The Spring Of Drowned Thief
folder
+M to R › Ranma �
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
25
Views:
13,846
Reviews:
14
Recommended:
1
Currently Reading:
2
Category:
+M to R › Ranma �
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
25
Views:
13,846
Reviews:
14
Recommended:
1
Currently Reading:
2
Disclaimer:
I do not own Ranma, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.
An Emergency Stop
An Emergency Stop
“I’m not sure about this hun? Are you sure this is me? I feel kind of exposed like this…”
“Get over it, you look great Ukyo. I can’t believe you always ware boys close. You’re hot.”
“Err… Thanks Akane… Can you please never say anything like that to me again? I’m not like that…”
“Ok, ok. Sorry, but you do make this look good. I knew strapless was a good idea.”
“If you say so…”
“Still have doubts? 100 yen says Ryouga has a nosebleed when we walk out.”
“What does a nosebleed mean?”
“It means he REALLY likes what he sees… He might black out too…”
“Ok, sugar, you’re on.”
Akane let herself fall behind and let Ukyo walk out the door first. She managed to cook up a sure-fire plan with the bet. “Hey Ryouga, what do you thi-“
SPLOOSH, THUD
Akane popped her breasts back into her dress before Ukyo could turn around and see what really made Ryouga hit the floor with a smile. “Wow darlin’! You weren’t joking!”
“See? He loves it.”
Ukyo stood in front a full-length mirror and looked at herself. “I-I guess, I am good looking…”
“Nothing to worry about then. Lets go have fun!”
“O-ok! Need help carrying him?”
“Yeah, he’s like a sack of hammers when he’s like this.”
“I hope he doesn’t do that again when he wakes up…”
“He’ll be fine, don’t worry. He likes it.”
“Hey! You’re the new girl right?”
“Yes. I help out until we get to China.”
“Good, good. Hey, I have a friend that really likes you, can you dance with him please?”
“Why I have to dance with him?”
“Err… He’s been trying to ask you ever since he got here, but he’s really shy.”
“I no like shy man.”
“Did I say shy? I meant he’s a wild stallion. Easily confused really. Any ways, he really wants to dance with you, I’ll even cover for you if you do it?”
“Why you want us to dance so much?”
“Erk! W-well… You know what… Fine… I was just trying to be nice and find you a great guy, and I do mean GREAT, *sob* but I guess you don’t want to… I’m sorry I even bothered!”
Shampoo felt guilty now, she’d declined this girls offer, and probably ruined any chance at friendship. This had to be resolved… Besides, it would make Mousse jealous and fight for her again. “Wait! I sorry… I no mean to sound like cow. He’s hansom, yes?”
The waitress turned around with an evil grin. “Yes! Yes! Incredibly hansom! He’s got long hair and really hunky!”
“Can dance good?”
“Uhhh, YES!”
“Ok! Shampoo dance, but only dance once ok. Don’t want to get fired.”
‘VIC-TOR-Y!’ “Really!? Promise?”
Shampoo nodded happily. “Yes, I swear on tribe honor.”
“Tribe wha- Never mind. I’ll take you over to him.”
“Ok.”
The intermission was about over and people wanted another dance to commence. The announcer came out just as he did before with that insanely large tie. “Ladies and gentlemen! She’s come all the way from America to sing here tonight. I give you Gloria Estefan!”
The crowd went into hysteria again that night as Gloria stepped onto the stage; she took the microphone and asked how every one was. The question was answered with a screaming uproar. “Whoa! Hey every body, before I get started, I was reading the guest list and as it turns out, an old friend of mine is here tonight. Nodoka Soatome! Are you here some where?”
Nodoka raised an arm. “Hey Gloria! Long time no see! How are you?”
“There she is! I’m doing great! Want to bring the house down like we did before?”
Nodoka thought back and smiled. “I don’t know. It’s been a while…”
Soun’s jaw dropped. “You know Gloria Estefan!?”
He was ignored as Nodoka approached the stage. “I guess I can give it a try. What song are we doing?”
Gloria smiled wide. “The first one we ever wrote together.”
“Conga!? I don’t know… I might not have it in me any more…”
Gloria just waved her up onto stage as well as the crowd seemed to push her up. “You’ll never lose it Nodoka. Now come up here and sing with me.”
“I can’t refuse an offer like that…” With that said, Nodoka was on stage and her komodo came off in an instant revealing some thing that could only be described as a fiesta outfit. It was bright red with gold trim and a few sparkling things that dangled down. It was also quite revealing, and even for a middle-aged woman, she made it look good. Very good. It was at this moment that three teenagers came running in… Well, two ran while one was being dragged.
“Oh, thank god. They haven’t started yet. Hey! Is that Ranma’s mom up on stage!?”
“I think it is sugar… Hey! It’s Gloria Estefan!”
“…so beautiful…”
Ukyo blushed for the third time at Ryouga’s comment. “You’re so sweet darlin. I want the first dance with Ryouga!”
Akane giggled and nodded. “Ok, but don’t think you can hog him all for yourself.”
Ryouga was dragged like a rag doll to the dance floor, not knowing what was going on, but clearly coming back to reality. “H-huh!?”
Gloria and Nodoka stepped up to their microphones and as the trumpets started their rhythm, the two sang in unison.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer”
“Hmmm. Interesting…”
“What is it Kuno baby?”
“My booty seems to have developed a mind of its own. See how my pelvic thrusts on it’s own accord. I may be under the evil sorcerers spell as we speak!”
“Let it stay possessed then. Now grind your hips like you mean it.”
“But my, sly Nabiki Tendo, people might get the wrong-“
“Shut up and do it.”
“Yes ma’am.”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Mousse! When you learn to dance!?”
“Err... Well, I take dance lessons…”
“Shampoo no complain, but why you take lessons?”
“Well… For you I guess…”
“Oh, Mousse… I ONLY DANCE WITH YOU ONCE!”
“May as well make it last.”
“What you sa- Whoa!”
“I must say, for a commoner, you certainly know your herbs and poisons. As of late, I have found myself at a loss for an assistant in my lab.”
“R-really!?”
“Though you are not Ranma, I would let you have the honor of working under me.”
“I-I’d b-b-b-be honored.”
“As you should be! Now dance!”
“Everbody Gather \'round Now
Let Your Body Feel The Heat
Don\'t You Worry If You Can\'t Dance
Let The Music Move Your Feet
It\'s The Rhythm Of The Island And Like The Sugar Cane So Sweet
If You Want To Do The Conga You\'ve Got To Listen To The Beat”
“Thanks Ryouga… You really made my day…”
“H-huh? How?”
Ukyo just smiled and brought herself closer to Ryouga’s chest. “You just did sugar.”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Ok, maybe we do two dance, but only two!”
“Fine by me.” ‘YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!’
“Feel The Fire Of Desire As You Dance The Night Away
\'cause Tonight Were Gonna Party \'til We See The Break Of Day
Better Get Yourself Together And Hold On To What You\'ve Got
Once The Music Hits Your System There\'s No Way Your Gonna Stop”
“Dad!”
“Ah! Akane dear. How are you enjoying yourself?”
“Great! Let’s go grab Kasumi and start a conga line!”
Soun smiled wide. “Hmm, I must say, it’s been a while since there’s been a spontaneous conga line, well… anywhere. We have a mission Akane!”
“Wooo! Let’s go!”
“I feel some thing coming on…”
“Hey, I’m a lady Kuno baby, so treat me like one.”
“Huh? I have no idea what your are talking about Nabiki Tendo, but I was referring to that rather large line of drunkards coming towards us.”
“That would be a conga line Kuno baby… And my dad seems to be leading it.”
“So it is…”
“K-Kasumi-chan…! I-I think your hands are suppose t-to be on my s-shoulders!”
“Oh, my! Are you sure? I always thought they were suppose to be HERE.”
“ACK!”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Hey! Get in here Ukyo!”
“Whoa! When did this happen darlin!?”
“Around the time you two started dirty dancing.”
Both Ryouga and Ukyo blushed a bright red. “My turn Ukyo. Take my place.”
Ukyo smiled gave Ryouga a quick peck on the cheek. “You’re great sugar!” Ukyo and Akane switched places and Ukyo was now in a giant conga line getting ready to circle the top deck. The most outstanding figure in the line was Kuno, with two bottles of tequila and a giant purple and gold sombrero he had some how gotten his hands on.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Looks like it was a success.”
“Umm…”
“What?”
“Well… You know… Why did you do that?”
“Oh, in the change room?”
“Yeah… I didn’t mind, but…”
“Had to win a bet, and I don’t mind showing them off to some one I really like.”
“B-but…”
Akane shut him up with a quick invasion of his lips. “I don’t mind an open relationship between us. I really like it actually.”
“What about Ranma…?”
“That’s the point in an open relationship right? Judging by the video, I can’t help but think it’s the best idea for us. We all love each other right?”
“Yeah, but I can’t help but feel guilty. I wasn’t raised to have two women in my life… I feel like I’m suppose to be beating myself up right now.”
Akane moved Ryouga’s hands down to her waist and looked into his eyes with a look that could melt iron. “You’re hearts in the right place then. I don’t want you to feel guilty and neither does Ranma. At least I don’t think he does.”
“Thanks for that Akane…”
“Good, now what are you suppose to do tonight?”
“Uhh, show you a good time?”
“No.” Akane gave him a warm smile and planted her lips on him again. “You’re going to show me a GREAT time.”
Ryouga vibrated a bit and started his tensing thing again. “W-well, I uhhh, here there’s a m-movie playing, uhh…”
“I’d love to go.”
“Ahh, uhhh… Ok.”
“What did I tell you about being tense?”
“Oh, umm, sorry…”
“Don’t be sorry, just lighten up. I’m just a girl.”
“An unbelievably gorgeous girl, with a killer smile, beautiful hair, soft skin-“
Ryouga was stopped dead in his tracks along with all motion as another kiss hit him, but this time it lasted a lot longer with a smiling girl attached.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
The sound of feet stomping in a conga line to the beat could be heard across the ship and the song came to its climax with the final line along with one final blast from the trumpets.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga”
The crowd went into yet another cheering fit for that night while the captain and the party coordinator were talking. “So, how did you manage to get Gloria Estefan and Stevie Wonder?”
“Well, you wouldn’t believe it, but they just sort of showed up. I asked them if they could play tonight and Gloria agreed to unveil the crest tonight, for free too!”
“You just got yourself a promotion there, John. What happened to our original act?”
“Michel Bolton? I found him tied up in his cabin, and just decided it was for the best. He would have just ruined every thing and no one would have showed up.”
“I feel a pay raise heading your way as well, John.”
“Thank you Captain Murdock!”
Nodoka got back into her kimono and was waving as the crowd embraced her. Gloria jumped off stage with a microphone and started walking towards a middle display that was covered with a large black blanket. “Ok, people. We got a special surprise for you tonight. Tonight we are giving you a glimpse of the legendary Phoenix Crest. Take off the cover Jeeves.” A man in a black suit walked over and pulled back the blanket revealing and red and yellow crest with intriguing designs all over it.
Akane nudged Ryouga. “Doesn’t look like its been taken yet. When do you think he’ll make his move?”
Ryouga shrugged, as his face became stone cold and serious. “I think he already has. Check out Cologne.”
Akane followed Cologne’s piercing eyes across the room. “She’s following Gloria…”
Ryouga looked around quickly. “I hope it’s not actually her…”
“Why?”
“This!” Just then Ryouga stretched his leg high and kicked a tray of drinks into the air and off into Gloria’s direction. All the glasses tipped in the air and came down like a sudden storm on Gloria. She stopped cold in her tracks towards the display as she shrunk about a foot and her hair turned firry red. The crowd looked carefully at her for a few seconds, but no one knew what to think. Gloria had some how shrunk and changed hair color as well as breast size.
“Fucking curse… This body is useless!” With that said, she started a mad dash towards the crest while tearing through the crowd. Cologne intercepted her half way with her staff out and ready.
“The crest is not meant for you child!”
Ranma didn’t even stop and just plowed into Cologne with a powerful kick that not only broke through her staff but also sent her flying back into a bunch of tables. Shampoo gasped and started running over to her grandmother while Mousse went after Ranma. “You won’t get though me!”
“Out of my way kid!” Ranma’s voice came out different then normal. It was more raspy and rugged as oppose to the normal cheer that could be heard. Nodoka stepped in beside Mousse with her katana drawn.
“Listen to your mother, and stop this at once Ranma!”
Ranma kept moving without even batting an eye. Before Nodoka knew what happened her sword was cut in half with the severed tip planted in Mousse’s shoulder. Both Nodoka and Mousse were shoved to the ground as Ranma put a knife into a holder at her side. Her formed shifted back to its normal state as she sent her fist through the bulletproof glass, scattering stray shards of shrapnel into her arm. She grabbed the crest and made it disappear in her hand as she turned towards the door. She almost got a bokken through the neck if not for uncanny speed. “How dare you show such disrespect for sensei! I shall retain her honor and free you from the evil sorcerer Soatome my Pig-tailed goddess!”
“Whatever loser. Nice hat!” She grabbed the business end of Kuno’s stick and pushed it back as hard as she could right into his mouth. Kuno was about to swallow his two front teeth when a sudden kick to the side of the head sent him off into dreamland. “That ought to shut you up!”
A sudden whiffing sound could be heard and Ranma pulled out her knife to block the large spatula just behind her head. “What the hells with all these damn kids attacking me. Couldn’t hire any real guards eh?”
Ukyo’s eye twitched as she pulled back her weapon to ready for another blow. “Kid!? We’re the same age Ranma!”
“I wouldn’t try it. Swing that thing at me again and I’ll cut your fucking throat.” Ranma slowly pulled out a second knife from seemingly nowhere.
Ukyo’s eyes went wide and she took a step back. “W-what’s with you…!?”
Ranma said nothing and just knocked her down at she ran by. She was almost out the door when Ryouga caught her with a clothesline to the chest. She hit the ground and Ryouga was on top of her pinning her down with his arms and legs. “Stop this! Stop hurting every one!”
“You’re the guy that got me wet! This is called revenge bud!” Ranma arched herself a bit and then came up with a solid head butt to Ryouga’s nose. There was a sound of a crunch as Ryouga started leaning back holding his face. “Ruin a perfectly good plan will you!?” Ranma jerked her hips with a jolt of huge power that lifted Ryouga a few inches into the air. Once again Ranma displayed her speed by quickly tucking her legs in and darting them up into Ryouga’s stomach. Ryouga hit the ground gasping for air as she jumped to her feet. “Fucker.”
The people in the crowd had either parted for Ranma or left the scene all together. Ranma started her way off towards the door again, but was confronted by one last thing. “Oh, so there are armed guards here.”
A man in a black suit with a pistol in his hand, and a posse of other guards looking the same, spoke. “Put down the treasure and give yourself up. I’ll only ask once and then we’ll shoot. That treasure does not belong to you.”
“No shit?”
“Put it down and give yourself up!”
“I thought you said you’d only ask once?”
“Don’t play with us. You don’t stand a chance. I have orders to shoot any one that tries to steal it. I’m giving you a grace here, I advise you take it.”
“Shut up and shoot me then.”
“This is your final warning.”
Ranma pulled out her knives and smiled with a blank look on her face. “I guess I’ve been warned.” Ranma started springing forward with her knives ready to kill any thing.
“Take her down!”
A series of gunshots were heard and Ranma’s chest jerked as bullets cut through her skin. Her arms and legs flew back as she took bullets everywhere. The world seemed to slow down, with the exception of the bullets passing through the air and her body. Her teeth gritted and her eyes squeezed shut and the hail of ammo pushed her body back. She fell back against the ground with glassy eyes and a pool or bright red blood surrounding her. A scream from the crowd signaled Akane’s arrival and she ran towards where Ranma fell. She shook her screaming Ranma’s name as she tried to cover up the wounds. Five in the chest, one to four in the arms and legs, along with two shots to the neck. Nodoka was on her way over to her child as well, but stopped when she noticed Ranma’s arm lunge up and around Akane’s neck. Every one gasped as the red head got back on her feet with a smile and knife to Akane’s neck. “Congratulations, you’re the next contestant on Who Wants To Be My Hostage!”
“R-Ranma!? You’re alive!”
“You sound a bit too happy there, girl. Do I know you?”
“H-huh? O-of coarse you know me!”
“Sorry, I’m bad with names kiddo.”
“W-what the hell…?”
One of the men in black suits looked to his superior. “What the hell was that!? We hit her right?”
“How couldn’t we have hit her!?”
“Should we take another shot?”
“She’s got a hostage now. We can’t shoot them you fucking idiot!”
“Ranma… What are you doing?”
“Why does every one keep calling me that, kid? That hotty over there thought she was my mother or some thing.”
“She IS your mother!”
“Sorry, she died 130 years ago or so. I don’t keep track of time much these days. Stop dragging your feet missy. I’m in a hurry.”
“You can’t escape, Ranma. Why don’t you just give up and come home now. Every one’s worried about you. I’m worried about you…”
“I told you, I’m not this Ranma you people keep going on about. Must be the body. Damnit! You’re not being a good hostage right now! Here’s the plan, you be my meat shield while I jump overboard. Got it?”
“Who the hell are you then!? Meat shield!?”
Ranma got ready to push Akane forward and go over the rail. “That’s not your concern, kid. You’ve been great, see ya around sweet stuff.” Ranma made her jump, but was caught short when Akane grabbed Ranma’s belt and pulled her back. Ranma’s face smacked against the railing leaving blood smeared across the white paint.
“You’re not going any where! I don’t want you to leave me again! I know you’re lying!”
Ranma turned with a scowl on her face. “That fucking hurt! You know what!? Play with fire and you get burnt kid! Here’s some thing to remember me by!” Ranma pulled out a knife and quickly sunk it into the top of Akane’s hand and pinned her into the deck. Akane didn’t even let out a scream. She just stared at her hand, went pale and fainted. “That’ll learn you ya mean bitch!” Ranma made her escape overboard and started swimming off to the west.
“About that raise John…”
“…I know Captain Murdock… I know…”
Akane lay in her bed beside Ryouga with her hand in the air, just staring at it. Both had just gotten out of the ship’s infirmary and were now waiting on Mousse. Akane was off in her own land trying to figure out what was wrong with every thing again. Ryouga rolled over careful not to let his nose touch any thing. “So, what did he say to you?”
Akane came back to reality but missed the question. “Huh?”
“What did he say to you?”
“I’m not sure… But it wasn’t him…”
“I know. We’ve all been taking this too lightly. He creamed us all with out breaking a sweat. Cologne was scared.”
“I’m scared too…”
Ryouga wrapped an arm around her and brought her close to himself while speaking soft and low, while holding a few tears back. “This… thing that Ranma’s become… Won’t hurt you again. I swear. I won’t leave your side again. I’m going to protect you until we get Ranma back to normal.”
Akane buried her head in Ryouga’s chest and started letting out a few sniffling sounds. “What if we can’t bring him back?”
“I WILL bring him back. I’ll do what ever it takes.”
Akane let out her tears as Ryouga stroked her head. “Why is he doing this!? How could he do that to us!?”
Ryouga shushed her with a soothing voice. “Because it’s not him. That wasn’t Ranma don’t forget that. It was some greedy bastard in Ranma’s body that did this.”
Akane didn’t say anything and just found it best to cry. She couldn’t think straight and her tears came out confused. Some were because of a broken heart, and others were because of a betrayal. The tears that hurt the most though were the ones for Ranma’s death. He truly seemed gone at this point and nothing could be done to bring him back.
Akane eventually cried herself to sleep and Ryouga took that moment to sneak out of the cabin for some air. He came out just in time to see Shampoo and Mousse walking towards him. He gave a frown at Mousse’s arm buried in a mountain of bandage and a sling. “Feeling better?”
Mousse stopped and leaned on the railing beside Ryouga with Shampoo at his side. “Not really… Hurts like hell. How about you?”
“Just a broken nose, nothing I haven’t had before. How is every one?”
“Every one big wreck now. Cry baby man, go crazy.”
“Mr. Tendo?”
Mousse nudged his head to point behind him. “Yeah. He went nuts when Ranma stabbed Akane. He was half way over the railing getting ready to go after him and kill em’.”
Ryouga crossed his arms and went into thought. “I see… How about the others?”
“Mostly shaken up. Kuno went off into a monolog when he woke up and now he’s down below training like there’s no tomorrow. Not much good if you ask me, but I guess it’s the only thing he can do. The old woman was only slightly injured and luckily Shampoo was out of harms way.”
Wack!
“I no need stupid Mousse’s protection!”
“What about Ukyo and Auntie Soatome?”
“We haven’t seen Ukyo at all, but Miss. Soatome is up with the Doctor and Kasumi, seeing to Mr. Tendo.”
Ryouga looked at Mousse with a raised eyebrow. “Is it really that bad?”
“Cry baby man scary when mad. They try to keep him calm.”
Mousse looked up and gave a thought. “Speaking of which be careful around Miss. Soatome. She may look fine, but she’s about to break any second.”
“I don’t blame her. That attack was absolutely savage…”
At that moment Kuno came around the corner with a look of determination written all over his face. “T’was was more then savage! T’was was a travesty! Honorless at best! You all saw what that cur made the pig-tailed goddess do! Unforgivable!”
“I don’t think its Ranma any more guys…”
“What do you mean?” Every one looked up at Nabiki as a cigarette ash fell from above them.
Ryouga took a deep breath. “He didn’t recognize any of us. Kept calling us kids. Akane mentioned some thing, but she’s asleep now.”
“How doth fair the fair Akane Tendo?”
Ryouga let the grammar error he knew had to be somewhere in there slide and just answered. “Not good at all. It’s more emotional then any thing on her right now. I’m feeling a bit betrayed myself right now. Hey Nabiki. Have you seen Ukyo?”
Nabiki blew some smoke off into the night sky. “No, but I’ll guess she’s either somewhere really high, or really low right now.”
Shampoo scrunched her face in confusion. “Huh? What you mean?”
Ryouga didn’t wait for an answer and just started heading up. “I don’t feel like questioning it right now, but some thing tells me it makes sense.”
“I still no get it…” Ryouga was already gone when Shampoo spoke.
True enough Nabiki was right and Ryouga caught her figure at the top of the smoke stack at the center of the ship. He was never one for climbing a smooth surface, but if she could do it, he’d damn well figure out how as well. He finally got his hand on his first real grip at the top and pulled himself up with his natural strength. “So, this is where you disappeared to.”
Ukyo jumped a bit, not actually noticing Ryouga up until now. “What are you doing up here sugar? It’s dangerous!”
“Same goes to you.”
Ukyo blushed a little and went back into her hunched position looking down. “So why are you up here?”
Ryouga took a seat next to her. “I was just worried that’s all. I was going to ask what’s eatin’ you, but I already know. Want to talk about it?”
“Not really…”
“That’s ok I guess… But in case you’re wondering, that wasn’t really him tonight.”
“I know… I heard what he said to Akane… It just hurt a little…”
“You don’t have to be tough, it’s just the two of us up here. It hurt a lot…”
“Yeah…”
“I wasn’t expecting that either. Akane’s a real mess too…”
“What about you? Don’t you feel like tearing some thing apart too? Don’t you feel like crying? He’s your best friend isn’t he?”
“Yeah. I feel all those things, and he’s more then a best friend to me… I just have to be strong for people right now… Ranma was always strong for every one when he had to be and now I know why, so I’ll be strong in his place. The only time he was fragile was when he was with Akane and then she’d be strong for him. You see where I’m going with this?”
“Kinda… So, you’re being strong for me, until I can stand on my own, so to say?”
Ryouga shrugged. “You can look at it like that I guess. It’s one of those things that you know you have to do, but can’t really put into words. I just know I have to do what ever it is.”
“You can cry if you want sugar… I won’t tell any one…”
Ryouga coughed out a quick laugh and went a bit red. “Err… Sorry… I’m not one to cry. Not even alone. I always had some thing to help me get through it.”
“What?”
“Look up.”
Ukyo looked up into the sky. It was cloudy with a hint of a moon, but no stars could be seen. “Not as great as you hoped, is it hun’?”
Ryouga smiled. “No, not really, but if you get lost as much as me, it’s always nice to see the one thing that doesn’t change on me. As long as I can see that moon, I’m a happy camper.”
Ukyo cracked out a giggle of some sort. “That’s a little romantic sugar. Are you trying to sweep me off my feet?”
Ryouga went bright red and moved away with his hands out. “N-no! I didn’t mean it l-like that. I’m just saying that… Well… I’m cheering you up because… This is coming out all wrong…”
Ukyo giggled again. “I’m just teasing you. I know you have some one special in your life, but I can still say you’re sweat, right?”
“Th-thanks… Sorry, I didn’t mean to go off like that. I never have the right words when I need them.”
Ukyo almost fell off the smoke stack at that. “If that’s what you want to believe sugar… You sure helped me.”
“I-I did?”
“Yup. I’m thinking about your sky now. Wanna show it to me?”
“Huh? Uhh, sure. I think the clouds are parting over there.”
“Looks like rain hun’.”
“Damn…”
“What’s ‘damn’…? Oh, yeah. I guess you want to get out of here before you change.”
“Yeah, I’ve managed to stay human for a while now, and considering I’m on a boat, this is ground breaking for me. Wait… How do we get down?”
“I’m just going to slide down, it’s sloped anyways. You coming sugar?”
“I’m going to kill myself if I do this…”
“How about I carry you down?”
“How are you going to carry me do- damn… And I’ve been dry for so long…”
“We all have to make sacrifices some times darlin’. I chased him for almost ten years remember?”
“Yeah, yeah… Great… Here it comes. Please grab the suit when I change…”
“No problem.”
A drenched piglet made its way into the cabin and struggled to get on its bed making the occasional ‘Bwee!’ sound. Akane awoke to the sound of shuffling and a storm outside. “Ryouga?”
“Bwee!”
“Bwee? You want some hot water Ryouga?”
“Bwee! Bwee!”
“Ok, just hold on a second.”
Akane turned on her electric teakettle and leaned against the wall with her hands crossed over her stomach in silence. Ryouga paced a few steps and soon the kettle clicked. “Here.”
“Bwee!”
Akane watched Ryouga grow and stand up. “Thanks Akane. I got lost and couldn’t make it back in time… What?”
Ryouga followed Akane’s eyes and took note of where she was looking. “Jesus! Sorry! I forgot about clothes! I didn’t mean to…!” Ryouga flung the blanket from his bed around his waist as fast as he could. Akane didn’t flinch as she walked slowly over to him and wrapped her arms around his shoulders.
“W-what are you doing Akane…?”
She didn’t answer and instead started kissing him and pulling his blanket down. “A-Akane…”
He started returning the kisses and slowly let his arms rest on her waist. Her kisses broke for a moment, as she looked him in the eyes with tears and whispered. “Make me forget Ryouga… Make me feel good…”
Ryouga’s eyes went wide and he tried his best to push away. “N-no Akane…! Not like this… I won’t help you this way… It’s not right…”
Her lips explore every curve of his face leaving a wake of white then red. “But we’ve done it already… Just do it again and we’ll both be happy…”
“N-not if it’s meaningless… I won’t let you do this to yourself…”
“Then how come you’re not resisting me…?”
“I’m weak… I don’t want you to do this… I’ll give in and we’ll both regret it…”
Akane let her hand slide down Ryouga’s toned stomach and closer to his weakness. “Please stop Akane…”
“Kiss me back… Let me know you love me…”
“God, I do love you, but…”
“Then hold me closer…”
Ryouga held her tighter as her hands explored him and his did her. Ryouga suddenly ignored his temptation and pushed Akane back. He held her shoulders firmly keeping her still. “No! I… I won’t let you act like some thing you’re not. Please stop this… You’re in love with Ranma… Not me… You’re venting…”
Akane raised her good hand to Ryouga’s cheek with a smile and leaned in to his ear. “I love you…”
Whatever defense Ryouga had as well as will power melted away. Akane came in close again and went back to skimming her hands around his leg. “I want to do this with you… I love you just as much as Ranma. I just want to forget this horrible night…”
Ryouga let his hands creep up her shirt and started to slowly massage her breasts. “I’m sorry I’m so weak Akane… Please forgive me…”
“You’re not weak… You’re in love…”
The two sunk down on the bed exchanging kisses and playful touches. Akane giggled a little which only melted his heart even more. Ryouga stroked his fingers along her bare skin bringing out sensations all over her body. Every thing slowed down in the world just for them and this moment. The moonlight came through a small port hole giving them a deep blue spot light. Their lips met again and again, each time bringing them closer to each other, until it was time. “Be slow and gentle with me… I want it to last… I want you to make me feel alive…” Ryouga didn’t answer, too ashamed of himself and what he was doing. He hated himself for taking advantage her, but at the same time, he loved it and yearned for it. As soon as he heard her moan the first time he knew he was trapped until it was over and they’d both satisfied their needs.
“I love you Akane…”
“I’m not sure about this hun? Are you sure this is me? I feel kind of exposed like this…”
“Get over it, you look great Ukyo. I can’t believe you always ware boys close. You’re hot.”
“Err… Thanks Akane… Can you please never say anything like that to me again? I’m not like that…”
“Ok, ok. Sorry, but you do make this look good. I knew strapless was a good idea.”
“If you say so…”
“Still have doubts? 100 yen says Ryouga has a nosebleed when we walk out.”
“What does a nosebleed mean?”
“It means he REALLY likes what he sees… He might black out too…”
“Ok, sugar, you’re on.”
Akane let herself fall behind and let Ukyo walk out the door first. She managed to cook up a sure-fire plan with the bet. “Hey Ryouga, what do you thi-“
SPLOOSH, THUD
Akane popped her breasts back into her dress before Ukyo could turn around and see what really made Ryouga hit the floor with a smile. “Wow darlin’! You weren’t joking!”
“See? He loves it.”
Ukyo stood in front a full-length mirror and looked at herself. “I-I guess, I am good looking…”
“Nothing to worry about then. Lets go have fun!”
“O-ok! Need help carrying him?”
“Yeah, he’s like a sack of hammers when he’s like this.”
“I hope he doesn’t do that again when he wakes up…”
“He’ll be fine, don’t worry. He likes it.”
“Hey! You’re the new girl right?”
“Yes. I help out until we get to China.”
“Good, good. Hey, I have a friend that really likes you, can you dance with him please?”
“Why I have to dance with him?”
“Err… He’s been trying to ask you ever since he got here, but he’s really shy.”
“I no like shy man.”
“Did I say shy? I meant he’s a wild stallion. Easily confused really. Any ways, he really wants to dance with you, I’ll even cover for you if you do it?”
“Why you want us to dance so much?”
“Erk! W-well… You know what… Fine… I was just trying to be nice and find you a great guy, and I do mean GREAT, *sob* but I guess you don’t want to… I’m sorry I even bothered!”
Shampoo felt guilty now, she’d declined this girls offer, and probably ruined any chance at friendship. This had to be resolved… Besides, it would make Mousse jealous and fight for her again. “Wait! I sorry… I no mean to sound like cow. He’s hansom, yes?”
The waitress turned around with an evil grin. “Yes! Yes! Incredibly hansom! He’s got long hair and really hunky!”
“Can dance good?”
“Uhhh, YES!”
“Ok! Shampoo dance, but only dance once ok. Don’t want to get fired.”
‘VIC-TOR-Y!’ “Really!? Promise?”
Shampoo nodded happily. “Yes, I swear on tribe honor.”
“Tribe wha- Never mind. I’ll take you over to him.”
“Ok.”
The intermission was about over and people wanted another dance to commence. The announcer came out just as he did before with that insanely large tie. “Ladies and gentlemen! She’s come all the way from America to sing here tonight. I give you Gloria Estefan!”
The crowd went into hysteria again that night as Gloria stepped onto the stage; she took the microphone and asked how every one was. The question was answered with a screaming uproar. “Whoa! Hey every body, before I get started, I was reading the guest list and as it turns out, an old friend of mine is here tonight. Nodoka Soatome! Are you here some where?”
Nodoka raised an arm. “Hey Gloria! Long time no see! How are you?”
“There she is! I’m doing great! Want to bring the house down like we did before?”
Nodoka thought back and smiled. “I don’t know. It’s been a while…”
Soun’s jaw dropped. “You know Gloria Estefan!?”
He was ignored as Nodoka approached the stage. “I guess I can give it a try. What song are we doing?”
Gloria smiled wide. “The first one we ever wrote together.”
“Conga!? I don’t know… I might not have it in me any more…”
Gloria just waved her up onto stage as well as the crowd seemed to push her up. “You’ll never lose it Nodoka. Now come up here and sing with me.”
“I can’t refuse an offer like that…” With that said, Nodoka was on stage and her komodo came off in an instant revealing some thing that could only be described as a fiesta outfit. It was bright red with gold trim and a few sparkling things that dangled down. It was also quite revealing, and even for a middle-aged woman, she made it look good. Very good. It was at this moment that three teenagers came running in… Well, two ran while one was being dragged.
“Oh, thank god. They haven’t started yet. Hey! Is that Ranma’s mom up on stage!?”
“I think it is sugar… Hey! It’s Gloria Estefan!”
“…so beautiful…”
Ukyo blushed for the third time at Ryouga’s comment. “You’re so sweet darlin. I want the first dance with Ryouga!”
Akane giggled and nodded. “Ok, but don’t think you can hog him all for yourself.”
Ryouga was dragged like a rag doll to the dance floor, not knowing what was going on, but clearly coming back to reality. “H-huh!?”
Gloria and Nodoka stepped up to their microphones and as the trumpets started their rhythm, the two sang in unison.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer”
“Hmmm. Interesting…”
“What is it Kuno baby?”
“My booty seems to have developed a mind of its own. See how my pelvic thrusts on it’s own accord. I may be under the evil sorcerers spell as we speak!”
“Let it stay possessed then. Now grind your hips like you mean it.”
“But my, sly Nabiki Tendo, people might get the wrong-“
“Shut up and do it.”
“Yes ma’am.”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Mousse! When you learn to dance!?”
“Err... Well, I take dance lessons…”
“Shampoo no complain, but why you take lessons?”
“Well… For you I guess…”
“Oh, Mousse… I ONLY DANCE WITH YOU ONCE!”
“May as well make it last.”
“What you sa- Whoa!”
“I must say, for a commoner, you certainly know your herbs and poisons. As of late, I have found myself at a loss for an assistant in my lab.”
“R-really!?”
“Though you are not Ranma, I would let you have the honor of working under me.”
“I-I’d b-b-b-be honored.”
“As you should be! Now dance!”
“Everbody Gather \'round Now
Let Your Body Feel The Heat
Don\'t You Worry If You Can\'t Dance
Let The Music Move Your Feet
It\'s The Rhythm Of The Island And Like The Sugar Cane So Sweet
If You Want To Do The Conga You\'ve Got To Listen To The Beat”
“Thanks Ryouga… You really made my day…”
“H-huh? How?”
Ukyo just smiled and brought herself closer to Ryouga’s chest. “You just did sugar.”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Ok, maybe we do two dance, but only two!”
“Fine by me.” ‘YES! YES! YES! YES! YES!’
“Feel The Fire Of Desire As You Dance The Night Away
\'cause Tonight Were Gonna Party \'til We See The Break Of Day
Better Get Yourself Together And Hold On To What You\'ve Got
Once The Music Hits Your System There\'s No Way Your Gonna Stop”
“Dad!”
“Ah! Akane dear. How are you enjoying yourself?”
“Great! Let’s go grab Kasumi and start a conga line!”
Soun smiled wide. “Hmm, I must say, it’s been a while since there’s been a spontaneous conga line, well… anywhere. We have a mission Akane!”
“Wooo! Let’s go!”
“I feel some thing coming on…”
“Hey, I’m a lady Kuno baby, so treat me like one.”
“Huh? I have no idea what your are talking about Nabiki Tendo, but I was referring to that rather large line of drunkards coming towards us.”
“That would be a conga line Kuno baby… And my dad seems to be leading it.”
“So it is…”
“K-Kasumi-chan…! I-I think your hands are suppose t-to be on my s-shoulders!”
“Oh, my! Are you sure? I always thought they were suppose to be HERE.”
“ACK!”
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Hey! Get in here Ukyo!”
“Whoa! When did this happen darlin!?”
“Around the time you two started dirty dancing.”
Both Ryouga and Ukyo blushed a bright red. “My turn Ukyo. Take my place.”
Ukyo smiled gave Ryouga a quick peck on the cheek. “You’re great sugar!” Ukyo and Akane switched places and Ukyo was now in a giant conga line getting ready to circle the top deck. The most outstanding figure in the line was Kuno, with two bottles of tequila and a giant purple and gold sombrero he had some how gotten his hands on.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
“Looks like it was a success.”
“Umm…”
“What?”
“Well… You know… Why did you do that?”
“Oh, in the change room?”
“Yeah… I didn’t mind, but…”
“Had to win a bet, and I don’t mind showing them off to some one I really like.”
“B-but…”
Akane shut him up with a quick invasion of his lips. “I don’t mind an open relationship between us. I really like it actually.”
“What about Ranma…?”
“That’s the point in an open relationship right? Judging by the video, I can’t help but think it’s the best idea for us. We all love each other right?”
“Yeah, but I can’t help but feel guilty. I wasn’t raised to have two women in my life… I feel like I’m suppose to be beating myself up right now.”
Akane moved Ryouga’s hands down to her waist and looked into his eyes with a look that could melt iron. “You’re hearts in the right place then. I don’t want you to feel guilty and neither does Ranma. At least I don’t think he does.”
“Thanks for that Akane…”
“Good, now what are you suppose to do tonight?”
“Uhh, show you a good time?”
“No.” Akane gave him a warm smile and planted her lips on him again. “You’re going to show me a GREAT time.”
Ryouga vibrated a bit and started his tensing thing again. “W-well, I uhhh, here there’s a m-movie playing, uhh…”
“I’d love to go.”
“Ahh, uhhh… Ok.”
“What did I tell you about being tense?”
“Oh, umm, sorry…”
“Don’t be sorry, just lighten up. I’m just a girl.”
“An unbelievably gorgeous girl, with a killer smile, beautiful hair, soft skin-“
Ryouga was stopped dead in his tracks along with all motion as another kiss hit him, but this time it lasted a lot longer with a smiling girl attached.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga
I Know You Can\'t Control Yourself Any Longer
Feel The Rhythm Of The Music Getting Stronger
Don\'t You Fight It \'til You Tried It Do That Conga Beat”
The sound of feet stomping in a conga line to the beat could be heard across the ship and the song came to its climax with the final line along with one final blast from the trumpets.
“Come On Shake Your Body Baby Do The Conga”
The crowd went into yet another cheering fit for that night while the captain and the party coordinator were talking. “So, how did you manage to get Gloria Estefan and Stevie Wonder?”
“Well, you wouldn’t believe it, but they just sort of showed up. I asked them if they could play tonight and Gloria agreed to unveil the crest tonight, for free too!”
“You just got yourself a promotion there, John. What happened to our original act?”
“Michel Bolton? I found him tied up in his cabin, and just decided it was for the best. He would have just ruined every thing and no one would have showed up.”
“I feel a pay raise heading your way as well, John.”
“Thank you Captain Murdock!”
Nodoka got back into her kimono and was waving as the crowd embraced her. Gloria jumped off stage with a microphone and started walking towards a middle display that was covered with a large black blanket. “Ok, people. We got a special surprise for you tonight. Tonight we are giving you a glimpse of the legendary Phoenix Crest. Take off the cover Jeeves.” A man in a black suit walked over and pulled back the blanket revealing and red and yellow crest with intriguing designs all over it.
Akane nudged Ryouga. “Doesn’t look like its been taken yet. When do you think he’ll make his move?”
Ryouga shrugged, as his face became stone cold and serious. “I think he already has. Check out Cologne.”
Akane followed Cologne’s piercing eyes across the room. “She’s following Gloria…”
Ryouga looked around quickly. “I hope it’s not actually her…”
“Why?”
“This!” Just then Ryouga stretched his leg high and kicked a tray of drinks into the air and off into Gloria’s direction. All the glasses tipped in the air and came down like a sudden storm on Gloria. She stopped cold in her tracks towards the display as she shrunk about a foot and her hair turned firry red. The crowd looked carefully at her for a few seconds, but no one knew what to think. Gloria had some how shrunk and changed hair color as well as breast size.
“Fucking curse… This body is useless!” With that said, she started a mad dash towards the crest while tearing through the crowd. Cologne intercepted her half way with her staff out and ready.
“The crest is not meant for you child!”
Ranma didn’t even stop and just plowed into Cologne with a powerful kick that not only broke through her staff but also sent her flying back into a bunch of tables. Shampoo gasped and started running over to her grandmother while Mousse went after Ranma. “You won’t get though me!”
“Out of my way kid!” Ranma’s voice came out different then normal. It was more raspy and rugged as oppose to the normal cheer that could be heard. Nodoka stepped in beside Mousse with her katana drawn.
“Listen to your mother, and stop this at once Ranma!”
Ranma kept moving without even batting an eye. Before Nodoka knew what happened her sword was cut in half with the severed tip planted in Mousse’s shoulder. Both Nodoka and Mousse were shoved to the ground as Ranma put a knife into a holder at her side. Her formed shifted back to its normal state as she sent her fist through the bulletproof glass, scattering stray shards of shrapnel into her arm. She grabbed the crest and made it disappear in her hand as she turned towards the door. She almost got a bokken through the neck if not for uncanny speed. “How dare you show such disrespect for sensei! I shall retain her honor and free you from the evil sorcerer Soatome my Pig-tailed goddess!”
“Whatever loser. Nice hat!” She grabbed the business end of Kuno’s stick and pushed it back as hard as she could right into his mouth. Kuno was about to swallow his two front teeth when a sudden kick to the side of the head sent him off into dreamland. “That ought to shut you up!”
A sudden whiffing sound could be heard and Ranma pulled out her knife to block the large spatula just behind her head. “What the hells with all these damn kids attacking me. Couldn’t hire any real guards eh?”
Ukyo’s eye twitched as she pulled back her weapon to ready for another blow. “Kid!? We’re the same age Ranma!”
“I wouldn’t try it. Swing that thing at me again and I’ll cut your fucking throat.” Ranma slowly pulled out a second knife from seemingly nowhere.
Ukyo’s eyes went wide and she took a step back. “W-what’s with you…!?”
Ranma said nothing and just knocked her down at she ran by. She was almost out the door when Ryouga caught her with a clothesline to the chest. She hit the ground and Ryouga was on top of her pinning her down with his arms and legs. “Stop this! Stop hurting every one!”
“You’re the guy that got me wet! This is called revenge bud!” Ranma arched herself a bit and then came up with a solid head butt to Ryouga’s nose. There was a sound of a crunch as Ryouga started leaning back holding his face. “Ruin a perfectly good plan will you!?” Ranma jerked her hips with a jolt of huge power that lifted Ryouga a few inches into the air. Once again Ranma displayed her speed by quickly tucking her legs in and darting them up into Ryouga’s stomach. Ryouga hit the ground gasping for air as she jumped to her feet. “Fucker.”
The people in the crowd had either parted for Ranma or left the scene all together. Ranma started her way off towards the door again, but was confronted by one last thing. “Oh, so there are armed guards here.”
A man in a black suit with a pistol in his hand, and a posse of other guards looking the same, spoke. “Put down the treasure and give yourself up. I’ll only ask once and then we’ll shoot. That treasure does not belong to you.”
“No shit?”
“Put it down and give yourself up!”
“I thought you said you’d only ask once?”
“Don’t play with us. You don’t stand a chance. I have orders to shoot any one that tries to steal it. I’m giving you a grace here, I advise you take it.”
“Shut up and shoot me then.”
“This is your final warning.”
Ranma pulled out her knives and smiled with a blank look on her face. “I guess I’ve been warned.” Ranma started springing forward with her knives ready to kill any thing.
“Take her down!”
A series of gunshots were heard and Ranma’s chest jerked as bullets cut through her skin. Her arms and legs flew back as she took bullets everywhere. The world seemed to slow down, with the exception of the bullets passing through the air and her body. Her teeth gritted and her eyes squeezed shut and the hail of ammo pushed her body back. She fell back against the ground with glassy eyes and a pool or bright red blood surrounding her. A scream from the crowd signaled Akane’s arrival and she ran towards where Ranma fell. She shook her screaming Ranma’s name as she tried to cover up the wounds. Five in the chest, one to four in the arms and legs, along with two shots to the neck. Nodoka was on her way over to her child as well, but stopped when she noticed Ranma’s arm lunge up and around Akane’s neck. Every one gasped as the red head got back on her feet with a smile and knife to Akane’s neck. “Congratulations, you’re the next contestant on Who Wants To Be My Hostage!”
“R-Ranma!? You’re alive!”
“You sound a bit too happy there, girl. Do I know you?”
“H-huh? O-of coarse you know me!”
“Sorry, I’m bad with names kiddo.”
“W-what the hell…?”
One of the men in black suits looked to his superior. “What the hell was that!? We hit her right?”
“How couldn’t we have hit her!?”
“Should we take another shot?”
“She’s got a hostage now. We can’t shoot them you fucking idiot!”
“Ranma… What are you doing?”
“Why does every one keep calling me that, kid? That hotty over there thought she was my mother or some thing.”
“She IS your mother!”
“Sorry, she died 130 years ago or so. I don’t keep track of time much these days. Stop dragging your feet missy. I’m in a hurry.”
“You can’t escape, Ranma. Why don’t you just give up and come home now. Every one’s worried about you. I’m worried about you…”
“I told you, I’m not this Ranma you people keep going on about. Must be the body. Damnit! You’re not being a good hostage right now! Here’s the plan, you be my meat shield while I jump overboard. Got it?”
“Who the hell are you then!? Meat shield!?”
Ranma got ready to push Akane forward and go over the rail. “That’s not your concern, kid. You’ve been great, see ya around sweet stuff.” Ranma made her jump, but was caught short when Akane grabbed Ranma’s belt and pulled her back. Ranma’s face smacked against the railing leaving blood smeared across the white paint.
“You’re not going any where! I don’t want you to leave me again! I know you’re lying!”
Ranma turned with a scowl on her face. “That fucking hurt! You know what!? Play with fire and you get burnt kid! Here’s some thing to remember me by!” Ranma pulled out a knife and quickly sunk it into the top of Akane’s hand and pinned her into the deck. Akane didn’t even let out a scream. She just stared at her hand, went pale and fainted. “That’ll learn you ya mean bitch!” Ranma made her escape overboard and started swimming off to the west.
“About that raise John…”
“…I know Captain Murdock… I know…”
Akane lay in her bed beside Ryouga with her hand in the air, just staring at it. Both had just gotten out of the ship’s infirmary and were now waiting on Mousse. Akane was off in her own land trying to figure out what was wrong with every thing again. Ryouga rolled over careful not to let his nose touch any thing. “So, what did he say to you?”
Akane came back to reality but missed the question. “Huh?”
“What did he say to you?”
“I’m not sure… But it wasn’t him…”
“I know. We’ve all been taking this too lightly. He creamed us all with out breaking a sweat. Cologne was scared.”
“I’m scared too…”
Ryouga wrapped an arm around her and brought her close to himself while speaking soft and low, while holding a few tears back. “This… thing that Ranma’s become… Won’t hurt you again. I swear. I won’t leave your side again. I’m going to protect you until we get Ranma back to normal.”
Akane buried her head in Ryouga’s chest and started letting out a few sniffling sounds. “What if we can’t bring him back?”
“I WILL bring him back. I’ll do what ever it takes.”
Akane let out her tears as Ryouga stroked her head. “Why is he doing this!? How could he do that to us!?”
Ryouga shushed her with a soothing voice. “Because it’s not him. That wasn’t Ranma don’t forget that. It was some greedy bastard in Ranma’s body that did this.”
Akane didn’t say anything and just found it best to cry. She couldn’t think straight and her tears came out confused. Some were because of a broken heart, and others were because of a betrayal. The tears that hurt the most though were the ones for Ranma’s death. He truly seemed gone at this point and nothing could be done to bring him back.
Akane eventually cried herself to sleep and Ryouga took that moment to sneak out of the cabin for some air. He came out just in time to see Shampoo and Mousse walking towards him. He gave a frown at Mousse’s arm buried in a mountain of bandage and a sling. “Feeling better?”
Mousse stopped and leaned on the railing beside Ryouga with Shampoo at his side. “Not really… Hurts like hell. How about you?”
“Just a broken nose, nothing I haven’t had before. How is every one?”
“Every one big wreck now. Cry baby man, go crazy.”
“Mr. Tendo?”
Mousse nudged his head to point behind him. “Yeah. He went nuts when Ranma stabbed Akane. He was half way over the railing getting ready to go after him and kill em’.”
Ryouga crossed his arms and went into thought. “I see… How about the others?”
“Mostly shaken up. Kuno went off into a monolog when he woke up and now he’s down below training like there’s no tomorrow. Not much good if you ask me, but I guess it’s the only thing he can do. The old woman was only slightly injured and luckily Shampoo was out of harms way.”
Wack!
“I no need stupid Mousse’s protection!”
“What about Ukyo and Auntie Soatome?”
“We haven’t seen Ukyo at all, but Miss. Soatome is up with the Doctor and Kasumi, seeing to Mr. Tendo.”
Ryouga looked at Mousse with a raised eyebrow. “Is it really that bad?”
“Cry baby man scary when mad. They try to keep him calm.”
Mousse looked up and gave a thought. “Speaking of which be careful around Miss. Soatome. She may look fine, but she’s about to break any second.”
“I don’t blame her. That attack was absolutely savage…”
At that moment Kuno came around the corner with a look of determination written all over his face. “T’was was more then savage! T’was was a travesty! Honorless at best! You all saw what that cur made the pig-tailed goddess do! Unforgivable!”
“I don’t think its Ranma any more guys…”
“What do you mean?” Every one looked up at Nabiki as a cigarette ash fell from above them.
Ryouga took a deep breath. “He didn’t recognize any of us. Kept calling us kids. Akane mentioned some thing, but she’s asleep now.”
“How doth fair the fair Akane Tendo?”
Ryouga let the grammar error he knew had to be somewhere in there slide and just answered. “Not good at all. It’s more emotional then any thing on her right now. I’m feeling a bit betrayed myself right now. Hey Nabiki. Have you seen Ukyo?”
Nabiki blew some smoke off into the night sky. “No, but I’ll guess she’s either somewhere really high, or really low right now.”
Shampoo scrunched her face in confusion. “Huh? What you mean?”
Ryouga didn’t wait for an answer and just started heading up. “I don’t feel like questioning it right now, but some thing tells me it makes sense.”
“I still no get it…” Ryouga was already gone when Shampoo spoke.
True enough Nabiki was right and Ryouga caught her figure at the top of the smoke stack at the center of the ship. He was never one for climbing a smooth surface, but if she could do it, he’d damn well figure out how as well. He finally got his hand on his first real grip at the top and pulled himself up with his natural strength. “So, this is where you disappeared to.”
Ukyo jumped a bit, not actually noticing Ryouga up until now. “What are you doing up here sugar? It’s dangerous!”
“Same goes to you.”
Ukyo blushed a little and went back into her hunched position looking down. “So why are you up here?”
Ryouga took a seat next to her. “I was just worried that’s all. I was going to ask what’s eatin’ you, but I already know. Want to talk about it?”
“Not really…”
“That’s ok I guess… But in case you’re wondering, that wasn’t really him tonight.”
“I know… I heard what he said to Akane… It just hurt a little…”
“You don’t have to be tough, it’s just the two of us up here. It hurt a lot…”
“Yeah…”
“I wasn’t expecting that either. Akane’s a real mess too…”
“What about you? Don’t you feel like tearing some thing apart too? Don’t you feel like crying? He’s your best friend isn’t he?”
“Yeah. I feel all those things, and he’s more then a best friend to me… I just have to be strong for people right now… Ranma was always strong for every one when he had to be and now I know why, so I’ll be strong in his place. The only time he was fragile was when he was with Akane and then she’d be strong for him. You see where I’m going with this?”
“Kinda… So, you’re being strong for me, until I can stand on my own, so to say?”
Ryouga shrugged. “You can look at it like that I guess. It’s one of those things that you know you have to do, but can’t really put into words. I just know I have to do what ever it is.”
“You can cry if you want sugar… I won’t tell any one…”
Ryouga coughed out a quick laugh and went a bit red. “Err… Sorry… I’m not one to cry. Not even alone. I always had some thing to help me get through it.”
“What?”
“Look up.”
Ukyo looked up into the sky. It was cloudy with a hint of a moon, but no stars could be seen. “Not as great as you hoped, is it hun’?”
Ryouga smiled. “No, not really, but if you get lost as much as me, it’s always nice to see the one thing that doesn’t change on me. As long as I can see that moon, I’m a happy camper.”
Ukyo cracked out a giggle of some sort. “That’s a little romantic sugar. Are you trying to sweep me off my feet?”
Ryouga went bright red and moved away with his hands out. “N-no! I didn’t mean it l-like that. I’m just saying that… Well… I’m cheering you up because… This is coming out all wrong…”
Ukyo giggled again. “I’m just teasing you. I know you have some one special in your life, but I can still say you’re sweat, right?”
“Th-thanks… Sorry, I didn’t mean to go off like that. I never have the right words when I need them.”
Ukyo almost fell off the smoke stack at that. “If that’s what you want to believe sugar… You sure helped me.”
“I-I did?”
“Yup. I’m thinking about your sky now. Wanna show it to me?”
“Huh? Uhh, sure. I think the clouds are parting over there.”
“Looks like rain hun’.”
“Damn…”
“What’s ‘damn’…? Oh, yeah. I guess you want to get out of here before you change.”
“Yeah, I’ve managed to stay human for a while now, and considering I’m on a boat, this is ground breaking for me. Wait… How do we get down?”
“I’m just going to slide down, it’s sloped anyways. You coming sugar?”
“I’m going to kill myself if I do this…”
“How about I carry you down?”
“How are you going to carry me do- damn… And I’ve been dry for so long…”
“We all have to make sacrifices some times darlin’. I chased him for almost ten years remember?”
“Yeah, yeah… Great… Here it comes. Please grab the suit when I change…”
“No problem.”
A drenched piglet made its way into the cabin and struggled to get on its bed making the occasional ‘Bwee!’ sound. Akane awoke to the sound of shuffling and a storm outside. “Ryouga?”
“Bwee!”
“Bwee? You want some hot water Ryouga?”
“Bwee! Bwee!”
“Ok, just hold on a second.”
Akane turned on her electric teakettle and leaned against the wall with her hands crossed over her stomach in silence. Ryouga paced a few steps and soon the kettle clicked. “Here.”
“Bwee!”
Akane watched Ryouga grow and stand up. “Thanks Akane. I got lost and couldn’t make it back in time… What?”
Ryouga followed Akane’s eyes and took note of where she was looking. “Jesus! Sorry! I forgot about clothes! I didn’t mean to…!” Ryouga flung the blanket from his bed around his waist as fast as he could. Akane didn’t flinch as she walked slowly over to him and wrapped her arms around his shoulders.
“W-what are you doing Akane…?”
She didn’t answer and instead started kissing him and pulling his blanket down. “A-Akane…”
He started returning the kisses and slowly let his arms rest on her waist. Her kisses broke for a moment, as she looked him in the eyes with tears and whispered. “Make me forget Ryouga… Make me feel good…”
Ryouga’s eyes went wide and he tried his best to push away. “N-no Akane…! Not like this… I won’t help you this way… It’s not right…”
Her lips explore every curve of his face leaving a wake of white then red. “But we’ve done it already… Just do it again and we’ll both be happy…”
“N-not if it’s meaningless… I won’t let you do this to yourself…”
“Then how come you’re not resisting me…?”
“I’m weak… I don’t want you to do this… I’ll give in and we’ll both regret it…”
Akane let her hand slide down Ryouga’s toned stomach and closer to his weakness. “Please stop Akane…”
“Kiss me back… Let me know you love me…”
“God, I do love you, but…”
“Then hold me closer…”
Ryouga held her tighter as her hands explored him and his did her. Ryouga suddenly ignored his temptation and pushed Akane back. He held her shoulders firmly keeping her still. “No! I… I won’t let you act like some thing you’re not. Please stop this… You’re in love with Ranma… Not me… You’re venting…”
Akane raised her good hand to Ryouga’s cheek with a smile and leaned in to his ear. “I love you…”
Whatever defense Ryouga had as well as will power melted away. Akane came in close again and went back to skimming her hands around his leg. “I want to do this with you… I love you just as much as Ranma. I just want to forget this horrible night…”
Ryouga let his hands creep up her shirt and started to slowly massage her breasts. “I’m sorry I’m so weak Akane… Please forgive me…”
“You’re not weak… You’re in love…”
The two sunk down on the bed exchanging kisses and playful touches. Akane giggled a little which only melted his heart even more. Ryouga stroked his fingers along her bare skin bringing out sensations all over her body. Every thing slowed down in the world just for them and this moment. The moonlight came through a small port hole giving them a deep blue spot light. Their lips met again and again, each time bringing them closer to each other, until it was time. “Be slow and gentle with me… I want it to last… I want you to make me feel alive…” Ryouga didn’t answer, too ashamed of himself and what he was doing. He hated himself for taking advantage her, but at the same time, he loved it and yearned for it. As soon as he heard her moan the first time he knew he was trapped until it was over and they’d both satisfied their needs.
“I love you Akane…”