Haruka stared at her lover in shock. "Your parents?" Her horror increased tenfold when Michiru nodded with a smile on her face. The blonde turned to the couple with apprehension; she knew she wasn't much of a challenge for Ranma if she wasn't in her Senshi form. He had taken out several of them in hand to hand before making his escape yesterday. The fact that neither him nor Kakurine made any threatening moves did little to calm her down.
Hotaru felt as if she was dreaming, her body numb from the shock. She had honestly tried to kill the couple after all the horrible things Setsuna said about them. The Senshi of Time was certain those two would be the downfall of Crystal Tokyo if they weren't dealt with. *And they are Michiru-mama's parents.* Turning to the aquamarine-haired woman she could see the connection her 'mother' had with them. Being always quiet and withdrawn had its advantages. Hotaru was good at reading other people because she studied them without being noticed, and right now she could see Michiru loved her parents just as they loved her. Thinking back to yesterday's events she could remember that, after the initial attack, Sailor Neptune didn't take part in the fight. She decided to keep her promise and hear whatever Michiru had to say.
Ranma and Kakurine did a quick scan of the girls as soon as they entered with Michiru. They easily recognized the magical auras surrounding them, as well as the fact that they were passive. Having enough experience with magical warriors they knew there had to be a way to unlock their true power. It was an effective way of concealing their identities from someone who didn't know what to look for, even if it left them very vulnerable. They knew Michiru had strong feelings for those girls and understood. She could relay on them during a time when her parents abandoned her, even if she didn't blame the ones to give her life, and wanted to give her lover and daughter a chance. She actually needed their acceptance, and if Ranma and Kakurine could help with that, they would.
They all sat down and Michiru started to explain what happened yesterday. She didn't hide anything from Haruka and Hotaru, telling them exactly what happened with Sailor Neptune and how her mother helped her save her very soul from the ancient spirit. She told them that, even if she didn't know exactly what her parents were, she wasn't human.
Kakurine scanned her daughter's family subtly, looking at the way their souls swirled with emotions as Michiru spoke. Her eyes turned completely red as she adjusted her vision to a spectrum no human could see, yet Haruka and Hotaru were too shocked by what Michiru was telling them to notice her attention.
When Michiru finished with the events all the way to yesterday evening an uncomfortable silence followed. Haruka was looking down at her hands, digesting what the former Sailor Senshi had just said. She now knew her feelings that something was wrong were accurate, she just didn't know how bad things were. She loved Neptune, they both had faced horrible things together with the knowledge that they were doing their duty. But now Michiru told her that Sailor Neptune didn't exist anymore, that she had killed the part of her that was their connection. The Senshi of Uranus was confused, so very confused, a feeling of betrayal starting to grow inside.
Hotaru didn't have such a hard time figuring things out for herself. She remembered that during her past life Neptune avoided her just as much as everybody else, while in this life things were different, she could always count on 'Michiru-mama' whenever she needed someone. It would be giving her too little credit saying she hesitated at all. For the Senshi of Silence all that mattered was that the ancient spirit of Sailor Neptune was destroying the one she loved, and Michiru simply fought back. She turned to Michiru and recognized fear in her features, fear of not being accepted. That fear was washed away as Hotaru stood up and hugged the aquamarine-haired woman. She didn't care if she wasn't a Senshi anymore, she was her Michiru-mama.
Kakurine smiled when the little one hugged Michiru. She could see relief wash over her daughter and that warmed her heart. *And to think we're responsible for most of her suffering.* Guilt was a strong emotion in both Ranma and Kakurine. They both thought Michiru would be happier if she led a normal life. But she had a hard life either way, and without her parents to support her. The priest dying a couple of years back didn't help much, though both of them were suspicious about that 'natural' death. Even if Michiru had forgiven them they weren't sure they could forgive themselves.
Michiru relished in the hug her 'daughter' was giving her. She didn't realize how much her family's acceptance meant for her till now. She could see Haruka was troubled by what she heard, but it didn't matter right now. Hotaru accepted her for who and what she was.
Haruka ignored the emotional moment between Michiru and Hotaru and turned her gaze to Michiru's 'parents.' "Michiru said you weren't human. What are you?" Her tone of voice reflected perfectly the dark emotions raging within her. These two were responsible for her world being turned upside down. She didn't know what her feelings for Michiru were now, but she did know things would never be the same.
Kakurine decided to answer the question before Ranma put his foot in his mouth. He tended to be very blunt with people when they were being aggressive. "You could say we're more advanced beings that come from the same origins."
"Aren't you modest?" Haruka asked with gritted teeth.
Ranma didn't retort to that remembering his daughter's request for him to keep his temper in check. He also tried to understand Haruka's position in this matter. With a more level head he joined the discussion. "I know how you feel." Seeing Haruka turn her attention to him he continued. "I was born human and lived that way for nearly twenty years, being trained in martial arts to become the best. Suddenly someone appeared out of nowhere and told me humans are not the ultimate form of evolution. But you should know there's nothing wrong with that. In my experience I've come to the conclusion that all life forms basically the same."
By now Michiru and Hotaru had broken the embrace and were eagerly waiting for Ranma's answer. Hotaru wanted to learn as much as she could about Michiru's parents. Maybe something she learned would prove Setsuna's words wrong. Ranma, at least till now, was proving to be tolerant towards others, something the Senshi of Time argued strongly against.
Michiru didn't know much about her father's life, and remembered to put more pressure on him to reveal his past. Everyone forgot about it in the morning due to Nabiki Tendo's presence, but she wouldn't let that happen again. For now she wanted to hear what her father had to say.
Haruka's glare didn't lose any of its intensity, partly because Ranma had a cocky smirk on his face as he said the 'best' part. Her pride as a martial artist received a blow when she thought about the hidden implications of that statement. He considered himself the best. She completely ignored the second part of Ranma's words and settled for another question. "Then how come you're not a human anymore?"
Kakurine answered that question for her husband, her face an expressionless mask. "Ranma would've transcended beyond human hood either way, the first human ever to achieve such a thing, he just needed half a century of training and he would've become what he is today. I came to this world looking for the strongest warriors, to ask for their help in facing an evil being threatening to destroy another world. I was surprised to find a human martial artist with enough power and skill to kill the Phoenix. We left and the final battle resulted in victory and Ranma's transformation."
Hotaru and Michiru were mystified by the story. They eyed Ranma with awe since he was living proof that humans could go beyond their limitations. Michiru was starting to put the pieces together, particularly the one of why she had a human grandmother. There were still a lot of pieces missing from this puzzle, but every detail helped.
Haruka's eyes suddenly widened as her mind made a startling connection. The mention of the Phoenix put it all together. "YOU'RE RANMA SAOTOME?!" She all but yelled standing up and pointing a shaking finger at the pigtailed martial artist. She completely missed the surprised and annoyed looks she received from the other patrons, her attention fully focused on the man before her.
Ranma frowned a little at that. "What about it?" He asked, knowing he wouldn't like where this was going. Sure enough, the blonde's shock turned into murdering rage all too quickly or his taste.
"SHINE!" She jumped over the table and her hands reached forward towards his neck. Her eyes widened when he casually batted away her hands, pressed several shiatsu that immobilized her, and gently pushed her over the table to land on her chair. All of it using nothing but his left arm.
Hotaru's jaw hit the table at the display of skill. She didn't even see the man move, yet Haruka was glaring daggers at him from her sitting position, futilely struggling to make her body move.
Michiru nodded, having seen exactly what her father did to her lover and knowing none of it was lethal. She didn't know why Haruka reacted like that to hearing her father's name. *Now that I think about it, I don't know why I don't have his family name but mother's.* She realized.
Ranma sighed and Kakurine giggled. "What did you do to her?" It wasn't the first time someone had tried to kill Ranma just by learning his name.
The pigtailed martial artist groaned at seeing the glare directed his way by the blonde. "I have no idea."
"You bastard." Haruka growled out once she gave up trying to choke him to death. "Wait till I can move and I'll..."
Michiru interrupted Haruka before she started swearing like when she was with the mechanics. "Haruka, why are you so angry at him?" She hoped the Senshi of Uranus would heed her question.
Ranma and Kakurine watched carefully as Haruka's features softened a little, only to harden even more. "I'll never marry you." She promised.
Michiru and Hotaru blinked at that, unsure of what she meant, while Ranma groaned and Kakurine pouted. "Another fiance." The later said, wondering in how many painful ways she could kill Genma Saotome for his greed. It wasn't the first time this happened, by far, and she was sure it wouldn't be the last.
Ranma took a deep breath and seriously addressed Haruka. "Look, girl. I don't know what Genma promised your family for me to marry you, but I have no intention of marrying you whatsoever." He turned to Kakurine, who smiled at him and took his hand. "I'm already taken."
Haruka calmed a little at that. The prospect of her parents arranging a marriage for her as a last resort to 'correct' her sexual preferences always made rage build within her. Seeing the man she was promised to release her of the obligation was a relief.
"Okasan, did I miss something?" Asked an utterly confused Michiru.
"I'll explain later, Michiru-chan. For now we should probably order." The priestess said signaling for one of the waiters to come take their order.
Ranma turned to Michiru. "Did you see the shiatsu I pressed?" Receiving a nod he continued. "Pay attention, these are the releasers." And in so saying he stood up and walked over to Haruka.
The blonde felt a little tingling cover her body and she could move again. She had to fight down the urge to attack Ranma, knowing he was way out of her league. That was one of the things she learned while tracking him down. Ranma Saotome was a martial arts Kami to anyone that had seen him fight, and many were relieved when they knew he disappeared. Now that he wasn't human he was even more dangerous, the Senshi could attest to that if the fight in the park was any indication.
A waiter came to the table and they all ordered. After they were left alone, Haruka turned to Kakurine. "And what now?"
"About what?"
"Will you oppose the building of Crystal Tokyo?" Haruka asked bluntly. Michiru chocked and Hotaru turned worriedly to hear Kakurine's answer. If they opposed the foundation of Crystal Tokyo they would become their enemies.
Kakurine shrugged. "Why should we? It is a human affair as far as we're concerned."
Sighs of relief were heard at that. Ranma continued for his wife. "We don't like to interfere either way, so if you manage to build your 'Crystal Tokyo' that's fine with us."
Haruka narrowed her eyes. "That means you won't help us."
Michiru and Hotaru shook their heads. Haruka always thought that if someone wasn't your friend he was your enemy. That was probably something she inherited from Sailor Uranus. It seemed like the Senshi of the Silver Millennium were hardened soldiers, unlike the little girls they were now.
Silence followed Haruka's accusation and the rest of the evening was spent with inconsequential conversation, none wanting to start a conflict.
Ranma left a very generous tip as they left, nodding to the waiter in apology for the outbursts earlier.
Once outside, Haruka turned to Michiru. "Will you be returning with us?" None could tell what answer the blonde wanted. It was obvious she was still very confused by the night's revelations.
Michiru turned to her parents for support and smiled faintly at their smiles. They trusted her and would abide to her decision. Turning back to her lover, she said. "I still have to learn how to control my powers. And I think we all need time to think this over."
Haruka nodded and took Hotaru's hand. The girl smiled at Michiru and waved. "Bye, Michiru-mama." She knew both Haruka and Michiru needed support. The later had her parents, so that left Haruka under her care.
After they left Michiru turned to her parents. "I don't think Haruka will accept me." There was a lot of pain in her voice, together with resignation. She knew her lover very well, Haruka felt betrayed and had good reasons to.
Ranma stepped forward and put a hand on his daughter's shoulder. "Life isn't easy, girl. If it was it would be boring." With that the three of them vanished, still having to visit a friend before the day was over.
-------------------------------------------
She watched as two figures fought all out in the remains of the Gate. Her eyes never even wandering off once to ensure not missing anything. Her eyes, more attuned to energy, widened because of the huge powers battling. Energy blasts capable of vaporizing mountains were casually thrown only to be met by the unyielding walls of protective auras. Even if the power advantage was held by one of them, the other balanced it out with skill and determination.
They broke apart to recover their breath, none of them used to fighting such an opponent, someone in their league. Now that they stood still and their auras lost most of their brilliance their features could be clearly seen. One of them was a black-haired man, his blue-gray eyes shining with power. He wore Chinese clothes, which were charred from receiving a couple of fireballs. The other was a tall, beautiful woman with long blue-gray hair. Her red eyes revealing her delight at fighting someone worthy to face her as well as a growing distress. This human was too good to be true.
"Human, why are you so intent on destroying me?" The woman finally asked in a regal voice. She wasn't in any hurry to finish this fight.
The man didn't relax his fighting stance when answered. "All you know is destruction. I can't let you escape this place so you can kill more innocents." Even if the words were noble they sounded hollow even to himself.
"What is your real reason?" She asked intrigued. "I know you don't really want to kill me, so why?" The man stared at her silently so she pressed on, trying to make him doubt himself. "Is it to have my power? Do you want to become a Kami, perhaps?" No reaction, and she understood why. This human was already powerful enough to make some Kami tremble. "Or do you intend to become a hero, to be a legend?" Still no reaction, and with that she cursed inwardly. *This must be one of those idealistic fools. Thinking justice is reason enough to start a war.* "Is it because of a woman?" He flinched inwardly at that, and even if he didn't show it she knew. *I have you now.* "That's it, isn't it? You're fighting for a woman." She stated in an amused tone of voice and noticed his muscles tense. All she needed to do now was exploit this weakness and he'd be reckless. Humans were so weak. "Is she worth it? Does she even know how you pathetic excuse of a man feel?" His aura was starting to grow, changing color to an angry red. He wouldn't be able to control himself for much longer. His eyes turned to the side for a fraction of a second and that was all she needed. She was so shocked such a thing was possible, but wouldn't let the opportunity go. "Her?" And she burst out laughing, careful not to part her gaze from him. Even if he was only human he was emanating enough energy to actually kill her. "Do you even know what she is? Do you know why she's doing this?" She narrowed her eyes and waved her staff in front of her. "You fool. You're being used by her for as long as she needs you. Once you manage to kill me and the others, even if you won't, she'll abandon you like a broken toy."
By now the man's aura was blazing with even more intensity than before. Blood flowed from his fists as the nails cut deep on his flesh with the pressure. And the eyes. His eyes were twin pools of incandescent light. "SHUT UP!" He bellowed just as he launched himself at her in a blind fury. The ground beneath him exploded with the pressure of each step he took, all to get closer, to destroy the being mocking him.
She smirked when the man charged. He had been able to keep up with her because of his skill. She gave him that, at least. But this attack had neither the skill nor the power to face against her. She patiently waited for him to get closer before making her move. *NOW!* "VANALGANDO!" She raised her staff and pointed it at the charging man, then released a powerful beam of energy he couldn't hope to dodge. Not from this close.
This technique was her most powerful one. There wasn't a single thing she couldn't destroy with that beam. It proved true once again as the man received the attack in the chest and was pierced from side to side, a huge hole left on the right side of his body.
Of course her surprise was great when instead of falling dead the man continued running at her. And even more so when he cocked an arm back and punched her in the chest, his glowing fist breaking all her ribs and giving a lethal blow to her heart. They stared at each other's eyes for what seemed like an eternity, both feeling the life drain away from them.
The man tried to smile and whispered something that, due to the deafening silence, was clearly heard by both women. "I don't care. If your death makes her happy that's all I need to know." As he spoke these few words blood started flowing from his mouth. His legs couldn't support him anymore and he fell on his back, his eyes barely taking notice of the blood coating his left hand. Blood that wasn't his.
The woman fell as well, her life extinguished even before she touched the ground. Her last thought congratulating the man for his victory. She had never expected for someone to attack her after receiving her final technique, so she never prepared herself for such an event.
The other woman witnessed as life energy slowly left the limp bodies. She started walking towards them, carefully walking around the many lava filled craters. She watched as the woman's energy all coalescended in a point over her body, while the man's dispersed in the air. She finally reached their bodies. The woman was already dead, but the man was still agonizing. His eyes focused on her, a satisfied smile on his lips, before passing out.
She felt a burning sensation in her eyes as she got a metal sphere from within her robe and the woman's energy was absorbed into it. Something wet traveled down her cheek and she was shocked. *I'm crying!* She knew what crying was. She had seen it in others enough to understand its reason. But never before had she shed a tear of her own. She knelt next to the man and brought one shaking hand to his face. *Why?* Confused and scared, she gently caressed his cheek, remembering all she knew about him. All the time he spent with her, growing within her.
Why couldn't things be simple? She didn't want a man, she wanted 'Her' back. He was a great man, for a human, but still... why did she feel this way?
No answers came to her until she heard his last breath. The knowledge that she would never see him again, that he would never fight for her, smile at her, make her laugh, just be with her. That knowledge brought her the answers she needed. "No." She whispered softly, tears now flowing freely from her eyes. "I won't let you die, ever." She knew what she had to do.
--------------------------------------------
She woke up with a start, desperately reaching out with her senses. She was relieved when she felt him next to her in a deep sleep. "Again." She whispered referring to that dream. The moment when she made a decision that changed her life.
She turned and laid close to her husband, reaching forward to place his arms around her smaller frame. With that she quickly returned to sleep, knowing the next day would be very eventful.
--------------------------------------------
Nabiki smirked as she received the report. Everything was ready, as she expected, to retrieve Ranma. Her plan was a masterpiece as everything would be blamed on someone else and she would get her revenge on several people, but most importantly the pigtailed martial artist. Her people made sure to prepare everything so that he wouldn't be able to escape. She wasn't fooled by his apparent absence, knowing that he had something to do with those waitresses. *And knowing the idiot he'll come out of hiding when Taro starts to have 'fun' with that little bitch.* She hadn't earned everyone's fear by letting an offense like that go without proper punishment.
She gave her final instructions and hung the phone. It was still dark outside, but she needed to be ready for the day's activities. As she walked down the hall she heard her father's sobbing and disgustedly shook her head. *Damn you, Ranma!* Soun was still a mess after whatever Ranma did in the dojo. Genma was too drunk to care, drinking to try and forget what an 'ungrateful' son he had.
Nabiki snorted. That was the only thing she felt sorry for Ranma about, his moronic father. And even then her mind was set on making Ranma's life a hell worst than a thousand deaths. *Let's see how he reacts to having his purple-haired slut killed by another purple-haired slut.* And with that she left her house, quickly joined by her two shadows.
---------------------------------------------
Uchan's was as packed as the day before. The two lovely waitresses making the fear inspired by Nabiki Tendo to vanish. Now prepared for the rush, Ukyo had no trouble in the grill. She didn't know how long she would have the help of her two waitresses, but as long as it lasted she would make the most of it. Maybe even hire a couple of girls to give her a hand, if this was the kind of success she would have for paying a couple of salaries. She threw three okonomiyaki in completely different directions and smiled when they were all redirected to land safely in front of the patrons. *Then again not just about anyone can do that.* She had a good eye for skill and could tell that Michiru was, even if not nearly as good as Ranma, good enough to actually hold her own against the okonomiyaki chef and probably win.
Nodoka and Kakurine were handing her ingredients like there was no tomorrow, the three of them working in perfect harmony in the kitchen. They were keeping an open eye for everyone that came into the business, though. None of them wanted any surprises and Nabiki had a lot of agents.
Michiru was a little nervous for what was going to happen. Her father told her about how quickly Nabiki could organize something, so they expected whatever she had planned to happen today. She felt a little relieved knowing her parents were both there, but couldn't help but worry. She had no idea what Ranma and Kakurine had prepared to counter Nabiki's plans, only that they had gone see a friend about it last night.
A couple of hours passed like that and eventually they all relaxed due to the constant activity. It wasn't until the rush was starting to dwindle when something out of the ordinary happened.
Two police officers entered the restaurant with a warrant for the arrest of one Nodoka Saotome. They brushed off the waitresses and entered the kitchen forcefully.
Nodoka, not wanting to cause a scene and create trouble for Ukyo, said. "I'm Nodoka, gentlemen."
One of them blinked and had to admit this woman was very brave if she knew it was Nabiki who was behind her arrest. "Please come with us, madam. Don't make this more difficult than it already is."
Nodoka nodded and turned to Kakurine. The priestess gave her a quick hug, whispering something in her ear only her mother-in-law could hear. With that Nodoka accompanied the two officers of the law, nodding to one of the waitresses on her way out.
Ukyo remained silent during the whole ordeal as Ranma instructed her. She didn't know why the pigtailed martial artist allowed his mother to be arrested, but it was probably to protect her from was obviously going to happen in the restaurant.
The morning rush ended and everyone started working on cleaning the place. Michiru collected the garbage and went to the back of the restaurant to dispose of it while Ranma cleaned the tables and Ukyo worked on the grill. Kakurine replenished the supplies and took note of what should be bought.
Ranma suddenly heard some sort of commotion outside and smirked. She turned to the other two women and signaled them to wait inside. After that she quickly went outside.
--------------------------------------------
*Patience is a virtue.* He thought to himself as he saw his prey walk out of the restaurant and into the alley. Not looking a gift horse in the mouth he jumped down from his hiding spot and quietly made his way to that same alley. His eyes roamed up and down the figure of the girl, hunger for her flesh filling his mind with pleasant thoughts of what he was about to do. *I wonder how much she'll scream before she starts enjoying it.* He approached her from behind as she bent down and... received a kick to the jaw that sent him flying back and to the wall. His eyes didn't leave her as he crashed with the wall and slid down to his feet. He cursed himself for not noticing the grace with which she moved around.
Smirking sadistically he licked his lips. "I love it when they play hard to get." And with that he charged, fully intent on giving her a sound beating before having fun with her.
Michiru felt the presence as soon as she entered the alley. She managed to remember her father's advice for such situations. *Always try to take them by surprise.* When she felt her kick connect with the man's jaw she congratulated herself. At the same time she regretted not putting on the high heels her father wanted her to wear. That would've taken care of it already. Instead of that she turned to see the man give her another lust-filled look before charging with a skill she knew she couldn't match just yet. She ducked under the first punch and managed to redirect the following kick, but a back-fist sent her reeling back before a kick caught her in the solar plexus. She tripped with a garbage can and fell flat on her back.
-----------------------------------------
Nabiki smirked from her vantage point. She always got excited whenever Taro had fun with one of the girls he took a liking to. Too bad he only played with them once before they were taken to the morgue, this one was pretty. Right now she was standing on a nearby roof with a perfect view of the alley and most of the Uchan's. She watched as Taro kicked down the girl. "And so it begins."
"Nice view." A male voice behind her startled her. She turned around instantly, only to see Ranma dusting his hands and walking towards her, four men in black business suits laid on the ground in the sweet land of unconsciousness. "You're too confident, Nabiki. You know very well these clowns can't protect you from a half-decent martial artist."
Nabiki smirked again. "I know I can't stop you, Saotome. But I also know you won't do a thing." *You've always been too nice for your own good.* She turned back to the alley, where the girl had managed to get up and assumed a fighting stance. "Even if you wanted to hurt me, you would first go down there to protect her, giving me enough time to escape."
Ranma smirked as well and walked next to her. "Why would I do something like that?" He asked. When Nabiki turned an unbelieving stare at him he continued. "She's my daughter. She needs the experience."
Nabiki's jaw nearly hit the floor at that. "Your daughter?" She stuttered out. Had it been anyone else she would've laughed at the sheer stupidity of it. She was too old to be Ranma's daughter. But then again, this was Ranma she was dealing with. She turned back to the fight and saw Taro was landing several debilitating strikes while the girl kept on trying to build a defense against the cursed martial artist. Recovering some of her previous confidence she boasted. "It seems like you didn't train her very well, Saotome."
Ranma didn't say anything. He was carefully studying the fight, seeing what he needed to work on with Michiru. Seeing her fight someone like Taro revealed all her weaknesses. When he sparred with her he could never bring himself to actually fight seriously, to try and exploit every possible advantage and win the fight. He might be over his not-fighting-girls attitude, but his daughter was a different matter altogether. So far he could tell Michiru needed some serious work on her footing, she tended to stay in one place for far too long. Her endurance was very good, and her speed was nothing to sneeze at.
Nabiki was still smirking, but as time went on and Michiru refused to be beaten she started to have doubts. Her smirk returned with full force when Taro got a small vial from his tunic.
-----------------------------------------
Taro was starting to get frustrated. No matter how much he pummeled the little girl she refused to stay down. Instead she came at him with even more force than before, her moves becoming more refined. It almost seemed as if she was actually studying his moves, learning to effectively counter what he had.
In all his life he had only fought one person who did the same. His eyes narrowed as he went over her stance, this time ignoring the way her dress showed how well developed she was. *I'll be damned.* He blocked a right cross and delivered a palm strike to her ribs that threw her back. He wasn't surprised when she rolled with the fall and assumed her stance again. "This ends now." He reached into his tunic and took a hold of his secret weapon. It had been a while since he used his cursed form.
Michiru took a step back as the man grabbed something. She recognized it as a vial filled with some kind of liquid. Not taking any chances she prepared herself to dodge. So far the fight had been completely one-sided, yet she didn't feel as if she was losing. In fact she was starting to remember more and more of what her father taught her.
She was shocked, though, when Taro opened the vial and splashed himself with the liquid. He turned into a very big and ugly thing that gave her an evil smirk, or at least it looked that way. She realized there was no way she would defeat something that strong looking with her mediocre martial arts skill. Years of experience fighting Youma told her close quarters was not an option. Maybe a change in strategy was needed.
------------------------------------------
"She's doomed." Nabiki stated smugly. She knew even Ranma had trouble fighting Taro's cursed form, his daughter was dead meat if he didn't interfere.
Ranma frowned. "Well, I guess that's about it as far as martial arts is concerned." He wanted to see more of his daughter's skill, but that would have to wait for another time. He idly noticed a familiar purple-haired woman and old ghoul entering the Uchan's. "It seems like I have to go greet some old 'friends.' I'll deal with you later." In so saying he jumped off the roof and dashed into the restaurant, completely ignoring the fight taking place in the alley.
Having expected Ranma to go save his daughter from Taro, Nabiki had a sinking feeling that she wouldn't like his reasons not to.
-------------------------------------------
Ukyo was worried sick as Ranma and Michiru still didn't return. She knew Nabiki had something to do with it. As well as having something to do with the Amazons entering her restaurant. This time there was no mistake, it was Shampoo.
Kakurine watched calmly as a strong looking woman entered the Uchan's, an extremely old woman by her side balancing herself on a staff. She tilted her head to the side when she couldn't get a good reading on the old one, considering what Ranma said about her. It seemed like he war right, the elder was very adept at chi manipulation.
Shampoo entered the room, her eyes blazing, scanning for the one that fit Nabiki's description. The one that stole her Aireen. As soon as Nabiki contacted them they made their way back to Tokyo. They weren't far so they managed to arrive very soon. Her eyes rested on the one with the priestess robes. She was standing casually in the middle of the room, her head tilted to one side as she regarded the newcomers. The Amazon warrior retrieved a sword from its scabbard and pointed it at Kakurine. "You steal Aireen. You die."
Cologne, unlike her heir, studied the entire room. She could tell the only ones here were the okonomiyaki chef, who was giving them both a glare, and the one Nabiki said was Ranma's lover. She could see signs of fear in Ukyo, which were understandable, yet Kakurine seemed to be calm about their presence. *Too calm.* She thought, feelings a scrying attempt on the priestess' part. The fact that she had to strain to keep her inner energies hidden spoke highly of the woman. "Be careful, Shampoo. She's no ordinary woman." Even if she didn't seem the type to be a fighter, Cologne had seen masters of chi that didn't need to touch an opponent in order to win a fight.
Kakurine smiled sweetly at the Amazon warrior. "I didn't steal him from you. He wasn't yours to begin with."
Shampoo ignored Cologne's warning and took a menacing step forward. "Amazon Law say Ranma is Aireen. You obstacle and obstacles for killing."
"I take it her Japanese didn't get better over the years?" Cologne was startled when she heard Ranma's voice from the side. She turned to see him sitting on a stool next to her, a cocky grin on his face.
Cologne chuckled as she noticed Shampoo was too focused on her rival to see Ranma was in the same room. "I tried to teach her, Son-in-Law, but she refused to obey. She believed she would get you to the Amazon village in a matter of days even after years passed."
"You know I'm not marrying her."
Cologne nodded. "I've known it since the Phoenix pill incident." She turned her attention back to the combatants. "Your woman doesn't seem to be a martial artist, Son-in-Law."
"She isn't." He stated, not at all bothered by being called Son-in-Law. In fact the only thing he regretted about not marrying Shampoo was that Cologne wouldn't be his extended family. Even if he hated her most of the time he had grown to respect the Amazon elder.
Shampoo assumed a fighting stance a few feet from Kakurine, readying herself to impale the woman with her sword. "Let's play." Kakurine said sweetly as she suddenly floated a few inches in the air, her hands behind her back. Cologne's eyes widened a little at that. Levitation techniques were very draining and she couldn't feel much chi being consumed.
Shampoo ignored the feat and charged, her mind fully focused on getting rid of the obstacle, capturing Ranma and returning to China. Years of fruitless search had almost destroyed her determination. Just as she was about to give up Nabiki called, saying Ranma was back in Nerima. With a determination even stronger than before the Amazon warrior fought for her Aireen. He was only a stupid male that didn't know what his true feelings were. She'd show him.
Kakurine remained still as Shampoo charged with her sword, a strike directed to her heart coming almost too fast for the eye to see. The priestess remained completely motionless till the last second, and even then she didn't move. She simply changed the place where she was.
Cologne blinked, sure that the woman didn't move. Or if she did she was faster than whatever the old Amazon had seen before. Shampoo recovered from her missed strike and changed directions, directed at the priestess once again. Same results. Kakurine vanished in the last possible moment and appeared in some other place in the restaurant.
Ukyo's eyes were the size of dinner plates. She couldn't believe the speed Ranma's wife had. She had seen Kakurine move and even if she was graceful she didn't seem to be a martial artist. Now she was moving in a way that made Shampoo look like a snail.
Cologne turned to Ranma, who had a bored expression on his face. "She's teleporting, isn't she?" If he didn't answer this question she would rip her hair out. She couldn't believe someone could move that fast.
Ranma nodded and yawned. "I hate it when she does that. Why can't she simply get on with it instead of playing around?"
And so they continued to see as Shampoo charged all around for an opponent that wouldn't be there when she arrived.
---------------------------------------
Taro knew something was off when instead of fear he saw the girl become serious and stand straight. Usually he would wonder how much the girl would scream while at it if he was in this form, but right now he was too concerned about the faint glow starting to form around her. Her aquamarine hair started to flutter, though there was no breeze, while her eyes turned a startling red color.
Michiru knew she had to fight all out. The monster in front of her seemed to be very tuff and she couldn't afford to lose because of her pride. She concentrated on calling forth her heritage, energy filling her every pore as she felt her awareness increase. She could see every single emotion coursing through the man-turned-monster in front of her. She could feel shock from someone who was watching the fight from a nearby roof. She could actually see through the walls as her mother fought with an enraged woman, or should she saw just teleport around while the warrior wore herself out? It was bliss.
She could also feel the call of her parents' gifts to her when she was but a child. She remembered when they were given to her, then after she became a Senshi she didn't know what happened to them. Her aura started to increase slowly as she went deeper and deeper into herself, heeding the voices that requested to be released, to help her in this fight. Heeding the voices of powerful magical items never meant for humans to wield.
Taro and Nabiki watched in shock as the aura of the girl continued to increase in size and intensity, already the form of the girl nothing but a blur surrounded by a blazing inferno. The ground beneath the now floating girl was starting to melt into lava as the heat continued to increase. Suddenly they didn't feel so sure of victory.
--------------------------------------------
Ranma perked up as he felt the sudden increase in power. He turned to the alley and then to his wife. "Finish her off. Michiru will destroy the city if we don't guide her through her awakening." And with that he vanished from sight, leaving a shocked Cologne and Ukyo behind. *I didn't expect it to be so soon.*
Kakurine's sweet smile turned serious as Shampoo charged one more time. She could feel the massive energy being released and knew Michiru was not only awakening, but also releasing her gifts. She needed to finish this 'fight' and help Ranma.
The exhausted Amazon was stubbornly trying to cleave her adversary in half even though it was obvious she wouldn't put a finger on the priestess. Her mind was completely set on destroying her enemy. So that was why she didn't react in time to Kakurine's devastating attack.
Cologne watched in awe as Kakurine spined over herself, creating a ring of golden energy that extended from her rotating body. Shampoo was too close to dodge and as soon as she made contact with the ring it broke on one end and closed around her, somehow restricting her movements and making her stand straight. Her sword fell to the ground from nerveless fingers as the priestess reached forward and gave the Amazon a soft touch on the forehead with her index finger. She giggled before vanishing again.
Shampoo was unconscious before she crashed through the wall and landed limply outside. Ukyo was left babbling incoherently at the incredible show of power while Cologne shook her head. Any Amazon warrior should be able to put more of a fight than that. It was obvious Shampoo needed more training.
--------------------------------------------
Nabiki watched as Ranma suddenly appeared in the alley and blasted Taro with a huge chi blast without the monster noticing. He crashed with a wall and fell smoking to the ground, completely unconscious. Kakurine appeared shortly after and they both assumed positions on both sides of the glowing girl. The middle Tendo sister saw them extend their hands forward and a sphere of blue light surround the growing battle aura. The sphere changed colors several times, and finally settled on a bright white, effectively containing the battle aura inside.
Knowing this was way out of her league she decided to cut her loses. Nabiki took her cell phone out and dialed a number. As soon as the answer came she commanded in a voice that brook no argument. "Abort. I don't want any of the operations to continue." She couldn't risk losing more of her people. She wasn't sure if Taro would survive after receiving a blast of that magnitude, much less if the others could survive whatever was inside that sphere of energy.
She turned around and started her way home, only one of her shadows with her. As she walked away she managed a smirk. Even if her plans for revenge failed for the most part, she still managed to have Nodoka arrested. That would be enough revenge in the time it took her to prepare a plan that wouldn't fail. Her only problem right now was Akane, her little sister would be very upset for not being included in this little operation.
Back in the alley, Ranma and Kakurine continued pouring energy into the barrier with smiles on their faces. They could feel Michiru making contact with her magical items. Very soon she would be fully awake to her nature. At first they didn't want this to happen, but now that it was actually happening they both realized it was the way things were meant to be from the beginning. Michiru's feelings were those of pleasure and happiness as she made contact with her inner self.
It was only a matter of minutes before the process was completed. Around the corner came Ukyo and Cologne, their eyes wide with disbelief at the scene. Their eyes only widened when the figure inside the now almost nonexistent sphere grew glowing-white wings, two points of light appeared to either side of her and a blood-red sword materialized in her hand.
Why was it that things like these only happened with Ranma around?
END PART 6
Author's notes: Another chapter out. Sorry for the delay, my hard drive crashed and is now resting in peace. Therefore I lost most of my e-mail addresses and don't really know if someone sent me any mail last week.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the chapter.
|
