Ranma New Half
- Thread starter Zam
- Start date
- What if? Modern
-
- Tags
- ranma one half
Excellent insights there, I may try to weave that into the next chapter, kudos!
Chloe Sullivan
Subdefective
- Location
- 1630 Revello Drive, Sunnydale CA
It shouldn't be binding in any case because contracts don't work that way. Contracts are bilateral, not unilateral, and the so called contract doesn't specify what interest Ranma receives for adhering to the terms.
A fair point, I imagine in context what Ranma receives is "Being a man among men" or that the contract is mostly just a written pretense for an honor oath, but I could be wrong.
Chloe Sullivan
Subdefective
- Location
- 1630 Revello Drive, Sunnydale CA
Honor oaths aren't legally enforceable either.
But like, we can chalk this up to being some sort of custom/tradition for the community martial artists in Japan, and not based on anything real like contract law or actual historic paths.
- Location
- Sweden
- Pronouns
- She/Her
Either way it's morally bankrupt to sign a child up for something like that. Ranma has all the right in the world to ignore that piece of paper no matter what any law or custom says. Even more bankrupt to actually try and enforce it.
Last edited:
Chapter 9
Ranma New Half
Chapter 9
Ranma, woke up with the rising of the sun, it was a force of habit that she could sometimes suppress but not when she was nervous. 'Great start to the day, being all clogged up in my chest,' She slapped herself to wakefulness and gazed around the room.
She could vaguely hear Kasumi moving about, but Nabiki was clearly still asleep.
Uchan was still in deep sleep but he was breathing better, Ranma thought with a sigh of relief.
Akane was out like a light, her books on Chi strewn about around her; Xian Pu on the other hand was all about Akane, having rolled off her mat and into Akane's at some point.
Ryoga meanwhile had the tightest sleeping bag Ranma had ever seen and the fanged fighter had wedged it carefully into a shelf and seat, presumably to keep from rolling off in the night.
Forcing herself up, Ranma stretched until her abs ached and back cracked, before slipping around her... Friends, and out the door. Consciously she knew she must have woken them, fighters at most of their levels wouldn't sleep through that but it seemed they understood she needed sometime to meditate.
Jumping into the garden, Ranma began her morning stretches, drinking in the scent of the dew and the low whistling of birds. As she stretched she was quietly elated by how nimble and at ease her body felt, even as her Chi scrunched up and coiled in on itself.
'Tofu-Sensei did say he'd get me back into perfect fighting form last night, hah, probably the only reason I had any deep sleep.'
Leaping into the air, Ranma landed on the great rock that loomed over the Tendo's Koi pond and buried one fist into her palm.
She breathed in and out, slowly but surely, forcefully relaxing her Chi; pulling it from her core and sending it in waves across her body. Beneath her the Koi Pond began to ripple and Ranma knew she wouldn't be ready to face the day until she could calm her reflection.
But it was hard, because a question still burned in her mind.
'The techniques he has, the power those have, its more than I can do right now. Even training with the others, even the pressure points Tofu-Sensei showed me won't mean anything if I can't get close.'
She didn't have enough time, not to grow stronger, not to undermine the techniques or create a counter.
The water began to ripple more intensely.
'Stop. Calm. Focus. Don't think about what I lack, think about how can I make up the difference, I need a solution, not stress.'
A way to match the power her father would bring to bear in their fight. It seemed almost impossible given what Uchan had said, even Tofu-Sensei was leery and yet something danced on the edges of Ranma's senses as she poured through her mind and spirit.
A stray thought came to mind and the waters in the Koi Pond began to writhe, the rock beneath her feet cracking as Ranma's Chi flared and her eyes flew open.
'Oh.'
After the night's string of dramatic revelations and looming tension Nabiki had, somewhat counter intuitively to her longstanding practices, tried to be helpful. She wasn't sure she liked how habitual it was becoming either.
Of course, she wasn't a martial artist, or magical or really any help save for the occasional reality check on matters.
Thus she left Ranma to strategizing over Kuonji's tale of Genma's secret attack. Followed by sparring with Dr Tofu, Xian Pu & Hibiki throwing themselves into the fray at times as well, while Akane pawed over old family scrolls and Kasumi tended to food. Nabiki had taken her elder sister aside to discuss some of their plans. If nothing else the secret bank account was finally ready for use, but that was the best she could do.
Thus, she ended up being the first in bed and thus, very uncommon, was the first to rise.
'Or so I thought,' Nabiki mused, toweling off her hair as she walked into her room to find Ranma perched on her windowsill.
The girl instantly looked away from her barely covered form, cheeks tinged pink.
"Hey now, its just us girls here you know~"
"I know, but ah, still," Ranma mumbled, looking very intently at the wall.
"A shame, I thought you'd come to confess your undying affection and plans to whisk me away to an island resort."
"... Isn't it usually a deserted island?"
"Please, Ranma-Chan, I have standards, no less than four stars dear."
The redhead snorted, muffling her laughter with her hand as Nabiki threw on some clothes and let the redhead gather her thoughts before finally asking. "So, what can I do for you this morning?"
Ranma's posture stiffened and she finally looked at Nabiki, staring intently. "I have a favor to ask, and I can't ask any of the others."
"What could I do to help that they couldn't?"
Ranma rolled her shoulders, "The old bastard would see help from them coming, he'll be on the look out. Plus, I'm not sure they'd agree given what I have in mind."
"Even Xian Pu?"
"I don't wanna use her honor oath against her, and still, pops will be ready."
"Ah, so I'm just your last, best option," Nabiki joked, but Ranma looked, ill.
"I'm... I'm asking cos I trust you, Nabiki Nee-Chan."
'Terrible decision really.'
Sighing, she strode up to the redhead and ruffled her hair, "All right, fill me in on your plan."
Time somehow felt to be passing too quickly and agonizingly slowly to Akane. The fight for Ranma's future, her very life was going to happen, soon.
Their motley crew marched through the streets of Nerima. In the distance she could see a glimmering jade statue, the signature attraction of the Buddhist temple rising from the ground.
Everyone was present, Dr Tofu had closed his practice for the day and walked alongside Ukyo who was keeping up through use of a cane. Ryoga was being gently guided to stay on the path by Kasumi, while Nabiki with Ranma and at Akane's side was Xian Pu.
Akane felt a shoulder nudge, Xian-Pu's shimmering red eyes meeting hers. "Fret not, there is a plan."
Akane leaned in to whisper, "You're sure?"
Xian Pu just nodded, "Call it instinct," Her gaze drifted to Ranma, "I sense no fear, she is at peace."
She slowly nodded, trying to attune her still ill practiced senses to Ranma's aura with some success. Out of everyone's present hers was the only one that seemed alive at the moment, shimmering like fire, but clinging to her frame like a second skin.
Once again she saw Ranma's gaze drift to Nabiki, or more, the bag she was holding, but her sister just smiled and said nothing, ensuring Ranma's head turned away again.
Akane didn't know how she felt about a plan involving her sister, but as they arrived at the temple steps she knew she could do nothing about it. Sucking in a breath, she followed Ranma up barely registering the tiered forest on every level of the giant rise.
Just as they began nearing the top, Ranma froze, turning to face them she said. "I... Thanks for coming, all of you and-" She bit her lip, "Just for everything."
"You're blushing Ranma-Chan~" Nabiki sang, poking her cheek, "Its cute, you should do that more."
"Don't bully her Nabik Nee-Chan," Akane groused, grasping Ranma's hand and smiling, "Don't thank us, its what friends are for, OK?"
Ranmas eyes shimmered a moment as her gaze drifted across them all before she nodded, a grim expression blooming on her face. Ponytail flicking over her shoulder she added, "And guys, please remember. 'I' don't want to kill him."
With that ominous rejoinder, Ranma turned back and they reached the top of the stairs in silence.
Awaiting Ranma at the top of the steps was a respectable Buddhist Shrine, much the same as any and every one she had visited over the years. Wooden beam posts, elevated floors, with a subtly golden hip-and-gable roof that went out in sharp arches. All that jumped out to her was the surrounding tree line and the monstrous jade Buddha, easily three stories in height.
Standing before the temple were four people, two were obviously monks, dressed in humble robes and shaved heads. The younger was holding a clipboard while the elder strode forward, radiating serenity.
'And there they are, but one is missing,' Ranma observed, spying her mother, standing away from the whole affair, swords still in her arms and her face mute. In contrast her old man strode up to her alongside the monk glaring intently as they came to a stop before her.
"Boy," Genma muttered.
Ranma pointedly ignored him, her attention on the monk who offered a polite bow. "Good day to you challenger, I am the head of this humble temple and the official observer for this match. Tell me, what are the terms you both have agreed to?"
Ranma pointed a thumb to herself, "I am Ranma Saotome, heir to the clan and martial arts schools of the same name. I exercise my right to challenge my master and clan head for leadership of our family and school! We fight until one surrenders, fall unconscious or dies and the loser surrenders to the winners edicts!"
The monk smiled and bowed, turning to Genma, "You agree to these terms then?"
Genma snorted, "It will not matter, seeing as I shall win!"
The monk stared, "Whether you win or not is irrelevant, you must consent to the terms."
Genma muttered something about stepping on his moment, his gaze drifting to her friends and then back to Nodoka. "Very well, but I want to add a clause to our fight."
"And that is?" Ranma arched her brow.
"We can both use any tool, technique or weapon, including those given to us by outsiders, but, no outsider may participate in the fight."
'That explains where Soun is, probably hiding to throw a weapon 'to' Genma, through me or...' A chill ran down her spine, 'Something worse.'
Genma saw he got to her, he was smirking already, but Ranma steadied herself, 'You aren't the only one with plans old man!' She pointedly did not look at Nabiki and instead offered a cocksure grin, "Sure, whatever helps you last longer than two minutes."
"Trust me, 'boy' this will not last long," Genma intoned, turning he began to walk, and Ranma followed Genma and the monk to the center of the sharply cut stone square courtyard.
As the monk went off to organize things with his apprentice, Genma looked over his shoulder at Nodoka, "Do you wish to say anything to your son, my wife?"
Nodoka... Barely even turned to face him, her gaze on the grinning Buddha as she answered. "I am but the wife and mother, it is not my place to interfere in this battle."
Her father looked sour, but Ranma felt something.... Ease off her chest at that. Whatever her mother thought, she would respect the outcome of this fight, and with it, Ranma's nullification of the contract. That was.. Something, at least.
Any other thoughts were cast aside as the elder monk raised his hand high, "The rules have been agreed, the declarations made and witnesses stand ready. The match for the Saotome clan and School can now... Begin!"
Neither waited for the other to attack.
Each fighter kicked off from their easy standing position into a perfect striking form as they surged towards one another; Ranma's fist was caught in Genma's grasp just as she caught his with her free hand. Each made for a right legged round house kick before the reality of their potential blows forced them to flip backwards and apart.
Ranma had one palm out flat to catch any attack and the other braced to strike when-
A burning hot, stinging sensation splashed across her skin, making her yowl as some ancient looking kettle soared over head and into Genma's grasp.
"Sorry about the water boy, but we can't help it if you got... Splashed?"
Ranma's entire body was burning, seething, screaming but it was still 'her' body, clear for all as the steam cleared.
"But... How!? This was meant to break the curse!"
Xian Pu cackled, "Ignorant oaf, that artifact cannot overcome a thrice born embrace of the waters!"
Genma's enraged cursing was buried under Ranma's cry of fury; the ground shattered as she exploded towards him, aura flaring like a beacon.
Genma's defense wasn't enough, she smashed his 'weapon' aside. Her free fist crashed against his and drove it back. With a roar, she drove her knee into his jaw and there was a violent crack of bone and air as he shot up.
'Not getting away!' She snagged his ankles and slammed him into the stone floor, the ground sundering and cratering beneath her power, screams ringing out from the audience.
She dragged his legs aside, intent on stamping his chest down until something broke, but a sudden burst of his battle aura sent Ranma reeling. Genma loosed a demonic howl, it stung her ears and gave him just enough time to spin his hips and kick his way out of her grip, leaping away from her reach.
Marching from the crater, Ranma snapped, "That trick won't work twice old man, and your secret weapon is a dud. So give up, or I swear-"
She was interrupted by a bitter peel of laughter from Genma, "Threaten me all you like boy!" Genma wiped the small river of blood from his chin, "Boast and bellow until you can't speak anymore, it won't make a difference."
Ranma's march stilled as she saw something wild and furious whipping out from his Battle Aura, the air itself seemed to be screaming.
"Because for all I taught you Ranma, I never taught you everything, so bear witness to a true masters power."
"Ranchan!"
'This is it!'
"Demon God, Multiple Strike!"
Ranma flung herself to the side, the air around her screaming, the soles of her shoes disintegrating as a screaming gale of wind blades tore passed her and towards the jade Buddha.
"Mum!"
Nodoka was barely been pulled aside by the Chief monk in time.
But they all saw the invisible blades cut through the stone like it was paper, sending the giant statue crumbling to the ground with such weight and force it shook the earth.
"Behind me all of you!" The Head Monk proclaimed, hands falling into a prayer as the sound of a distant gong rang out, a glowing, spectral shield materializing before the monk and his temple as everyone hurried behind him.
Genma was still radiating anger, even as he forced it down, "Do you see now, boy-"
"Shut. UP!" Ranma shot to her feet, her gaze locking onto Nabiki who was on the edge of the defensive barrier. "You think you're the only one who can plan, the only one with secret techniques? Idiot! You're the one who taught me a technique you can't even use!"
Ranma launched herself in the air, Nabiki drew back her arm and loosed her bag, a feline yowl muffled by the material rang out and the rage drained away from her fathers face to be replaced by terror.
"You can't!" He cried.
But Ranma already had the bag, she was looking into the cats eyes, its claws dug into her palms and-
Genma acted on instinct, fear and rage suppressed in a moments notice to embrace the Umesenken.
He moved forward, invisible and swift to deliver a dozen strikes along the boy's spine and lay him low.
Mere moments before the first strike could land he saw Ranma's ears twitch, he heard a faint sniff on the air.
His blow surged down but Ranma was gone in a flash, vaulting over him, the cat hugged protectively to his chest.
Landing, the redhead swept his feet out from under him, only years of training let Genma arch out of the way of the blow.
Ranma's hand struck out like a claw and the blades of Chi it unleashed ripped across his back even as he surged away from her.
Rising to a defensive stance, Genma watched in muted horror as the maddened Ranma took up something akin to a martial artist stance. The cat on his students shoulder hissing alongside them.
'This... This has never happened before!'
But then, Ranma had never willingly embraced the madness of the Neko-Ken before now.
'If this is its true power!'
Genma launched himself into the sky, barely dodging Ranma's pounce.
The redhead glared up at Genma as he began to spin, a roar cracking across the skies like thunder.
"Dance of the Mad Demon God!"
A dozen blades of screaming air descended upon Ranma, a chaotic chorus of cutting death one bore no chance of dodging.
So Ranma did not, instead sucking in a terrible, singular breath and unleashing a roar that split the air as it crashed against the core of his attack.
The explosive wave of force tore the surrounding woods to shred, ripped stone up like mere paper in a hurricane and in the chaos, Ranma leapt at him.
Tearing through the remains of his attack, the younger fighter was too fast for Genma to strike against, barely able to brace as he was ripped from the sky.
Descending to the earth with a crash, all he could think to do was craft his Battle Aura into a barrier. It surged around his body, swelling and reshaping itself into a facsimile of his form, gargantuan enough that even Ranma's claw strikes only weakly cut his skin.
With swipe of a single, giant hand he drove the fighter back, even as his body rebelled and ached at the strain of it all. Shooting up, he launched a giant fist only to see it ripped and shredded by Ranma's feral strikes.
'Surprise is my only chance!'
He surged forward, shaking the earth and loosing a deafening war cry.
Ranma's roar matched and even surpassed his own, the cursed fighter charging him and unleashing those deadly claws.
Genma's Battle Aura gave wave and Ranma's strike shredded the nearby tree line to timber as the real Genma slid passed Ranma and kicked off from the ground, intent on delivering a final blow! Only for the redhead to spin around and forcing him to catch her wrists to stay another attack.
"Damn... You... Boy..."
Genma's entire body was screaming as he tried to overwhelm Ranma on raw strength, only to see it being met as the ground cracked and crumbled beneath them.
Then he saw Ranma suck in another breath.
'No.'
There was a quiet gleam of near sanity in those eyes as Ranma leaned forward and roared.
"Cover your ears!"
Nabiki didn't know who shouted it but she was way ahead of them. She watched and felt the booming, echoing roar unleashed by Ranma, so intense it left shockwaves and made her skeleton rattle in her skin.
Genma fared no better, his body lurching back violently, blood exploding from his ears and nose before he even touched the ground.
Crashing against the monk's barrier, Genma fell limp against the shimmering wall. His clothes in tatters, blood staining his skin as he clumsily tried and failed to stagger to his feet.
All the while Ranma approached, a tiger ready to bite down on its prey's neck and end the hunt, her entire body ablaze with power.
"I- I surrender! I Yield!" Genma cried, his words confused and clumsy as he curled in on himself.
Ranma didn't listen, lunging for the man.
'I don't want to kill him,' she had said.
Others must have been listening because the barrier vanished and in a blur, Dr Tofu, Xian Pu, Ryoga, Akane and even Ukyo moved forward, barring Ranma's path.
There was a burst of a blazing wall of Chi that even Nabiki could see and Ranma's hissing, thrashing form slammed against them but she did not strike or claw them, even as she snarled and gnashed her fangs.
Ukyo and Dr Tofu were silent, but the others did speak.
"Ranma-Chan, you didn't want to kill him!"
"Your honor remains, Ranma."
"You won, Saotome."
Kasumi was the next to move, slow and steady she strode up to Ranma's side, the snarling mass of primal fury softening at her presence.
Kasumi took Ranma's cheek in her hand and cooed, "You've done so well Ranma-Chan, you can rest now."
Ranma's arms lowered slowly, the feral gleam in her eyes fading as she dropped to her knees and fell into their collective embrace.
Nabiki let out a quiet sigh, even as she turned her gaze to Genma and was pleased to see him passed out in her fathers arms.
'I think... It might be over.'
Nodoka took in the scene with a now familiar numbness, a sensation she has been burying herself in since the revelations the day previous. The thought of her child cursed, of Genma killing them, of having to follow through on the contract and the reality she would kill herself without a second thought after...
It had all been too much.
So she buried herself in honor, duty and a demure manner. No man questions it when a woman keeps her silence and so Genma did not ask if she had overheard Ranma's plotting and she did not tell him.
But at the same time... She did nothing else.
Only half hearing the monk declare Ranma's victory, Nodoka's gaze was draw to her... Child, who seemed to have passed out and was now being tended to half like a person, and half like a cat.
Her katana rattled, the sheaths straining in her grip as she turned her attention to Genma, still out cold, embraced by a sobbing Soun and no one else.
Finally, something forced its way from her throat.
"What... What did I just see? That technique, Ranma's behavior, what in the gods name was that?"
The Kuonji boy looked to her muttering, "The Neko-Ken, Samurai."
She swallowed. Some part of her had already known that in her heart; but to see that monstrosity actually used, to see Ranma fight despite the madness, to have survived it at all...
Her voice was near silent and broken as she hung her head low, "I have been a terrible mother."
Ranma was stirring, slowly, she felt tired as hell, her muscles strained and aching and her Chi practically gone. Plus, she felt so damn comfy she just wanted to nap in the sun with all the nice touches soothing her aching frame.
But there was a worried voice, several in fact, drawing her back to wakefulness.
"Why hasn't she woken up yet?"
"Her body is strained and her Chi is nearly wiped out. The Neko-Ken doesn't grant new strength, it merely pushes the body beyond any sane limits."
"She's still purring... Will she..."
"Don't know, most who fall to the madness never return, but Ranchan has before."
"Save this time, she embraced it by choice, was stronger, more skillful; maybe buried deeper now..."
"She'll come back, she has to-"
Ranma' opened her eyes, "Who... Who says I'm not coming back- aH! Tight, tight," She squealed as Akane delivered a bone crushing hug.
Akane shot back, letting Ranma flop into Kasumi's lap shouting, "Sorry, sorry!"
"Its good, I'm a badass remember? Mhmmm, that's nice," She purred, as Kasumi patted her hair. Then she froze, "The fight, my old man did I-"
"You won," Ukyo cut in.
"The oaf lives," XIan Pu added, "We stopped you."
Ranma let out a low breath, "Thanks, I didn't wanna do something like that while I wasn't thinking straight." Pulling her legs in, Ranma waved off Dr Tofu and forced herself to shaky feet and was pleased to see her father stirring.
Her gaze drifted over to her mother who merely bowed, "Congratulations on your victory." The words were whispered quietly and bereft of any real tone, Ranma had no clue what to make of them, and her vision and senses were still to spotty to even try perceiving her Chi.
"... Thanks, it was hard won," She finally settled on, before lurching towards her father who stared up at her with shadowed eyes. Before she could speak the head monk tapped her on the shoulder.
"Young Sensei, you shattered his ear drums in the battle, you may want this, alongside your declaration of victory." He then passed her the scrolls of the clan and school, with a few written words she could cast him from both.
All they needed was her signature, which she was willing to give with the flick of the Monk's pen.
"Ranma-K-" Soun started.
"Enough!" He lurched back and Ranma pushed on. "I am no one's son, I never was I never shall be, but until today I was that man's student and child." She flicked the scrolls over and spoke sharply. "You might be deaf but you can read my lips, this, this right here is the end of it. All of it. You are no longer acknowledged as a Saotome or as a member of our School. In this your verdicts and your decisions can now be overturned by me, so I am dissolving any contracts or agreements I was not aware of or consenting too. No more debts cos you didn't want to pay for a meal, no more fiancé's, no more man among men."
She rocked back on her feet, sucking in a breath, "You're responsible for fixing the things you've broken, be it your word, the law or the martial artists code. I will not fight your battles for you again, Genma-San."
She then straightened and offered a curt bow, "I thank you for the lessons, I learned much from you, sir. Good luck with your life." Then she turned and began walking back to her friend; ignoring Soun's howling sobs and unwilling to even chance a glance her her mother.
Thus, she didn't hear Genma's growl.
She did not sense his raging Chi.
Did not see her friends horror.
Not until it was too late.
Genma saw his foe's back turn to him and began to move, sheer rage and instinct guiding his every motion.
'You do not turn your back on me.'
He was on his feet, Chi surging through his frame.
'You do not reject me.'
He was moving to fast too stop.
'You are mine!'
He'd made Ranma and he-
Something red splashed across his vision, crimson droplets scattering across Ranma's face like so many rain drops.
His entire left side felt... Cold, numb and pained all at once; he could not feel his heartbeat racing any more.
He looked down to see his blood spilling from his chest, across the blade and over Nodoka's hands.
Someone, no several someone's were crying, in shock maybe, horror, he didn't know.
Because with a quiet, "oh..." Genma fell and the darkness consumed him.
Notes:
Nearly finished, I force marched my way through these last two chapters, it was worth it and I'm proud of them but gosh am I tired XD
Ranma's not usually the most eloquent soul, but I figure given the culture she was brought up in for ceremonial stuff she can whip it out. Also hear it is, the scene I have been building to since I started writing this fic, and I even worked in a subtle RWBY reference.
One thing I enjoy about this story is how many odd pair ups I have, Xian Pu & Akane being buds, Ukyo having been a sort of lancer, Nabiki being a confidant, ETC. Also sorry about the jump after her & Ranma's scene, there wasn't much I could fill it in with though.
The temple they are fighting at is the same one Ranma fought Ryu Kumon at in the manga, its a great locale and the monks seem chill, I once again am using this story as a chance to fiddle with my world building HCs too.
As for Nodoka, she isn't exactly weaponizing the sexist standards and cultural practices surrounding her, but she is definitely utilizing them to avoid having to take a stance.
Also yes its 'that' kettle and it is 'that' Howl of the Demon Dog & indeed that was Genma using Happosai's "become a Kaiju" technique, he just lack the stamina to do it for long. One of the reasons this was so hard to write was figuring out a way for Ranma to beat Genma after I'd made him willing to kill her and showed him willing to use his forbidden techniques. I also needed a way around the contract that felt in character for Ranma and addressed it directly, so my initial idea of a group fight didn't work, especially with Ukyo down, and then it came to me Neko-ken.
Ah, you see. Unfortunately for you Genma, Nadoka just realized she was a bad mother. So she wanted to change that. She can't be a better mother to Ranma if she is dead, and you tried to kill her. Sorry-not-sorry, but:
Again you write good engaging chapters.
Anna Lynn
The Key, and the Gate, and that which is Beyond.
- Location
- ?
- Pronouns
- Depends/On/The/Day
For some reason I completely forgot about the neko-ken and was completely confused about Nabikis bag untill the last second.
The way you wrote the fight scene was just as superb as the othef scenes. Very well done!
The way you wrote the fight scene was just as superb as the othef scenes. Very well done!
Chloe Sullivan
Subdefective
- Location
- 1630 Revello Drive, Sunnydale CA
The plot moves fast but it mostly takes a good course. My only objection is that canonically most of these characters don't actually take 'honor' that seriously, but that is within the bounds of an AU.
For the most part, this just prunes out some of the comedic elements - the important thing is to be consistent and this nails that, which is why it works as an AU without coming across as slanted or bashy.
Genma is a Villian in a way he isn't in canon but His villainy is consistent and grounded in a specific character trait.
There are some parts which feel a little underdeveloped, mostly Nodoka's and Ukyo's ideological underpinnings for their sense of honor, and Kasumi just in general, but as the latter is also true of canon you can't be faulted for it.
It's a good fic, I'm just offering my thoughts here in hopes it's useful feedback.
For the most part, this just prunes out some of the comedic elements - the important thing is to be consistent and this nails that, which is why it works as an AU without coming across as slanted or bashy.
Genma is a Villian in a way he isn't in canon but His villainy is consistent and grounded in a specific character trait.
There are some parts which feel a little underdeveloped, mostly Nodoka's and Ukyo's ideological underpinnings for their sense of honor, and Kasumi just in general, but as the latter is also true of canon you can't be faulted for it.
It's a good fic, I'm just offering my thoughts here in hopes it's useful feedback.
- Location
- Victoria, BC
Ah so good. What I was expecting was Ranma would splash Genma during the fight. He wouldn't have access to hot water so he would have to fight as a bear. His chi control would be shot while Ranma's would be perfect.
This is good too. Genma's worst action led to his defeat. Great story.
This is good too. Genma's worst action led to his defeat. Great story.
You know, when I first started reading this, I was skeptical - the core change(Ranma's self-definition) is one of those that's obvious enough that a bad author could make 'Ranma one-half, except Ranma has no problems being a girl.' The low bar... left me with a low expectation. Until I started reading it.
My concerns are as shattered as the Jade Buddha statue. My only concern is that I can only leave one like per chapter; that final battle is one I suspect I'm going to study for my own writing efforts. And that final act on Genma's and Nodoka's part? A magnificent climax to two character arcs; Nodoka makes the first unambiguous step towards redemption for her past towards Ranma in one decisive, incisive act, even as Gemna damns himself as a martial artist.
Really, this last chapter is blooming blossoms on the sakura tree.
My concerns are as shattered as the Jade Buddha statue. My only concern is that I can only leave one like per chapter; that final battle is one I suspect I'm going to study for my own writing efforts. And that final act on Genma's and Nodoka's part? A magnificent climax to two character arcs; Nodoka makes the first unambiguous step towards redemption for her past towards Ranma in one decisive, incisive act, even as Gemna damns himself as a martial artist.
Really, this last chapter is blooming blossoms on the sakura tree.
As said before by both me and others, the manga is a comedy so the deeper issues are either ignored or used to forward the plot either directly or indirectly for some value of said comedy. The implications are ignored purposely by the author. In the nineties it was said Nabiki was the only truly evil character, that she was manipulative and stingy and greedy; that she did not in fact use her money to support the family as fanon suggests. Whether that is true or not is up to alternative character interpretation; or fanfiction as the case may be. Whatever the headcanon that you have because of the manga I suggest you always remember it's just all fictional so you should really just relax.
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The was the point where, in some small remote corner of his mind, Saotome Genma understood that he had erred.
Had he been able to acknowledge it on a conscious level... well, Nodoka would need less therapy.
Hahahaha, this was brilliantly phrased and delivered, excellent use of meme content there XD
Thank you so much, that is wonderful to hear!
Honestly I had too before I needed to scramble and figure out a solution to the problems I had created for Ranma, but I am glad that allowed the use of it to be a surprise.
Thanks, that is really encouraging to hear as writing fight scenes can be a real challenge!
Oh definitely on the speed, if I had more time, energy ETC I would have drawn this story out to give it a smoother pace, but I wanted to ensure I finished it and so structured it a bit more like a very long movie. Glad it takes a good course regardless. As to honor, that's fair, I think some of that is at least rooted in the comedy and "Everyone is kind of an asshole" vibe, but within context, honor is also what the characters make of it. An an example, Ukyo has no issue with slitting Genma's throat in his sleep, he's a Shinobi, but cos of his trauma he considers damaging a girls reputation abhorrent or 'dishonorable'. Basically, honor is more like whatever personal code they live by, and to a lesser extent its the clan/school politics that surround them, such as Xian Pu's laws or the contract.
Yeah while I love Ranma when its being fun, if I want to take certain subjects seriously it kind of snowballs XD So I am glad I managed to land that more serious tone while keeping the characters coherent and believable.
I am heartened Genma landed, as him being an out and villain to this extent does still seem to by and large be an exception in a lot of fics, but I figured given some of the stuff he was willing to do in canon, if taken more seriously, could well indicate a very ruthless mindset.
Mhm that's fair, I didn't spend a lot of time on Nodoka and I was a little worried about the story becoming to Ukyo centric and have so many thoughts on him I may have thought they came across without being included. Also yeah I don't think I ever wrote more than one scene from Kasumi's persective, oops XD
No problem, I appreciate the insights!
... Dang that is super clever and utilizes world build I had included in the story. hahaha, great idea there, wish I had thought of it!
I am glad it paid off thematically, and that I'd brought it up at least once before in the story so it didn't feel too out of place XD
I adore the phrasing of the Jade Buddha statue bit, thanks so much for giving this story a chance and so glad you ended up enjoying it!
So happy that Nodokas decision feels like it paid off things between her & Genma, and thanks for the lovely final line!
Indeed so and that is certainly, mostly, fine and fun within the manga itself but it can make telling a more weighty story a tricky balancing act XD
I always thought that line about Nabiki was buck wild given Happosai is around, even with Nabiki's steady Flanderization (Like Kasumi's own) it still felt a bit extreme given how much of the cast behaved at any given time XD
But yeah, well said there!
Hehehe, indeed so, he had become error.
Pride can be quite the poison as can control over another person, sadly for several people it will leave a mark.
Thanks and good question, if I had to say it would be through a mystic type, likely a seer or otherwise someone with an expertise in detecting magical items and spells and identifying them using Genma's curse as a base to scry for magic related to the curse.
RyubosJ
Person that hates Mega Evolutions.
- Location
- UK
Having just read the fic that's interesting, as you brought up Neko-ken before in such a way this felt like a really well done Chekhov's gun
I'm glad to hear that and honestly, haha, yeah. Really the more and more I write stories the more I find out how much can end up sort of weaved in later if that makes sense.
Chapter 10 - Epilogue
Ranma New Half
Chapter 10 - EpilogueRanma's first memories were of an endless dirt road on a warm summers day. Her weak little body, long since exhausted, was wrapped in her fathers arms as he hummed a tune that had burnt itself into her mind.
For all her life it had just been Ranma and her dad. Friends and foes came and went, but always it was them, the Saotome's against the world. Even when she hated him, even when she banished him she never imagined he'd ever really be gone.
He couldn't be. Her dad might as well have been the ground upon which she walked, the support beams that held up her very identity. Without her dad there was no Ranma and however fearful or furious she could be with him, her dad was like the sun, an ever present constant in her life.
And now he was dead.
His blood had been wiped from her skin but she could still feel the warm droplets, still detect the dried crimson on her once pristine white top. She could still hear him gasping his last as the one thing she'd always had was ripped away from her leaving Ranma to... What?
She didn't know, she could barely even think.
Instead she was just slumped against Nabiki on the shrine steps, the girl not knowing what to do save keep her steady.
Ranma was vaguely aware of the world passing by around her.
Of Tofu-Sensei inspecting her mother, Kasumi was consoling her broken father, of how Akane had cried at seeing a man cut down and Xian Pu was left struggling to understand her tears; of the temple monks tending to the body and the police inspector who showed up just long enough to confirm it was a clan matter and leave.
She was aware but barely seeing how everyone else sort of flittered in and out trying not to crowd her but to ensure she knew they were there. The only absence she noticed was Uchan, disappearing when the monks came out to talk about funerary rights.
'Keep it closed casket, don't open it again,' Nabiki had said for her and Ranma just nodded numbly. She didn't know if Soun or her mother agreed, but it didn't matter, soon enough the monks were gone, Uchan was back and Ranma could smell the faint scent of smoke in the air.
Her dad was dead and Ranma couldn't do a thing about it.
Kasumi felt like she was somehow in free fall and yet weighed by chains.
The trip back to the Dojo had been, crowded and quiet and all together awful.
Ranma didn't speak she barely moved, needing to be coaxed along as she struggled to even find the will to put one foot in front of the other.
Kasumi would have helped but for the first time in a week their father was walking with them. Silent tears streamed down his face as he held the urn containing Genma's ashes close to his chest. Any effort to make him speak only earned a choking, wretched sob before he stilled again.
The only silver lining was that Tofu-Sensei had decided to escort Ranma's mother home, sparing them that potential confrontation. But as they returned to the Dojo, family, friends and guests alike, Kasumi feared... She feared something finally snapping.
But nothing came of it.
Instead, her father immediately set off for his room and only once he was out of sight, did Kasumi turn and face Ranma. Cradling the girls cheeks she kissed her brow and whispered, "Sit down dear, Ill bring us all something to drink."
Ranma nodded weakly, a whispered thanks on her lips before the light died in her eyes and she was guided to the table, dropping to the floor with a limp thud.
Kasumi disappeared into the kitchen and busied herself with her task. Not quite able to lose herself in the humdrum of familiar duties, but finding them calming all the same. A few stray droplets of tea were enough to shatter the illusion, the kettle hitting the bench with a low clang as she steadied her nerves.
'I must find someone to speak to about this...' she turned to the crowd of unrested teens filling the living room and nodded. 'But first I must look after them.'
Wiping away the mess, Kasumi's head shot up at the sound of foot falls and she looked to see Nabiki and Kuonji sliding into the kitchen.
"We'll take the tea Nee-Sama," Nabiki said.
Kuonji nodded, "Your father is collecting travelling gear."
"We thought you should know," Nabiki finished, picking up the tray.
Kasumi clasped her hands and nodded before making her way out of the kitchen, waving Kuonji and Xian Pu's silent offers of escort off. He was her father, and for all that she was disappointed with him in this last week, she knew it was not in him to hurt her.
Pushing open the door, Kasumi watched as her father meticulously and mechanically packed his old travelling pack. Interestingly he left Ranma's items entirely undisturbed even as he worked with one hand, the other unwilling to part with the urn.
"Father?"
"Kasumi-Chan..." His words were weak, but at least he was speaking.
"Is there something I can do to help?"
He looked at her and then away, askance, "No my dear, I do not think anything can be helped now." He must have seen her expression as he spoke again, hastily, confusedly, desperately. "I just wanted... I just wanted what was best for the families, for our dreams to come true I just.... I just wanted the joys and hopes and ambitions of who we were to be realized. I just thought... I thought it was for the best of all of us."
"And now father?"
"I now know that nothing I say matters, that I cannot change what has come to pass and that I cannot stay here."
"Father-"
"I cannot, Kasumi-Chan. I can see now that whatever I might think you have all made you decision and I've not the strength or will to fight you." He clutched the ern to his chest, "I have not the motive or the heart to continue down this path or to stay in this place." Turning he sealed his bag, "I think it would be best for all of us if I left for a time, to reflect. The house is more yours than mine in many ways, and I know I can trust you to care for everyone under its roof."
He slung the travelling bag over his back and strode up to her, swallowing he murmured, "I am so proud of the woman you've become. Whatever else, know that my dear."
Kasumi offered her father a gentle embrace, "Stay safe, father."
Ranma ate her meal mechanically, exhaustion of every shade suffusing her being and the air around the table was mostly quiet. She vaguely registered Uchan and Ryoga helping Kasumi clear the table while Akane, Nabiki & Xian Pu all... Hovered.
"Guys, thanks but its, ah, fine..."
Xian Pu flicked her forehead, "No lying."
Ranma flopped to the floor with a thud, unable to eve argue.
Akane patted her hand, murmuring, "I... I've never seen someone die like that, it scared me, it still scares me, but that isn't what's gotten to you is it?"
"Dying's not new, not really, but dad dying? I never..." She looked at her hands, ever callous and hidden scar. "I can't even think about this moment, or the one after..."
"It was the same for us when our mother died," The words were cool, clipped and came from Nabiki of all people, the brunette brushing her fingers through Ranma's hair. "Not," she stressed, "That I'm comparing the two, cos they aren't even close to the same."
Ranma chuckled weakly, "I bet, still though..."
"You are without structure, support, systems," Xian Pu said, "At home, there is community, closeness. Even when... Even when... Warriors fell to the Musk, no one was alone to mourn. No one was left without guidance."
"In that case," Akane said slowly, "Can we be your new supports Ranma-Chan? Its not a village or a clan but, we can be there for you."
Ranma could feel her body tingling, eyes watering, a whispered, "Thank you," Escaping her dusty ashen mouth.
"You're not alone," Nabaiki intoned grandly, "And I know for sure I can give you guidance, for a fee~"
Ranma laughed for the first time that night, a weak, pathetic, wheezing thing, but she laughed.
Some unspoken agreement had let to everyone setting up to sleep in the dining room.
Tables were moved, pillows fluffed and the TV was set on some kind of movie rotation Ranma didn't recognize.
Nabiki, despite participating, was grousing, "If I am sleeping down here, I at least want the best pillows."
"I think the pillows are all much the same, Nabiki-Chan," Kasumi answered idly, before gasping as she realized her mistake.
Nabiki rocked back and forth in her sitting position, nearly bare legs on display enough that & Ukyo had felt the need to look away but it was Ranma & Xian Pu she sent her wink. "Oh I don't know those two seem better equipped to- Arf!"
Akane came to the rescues with a mighty thwack of her pillow to Nabiki's face. A challenge, the brunette answered with a well placed tickle, sending the younger girl flopping over in hysterics, "Nabiki Nee-Chan!"
Nabiki tossed the pillow aside and smiled all too sweetly, "Ranma-Cham, be a good girl and hold her down for me."
Akane braced, "Xian Pu-Senpai, reinforcements?"
The warrior sent Ranma a fierce and wickedly amused smirk that had her running to the opposite side of the room as the Amazon snatched up a pillow and gave chase.
It wasn't long before a stray pillow struck Ryoga, drawing them into the fight and with that Uchan began provided long range support with his good arm. Finally, a well placed trip from Kasumi dragged her into play and soon enough the living room was flooded with noise and life.
Ranma awoke slowly, later than the dawn for once.
That reality left a weight on her chest, one that nearly took from her all the work done by everyone the night before.
Only a herculean effort even let Ranma lift her head off the pillow and attune her senses enough to register Kasumi in the kitchen and the gliding sound of Xian Pu's Dao sword outside. Everyone else was still sleeping, including Nabiki who had gotten her wish and was currently snoozing on Ranma's chest.
Careful rolling and sliding deposited Nabiki onto her and Ranma's original pillows. The brunette frowning in her sleep as she ground her face into the soft material, apparently unsatisfied but still asleep.
Sitting up, Ranma considered going to the kitchen to help Kasumi, but the sudden whip crack sensation of her fathers chastisement rang in her head stopped her.
'I never even like him,' she told herself, face in her hands, body quivering quietly, her eyes trying and failing to cry. She was shamefully grateful for the distant sound of a ringing bell, giving her the motive and energy to stand.
Waving off Kasumi and Xian Pu as she left the room, Ranma made her way to the front of the house, expecting maybe a package or something. Instead what greeted her at the gates was an elegant visage with dark red hair, a deep blue kimono and a single sword resting gently in her arms.
"Mother..."
The older woman bowed, "Ranma-Sama, may I speak?"
Ranma couldn't even properly form words, which was as good as permission as Nodoko needed. She rested the katana in both her hands and said. "I assume you don't know much of my families history, but this katana was wielded by a great samurai nearly eight centuries ago. Since then it has been passed down our line from father to son, until my grandparents, who bore a daughter and then myself."
The sword shook in her hands, her words growing hotter and more ragged. "Its ancient, its an heirloom, and its something I thought I would use to kill my own child..." Her hands encircled the shaft and tip and with a bitten back shriek she shattered the blade on her knee. Glinting steel and dark wood work falling to the ground as Ranma could barely do more than gasp.
Nodoko looked at her, really looked at her, body quaking, eyes shimmering with tears. "For over ten years I awaited my beloved son's return, burying myself in honor, resolving myself through duty as my heart began to break and when you come back to me..." She choked her words out, "I do nothing for you, I fail you again as I did then and... I.."
She wiped tears from her eyes with a sort of clumsy desperation, "I don't understand you, I don't know you and perhaps I don't deserve to and yet. You are kind, you are brave and you are honorable." She steeled herself before Ranma, "You have every right to banish me from the clan, do so and I won't begrudge you but if you can.. If you would let me..." She held out a hand, "I want to try and know you, as my daughter."
At those words, the walls of apathy and despair were broken by a flood and Ranma flung herself forward, embracing the woman with a cry. "You're my mother! All I've wanted for so long is to know you!"
She was crying, sobbing, burying her face in her mothers shoulder as the woman embraced her, weeping and whispering. "Oh sweet child, I am so, so sorry."
The pair fell to their knees, the rest of the world forgotten as mother and daughter embraced.
Epilogues:
Money Troubles:
Nabiki tapped a clipboard, drawing the very crowded room's attention as she began tp speak.
"Family, friends, handsome and pretty guests," She added with a wink. "Its time we discuss something important."
A hand shot up, "Yes, Kuonji-Kun."
"If this is about money-"
"It is about money," she assured, seeing several of the fighters wiggling uncomfortably.
Xian Pu however shrugged, "Shall we go hunting to put food on the table? Or perhaps rob some triad for money?"
Nabiki blinked, "OK, as hot as that sounds, I actually already have a solution, but it needs you fighter types present around the clock."
Ranma perked up, "Wait this is about-"
"Right you are Ranma-Chan," Nabiki crowed, motioning to Kasumi, "Big sister here has an account set up, I have a list of potential buyers and with it, we can begin making ready for an aunction."
Hibiki and Akane raised their hands, "Uh, auction what?" Akane asked.
Nabiki turned over the clip board to reveal a single strand of hair inside a plastic sleeve.
Xian Pu screamed, "Nǐ yǒu lóng xū!"
Nabiki's Chinese wasn't great, especially given Xian Pu's archaic annunciation, but she got the message, "Dragon Whisker, yup, the cure for baldness. We're gonna sell it and I want you lot on hand to keep it safe in case anyone tries to steal it rather than pay up." This had been in the works for weeks and with Genma out of the way the only threats would come from outside.
"Ai-ya, we can do much better," Xian Pu grinned, "Because I know recipe."
Nabiki's mouth slowly opened and close as the realization hit her, "Then we can... Sell the meal, not to one person, but several rich guys at once!?"
Xian Pu nodded proudly, "Should be able to make at least eight bowls with that whisker."
'Eight buyers. Eight buyers! EIGHT BUYERS!'
Nabiki got up, and pulled Xian Pu into a kiss.
The Black Rose:
"I can't believe that girl left rose petals all over my room!" Akane shrieked, as Xian Pu and Ryoga helped her clean up the mess.
"Is very strange courting ritual," Xian Pu concurred.
"I don't think she was courting Akane-San," Ryoga cut it, "The Black Rose is just theatrical like that."
Akane blinked and turned to face the fanged fighter, "Wait, you know her?"
Ryoga blushed, "I've uh, studied Martial Arts Gymnastics, in fact I was going to offer to help you train if you wanted."
"Oh, wow Hibiki-Chan, thank you, that's very nice of you!" Akane cheered, only to be tapped on the shoulder.
"I shall aid as well, you can also borrow my tools," Xian Pu opened her top to reveal her Chui, a spear, and that godlike Dao sword.
"I'm not sure those are legal."
"Oh no, they're all very legal, any tool is accepted, its just traditional tools make it easier to get points, but with Kodachi-Sama," Ryoga shrugged. "Its better to go in hard hitting I think."
"See, is excellent idea, Akane should listen to her Senpai!"
Akane surrendered, "All right, all right, well thank you both, let's finish cleaning and start training all right?"
Shinobi
Ukyo knelt before the heads of several great Shinobi Clans. Some in person, other's through everything from magical artifacts, to techniques, to laptops
Sitting before Ukyo were two items, a freezer box, and a weathered scroll, "Elders, clan heads, masters of the shadows, I bring to you the head of our enemy, and a gift from their clan as recompense."
There was a series of silent motions and whispers before one of the elders spoke up, "You have then slain, Genma Saotome?"
Ukyo frowned and bowed, "If the elders will permit me to speak, I shall tell you what has transpired within these last two months."
Ranma was staring at Ukyo with wide eyes as the Shinobi casually tossed the girl an Okonomiyaki.
"I will have to thank your mother properly, the scroll she found really helped the elders ease up on me."
The redhead swallowed her first bite with a pleased moan before answering. "So that got you your old rank back?"
She could have asked if that alone had been enough, but Ukyo knew Ranma, at the very least suspected the truth but would not comment on what went unsaid. A polite fiction between old friends to never ask and never tell.
Smiling the Shinibo spun a spatula, "I'm now a fully acknowledge Shinobi, with all the ranks, rights and responsibilities that entails. I am still to be the son and not the daughter, buuut there's not going to be as much enforcement on that anymore." Ukyo shrugged, "Besides, once we find Hibiki-Chan again, I plan on setting off for China."
Ranma nodded, finishing her meal, "Sounds like a plan, we're still tryna figure out how Xian Pu can go home too."
"Had much luck there?"
Ranma's expression said it all.
Home & Hearth:
Akane was, well, she was happier than she'd been in a long time. The occasional fight for her life and safety notwithstanding, things were just fantastic!
Case in point, Kuno had completely diverted his obsession with her to some kind of rivalry with Nabiki which always ended with Kuonji stomping his head in. And while Kodachi very much was the new Kuno in her life, Akane didn't resent having an obsessive rival as much as she had an obsessive suitor. The Principle was still absurd though, and was the one point of contention everyone agreed with, even Tatewaki.
Nabiki-Chan had, well Akane couldn't say she'd softened exactly, but her hard edges were no longer directed at her loved one's, which was already a huge improvement. Plus, with all the money they'd raked in, Aunti Saotome's help around the Dojo and some gentle encouragement, Kasumi was now taking a medical apprenticeship with Dr Tofu! Ranma-Chan had settled in quite happily and seemingly permanently while the others tended to drift in and out, but the Dojo never felt lonely.
Akane felt strong arms embrace her from behind, Xian Pu's elegant voice echoing in her ears as the purple haired woman rested her chin on Akane's head. "Stop studying dull books and sleep."
Chuckling Akane closed the book, "All right, the reports not due for another week anyway," stretching as she rose. Xian Pu watched her, nodding at some silent appraisal that Akane had just gotten used to.
Following her 'Senpai' because Xian Pu would not let that go, to the bathroom to wash up, Akane had a thought occur.
"You know we have a guest room if you want it, why have you never slept there when you stay over? Not that I mind, and I mean, I guess others do end up sleeping there too." Xian Pu's penchant for bed hopping was well known after all.
Xian Pu looked at her, crimson eyes deadly serious and slightly shimmering, "At home there is... We are communal, sisters, brothers, cousins, friends, often under one roof. Affection is never far, another's warmth always nearby, not like here where everyone locks themselves in little boxes."
"Oh Xian Pu..." She pulled the taller girl into a hug, "We'll find a way to get you welcomed back home, I know we will and until then... We'll always be here for you."
Xian Pu hugged her tightly, no words needed to be spoken, but the pair joined Ranma in her bed that night, just to ensure Xian Pu had two people beside her.
The Old Master:
Kasumi could not say she was unhappy with how her life had been going in the recent months, but the last few days had certainly been a hassle.
Clothes vanishing from all across the neighborhood, angry shouting and screams. All while her younger kin were dealing with some sort of cat ghost summoned by one of Akane's classmates.
"Ah sweeto, Dojo sweet dojo, come to Happy," Crowed a voice she did not recognize.
Kasumi peaked into the training hall and saw a strange little man counting his sordid prizes in the heart of the room while smoking a pipe. A spark in her synapses told her who it was, the horrific and ancient master from her fathers nightmares...
"Grandfather Happosai," She intoned happily, opening the door and bowing to the man.
He looked surprised at being snuck up on even as a lecherous grin spread along his face. "My word, is that Kasumi-Chan? You've grown into a beautiful woman, why I should-"
"Would you like a back rub, grandfather?"
He stilled, seemingly boggled before, nodding, "Why yes I would actually, such a polite girl, your father clearly raised you right."
Kasumi knelt behind the man, a sweet smile on her lips as the chart Nabiki had pulled from their roof flashed into her memory and she silently thanked Dr Tofu for what she was about to do next.
'The Ultimate Weakness Moxiburn, and a sleepy time Pressure Point, that should do the trick,' she thought hands resting on Happosai's back.
The man preened and boasted, right up until he felt his ability to cycle Chi vanish, but before he could even speak the world went black and he passed out.
With her job done, Kasumi set about returning what had been stolen, she just hoped there was a more permanent solution to the Anything Goes Grand Master.
Three hours later, when her erstwhile ghost hunters returned, still in possession of a magical kettle drum, bereft of any feline spirits for it had been chased away by Ranma-Chan, Kasumi was please to have her solution.
To Travel:
Xian Pu knelt before the table, her tone somber but hopeful, "An ancient Musk artifact. A bag of great wealth an unknown technique, and a wanted criminal... This, this might be enough."
It might be enough alongside her repaid honor debt to return home and see her family again.
Ranma's hand clapped her on the back, "I bet it you it is, but just to be safe, how about everyone who can comes along?"
"You do not have to-"
"But we want to," Akane added, hugging her from behind.
Konatsu slid Xian Pu a drink, the girl was grinning and slightly teary eyed, "Such strong and beautiful bonds of camaraderie. I am truly blessed to have been welcomed into your home and shall join you on this quest, both to aid you, and for myself."
Ukyo waved from his perch, "If Hibiki-Chan showed up, we'd be able to take the whole gang.
It was at that moment that Ryoga happened to march into the back garden, head buried in a map, "So if I turn left here," Ryoga spun around entirely, "Then I should be at the Springs!"
"Why is there only one Spring!?"
Xian Pu couldn't help herself, she began to laugh so hard she almost cried from joy.
To Return:
Nodoka's heart stilled at the sight of the man before her. Master of the Tendo Dojo, father of three daughters and the best friend of the husband she had slain and here she was, standing in his Dojo, answering the door, much to his clear astonishment.
Swallowing, she tensed, ready for anything, "Tendo-San."
He looked at her intently for a moment, his visage was sharper than she recalled, but more aged as well. Thin streaks of grey in his hair and his moustache was missing, as he said, "Nodoka-San, you have nothing to fear from me. I... I may not be happy with how everything transpired last year, but I have made peace with it."
She relaxed, ever so slightly, "I am heartened to welcome you back then, if I confess, still wary of what this means for my daughter."
He blinked owlishly, before nodding, "I see, I see, yes, well, I shan't give your daughter any trouble, in truth I recently started... Attending classes."
That brought a smile to her face, "Ah, one of the classes for parents to understand their children's preferences yes?" At his nod she smiled and let the door open further, "I have been attending those as well, for nearly a year now."
Soun nodded, looking relieved, "I only started recently, but it is already showing me much and I... I wanted to at least visit my children and to offer your daughter my regards." His gaze drifted to the remodeled second story, "I see there's been some changes."
"Indeed, the Dojo is quite crowded these days, its part of why I stay over most weeks, Kasumi-Chan needs to focus on her studies after all and can't be freting after every guest. Though, its not just students either." She stepped back and beckoned him inside, "I do not know what their reaction will be, but I think this shall be well. Especially compared to if you had returned anytime during the last few months."
"I take it I left that poor of an impression?" He said gravely.
"Well yes, but also because your self proclaimed, illegitimate daughters have been staying here for the last two or so months. They have rooms upstairs now."
She shouldn't have bothered finishing that sentence because Soun had already passed out.
Sighing she shook her head, "I did say self proclaimed," before dragging him to the nearest room.
Jusenkyo:
The great valley and planes of Jusenkyo would probably never lose their austere beauty to Ryoga. It was a wonder she had ever mistaken anywhere else for it when even the air felt nearly divine. She was at the heart of their nine strong party, with everyone else ensuring she didn't wander off.
Ukyo having already dived into his Spring was now going shirtless and seemed lost in a blissful daze.
Nabiki was managing to keep up despite her relatively simple training regime and the long hike they took to arrive.
Xian Pu was chattering with her grandmother and Akane in their native toungue, the Japanese born girl trying and somewhat keeping up.
Konatsu was practically bursting with excitement as she peppers their guide with questions, nearly skipping with every step.
Meanwhile Ranma was looking at Ryoga intently as she finished rattling off a rejoinder about fighting the Dojo Destroyer on the road.
"Say Hibiki-Chan, how come your voice is so high now?"
Ryoga blinked, "Oh, you noticed. haha, I wasn't sure it was obvious and it probably sounds weird, but ah. Well," She rubbed the back of her head, "Because I was struggling to find the Spring so much, I started this thing called Voice Training to make my pitch higher."
"You can do that?" Ranma gasped, as Ryog'a nod she clapped him on the back, "Well grats girl, it sounds great on you, super cute!"
Ryoga blushed intensely, "T- Thanks, Ranma-Chan!" Her voice pitched even higher than was becoming custom, which only made Ranma smile brighter.
"And here we are, honored guests," The guide intoned, "First stop on our trip, the Spring of Drowned Girl." He motioned to one spring among many, but Ryoga watched Ranma stride forward, recognition clear in her eyes as she bowed to the Spring.
Ryoga and Konatsu followed suit, each bowing respectfully and in thanks before the Shinobi grasped her hand and they leapt into the water together.
When Ryoga surfaced she still had her hands, her feet, her everything human, but she had something else as well.
A tail, and a great big, incredibly high pitched squeal of joy escaping her lips.
The End:
Ranma had parted ways with her friends over the span of nearly an hour or longer.
Xian Pu, her siblings and Great Gandmother wouldn't be visiting for awhile yet.
The Tendo's had their own business to work through, including the two official, unofficial adoptees.
Konatsu & Ukyo were off on some training mission for a Shinobi Master to help get used to their new bodies.
Ryo-Chan had stumbled across her very excited mother and the Oni descended pair raced off to into the sunset.
Which left Ranma alone with her mother as they walked down the street, cherry blossoms falling around them. Ranma lifted her hands above her head, purring contentedly as she stretched, the gentle sun rays beaming down on her.
Ranma heard a small chuckle escape Nodoka and looked to her mother who just smiled up at her daughter, still perched as usual on the highest spot she could. "Its nothing Ranma-Chan, I just thought you looked so happy and it made me smile."
Chuckling, she flipped down to the ground and offered her mother her hand who took her it and embraced her briefly, before they made their way into the park.
Ranma smiled, squeezing her mothers hand, she murmured, "I am happy."
NOTES:
One thing I wanted to emphasize here is how well... Central Genma has been to Ranma's life, her father, her teacher, her foe and the closest thing she's had to a confidant and home through her entire life. Given people can describe missing even something as horrible as depression because of the familiarity of misery, and how people can etch themselves into your soul whether you want them too or not... Yeah, I couldn't envision Ranma being happy or cavalier about this, especially not so quickly.
And here we get a second Kasumi scene as well as some exploration of Soun's motives. I feel in some fics they are too quick to have Soun write Genma off, but that while in canon he could be critical of Genma and even endanger him later on, they have a long, long history and early Genma wouldn't have eroded his friends faith in him either. Still I wanted to give some depth to his motives beyond being Genma's stooge and I hope I did that.
Oh and yeah, one thing I always feel needs to be kept in mind is that while Akane is a martial artist, she's still had a largely normal upbringing and so I feel should be the most shaken by a lot of stuff surrounding the community. Meanwhile Xian Pu exists on the other end of that spectrum, with Ryoga only a little ways away. Also canonically Nabiki was... Really weird about Nodoka, so I figure parental deaths may be a bit of a trigger for her.
I love everyone getting along.
Thematic vibes with Ranma waking up after dawn after her fathers dead are thematic. I hope. Aaaaaand Nodoka enters the group chat, on a probationary status; also fun aside I debated making Nodoka's ancestor Tsukikage Ran cos that woman is awesome but it seemed like too obscure a reference and that it could undermine the scene. Anyway more seriously, I hope I contextualized Nodoka sufficiently and didn't just write off her very 'traditional' values to make things easier, this is very much her falling apart and wondering how to rebuild herself.
& we have the epilogue, I debated splitting them, but I felt this worked better with how the story had been structured thus far.
The Dragon Whisker subplot finally pays off! It ended up less important than originally planned as my earliest ideas involved everyone basically leaving to form their own school with blackjack and Amazons! It was something like the 'All Styles School' if I recall, but that became unnecessary but I still want the cast to have money, which is good cos with Soun gone, oops, no money from the city council.
I enjoyed the Kodachi scene XD So yeah, when Ukyo slipped away from Ranma that was to cut off Genma's head, this worlds martial cultures can be pretty brutal ya'll. Also he didn't mention that part of the story to Ranma and the Scroll was Umesenken, a nice addition to the stealth archives. I also wanted to give some weight to the fact Xian Pu is canonically essentially exiled until she completes her task and analyze why she's so cavalier about certain social facets.
Say, remember when Nabiki was rummaging through the attic for stuff to use against Genma and found the Moxiburn Weakness points? Cos I do and she handed it to Kasumi XD Also I hate Happosai and try to get him out of the story as quickly as possible. I love Konatsu and needed her to be rescued, by who in this timeline I am not sure, but she's safe and loved and happy. I love those OVA Daughters and always want them to have good lives, so yeah they moved in. Oh yeah Nabiki is studying marital arts, not super intently, but enough that she could at least escape someone like Taro if if came for her, survival is key. Voice training is hard yo.
Oh yeah, I HC Ryo as descended from a mountain Oni cos of the fangs and the mountain having been destroyed being the reason why no one in her clan can find their way anywhere, their internal compass is gone. Amway, here's to the hopefully happy ending for Ranma, I know a lot happened very quickly but I really wanted to complete this story over risk it being left on hiatus forever.
I hope its proven a fun ride, thanks so much for all your support, feedback and for reading!
- Location
- usa
was a good story well done.
Thank you both so much, I am very glad you enjoyed it so much
Strawberry
Dessert Faerie
- Location
- Derbyshire, UK
- Pronouns
- She/Her
Wonderful! Left comment on Ao3 but one here won't hurt ♥
Thank you very much for sharing this with us all
Thank you very much for sharing this with us all
Thank you twice over, I just responded on Ao3 too, ♥
Thanks so much for your support!