulgently Kasumi repeated, "I said I might be able to 
help you get rid of your phobia Ucchan." 
	"Really???" cried Genma escaping the grip Nodoka had on 
him. "Can you really cure the girl Kasumi?"
	"I think so," replied Kasumi easily. "It's really all a matter of 
psychological association. When I first attended Tokyo University I 
took several psychology courses. One of them specialized in phobias." 
Pausing a moment Kasumi murmured, "If I remember correctly, what 
happens is that when Ukyo sees a feline she immediately freezes from 
her fear. This is because she unconsciously recalls the memory of her 
Nekoken training. This makes Ukyo associate felines with that 
experience and this causes her phobia. But with a series of sessions 
there is a possibility that I could gradually get Ukyo to associate felines 
with something more pleasant. If it works, it could erase any fear she 
has of them." Pausing again Kasumi frowned. "The only problem is 
that the ability to use the Nekoken technique would be destroyed. 
Once Ukyo is cured of her phobia there's no way she could use it."
	On hearing this Genma began wailing about all his hard work 
going to waste and Ukyo smoothly unsheathed her battle spatula to hit 
him on the head. Turning to face Kasumi she wore a face of hope. "It 
doesn't matter Kasumi. It's just one technique in hundreds I've learned 
over the years. I can live without it." Glaring at Genma Ukyo 
continued, "And so can Pops for that matter."
	"Then it's settled. Ranma will be able to keep C-chan because 
she will be the focus of our training sessions." Light brown eyes 
focused on Ranma and Kasumi said, "I'm afraid I'll need to your help 
in these sessions Ranma. As Ukyo's iinazuke she puts the most trust in 
you and we'll need that to help her to overcome her fear. Will you 
agree?"
	Immediately Ranma cried, "Of course! I'll do anything to help 
Ucchan! You should know that Kasumi."
	"I know that Ranma-kun," sighed Kasumi. "But for you to help 
Ukyo you will have to see her in a state of incredible helplessness 
caused by the phobia. In other words you're going to see her terrified 
and you won't be able to help her. She has to get through it on her 
own. Will you be able to deal with that?"
	Considering this Ranma gazed into sandalwood eyes and saw 
the silent plea there. Steeling his cobalt gaze Ranma replied 
emphatically, "For Ucchan's sake I can deal with anything. I'll be all 
right Kasumi. I promise."
	Concentrating on the current discussion none in the dojo 
noticed as a stealthy black blur exited from underneath the dojo floor 
to jump over the high wall. No one, that is, except C-chan from her 
vigil on the windowsill from inside Ranma and Ryoga's room. 

	Sitting on top of the dojo roof with her iinazuke Ukyo 
questioned solemnly, "Why do you think Shampoo sent C-chan to us 
anyway?"
	On being told Ranma's chosen name for his new pet Ukyo had 
found it much easier to simply call it by it's name than by it's normal 
classification. After diffusing the situation caused by learning of the 
Nekoken the couple departed to the roof for their usual nightly chat. 
Downstairs things had calmed down considerably. Kodachi had gone 
home with Sakura accompanying her on the way. Ryoga was watching 
television with Akane. Genma had been drug off by Nodoka for a 
good talking to. Nabiki left after receiving a phone call  from Ryonami 
and Soun was discussing Kasumi's college course selections with her. 
	"I dunno Ucchan," replied Ranma thoughtfully. "But my best 
guess is that she doesn't want to be forgotten. She probably sent C-
chan to remind us that she's still out there and eventually she'll be 
coming back. Or maybe she sent C-chan as a sign of good will. But I 
doubt that's true, I mean we weren't that nice to her." 
	Considering this Ukyo sighed, "The first makes the most sense 
I suppose. When I first found out that Shampoo was the one who sent 
us C-chan I almost thought that she knew about my phobia." 
	Shifting his position Ranma held Ukyo's hands in his own while 
boring gentle cobalt eyes into hers. "I wouldn't worry about that 
Ucchan. I have this feeling, I dunno why, that Shampoo would never 
do anything to hurt us. She's doesn't seem like a genuinely vindictive 
person. And anyway, how would she know about the Nekoken 
training?"
	Shivering on the word Nekoken Ukyo replied, "I guess you're 
right Ranchan. I just can't shake the strangeness of her sending us C-
chan of all things. Kind of eerie." Lifting her head she smiled gently at 
him. "I'm just glad you're taking this so well. Why is it that you never 
seem shocked or disgusted by all the oddities in my life?"
	"Ucchan," breathed Ranma incredulously. "There's no reason 
for me to be any of those things. Having this phobia isn't your fault. If 
anything it's my Father's." Averting his gaze Ranma said sadly, "I don't 
understand how he could've done something like that to you. It's so 
cruel..." Tucking his legs under his chin Ranma continued. "I never 
knew my Father growing up. He had to leave when I was still little on 
that training mission with you and the Master but I'd always hoped he 
was a good person. Since he was never around I made up stories of 
what he was like in my head." Ranma offered Ukyo a wan smile. "Like 
he was some sorta secret Government agent or something. You know 
the things kids invent. Anyway... when Nabiki told me that you two 
were finally returning home my heart nearly burst out of my chest I was 
so excited. Then the first sight of my long lost Father, the greatest of 
martial artists, is a giant panda. Kind of a let down but it was okay. I 
didn't care about the curse, all that mattered was that he was back 
home." Gazing deeply into Ukyo's eyes Ranma confessed, "I'm really 
angry with him Ucchan. I don't know if I can forgive him for doing this 
to  you. I know he's my Father but this... this is so..." Ranma broke off 
shaking his head. "I don't even have a word for it. I just don't 
understand how he could have done this to you."
	"Ranma," began Ukyo gently. Resting her chin on his shoulder 
sandalwood eyes peered tenderly upward. "Pops didn't mean any 
harm. Really he didn't. I think the whole thing happened because he 
was so eager to please the Master. To be honest, the Master scares 
the crap out of most people. I think I'm one of the few folks who 
honestly likes the little guy. I mean, how could I not? He did so much 
for me in my life." Ukyo formed a fond smile. "Anyway, when Pops 
found that training booklet for the Nekoken..." Ukyo shivered on 
saying the word. "He read about how impressive the results were in 
battle and thought the Master would be happy with him if he taught it 
to me. Unfortunately for me, and him, Pops is a little too enthusiastic 
sometimes and he never read the entire booklet. So here I am." Soft 
hands tenderly held the planes of Ranma's face. "Ranchan," Ukyo 
whispered. "He never meant to hurt me. Honest he didn't. Please don't 
be angry at him... I've gotten past the anger. There's nothing I can do 
about the past and like I told Sakura, Pops got more than his deserved 
punishment from the Master." Ukyo chuckled on recalling the memory. 
"The little guy was furious for weeks afterwards. Made the old man's 
life a living hell, more than usual. Besides, with your and Kasumi's help 
I might be able to conquer my fears. Then this entire subject will be 
moot. Won't it now?"
	Sighing deeply Ranma admitted, "I guess. I think I'm going to 
need some time to forgive him for this though. One thing is for sure..." 
Ranma smiled wryly. "My Father has fallen off that golden pedestal 
I've placed him on."
	"Well now," Ukyo chuckled teasingly. "I don't think that's such 
a bad thing, is it? Considering the kind of person Pops is I'd hate for 
you to emulate his example."
	Rolling cobalt eyes Ranma drawled, "The Kami forbid that 
should ever happen." Pausing a moment he asked, "What do we do 
when Shampoo returns?"
	Pondering this question Ukyo finally replied, "We should think 
about our options. There really isn't much we can do to get out of our 
engagement to her in Amazon laws. I was actually thinking we 
should..." Ukyo turned a shade of red as she said, "Consider a three 
way marriage."
	"What?!" cried Ranma at the top of his lungs as he leapt to his 
feet. "Are you nuts Ucchan?! I don't love Shampoo so why in hell 
should I marry her? I don't--"
	Rising to her feet Ukyo hushed Ranma by placing a lithe finger 
over his lips. "Because it might be our only peaceful option of resolving 
the situation. The only other thing I can think of is finding someone 
who likes Shampoo then have them beat us in an arranged fight. That 
would transfer our engagements to her to that person." Ukyo formed a 
sour expression. "But what are the chances of finding someone who 
could believably beat us?" 
	"And it isn't honorable," Ranma lamented. Taking his former 
seat on the dojo roof he sighed. "Like I said before. It's better to be 
engaged to Shampoo and be alive to figure a way out of it then to be 
dead and free." 
	Sitting next to her iinazuke Ukyo bumped shoulders with him 
playfully. "That's the spirit," smiled Ukyo. "But don't go worrying about 
it now Ranchan. After all, other than C-chan we haven't seen or heard 
hide nor hair of her. Lets just wait until we have to deal with the 
situation to start worrying about it, okay? There's no sense in making 
ourselves crazy."
	"That's fine with me," Ranma turned to Ukyo wearing a small 
smile. "Anyway, we have plenty of things to occupy our time with in 
the meantime." 
	"Like my sessions with Kasumi," Ukyo remarked thoughtfully. 
"We begin tomorrow morning and have three sessions a day. I wonder 
if it will actually work. If it does and she can actually cure me of my 
phobia..." Shaking her head in wonderment Ukyo breathed, "I can't 
even describe how happy I'll be. It'll be like a part of me is restored." 
	Wrapping an arm around her shoulders Ranma replied, "That's 
why I'm helping her Ucchan. I know how much this will mean to you. I 
hope it works out for you and for C-chan."
	"C-chan?" Ukyo drawled. Pulling away she raised an oak 
brown eyebrow sardonically. "Putting your pet on the same level as 
your iinazuke are we?"
	Blushing furiously Ranma stammered, "N-no! It isn't that 
Ucchan!" Waving his hands he calmed to explain, "It's just I'd hate to 
give her away to the pound. She's a present from Shampoo... she 
wouldn't have sent us C-chan for no reason. Out of respect for 
Shampoo and as apology of sorts for how we treated her we should 
keep C-chan. Take good care of her. It's the right thing to do."
	Smiling fondly Ukyo returned to the warmth of Ranma's 
embrace. Poking his side teasingly she said, "Don't be so jumpy. I was 
only joking about C-chan. Plus you're completely right about owing it 
to Shampoo. After the way we blew her off we do owe her. Still..." 
Ukyo trailed off introspectively. "I can't help wondering why she 
would do such a thing." 
	Gazing up into the star filled sky above them the couple 
pondered on this odd fact while wondering about the motives of the 
girl behind it.

	"So you see," Ranma explained gently. "It isn't that Ucchan 
doesn't like you it's that she had a really bad experience with cats as a 
kid and now she's scared even hearing the word cat. So for awhile 
now you can't go near Ukyo or else she'll freak out. Understand?" 
	"Mew," replied C-chan heartily.
	Peering into scarlet eyes of C-chan Ranma smiled upon seeing 
understanding in his new pet's eyes. Scratching her behind her ears 
Ranma murmured, "You're such a smart girl. I knew you'd 
understand." As he scratched behind her ears C-chan arched her head 
upward in pleasure while releasing a low satisfied purr.
	Continuing down the stairs Ranma held C-chan in his arms as 
he prepared for the first therapy session Kasumi had planned that day 
for the four of them. Ukyo, himself, Kasumi, and C-chan who was to 
be the focus of helping Ukyo to overcome her phobia of cats. For this 
morning session they all had to wake much earlier as to not be late for 
school. Kasumi insisted that one session be in the morning before 
school, one immediately after school, and one before bedtime. These 
sessions would occur every day and were not to be missed. If they 
diverted from this plan Kasumi said it would have adverse effects on 
Ukyo's therapy. 
	"So that's why we're having these sessions C-chan. With our 
help Kasumi is going to get Ucchan over her fear of cats. If we 
succeed it will really make Ucchan happy." Lifting C-chan in his arms 
Ranma peered into kind scarlet eyes. "Don't you want that?"
	Immediately the cat nodded it's tiny head while releasing a soft 
meow and Ranma beamed widely. He knew most people would think 
him crazy but he could swear that C-chan understood every word he 
said. He felt comfortable in her presence and ever since her arrival 
yesterday Ranma had been talking to the cat. Somehow by explaining 
the situation with Shampoo to C-chan he set his soul at ease. As if by 
communicating his sorrow about how they handled the situation with 
Shampoo to the cat she sent them it was somehow reaching the 
Amazon. Shaking his head at the strangeness of it Ranma decided not 
to brood on it. A lot of people talked to their pets. He would just 
leave it at that.
	"Talking to your dumb kitty again Ranma?" Ryoga called in a 
teasing voice behind him. 
	Gritting his teeth Ranma shifted his gaze to the figure of Ryoga 
who stood at the top of the stairs. "How cute," the lost boy chuckled. 
"Wait until I tell Sakura about this one. She'll enjoy--" Ryoga was cut 
off as while trying to walk past Ranma a foot shot out in front of him 
causing Ryoga to trip and go tumbling down the stairs.
	"Don't make fun of my C-chan," said Ranma firmly as he 
walked past the crumpled form of Ryoga and towards the training 
room for their morning session.
	As the pair walked away Ryoga looked up to meet the eyes of 
Ranma's new pet who was riding on his shoulder. The cat had stuck 
out it's tongue and was wearing what appeared to be a smug look on 
feline features. 
	"Mew!" called C-chan haughtily as they departed. 
	"Stupid cat..." muttered Ryoga lowly. 

	"For our first session we're going to start things off slowly," 
said Kasumi.
	Kasumi was standing beside Ranma whose back was turned 
to Ukyo being that he held C-chan in his arms. Ukyo stood across 
from the three of them with a decidedly anxious look in sandalwood 
eyes.
	 Walking across the dojo training room Kasumi said in slow 
calm tones, "I want you to close your eyes Ukyo. Bring yourself to a 
place of total peace." 
	The okonomiyaki chef complied and closed sandalwood eyes. 
After several moments Kasumi noted that her breathing had slowed 
considerably. Standing beside Ukyo she murmured gently in her ear, 
"Now I want you to picture the place at which you're most peaceful. 
The one location that fills you totally with contentment and ease." 
Pausing Kasumi watched emotions flit across beautiful features. "Do 
you have the image, Ukyo?" She nodded her head and Kasumi smiled. 
"Good. Hold that image in your mind while concentrating on your 
breathing. Take slow steady breaths that you control. Name them as 
you inhale and exhale. Allow the pattern to set both your mind and 
body in restful state until all inside you to falls away and you become 
totally relaxed." Edging away from Ukyo the eldest Tendo crossed the 
room walking backwards saying, "Remember now, inhale and exhale. 
Inhale and exhale. Keep the pattern..."
	Observing with keen eyes as her subject obeyed her 
instructions Kasumi stopped at Ranma's side. Whispering in his ear 
Kasumi said, "She's almost at the state we need her to be in. 
Whatever happens don't move from this place. She needs to get 
through this on her own. Ukyo will see your love for her in your eyes." 
Light brown eyes gazed inquisitively into blue ones. Ranma nodded his 
head in agreement and Kasumi smiled. "Good. Wait for my word then 
turn around and let her see C-chan." 
	Moving back to Ukyo smoothly Kasumi murmured in gentle 
tones, "Are you keeping track of your breathing Ukyo? Inhale and 
exhale?" Ukyo nodded her head in a slow transfixed movement. 
"Good. When on the count of three you will open your eyes. 
Remember to stay focused on your breathing and that calm place you 
love so much. Can you remember to do that Ukyo?" Again Ukyo 
nodded her head in a slow mesmerized motion. "That's a good girl..." 
Kasumi said in fond reassuring tones that made Ukyo smile softly. 
Feeling her heart strings tug at this Kasumi softly ran her fingertips 
down Ukyo's cheek before turning to Ranma. 
	"Now Ranma," she said and the pigtailed boy complied turning 
around to face them with a contented C-chan resting in his arms. 
Kasumi focused her attention back on Ukyo saying softly, "On the 
count of three Ukyo you will open your eyes. You will not be scared 
of what you see. Instead you will remember that calm place that sets 
your heart free. You will concentrate on your breathing. Keep track of 
it. Inhale and exhale. Inhale and exhale. Do you understand Ukyo?" 
Nodding her head slowly Ukyo confirmed her comprehension. "Good. 
On the count of three open your eyes. One... two... three." 
	Sandalwood eyes blearily opened and focused on the figure of 
C-chan who was staring at her with curiously concerned eyes. The 
initial wave of terror seized her system on seeing a cat and Ukyo felt 
herself clench inwardly.
	Seeing this Kasumi murmured gently, "Concentrate on your 
breathing Ukyo. Do it along with my voice. Inhale.. now exhale. 
Inhale.. exhale. Good girl. Keep it up. Now recall that safe place that 
you love so. No," Kasumi said in soft but forceful tones as 
sandalwood eyes averted away from the figure of C-chan. "Keep your 
eyes forward. Inhale.. exhale. Good, good. Remember that calm 
place. Calm your breathing. Control your heart rate." 
	Ukyo complied with Kasumi's instructions and felt her 
hammering heart calm itself considerably. Focusing on the figure of C-
chan in front of her Ukyo felt herself shudder as she unconsciously 
recalled her Nekoken training. It was then that Ukyo lifted her gaze to 
meet concerned cobalt eyes of her iinazuke. Ranma wore a face of 
gentle worry as he met her eyes he silently mouthed, "I love you."
	Blinking at this Ukyo felt her inner strength return and she 
forced the image of the summer home they rented in her earliest youth. 
Before the death of her birth Father. Before her life had changed 
forever and was twisted and turned into the strange creature that lay 
before her. As she did this Ukyo continued to stare at C-chan while 
willing herself to control the fear continually rising in her system though 
she fought against it. Just when Ukyo thought she could take it no 
more the kind voice of Kasumi said...
	"That's enough. Close your eyes Ukyo." Immediately Ukyo 
complied and sandalwood eyes shut. Resting her hands on Ukyo's 
shoulders Kasumi worked out the knots that had formed there. 
Murmuring softly, "That was very good Ukyo. I'm very proud of you. 
Now I want you to remember that calm place of yours. Do you have 
it?" Ukyo nodded in agreement. "Good. Picture yourself there with 
Ranma. The two of you are playing and having fun. Keep this image 
with you as you concentrate on your breathing. Inhale and exhale. 
Inhale and exhale. All right Ukyo?" Again Ukyo nodded her head 
slowly and Kasumi smiled. 
	Crossing the dojo training room quickly Kasumi said to 
Ranma, "I need a few minutes to bring her out of this calm state. Put 
C-chan back in your room then return here. When I bring her out of 
this Ukyo will want to see you." 
	Ranma nodded silently then dashed out of the dojo clutching 
C-chan tightly in his arms. Hoping as he ran up the stairs to his room 
that Kasumi's plan would work because he couldn't stand the look of 
transfixed terror that had floated in his iinazuke's eyes at just seeing a 
cat. It was now Ranma's goal to do anything to erase that look from 
existence in the beautiful sandalwood eyes he loved so much.
 
	Running behind Ranma on the way to school Ukyo shivered 
unconsciously as she recalled seeing C-chan. Sensing this Ranma 
gripped her hand more firmly in his own. Next to her Sakura gave 
Ukyo a look of concern.
	"Sure you're okay Ucchan?" Sakura questioned.
	"I'm fine," reassured Ukyo smiling. "I just need some time to 
get used to these sessions. I imagine I'll be pretty freaked out the first 
few times but eventually I'll get used to them. That's the whole point of 
it."
	Thinking on this Sakura said softly, "Yeah well. If you need 
anyone to talk to you know my ear is always free." 
	Cocking her head aside Ukyo replied, "Yeah. I know. Thanks 
Sakura. Your friendship means a lot to me."
	Blushing slightly Sakura coughed. "Aw... it's nothing. After all," 
Sakura shot Ukyo a lascivious grin. "I'm happy to do anything for an 
ex-girlfriend. And I mean anything." 
	Ukyo groaned at this and Sakura began to chuckle softly as 
Akane rolled her light brown eyes. 
	"I can't believe you made me fall down the stairs over that 
stupid cat Ranma," groused Ryoga as he kept pace next to his 
pigtailed comrade.
	Locking blue eyes with brown ones Ranma shrugged slightly. 
"I told you not to make fun of my C-chan," he said easily. "You 
should've listened to me."
	"Your C-chan?" Ryoga questioned. This was getting weird. 
He'd never seen Ranma this protective of anything other than Ukyo. 
"What is it exactly with you and that cat?" The latter word Ryoga 
whispered softly as to not alert Ukyo's attention. 
	Sighing Ranma thought on whether or not he wanted to tell 
Ryoga. The only person he told so far was Ukyo and that was 
because it was natural. Ukyo was his iinazuke, his best friend, his other 
half so of course Ranma told her about his fondness for C-chan. But 
Ryoga? Though he and the lost boy had become closer of late they 
certainly weren't on the same level of trust as he and Ukyo. Then 
again, Ranma had very few close friends. At school he had more than 
his share of acquaintances and he was fairly popular but hardly anyone 
knew the real him. Did he want to put Ryoga into that select category? 
Gazing into brown eyes Ranma was surprised to see a touch of worry 
floating in their depths. That made Ranma's decision for him.
	"I know this is gonna seem weird," Ranma confessed lowly. 
"But it's like by talking to C-chan about things I'm sort of talking to 
Shampoo too. I feel responsible for her. I mean, Shampoo sent C-
chan for a reason and because of that I don't want anything bad to 
happen to her." Pausing Ranma relented with, "That and I never had a 
pet before so it's kind of a cool thing to me. I know you think it's 
dumb so go ahead and make fun of me..."
	There was a long silence and Ranma turned his gaze to Ryoga 
who wore a withdrawn expression. "Ryoga?" asked Ranma with some 
concern. "You okay?"
	"Checkers," breathed Ryoga. Raising brown eyes he gazed at 
Ranma. "I have a dog back home named Checkers. I haven't seen her 
in years because of my journey to China and before that, my lousy 
sense of direction." Averting his gaze Ryoga whispered, "I wonder 
how she's doing..." trailing off Ryoga pondered this a moment. Raising 
his gaze again he smiled wanly at Ranma. "So, no Saotome. I don't 
think it's dumb at all. I know what it's like to love an animal."
	Biting his lip Ranma thought on holding back the immediately 
retort in his head. Gazing at his friend Ranma saw that the semi-
cheerful mood from this morning was now replaced with Ryoga's usual 
glum state. Ranma knew exactly how to bring him out of it.
	"You should," Ranma replied smirking. "You do change into 
one. It's easy to love your own kind."
	Ryoga took in this statement a moment then lifted his once 
sorrowful gaze to glare at his companion. "Saotome," Ryoga hissed. 
Ranma wore an innocent expression as his friend glared at him. "I'll get 
revenge on you for making such an insult!"
 	Tugging on Ukyo's hand Ranma moved into high speed to 
dash inside the Furinkan campus dragging Ukyo along with a raging 
Ryoga chasing after them. 

	"I can't believe it!" exclaimed Ukyo. 
	She was sitting with Ranma and Kasumi in the training room. 
Her iinazuke had C-chan sitting in his lap and Ukyo sat across from 
them with a face of complete calm. Four days had past since Ukyo's 
Nekoken training was revealed and her subsequent fear of cats. The 
group were currently going through their early morning session. 
	Beaming widely the heir to the Anything Goes school of 
martial arts embraced Kasumi in a tight hug. "You really did it 
Kasumi!" Ukyo cried. Pulling backwards Ukyo wiped away some 
tears hastily. "I'm scared being this close to C-chan but the absolute 
terror isn't there. I bet I could even pet her if I wanted!" Sandalwood 
eyes turned with some determination towards the cat but Kasumi 
halted this idea.
	"Now Ukyo don't be hasty," Kasumi murmured. "We've only 
just begun our sessions. While you've reached the point of close 
contact without being overcome by your fear I hardly think you're 
ready for actual contact." 
	Forming an disappointed face Ukyo sighed. "If you say so 
Kasumi. You're calling the shots." Turning to C-chan Ukyo smiled 
fondly. "Sorry girl, looks like you're going to have to wait awhile for 
me to pet you." 
	"Mew?" C-chan questioned sadly in tones of similar 
disappointment. Ukyo's reaction to this was a slight flinch. 
	Watching this closely Kasumi smiled. The therapy sessions 
were turning out better than she could ever hope for. Ukyo was 
working at such dedicated level to cure her phobia it was amazing. It 
was almost as if she was willing herself to not be afraid. Kasumi 
assumed part of the motivation came from Ukyo's feelings of guilt 
involving Shampoo that related back to C-chan. She found it fairly 
obvious that both Ukyo and Ranma felt terrible on how they handled 
Shampoo's feelings for them. In their own way they were attempting to 
assuage their own guilt by treating C-chan so well. Kasumi couldn't 
help grinning on recalling the treatment anyone received from Ranma if 
the boy thought they were picking on his C-chan.
	"Well," began Kasumi, breaking off this line of thought while 
rising to her feet. "That's all for now. You two don't want to be late for 
school." 
	Ukyo and Ranma complied quickly and moved to leave the 
training room. As they reached the doorway Kasumi called out, "Oh 
and Ranma-kun? Don't put C-chan away in your and Ryoga's room. 
Since Ukyo has adjusted to having her in close contact it will be fine to 
let C-chan wander around the dojo. I'm sure no one will mind." 
	Wearing identical faces of pleasure the couple nodded before 
dashing away. Shaking her head Kasumi smiled softly. She had really 
enjoyed spending time with Ukyo and Ranma over the past couple of 
days. And Kasumi knew when the time came to finally ending their 
therapy sessions she would miss them. It somehow wasn't the same 
seeing the around the dojo as it was during their sessions. Maybe it 
was because the sessions had leant her some degree of peer respect 
among them as martial artists. Sighing wistfully Kasumi walked out of 
the training room to begin her morning chores. A task that soon would 
handed over to Nodoka fully. In only a month Kasumi would return to 
her studies. An event she was looking forward to more each day. 
	Moving past the sitting room Kasumi paused to listen in on the 
conversation. They were discussing the upcoming figure skating match 
involving Ryoga and Akane. At this Kasumi grimaced slightly. They 
had been training almost nonstop and still Ryoga hadn't been able to 
master skating on his own. As she walked towards the kitchen Kasumi 
pondered on whether she should make an herbal remedy to help 
steady the nerves for Ryoga. 
	"So you're going to the rink again after school today?" Ranma 
asked wryly. Pointing his chopsticks at Ryoga he questioned, "Haven't 
you given up on the dope yet? You spent nearly six hours there 
yesterday Akane and he still couldn't manage to skate more than a 
minute before he fell down." Ranma paused to scratch C-chan under 
her chin and she purred contentedly. "I say you give up."
	"Give up?!" screeched Akane. "No way! No way am I letting 
that little psycho get her hands on Ryochan. We're going to beat their 
butts. Just you wait."
	Looking up from C-chan who she had just been feeding some 
of her chicken Ukyo said, "Are you sure about that Akane? Things 
don't look so good. What if the Golden Pair do win? What're you 
going to do then?"
	Ryoga paled visibly at the suggestion and envisioned himself in 
a small cage with metal bars surrounded by other trapped animals with 
a manic Azusa continuously cooing cutely in front of him. Shuddering 
on this prospect Ryoga slammed his hand down on the table.
	"Never!" Ryoga announced strongly. "We'll never lose! I'll 
master skating, just you wait! Failing is not an option when it comes to 
Akane! For her I will win this match and defeat the infamous Golden 
Pair! We'll crush them into submission with our bare hands!" 
	"Ryochan," breathed Akane with stars in her eyes. 
	Rolling bright green eyes Sakura averted her attention to 
Ukyo. "Seems like you're getting on better with C-chan these days," 
commented Sakura curiously. "Kasumi's methods are really working 
out for you then?"
	"Oh yeah," beamed Ukyo. Smiling at C-chan Ukyo was 
rewarded with a soft purr from the cat. Turning her gaze to Ukyo their 
pet made no move to leave Ranma's lap though it seemed from her 
longing expression she wanted to. "There's something about C-chan 
that makes it easy. Besides that first day she hasn't tried to jump on me 
again. It's like she knows about my phobia and respects my limitations 
in dealing with her." Wearing a wry look Ukyo offered, "It's almost 
like she's human. Kind of silly, huh?"
	Gazing thoughtfully at C-chan the street fighter mulled over 
this. "Not really," Sakura replied. "There's definitely intelligence in her 
eyes. Some animals are a lot smarter than others." Sakura smirked, 
"Sort of like people." Saying this Sakura directed her gazed towards 
Ranma who stuck out his tongue as a rebuttal. 
	C-chan meanwhile was glaring at Sakura and had raised her 
fur to stand on end. Hissing at the street fighter who merely raised an 
eyebrow curiously at this gesture. Ranma calmed her down with a few 
gentle words and a loving caress. Taking C-chan in his arms Ranma 
didn't see Sakura stick her tongue out at the cat but wondered on why 
his pet was trying to escape his hold that she normally so enjoyed 
being in. 
	Sighing at this scene Ukyo rose to her feet while grabbing her 
back pack. "C'mon you guys. We better get going or we'll be late for 
school."
	"Can't have that," Ranma smirked. "Especially since Kuno said 
he had a special surprise in store for the evil ponytailed boy during this 
morning's duel." 
	On hearing this Ukyo groaned. "I almost had that blocked out 
entirely Ranchan. Why'd you have to remind me?" Putting her back 
pack on Ukyo strode down the hallway to leave the dojo. "I hate 
changing forms at school. I wonder what that jackass wants with my 
boy type anyway."
	Now off the dojo premises the group moved into their easy 
dash towards Furinkan as they did every morning. 
	"Maybe you should leave your battle spatula and bandoleer in 
your locker Ucchan," suggested Akane. "That might drag the fight out 
longer than a minute."
	Pondering this Ukyo murmured, "Maybe. Thanks for the idea 
Akane. I'll consider it... I need to start refining my skills at unarmed 
combat. When the Master comes back I've got to be ready."
	"Ready?" questioned Ryoga. "Ready for what?"
	"Absolutely anything," answered Ukyo solemnly.

	Striding into the gym now in male form Ukyo warily took in 
the large crowd. Listening to Akane's suggestion he had neither his 
battle spatula nor bandoleer present for this duel. Deciding instead to 
test his skills at unarmed combat against his perpetually confused 
opponent. On the stage stood Kuno who was laughing in loud manic 
tones similar to his sister's. Next to him stood his loyal retainer, 
Sasuke, who was smiling sneakily. Neither had any idea Ukyo had 
arrived because the crowd of students concealed his presence nicely.
	Grimacing Ukyo questioned, "Ranchan, will you go  talk to 
Kuno? Maybe you can figure out what he's up to this time before I 
have to stomp him into the ground."
	"Sure Ucchan," replied Ranma before bounding towards the 
stage to talk to his friend.
	"What about you ponytailed boy?" Sakura asked in joking 
tones. "You have any plans to investigate?"
	Smirking Ukyo responded, "Naturally. And I've got the best 
contact in school." Directing sandalwood eyes into the teeming mass of 
students he spotted his target. Cupping his hands over his mouth Ukyo 
shouted, "Nabiki! C'mere!"
	Immediately the svelte brunette turned away from her 
customers in the direction of Ukyo's voice. Seeing her friends Nabiki 
made a quick excuse before heading their way. 
	"Well now," said Nabiki drolly. "Glad to see you had the time 
to make it to your own duel." 
	"Funny Nabchan," Ukyo said dryly. "But seriously, do you 
have any clue what it's about this time?" 
	Forming a solemn expression Nabiki answered, "None 
whatsoever. The only thing I know is Kuno baby seems to be ranting 
something about exposing the ponytailed menace for the true coward 
he is." Shrugging slightly Nabiki said, "And that could pretty much 
mean anything."
	"Great," muttered Ukyo darkly.
	Glancing around Nabiki questioned, "Where's Akane and 
Ryoga?"
	"Science lab," supplied Ukyo. "Apparently Akane is talking to 
the Chemistry club about helping Ryoga balance on the ice. I have no 
idea how she thinks they'll be able to help with that though."
	Glaring at several female students who were gaping at Ukyo in 
his boy type Sakura scowled, "They're staring at you again Ucchan. 
They better not do a replay of last week's incident because if those 
girls start chasing after you again  I'm going to have to do some 
damage. And don't think it matters to me that they don't know about 
your curse."
	"Now, now," drawled Nabiki. "Don't be so hasty. I can't let 
you destroy my customer base. Those girls have been making big 
investments in my photography studio."
	"Studio?" Sakura said skeptically. "What're you up to this time 
Nabiki?"
	"Up to? Moi?" Nabiki asked innocently, placing her hand over 
her chest. "I'm a simple businesswoman who is kindly supplying the 
female populous of Furinkan with what they demand. Pictures of Ukyo 
in her male form." 
	"Nabiki..." Sakura said, a dangerous glint in her eyes. 
	Sighing Ukyo touched his friend's shoulder. "Calm down 
Sakura. I gave Nabchan permission to take my picture and sell it. But 
Ranma," Ukyo directed his stern gaze to the middle Tendo sister. 
"That's something entirely different. I better not catch you selling any 
more photos of Ranma honey to those crazy girls again. Next time 
they might try ripping his shirt off. And you know I won't put up with 
that." 
	"Speak of the handsome devil," interrupted Nabiki.  Effectively 
ending their conversation to watch as Ranma approached hurriedly. 
	Halting in front of his iinazuke Ranma wore an defeated 
expression. "Sorry Ucchan," he apologized. "But I couldn't get Kuno 
to tell me anything. I all know is that he's getting pretty steamed about 
having to wait for the match to start."
	"That's your cue sir," smirked Sakura giving Ukyo a tiny shove 
in the back. 
	Groaning Ukyo shook his head and crackled his knuckles 
while moving through the crowd of students towards the stage. "Hey 
Kuno!" shouted Ukyo. "You wanted something?"
	Narrowing his gaze Kuno bellowed, "Ponytailed boy! You 
nefarious wretch, at last you arrive to face my wrath! Surely this time I 
shall smite you and claim Kuonji Ukyo as my own. Not mention 
Tendo Akane!" 
	In a smooth leap Ukyo landed across from Kuno wearing a 
tiny smirk. "You always say that and you never manage to beat me, do 
you?" 
	"This time will be different!" proclaimed Kuno as he began to 
chuckle lowly. "This time I shall reveal you to be cowering baby that 
you are. Sasuke!" Kuno cried, shifting his gaze to his retainer. "Ready 
the attack!"
	"Yes Master Kuno!" cried Sasuke.
	With a powerful tug Sasuke pulled back a large mechanical 
switch from the side of the stage. Instantly a large trapdoor opened in 
the middle of the stage. Unfortunately for Kuno his servant had 
miscalculated the trapdoor's location and it was directly where he 
stood. Causing Kuno to fall screaming into it and the dark pit it lead 
to.
	Crouching beside the trapdoor Ukyo stuck his head into the 
darkness and asked, "You okay Kuno?"
	"Curse you ponytailed boy! I'll make you pay dearly for this 
humiliation on my person!" Came the immediate response from down 
below.
	"I guess that answers that," muttered Ukyo humorously. Lifting 
his sandalwood gaze he stared at the advancing Sasuke. "Who was 
that trapdoor for anyway?"
	Laughing nervously Sasuke scratched his head while 
retreating. "N-nobody at all," stammered the timid Kuno servant. 
Suddenly his face shifted from anxiety to mocking confidence. 
Snatching a nearby rope Sasuke yanked it while shouting, "Now I 
have you ponytailed boy!" 
	A whistling sound filled the air and a pair of sandbags flew 
from the rafters, hitting Sasuke in the back of the head while knocking 
him into the pit with Kuno. 
	Returning to his former crouched position next to the trapdoor 
Ukyo muttered to himself, "I guess I better go to them or this match 
will never get started."
	Falling gracefully into the dark pit Ukyo landed easily across 
from the toppled figures of Kuno and Sasuke. Leaning down he 
questioned humorously, "And who exactly were you trying to knock in 
here anyway?"
	Releasing a groan Sasuke pushed himself up from under the 
unconscious figure of Kuno. Shakily his hand rose upwards as he said, 
"I have something for you."
	Squinting Ukyo knelt to take the offered gift in his hands. 
Blanching he asked, "Fish sausage? Why do--"
	Ukyo stopped mid-sentence as a quiet sound met his ears. 
Sandalwood eyes widened while he rose to his full height. Glancing 
slowly around the pit he could make out the shadowed figures of 
several hundred cats. Biting his lip Ukyo immediately closed his eyes 
and tried to picture the quaint summer home from his childhood as 
Kasumi had instructed him in their sessions. He managed to summon 
the image but it soon disappeared as the howls of the obviously hungry 
cats increased in volume. Shaking in terror he felt his hands lose grip of 
the fish sausage and several furry creatures brush against his leg in an 
attempt to seize the food as their own. Suddenly a mocking voice met 
his ears and he flinched.
	"So!" Kuno bolstered. "It is true! When my dear Sasuke 
informed me that you were deathly fearful of felines I thought surely it 
was a jest! My great foe, the ponytailed boy, scared of a few slight 
beasts as this? Never! But lo, here we stand and there you be. 
Trembling in your boots!" 
	Ukyo snarled. That was it! No way was he going to take 
insults from the likes of Kuno. Snapping sandalwood eyes open he 
glared at his opponent. Ukyo saw the expected look of triumph on 
Kuno's face before the usual confusion returned as he observed a no 
longer fearful Ukyo.
	"Who's trembling?" growled Ukyo lowly as he stalked 
forward. Grabbing Kuno by his collar he hissed, "Do I look like I'm 
trembling to you?"
	"Then you're not scared?" Sasuke asked timidly.
	"NO!" Ukyo screamed rage showing plainly on his sharp 
features. Releasing Kuno he clenched his fists and began to laugh 
insanely from seeing the gathered forms of the several hundred cats 
staring at him. For the first time since he was a small child going 
through the Nekoken training Ukyo was completely surrounded by his 
worst nightmare. Cats everywhere he looked. There was no escape. 
This final thought caused Ukyo's laugh to increase in volume and in it's 
crazed proportions.
	Kuno scowled darkly, "Laugh at me will you?!" Moving into a 
fighting stance Kuno swiftly retrieved his bokken and flew at Ukyo. 
	From instinct alone Ukyo managed to avoid Kuno's blows as 
the other boy came at him. Still his sandalwood eyes held a gleam of 
definite animalistic quality. Almost as if he didn't grasp what was going 
on around him. Flying forward from a particularly close evasion on 
Ukyo's part Kuno's bokken hit a latch releasing the door it had held 
shut.
	 As this occurred Sasuke paled visibly. "Master Kuno!" 
Sasuke cried loudly in panicked tones. "Get away from that door 
quickly!" 
	"You dare give me orders Sasuke? I should---" 
	The rest of Kuno's sentence was muffled as he stepped into 
the chest of a large tiger in front of him. Backing away his eyes 
widened in terror and Kuno released a loud scream of fear then 
dashed behind Ukyo who was frozen. 
	Staring at the tiger who was releasing a low growl Ukyo felt 
his heart stop as several cats jumped on him. Surrounded by his 
hundreds of worst fear and a creature that was an amplified version of 
them Ukyo felt himself lose hold of what little humanity he had left. 
Staring into the predatory glare of the tiger before him Ukyo began 
responding to it  instinctively. His mind shifted and changed until only 
one thought remained in his now animalistic mind.
	Challenge. This other cat before him was challenging him with 
his superior stance. He must answer this challenge in a match if he is to 
prove his dominance. This was his territory and the silly humans that 
remained around it were his prey and his friends. This new arrival 
would not take that from him. So Ukyo released a high pitched howl 
answering this official challenge from the tiger who narrowed green 
eyes in surprised speculation as Ukyo cat crouched into an offensive 
stance to prepare for the fight to come.

	"Kasumi my dear," called Genma. "How are those therapy 
sessions with Ukyo going?"
	Looking up from her herbal remedy booklet Kasumi replied, 
"Good. Ukyo is doing much better and can get close to C-chan 
without letting her fear take over. In fact," Kasumi smiled. "I think 
she's becoming quite fond of C-chan."
	Upon hearing her name the pink and cream colored cat 
looked up from her fight with a white tomcat. In a quick gesture she 
swiped at him with her claws causing the tomcat to run away fearfully. 
Bounding over to Kasumi she looked at the eldest Tendo sister with 
inquisitive eyes. 
	"Hear me say your name?" questioned Kasumi softly. "I was 
just telling Ojisama how you were getting along with Ukyo better these 
days."
	"Mew!" agreed C-chan happily wearing a wide smile of 
pleasure.
	Smiling at this Kasumi scratched her behind the ears and 
murmured, "Ranma is right. It's almost like you're human you're so 
smart." 
	A loud snap filled the air and Kasumi shifted her gaze to see 
Genma holding a broken toothpick in his hand. Staring at it nervously 
he said lowly, "This is a bad omen." Directing his gaze towards the sky 
he muttered, "Something must be wrong with the girl." Rising to his feet 
Genma dashed out of the room quickly leaving Kasumi alone with C-
chan.
	"Oh my," Kasumi said, watching him leave. "I wonder what 
that was about."
	"Mew..." C-chan responded trailing off. 
	It was then that Genma burst through the sitting room and past 
them carrying a large knapsack that was close to overflowing. Passing 
Kasumi he called loudly, "I'm going to the school Kasumi! Something 
bad is happening to the girl, I can feel it in my bones." 
	Kasumi blinked at this and his departure before rising to her 
feet saying with determination, "Ukyo is under my care. If she's in 
danger I should help too." 
	Running after Genma she barely noticed as C-chan followed 
her hasty pursuit. Exiting the dojo Kasumi took in the abandoned form 
of a broom and figured her Father had taken off after Genma as well. 
Whatever it was that Genma sensed it had to be serious because he 
had left in the process of eating his lunch. An event that was never 
disturbed.
 
	"What's taking so long?" Sakura asked with some degree of 
irritation. "It never takes Ucchan more than a minute to beat up Kuno."
	"I dunno," said Ranma. Leaping onto the stage he stuck his 
head into the trapdoor and called in concern, "Are you guys all right?"
	His only answer was a high pitched howl which echoed 
throughout the gym causing an eerie effect that made many shiver at 
the sound. Suddenly the stage burst apart and a tower of several 
hundred cats flew out of the rubble. In this mass of felines resided the 
unconscious figures of Kuno and Sasuke. Avoiding this confusion 
Ranma leapt from the now destroyed stage next to Nabiki and Sakura 
in the crowd of Furinkan students. Blue eyes searched for the form of 
his iinazuke and finally found him flying through the air in a feral fury 
while pursuing a large Bengal tiger.
	"Ucchan?" breathed Ranma slowly. 
	"Oh crap," muttered Sakura. Tugging Ranma's elbow she said 
to the shocked boy, "We've gotta get out of the way Ranma. That isn't 
our Ucchan. She's under the influence of the Nekoken training now."
	Unaware of Ranma or anything else other than his fight with 
the tiger Ukyo cat landed smoothly on all fours. Sandalwood eyes 
shifted in tactical viciousness searching for their prey. They finally 
locked on the figure of the tiger who was lying on top of Kuno 
dumbstruck as to how this puny challenger had beaten him. Releasing 
a high pitched howl  Ukyo cat pounced through the air with a look of 
certain gleeful madness floating in his gaze.
	Hastily shoving the suffocating form of the tiger off his body 
Kuno was met with the sight of Ukyo cat coming towards him. 
Releasing a loud scream of terror Kuno closed his eyes in anticipation 
of the upcoming death he had seen floating in the inhuman eyes of his 
opponent. 
	"Master Kuno!" shouted Sasuke loudly.
	 Reaching deep into his pockets Sasuke retrieved the last bit 
of fish sausage. Throwing it into the air Sasuke sighed in relief as Ukyo 
cat landed, screeching to a halt, before turning and bounding after the 
fish sausage which had flown out the window. Turning to his employer 
Sasuke saw that Kuno was breathing heavily and clutching to his 
chest. Going to his side Sasuke congratulated himself inwardly. He had 
saved his Master's life. Surely he would be rewarded for such a 
courageous deed. 
	Meanwhile Ranma escaped Sakura's hold and  jumped out of 
the window after his iinazuke. Sighing deeply Sakura muttered to 
herself while following, "I really wish she'd let me beat up Genma at 
least once for doing this to her." 

	Ignoring the large crowd of Furinkan students surrounding him 
Ranma shouted, "Ucchan! C'mon Ucchan! It's me Ranma! Speak to 
me!" 
	His iinazuke didn't seem to hear his pleas and released a 
contented meow then continued to claw at the tree bark pealing it 
back in layers. 
	"Ukyo can't hear you," responded Sakura in sympathetic 
tones. "The Nekoken training has taken control and all that's left of her 
mind is a cat."
	Blazing blue eyes met green ones. "Can't we do anything for 
her?" Ranma begged. "We can't just leave her like this!"
	"There has to be some solution," Nabiki added as she 
emerged from the mass of students at their side. 
	Gazing thoughtfully up at Ukyo cat who was still clawing at the 
tree bark happily Sakura opened her mouth to reply but was cut off by 
Genma proclaiming, "Of course there's a solution!" The three stared at 
him with wide eyes and he asked, "You were expecting someone 
else?"
	"Father," began Ranma warily. "Why are you here?"
	Flinching at his son's tone of voice Genma replied, "I sensed 
something was wrong with the girl."
	"Oh my," Kasumi exclaimed softly. "Ukyo is acting like a giant 
kitty cat."
	"So it would seem Kasumi," said Soun solemnly. Turning his 
gaze to Genma he continued, "You said you had a plan for this 
Saotome?"
	 Feeling something rubbing against his leg Ranma looked down 
at the figure of C-chan below him. "Hey girl," he said fondly. "Did you 
follow them here?" Lifting his pet into his arms Ranma stroked her fur 
murmuring, "Something is wrong with Ucchan and I dunno how to help 
her." Looking down into thoughtful scarlet eyes he questioned, "Do 
you have any ideas?" On this C-chan only stared at him with sad eyes 
and Ranma sighed deeply then moved his gaze back towards his 
iinazuke who remained perched in the tree high above their heads. 
	"I don't understand," said Kasumi while studying Ukyo cat. 
"She was doing so well in our therapy sessions why would this happen 
now?"
	"One word," said Nabiki dryly. "Kuno. Apparently he had 
Sasuke rig the gym basement so it would be full of starving cats. 
Somehow he found out about Ukyo's fear of cats and decided to use 
it against her male half."
	"No matter!" Genma proclaimed, whipping the large knapsack 
off his back. "I have the solution to all our problems right here." 
Turning to the others Genma held up his large knapsack. "When 
Ukyo's acute fear of cats goes beyond a certain point the only way she 
can deal with it is to become a cat herself. We all know that by now 
but there is also a way to bring her out of that state. Yes," Genma said 
solemnly pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. "Only one 
person could calm the girl down when she was like this. The Master."
	Hearing this Soun turned a sickly color and grabbed his 
friend's shoulders. Shaking Genma he shouted, "Saotome! Don't tell 
me you mean to--!"
	Nodding his head seriously Genma stated firmly, "I must 
Tendo. No sacrifice is too great for the chosen heir to the Anything 
Goes school of martial arts. For Ukyo, and Ukyo alone, I will become 
the evil that is the Master." 
	In a flash of movement Genma changed his appearance and 
was now wearing a purple ninja outfit with a handkerchief tied around 
his mouth. The white bandanna he wore was covered with a bald wig 
and he held a long thin pipe in his hands. Cackling strangely he leapt 
through the air to land on the same tree branch as Ukyo cat. Feeling 
the slight shift in weight Ukyo cat jumped now facing Genma. 
	Approaching Ukyo cat slowly Genma called gleefully, "Li'l 
Ukyo sweetie! It's me Gramps! Let's train by having a good old 
fashioned panty raid!" 
	Ukyo cat studied Genma carefully then released a low hiss. 
This wasn't the human he was so fond of, the one who saved him in 
the beginning. No, this was the one who had caused him great pain. 
He knew it by his smell and stance. And this puny person dared think 
he could fool him? With his feline intelligence? Releasing a howl of 
outrage Ukyo cat flew at Genma his hands now in the formation of 
claws as he attack his Sensei. Genma screamed loudly in pain and fear 
before going flying off the tree branch and into the thick woods below. 
Ukyo cat sniffed in some satisfaction at this then focused on the 
humans gathered below. Narrowing his gaze again Ukyo cat hissed a 
low vicious warning at them telling them not to try something like that 
again. 
	Staring at the trail of girls panties floating through the air 
towards where Genma had landed Soun said sheepishly, "So it wasn't 
his best idea."
	"Why did he have girls panties?" Kasumi questioned 
perplexed.
	"Never mind that," stated Sakura shaking her chocolate brown 
head. "We have to get Ucchan down soon. She's getting worse." 
	"Hey!" cried Ranma in surprise as C-chan leapt from his grasp 
to bound high into the air towards the floating trail of panties that 
Genma had left. In a flash the cat was back in his arms holding a small 
piece of catnip in her teeth that had apparently been in Genma's 
knapsack along with lingerie. 
	"Mew!" C-chan called emphatically as she raised her gaze 
towards Ukyo cat who was now stalking in a predatory motion on the 
tree branch above. 
	"That's it," Ranma said excitedly. "All cats like catnip don't 
they? Maybe if we get Ucchan to eat some she'll calm down." Smiling 
widely he scratched C-chan under the chin affectionately. "Good girl, 
you came up with a solution!" On this compliment his pet beamed and 
began purring happily. 
	"So it seems," said Nabiki slowly. Hazel eyes studied Ukyo 
cat like a hawk. "But how are we supposed to get the catnip up there 
in the first place?"
	Wandering away from the group Sakura snatched an 
unconscious Genma's knapsack from him then dumped out all the 
lingerie over his head to leave only the catnip inside. Approaching 
them she paused to borrow a nearby archer's bow and arrow. "Viola," 
Sakura said grinning. "Instantly drugged Ukyo." 
	Observing as Sakura moved into position preparing to fire the 
knapsack full of catnip at Ukyo cat Kasumi warned softly, "Be careful 
Sakura and focus your aim towards the tree branch and not Ukyo. I 
don't think she'll take any hint of aggression well." 
	"Gotcha," assured Sakura confidently. Pulling back the bow 
string she fired the knapsack through the air in a clean motion. 
	From his haven high above Ukyo cat cocked his head to one 
side watching keenly as the humans below scurried about. 
Sandalwood eyes narrowed decisively as one of them pointed 
something at him. As this latest threat moved towards him quickly 
Ukyo cat stealthily pounced into the air to intercept his new attacker. 
In a swift slashing movement his hand turned a claw ripped apart the 
knapsack to sends several hundred pieces of catnip flying into the air 
with him. Disconcerted by all this interference Ukyo cat lost his 
balance mid air and releasing a high pitched howl of desperation he fell 
clumsily to the ground. 
	Immediately Ukyo cat leapt to his feet as instincts instructed. 
Turning his head slowly he studied the group of humans who dared 
initiate such action against him. It was then that a familiar voice met his 
ears and sent a calming wave of contentment through him. 
Sandalwood eyes studied this human closely. This person continued 
calling to Ukyo cat and he wondered why they weren't afraid as were 
all the others. Then it hit him. This was his special person! His and his 
alone! This one belonged to him, that was why he wasn't afraid, he 
wanted Ukyo cat's attention. He was calling out for it even as Ukyo 
cat was thinking. 
	Releasing a happy howl of excitement Ukyo cat flew into the 
air in a predatory leap and before Ranma knew what was happening 
he had toppled to the ground with his iinazuke purring contentedly in 
his lap. When Ranma had called out to Ukyo he hoped to bring him 
back to reality and his human side but instead he'd brought about his 
animalistic sense of ownership. Sealing Ukyo cat's desire to be with 
the one he designated as solely his own leaving Ranma in the position 
he was currently in now.
	"Ucchan..." whispered Ranma barely audible as Ukyo cat 
tucked himself into a tiny ball seemingly going to sleep. Standing on his 
shoulder C-chan tilted her head curiously and released a inquiring 
meow. 
	"Well," Nabiki said, smirking at the scene of Ranma being 
nuzzled by a male Ukyo cat. "Isn't this a cozy scene."
	Suddenly snapping into wakefulness Genma rushed forward 
and screamed on seeing the scene before him. "Get off him girl! This 
isn't right behavior in that form! Nodoka promised me that she'd raise 
Ranma to be a man amongst men and you're ruining it!!" As he yelled 
this Genma made an attempt to pull Ukyo cat off of Ranma's lap. 
	Wearing a dark expression Ranma grabbed Genma's wrist 
and squeezed it hard. "Don't Father," he hissed dangerously. "Don't 
you dare touch Ucchan. This is all your fault, so you don't have the 
right to give her orders."
	"But Ranma look at him!" Genma cried, noting the look of 
surprise in blue eyes. "Yes. Him," emphasized Genma thinking he was 
reaching his son. "That isn't the girl you're going to marry you're 
holding. That's another boy and I hope you know how it makes you 
look." 
	Hearing the underlining tone of disgust Ranma directed his 
cobalt gaze to the surrounding Furinkan students. The boys were 
staring at him with wide eyes that reflected a combination of curiosity 
and nausea. A look some of the girls shared but mainly they were 
bursting into tears wailing about two of the most handsome boys in 
school being wasted. Turning his gaze back to his Father he saw the 
look of triumph that floated there. 
	Pushing Genma's hand off his arm Ranma said resolutely, "I 
don't care! I love Ucchan and I'm not going to leave her when she 
needs me! It doesn't matter to me what everybody thinks!" 
	This vehement statement raised the attention of the dozing 
Ukyo cat who tilted his head up curiously. Why was his human so 
upset? Shifting his gaze Ukyo cat saw that he was confronting the 
stupid human from before. The one that had caused him so much pain 
in his youth. Of course! Ukyo cat had an epiphany. His human was 
defending his honor against the shameless one. A wave of pure 
happiness invaded his system and Ukyo cat purred in low rumbling 
tones. Tilting  his head upwards he met his human's gaze. Forming a 
tiny smile Ukyo cat pressed his lips against his human's to show his 
pleasure in being cared for this way. Lowering his head Ukyo cat 
curled back into his former sleeping position while continue to purr 
happily. Totally confident that he would be safe with his human. 
	Blinking in shock Ranma lightly traced his lips with his 
fingertips. Staring at the purring form of his iinazuke blue eyes began to 
darken as the comments of his classmates met Ranma's ears. The 
screams from the girls, the taunts from the boys. None of them 
understood. This was his Ucchan. His iinazuke. The only person he'd 
ever loved. It didn't matter what form she took. Inside it was still 
Ucchan. 
	Raising his gaze Ranma glared at all those who dared insult the 
purity of Ukyo cat's gesture of love and screamed in loud outrage, 
"Shut up!! All of you just shut up! Just leave me and Ucchan alone!!" 
Jumping to his feet Ranma clutched Ukyo cat against his chest and ran 
away cradling the other boy in his arms. 
	The crowd of students and the gathered residents of the 
Tendo dojo were silent as they observed the departing figure of 
Ranma and that of his tiny pink and cream colored cat who was 
following closely behind him. 

	Blearily sandalwood eyes opened and Ukyo sat up in bed to 
focus on his surroundings. He was alone in his room with the door to it 
slightly ajar. Making it look as if someone had left in a hurry. A soft 
patter met his ears and Ukyo looked up to see the figure of C-chan 
moving cautiously into his room. 
	"C-chan?" Ukyo questioned softly. Rubbing his eyes wearily 
he muttered, "What the hell happened to me? The last thing I 
remember is falling into that pit with Kuno..."
	"Mew?" inquired C-chan curiously. Feeling it was safe she 
jumped forward to stand next to Ukyo on the mattress. Almost as if 
she was guarding him. Tilting her pink head to one side she gazed 
inquisitively at Ukyo.
	"Yeah," chuckled Ukyo. "I remember that for sure. Kuno 
challenged my boy half again... I wish that jackass would just find out 
about my curse already. In fact," Ukyo stretched his sore back 
muscles. "It would be a lot easier if everybody at Furinkan would just 
figure it out already. I'm getting sick of this ponytailed boy crap and all 
those nutty girls chasing after my boy side."
	Hearing this C-chan released a low hiss and Ukyo raised an 
eyebrow. "You don't like that either do you girl? Me neither. It gets 
pretty annoying... especially since those girls don't know the first thing 
about me. Not like Ranchan." Thinking of his iinazuke he sighed. 
"Ranchan knows the real me. I don't think I've been closer to anyone 
in my life. Well, there's the Master but it isn't the same thing." Directing 
his sandalwood gaze to C-chan he continued, "Every time I look at 
you I think of Shampoo. I suppose that's what she wanted when she 
sent you to us." Looking around the room Ukyo finally rested his gaze 
back on C-chan. Leaning down he whispered, "Don't tell anyone but I 
miss her." 
	"Mew?" C-chan questioned with wide eyes. 
	Laughing at the disbelief he saw in scarlet eyes Ukyo 
responded, "Yeah well. Don't ask me to explain it but there's 
something about her. The Kami knows she has a great body. I mean, 
I've traveled all over and I haven't ever seen a girl that beautiful." C-
chan was now watching Ukyo carefully as he continued talking. "Her 
muscles are pure sinew. When I first saw her fight I was just sucked in 
by her movements. It was like magic. To tell you the truth girl, I didn't 
really want to fight her." Chuckling to himself Ukyo confessed, "I 
wanted to kiss her. I just didn't know it... it was a subconscious thing 
but wooh. Is she good looking." Sighing Ukyo murmured, "But the 
connection I feel with Shampoo is more than physical. In a way she 
reminds me a lot of myself before I met Ranchan." Ukyo sighed again. 
"I was so lonely back then. Even when I went to school with Sakura 
and Ryoga. Knowing them made things a bit easier but it was always 
like a piece of myself was missing. An ache was always in my heart." 
Smiling wistfully he said, "When I'm with Ranma that ache goes away 
and I feel at peace. I think that's what Shampoo was searching for 
when she was chasing after us both to marry her. She wanted to ease 
her loneliness. I know how hard it is to be alone. To not have anyone 
understand and care for you. That's why I really wish she'd come 
back. So I could make things right." He averted his eyes to study the 
ceiling saying, "I'm sort of thinking of going to China and finding her if 
she doesn't return soon. It doesn't feel right to leave things as they are. 
I don't like to leave things unsettled. Plus..." Ukyo looked sheepish as 
he stared at C-chan. "I do miss her." 
	The pink and cream colored cat studied Ukyo with teary eyes 
before closing them. In a gesture of affection and love she rubbed her 
head against the side of his chest. Ukyo froze at first then relaxed and 
smiled feeling totally at ease. 
	Totally at ease until a scream pierced the air and Ranma 
rushed into the room after dropping the tea pot he held in a loud 
clatter. Dashing across the room Ranma clutched C-chan against his 
chest saying, "I told you to stay in my room girl! Why didn't you 
listen?" Ukyo watched with some confusion as he rushed out of the 
room holding C-chan tightly. When he returned Ranma looked 
distraught. Clasping Ukyo by the shoulders he bore his concerned blue 
gaze into him. "Are you okay Ucchan? I put her in my room, honest I 
did! I don't know how she got out! I'm sorry," Ranma said desperately 
wringing his hands. "I can't believe I let this happen, especially after 
what you just went through."
	"What I just went through?" asked Ukyo in confusion. 
"What're you talking about?" Swinging his legs over the side of his bed 
Ukyo picked up the toppled tea kettle and smiled on finding some hot 
water still remained inside of it. Pouring it over his head Ukyo quickly 
shifted back into her natural girl form. Setting the tea kettle down on 
the dresser Kasumi had given her Ukyo walked towards her iinazuke. 
"Can you tell me what happened Ranchan? What are we doing back 
home?"
	"You mean you don't remember?" Ranma queried as she sat 
next to him on the bed. "Kuno found out about your phobia and 
trapped you in the gym basement with hundreds of hungry cats. You 
destroyed the stage in the process of fighting a Bengal tiger."
	"A tiger?" Ukyo breathed incredulously. Rubbing her forehead 
she murmured, "The Nekoken training must've taken over. I became 
an animal..." Sandalwood eyes drifted away from her iinazuke's 
handsome face. "Ranchan," Ukyo said carefully, raising her gaze. 
"Who brought me out of that state? How did I get home?"
	Blinking Ranma stammered, "W-what? I dunno what you 
mean Ucchan." 
	Running her fingers through thick oak brown hair Ukyo 
replied, "It's just that I never come out of my Nekoken influenced state 
on my own. I've always been brought out of it by another person. 
Most of my life it's been the Master. When we were on our training 
journey, no matter his distance from me, he would always appear 
when the Nekoken took control. But he's not here now." Ukyo sighed 
sadly on this last comment. Directing her gaze at Ranma she asked, 
"So who brought me back?"
	Downcasting his stare Ranma said softly, "Me." 
	"You?" questioned Ukyo. His only reply was a curt nod and 
Ukyo pondered this murmuring, "I should've known. Besides the 
Master you're the one I trust most in this world Ranchan." Tipping her 
head to gaze into cobalt eyes Ukyo asked softly, "Did I kiss you?"
	At this question Ranma turned bright red and Ukyo sighed 
deeply. "I figured," she muttered. Taking his hand in her own she 
continued, "I'm sorry Ranchan but apparently it's something I do in my 
Nekoken state to the people I'm fond of." Casting her eyes away she 
sighed again. "Great. Now the whole school is going to be talking 
about us." Her ears caught the quiet mumbling of her iinazuke. Turning 
back to Ranma she asked gently, "Did you say something?"
	Coughing Ranma scratched his cheek looking quite 
uncomfortable. "I said they probably think I'm yaoi now or something. 
I mean, Father yelled at me to let go of you when you thought you 
were a cat but I couldn't... you just seemed so helpless Ucchan. And 
you never seem helpless." 
	"Ranchan," whispered Ukyo. Touching the planes of his face 
she smiled tenderly at him. "That's so sweet." 
	"Yeah well," Ranma said shyly. "You're my iinazuke. I have to 
take care of you don't I? No matter what your form. It doesn't really 
matter much to me what they think Ucchan. I know who and what I 
am. That's all that matters." 
	Resting her head on his shoulder Ukyo leaned into his 
embrace and Ranma wrapped his arms around her thin waist. "But it 
matters to me Ranma," she sighed. "I don't want people saying nasty 
things about you." Pulling back her sandalwood eyes gleamed with 
determination. "And I'm going to fix it. Just leave everything to me." 
	"How?" asked Ranma curiously. 
	"I don't know," replied Ukyo wryly. "But just you wait. I'll fix 
it. I'm a woman of my word." 
	Laughing softly Ranma shook his head. Smiling blue eyes met 
her gaze as he said, "I really do love you."
	"Good," said Ukyo sensuously. "Because the sentiment is very 
much returned." 
	The couple were leaning in for a passionate kiss when an 
irritated meow met their ears. Shifting their attention to the doorway 
they saw the fuming figure of C-chan stalking into the room. She 
stopped in front of the bed and stared hard at the pair before leaping 
in between them. 
	"Oh," said Ranma taking her into his lap while stroking her 
head gently. "I think she's mad at us for ignoring her." Clucking C-chan 
under her chin Ranma murmured, "I'm sorry for reacting like that 
earlier girl but I thought you might scare Ukyo again." 
	Scarlet eyes clinically studied the now female Ukyo before 
focusing on Ranma. Contemplating this explanation C-chan narrowed 
her eyes then moved to leap onto Ukyo's lap. At this gesture Ranma's 
blue eyes widened in panic and he started to grab for his pet when 
Ukyo said, "It's all right Ranchan. For some reason I'm fine around C-
chan." 
	Blinking in wonderment Ranma cried, "Then Kasumi's therapy 
sessions are really working! Only..." He formed a baffled expression. 
"Why weren't you able to control your fear at school?"
	A memory of the howls of hundreds of starving cats echoed in 
her mind from the Nekoken training and Ukyo closed her eyes and 
thought of that summer home from her childhood to erase this image. 
Controlling her breathing as she entered a calm state Ukyo 
unconsciously reached her hand out to pet C-chan. Upon receiving 
this gentle affection the cat purred in low satisfaction and Ukyo smiled. 
Meeting her iinazuke's surprised gaze she offered, "I think it has to do 
with numbers. There's only one of C-chan and there were hundreds of 
those creatures in the basement. Besides," Ukyo murmured gazing at 
their pet who was now nuzzling her hand. "C-chan isn't exactly your 
average animal. She's a lot smarter, that helps calm my fears." 
	"She's smarter than the average cat," smirked Ranma and 
Ukyo groaned at the bad joke. "Sorry," Ranma said sheepishly. 
Studying his iinazuke interacting with their pet he theorized, "Maybe it 
also has to do with the fact that you want so badly to be comfortable 
with C-chan since she's a present from Shampoo." 
	"You're probably right," Ukyo replied. Rubbing the cat on her 
belly Ukyo continued thoughtfully, "I wouldn't dismiss the fact that all 
my sessions have only involved C-chan so far. I bet that has something 
to do with my Nekoken training ignoring her presence." 
	There was a long pause as Ranma shifted uncomfortably. 
"Uhm.." he began slowly. "About Shampoo." 
	"What about her?" Ukyo asked unaware of C-chan lifting her 
ears keenly in the air. 
	"I just wanted to say," Ranma said shakily. "That when she 
comes back... if you want to look into that three way marriage thing. I 
guess we can consider it. I mean," he now looked incredibly 
uncomfortable. "If it's the only peaceful way to resolve it I'm willing..." 
Groaning loudly Ranma tugged at his wild black bangs. "This isn't 
coming out right!" Sighing he dropped his head before slowly lifting it 
and locking his gaze with Ukyo's. "What I mean to say is that no 
matter what happens I'm with you Ucchan. It's me and you all the 
way. Until the end." 
	Smiling softly Ukyo cupped his face tenderly in her hands and 
questioned teasingly, "Till death do us part?"
	Returning the smile Ranma replied, "I guess you could say 
that." 
	"I did say that," murmured Ukyo ardently leaning forward until 
her breath was on his own. "But what do you say?" 
	Grabbing her hips Ranma pulled her forward as their lips met 
in a passionate kiss. Saying against her lips, "I do." 
	This sweet moment seemed timeless until the high pitched howl 
of C-chan interrupted their embrace. The pink and cream colored cat 
had the unfortunate luck to be trapped between the two as they sought 
to merge their bodies in their desire to be physically closer. Jumping 
backwards the couple took in the frazzled form of C-chan whose fur 
was standing on end while wearing a vexed expression on her feline 
features. Staring at the couple she twitched her tail high in the air 
before leaping off the bed. 
	"We're sorry C-chan!" called Ranma who was laughing 
without helping it. Next to him Ukyo was leaning over his shoulder, 
portraying the same useless battle against the onslaught of laughter 
rising in her system. 
	"We didn't mean to squish you," offered Ukyo wiping away 
the tears that accompanied her roars of laughter.
	Halting at the doorway to Ukyo's room C-chan turned around 
and gave an indignant, "Mew!" Then stalked away with her tail 
swishing in certain agitation. 
	Watching this Ukyo and Ranma were silent for a moment 
before bursting into an even louder fit of laughter. Clinging to one 
another the couple shared in their conjoined joy and all their problems 
of the present were forgotten.

	"I can't believe Ranma said that to his Father," said Akane in 
certain amazement.
	She along with Ryoga, Sakura, and Nabiki were making their 
way home after school. They had finished the regular school day but 
had not been able to discuss the events involving Ukyo and her 
morning duel. Mainly due to the fact that Ryoga had spent most of the 
day in the infirmary for having ingested toxic chemicals. Apparently 
Akane had recruited the Chemistry club in making some experimental 
drugs to help Ryoga balance on ice. The drugs had a less than pleasing 
effect on his immune system. 
	 "I can't believe Ukyo kissed Ranma as a guy," said Ryoga 
making a face. 
	Hitting the back of Ryoga's head Sakura admonished, "You 
weren't there Ryochan. It was actually kind of sweet."
	"Sweet?" Ryoga muttered to himself turning a sickly shade of 
green. "I think I need to go back to the infirmary." 
	Sakura was about to hit Ryoga again when Nabiki beat her to 
it. "Stop being such a baby," drawled Nabiki. "These are modern 
times. I don't see you complaining about Sakura's romantic 
preferences." 
	"That's different!" cried Ryoga indignantly. 
	"Oh?" Sakura arched an eyebrow. "How's that?"
	Meeting the glares of both Sakura and Nabiki he gave his 
nervous high pitched laugh then turned to Akane for help only to find 
her wearing the same expression. Sighing loudly Ryoga slumped his 
shoulders and said dourly, "Okay. I give up. There's no difference." 
	"That's my boy," said Sakura slapping him on the back. Giving 
him a friendly jab to the ribs she chuckled before moving on. "But I 
wouldn't worry too much about it. Ukyo only kissed Ranma as a boy 
because she thought she was a cat under the Nekoken influence." 
	Gaping at the disappearing figures of the three girls Ryoga 
shouted loudly, "Why didn't you tell me that in the first place?!" 
	Rolling her eyes Akane giggled. "Because it's more fun to play 
with you Ryochan," she murmured in teasing tones while clutching to 
Ryoga's arm and leaning against him. At this gesture the lost boy's hair 
stood on end and he wore a face of complete bliss.
	Used to this reaction on the part of Ryoga the youngest Tendo 
turned to her companions. "We're heading to the rink to practice. Do 
you two want to come and watch? We could use the pointers." 
	"Got that right," drawled Nabiki. She immediately changed 
into a more sympathetic face on receiving a harsh glare from Akane. 
"Heh.." Nabiki laughed slightly. "I'd love to come and watch the 
upcoming disaster but I'm afraid I have business to tend to. After all, if 
you want to spend all of tomorrow training I'm going to have to finish 
negotiations with the rink manager to arrange renting it," Nabiki 
reminded them about the favor they had asked of her.
	Shrugging Akane looked at Sakura. "How about you? We can 
call Dachi when we get there and she could join us.  Afterwards the 
four of us could go to the movies." 
	"Sounds good to me," conceded Sakura. "As long as you and 
Dachi don't make me see another romantic movie."
	Snapping out of his Akane induced coma Ryoga chimed in 
laughing hysterically, "I like romances!"
	Hearing this Akane beamed widely. Clutching to his arm and 
she smirked at Sakura. "I guess you're outvoted. Ryochan likes seeing 
romantic movies. It's three against one because you know how much 
Dachi and I love romance."
	Groaning Sakura glared at her clueless best friend while 
muttering under her breath, "Sell out."
	"As amusing as this little quarrel between friends is I'm afraid 
this is the end of the line for me," said Nabiki drolly. Dashing down the 
short street that was the quickest way back to the dojo she gave them 
a jaunty wave before disappearing. Stopping to adjust the bandoleer 
and battle spatula she wore. Nabiki had taken the weapons out of 
Ukyo's locker at school wanting to return them to the chef on arriving 
home and they didn't fit her form correctly. 
	They watched Nabiki exit for a moment then Akane turned 
her attention to both Ryoga and Sakura as she joined their hands, 
swinging them back and forth cheerily. 
	"Shall we go?" Akane asked happily.
	The response to this was a dumb nod on the part of Ryoga 
who was mesmerized by Akane's beauty and an exasperated groan 
from Sakura on observing his behavior. Making their way towards the 
ice rink Sakura couldn't wait to see Kodachi so she could escape from 
the couple. If there was one thing Sakura couldn't stand it was 
lovestruck fools who lacked the courage to tell the object of their 
affections how they really feel. And if anyone qualified for this category 
it was both Ryoga and Akane. Averting glittering green eyes she took 
them in as they stole glances at one another when the other thought 
they weren't looking. It was getting ridiculous if they didn't confess 
their feelings for each other soon Sakura was sure she would go 
insane. Watching as Ryoga turned bright red upon Akane brushing up 
against his arm Sakura prayed for the speedy arrival of her girlfriend. 
Even if it meant having to see another sappy romance movie. 

	"Oh dear," said Kasumi softly. 
	She was in the dojo training room with Ukyo who sat across 
from her wearing a worried expression and holding C-chan in her lap. 
Ukyo and Ranma had went their separate ways when they realized the 
others were home. Ukyo going to Kasumi asking why their therapy 
sessions had not helped her in the situation with Kuno that afternoon. 
While Ranma sought out his parents to talk about his actions that 
afternoon and the supposed promise Nodoka made to Genma about 
raising Ranma to be a man amongst men. 
	Shaking her head Kasumi murmured, "I was afraid that this 
might happen but the chances were so slim I was sure it could be 
avoided."
	"What could...? Kasumi, what's going on?" Ukyo asked 
perplexed. "How come the Nekoken took control of me if I'm doing 
so well in our sessions? Look," she paused to gesture at C-chan. "I 
can even pet C-chan without becoming frozen by my fear." 
	Sighing Kasumi replied, "That's just it Ukyo. It seems that my 
therapy sessions have worked a little too well. Now you're cured of 
your phobia--"
	Hearing the word cure Ukyo whooped loudly and leapt to her 
feet and began doing a silly dance with C-chan. Kasumi watched this 
and wondered why the cat seemed so happy. Most pets would be 
hostile at being spun about that way. Dismissing it Kasumi coughed to 
catch Ukyo's attention. Ceasing her happy dance Ukyo gazed at 
Kasumi who looked sympathetic.
	"As I said. I've cured your phobia but only when it involves C-
chan. Apparently your fear of cats is still present because in your 
sessions I made the mistake of only using C-chan as the focus for your 
fear." Sighing again Kasumi continued warily, "But your phobia still 
applies to any feline other than C-chan. To put it simply, she is the only 
cat that won't reduce you to your fear inspired Nekoken state. I'm 
sorry." Kasumi hung her head low. "I've failed you."  
	Considering this Ukyo paused then knelt next to Kasumi. 
Setting C-chan down softly she clasped the older girl's shoulder. 
"Don't say that Kasumi," she said gently. Lowering her head Ukyo met 
soft brown eyes with sandalwood ones. Offering Kasumi a cheering 
smile. "You didn't fail me at all. Before you I was completely afraid of 
any c-c-c..." Ukyo stammered, shaking her head she looked frustrated 
as she continued, "Of those furry creatures. I still can't say the word 
but because of you I'm not afraid of C-chan anymore. And when you 
really think of it that was why we started these therapy sessions. So I 
could get used to having her around." Kasumi had now lifted her head 
and saw that Ukyo was beaming at her. "And we've accomplished that 
haven't we? Which means you didn't fail at all."
	Brushing the tears forming away with the back of her hand 
Kasumi whispered, "Ukyo... thank you."
	With that the eldest Tendo sister moved forward more swiftly 
than Ukyo ever gave her credit for and pulled the chef into a tight hug. 
At first Ukyo tensed at this contact then relaxed into the loving hold. 
Kasumi was really the only Mother figure Ukyo had known. Her own 
Mother had died when she was only an infant and she spent her 
childhood traveling aimlessly with her Father with their okonomiyaki 
cart and a tent as a home. That was how she first met the Master. 
They had been traveling on a high mountain pass and stopped for a 
quick rest when the quiet sound of scraping beneath a large pile of 
boulders took their notice. Always a curious man, Kuonji Akira 
employed his martial arts training to destroy the boulders in a quest to 
discover what was making the noise. What he discovered was a large 
sake barrel tied by several hundred heavy chains buried in a deep 
cave. When he finally managed to remove them out jumped the 
Master. So grateful for being released and for the free okonomiyaki 
they made for him the Master began traveling with them aiding Akira in 
teaching a young Ukyo about the martial arts. Those were happy times 
for Ukyo but they soon ended with the death of her Father. Now, 
after so many years Ukyo felt that feeling of happiness had finally 
returned and Kasumi was a part of that. Before her no one other than 
the Master had bothered to search for a cure to the phobia that the 
Nekoken caused. And even the Master himself had given up after 
years of searching. 
	Kasumi pulled back from the hug and gave a soft embarrassed 
giggle. "I must seem silly," she murmured blushing slightly. "But I was 
so scared you would be angry with me for giving you high hopes."
	"Angry?" Ukyo blinked, tenderly wiping away a few stray 
tears from Kasumi's face. "You've got to be putting me on. It's 
impossible to be angry at you Kasumi. All you ever have in your heart 
is kindness." Rising to her feet Ukyo drew Kasumi up with her. 
	"I don't know about that," murmured Kasumi. "I have my bad 
moments just like anyone else." 
	Kneeling to allow C-chan to jump into her arms Ukyo 
chuckled. "I'm sure you do Kasumi, it's just I'll be damned if anyone 
has ever seen them." Standing up she smiled fondly at the other girl. 
"C'mon, I want to find Ranchan and see if he's throttled his folks yet 
about that man amongst men promise." 
	Sighing softly Kasumi replied, "At times parents can be more a 
trial to their children than their children to them."
	Scrunching up her nose in distaste Ukyo snorted. "I still say 
people should be tested for intelligence before they can have kids." 
	"Now Ukyo," said Kasumi wearing what could be described 
as a mischievous expression. "If that kind of law was in effect then 
Ranma wouldn't be around, would he? Certainly Genma wouldn't pass 
such an exam."
	Ukyo gawked at her companion for a moment then shook her 
head in slight amazement. Kasumi never ceased to surprise Ukyo with 
her almost biting sense of humor. In some ways it reminded her a lot of 
Nabiki. "I guess you've got me there," smirked Ukyo. "If Pops 
would've raised Ranchan no doubt he'd be dealing with the Nekoken, 
not me." 
	"The many different paths that life is able to take is something 
to consider," replied Kasumi wisely. 
 
	"Let me get this straight," Ranma said wearily, rubbing his 
forehead hoping to ease the pounding there. "You made Mom take a 
vow to raise me as a man amongst men while you were gone on your 
training journey?" Narrowing cobalt eyes he questioned suspiciously, 
"And what happens if Mom didn't meet your standards Father? We 
both commit supuku with that sword of hers?"
	The three of them were alone in the sitting room. Ranma was 
across the table from his parents. Nodoka looked more concerned for 
her son than anything. He was obviously upset about something. 
Shifting her brown eyes she gazed at her husband sure that he was 
responsible for Ranma's current condition. Genma meanwhile was 
tugging at his gi top and looked quite uncomfortable under his son's 
glare.
	 "Supuku?" Genma laughed nervously. "Never my boy! How 
could you even say such a thing?"
	"Maybe because of what you did to Ucchan by using the 
Nekoken on her." Sighing deeply Ranma said, "I don't know if I can 
trust you anymore Father. That was a really low thing to do. Especially 
to a child who was in your care."
	Immediately Genma did an impression of Soun and burst into 
a fit of tears. Leaning over the table he yanked Ranma by his school 
uniform shirt and began wailing.
	"It's not my fault boy! The Master put so much pressure on me 
to make Ukyo the best martial artist that she could be! I was only 
trying to live up to his standards!" Genma wept against his son's shirt. 
	Groaning Ranma pushed his Father away saying, "That isn't an 
excuse Father. And what about this afternoon? How you treated the 
both of us?" Shaking his head Ranma muttered, "That's the worst of 
all. Ucchan wasn't in her right mind and you yelled at her for it. And at 
me for giving her comfort." Raising his gaze Ranma stated, "I love 
Ucchan no matter what her form and you better get used to that. And 
it doesn't make me less a man. If anything it makes me more of one by 
being able to admit my feelings and be true to them." 
	"You're absolutely right Ranma," said Nodoka proudly. "It's 
quite evident to me that you're a better man than I could have ever 
hoped to raise. You never cease to exceed my expectations." Shifting 
her gaze to Genma she demanded, "Isn't that right Genma?"
	Wilting under his wife's glare Genma responded meekly, "Yes 
dear. But..."
	"But what?" asked Nodoka.
	"But he let Ukyo kiss him and they were both boys!" Genma 
cried desperately. "That isn't manly!" He was now crying profusely 
again wailing, "My son is a pervert!" 
	Sighing Nodoka met Ranma's gaze before slapping her 
husband on the back of his head. Genma immediately silenced himself 
to a few loud sniffles. 
	"That's better," Nodoka assented. Turning her eyes back to 
Ranma she questioned, "Is what he says true Ranma? Did Ukyo kiss 
you in her male form?" 
	Ranma's shoulders tensed and he said slowly, "Yeah but she 
was under the Nekoken. She thought she was a cat." 
	Taking this in slowly Nodoka studied her son carefully as she 
asked, "Did you enjoy it?"
	On this inquiry Ranma turned bright red and shouted 
indignantly, "What sort of question is that Mom?!" Calming himself 
Ranma coughed then said politely, "I'm sorry. It's just... it really isn't 
anyone's business. Ucchan is my iinazuke after all. We're supposed to 
kiss."
	"Not as boys!" interrupted Genma loudly only to be smacked 
on the back of his head again by Nodoka for his trouble.
	Scrutinizing Ranma there was a long moment as Nodoka 
contemplated everything that was said. Shifting her gaze to Genma she 
said, "Before this you were satisfied that I had raised Ranma as a man 
amongst men, correct?" 
	As a response Genma silently nodded his head. Considering 
this Nodoka stated calmly, "Then my vow is in tact. I have raised 
Ranma as a man amongst men because his actions involving Ukyo and 
the Nekoken prove it. A true man is not afraid to show his emotions 
and care for others. This Ranma has proven over and over involving 
Ukyo. And Therefore," Nodoka pronounced rising to her feet. "As of 
today I am rescinding my vow. My part in raising Ranma is finished, 
from now on he chooses his own path." Walking out of the sitting 
room she said to her husband, "And if you have a problem with that 
Genma we can always replay that challenge you made against me so 
many years ago."
	On this statement Genma gulped visibly and looked very 
anxious. Alone with Ranma he offered his son a wide nervous smile. 
Jumping suddenly to his feet he slapped Ranma several times on the 
shoulder saying, "No hard feelings son! I was only doing what I 
thought was best for you." Pausing Genma formed a serious 
expression and said lowly, "You're my boy no matter what. Even if 
you are a pervert." 
	Before Ranma could respond a battle spatula came pounding 
down on Genma's hand leaving him flattened on the ground. Raising 
blue eyes Ranma grinned on seeing the form of Ukyo, who had C-
chan riding on her shoulder, and was followed by Nabiki. 
	"Good thing Nabchan brought this home for me," said Ukyo 
dryly. "Because there's no way I'd want to miss hitting you for this 
one." 
	Rubbing his head Genma grumbled, "What'd you do that for 
girl? You're the one who was molesting my boy in your male form and 
caused this whole mess."
	"And you're the one who forced the Nekoken training on me 
that caused it!" shouted Ukyo. "And don't go calling Ranchan a 
pervert because you know he isn't."
	"Oh?" Genma raised an eyebrow. "How do I know you 
haven't corrupted him in some way?"
	"What?!" Ukyo screamed, pulling back her battle spatula she 
prepared to hit him again. As she did this C-chan leapt off her 
shoulder to land on the table. "You insensitive jerk! Me having this 
curse and phobia is all your fault!"
	The okonomiyaki chef took several wide swings at her Sensei 
who evaded nimbly before dashing out of the room and into the yard. 
Snarling Ukyo followed him shouting, "Get your fanny back here you 
stupid old man!" 
	Watching as the pair disappeared over the high wall fighting 
each other Ranma and Nabiki wore similar amused faces. Sitting next 
to the pigtailed boy Nabiki inquired, "And how are we going to deal 
with the rumors of your newfound sexual preference on campus? The 
whole school is buzzing you realize." 
	Ranma sighed heavily as he lifted C-chan to hold her in his 
arms. Falling on his back he wound limber fingers in thick black hair at 
the nape of his neck. "I'm not sure of what to do Nabiki," said Ranma 
slowly. "I'd be lying if I said it didn't bother me that people think I'm 
yaoi but I don't regret what I did." Blue eyes locked with hazel ones. 
"If I turned away from Ucchan when she was like that I'd be rejecting 
her for my own selfish reasons. Like worrying about what other 
people think. I don't ever want to do that. Of course," he lamented, 
scratching C-chan on her stomach, who was purring happily from the 
attention. "Now I have to deal with all the rumors you were talking 
about. Ucchan said she'll think of some way to fix it but I dunno how 
she can."
	 Forming a thoroughly wicked smile Nabiki purred, "I think I 
might be able to come up with something." 
	Immediately Ranma shot up into a sitting position sending C-
chan flying forward to give him an evil eye which he didn't notice in his 
excitement. "Really Nabiki?? Could you really help us out?" he 
questioned rapidly.
	Rising to her feet Nabiki smoothed her dress and replied 
easily, "Naturally. But you'll have to wait until after I arrange the ice 
rink rental for Akane and Ryoga tomorrow and that might take 
awhile..." Pausing Nabiki formed a contemplative face and murmured 
thoughtfully, "It's perfect." Directing hazel eyes at Ranma she smiled. 
"You two be at the ice rink tomorrow and there we'll work out a 
solution to your little romantic misconception problem."
	Beaming as Nabiki left the room Ranma turned blue eyes to 
C-chan and said cheerily, "Things are looking up." 
	"Mew..." C-chan responded doubtfully her scarlet eyes saying 
she wasn't sure about that. 
	Grinning Ranma pulled his pet into his lap and clucked her 
under the chin. "Pessimist," he chuckled. "You're a little too much like 
Ucchan for your own good." 
	At this comparison the cat's eyes became lidded as if 
considering the truth of it. Seeming pleased with this idea she arched 
her head against Ranma's touch and purred softly. 
	Observing his pet Ranma couldn't help but puzzle at the 
familiarity he shared with her. At times he really felt like C-chan was a 
person she seemed to understand him so well. Sighing at this he 
moved to turn on the television saying to the cat, "What do you think 
C-chan? Want to go skating with me and Ucchan tomorrow?" 
	Tilting her pink head to one side C-chan inquired with a 
puzzled, "Mew?" Asking what he meant by that.
	"You don't know what ice skating is?" Ranma asked and she 
shook her tiny head. "Why would a cat know what ice skating is?" he 
questioned himself. "Duh." Moving his attention back to C-chan he 
continued, "It's a sport people play where they were a special pair of 
shoes and glide across the ice. Tomorrow we're going to watch Akane 
try and teach Ryoga how to skate for the billionth time this week." He 
wore a sour expression. "But I doubt she'll succeed. So," Ranma 
beamed. "What do you think? Sounds like fun?"
	"Mew!" C-chan agreed strongly looking quite excited at the 
prospect of watching such an event. 
	"Guess that seals it," murmured Ranma. "You're coming with 
us." Chuckling he said, "Is it just me or do you go everywhere with me 
and Ucchan lately? Not that we mind... we like having you around. In 
fact," Ranma smiled softly at his pet. "Things have been pretty 
interesting since you've arrived. You know, we both love you girl."
	Saying this the pigtailed boy turned back to the television 
leaving C-chan to gaze at him with shocked eyes. They soon reverted 
to a state of utter devotion as she jumped off the table to rest 
comfortably at his side. Knowing that was exactly where she 
belonged. At both Ukyo and Ranma's side.

	Sitting on top the barrier surrounding the ice skating rink 
Sakura wore a droll expression. Massaging Kodachi's shoulders 
Sakura was observing with obvious amusement as Akane skated 
backwards slowly tugging a wobbling Ryoga behind her. The lost boy 
had a face of supreme concentration as he stared at his feet. Almost 
like he was willing himself not to stumble. While the couple did this 
they were passed by several small children who all smiled and gave 
greetings to the pair. Ryoga returned their sentiments easily and Akane 
mimicked this action beaming at the children who were always eager 
to offer suggestions in teaching Ryoga how to skate properly. 
	"What's she going to do with him?" Sakura asked sighing. "It's 
almost time for the match and he still can't skate on his own. He can 
barely manage to stand as it is."
	Sniffing slightly Kodachi noted, "The children seem fond of him 
though. If anything Ryoga appears to have made some new 
acquaintances." 
	Rolling green eyes Sakura drawled, "Yeah. That'll be real 
useful when the match comes. The help of little kids."
	"Never mock assistance for it often comes in unexpected 
forms my love," replied Kodachi solemnly. Violet eyes twinkled 
playfully. Turning around she pulled softly at Sakura's hands. "Come," 
she breathed. "Skate with me."
	Grinning at this request and the sensuous delivery it was given 
Sakura hopped down to land on the ice smoothly. Taking Kodachi's 
hand more firmly in her own Sakura moved into a quick and easy pace 
on the ice. Beaming at her girlfriend she murmured, "I'm glad you 
decided to keep me company Dachi. It wouldn't be any fun without 
you."
	"Indeed?" questioned Kodachi, quirking an eyebrow. "Well 
we wouldn't want my only love to be drowning in misery would we 
now?"
	"I wouldn't have said it that way but yeah," Sakura smirked. "I 
wouldn't want that." 
	Kodachi released a low indistinguishable murmur as a reply 
then changed her position to skate in front of Sakura pulling the street 
fighter behind her. Shaking at this shift in who was taking lead Sakura 
pumped her legs preparing to overtake Kodachi. Because if there was 
one thing she enjoyed it was a good old fashioned powerplay. 

	"You're doing a lot better today Ryochan," said Akane 
encouragingly. 
	Dark brown eyes lifted from their position locked on his feet. 
"Really?" Ryoga asked hesitantly, wobbling slightly he clutched to 
Akane's arm. "Maybe later I can try skating on my own. Shin says that 
if I use ankle bracers that should help me keep my balance."
	Akane smiled tenderly at this. Shin was one of the many 
kindergarten children that were taking skating classes at the ice rink. 
Since Akane and Ryoga's first day of training at the rink the children 
had taken a special interest in her lessons with Ryoga. Since the lost 
boy possessed an incredible amount patience while in Akane's 
presence he dealt well with the children's constant questions and 
advice. Watching Ryoga interact with the children Akane was given a 
glimpse of what he might be like with his own children. Maybe our 
children some day, thought Akane wistfully. 
	She was still pondering this when she felt a sharp jolt to her 
backside. Stumbling forward Akane released her hold on Ryoga's 
hands as she fell to the ice. Her palms against the ice Akane tipped her 
head upwards to look into the eyes of Shiratori Azusa who was 
giggling in annoying tones. 
	"You did that on purpose!" accused Akane pushing herself up 
quickly. 
	Shading sparkling blue eyes Azusa remarked with certain 
disdain, "Azusa did no such thing. Why would she need to make you a 
worse skater?" Averting her gaze around Akane she admired, "Your 
partner can skate really fast."
	"Huh?" Akane asked.
	Turning around Akane saw Ryoga flying backwards at 
incredible speeds waving his arms about as if in an attempt to grab 
onto something or someone to stop his velocity. Unfortunately for him 
this didn't happen and he made a bee-line for the rink barrier, crashing 
through it completely to topple over a table. This sent the table's 
occupants scattering as their drinks flew high into the air only to 
immediately plummet atop Ryoga's head. A moment later Ryoga piglet 
came crawling out of the rubble and running onto the ice.
	"Charlotte!" cried Azusa loudly on spotting Ryoga piglet 
heading their way.
	 Before Akane could react to this she received another sharp 
bump from Azusa as the figure skater bounded forward towards 
Ryoga piglet. This action sent Akane flying sideways in a similar 
motion to Ryoga's. She had barely begun to slow her travel on the ice 
when a pair of strong arms swept her up. Lifting her gaze Akane 
stared at the face of Sanzenin Mikado.
	"Oh. It's you," Akane scorned. "Put me down. I need to help 
Ryoga." 
	Flashing a charming smile Mikado replied, "Oh I can't do that. 
You owe me for saving you." 
	"Owe you?" asked Akane suspiciously. "What are you talking 
about?" Pushing her palms against his chest Akane prepared to deliver 
a strong kick to his jaw to employ her release from his embrace.
	 It was then that Mikado, learning from his hesitation before in 
wanting to drag the experience out, swiftly lowered his head to capture 
Akane's lips with his own. Light brown eyes widened in horror as this 
occurred and a mere second later she gave a powerful kick to his 
groin and upon landing on the ice threw Mikado against the far rink 
barrier. Eyes alight with rage Akane breathed heavily as she clenched 
her hands into fists. 
	Meanwhile on the other side of the rink Ryoga piglet ceased 
his struggles in Azusa's grip as he saw Mikado force himself on 
Akane. In complete shock on seeing Akane being kissed Ryoga piglet 
froze. This allowed Azusa to seize the opportunity to snap a tiny pink 
collar around his neck and lock it in place. A moment after she 
accomplished this he kicked furiously at her arms and scurried out of 
her embrace towards the figures of Sakura and Kodachi. Knowing full 
well that his best friend would know his intentions. 
	Seeing Ryoga piglet heading her way Sakura quickly leapt 
over the rink barrier to retrieve the backpack Ryoga always carried 
with supplies in case he got lost. Slinging it over her shoulder Sakura 
ran back to the rink side and held open her arms for Ryoga piglet to 
jump in them. Soon as he did this Sakura took off running for the 
bathrooms.
	As this happened Kodachi observed with wide eyes as her 
girlfriend dashed away holding Ryoga piglet. "Sakura, my love?" she 
questioned in baffled tones. 
	Kodachi could ponder no more on this bizarre departure 
because a moment later Ryoga, in his human form, stormed fuming 
back into the ice rink. Missing his ice skates and wearing a different 
outfit his dark brown eyes blazed with immense fury. In one deliberate 
step of power Ryoga crushed his right foot into the ice and caused a 
rippling effect which resulted in a long crack in the rink surface. 
	"MIKADO!!" screamed Ryoga, fists clenched at his side and 
jaw continually ticking in obvious anger. "You get away from Akane! 
NOW!"
	Staring at the tower of rage that was Ryoga the figure skater 
showed no signs of anxiety. "Oh? And why should I do that?" Mikado 
questioned easily, fully recovered and now standing next to Akane 
again. "Don't tell me this mere beggar is your partner Akane? I had 
expected someone more deserving." He smirked, "Surely you 
welcome my kiss more than you would his. I've saved you from being 
kissed by one who is truly unworthy of your beauty."
	"You jerk!" Akane yelled, hitting Mikado on the head with a 
large mallet she produced from nowhere.
	If possible Ryoga became even more agitated at this comment. 
Lowering his dark brown head Akane gasped as she saw a black 
cloud rise around his body. It seemed to circle and wind around 
Ryoga as would a snake. As this occurred he seemed to be lost in a 
trance. Ryoga's arms remained still at his sides as his fists tightened, 
murmuring to himself.
	"That which has been stolen, can never be replaced. Those 
who do not respect the rights of others, may never be granted respect 
themselves..." Raising dark brown eyes Ryoga hissed lowly, "It was a 
mistake to kiss Akane."
	Saying this the dark cloud surrounding Ryoga rose to 
mammoth levels and began twisting around him then swiftly entered his 
body with a slight jolt. Lifting his left hand the soft glow of a ethereal 
blue light filled his grasp. Growing stronger by the second it was soon 
blazing bright as the sun as Ryoga cupped his hands together. 
Stretching his cupped hands outwards Ryoga's face was one of utter 
rage as he shouted, "Shi Shi Houkoudan!!"
	Kodachi was mesmerized as she saw the force of Ryoga's chi 
energy fly forward at massive speeds destroying everything in its path 
towards Mikado. She continued to watch until the strong arms of 
Sakura took hold of her covering Kodachi with her body. 
	"Trust me Dachi," muttered Sakura darkly, clutching her 
girlfriend closer. "You don't wanna see this." 
	Azure eyes widened in certain panic as the energy blasted 
towards him and a mere second later Mikado felt himself being swept 
into its wake. Unable to control his movements or trajectory Mikado 
was helpless as the force of the attack drained his power making him 
weak as a newborn baby. Losing consciousness as he crashed through 
the outer wall of the rink building. Leaving in his wake a trail of high 
dust clouds and the scent of a burning aftermath. 
	"Mickey!" cried Azusa loudly, dashing out of the rink and after 
her disappearing partner. "Where are you going without Azusa?" 
	Standing in place where she had remained next to Mikado 
before the chi blast swept him away Akane's short black hair flew in 
the wind. It calmly fell back into place as light brown eyes shifted to 
the form of Ryoga. Exhausted the lost boy limply dropped his arms at 
his sides. Meeting her gaze he smiled softly, raising his hand, reaching 
out to her. "Akane..." whispered Ryoga in reverence, before collapsing 
onto the ice. 
	"Ryochan!" Akane shouted. Racing to his side she pulled him 
into her lap. Tenderly pushing back several loose strands of hair from 
his forehead Akane rested her face against his chest while quietly 
sobbing, "You didn't need to do that Ryoga. Not for me."
	The only response from Ryoga was a unintelligible moan and 
Akane buried her face against the warmth of his body more fully. 
Wanting to assure herself that he was really there. Jumping at the 
gentle touch at her shoulder Akane slowly looked into the comforting 
face of Sakura.
	"He'll be okay Akane," said Sakura confidently. "It's just that 
using that move always drains his energy. That's why he hardly ever 
uses it..." Sakura smirked, "Except when he gets really angry." 
	Sniffling Akane wiped away the last of her tears. "Really?" she 
questioned hopefully. 
	"Really," smiled Sakura. Bending down she lifted an 
unconscious Ryoga into her arms. Adjusting her stance the street 
fighter slung him over her shoulder while grunting slightly. "We better 
get out of here before we have to deal with the authorities for all this."
	"Indeed," murmured Kodachi. "No doubt this is an event of 
some serious legal prosecution involving the crime of destruction of 
property." 
	The dark gymnast was taking in the path of destruction 
Ryoga's chi blast had left. The ice inside the rink was completely 
charred leaving it melted and crushed while the far wall of the building 
had an enormous hole from where Mikado had flown from the 
premises. Surrounding the hole were the remnants of a once blazing 
fire that dwindling out. If you looked out of the gaping cavity one could 
see that the trail of fire and destruction was leading well across most of 
Nerima. Which left the theory that Mikado, wherever he had ended 
up, wasn't in the best shape.
	"Right," amended Sakura. Striding out of the rink she ignored 
the gapes of the few conscious spectators of the fight and muttered to 
the still unconscious Ryoga, "You really need to control your temper." 
Now outside the rink and walking down the charred street Sakura 
said to Akane who was unusually subdued, "Next time don't let some 
strange guy kiss you in front of Ryochan. Because I don't want to have 
to carry him around like this constantly."
	Akane opened her mouth, seemingly about to shout a loud 
protest to this comment, when she suddenly snapped it shut. Nodding 
her head in quiet agreement she raised light brown eyes to stare at 
Sakura. "Why did he do it?" she asked in a soft demand.
	Sakura ground out, "Don't you think that's a question for 
Ryochan, not me?"
	Gazing at the confused figure of her best friend Kodachi was 
more sympathetic. "Consider his actions Akane and what led up to 
them. Then ask yourself the same query you've placed before Sakura. 
All should be revealed."
	Pausing in her approach Akane froze while considering this. 
Staring at the departing figures of Kodachi and Sakura, with Ryoga 
slung over her shoulder, Akane's eyes widened and she murmured, "It 
couldn't be...."
	Alone in the street Tendo Akane came to a startling revelation. 
"Ryoga," Akane said in wonderment. "Was jealous."

	"You better start explaining sugar," said Ukyo dryly. 
	She was standing in the hallway outside the room Ranma 
shared with Ryoga discussing the events at the ice rink with Sakura. 
Ranma was standing with them but had his blue eyes focused on his 
room where Ryoga lay resting surrounded by the figures of Akane, 
Kasumi, Nodoka, and Kodachi. Genma and Soun had disappeared, 
out on the town for a night of drinking. Nabiki had locked herself 
away in her room and was apparently going insane trying to settle 
things with the rink owner. As she did this her right hand worker, 
Ryonami, was attempting to locate a new ice rink for Akane and 
Ryoga to practice in one last time before the match. That is, if there 
was still going to be a match. That fact was up in the air since no one 
had been able to locate Mikado yet.
	"Ryoga used his Shi Shi Houkoudan on Mikado after the 
dummy kissed Akane," shrugged Sakura. "He pretty much wrecked 
the skating rink and now he's taking a nap like he always does. No 
biggie."
	"No biggie?!" screeched Ukyo. Grabbing Sakura by her collar 
Ukyo shouted, "I can't believe you let him use such a dangerous move 
in a public place!"
	Smoothly pushing Ukyo's hands off her Sakura said calmly, "It 
wasn't like I could do much to prevent it. Once Ryochan gets an idea 
in his head he's impossible to stop. And anyway," Sakura stated 
coolly. She didn't like the self righteous tone her ex-lover was taking. 
But what bothered her even more, for some strange reason, was that 
the damn cat riding on Ukyo's shoulder seemed match the chef's 
mood. C-chan had her eyes narrowed and was hissing at the street 
fighter. Shaking her head Sakura decided to ignore the furry beast and 
rested an accusatory gaze on Ukyo. "It wasn't my Master who taught 
him that damn move. It was yours. And he did it wanting to teach you 
a lesson about being overconfident in a match I might add." Snorting 
Sakura adjusted her red wrist bracers, "You don't see me abusing 
what Ryu taught me about focusing my chi. So don't go bitching to me 
about all of this." 
	"Sorry," Ukyo sighed. Running her fingers through oak brown 
hair she murmured, "It's just that I don't like this sort of trouble."
	"Ditto," Sakura agreed. The pair were walking downstairs and 
towards the sitting room. Ranma was trailing behind them wearing a 
thoughtful expression. "I'd prefer to stay out of the limelight. I'm not 
Dachi, y'know," said Sakura, referring to her girlfriend's love of media 
speculation and the attention it leant her.
	Sitting next to Ukyo on the outer porch to gaze at the koi 
pond Ranma entered the conversation saying, "So what Ryoga 
basically did was focus his chi into an energy attack?"
	Nodding Ukyo replied, "Exactly Ranchan. He can use it by 
focusing on his feelings of depression or sadness. It's a pretty 
dangerous move that can obviously cause more than it's share of 
damage." Darkening her gaze she grumbled, "I wish the Master hadn't 
ever taught him that move."
	"It's your fault," reminded Sakura smugly. "You didn't take 
Ryochan seriously in your morning duels so the old guy decided to 
teach you a lesson. Don't blame anybody else."
	"Yeah, yeah," muttered Ukyo waving Sakura off.
	Ukyo didn't want to hear lectures from the street fighter. She 
had enough on her mind in dealing with the Nekoken and the rumor 
floating around about Ranma's sexuality without having to deal with 
past sins. Because of this attitude Ukyo couldn't help but smile when 
she heard Sakura yelp after being swiped at by an angry C-chan.
	  "So," Ranma intervened. "Do you think Mikado will be okay 
in time for the match? Or is the move Ryoga used on him so strong 
that he'll be out of commission?"
	"He should be fine Ranma honey," Ukyo replied. "The thing 
that has me worried is the rink owner. I hope he doesn't press 
charges... the dojo doesn't need this sort of thing."
	"Oh, I wouldn't worry about that." 
	Turning around the group saw the exhausted figure of Nabiki 
standing in the doorway followed by the timid Ryonami. They'd seen 
the girl on and off as she frequented the dojo to visit Nabiki but she 
was rather shy in her dealings with the other residents. It made the 
martial artists realize that they must appear intimidating to some of the 
other students at Furinkan who lacked their skills in the art. 
	Scooting away from C-chan, who appeared to have some sort 
of vendetta against her, Sakura moved towards the middle Tendo 
sister. "You worked things out with the rink owner then Nabchan?" 
she questioned.
	"Eventually yes," Nabiki sighed while taking a seat. Ryonami 
followed suit and hesitantly met the gaze of Ranma who smiled at the 
girl. She immediately blushed at this and averted her gaze. "He's 
chosen not to press charges after I arranged for his rink to be the 
exclusive practice arena for all ice sports at Furinkan. I had to pull 
some strings involving the different clubs but it all worked out in the 
end. The profits that he'll bring in should more then cover the damage. 
By the way," Nabiki turned her eyes to Sakura. "Ask Dachi if she 
might feel the sudden urge to influence the skating club at St. 
Hebereke to switch rinks. That might help as well."
	"No problem," said Sakura smoothly. "And what about 
Mikado the molester? He hospitalized or what?"
	Smirking at this Nabiki drawled, "Unfortunately no. Ryonami 
dug up some information for me and he's alive and well. Raring to go 
for the upcoming match and holding quite the grudge against Ryoga."
	"Don't blame him," put in Ukyo wryly.
	"What about the rink?" asked Ranma. "Did you find a new one 
for Akane to practice in? If Ryoga ever wakes up that is," he 
chuckled.
	"Yup," replied Nabiki. "Ryonami found one available in the 
Juban area that should be perfect for us. Apparently they have just as 
many problems there as we do here."
	"Juban?" questioned Ryoga warily as he entered the room. He 
looked fatigued and was leaning against Akane for support. "I think 
I've been there." Shifting his gaze to Sakura he continued, "Wasn't that 
the place we left in a big hurry because you transformed into your oni 
self and some crazy girls in Sailor outfits were chasing after you?"
	"The Sailor Senshi," amended Sakura. Shivering a bit she 
muttered, "I'd rather not come with you all if you don't mind. Last thing 
I need is running into them again. According to Ryochan they spend a 
whole day chasing after my oni side who got into some sort of 
electrical fight with Sailor Jupiter. And since Ryoga couldn't find me 
they were convinced my oni self was from someplace called the 
Negaverse."
	"No way," breathed Ranma. "You were in a fight with the 
Sailor Senshi? What're they like?"
	Shrugging Sakura replied, "Don't know. I can't remember 
anything when I'm an oni. I have to get other people to tell me what I 
did when that side of me takes over. But either way," Sakura stated. 
"I'm not going near Juban."
 	"Don't fret darling," purred Kodachi, taking her seat next to 
Sakura. "I'll keep you company so you'll not be faced with the traumas 
of withering away from loneliness."
	Sakura beamed widely at this and turned her attention to her 
girlfriend while the others sighed in conjoined amused exasperation.

	"C'mon Charlotte!" taunted Ranma loudly as he gave Ryoga a 
hard shove in the back. "This is pathetic! Even the little kids have more 
coordination then you!"
	"Ranma..." Ryoga growled lowly, tipping his head up from the 
cold ice where he lay face first. Jumping on his feet Ryoga shakily 
pursued the escaping Ranma who continued to shout insults at the lost 
boy. 
	Currently they were on the crowded floor of the Juban Ice 
Arena where Ranma was attempting to teach Ryoga how to skate with 
what he called 'motivational tactics'. Akane observed this with some 
degree of irritation but reluctantly admitted to herself that it seemed to 
be working. Ryoga tended to forget where he was the angrier he 
became and balancing on the ice was made easier through this. From 
the sidelines Ukyo sat conferring with Nabiki over what to do about 
the rumors behind spread about Ranma at Furinkan. Listening to the 
conversation with interest unknown to the humans around her was C-
chan.
	"You know," began Nabiki dryly. "It's come to my attention 
that lately I've been offering the multitude of my services for free. Not 
exactly prime business strategy." 
	Raising an eyebrow Ukyo looked away from C-chan to 
Nabiki, she had been offering the cat some of her home made 
okonimayiki. "What're you saying Nabchan?" asked Ukyo. "You're 
going to charge me for this consultation?"
	Chuckling lightly Nabiki replied, "Of course not Ukyo. I'm 
simply making an observation. Besides," Nabiki smirked. "Why have 
you pay me when it's so much better to have you owe me favors? It 
comes in handy to have some of the best martial artists in Japan be in 
debt to me."
	Rolling her eyes Ukyo responded, "Yeah. In debt to you and 
living with you. A nice setup I've got to admit." Leaning against the 
wall Ukyo stretched her legs out on the bench she sat on while 
drawing C-chan into her arms. Rubbing the purring cat's stomach she 
asked, "Got any ideas of how to get rid of these stupid rumors 
involving Ranchan?"
	Sighing Nabiki wore a contemplative expression. "I've 
considered the situation and could really only come to one solution. 
Unfortunately, I don't think you're going to like what's involved. 
Never-the-less," Nabiki wore a fond smile. "You'll probably insist on 
carrying it out anyway."  
	"For Ranma honey's sake I'll do anything," affirmed Ukyo. 
"Don't worry about my feelings. Just tell me what you've come up with 
Nabchan."
	"It's fairly simple," stated Nabiki. "Go before the entire 
Furinkan student body and reveal your curse. That should get rid of 
these yaoi rumors about Ranma right away. Of course," Nabiki looked 
weary. "Then they're be a whole new set involving you. Ukyo..." said 
Nabiki carefully. Leaning across the table hazel eyes peered 
inquisitively into sandalwood ones. "Why does this bother you so 
much? The rumors don't seem to concern Ranma, so why should they 
matter to you? Especially since we know you aren't averse having to 
same sex relationships."
	Scratching C-chan's ears Ukyo tipped her brown head back 
to gaze at the high ceiling to the ice arena. "It doesn't bother me if 
people talk about me but Ranchan? That's something entirely 
different." Shifting her gaze she stared hard at Nabiki. "And just 
because he acts like it isn't a big deal doesn't mean he feels that way. 
Ranchan is pretty good with hiding his real feelings but I can tell it's 
getting to him. Besides," Ukyo sighed. Releasing a puff of air she blew 
several errant strands of hair out of her eyeline. "I feel guilty. Before I 
came around no one was talking about Ranma like this. He was a 
respected guy around campus... sometimes I think he misses that. He 
must miss that. How couldn't he?"
	Pondering this Nabiki said slowly, "Well you certainly have 
stolen the spotlight at Furinkan. I won't argue with that but I wouldn't 
say Ranma minds it too much." The brunette paused to glance around 
the arena. Seeing Ranma was on the far side of it shoving Ryoga 
around she smiled. Scooting across the table to sit next to Ukyo she 
whispered lowly, "I'll give you a little known fact involving your 
iinazuke. I'm telling you because I think you'll be able to convince him 
to do it and it's a good idea. Ranma has always wanted to run for 
President of his class. He's already a class representative but he never 
worked up the courage to run for President."
	"Oh?" Ukyo questioned. "That's strange... why would be 
scared to run? He's really popular."
	Nabiki rolled hazel eyes. "Because the doofus doesn't know 
how well liked he is. That and I don't think he enjoys public speaking 
too much." Drawing back into her seat she continued, "I think he has a 
good chance of winning if he does. If..." Nabiki trailed off uncertainly.
	"If we get rid of these rumors," Ukyo filled in. Pausing she 
looked down at C-chan who had been listening to the conversation 
with some interest. "What do you think girl? Should I blow my cover 
and get rid of the complications of hiding the real me to help Ranma 
honey?" 
	Scarlet eyes looked thoughtful as they stared up into 
sandalwood ones. Moving out of her curled position on Ukyo's lap the 
cat padded softly up the length of her chest. Gazing directly into 
Ukyo's eyes she meowed softly then licked the okonomiyaki chef's 
face before nuzzling her neck.
	Chuckling softly at this Ukyo ran her fingers softly down C-
chan's back. Causing the cat to purr in appreciation at the soft 
massage. "I guess she's saying if they like me at all they won't care 
about the curse." Turning to Nabiki she smiled, "You set it up 
Nabchan and I'll be there."
	"You're the boss," replied Nabiki.
	Hazel eyes watched the interaction between the pet and her 
master. There was something about the cat that bothered Nabiki. 
Maybe it was the entirely all too human characteristics it seemed to 
share. Or how C-chan understood everything going on perfectly 
clearly. Either way, it was disconcerting. Shaking her head Nabiki 
averted her thoughts from the matter. She had more important things 
to plan. Like arranging for the proper situation in which Ukyo could 
reveal her curse before the entire populous of Furinkan. Mulling over 
this Nabiki wondered on the profits involved in tipping the school 
newspaper off. After all, she smirked, this is quite the exclusive. 
	Meanwhile on the ice Ryoga had managed to skate around the 
entire arena without slipping once. Of course, he had no idea he'd 
accomplished this task because he was too busy screaming at Ranma 
who was maintaining his teasing of Ryoga involving the small pink 
collar he wore.
	Circling his friend Ranma came to an easy stop and slapped 
Ryoga on the back. "Good job buddy," Ranma grinned. "You 
managed to chase me across the whole arena without falling or even 
wobbling once."
	Once angry brown eyes changed to amazed disbelief. 
"Really?" breathed Ryoga. Wobbling slightly now he grabbed onto the 
nearby arena barrier. "Not once?" 
	"Nope," assured Ranma. "Not once. You're getting a lot better 
Ryoga. You just have to remember in the match tomorrow to not think 
about it. Once you stop worrying about keeping your balance it's a lot 
easier for you do it."
	Nodding his head solemnly Ryoga replied, "I will." Meeting 
blue eyes Ryoga said softly, "Thank you for your help Ranma."
	"No problem," replied Ranma cheerily. Glancing around the 
rink he lowered his voice a few octaves before saying, "A piece of 
advice, though? Wear a turtleneck. You wouldn't want certain people 
to see that collar would you?"
	Releasing a startled yelp Ryoga instinctively covered the pink 
collar which read 'Charlotte' with his hand. A picture of Shiratori 
Azusa chasing after him screaming 'Charlotte' over and over came into 
his mind and Ryoga shuddered.
	Seeing this reaction Ranma grinned again and gave Ryoga a 
pat on the shoulder before skating off to leave the lost boy alone with 
the approaching Akane. 
	"Ryochan!" called Akane happily. Skating up to him she had 
her hands clasped behind her back. A gesture that Ryoga found very 
cute on her petite figure. "That was great!" Holding his arm softly she 
smiled. "I just know we're going to win the match tomorrow. The 
Golden Pair don't have a chance against us."
	Scratching the back of his head Ryoga blushed. "You think so 
Akane?" he questioned hesitantly.
	"We'll win," Akane said firmly. "There's no room for defeat in 
my mind. Besides," she formed a mischievous smile. "No way will 
Mikado be in his top form after your little performance yesterday."
	Blushing even more deeply Ryoga said nervously, "I'm sorry 
about that Akane... but he just made me so mad. Taking advantage of 
you like that," he snarled. Brown eyes darkened visibly and Ryoga 
clenched his fists. Snapping out of this black mood he met Akane's 
eyes. "I hope I didn't embarrass you. That's the last thing I want... I 
just wasn't thinking clearly at the time. I'm sorry."
	"Ryoga..." whispered Akane tenderly. Touching his cheek 
softly she murmured, "Don't be sorry." Tingeing she blushed in return. 
"To tell you the truth I sort of enjoyed seeing you beat him up. I just 
had no idea you were so powerful. That move you did," Akane shook 
her head. "It was amazing."
	Shifting his stance Ryoga coughed. "Oh that," he looked a bit 
uncomfortable. "The Master to your school of martial arts taught that 
to me actually. He wanted to teach Ukyo a lesson in humility." 
Forming a sour expression Ryoga muttered, "Didn't do much good in 
the end. She learned how to do a chi blast on her own with Sakura 
and Ryu's help. So she wasn't humbled at all. If anything," he 
grumbled. "She got more arrogant after that. Kept on stealing..." 
Ryoga trailed off in low unintelligible tones which Akane wondered at. 
Finally snapping out of this mood he said, "Sanzenin should be fine. He 
seemed like a formidable martial artist in his own right. I wouldn't 
count on an easy match tomorrow. We're definitely going to have our 
work cut out for us."
	"Oh, I know that," replied Akane smiling. Clutching Ryoga's 
arm she leaned on him while they skated forward as an pair. "But as 
long as we stick together, we're unbeatable Ryochan. I just know we'll 
win."
	Gazing down into Akane's beaming face Ryoga couldn't help but
echo those sentiments in his heart. Beware the Golden Pair, thought Ryoga
dangerously, you've met your match in Hibiki Ryoga and Tendo Akane. 
The smug face of Sanzenin Mikado came into his mind and Ryoga's jaw 
clenched. If that scum dared come near Akane tomorrow he didn't know 
what he would do. It was bad enough Sanzenin had managed to steal a 
forced kiss from Akane for his own sick reasons but if he should try it 
again... Well. It wouldn't be pretty. All the more reason to concentrate 
on our last training session now, thought Ryoga. Because there was no 
way in hell he was going to lose and let Sanzenin lord it over him. Ryoga 
would win, even if it killed him. For Akane's sake, he had to win. There 
was no other option.

To be continued... 

All characters in this fanfiction are from Ranma 1/2.
Except for Sakura who is from Street Fighter and Perfume who is 
borrowed from Wade Tritschler. This fanfiction was inspired by the 
works of Rumiko Takahashi, Wade Tritschler, Jim Robert Bader, and 
many other cool folks. 

Send comments to: Dreiser2@ix.netcom.com

Visit other Altered Destinies at:
www.fortunecity.com/lavendar/attenborough/249/index.htm

Next up: 
The bell sounds as the Charlotte Cup begins but who is the mysterious 
figure lurking in the shadows watching C-chan? 

<Gah hah hah... evil impulse.>
Just another one of Genma panda's kooky signs.