Heere's a little story a friend of mine started. He has been without a
computer for the past few months and has been unable to continue it. Now
he does have a computer again to work on but he's currently at a loss as to
where to go from what he's written. If any of you could send me some feed
back for him, I'm sure it would be a great help.
Eric "Toma/Crissik" Gondolf
crissik@tstonramp.com
--------------------------------------------------
Ranma 1/2 Fan Fiction Series--"Caretaker of the Rose"
5/20/96--Christopher Lee, aka "The Blue Mage"
Most Characters created by Rumiko Takahashi, The rest are my fault. Special
Thanks to John Biles and all the other authors of the Elsewhere Series for
the inspiration.
...
[Episode 1-A Man in Blue]
[We are looking down at the deceptively peaceful looking Tendo Dojo. The
sun is shining, the birds can be heard singing, and the fish pond's water
looks clear and blue. On a nearby road we can see a guy carrying a broom
heading for the house. As we pan closer, we see that it is a slightly
heavily built teenager wearing blue jeans and a blue collared shirt, a
heavy traveling backpack on his back. We see him arrive at the front gate
of the dojo, and then the camera closes to his face. He has curly brown
hair and blue eyes, and a look of resignation on his face. He reaches back
into his backpack and pulls out a piece of paper. After checking the
address against the paper, he raises his hand to open the gate. Before he
can open it however, it flys open and Ranma runs out.]
Ranma: It's not my fault Akane! Whoa! [Ducks an ornamental statue of
some kind. The guy in blue's eyes get big and he jumps aside. Akane is
standing in the gateway, glowing blue and carring a large metal mallet.]
Akane: RANMA!!!! [Ranma just keeps running] Get back here you pervert!
[Akane takes off after Ranma. Neither of them notice the guy standing
there, and they both run off down the road. The guy in blue blinks twice
and looks after the way they ran off to. Then he just shrugs, straightens
his pack, and walks through the gateway. We pan back again, and in the
background of the Tendo Dojo shot, we see a small figure in a red shirt
pounded by an equally small figure wearing a blue and gold dress.]
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART ONE: A MAN IN
BLUE laid over the Tendo Dojo shot, which slowly fades into a picture of a
beautiful black rose glistening on a white background. As we watch, the
title fades away, and the rose slowly changes into a rich blue.]
...
[Next Scene: We see Ranma, looking quite well pounded, leaning on a handy
staff. He is staggering towards the Tendo Dojo.]
Ranma: Sheesh. She didn't have to hit me that hard. It's not like I
asked Shampoo to send me those photos. I guess that's what I get for
having such a violent tomboy fiancee.
[Ranma stops suddenly and looks around. It seems he is in luck; Akane
wasn't around to repound him for saying 'tomboy', and Nabiki wasn't there
to charge him for not telling Akane. He perks up slightly and smiles. ]
Ranma: Hey! I guess my luck is changin-
[A sudden crash of thunder cuts Ranma off. With seconds a heavy, driving
rain is cascading from the heavens. Ranma-chan's smile falls away, and she
looks resigned. Without saying another word, she sighs and slowly walks
herself inside with the help of her staff.]
[Next Scene: Ranma is toweling himself off in the bathroom.]
Ranma: At least there was enough hot water to take a bath with. I hate
this curse.
[The door opens slightly to let in P-chan. He takes one look at Ranma and
scurries for the tub. Splash! Instant Ryouga.]
Ryouga: How dare you! I saw those pictures you got from Shampoo! You
fiend!
Ranma: Hey! It wasn't my idea for Shampoo to send me pictures of her
modeling her new swimsuit.
Ryouga: Don't tell me Ranma! It's Akane that you have betrayed.
[They both just sit there for a moment, then Ranma looks at Ryouga more
closely.]
Ranma: You're looking a little pale there, P-chan. Are you feeling okay.
Ryouga: Don't call me P-chan.
Ranma: Okay, Charlotte. What's with the bedsheet impression, man.
[Ryouga blushes and color begins to return to his face.]
Ryouga: Don't call me that either. I just had a bit of a nosebleed
earlier...when I saw the pictures.
Ranma: Nosebleed??
Kasumi's Voice: Akane, can you please get me the mop. P-chan bled all
over the kitchen floor.
[We fade into the next scene to the sound of Ranma laughing. The next
scene is of the entire Tendo/Saotome clan eating dinner, with Ryouga
sitting at one side of Akane, staring into her face, and Ranma glaring at
Ryouga from the other side of Akane. Everyone else is concentrating on
their excellent food. Then Kasumi looks at her father suddenly.]
Kasumi: Oh my, father, I nearly forgot to tell you. A gaijin boy stopped
by today to see you while you were out getting cigarettes.
Soun: A gaijin boy? Maybe it was potential student. [He frowns at Genma,
who is busy inhaling everything in reach.] I could certainly use the money
with that bottomless pit around. Where did he go?
Kasumi: He said he would be back later on tonight. [In the background we
hear the door open.]
Voice from door: Is anyone home?
[Soun jumps up] Soun: Be right there!
[Soun runs to the door, and everyone else just continues to eat. The
camera switches to Soun reaching the front door. The guy at the door is
the fellow wearing blue we saw at the beginning. Now that he is inside, we
can see that he is as tall as Soun.]
Soun: Welcome to my humble home! Come inside out of the rain.
Voice: Thank you sir. It is rather wet out here.
Soun: Are you here to be one of my students?
Voice: I don't know; are you Mr. Tendo?
Soun: Yes I am. Have you heard of me? I never been to America...
Voice: I am Christopher Tazuki. I was sent here by my Uncle Tazuki to
finish my training.
Soun: Uncle Taz...You don't mean Tatsumaki Tazuki do you? How can a
Japanese man be your uncle?
Chris: I'm half Japanese. [Shrugs.] It doesn't really show I guess.
Soun: I would be happy to help you finish your training. I owe your Uncle
Tazuki a great debt, and of course, this is traditional. How old are you
son?
Chris: I'm 17 years old, sir.
Soun: Hmm. Well come on to the front room. We're having dinner right
now. Have you eaten yet?
Chris: Actually I ate some okonomiyaki at some place call Ucchan's a
little earlier. I'm completely stuffed.
Soun: Well come with me anyway. You should be here about a year, and you
might as well get to know everyone here. [A quick look at his broom] You
can leave that here.
[Chris and Soun walk to the front room, where even Ranma and Ryouga have
settled down to some serious eating. Soun clears his throat to get their
attention.]
Soun: This is Christopher Tazuki. He will be staying here for the next
year or so to finish his training with us.
Everyone: Grglemrph??!!!
Soun: Come now, Saotome. Surely you remember Tatsumaki Tazuki! He is
this boy's uncle.
[Genma swallows a huge amount of food and stands up] Genma: Of course!
He's the one who gave us the idea for sealing our master up in that cave.
So you're his nephew, huh. You know, your uncle was quite the martial
artist.
Chris: Thank you sir. You must be Genma Saotome.
[Ranma swallows his gigantic mouthful and jumps up.] Ranma: So, you're a
martial artist too. What school do you study?
Chris: Anything Goes School of Janijutsu.
Ranma: What!?!? Everyone else but Genma and Soun: Mrphleck!?!?
[Soun and Genma nod knowingly] Chris: The ancient art of martial arts
cleaning techniques.
Ranma: I thought no one studied Anything Goes martial arts but the Tendo's
and Saotome's.
Genma: We don't usually count them, because their style is so different.
Chris: If it helps, we can just call it Janijutsu. It is really
different. I'm just here to brush up on my unarmed and aerial combat
skills. [Looking at Ranma.] I hear that they are Saotome specialities.
[Ranma smiles and nods.] Ranma: Yep. And I am the best.
Akane: Please Ranma. If your head was any bigger we...
Ryouga: Ranma, how dare you claim to be a better martial artist than I am!
[Ryouga lunges at Ranma over the table. Ranma jumps over him and Ryouga
goes flying into the wall. Growling, Ryouga turns around and prepares
himself to leap at Ranma again. Ranma just smiles and goes into a
defensive stance, when suddenly someone steps between them.]
Chris: Please, stop fighting. Listen, pride is never a good reason to
fight. [Turning to Ranma] Any man can make a claim with his mouth. [Looks
at Ryouga] If you are a better martial artist, be secure in that
knowledge. The words of another should never entice you to fight.
[Chris suddenly stops and looks at Ranma.] Chris: Are you the fellow I
saw running out of here earlier today. [Ranma looks confused.] You
certainly looked like you were in quite a hurry. I can't say I blame you,
however. That woman chasing you looked quite formidable.
Ranma: That wasn't a woman, it was my tomboy fiancee. Erk! [Looks over
at Akane, who simply grabs him by one hand and throws him into the pond.
She then continues to eat.]
[Chris smiles at Akane, but then opens his eyes wide as he sees Ranma-chan
step out of the fish pond.]
Chris: W-w-w-w [Points at Ranma-chan.] What's going on!! ...
[Scene Change: Ranma is sitting down at the table, and an empty teapot is
on the ground next to him. The table is clean of dinner, Genma and Saotome
are playing Go, Kasumi is carrying dishes back to the kitchen, and Nabiki
is explaining Ranma's situation to Chris.]
Nabiki: ...and after that Ranma and Mr. Saotome have been living here ever
since.
Chris: Man. Now I'm glad I talked my Uncle out of taking me to train at
Jusenkyo. I could have ended up turning into a pig or something every time
it rained.
Ranma and Ryouga: Errp! [Both fall over.]
Chris: Did I say something wrong?
[Ryouga gets up suddenly.] Ryouga: Heh, heh. I need to go the bathroom.
I'll be right back.
[Ranma gets up and rubs the back of his head, sheepishly] Ranma: Sorry
about that, just lost my balance there for a second.
Akane: Idiot.
Ranma: [Turns to Akane coolly] Tomboy.
Akane: [Jumping up and staring at Ranma.] YOU PERVERT!
Ranma: [Standing to stare back at Akane] YOU ARE SO UNCUTE!
[Ranma and Akane run around the house, Ranma dodging the occasional bit of
furniture, and both shouting insults at each other at the top of their
lungs. Everyone but Chris seems to take this in stride.]
Chris: I can see I have my work cut out for me. [Shakes his head.]
Nabiki: Why should you care? Any sensible person would just stay out of
the way.
Chris: Well, this one-year training exchange program between my school and
your father's has been going on for a real long time. I'm supposed to hone
certain combat skills under their their tutelage, and in exchange, I teach
the students my age how to think before you act.
[Nabiki looks over at Akane and Ranma. Ranma is currently dodging the
family magazine collection.]
Nabiki: So that's why you gave that little speech earlier. You do have
your work cut out for you, you know. I think Ranma suffers from some sort
of "foot in mouth disease," and Akane has quite a temper.
Chris: You should hear some of the stories about Mr. Saotome I've heard
from my uncle. From what I hear, he really has calmed down.
Genma: [Looking up from his game--while he is turned away Soun tosses
several pieces into the fish pond] That's right. I owe my wonderfully
responsible nature to Tatsumaki Tazuki.
Nabiki: That wonderfully responsible nature that got you turning into a
panda whenever you get watered down.
Genma: ...
Soun: [Realizing something, and jumping at Chris. In the meantime, Genma
turns around the Go board.] You can solve all of Ranma's problems, can't
you? Then he can marry Akane without any more trouble.
[Tears start running down Soun's face. Chris looks over at Akane and
Ranma. Ranma sticks out his tongue and pulls down his right eye. Akane
responds by slamming him with the table.]
Chris: Well, I can try.
Soun: Thank you, oh thank you. Now, as you are probably very tired from
your journey, let me show you to your room. You will be sharing a room
with Ranma and his father...
[The screen fades out and a day passes. We see a beautiful sunrise, and
see everything around the Tendo house washed clean with the sun. Panning
through the rooms of the house, we end up in the Tendo family dojo. Ranma
is practicing by himself, striking the air around him with a variety of
kicks and punches. He stops and looks toward to door as Akane's voice
comes from outside.]
Akane: So, do you train every morning like Ranma and his father?
Chris: [Standing next to Akane.] Not really. I usually train a little
later in the day. [Laughs a little.] I'm not exactly what you'd call a
morning person.
[They enter the dojo, and Ranma looks over a Chris curiously. Chris is
dressed in a janitor's work coverall, and carring his push broom. Akane
comes in with him wearing her gi.]
Chris: Oh, Ranma. I hope I'm not interrupting anything.
Ranma: Uhh, no. Actually, since Pop went off with Mr. Tendo I could use
someone to spar with...[Scowls at Akane]...who isn't a stupid girl.
Akane: Don't do me any favors Ranma. I'll just break a few bricks in the
corner while you two MEN spar. [Chris and Ranma both shiver at the cold in
her voice.]
Chris: Ranma, after this you and I need to have a talk.
Ranma: Well, okay, whatever. Are you ready? [Chris nods.] Well, let's
go!
[Ranma starts with a simple punch which Chris hurriedly blocks it with his
broom. The same sequence follows for the next few attacks, leaving Chris
sweating and out of breath. Ranma smiles at Chris's obvious distress.]
Ranma: [Running at Chris.] Try to block this one!
[Ranma's fist starts to come forward, but Chris suddenly darts to the side
and trips Ranma up by one foot and pops him in the back with his broom.]
Ranma: Ooff!!
[Ranma runs foreward uncontrollably, propelled by the end of Chris's broom.
After a few feet, he lands on his face and slides out of the dojo's front
door. Akane runs out after Ranma, and Chris follows after a few moments of
catching his breath. They get out to see Ranma-chan sitting in the family
pond.]
Akane: Ranma!
Chris: [Still breathing hard.] Ahh, err. Oops. Sorry about that Ranma.
Ranma-chan: Unngh. [Shakes her head.] I'm okay. What happened?
Akane: You fell in the pond, idiot.
Ranma-chan: Grrr. That's not what I meant. How did you [points at Chris]
get me in the first place? I had you.
Chris: Well, I'm not always that slow, but I can't move that fast for very
long. [Looks a little sheepish.] I'm sorry about knocking you in the pond
though. I guess I got carried away. Are you okay?
Ranma-chan: Yeah, I guess I am. I'll be right back to continue our match.
I just need some hot water.
Chris: Oh, that's okay. A wise man knows when he's beat. I may have
tossed you, but you're far, far better than I am. I'll just learn some of
your daily exercises from Akane...[Looks over at Akane.]...if that's all
right with you.
Akane: Uh, sure. Why not.
[Chris helps Ranma-chan from the water and then turns toward the dojo when
Kasumi pokes her head out of the front room.]
Kasumi: Oh Akane, you have a guest.
Akane: Who is it Kasumi?
Familiar Voice: It is I my darling Akane! Your truest love!
[Akane and Ranma-chan both get disgusted looks on their faces. Chris
notices and looks confused.]
Chris: Who is it?
Akane and Ranma-chan: Kuno.
Kuno: [Leaping from the house and taking a dramatic pose, his bokken
raised high.] Yes! It is I, the great and noble Tatewaki Kuno, the Blue
Thunder of Furinken High, Age 17.
[Lightning crackles in the background. Kuno then looks down and notices
Chris standing there looking amused. Something unusual: Kuno has a red
band on his arm.]
Chris: Hi. I am the polite and humble Christopher Tazuki, age 17.
Kuno: Ah, a gaijin soul which knows it's place, a rare internal
combination. I find that I like you humble fellow. How unlike that vile
cad Ranma Sao-ERP! [Ranma-chan kicks Kuno hard in the face.]
Chris: Yowch! What was that for?
Ranma-chan: Well, you see...
Kuno: [Recovered from the kick.] PIG TAILED GIRL!! [Grabs Ranma-chan.]
How I have longed for your presence. Permit me-AAAAHHHHH!!! [Ranma-chan
sends Kuno into low earth orbit.]
Chris: [Looking a little stunned.] Y-you mean he doesn't know?
Akane and Ranma-chan: Nope.
Chris: [Now looking a little ill.] Why don't you tell him?
Akane: Well, here's the story...
[Scene Change: Akane's bedroom. Akane is seated on her bed, Ranma and
Chris on the floor. Akane and Chris have changed back into their normal
clothes. Ranma and Akane are obviously telling Chris some stories.]
Ranma: ...and then we saw Ukyou and Ryouga come over the rise. You know
Akane, I don't think they have been on a date since.
Akane: Well, I guess you can't blame them, if they went through the same
thing with the ghosts we did.
Chris: Has anyone seen Ryouga since last night? I think he said he was
going to the bathroom, but he never came back.
Ranma: Ryouga has the world's worst sense of direction...
[Scene Change: Ryouga is walking down a suburb street. A street sign on
the corner says Mills Park Drive, in English.]
Ryouga: Oh no, where am I now?
[A man in one house looks out the window, sees Ryouga, and stares mutely at
him until he walks out of sight. Then he runs back to a shelf and starts
throwing the Anime tapes on it into the trash.]
Someone: I have watched these tapes WAY to often...
[Back to Akane's room.]
Ranma:...I wouldn't worry. He'll show up in a day or two. Or five.
Chris: No one can get that lost.
[Ranma and Akane look at each other, and then back at Chris. They both nod
at him.]
Chris: Oh wow.
[Scene Change: Chris is watching the stars on top the Tendo roof. He is
sitting with his arms clasped around his knees. He looks a little sad.]
Chris thought: For all their fighting, I pretty sure that Ranma and Akane
will make an excellent couple. [Sighs forlornly.] I hope I can find that
special someone I've been looking for. I just feel so alone.
[While Chris is sitting up there, Ranma leaps up onto the roof. He looks
back nervously.]
Ranma: I hope Akane doesn't find me up here. Last I saw her she was
heading for the kitchen with a new recipe. [Notices Chris.] Yo. What's
going on?
Chris: Oh, hi Ranma. I was just thinking.
Ranma: Hmm. [Both of them wait in silence for a moment.] Well, um, are
you going to school with us tomorrow?
Chris: That sounds good. I've got to get that over with at some point.
Ranma: Oh, and there is something else you should know. Mr. Tendo wants
you to start practicing with me and Dad in the morning.
Chris: [Looks a little worried.] If he really wants me to...
[End Episode 1]
[Episode 2-Wake Up! Wake Up!]
[Scene: Chris is watching the stars on top the Tendo roof. He is sitting
with his arms clasped around his knees. He looks a little sad. While
Chris is sitting up there, Ranma leaps up onto the roof.]
Ranma: Yo. What's going on?
Chris: Oh, hi Ranma. I was just thinking.
Ranma: Hmm. Well, I just came up here to ask if you were going to school
with us tomorrow.
Chris: That sounds good.
Ranma: Oh, and there is something else you should know. Mr. Tendo wants
you to start practicing with me and Dad in the morning.
Chris: [Looks a little worried.] If he really wants me to...
Ranma: What's the problem?
Chris: [Look directly at Ranma. We see a gleam in one eye] Ranma, I have
to ask you a favor. I have some trouble getting and staying awake in the
mornings. I need you to wake me up and make sure I stay that way.
Ranma: Uh, sure. No problem.
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART TWO: WAKE
UP! WAKE UP! over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we watch, it the
title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade to black.]
[We see a shining sun over the Tendo Dojo. As we slide past the front
room, we fade into Ranma's, Genma's, and now Chris's room. Genma is
standing over Ranma, with his arms folded.]
Genma: Get up, boy. [Reaches down for Ranma. Suddenly Ranma opens his
eyes and grabs Genma. Genma is summarily flipped out of the door of the
room.]
Ranma: I'll be out as soon as I wake up Chris, Pop.
[Ranma pulls himself up and looks over at Chris, who is snoring
contentedly. We can see a slight thread of drool descending from his
mouth.]
Ranma: Not your most beautiful sight first thing in the morning. Alright,
time you woke up, buddy.
Ranma: [Reaches over and shakes Chris gently. Chris does nothing but
sleep.] Hmm.
[Ranma taps Chris on the head lightly. Chris continues to snore. Ranma
then slaps Chris twice on the face for no response. Confused, Ranma pulls
up both eyelids briefly and sits down next to Chris.]
Ranma: What's going on here? [Ranma grabs Chris by his shirt and shakes
him back and forth.] Wake up! Wake up!
Genma: [Genma walks back into the room. Chris still hasn't moved on his
own.] Why haven't you woken him up yet, son?
Ranma: He won't wake up, see? [Jumps up while still grabbing Chris, then
lets go. Genma and Ranma watch Chris slam into the floor and continue to
sleep.]
Genma: Hmm. It seems stronger methods are called for.
[We see Genma grabbing a bucket from outside, and running to the kitchen.
He waves a hello to Kasumi, who is cooking breakfast, and fills his bucket.
Then we see him standing over Chris.]
Genma: An unpleasant way to wake up, but it must be done. [Dumps water
all over Chris. Nothing changes.] Hmm. It seems it is time for it. [We
see "action streaks" all around Genma while he says:] THE SAOTOME SCHOOL
SECRET TECHNIQUE OF WAKING PEOPLE UP!!!
[Next we see Ranma and Genma running out of their room with Chris above
their heads. They run out of the front room, and over to the fish pond.
They heave Chris in with a neat splash.]
Nabiki: [Sitting at the table, eating some breakfast.] That's the Saotome
School Secret Technique of Waking People up.
Genma: Hey! It's never failed before!
Nabiki: [Points at the water.] There's a first time for everything, I
suppose.
Genma: Huh? [Looks back at the pond, but we only see bubbles rising from
it.]
Ranma: Oh no!
[Both Genma and Ranma jump into the pool. Scene Change: We are back in
the front room, with Chris snoring with his head on the table, and
Genma-panda and Soun are examining him. Nabiki comes down the stairs
dressed for school.]
Nabiki: What's with your new student daddy? Shouldn't he have been up by
now? It's only a half hour before school starts.
Soun: I don't know, Nabiki. Saotome and his son here tried everything to
wake him up. Yet here he sleeps.
Nabiki: Well, you better get him ready for school if you want us to drag
him there. And unless you have 5000 yen you can spare, I won't be carrying
him.
Soun: [Pulls head back, and yells at the stairway.] Ranma!! You'll have
to carry him to school!
[We hear someone running upstairs. Then we see Ranma slide down them. He
stops and turns to look at Soun.]
Ranma: I have to carry him? He's not even awake yet!
Soun: I know son, but he can't be late to school on his first day. Will
any luck, he will wake up on the way.
Nabiki: [Looks over at Chris, who shifts slighty, and continues to snore.]
Not just any luck, daddy. Lots and lots of good luck.
[We see everyone come down ready for school. Everything is shown very
quickly, and with no sound. After a bit of silent argueing, Ranma and
Akane run off to school, with Ranma carrying Chris on his back. It is an
interesting sight, as Chris is much larger than Ranma. Finally they make
it to the school. Chris stirs slightly, but does not wake up. They are
met at the school gate by Ukyou.]
Ukyou: Ranma! [Looking at Chris.] Who's that?
Ranma: He's Mr. Tendo's new student, Chris. [Drops Chris like a sack of
potatoes.] AND HE'S REALLY HEAVY!
Ukyou: What's that on his collar?
Ranma and Akane: Huh? [Everyone turns and looks. Tucked in Chris's shirt
collar is a small black rose. Ukyou reaches out and takes it, then throws
it over her shoulder. A random student catches it in his shirt pocket and
immediatly falls asleep.]
Ranma: A black rose?
Akane: A drugged black rose.
Ranma, Akane, and Ukyou: Kodachi?
Familair voice from behind: Did someone mention my unfortunately insane
sister?
[Everyone whips around, except Chris, who is only starting to come around.
The person behind them, is of course, Kuno. He is still wearing that
strange red arm band. Sasuke is standing attentivly beside him,with a
first aid kit at the ready.]
Kuno: Ah, my darling Akane. Today is the day when I free you from the
evil clutches of that vile sorcerer, Ranma Saotome.
Ranma: Hey, I keep telling you, I'm no sorcerer.
Kuno: Hah! You are a cowardly liar as well as a pratictioner of the black
arts. Behold! [Points to his arm band with his bokken.] I have recently
purchased this, a powerful magic article from a magician of some power who
owns a small booth in the marketplace. [Points bokken at Ranma, who looks
rather digusted.] It shall nullify whatever spell that you have used to
defeat me in the past. Prepare to die, Ranma Saotome!
[Right now, Chris attempts to stand up, but falls again without even
opening his eyes. Ranma looks back just in time to see Chris land hard
with his elbow on one of the school's lawn sprinklers. A jet of water
spurts out so fast that only Ranma notices it. Of course, this is because
it hits him directly.]
Ranma-chan: AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!
Kuno: [Smiling like a fiend.] It seems that the cretin has shown his true
colors. In an act of unparrelled cowardice, he has left me his captive,
the pig-tailed girl. In truth, I had not expected such a complete
succ...WHERE ARE YOU GOING? [Akane and Ranma-chan are holding up a very
disoriented Chris. They are headed for class. Incidentally, Nabiki is
standing nearby with her cohorts. As Ranma-chan passes by, she gives
Nabiki some cash, and Nabiki hands her a thermos.]
Nabiki: What does it look like, Kuno baby? They're going to class.
[Points at clock.] It's nearly time to start. [With that she starts
walking inside herself.]
Kuno: NO!! I shall not be denied my true reward for cowing Saotome. I
shall...What is it Sasuke? [We see Sasuke tugging on Kuno's sleeve.]
Sasuke: But Master Kuno, if your father finds out that you are
late...[Whispers in Kuno's ear. Kuno stands up straight and runs his hand
through his hair.]
Kuno: You are correct my good Sasuke. In my pursuit of my loves, I had
not considered that aspect of my existance. I shall use my iron will to
control my desires, and forgo my reward until after school. Truly, I am a
man among men. AH-HA HA HA HA!
Sasuke: Of course, Master Kuno! [To himself.] And with me around, he can
keep his hair.
Kuno: [Walking inside, he stops and looks back a Sasuke.] What was that
Sasuke?
Sasuke: [Jumps back with his hands in front of his face] Oh nothing
Master Kuno! Just saying that the world is unfair!
Kuno: Very well...
[We see them at a normal day at school. Chris is in class with Nabiki and
Kuno, seated on the opposite side of Nabiki. He watches with some
amusement as Nabiki sells photos to Kuno. We also see Ranma and Akane's
class, with an attentive Akane and a very bored Ranma. Then, when it looks
like Ranma is about to fall asleep...]
Bell: BRRINNNGG!!
Ranma: Yes! Lunchtime!
[Scene Change: We are underneath a tree in the schoolyard, one well suited
for hiding from Kuno. Ranma, Akane, Ukyou, and Chris are all sitting under
the leaves and enjoying lunch.]
Ranma: Hey! Where's my lunch?
Akane: [Smiling] Right here, Ranma! I made it myself!
Ranma: Uh, er. Maybe I'm not so hungry after all.
Akane: You're going to eat it if I have to stuff it down your throat.
Chris: Oh just eat it. After all, she went to all the trouble of making
it. It's not like it's going to bite.
Ranma: [Looks at food.] I wouldn't be sure of that until I got the
opinion of a qualified chemist. [Looks back at Akane, who is starting to
growl. Looks over at Chris and sees no help there. Finally, he decides
that making Akane angrier would be more damaging, and tries a bite.]
Ranma: AAAAHHHH!!!!
Chris: [Watches Ranma leap into the tree above him, screaming.] It can't
be that bad. Do you mind if I try it?
Akane: Help yourself!
[Chris tries a bite and immediatly spits in across the schoolyard. He
looks over at Akane with tears running down his face.]
Chris: Sorry about that. It was a little spicy.
Akane: Really. I only ground 5 jalapeno peppers into it, and I didn't
think you'd be able to taste the chili powder at first, so I added an extra
bottle.
Chris, gagging: Perhaps next time you should stick to the recipe.
Ukyou: [Has been staring at Chris all this time, like she had something to
ask.] Why did you have a black rose from Kodachi?
Chris: Oh, yeah. I nearly forgot. Thanks for the help this morning,
everybody.
Ranma: [Coming down from the tree.] Did she try to attack in the middle
of the night or something?
Chris: More or less. There I was, finishing my evening reading, when
suddenly...
[Flashback Fade: We see Chris sitting down next to a snoring Ranma and
Genma. He closes the novel he has in his hands and turns off his reading
light. Looking up, he suddenly notices Kodachi on the ceiling.]
Chris: Umm...Hello. Who are you?
Kodachi: I am called the Black Rose. [She drops from the ceiling
lightly.] I am here to claim my Ranma darling from the vile clutches of
the Tendo family and take him home to marry me.
Chris: [Blink, Blink.] Oh.
Kodachi: Who are you? I thought I knew everyone who lived here.
Chris: I just moved in. I'm a student of Mr. Tendo's. Would you like to
talk about this marriage bit...[Head droops as Kodachi tucks a small black
rose in his collar.]
Kodachi: I can't have you alerting the rest of the family...
[Flashback Return: Chris is telling his story to Ukyou and Ranma. Akane
is coughing violently, apparently after having tried her own cooking.]
Chris: The last thing I remember is hitting the floor, until I woke up
this morning.
Ranma: Why didn't she try to get me? I think I would have remembered
that.
Chris: I don't know. I did hit that floor pretty hard. Maybe she thought
the sound might wake you up.
Ukyou: You better be careful, Ranma honey. Kodachi is completely obsessed
with you, and if she going to try and steal you, you might wake up one
morning to your wedding at the Kuno manison.
Ranma: Oh, don't worry. That'll never happen. I'm much to aware to
ever...[SMACK!]
Akane: [Pulls her fist from Ranma's face.] What was that, you moron?
Chris: [Wincing.] I don't know Ranma. Anyone ruthless enough to try to
kidnap you is more that a little dangerous. Even if she is beautiful.
Ranma, Akane, and Ukyou: WHAT??!!
Chris: What, what! You mean you've never noticed she's good-looking
before.
Ranma: Uh....no, not really. I never got past that insane gaze of hers.
Akane: Not to mention that laugh.
Chris: I'm not saying I'm going to walk up to the Kuno mansion and ask for
her hand in marriage. All I said was that she was beautiful. [Smiles.]
Not that I haven't seen an incredible number of beautiful women since I
arrived. I mean, Kasumi, Nabiki, Akane, and Ukyou are all absolutely
stunning.
Akane: [Blushes slightly.] Uh, thanks.
Ukyou: [Smiles.] You will do fine. Just keep saying things like that,
sugar.
Ranma: Thats something I'd never thought I would see. Someone not
clinically insane saying Akane is beautiful...[SMACK!!, and Ranma takes a
yet another ride on AngryAkane Airlines.]
Akane: [As the scene fades away] What'd you do that for?!
[Scene Change: We see the gang finish school, watching Akane and Ranma
scorch a table in science, and Chris noticing Kuno giving him the evil eye
in history. We finally see them walking out of the school, Ukyou walking
close to Ranma, Akane staring a hole in the side of Ranma's head, and Chris
shaking his head at the whole situation. Then suddenly, the crowd of
departing students parts like the Red Sea. Kuno is standing at the gate,
bokken at the ready.]
Ranma: What do you want now, Kuno?
Kuno: I have not come to chasten you again, sorcerer Saotome. I would
have dialog with the cowardly gaijin who left with my loves this morning.
Prepare to die, foolish gaijin!
Chris: Not to be rude, but as I didn't take your 'loves.' As I remember
it, I was carried away by them. I wasn't even fully conscious at the time.
Kuno: The fool does not deny it! Have at you. [Kuno charges Chris,
bokken raised high.] YYYAAAHHH!!!
Chris: Uh oh. [Reaches for his broom. It's not there. A quick shot of
it at home, in his room.] Oh boy.
Akane: Shouldn't you help him, Ranma. He doesn't have his broom.
Ranma: Na. You don't butt in on a man to man fight. Besides, I want to
see how he does in an unarmed fight.
Chris: [Looks worried.] I hope this works. [Pulls right fist back, and
readies himself.] HOKORI-KEN!!!
[Chris throws a punch in the air. We see the wind from it fly into Kuno's
bokken, shattering it. Kuno stops.]
Kuno: What have you done?! [Turns to Sasuke.] Sasuke! Where is my spare
bokken?
Sasuke: I left it at home, Master Kuno. You said that you wouldn't need
against the likes of Saotome, because of your new arm band.
Kuno: Alas. Without my weapon, I cannot fight properly. [Turns to
Chris.] You may have won the day, but make peace with your family this
night. Tomorrow you shall die, foul gaijin.
Chris: Oh come on. I didn't do anything.
[Kuno walks away. Chris looks back helplessly at Ranma. Ranma shrugs.]
Chris: What did I do?
[Ranma shrugs again. Ranma and Akane join Chris, and they begin to walk
home. ]
Akane: Oh, Chris. I think you should stop by Dr. Tofu's today. After
all, "the path of a true martial artist is fraught with perils." You
should know your doctor.
Chris: You have a point. Which way do I go? [Akane points down a
street.]
Akane: Just go that way two blocks. He has a sign out front, and he's on
the right side.
Chris: Thanks for all the help, guys. I'll see you later. [Walks down
the street.]
Ranma: He's a strange guy. [Shakes his head.] I can't believe he thinks
the psycho gymnast is cute.
Akane: He'll be alright.
[Scene Change: Chris is walking into Dr. Tofu's office. There are several
old people sitting here, waiting for their appoinments. Chris looks around
and walks in back. There Dr. Tofu is working on the back of a middle-aged
man. He looks up at Chris as he enters.]
Tofu: Can I help you?
Chris: Oh, I'm okay. I just stopped by to meet you. I'm Chris Tazuki, a
new student of Soun Tendo's.
Tofu: Student of Mr. Tendo's, huh. [Smiles.] I get a good deal of
business from that house. It's good to meet you. I'm Dr. Tofu Ono.
[Shakes Chris's hand.]
[In the background we begin to hear some commotion.]
Voice: Oh no! Not her.
Voice2: I can't believe it. I waited two weeks for this appointment.
Voice3: It's not worth your life. Run for the hills!!
[We see Kasumi walking up to the office, book in hand. She notices
everyone leaving, and looks slightly confused.]
Kasumi thought: I wonder if anything is wrong.
[Kasumi makes her way into the office, and passes through the waiting area.
Chairs and tables are overturned, as if a cyclone went through. Finally,
we see her make her way into the back. Dr. Tofu and Chris are talking over
the middle aged man.]
Chris: ...and so, because of a misunderstanding of some kind, I might be
needing your services tomorrow.
Dr. Tofu: I see. Well I'll be happy to...Kasumi!! [Glasses fog.]
W-w-what are you doing here?
Kasumi: I came to return another book, Dr. Tofu. Here you are. [Hands
book to Tofu, who promptly presses it, sideways, into his patient's back.
Chris looks confused.]
Dr. Tofu: T-thank you K-kasumi. I hope you enjoyed it.
Kasumi: Thank you for the use of the book. It was very informative.
[Smiles as Dr. Tofu makes a pretzel out of his patient's back.] You're so
funny, Dr. Tofu.
Chris: Uh...Dr. Tofu, you might want to let him breathe.
Tofu: Ranma! Did Akane hit you again? You really should learn to keep
your mouth shut. [Reaches for Chris, who, being no fool, promptly hands
him Betty-chan.] You're as thin as a stick.
Chris: [Looks over at Kasumi.] I think I understand. Come on, Kasumi. I
think we have wasted enough of the good doctor's time.
Kasumi: Oh my! Goodbye Dr. Tofu. [Chris grabs an arm and runs out.]
Tofu: Goodbye Kasumi. [To Betty-chan.] You really need to gain weight,
Ranma. Why, you're as light as Betty-chan.
Patient: Help! Help! Somebody please, help me!
[Scene Change: We see Chris walking Kasumi home.]
Chris: Sorry about dragging you out of there, but I think I need to talk
to you.
Kasumi: About what Chris?
Chris: I want to help you out around the house. You know, with the
cleaning. [Shrugs.] After all its not like I can pay rent or anything.
Kasumi: Of course you can help, Chris. In fact, with you helping out
around the house, I should have enough time to give Akane cooking lessons.
[Frowns slightly.] She really needs some more practice.
Chris: That is the gospel truth. I think her main problem is...[Ryouga
suddenly charges around the corner.]
Ryouga: Kasumi?! [Stops in front of her.] Can you help me get to the
dojo?
Kasumi: Of course, Ryouga. It's right over there. [Points two houses
down.]
Ryouga: Oh. Thanks. [Ryouga charges off, eyes fixed on his destination.]
Chris: He's an interesting fellow. I didn't think it was possible to get
that lost.
Kasumi: He always seems to show up when he is needed. [We see Ryouga plow
right over a mailman in his straight-line dash.]
Chris: Why is he here, anyway?
Kasumi: I think Ranma invited him to come over. Those two are such good
friends.
Ryouga's Voice: RRAANNMMAA, PREPARE TO DIE!!!
Chris: If you say so...
[We see Chris and Kasumi come around to the gate. Inside we see Ranma
looking at a puddle, and P-chan shaking with rage inside it, looking as
angry as pork gets.]
Ranma: Next time you try that, I'll give you to Shampoo. Then I can get
some good sweet and sour pork!
P-chan: BWEEE!!
Kasumi: I don't think Akane would be happy if you did that to her pet pig,
Ranma.
Ranma: Kasumi?! I didn't see you come in!
Chris: [Walks over to Ranma and puts a hand on his shoulder.] Ranma, when
a man has to threaten a pig, he really needs help. We really need to have
a talk.
Ranma: It's not like that...[Sees Kasumi and Chris shake their heads at
him.] Oh forget it. [Runs off inside the house.]
Chris: [Looking around.] Where did Ryouga go?
Kasumi: He's probably inside somewhere. I'll tell him you're looking for
him. [Goes inside.]
Chris: [Barely notices. He is staring at P-chan, and at Ryouga's
abandoned clothes.] Jhusenkyo?
P-chan: Bwee?
[We see Chris grab P-chan and Ryouga's clothes and run inside. Scene
Change: We are in the bathroom now. Chris runs in with P-chan, and shuts
the door. He turns hot water on, and waits for the bath to fill up.]
Chris: I must be crazy. Oh, well. If it turns out I'm wrong, the only
one who'll know is you, little pig.
[The bath is filled. Chris drops a squirming, bweeing pig into the water.
Splash! Instant Ryouga.]
Ryouga: I can explain.
Chris: Wow. I was right.
Ryouga: You can't tell anyone, please. [Grabs Chris by the shirt.] Akane
would kill me.
Chris: [Pulls himself free.] Why would she kill you?
Ryouga: Uhh...[Blushes.] She just thinks I'm her pet, and well...
Chris: Don't tell me. You've seen some things that you shouldn't.
Ryouga: Well, she also likes to sleep with her little P-chan.
Chris: [Looks sidways at Ryouga.] Are you really that desperate? I mean,
why didn't you tell her?
Ryouga: It all happened so fast. One minute I was trying to kill Ranma,
and the next I was Akane's P-chan.
Chris: Oh. [Pause] Hey. Why do you want to kill Ranma, anyway?
Ryouga: It is he who is responsible for all this. [Points to himself.]
It was he who pushed me to my curse at Jhusenkyo.
Chris: Oh. [Quiet for a moment.] I guess that's why he hasn't told Akane.
Okay, I'll keep your secret, on two conditions.
Ryouga: What conditions?
Chris: First, one day you have to tell Akane about P-chan...
Ryouga: I already planned to do that, someday.
Chris: ...and you call off your blood-feud with Ranma.
Ryouga: WHAT?!
Chris: [Shrugs.] Those are my terms. Either you give up the Ranma hunt,
or Akane starts hunting you.
Ryouga: I-I...[Slumps.] All right. I agree. [Looks into Chris's eyes.]
I won't just let him walk all over me though.
Chris: I wouldn't dream of it. Just watch yourself, and if you see me
looking at you, you should probably cool it off...
[End Episode 2]
[Episode 3-The Ring of a Sorcerer.]
[We are in the schoolyard of Furinken High. All of the students are
gathered in a circle centered on the front gate. Kuno is standing between
the gate and the school building, and Chris is standing beside Akane and
Ranma, at the gate. Kuno stands ready, with a bokken in his hands, two
more strapped to his back, and Sasuke standing by with a roll of spare
bokkens. Chris is has also apparently brought his broom to school, and has
it in a defensive position.]
Kuno: So, despite the fear you must have felt at the thought of facing my
magnificence again, you have still arrived for the daily lessons. I salute
your bravery, but I must still vanquish you. Prepare yourself!!
Chris: Not to be rude, but, THIS IS EXTREMELY STUPID!! Why do you want to
fight me? I didn't do anything.
Kuno: I salute you, and yet the lies cease not. What foul creature be
thee? You deprived me of my reward for defeated the cretinous Saotome!!
Do not deny it again.
Ranma: Hey, I didn't even fight you yesterday.
Kuno: I defeated you by my mere presence, foolish Saotome. Now be quiet,
and let your betters deal with their business, coward.
Ranma: Hey, you take that back!! Huh? [Akane pulls Ranma back by the
braid.]
Akane: Don't interfere.
Ranma: What? I can't let that go by. He's got it all wrong.
Akane: I know, but it was you who said one doesn't butt in on a man to man
fight.
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART THREE: THE
RING OF A SORCERER! over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we watch,
the title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade to
black.]
[Scene: Back to the schoolyard. Kuno is staring at Chris, saying nothing.
We can hear the wind in the background. Suddenly, he raises his bokken
and charges Chris.]
Kuno: YAH! DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DAAA! [Thrusts bokken at
Chris rapidly, who begins to whirl his broom around to block them.]
Chris: Leave me alone! [Chris takes a step back, spins the top of his
broom. Then he catches Kuno's bokken with the end of the broom, snapping
it.]
Kuno: I shall not be disarmed. [Draws new bokken.] Have at you! [Swings
at Chris.]
Chris: Don't you ever learn? [Blocks the bokken with the broom held high,
and then breaks the bokken with his right hand.]
Kuno: Arrgh. [Grabs a bokken handed to him by Sasuke.] YYYAAAHHH!!!
[We focus back on Ranma and Akane, who are looking rather bored. We see
numerous broken bokkens fly around them, making for quite a mess. Finally
we come back to Kuno, who is holding his last bokken, broken of course, and
Chris, who is standing at the ready, broom held in both hands. Sweat has
beaded on his forehead, but he's not breathing too hard.]
Chris: Are we done for today?
Kuno: NO! [Turns to Sasuke.] Run home and get me more bokkens. I must
defeat this vile gaijin.
Sasuke: But Master Kuno, we took all the bokkens when we left this
morning. There aren't any to get from home.
Kuno: Erk! Well then, we'll have to stop by the market on the way home
today. [Turns to Chris.] You may have vanquished me this day, but do not
rest easy. I shall train night and day, and when I can face you without
the loss of my weapon, YOU SHALL DIE FOOLISH GAIJIN!! AH HA HA HA!!!
[Suddenly Kuno flies into the stratosphere, and Ranma is standing with his
fist upraised.]
Ranma: That's for calling me a coward.
[Fade out on Kuno's scream. Next Scene: Ranma and Chris are doing
bare-handed katas in the backyard of the dojo. Chris is watching Ranma,
and copying his movements. After a while, Ranma looks over at Chris.]
Ranma: You know, I never got a chance to ask you. What was it you did
yesterday to shatter Kuno's bokken.
Chris: The Hokori-ken? The Dust Punch? It's a special technique of
Janijutsu. [Smiles at himself.] The only one I know, really.
Ranma: How did you learn it?
Chris: It's quite simple, once you know how. You start with a dusty
table...
[We fade to a younger looking Chris, about 10 or 12. He is standing above
a dinner table, which is covered in dust.]
Chris's Voice: Then, you simply punch over it. [Young Chris punches over
the table, and nothing happens.] After a while, you begin to push the dust
off the table without even touching it. [We see the younger Chris punch
again, and this time a small gust of wind blows a swath of dust off the
table. The younger Chris looks happy. We fade back to Ranma and Chris.]
Chris: With practice you can learn to focus the punch, and hit things at a
range. Quite a useful skill.
Ranma: I wonder how long it would take me to learn it.
Chris: It only took me about five years.
Ranma: [Looks a little depressed.] Never mind. I don't plan to spend the
next five years dusting tables.
Chris: [Thinks] It took that long because that table only needed dusting
about once a week. [Out loud] I'm sure you could master it in considerably
less time, if you were determined.
Ranma: Hmm. I'll think about it. [Cracks his knuckles.] Like you said,
it's a useful skill.
Kasumi's Voice: Ranma, Chris. Come inside, it's time for dinner.
[Ranma and Chris run inside at top speed. Scene Change: We are on top the
the Tendo Dojo. Chris is sitting and staring at the stars thoughtfully.
After a moment, the stars he's staring at waver into a vague outline of a
woman's face.]
Chris, thinking: Why can't I get her out of my head? After all the things
I've heard about her, about how insane she is, and I still want to be with
her. And yet, I saw something in those eyes, something beyond the
obsession...[His head goes down, and he clenches his fists.]
Chris, out loud: Why me? [Chris sighs heavily.] And she's in love with
Ranma...
Ryouga: Who is?
Chris: YAH! [Nearly falls of roof.] Don't do that!
Ryouga: Who's in love with Ranma that you care about, Chris?
Chris: Uh...[Blushes.] I'd rather not say.
Ryouga: It's not Akane, is it! Why I'll...[Chris puts a hand on Ryouga's
shoulder.]
Chris: It's not Akane, it's...Well, like I said, I'd rather not say.
Ryouga: [Calming down.] Well, as long as it isn't Akane...I guess you
know how it feels.
Chris: How what feels.
Ryouga: Loving someone who is taken by Ranma.
Chris: [Raises hands defensively] Hey, who said I was in love? I
just...[trails off as he looks back at the stars.]
Ryouga: Well, however you feel, you must agree that it is in your own best
interest to destroy Ranma Saotome.
Chris: [Blink, Blink.] Back the revenge trolley up, Ryouga. Why would I
want to destroy Ranma? He's not a bad guy.
Ryouga: But he stands between you and the person you care for. He must be
removed.
Chris: I can't attack Ranma just because someone I like happens to be in
love with him. It's not like it's his fault. [Sighs.] I should have
known better anyway. I just can't get her out of my head.
Ryouga: I can't believe this! Ranma has taken the woman you care for, and
you won't do anything.
Chris: Hey, it'll either work out, or it won't. I don't believe in taking
a woman like that. If me and her are going to be together someday, it will
be because she chose me, not because I destroyed all of her rivals.
[Smiles.] Besides, I haven't really got a chance to talk with her yet. I
don't even really know her.
Ryouga: I wish you better luck than I have had with my love life.
Chris: Thanks Ryouga. I hope we can be friends, despite that promise I'm
holding over you. You're a good guy too.
Ryouga: I'd like that. [Suddenly looks behind Chris, toward the front
gate.] Uh oh.
Chris: [Looks toward the gate.] What's the matter?
Ryouga: I think I just saw Shampoo ride up to the dojo. [Looks worried.]
I'd better get back to Akane.
Chris: You don't think Shampoo would actually kill Akane, do you? I mean,
it seems a little silly.
Ryouga: [Climbing down off the roof.] I wouldn't take any chances where
Shampoo and Ranma are concerned.
Chris: Um, Ryouga. Akane's room is on the other side.
Ryouga: Oh. Thanks. [Walks to a new wrong side.]
Chris: No no, the other side...
[Scene Change: Kasumi is answering the door. Shampoo is standing there,
with Cologne. Shampoo is holding a gift wrapped box.]
Kasumi: Hello. Who is it?
Shampoo: Nihao! It Shampoo and Great-grandmother.
Cologne: Hello child. Is my future son-in-law at home?
Kasumi: Why yes he is. Would you like to come inside?
Shampoo: Ranma home! Where?! Ranma come get nice present from beautiful
bride! [Shampoo runs inside.]
Cologne: Ah, young love. [Bounds off after Shampoo.]
Kasumi: Oh my.
[Scene Change: Chris and Ryouga are down off the roof and walking into the
front room. Shampoo bursts inside, Cologne not far behind.]
Shampoo: Shampoo bring present for Ranma. [Looks at Ryouga.] Do silly
lost boy know where Ranma?
Ryouga: Hey! I am not silly!
Chris: You must be Shampoo. I think Ranma is upstairs.
Shampoo: Aiya! Shampoo coming Ranma! [Shampoo dashes out, again.]
Cologne: Hmm. I thought I knew everyone one who lives here. Who are you,
sonny? [Points staff at Chris.]
Chris: Me? I'm a new student of Mr. Tendo's, Chris Tazuki. I'll probably
be here for a year or so.
Cologne: Tazuki, huh. Anything Goes School of Janijutsu, right.
Chris: That's right. How did you know?
Cologne: After my daughter got herself engaged to my future son-in-law, I
did some research on the Anything Goes School. So, you're here to make
sure that he doesn't get in any more trouble, eh.
Chris: I'll try, but with Ranma, that's a pretty tall order. Mostly I'm
hoping I can sort out this fiancee business. I hope to get the numbers cut
down somewhat during my year here.
Cologne: That's easier than you might think. Just get Ranma to choose my
grand-daughter.
Chris: Uh, we'll see...
[Scene Change: We are in Nabiki's room, with Ranma sitting on the floor,
and Nabiki sitting on the bed.]
Ranma: Nabiki, what do you think of Chris?
Nabiki: I'm always happy to meet a potential customer. But you didn't
come in here to ask about Daddy's new student.
Ranma: Well...How much would you charge to get Kodachi off my back? I'm
starting to worry about her, considering she just snuck in the other night.
Nabiki: Well now, that's quite a service. [Looks thoughtful.] I'm not
really sure. Let me think about it for awhile. I'll let you know if I
can. [Winks and points at Ranma.] And if you can afford it.
Ranma: [Gets up.] Just don't take too long. The last thing I want to do
is wake up to a wedding with Kodachi. See ya. [Walks out the door. Right
into Shampoo.]
Shampoo: Aiya! [Glomps onto Ranma.]
Ranma: Sh-sh-shampoo! [Turns a bit and begins to stagger backwards.]
Shampoo: Shampoo miss Ranma! [Ranma continues to stagger backwards until
he falls through the door of a room. Akane's room. Chris and Ryouga reach
the top of the stairs at the same time.]
Akane: What do you think you're doing?!! [Akane is in her pajamas,
apparently ready for bed. She pulls out her shinai, and waves it
threateningly.]
Ranma: Akane wait! I can explain...[Shampoo rubs her head against Ranma's
chest.]
Akane: I can't believe you! Carrying on like that, in my father's house!
Ranma, you, you IDIOT!! [Bashes him with the shinai. WHACK!! Ranma flies
out of Shampoo's arms and lands immbedded in the wall of the hallway.]
Shampoo: Why violent girl get in way of Shampoo and Ranma? Shampoo think
Akane jealous.
Akane: I AM NOT!! [Akane and Shampoo face off, and start to glow blue.
They stay that way for a moment, but then Chris steps between them. Both
girls blink back and stop glowing.]
Chris: Listen, let's talk about this before we try to pummel each other
into the ground. [Looks over at Ranma.] All right, someone help me pull
Ranma out of the wall, and we'll all go downstairs for some tea, okay.
[Scene Change: Ranma and company are all sitting aroung the table in the
front room. Those present: Ranma, Akane, Shampoo, Cologne, Chris, and
Ryouga. We see Kasumi go in and out, serving tea to everyone but Chris,
who is drinking a soda in a green can, its label covered by his hand.
Shampoo is no longer latched to Ranma, but is sitting close to him.]
Chris: So why are you here Shampoo? I thought I heard something about a
present.
Shampoo: Shampoo here give Ranma very important gift. [Hands it to
Ranma.] Here Ranma!
Ranma: Wh-what is it?
Cologne: It is a very important family heirloom. Open it and see.
[Everyone watches as Ranma opens the box. Inside is a western-style man's
wedding ring. It is simple gold, and has no markings.]
Ryouga: A ring?
Cologne: Not just any ring. That is the legendary ring of Kir Tolmar, my
great-grandfather.
Ranma: That's great, but what am I supposed to do with it?
Cologne: Legend has it that Kir Tolmar, a powerful sorcerer, fell into a
Jhusenkyo spring. He had that ring made to hold himself in his man's body.
It has great power, son-in-law, and Shampoo gives it to you.
Ranma: Alright! Now I can finally be rid of my curse...[Is about to put
it on when Chris grabs it from the box.] What'd you do that for?
Chris: I doubt that Shampoo and her great-grandmother would just give you
the ring. [Turns to Cologne.] What's the catch?
Cologne: Hmm. You're not as slow as you look, janitor boy. There is a
catch. Kir Tolmar's bride, the woman Shampoo was named for, also put a
spell on that ring. Anyone willingly donning the ring will find himself
deeply in love with the person who gave him the ring. [Smiles in Ranma's
direction.] So, are you ready to stop fighting it sonny, and become my
future son-in- law.
Ranma: Huh? [Everyone is staring at Ranma, waiting for his answer.
Everyone but Chris, who is slowly backing up.]
Ryouga: Go ahead Ranma. Just go with Shampoo and make everyone's life
happier.
Akane: Ranma. I-I...[Gets up and leaves. We see a glint of tears as she
runs off.]
Ranma: Akane, wait. Gulp! [Ranma finds himself surrounded by Shampoo,
Cologne, and Ryouga.]
Shampoo: Ranma put ring on right now and end silly Akane nonsense.
Ryouga: That's right Ranma. Just leave Akane to me.
Cologne: You're not getting away this time, sonny. [Looks around.] Who
has the ring?
Shampoo, Ryouga: Hmm?
[Everyone looks over at Chris, who has the table between himself and
everyone else. He smiles.]
Chris: HOKORI-KEN!! [Chris aims both fists at the table. A huge cloud of
dust rises from it, blinding Ryouga, Shampoo, and Cologne. They also start
coughing.] I'm glad I haven't had a chance to dust that table recently.
[He holds his breath and jumps through the cloud. On the other side, Ranma
is just standing there, stupidly.] Run you moron! If you value your
freedom at all, run!
Ranma: Huh? Oh yeah! [Both Ranma and Chris tear out the back door.
Shampoo, Ryouga, and Cologne continue to cough until Cologne begins to use
her staff as a rotary fan, to blow away the dust.]
Shampoo: Ranma come back here. Come and marry Shampoo! [Shampoo and
Ryouga start to chase after Ranma and Chris, when suddenly Cologne is
standing in front of them.]
Cologne: Do not worry children. No matter what tricks that janitor boy
tries, my future son-in- law will have to decide whether to live with his
curse forever, or marry Shampoo. [Smiles at Shampoo.] Have faith in your
great-grandmother child. Let's go. We still have to open the restaurant
in the morning.
Shampoo: Shampoo coming great-grandmother. [Sighs.] Shampoo wait for her
husband. [Both Cologne and Shampoo leave. Ryouga is walking outside.]
Ryouga: Which way did they go...
[Scene Change: Ranma and Chris are sitting up in a large tree that
overlooks the Tendo Dojo. Chris is watching the front door, but Ranma is
preoccupied by what he sees in Akane's bedroom. Akane is crying with her
head on her desk, and a tear or two has made its way down Ranma's cheeks.]
Ranma, thinking: I hate it when she does that. [Ranma clenches his
teeth.] It's not fair. WHAT DO I DO? If I don't marry Shampoo, I may
have to live with this curse forever. If I do marry Shampoo...[The thought
trails off, but we hear him say out loud, but softly.] Akane.
Chris: What was that, Ranma?
Ranma: Huh? Oh, nothing.
Chris: [Looks at Akane's room, and then back to Ranma.] Ranma, if I were
you, I would find this decision easy. I'd never let myself be forced into
love. [Looks thoughtful.] I'm not you though. I don't know what its like
to live with your curse. Not to mention that multiple fiancee thing.
Ranma: It sucks, trust me. It really does.
Chris: [Looks back at the dojo.] Look at it this way. At least you can
turn back.
[A few thoughtful moments pass.]
Ranma: I won't do it. [Chris looks at Ranma.] I won't let Shampoo
manipulate me into marrying her. [Ranma stands up.] I won't let anyone
choose who I marry but myself!
Chris: [To himself.] That's the way Ranma. That is the way. [To Ranma.]
Maybe you better tell Akane.
Ranma: Huh? [Looks back at Akane's room. Akane is still crying.] Oh.
Yeah! [Ranma jumps off the branch, and runs into the house.]
Chris: Oh hey. Ranma! Catch! [Ranma looks back to see a small glint.
He catches the glint out of the air. It's the ring.] You'll have to give
that back to Shampoo yourself.
Ranma: Thanks for all the help Chris. I owe you.
Chris: Don't worry. I'm just doing my job.
[Scene Change: Ranma is knocking on Akane's door.]
Ranma: Akane, open up. It's me, Ranma.
Akane, sobbing: Go -sob- away.
Ranma: Don't cry Akane. I'm not going to marry Shampoo!
Akane: [The sobbing trails off, and Akane opens the door and pokes out her
head. She has tears drying on her face.] What makes you think I care
about that? I could care less if you ran off with that purple-haired twit.
Ranma: Then why are you crying?
Akane: I CAN'T FIND P-CHAN!!!
[POW. Akane slams her door, and on the other side, we see her sniff once
and smile. Ranma stands there for a moment, with a large knot on the side
of his face.]
Ranma: I will never understand women. Never.
[End Episode 3]
[Episode 4-It Can't Get Any Worse!]
[We are at the Tendo Dojo, early in the morning. Ranma is practicing
punches by the pond, Genma and Soun are playing Go, Chris is eating a late
breakfast, Kasumi is hanging laundry, and Akane and Nabiki are watching TV.
Everything is peaceful and quiet.]
Ranma: [Stops punching to wipe sweat from his brow.] Man. What a good
day. Akane isn't mad at me, Ukyou is preparing for a business trip to
China, I haven't seen Kodachi in days, and Shampoo will leave me alone as
long as she thinks that I'm thinking about the ring. [Pulls the ring from
his pocket, and spins it in his hand.] It just can't get any better.
[Ranma smiles and lands a quick kick on his practice board. Then he does a
backflip and then a handstand. He is cheering all the while.]
Nabiki: [Looks away from the TV to watch Ranma.] Ranma's in quite a good
mood. I guess a break from being hounded by most of the free world's women
is overdue.
Akane: [Staring at the TV.] I'm not hounding him. [Turns her head to
look outside.] Huh?
Ranma: What could possibly go wrong? [Splash! A bucket is overturned on
Ranma's head. Ranma-chan pulls off the bucket and looks around for the
culprit.]
Happosai: Ranma! [Latches himself to Ranma-chan's breasts.]
Ranma: AAAAHHHH!!!!
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART FOUR: IT
CAN'T GET ANY WORSE! over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we
watch, the title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade
to black.]
[Scene: We see the front of the Tendo Dojo, looking peaceful and quiet.
The camera pans over the roof and we see Ranma-chan and Happosai engaged in
their usual pastime; Ranma-chan trying to kill Happosai, and Happosai
laughing at and taunting Ranma-chan.]
Ranma-chan: C'mere you old fool. [Swings and misses Happosai.]
Happosai: Be careful what you wish for. [Leaps into Ranma-chan's bosom.]
You just might get it.
Ranma-chan: AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!! [Pounds Happosai off her chest. Tries to
stomp him and misses.] Leave me alone you old letch!
Happosai: Is that any way to treat your master. [Slides his pipe around
Ranma-chan's ankle, and flips her into the pond. The ring falls out of
Ranma-chan's hand and Happosai catches it.]
Happosai: What's this? [Bites it.] Hmm. To hard to be gold, must be
worthless. [See's Ranma- chan's hand reach out of the pond. Happosai
flips the ring back.] Here, you can have this back.
[Slow motion: Ranma-chan's hand is open wide, and reaching out of the
pond. The ring flips toward the hand, and lands neatly on her ring finger.
Then we speed up to normal and watch Ranma-chan climb out of the pond.
There is silence for the next few moments.]
Happosai: What's the matter? I'm not a complete crook, y'know.
Soun: It's not that master. That's a magic ring that Shampoo gave to
Ranma.
Happosai: A magic ring, huh.
[Chris, Akane, and Nabiki run over to Ranma-chan. Chris grabs Ranma-chan
by the shirt to hold her up to his eyes.]
Chris: Ranma, are you okay?
Ranma-chan: Uh, yeah.
Nabiki: No sudden urges to marry purple-haired women?
Ranma-chan: Uh, no.
Akane: No sudden bursts of affection for Shampoo?
Ranma-chan: No, of course not. [Chris sets Ranma-chan down.]
Chris: Hmm. I guess the "magic ring" was just a sham.
Nabiki: Let's see if the other power works. [We see her grab a kettle out
of the kitchen, and run back outside.] Here goes.
Ranma-chan: [As the water is poured on her.] Ow! Hey, that's hot.
[Ranma-chan doesn't change.]
Akane: Do you know what this means?
Chris: Ranma, if you take off the ring and change back, you can stay man
forever, and still not marry Shampoo.
Ranma-chan: Alright!! Let's...[tugs on ring] go...[tugs harder, Akane
and Chris start to look worried] Uh, guys, it won't come off. [Chris and
Nabiki's eyes get huge, and Akane looks angry.]
Akane: WHAT?! [Grabs Ranma-chan's hand and pulls, hard.]
Ranma-chan: OW! Let go of me! That hurts! [Akane pulls at Ranma-chan's
arm and puts her feet on Ranma-chan's side.] OW! Stop that!
Chris: Oh boy. Now Ranma's going to be a girl forever. [Akane hears this
and falls off Ranma.]
Ranma-chan: [Pan into her face, and we see her shock.] A girl. Forever.
[Slide back while Ranma-chan makes fists.] NNNNOOOO!!!!
Nabiki: Maybe we should go talk with Cologne. She might know what to do.
[Scene Change: Now we are at the Nekohanten, the Cat Cafe. Ranma-chan,
Akane, Chris and Nabiki are all seated at one table, and Kasumi, Genma,
Soun, and Happosai are seated at another. Shampoo is serving Genma, Soun,
and Happosai ramen, and she heads back into the kitchen.]
Ranma-chan: Hey, um...Shampoo, can you tell the old ghoul that I need to
speak to-OW! [Cologne bashes Ranma-chan on the back of the head.]
Shampoo: Why you no tell great-grandmother you self? She right behind
you.
Ranma-chan: Thanks. [Turns to Cologne.]
Cologne: What do you want future son-in-law? Have you finally decided to
choose Shampoo?
Ranma-chan: NO! [Looks over and sees angry Shampoo.] er, I mean...[Shows
Cologne the ring on her finger.] How do you get this blasted thing off?!
Shampoo: Aiya! Ranma choose Shampoo to be bride! [Glomps onto
Ranma-chan.] Shampoo so happy! Wo Ai Ni!
Ranma-chan: Huh? No it's not like that!
Chris: Actually, it was something of an accident.
Cologne: Don't try to pull a fast one on me, janitor boy. How can someone
accidentally get a ring put on their finger?
Happosai, from the next table: Hey, how was I supposed to know that piece
of junk was a magic ring?
Cologne: [Looks over at Happosai, then sighs.] Never mind, I think I
know. [Looks back over at Ranma-chan.] You are in quite a bind
son-in-law. There is no way that I know of to remove that ring.
Ranma-chan: You mean I have to be a girl for the rest of my life? OH NO!
[Ranma-chan dashes from the table and runs to the kitchen, and begins to
splash herself with hot water.]
Ranma-chan, faintly from the kitchen: It's hot! Ahhh! I'm still a girl.
Nabiki: [To Akane.] Wow Akane. I thought is was bad before, but now
you're engaged to a full- time girl.
Akane: Not if I can help it. [Turns to Cologne.] Isn't there anything
that we can do? Anything at all?
Cologne: The only thing I can think of is to seek the man who made the
ring. [In the background, we see Soun and Genma run off into the kitchen.
We hear a few more splashes and Ranma-chan scream.]
Chris: [Winces at commotion in the kitchen.] Didn't you say that Kir
Tolmar made that ring? Isn't he dead by now?
Cologne: He had it made by a friend of his. He wasn't powerful enough to
overcome the power of Jhusenkyo, but he knew someone who was: A gaijin
sorcerer called 'The Master' made it for him. That one may still be alive.
Chris: [Frowning] A man who called himself 'The Master' was one of the
founding members of my martial art. If it is the same man, how can he
still be alive?
Cologne: For one who can overcome the dreadful power of the springs of
Jhusenkyo, an extended life is not so hard a task. Indeed, I have heard
many stories about this man's skills, including tales of him curing the
wounded of body and wounded of soul, spinning monsters out of the air, and
calling bolts of lightning out of the sky.
Nabiki: Where are we going to find this man? I mean, it been quite a
while since anyone has seen him, right? Where do we start?
Cologne: Perhaps the laboratory where he was supposed to have made his
greatest works. It is said to lie deep within China. [Pulls a map from
her pocket.] This map has been handed down by my family. It was supposed
to have belonged to Kir Tolmar himself, and it should lead us safely there.
Akane: Well, let's go! We can't let Ranma stay as a girl!
Shampoo: Akane right! We go China right away! [Shampoo looks sideways at
Akane, and thinks:] Maybe I get chance finish off violent girl too.
Chris, thinking: The Master was said to know the final attack for my
school. Not to mention the fact that 'she' could be cured...[out loud.]
I'm going too!
Nabiki: How are you going to get there? I mean, it's not like any of us
have the money to get to China.
[Akane, Shampoo, and Chris both stare at Nabiki. Cologne just laughs and
lights her pipe.]
Nabiki: Hmm. Maybe we do know someone, but I don't think Akane or Ranma
will enjoy the trip much with him along.
Akane: You mean Kuno, don't you. [Sighs and looks into her lap.] Well, I
guess I can live with it. After all, it worked out okay last summer, at
least until we ran into that storm.
Chris: [Shakes his head.] That's a story you'll have to tell me about.
But regardless, I think I have an idea that will help us...
[All of a sudden, Mousse crashes through the door of the Nekohanten. He
rights himself-we can see his glasses perched atop his head-and turns to a
potted plant.]
Mousse: Ah, my beautiful Shampoo! You look lovely in that green dress...
Shampoo: Shampoo over here silly duck!
Mousse: [Glasses slip down, and he sees that he is talking to a plant.
Clearing his throat, he turns to Shampoo.] Oh, Shampoo, there you are. I
have come to ask you on a date...
Shampoo: Answer always no, silly blind boy! Shampoo no date you!
Mousse: B-but Shampoo...
Shampoo: Shampoo no date you even if not busy with Ranma problem.
Mousse: Ranma problem?
Cologne: It seems my future son-in-law has accidentally put on Kir
Tolmar's ring while in his cursed form. We are all discussing how to go
about removing it.
Mousse: YOU HAVE HAD THE RING ALL THIS TIME!!! I COULD HAVE BEEN CURED!!!
[Turns to the kitchen.] RANMA SAOTOME, PREPARE TO GIVE UP THAT RING!!!
[Mousse snaps his arms in a ready position, and on each arm he suddenly has
talon-like claws. He runs toward the kitchen, which has a subdued and wet
looking Ranma-chan coming out, and prepares to strike. Then Akane and
Shampoo land a simultaneous jump kick on his back. Needless to say, Mousse
goes down.]
Ranma-chan: Mousse?
Mousse: Unnggh. [Shakes head twice, and then looks around. We are seeing
from Mousse's point of view, and it is blurred, both by the attack, and by
the fact that his glasses are on the floor. We see a few blurry shapes,
and then lock on a big, blue one.] Ranma Saotome.
Chris: Who, me? [Chris points to himself confusedly.]
Mousse: Don't play dumb with me, Saotome. I don't care if I have to cut
off your finger, I'm going to get that ring!
Chris: Hey, Ranma's over there. Put on your glasses!
Mousse: I don't need them to deal with you! [Gets up. By now, his claws
are gone.] Face my FIST OF THE WHITE SWAN, HAKUCHOU-KEN!!! [By now Genma
and Soun are back in to room, just in time to see Chris swatted by the
extremely fast training potty.]
Chris: Ohff!! [Chris flips over backward and lands on a table, breaking
it.]
Cologne: Foolish boy! That is coming out of your pay.
Ranma-chan: Hey, I thought he quit using that toilet punch after I blocked
it.
Mousse: I never stop using a weapon just because it might embarrass
me...[Looks back over at Ranma-chan, and then puts on his glasses. He
stares at Ranma, and blinks twice.] Ranma, how did you get over here?
Ranma-chan: I've been here for the last few minutes, moron.
Mousse: [Starts to look back.] Then who did I...uh oh.
[Chris slowly starts to rise off the ground. He is looking down, and
debris from the table is falling from his shoulders. We slide over to a
shot of Akane's face, looking worried.]
Akane: I've never seen him really angry before. Who knows what could
happen?
[We come back to a shot of Chris, or more particularly, his right hand. It
is empty, and it is slowly extended, perhaps in a position to deliver a
deadly chop...we see a view of everyone's face, looking frightened and
worried...then we jump back to see a smiling Chris with his hand held out
to shake Mousse's hand.]
Chris: Wow, you can really pack a wallop, you know that?
Mousse: [Slowly takes Chris's hand.] You mean you're not angry?
Chris: Nahh. No need to fight over a simple error. I don't think we've
been introduced: my name is Chris Tazuki. You're Mousse, right?
Mousse: Uh, yeah. [Lets go of Chris's hand.] Why are you here? You're
not here for Shampoo are you?!
Chris: Uh, no.
Mousse: THEN SHE'S NOT GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU!!!
Chris: No, no! That's not what I meant. Shampoo is very
beautiful...[nods to Shampoo, who smiles.] but I'm only here to see what I
can do to help Ranma. It's something our families have been doing for
centuries.
Mousse: Oh. Are you a martial artist then? I noticed that you got up
pretty fast from my punch.
Ranma-chan: Anyone could get up from that weak attack.
Chris: He flipped me over, and broke a table with me. That's not an
attack a normal person can walk away from. [Turns back to Mousse.] Yeah,
I'm a martial artist. Actually I'm staying with Mr. Soun to brush up on my
combat skills. [Smiles at himself.] Maybe it'll help me to see the next
one coming.
Soun: That's right. But enough small talk-What are we going to do about
Ranma? We have to get the ring off him.
Genma: That's true. I think I might just know a way, however. NOW
TENDO!!! [Genma and Soun jump on top of Ranma-chan, Genma with a meat
cleaver. They wrestle around for a while, and Ranma-chan eventally flips
both onto neighboring tables, Happosai leaping off the table that Soun
lands on, and landing near Cologne. Ranma-chan gets up, and eyes the meat
cleaver she managed to get a hold of in the struggle.]
Cologne: Those tables are going on your tab, future son-in-law.
Ranma-chan: A meat cleaver? You were going to CUT OFF MY FINGER!!!
[Neither Genma or Soun respond, they both just groan.]
Chris: Now, you see, breaking a table is quite hard on the body. [Walks
over to Genma and Soun.] I think we can regard the removal of Ranma's
fingers a last resort, especially considering the fact that it may be
possible to get the ring removed.
Ranma-chan: Removed! How? I thought the old troll didn't know how to get
it off.
Cologne: Don't call me a troll. And while I don't know how to get it off,
I know who we can ask.
Ranma-chan: Well who then? Some even older troll back at the amazon
village...[BONK! Cologne bashes Ranma-chan on the head.]
Chris: Actually, it's a man called 'the Master.' He made the original
ring for Kir Tolmar, and might still be alive.
Mousse: Where might we find that 'Master?' [thought to himself.] If I
can get the ring from Ranma, maybe I can use it to get myself engaged to
Shampoo, not to mention end my own curse.
Nabiki: Cologne says that she has a map to his old lab, located somewhere
in China. All we need to do now is arrange suitable transportation...
[Scene Change: Chris and Nabiki are walking up to the Kuno mansion. Chris
has his broom on his back, and is dressed in his workout coveralls, and
Nabiki is carrying a large, flat envelope of something.]
Chris: I don't like the idea of lying to Kuno, but I think it's the only
chance we have.
Nabiki: Well, we could tell the truth, but then we'd spend the whole trip
pulling Kuno off Ranma and Akane.
Chris: 'We'd' Are you planning on coming along then? We could use your
help.
Nabiki: [Smiling winningly.] I can't let my best customers get away, can
I? Besides, this way I can get a vacation from school a little early.
Chris: Okay, I'll buy that. But do you think Kuno will buy the story
about Akane and 'the pig- tailed girl' being kidnapped and taken to China.
Nabiki: Actually, I'm a little surprised it hasn't happened more often.
Besides, if Kuno-baby is little reluctant, these doctored photographs
should help convince him. [Shakes the envelope.] To be honest, I'm more
worried about Kodachi. I don't think she'll want to go, with her 'Ranma-
darling' not going along, but you never know with that woman.
Chris: She's not that bad, is she?
Nabiki: Probably worse. I don't know anyone more insane than Kodachi
Kuno, the rest of the Kuno family included. She is so obsessed with Ranma
it's almost scary.
Chris: Oh. [Chris is quiet and subdued for the rest of the trip,
something that Nabiki takes note of. Eventally they arrive at the Kuno
mansion.]
Nabiki: Are you ready? [Chris nods.] Okay, lets get this party started.
Chris: [Walks up to the door and knocks on it with his broom.] KUNO!!
Get out here and face your fate like a man!
Kuno, from inside: Who dares challenge the great Tatewaki Kuno at the gate
of his own home?
Chris: It's me, the gaijin from school. I have information you need to
have.
Kuno, from inside: YOU!! [Kuno bursts outside, bokken raised high above
his head. He stops suddenly when he sees Nabiki.] Why have you come to my
home, Nabiki Tendo? What news do you bring that shall surely strip the
cash from my person?
Nabiki: Why Kuno, I'm shocked. I came to give you some news about my
sister and your dear 'pig tailed girl.' But, if your not interested...
Kuno: Hold! Come inside to discuss your offer. [Bares his teeth at
Chris.] But, leave the gaijin dog at the gate.
Chris: Fine by me. I'll just wait here.
Nabiki: Okay. I'll be out in a while.
[Nabiki leaves with Kuno. Chris waits around for a few minutes when he
begins to hear a laugh.]
Kodachi: AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! [Kodachi flips over the wall and lands,
swirling her ribbon and spraying black rose petals around.] Well, what are
you doing here? Have you come to give me a message of love from my Ranma
darling.
Chris: K-kodachi! [Chris's eyes glaze over.] Uh, Hi! Actually, I'm just
waiting for Nabiki to get done trick-um convincing Kuno to help us.
Kodachi: Oh, so the little mercenary is helping herself to my family's
money again. My dear, sweet brother will never learn.
Chris, thinking: I've got to think of a way we can spend more time
together. I know![out loud] Kodachi, there is something you ought to
know...
[Scene Change: We are in Kuno's room, with Nabiki sitting on his bed,
photos of both Akane and Ranma-chan spread over the top. Kuno is handing
over a large wad of bills.]
Nabiki: Thank you for the contribution, Kuno-baby. [Pockets the money.]
Now, for the reason I came. I think you should know something about Akane
and the pig-tailed girl.
Kuno: Yes, I believe that you mentioned them earlier. What about my twin
loves? I have missed them terribly. Have they suffered in my absence? I
should visit more often...[Nabiki reaches up and closes his lips.]
Nabiki: They have been kidnapped. [Kuno jumps back.]
Kuno: KIDNAPPED!!! [Scene Change]
Kodachi: KIDNAPPED!!! My darling Ranma!
Chris: Uh huh. I came here with Nabiki to see if we couldn't borrow his
boat. After Akane, Ranma, and the pig-tailed girl were kidnapped by
that...fiend, yeah, that's it, fiend...I knew we needed help. Will you
come with me-I mean, us?
Kodachi: Of course! That fiend will rue the day he laid hands on my
Ranma!
Nabiki: 'Laid his hands on my Ranma?' [Nabiki is standing in the door
with Kuno ready to go behind her.] What have you been telling her?
Chris: Uh, who me? I've just been telling her the truth about how Akane,
the pig-tailed girl, and Ranma were all kidnapped...[His hand goes behind
his head, and he begins to laugh nervously] heh, heh, heh, heh, heh.
Kodachi: Yes dear brother. We must make use of the family vessel to save
our loves.
Nabiki: Family vessel? Didn't you ever get your boat fixed Kuno-baby?
Kuno: Leave my Lady Bincense out of this! The current family vessel,
Sub-dragon the Sixth should suit our purposes nicely!
Kodachi: Let's go fetch the Sub-dragon before father wakes up, hmm brother
dear? [Both Kodachi and Kuno run off to grab the boat. Nabiki turns to
Chris, a confused look on her face.]
Nabiki: Why did you ask Kodachi to go along? We don't need anymore insane
people on this journey.
Chris: Well, we couldn't just ask Kuno along without inviting Kodachi,
right? I mean, she'd just follow him, and then we'd have to deal with her
later. I just made a, er, preemptive strike.
Nabiki: I just hope we don't come to regret your 'preemptive strike.'
[Thought to herself.] And there is more here than you're telling. I think
I'm going to enjoy this trip...
[End Episode 4]
[Episode 5-All Aboard the Boat to China!]
[Scene: We are on a calm city street. It is very quiet, the only noise
being generated by an old man sweeping his walkway. The man stops sweeping
and looks up to the sky, and sighs contentedly. We get to see his
perspective, a clear blue sky, with a beautiful sun. Then a small dark red
blur darts past his view of the sky.]
Old Man: Eh?
[Then we come back to the first view, and we see the old man stepped on by
Ranma-chan. He goes down in his pile of dust.]
Ranma-chan: Come back here, you old lech! Its your fault that I'm like
this!
Happosai: [Down the street a way.] Hah! I don't think so! [Starts to
run again.]
Ranma-chan: Get back here! I'm going to kick you to Jhusenkyo! [Old Man
looks up from his pile of dust, and spits some out.]
Happosai: [Starting to fade off.] Got to catch me first! [We pan back
till we can see the whole street. Happosai is running down the street,
with Ranma-chan in hot pursuit. The Old Man gets up and begins to shake
his broom.]
Old Man: [Shouted from a distance.] Get back here you juvenile
deliquent!!
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART FIVE: ALL
ABOARD THE BOAT TO CHINA! over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we
watch, the title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade
to black.]
[Next Scene: We are in the Tendo dojo front room, which is currently
filled with backpacks, tents, bedrolls, and other camping equipment.
Akane, Chris, and Nabiki are running in and out, filling the packs. Kasumi
is sitting down at the table, talking to Soun and Genma.]
Kasumi: ...and if I leave, the house will stay clean until we return. So
you see father, there is no reason for me not to go with you.
Soun: [Tears running down face, as usual] But, dear Kasumi, what if
something should happen to you?
Genma: Your father is right. You should stay at home, where it is safe.
Nabiki, passing by: So, its all right if me and Akane risk our lives.
Soun and Genma, defensivly: Oh no, we didn't mean it like that...
Nabiki: Besides, if Kasumi doesn't go, Akane will have to cook for
everyone. [Soun and Genma look at each other for a moment] Unless you have
about 10,000 yen to pay me to cook. [Soun stands up and points at Kasumi.]
Soun: Kasumi, you are going with us, and that is final.
Genma: Yeah Kasumi, you should listen to your father. [BONK! Genma is
hit by a cookpan thrown by Akane.]
Akane: Thanks for the vote of confidence, Mr. Saotome.
Kasumi: Why Akane, don't take it so personally. Why, this way you can
concentrate on your martial arts. After all, you've never been on a
training trip before.
Akane: [Brightening.] You're right! That's why Ranma's better than me,
he's been on more training trips. [Looks over at Soun, who cringes away.]
So, are you and Mr. Saotome ready to train me Dad.
Soun: Uh...[eyes roll over to Genma, who gives a thumbs up.] Sure. We
will train you well daughter, as befits the heir to the Anything Goes
School of Martial Arts.
Akane: Okay! Just let me go change into my gi...[Akane runs off, and Soun
and Genma breath a sigh of relief.]
Soun: That was close, Saotome.
Genma: You can say that again, Tendo. [Genma looks left and right, then
gathers Soun in a sort of half-huddle.] Did you make the call?
Soun: The call...Oh yes! Its all set with the temple there. [Laughs
quietly] Ha ha, this was a good idea, Saotome.
Genma: Thank you Tendo. No sooner do we pry that ring from my boy's hand,
than we weld on a second one, and this time there will be no escape...[both
Soun and Genma stand up to laugh out loud.] HA HA HA HA HA!!!
Kasumi: My goodness father, what is so funny? [Both Soun and Genma
freeze, but are saved when Chris walks in.]
Chris: [Carrying four blue shirts just like the one he is wearing.] Oh,
Mr. Tendo, I think I know of one other person we should ask to go with us.
Soun: Who might that be son? [Suddenly, Ryouga bursts in through the
wall.]
Ryouga: I FINALLY MADE IT!! [Looks around.] Oh, hi Mr. Tendo, Mr.
Saotome. Hello Kasumi, Chris. Have any of you seen Ranma? I need to
force him to put on that ring.
Chris: Uh, Ryouga, its a little late for that. Happosai accidentally put
the ring on Ranma in his girl form, and now we're going to China to find
the one man who might be able to remove it.
Ryouga: [Blink, Blink] Oh. [Looks around again.] Okay, I'm going with
you.
Kasumi: Oh my, how noble! Going all the way to China, just to help Ranma
out.
Ryouga: Huh? [Just then we hear Ukyou's voice.]
Ukyou's Voice: Ranma honey, where are you? I cancelled my trip to
China...[Wanders into the front room.] Oh, hi everbody. Has anyone seen
Ranma honey?
Chris: [Sighs.] All right Ukyou, Ryouga, sit down. Kasumi, call Dr. Tofu
and tell him we need his help. I'm only going to explain this once...
[Scene: Ukyou and Ryouga are sitting next to each other at the table, with
Chris pacing before it. Tofu is drinking tea off to the side. The various
packs around the room seem mostly filled, although we still see other
members of the Tendo household going in and out.]
Chris: ...and then, Nabiki and I went to Kuno's to arrange transportation.
We'll be leaving tommorrow.
Ukyou: [Looks a little worried.] What if we can't get the ring off Ranma?
What will we do then?
Chris: Well, as a very last resort, we may have to cut off his finger.
But we will only do that if we can't find any other way to get it off.
Ryouga: Well, I can't just let Ranma go alone on this one. [Shakes his
head] He may be my enemy, but I wouldn't wish that fate on anyone.
[Thinks to himself.] Even though it may give me a better chance at Akane,
I can't let Ranma live like that. [Chris smiles at Ryouga like he knows
what he is thinking.]
Tofu: I will be happy to help Ranma out. I just need to cancel my
appointments...[Kasumi walks in with more tea, and Tofu's glasses fog.]
Kasumi! Hello, what are you doing here?
Kasumi: I live here Dr. Tofu. You know that. Here, let me refresh your
tea. [Pours steaming tea in Tofu's cup.]
Tofu: Thank you Kasumi. [Tofu drains the cup in one gulp, and then his
glasses defog for a moment.] AAAHHH! [Tofu gets up and runs for the
kitchen. We see Chris, Ukyou, Ryouga, and Kasumi looking toward the
kitchen while we hear running water, and a sound not unlike water being
poured on a hot iron.]
Ukyou: I think this will be an interesting trip. As long as we survive.
[Scene Change: We are on a generic dock somewhere, on the banks of some
river. Kuno and Kodachi are standing near Subdragon the Sixth, a large,
almost viking in style, rowboat. They are currently alone.]
Kuno: My sister, I must speak my heart. I chafe at these delays. My
heart lies across the sea. Oh how I long for the presence of my pure
Akane, and my beautiful Pig-tailed girl. How can the time we lose be worth
the allies we stand at watch for. We should leave at once!
Kodachi: You forget dear brother, that we do not know the destination of
our journey. We might leave now for mainland China, but where will we go?
The Empire of the Dragon is a large place brother. The time we save not
searching blindly will be worth the time we spend awaiting our allies.
Kuno: You are of course, correct. But my soul tears further with each
passing moment! Time is relentless! I must see action soon!
Kodachi: I share your heart, dear brother. I can only with difficulty
bear the wait myself. Who knows what could happen in the mean time? Oh,
my Ranma-darling, I am coming to save you! Await my coming with joy, my
love.
Kuno: And woe to the soul that harms my beloved. [Raises his his bokken
high.] I SHALL SMITE THEE!!! [Eyes widen.] At last I shall be with them.
None shall stand in my way!
Kodachi: Sigh. My brother, we must work only to retrieve our loves, not
pursue our own personal vengeance. Work with me, dear brother, and we
shall save them.
Kuno: As you wish. I shall lay aside my issues of personal honor for the
sake of my twin loves.
[About now Chris, Nabiki, Ukyou, Ryouga, Genma, Soun, Kasumi, Tofu,
Shampoo, Mousse, Happosai, Cologne, Akane, and Ranma-chan come over a
nearby hill. Akane and Ranma-chan are in diguise, wearing their normal
clothes, but Akane's hair is dyed red, and Ranma-chan's is dyed black. As
we see them come over the hill, Chris and Nabiki wave a hello, and Tofu
trips and is picked up by Ranma-chan.]
Chris: Hello! Thanks for waiting.
Kuno: This journey is beyond our own petty issues of honor. Know that I
lay aside the battle between you and I because of the the more important
matter presented by the foul kidnapping of my loves. [He raises his bokken
aloft again, and lightning strikes in the background.] WE MUST BE OFF!
[Meanwhile, in a dark cave somewhere...]
Voice: Hmm, this is not what I expected. [We see a blurry image of
everyone getting in the boat. It seems to be a reflection off water or
something.] I think I will have to change the plan to include the presence
of the rest of them. [The image closes in on Ranma-chan.]
Voice: Ranma Saotome, prepare yourself.
[Scene Change: The boat is now out in deep water, and everyone is lined up
in pairs to work the oars. The seating order is as follows: Kasumi/Tofu
(Tofu is trying to row with the wrong end of his oar, much to Kasumi's
amusement), Happosai/Cologne (Neither of who is working an oar),
Shampoo/Mousse (Mousse happily works his oar, while Shampoo looks a little
angry), Kuno/Nabiki (Evidentally finishing some sort of business, as Kuno
is handing Nabiki a large sum of money), Chris/Kodachi (Chris is staring at
Kodachi with a silly look on his face, but is careful to look away whenever
she looks over his way), Ukyou/Ryouga (Both determinedly rowing, but we see
Ryouga give a quick look at Ukyou) , Genma/Soun (Barely rowing and playing
Go), and Ranma-chan/Akane (Neither of which is talking, in fact the tension
between them is making them row madly, providing most of the motive power).
As we watch Akane, she suddenly gets a surprised look on her face.]
Akane: Wow. Hey Ranma, look at that.
Ranma-chan: Huh? [We pan back to the front of the boat, where Kasumi is
laughing at Tofu's antics with the oar.]
Kasumi: You are so funny Dr. Tofu.
Tofu: Thank you Kasumi, I always thought I had a good sense of humor. My
goodness though, I have never seen a more badly-designed oar.
Kasumi: Here doctor, let me help you. [Kasumi reaches down to help Tofu,
but he fumbles the oar, and hits himself on the head, and his glasses are
knocked off. He also falls off his seat.] Oh my! Are you alright, let me
help you. [She helps him up, and puts his glasses on, running her hand on
the side of his face.]
Tofu: K-kasumi? [She jerks her hand back, and turns away, blushing. Tofu
just stares her direction, shocked. We pan back to Akane and Ranma-chan.]
Akane: I didn't know she really liked him.
Ranma-chan: Neither did I. That's great! He's been in love with her as
long as I've known him. Maybe this is his chance.
Akane: [Looking back towards the front of the boat.] Look Ranma!
Ranma-chan: What now?
[We pan forward to Happosai and Cologne. They are both smoking their
respective pipes. After a few puffs, Cologne turns over to Happosai.]
Cologne: So, when should we plan the wedding?
Happosai: Eh? What wedding?
Cologne: Ours of course.
Happosai: [very tiny voice.] what?
Cologne: I'd nearly forgotton, but this trip has given me a chance to
reflect. Humiliating as it was, when you slapped that bra on me, I was
defeated. By my tribal laws, we must marry.
Happosai: But you have a grandaughter!
Cologne: I am also a widow, and therefore free to marry. [Takes a puff
from her pipe, and then stares at Happposai.] I am not thrilled with the
idea of marrying a pervert like you Happy, but the law is the law.
Happosai: help.
[Happosai is leaning on the edge of the boat, cowed for the first time in
his life. We pan back to Akane and Ranma-chan.]
Akane: I almost feel sorry for him.
Ranma-chan: Not me. That's exactly what he deserves.
Akane: Ranma, that's a terrible thing to say...what? [Ranma-chan tugs on
Akane's sleeve.]
Ranma-chan: Look at that.
[Akane looks foreward, and we slide until Shampoo and Mousse are on the
screen. Mousse is singing happily to himself, while Shampoo looks
disgusted next to him.]
Shampoo: Why you sing silly song? Song get on Shampoo last nerve!
Mousse: I am sorry my dear. I won't sing anymore.
Shampoo: Not just song! Why you follow Shampoo wherever Shampoo go!
Mousse: To protect you, to guide you, and to serve you.
Shampoo: ...
Mousse: To defend yourself against those who would claim your beauty
against your will, to guide your joyous and playful steps, and make your
wishes come true.
Shampoo: Mousse...
Mousse: I am sorry Shampoo, I didn't mean to get so melodramatic. [Sighs
depreciatingly at himself.] I really don't think I even have a chance at
earning your love. [Looks Shampoo in the eyes.] How can I compete with
Ranma, a handsome, bold young warrior? [Looks down.] I'm just a silly
duck who can't give up on his dreams. [Looks back at Shampoo.] I am sorry
for all the trouble I have caused you. Just say the word, and I'll leave
your life forever.
Shampoo: Oh, Mousse... [takes his hand.] Shampoo no want you to leave.
[She realizes what she is doing, and drops his hand and blushes.]
Mousse: [To himself.] Sh-Shampoo?...
[As the two take up their oars again, we pan back to Akane and Ranma-chan.
They are both smiling.]
Akane: I think he's finally getting through to her.
Ranma-chan: Go for it Mousse.
Akane: Hey, look at Nabiki!
Ranma-chan: What is she up to now?
[Slide back to Kuno and Nabiki. Kuno is staring out into the ocean,
neglecting his oar. He is obviously lost in thought. Nabiki looks over,
stops working her oar, and waits a moment.]
Nabiki: Penny for your thoughts.
Kuno: Eh? What was that, woman?
Nabiki: What are you thinking about, Kuno baby?
Kuno: Of honor, and love. Of battle and glory. Hmph. Things a woman
like youself wouldn't understand.
Nabiki: Try me Kuno baby. Just try me.
Kuno: [Looks a little confused.] Well, there is this matter of the
gaijin...
[Pan back once more to Akane and Ranma-chan.]
Akane: I don't believe it.
Ranma-chan: What? What don't you believe?
Akane: I-I wouldn't swear to this, but...I think Nabiki likes Kuno.
Ranma-chan: Your kidding! [Looks over to Nabiki and Kuno. Kuno is
pontificating, as usual, and Nabiki just listens, and smiles. Ranma-chan
and Akane looks surprised.]
Akane: See what I mean?
Ranma-chan: They do spend a lot of time together. What is going on here?
Akane: I don't know Ranma. This is really strange.
Ranma-chan: Yeah...Oh no, look at that.
Akane: Uh oh.
[We slide back to the front of the boat, this time to Chris and Kodachi.
Chris is rowing hard, but occasionaly slows to look at Kodachi. Finally,
he screws up his courage to say something.]
Chris: Um, Kodachi.
Kodachi: Yes, what is it?
Chris: I was wondering. How did you fall in love with Ranma?
Kodachi: What a wonderful tale, one that must have had the guidance of the
gods! My Ranma- darling saved me from certain death, in circumstances so
fortitious that there can be no doubt to the fact that he and I are
destined for each other.
Chris: [We can see sadness in Chris's eyes.] What did he do?
Kodachi: He caught me deftly as I plummeted to a horrible death on the
ground below me. His arms wrapped around me and carried me to safety. Oh
Ranma, lover of my soul, be all right! There is no other love in my life.
Chris: No other love. That sounds like such an empty life.
Kodachi: It is the existance I was born to lead. [Chris sighs.] What
troubles your heart, Chris?
Chris: You are wrong. You do have more love in your life. You
have...[Chris raises his hand to point at himself, but turns it aside to
point at Kuno instead] your brother. He loves you, as you love him.
Kodachi: Brother dear? You're right. Sometimes he even reminds me of
father, before...
Chris: [very gentle voice] Before what, Kodachi.
Kodachi: [two tears trace their way down her cheeks] Before mother died.
[She bursts into silent tears and grabs Chris to cry on. He hugs her and
pats her back.]
Chris: Shh. It's okay. Kuno is still here, and your father has come
back.
Kodachi: [Raises her head. An expression we have never seen on her adorns
her face. She is in the grip of grief untainted by drama.] But, neither
of them has been the same, since. [She looks down at her leotard and
ribbon, and grimaces at herself.] I guess I haven't been either.
Chris: The real you is still inside, Kodachi. Just let down your
defenses. [Chris holds Kodachi for a few more moments before realizing
that the crying spell is over.]
Kodachi: [She shakes her hair out, and takes her oar back up.] I
apologize for that. I haven't been able to keep myself together since I
was seperated from my Ranma darling.
Chris: No problem. Anytime you need a shoulder to cry on, or an ear to
listen, I'll be here.
Kodachi:...
[We come back to a stunned Akane and Ranma-chan. Incidentally, they are
sitting much closer to each other then when we started.]
Akane: Wow.
Ranma-chan: You can say that again. I did't even realize she could
function like a normal human.
Akane: That must have been what Chris saw that caught his heart. A little
girl trapped by the memory of her mother's death.
Ranma-chan: Maybe that's the same sort of thing Nabiki sees in Kuno. But
why is this all coming out now?
Akane: I don't know. What's that!?
Ranma-chan: Huh, what?
[We follow Akane's point and find ourselves centered on Ryouga and Ukyou.
Both of them are rowing hard and look a little tired.]
Ryouga: Man, this is hard work. [Stops rowing to rub his hands.]
Ukyou: You're not kidding, sugar. [She stops as well and looks at her
hands] I think my blisters have blisters.
Ryouga: It wasn't this hard last time.
Ukyou: Last time?
Ryouga: When we all left to save Akane from the Seven Lucky Gods Martial
Artists.
Ukyou: Oh, I remember. Didn't the boat get tipped over last time?
Ryouga: Yes, but that was Happosai's fault. Cologne said she would keep
an eye on him this time. [They both rub their hands for the next few
moments, then Ryouga looks over at Ukyou and remembers
something...Flashback back to when Ryouga was trying to find his way off
the Tendo's roof . {Back in Episode 3}]
Chris: No, not that way. Listen, Ryouga. I want you to think about
something for me.
Ryouga: Well, I'm not going anywhere till you can tell me which way to go.
What is it?
Chris: Sometimes, what we seek so avidly is not the prize we fight so hard
to obtain, but the lovely blossom under our nose.
Ryouga: Huh?...[Back to Ryouga and Ukyou]
Ryouga: Uh, Ukyou, why are you here?
Ukyou: To help Ranma, you ninny. Why do you ask?
Ryouga: Well, I was wondering if you had given any thought to what
happened at the Caverns of Lost Love.
Ukyou: Caverns of Lost Love? You mean when we tried to break up Ranma and
Akane. I guess I'm glad it didn't work. I would have felt really bad
about it. [Nudges Ryouga in the ribs] Besides, we found out that we make
a good team, huh sugar.
Ryouga: We do, don't we. I guess I'm glad that it didn't work too. I
felt lower than Shampoo when she tries to trick Ranma into eating some of
her tainted food.
Ukyou: What made you think of that?
Ryouga: Something Chris said to me. "Sometimes, what we seek so avidly is
not the prize we fight so hard to obtain, but the lovely blossom under our
nose."
Ukyou: What does that mean?
Ryouga: I don't know completely, but I think it means I should start
looking around for that blossom under my nose. A-and since you and I go
along so well together, well I, uh, that is...
Ukyou: You, and me? [She looks shocked, but then thoughtful. She thinks
to herself:] Maybe he's right. I've been chasing Ranma for so long, I'm
blind to the chances around me for love. And even if I'm just chasing
shadows, it's not like Ranma-honey is getting married anytime soon...
Besides, Ryouga is kinda cute.
Ryouga: [Nervous after so long a pause from Ukyou] I-I'm sorry Ukyou. I
didn't mean to put you on the spot like that...
Ukyou: No, no. It's okay. [She takes his hands] I don't know if I can
give up loving Ranma, but I'm willing to try a relationship with you, if
you'll have me.
Ryouga: Ukyou? [Blink, blink] I don't know if I can play it straight
either, but I would like the chance...
[We slide back to Ranma-chan and Akane. Ranma-chan is quite confused, and
dips her hand in the water.]
Ranma-chan: What's going on here? Is it something in the water. Everyone
is acting so weird.
Akane: You're right. Look over there. Dad and Mr. Saotome have been
playing that game for hours, and neither of them have cheated once!
Ranma-chan: Are you okay Akane? You're not going weird on me are you?
Akane: No, I'm fine. But we both should be careful not to do
anything...odd.
Ranma-chan: [Both her and Akane take up their oars.] Something strange is
going on here...
[The image grows blurry and watery. We hear that same sinister voice in
the backgroud.]
Voice: So Ranma Saotome, you have noticed my spell of Destined Love. But
you won't notice the next until it is too late...
[End Episode 5]
[Epidode 6-The Minions of the Sorcerer]
[Scene: The Sub-dragon is on a river, with its occupants quiet and
reflecting. They row in silence until they ground out against the bottom
of the river. As it is too shallow to go on, they all pile out, and Kuno
and Ryouga drag to boat onto the shore. Everyone turns expectantly towards
Cologne.]
Cologne: I will need to go on ahead to scout out our trail. The rest of
you should make a camp, to spend the night. I will probably be back by
morning.
Kuno: I shall make the journey with you. My warrior's spirit cannot take
the inactivity of making a rude shelter. Needs I must be in action, taking
steps toward my twin loves. I shall hike with you!
Cologne: It seems I shall have unasked for company. [Looks over at
Shampoo] Well child, will you come with your poor grandmother.
Shampoo: Aiya! Shampoo be happy to go great-grandmother.
Mousse: Shampoo is going! I too shall come.
Cologne: Happy, would you like to come with me? [She slides right up next
to him] The trails around this part of China are very romantic.
Happosai: [Eyes get wide] Uh, I have to...[Looks around] stay and help
train Ranko and Akemi!!
Cologne: I think that can wait. Come with me future husband. [She clamps
onto one arm tightly]
[Everyone laughs at Happosai's obvious terror. Then the image blurs
slightly, like a reflection in a pool of water. We pull back until we can
see a shadowy form over the edge of the pool. The form looks
male-perhaps...]
Shadow: I need to test your skill Ranma. What shall I send...I know! The
Stone Spirits will do nicely. [The man pulls his hands back, and the pool
turns to an image of a boulder in a mountain side.] Awaken my slaves.
AWAKEN!!! [The boulder begins to shake and split.]
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART SIX: THE
MINIONS OF THE SORCERER, over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we
watch, the title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade
to black.]
[Next Scene: Kasumi is waving goodbye while Cologne, Kuno, Shampoo,
Mousse, and an unhappy Happosai leave to scout out the trail. Everyone
else is unpacking and setting up except Nabiki, Soun, and Genma. Soun and
Genma are playing Go, and leaving all the work to the kids, and Nabiki is
putting her pack on and following after the scouting party.]
Kasumi: Nabiki, where are you going?
Nabiki: [Turns to Kasumi and smiles] Let's just say I'm protecting an
interest of mine. Don't worry, with Cologne and Happosai there, I'll be
fine.
Kasumi: Have fun, and don't be gone too long!
Nabiki: Bye, sis.
[Ranma-chan and Akane are setting up their respective tents while they look
around at everyone. Kodachi walks up and addresses them.]
Kodachi: You two look familiar. Have we met before?
Akane and Ranma-chan: Uhh...[They look at each other nervously. Tofu
walks up to help.]
Tofu: Why of course you have...
Chris: [Appearing out of nowhere] ...at the beginning of our journey.
Its Ranko and Akemi, remember? [Smoothly turns to a flustered Tofu.] Dr.
Tofu, can I see you for a second?
Tofu: Huh, what? Sure. [Chris walks off with Tofu.]
Kodachi: [Watches Tofu and Chris walk away and then turns back.] It must
have been a more trying journey than I realized. So, are you students of
Mr. Tendo, like Chris?
Akane: Uh, yeah. This is my first training mission where I get to train.
Ranma-chan: Not mine. [He looks at his heavy pack] I can't say I miss it
much.
Kodachi: Training mission? Perhaps I could ask Mr. Tendo to train me as
well. My Martial Arts Rythmic Gymnastics career has been in a slump since
I was defeated by that brazen hussy who calls herself by the same name as
my darling Ranma.
Ranma-chan and Akane: ...
Kodachi: Besides, I seem to have a talent for that sort of thing. It
might be a good career choice. [Turns around and heads for Soun.] Oh Mr.
Tendo, sir...
Akane: It seems lately that Dad has been getting a new student every time
he turns around. I think I heard Chris talking to Ryouga and Ukyou about
getting training as well.
Ranma-chan: Yeah, he said something about that to me. He figured that if
they were going to hang around all the time, they might as well train with
us. That way they won't interrupt anything.
Akane: Next thing you know, Kuno will be training with us.
Ranma-chan: Ha. Kuno is a true believer in the power of the sword. He'll
never study anything else but Kendo. [Rolls her eyes] Thank goodness.
Akane: I know what you mean. I don't want to train with Kuno either.
[Scene Change: Chris is walking some distance from the camp to talk with
Tofu.]
Chris: Okay, this should be far enough.
Tofu: Why all the secrecy? Why can't we tell Kodachi who Ranma and Akane
really are?
Chris: Well, you know how fixiated Kodachi is on Ranma. She attacks the
female side, and tries to marry the male side. Since we needed their help
anyway, we thought it would be easier on all involved if we just disguised
Ranma. We disgused Akane because Kuno reacts to her and Ranma in much the
same way.
Tofu: Oh. What are you going to tell them when we get the ring off Ranma?
Chris: Kodachi won't ask any questions once her Ranma darling is safe, and
Kuno will assume that Ranma is up to his 'sorcerer tricks' as usual.
Tofu: Well, I don't like keeping a secret, but in the interest of peace,
I'll go along.
Chris: Thanks. [Looks back and forth.] You know, now that we are out
here, I've been meaning to ask you about Kasumi...
Tofu: K-kasumi?
Chris: Yeah, I...
Akane: [Screaming] AAAAHHHH!!!! ITS A MONSTER!
Chris and Tofu: Akane!
[Scene Change: Cologne, Happosai, Shampoo, Mousse, Kuno and Nabiki are
making their way through the forest. Happosai seems very subdued and
quiet, while Mousse and Shampoo are actually holding a conversation.]
Mousse: Hey Shampoo, do you remember the time that Washcloth got lost in
the forest?
Shampoo: [Giggles a bit] Shampoo remember! Whole village go out to
search, and when we find Washcloth, we find her kissing that Toothpaste
boy! [Mousse and Shampoo share a laugh.]
Mousse: Sigh. I do miss home.
Shampoo: Shampoo miss home too. Been Japan long time.
Mousse: Hey, Cologne! Do you think we could stop by our village on the
way home?
Cologne: I think that is a good idea. But for now, however, we must
concentrate on finding the lab of the Master. [Both Shampoo and Mousse
nod. We slide back to Kuno and Nabiki.]
Kuno: Why are you here, Nabiki Tendo? You are no warrior. What purpose
could you serve on this quest?
Nabiki: Well then, as I am so far out of my element, its good I have a
mighty samurai here to defend me.
Kuno: Hah! [Closes his eyes to pontificate] Do not rest secure in that
fact. Indeed, I would not lift a finger if you were attacked. My heart is
for Akane and the pig-tailed girl, not you!
Nabiki: AAAAAHHHHH!!!!! [Kuno opens his eyes to see Nabiki in the grip of
a solid stone beast. The beast is roughly humaniod, with rounded
features.]
Kuno: UNHAND THE FAIR MAIDEN, YOU VILE DEMON!!!! [With one broad sweep,
Kuno slices off the hand gripping Nabiki. She falls toward the ground, and
is caught by Kuno's free hand.]
Nabiki: Opff!! [Nabiki is twirled into Kuno's free arm.] Kuno?
Kuno: Stand back stony fiend. [The beast grunts and raises its other arm
to attack. It comes down impossibly fast.]
Nabiki: Kuno, look out! [Kuno tries to block with his bokken, but it
snaps and he takes a tremendous hit to the chest. Kuno goes down, and
Nabiki kneels over him.] Somebody please, help us! [The arm hangs
menacingly for a moment, and starts to come down again. Then...a small
pipe reaches out and stops it.]
Happosai: Trying to hit a pretty young thing like that, you should be
ashamed!
Cologne: Indeed. [Cologne touches one finger to the beast and there is a
sudden explosion. When the dust clears, everyone is gathered around Kuno,
who is starting to cough blood.] We should return to camp and get this one
to the doctor.
Nabiki: Is it really that bad?
Cologne: I am afraid so, child. I cannot help him.
Happosai: He's beyond my medical skills.
Shampoo: Where big stone thing come from, great-grandmother?
Cologne: It is a demon. They are often used by sorcerers when they want
someone killed. We should make haste back to the camp. The young fool
here needs help, and I fear a second attack.
[Scene Change: Back at camp, Akane is being lifted into the air by on of
the Stone Demons. Ranma-chan is on the ground, staring in horror at the
beast.]
Akane: HELP ME! [Akane kicks and squirms for a bit, then looks down a
Ranma-chan.] Don't just sit there! Save me you moron!
Ranma-chan: Huh? [Shakes her head] Put her down, granite breath!
[Ranma-chan leaps into the air with a kick. The Stone Demon drops Akane
and slides back about 10 feet. Then it gets back up.]
Akane: What is that thing? [She points to the Stone Demon.]
Ranma-chan: I don't know, but its not alone! [Ranma-chan points over to
the left, and we see two more of the beasts striding over from the remains
of the tents.]
Akane: Where did everyone go? [She looks around, but no one but the Stone
Demons are there. We change views to Ryouga and Ukyou. They are in the
forest, and in serious combat with the Stone Demon.]
Ukyou: [Swings with her spatula, but it only bounces off.] Ooff! What is
this thing?!
Ryouga: I don't know, but I'm about to send it to heaven!
BAKUSAI-TEN-KETSU! [Ryouga pokes his index finger to the beast, and it
explodes with terrific force. Ukyou and Ryouga are caught in the blast,
and Ukyou is knocked to the ground.]
Ukyou: Aaah! [Shakes her head] What was that thing?
Ryouga: I don't know, but its not going to hurt anyone else. [We see a
shot of the gravel at his feet.]
Akane, off in the distance: Help me!
Ryouga: AKANE!! [Ryouga takes off running. Ukyou just shakes her head and
runs off after him. Now we slide back over to Kodachi, as she talks to
Soun. Genma is standing in the background, looking confused and somewhat
apprehensive.]
Kodachi: ...and I'm sure that my father could arrange some sort of
compensation for your teachings.
Soun: What sort of compensation?
Kodachi: Well, as you know, my family is quite rich...[Soun and Genma look
at each other in shock.]
Soun: A paying student? That's never happened before!
Genma: Indeed. [Slides in close to Soun. Whispers-] and since she likes
my boy, you can charge anything you like.
Soun: [with a goofy grin on his face] That's right. For once in my life,
I will be financially secure!
Genma: That's right. And I'll only take a 40% cut.
Soun: A 40% cut! Why?
Genma: Well, she will be going because of my boy after all...
Soun: Well then, I guess we can clear up all that mess about back rent.
[Genma stops cold. A tear of nervousness forms.]
Genma: [after a beat or two] ...like I said, you can keep all that money
for yourself
Kodachi: Excuse me, but the way you two are talking is starting to worry
me. May I train with my Ranma darling, whom I love like no other?
Soun: Oh. Yes. I accept you as a student.
Kodachi: Oh joy of the ages! Now my Ranma and I can spend even more time
together. My heart overfills--AH HA HA HA HA HA! AH HA HA HA HA--[Kodachi
stops suddenly.] Did you hear that?
Soun and Genma: No.
Akane: [Off in the distance] Help me! [Soun, Genma, and Kodachi look at
each other and then start running towards the voice.
[Back to Akane and Ranma-chan. Akane is in Ranma-chan's arms, and
Ranma-chan is desperately dodging attack after attack. Suddenly, she trips
and falls and both Akane and Ranma- chan hug against each other as the
massive fist of one of the Stone Spirits falls. Then there is a loud
<snap!> as a ribbon wraps itself around the descending fist.]
Kodachi: [We see the ribbon extend from the spirit to her hand.] My, my,
it seems that strength is no substitute for skill. [The Stone Spirit seems
to shrug. Then he jerks his hand back and pulls the ribbon from Kodachi's
hands.] NO!
Akane: [Wriggling out of Ranma-chan's hands] Put me down! I can take
care of myself.
Ranma-chan: Fine! See if I ever try to help you again, tomboy!
Akane: WHAT DID YOU CALL ME!?!?! [Both Ranma-chan and Akane turn towards
each other, ready for a fight. They completely ignore the two Stone
Spirits that approach them from the rear and prepare to attack.]
Ranma-chan and Akane: [Finally noticing the Spirits] AAAAHHHH!!!! [As
both Spirits attack, Ranma-chan and Akane are pulled out of the way.]
Chris: Perhaps this is not the best place for an argument. [Both
Ranma-chan and Akane nod at him.] Now go, and try not to get yourselves
killed. [As they run back into the fight...]
Ranma-chan, to herself: I wonder where Ryouga is. We could use that
breaking point technique right about now...[Scene Shift]
[Scene: Ryouga and Ukyou are standing in front of a large cave. The cave
has an unusual pattern of glowing moss inside, lighting nicely. Both of
them are looking rather confused.]
Ryouga: How did we get here? Where did Akane go?
Ukyou: I don't know where we are. Silly as it sounds, I was following
you, sugar.
Ryouga: Well, she has to be around here someplace...Wait, did you hear
that!
Ukyou: Hear what?
Akane's Voice, faintly: Ryouga, help me.
Ryouga: THAT!! Akane, I'm coming!![Ryouga runs off into the cave. Ukyou
waits a moment, then runs in after him.]
Ukyou: Ryouga, you pig-headed fool, what did you hear?! [The scene gets
watery and blurry, and we are back in the mysterious sorcerer's lair.]
Hey, you jackass, come back here!
Shadow: There. With that fool boy out of the way, my minions have a
chance. [Shadowy hands pass over pool of water] I wonder what became of
the one I sent after the old woman's group. [The pool forms the image of
gravel on the side of the mountain] Hmm, it seems I underestimated that
one. I will have to do something about that...
[Back to the fight. Both Ranma-chan and Akane are facing a Stone Spirit.
The spirit attacks in a rush, but Ranma-chan jumps at the Stone Spirit,
grabs the descending arm, and pulls it over towards the back of the
spirit.]
Ranma-chan: Now Akane! Use that brute strength!! [The Stone Spirit
strains against Ranma- chan] I can't hold it much longer!
Akane: HI-YAAAA!!!! [Akane jumps in and kicks the spirit hard in the
side. With a resounding -<CRASH/CRUNCH>- a large part of the Stone
Spirit's torso crumbles away. The arm Ranma- chan was holding falls away,
and Ranma-chan starts to fall. On the way down she kicks the spirit in the
back the head, which comes off. Ranma-chan flips to the ground, and the
mass of stone comes completely apart and lands a pile of gravel.]
Ranma-chan and Akane: Alright!!! [They both high-five each other. Then
they turn to look for other targets.]
[Next Scene: Kodachi is facing a Stone Spirit alone. She tries throwing
several clubs at it, and then a ball. The spirit simply looks at where
they fall, and begins to walk toward her. She doesn't run away, but simply
stands her ground, waiting. As the spirit prepares to strike...]
Kodachi: Any time you are ready, my ally. [The arm to the spirit raises
and descends towards its target, but is intercepted by a broom handle from
behind.]
Chris: Sorry to keep you waiting. [With a twist, Chris pulls on the
spirit's arm, yanking it off balance. Lodging his broom in the armpit of
the Stone Spirit, Chris lifts it up into the air above his head. Chris
gasps a bit] My--this--is--hea--vy.
Kodachi: My, what a strong ally you are. [Chris just smiles, and suddenly
jumps into the air, taking the beast with him. Flipping over in a complete
circle, Chris comes around and flips the spirit to land on it hard. The
Stone Spirit explodes in a mass of dust. When it clears, we see Kodachi
and Chris heading for the next fight.]
[Next Scene: Kasumi is standing behind Soun, Genma, and Tofu. Soun and
Genma are dodging attacks, and Tofu is avoiding taking hits by blind luck
as he is in the 'Ecstatic over presence of Kasumi mode.']
Kasumi: Dr. Tofu, I don't think this a good time to be joking around!
[Tofu dodges a strike by the Demon by turning towards Kasumi at the last
second.]
Tofu: Well, I think a know a good joke, Kasumi. [Tofu takes a step closer
to Kasumi, narrowly avoiding a stone fist that crashes into the ground.]
Have you heard the one about the squirrel, the Rabbi, and the rubber glove?
[The Stone Spirit begins to look somewhat frustrated. Looking about, it
roars and heads for Kasumi. Both Soun and Genma are too far away to stop
it.]
Soun and Genma: NOOO!!! [The spirit makes a grab for Kasumi. It is
interrupted by a blue- glowing Tofu, blocking each grabbing hand with one
of his own.]
Tofu: NO! YOU WILL NOT HARM HER!!!! [Tofu throws the grabbing hands
apart and attacks the Stone Spirit. The camera switches to a view of
Kasumi, and she flinches as we hear numerous crashes and slams. When we go
back to the fight, we see a somewhat stunned Tofu standing over the remains
of the spirit. Tofu looks up, eyes clear, as he stares into Kasumi's
face.] Kasumi. Are you all right?
Kasumi: Dr. Tofu! [Kasumi runs at Tofu, and he picks her up. They kiss
passionately, and the camera pans back to catch the arrival of Ranma-chan,
Akane, Chris, and Kodachi. Everyone looks surprisedly at each other.]
Ranma-chan: Looks like the doc is cured.
Chris: Looks like. [Chris glances over at Kodachi, who is watching Tofu
and Kasumi curiously. Chris smiles and looks back at the happy couple.]
Soun: Kasumi and Dr. Tofu. What a perfect match!
Genma: It looks like you only have one more daughter to find a husband
for.
Soun: Nabiki? [Looks thoughful] Hmm...
[The gang stands around for a few more moments, when from behind, we hear a
familiar voice.]
Cologne: You all did very well. [Everyone jumps and turns around, except
Kasumi and Tofu. Cologne is standing there with Happousai and Shampoo,
with Mousse and Nabiki carrying Kuno on a makeshift stretcher.]
Chris: Hey, don't do that! I nearly had a heart attack!
Kodachi: Brother dear! [Kodachi runs up to Kuno, who moans and shifts
slightly.] What happened to him?
Shampoo: Silly sword boy hit by big stone demon. Boy need doctor.
[Everyone turns to look at Tofu and Kasumi, who ignore them.]
Ranma-chan: HEY DOC!!! [Tofu jerks back suddenly and Kasumi blushes.]
Tofu: What is it Ranm- [quick glance at Kodachi] I mean, Ranko?
Nabiki: Kuno was struck in the chest by one of the stone demons. [Walks
up to Tofu with a pleading expression on her face.] Can you help him?
Tofu: I don't know, I'll have to examine him. [Looks back at Kasumi]
Will you help me?
Kasumi: [blushes a little more] Of course, Doctor.
[Tofu and Kasumi walk over to Kuno and begin to look at him.]
Nabiki: I hope he'll be okay.
Chris: I sure the good doctor will be able to take care of him. [Chris
looks over at Ranma-chan and her ring] Do you think we should go on with
this trip?
Nabiki: I don't know, and I don't care. I'm staying right here.
Ranma-chan: Hey Chris, you seem do be doing pretty good for just coming
out of a fight. [She points to him and winks.] Didn't even break a sweat,
huh?
Chris: [Smiles humbly] Well, they weren't that good a dodging, so I
didn't need to go that fast.
Akane: Has anyone seen Ryouga? [Everyone glances around]
Chris: You know, I haven't seen Ukyou lately either. [Akane and
Ranma-chan smile and look at each other.]
Ranma-chan: Maybe they're off spending some romantic time together!
[Next Scene: Ryouga and Ukyou are in a large metal cage hanging over a
bottomless pit. They are still inside the caves.]
Ukyou: Oh, why did I ever follow you! You have the worst sense of
direction!
[End Episode 6]
[Episode 7: The Caves of the Master]
[Scene: We see everyone departing the campsite, leaving Kuno, Nabiki,
Tofu, and Kasumi behind. Kasumi waves happily as the gang walks away, but
Nabiki and Tofu are looking carefully at Kuno, who is lying down on the
ground. The group continues on for several miles in the forest, until they
come across some caves. These caves also have glowing moss clinging to the
walls.]
Cologne: These are the Caves of the Master. I want all of you to stay
close, as there are many different caverns inside.
Ranma-chan: What if we get lost? What do we do then?
Happosai: Most of these caves are empty. Once you find the sections with
furniture and items in them, you'll know that you're close.
Akane: I'm starting to get a little worried. Has anyone seen Ryouga or
Ukyou?
Genma: Not me. Soun: Nope.
Chris: I don't think we really have to wait. If they go back to camp,
Nabiki should be able to tell Ukyou how to get here. At least Ryouga isn't
off wandering by himself. [The scene blurs back into the pool of water.
This time, standing next to the cloaked figure is crowd of shadowed forms.]
Shadow: Now that they are entering the caves, they have intruded on my own
terrain. [The Shadow turns to his minions, a smile visible under his cowl]
Now, to your places. Bring the young warriors to me after you capture
them. [The shadowy forms bow and vanish into the caves. After they leave,
the Shadow turns back to his scrying pool and traces a circle around
Akane's reflection with his finger.] Soon, I shall have my deepest desire.
[The Shadow turns suddenly and splashes Ranma-chan's reflection.] AND
EVEN YOU SHALL NOT STOP ME!
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART SEVEN: THE
CAVES OF THE MASTER, over a picture of a beautiful black rose. As we
watch, the title fades and the rose changes into a rich blue. Then we fade
to black.]
[Scene: Our heroes start to make their way down the caves. Everyone seems
unusually apprehensive, saying little. Chris is walking protectively
behind Kodachi, and Mousse is leading and checking the way for an
uncharacteristically tolerant Shampoo. Genma and Soun seem very nervous,
and are actually shaking in fear. Ranma-chan and Akane are walking
closely, and without realizing it, they join hands. Only Happosai and
Cologne seem to be at ease, although Happosai is obviously still a little
shaken about his new fiancee.]
Mousse: [In the front] Hmm. There seems to be a fork in the caves.
Which way should we go? [Everyone turns to Cologne.]
Colonge: I do not know. The legends about this place say that it is
alive, and changes its shape all the time. [The camera closes in on Chris
while Cologne continues. Chris's eyes widen as he realizes something. He
closes his eyes and begins to concentrate] We will have to simply choose
and hope for the best.
Ranma-chan: [Noticing Chris standing there with his eyes closed] Hey,
buddy what ya doing there? [Everyone one turns and Chris suddenly opens
his eyes. He blushes slightly when he sees everyone staring at him.]
Chris: Uh, sorry. I just thought that I heard something.
Shampoo: Oh. Now which way we go?
Akane: I don't know. Maybe that way [Points to the left-hand cave.]
Genma: It's as good as any, I guess.
Soun: Yes, thank you Akane. [The gang begins to move down the tunnel when
Chris shouts.]
Chris: NO!! Not that way! [Chris runs up front and blocks the way with
his arms.] We can't go that way.
Cologne: Why not young janitor? What do you see at the end of the tunnel
that we do not?
Chris: I don't know. But I do know that if we go that way, we'll all die.
[The entire gang gasps.]
Ranma-chan: You don't mean like, death do you?
Chris: Yes. I don't know how, but I know that nothing lies down that
corridor but our own ends. Please, let's take the other one.
Cologne: Perhaps he is correct.
Happosai: Absolutely! That's what I'm gonna do!
Soun: I see. When you see no other way, trust your heart.
Genma: The path of a true martial artist. [Chris blushes a little as he
hears himself referred to as a true martial artist. The gang gathers up
and goes down the right-hand corridor. As they begin to file down, the
image blurs into the water of the scrying pool.]
Shadow: Who is that man!? He's ruined my finest deathtrap, the Hidden
Dragon Machine! [Their image closes on Chris's reflection, showing him
blushing even harder as Kodachi stares at him in wonder.] It seems I have
a second one to worry about, besides that accursed RANMA! [The Shadow
waves a hand over the pool, and it goes dark. Then a purple light begins
to shine in it.] They shall not survive me! [Voice amplified] ALL MY
MINIONS. GET INTO YOUR ATTACK POSITIONS, AND AWAIT THE CAVERN SHIFT.
[Voice goes back to normal, and the purple light in the pool stops. Shadow
turns to a small stone statue that is set on a pedestal. The statue is of
a young girl in traditional Chinese clothing, and it is currently showing
tears running down it's face. A smile curves Shadows face as he picks it
up.] You shall serve me, Narinkito, or I will destroy you. [Shadow picks
up the doll in a slender hand. He raises the doll above his head.] NOW!!
[The doll bursts into a gleaming white light.]
[Cut back to the gang: Everyone is in the middle of a large open area,
when suddenly the floor rocks and cracks open. People go flying, landing
all over the floor. Gleaming white light streams through the cracks in the
floor briefly, and then the shaking gets even worse. Ranma-chan grabs
Akane, while over to the left Mousse runs at Shampoo and pushes her out of
the way of a falling rock. Both Mousse and Shampoo continue to move
foreward until they fall into a crevice.]
Cologne: SHAMPOO!!! [A few more dull thuds sound. The shaking gets even
more intense. Kodachi falls off the side, and Chris, seeing this jumps on
his stomach next to the crevice and reaches down with his broom. Kodachi
neatly snags the end handle with her ribbon and hangs there for a moment,
smiling at Chris.]
Chris: I thought I'd lost you. Don't do that again. [Kodachi looks up
into Chris's eyes, amazed. Then a loud <CRACK> is heard as the ledge Chris
is lying on falls away. Both Chris and Kodachi fall into the depths.]
Ranma-chan and Akane: NO! [In the background we see Soun and Genma fall,
as well as Cologne and Happosai. Akane grabs onto Ranma-chan, sobbing.
Ranma-chan starts looking around wildly, tears streaking down her face.
She sees a protected alcove alongside one wall, picks up Akane, and starts
to make her way there. She almost makes it, but right before she can jump
to it, the floor falls away.]
Ranma-chan, softly: [We see a close up of them falling.] I'm sorry,
Akane...[The screen fades to black and the rumbling fades to silence.]
[The Scene: Ryouga and Ukyou are in the cage, as it rocks back and forth
gently. Ryouga is holding onto the bars rather firmly, and Ukyou has her
arms around him and her head down. After a few moments the rocking
subsides completely. Ukyou looks up.]
Ukyou: That...that was incredible. Ryouga, are you okay?[Ryouga doesn't
respond.] Ryouga?
[We look up at Ryouga. He's still shivering and taut, and his grip is
smashing the bars. A thin line of blood is starting to flow from his
nose.]
Ryouga: L-l-l-let go. Please.
Ukyou: Hmm? [We pull back as Ukyou realizes that her chest is plastered
all over Ryouga. With a quick jerk she pulls herself back. Ryouga takes a
deep breath and relaxes.]
Ryouga: Thanks. [He looks in concentration at the bars.] I can break the
outer part, but there seems to be something very strong on the inside. I
can't bend it.
Ukyou: What about the breaking point? That can shatter anything, right?
Ryouga: It probably could, but it sends fragments everywhere. I could
probably take it, but that's only because I trained for it. It might kill
you.
Ukyou: Um...what if I stand behind you?
Ryouga: Hey, that might just work! Let's try it. [Ukyou and Ryouga stand
up, and Ukyou hugs Ryouga from behind. Ryouga stares at the bars. He
keeps staring at the bars.]
Ukyou: Something wrong?
Ryouga, nervously: He he, wrong, nothing's wrong! I'm just trying to
concentrate...[a quick shot of Ukyou's breast pressing against Ryouga's
back.] I think that this might do it...[He jabs at a bar, but nothing
happens.]
Ukyou: Effective. You do realize that each minute we sit here helpless
Akane could be in danger. Or even worse.
Ryouga: AKANE!!! BAKUSAI-TEN-KETSU! [The front if the cage explodes with
teriffic force. Ryouga grabs both a remaining bar and Ukyou as they fall.
Then he swings over to the side of the pit. Both of them sit there panting
for a moment. Then Ryouga stands up and offers his hand to Ukyou.] Thanks
for the...inspiration. We should be going.
Ukyou, smiling: Anytime honey. [They start to walk down the nearest
cavern. Next Scene: Ranma and Akane are lying on the ground, unconcious.
There is an inch or two of water in the cave, and it is slightly sparkling.
Their hair has returned to normal, and as we watch, Ranma stirs and sits
up.]
Ranma: Oh, wow. [Ranma checks his head for bump but finds none. His eyes
widen suddenly.] Oh my gosh, Akane! [He looks around frantically, and
spots her. Splashing water all about, he makes his way over. After a
moment of studying her...] Sigh! She looks fine. She should be up in a
moment or two.
Akane: Mmm...is that you Kasumi? I need some extra sleep...[Ranma hovers
over her concernedly, when he suddenly notices something in the water. It
gleams like gold...]
Ranma: What's this? [He leans over and picks it up. It's Shampoo's
ring.] Oh my...[He checks himself and finds that he is indeed male.] I'm
a man, and I'm in cold water. [He jumps up suddenly and thrusts both of
his fists in the air.] YES!!! [Ranma begins to dance around the cave,
singing to himself.] Never gonna be a girl again! Never gonna be a girl
again!
Akane: [Sits up.] Ranma, keep it down!
Ranma: Akane! Look! I'm standing in cold water, and I'M A GUY!! [Akane
looks at Ranma in astonishment. Ranma holds up Shampoo's ring.] The ring
must have taken out the curse. It popped off in the ride down, and now I'm
a guy forever. [Ranma smiles at her.] Are you okay?
Akane: Me? I-i'm fine, I guess. [Her eyes suddenly get wide.] Ranma!
What about everyone else?
Ranma: I forgot! They all fell too! [Thinks for a moment.] Well, if
we're all right, they probably are too.
Akane: But, what if Dad, Mr. Saotome, and everyone's...
Ranma: Akane, don't say it! We'll just go around the cave and find
everyone. I mean, we're not even bruised. [Ranma squats down and looks
Akane in the eyes.] I'm sure that they're fine.
Akane: Positive?
Ranma: Positive. After all, if Pop and Mr. Tendo can survive training
with Happosai, a little fall wouldn't even faze them.
Akane: [Giggles] You're right. Nothing could be worse than that little
pervert. [Akane holds out her hand, and Ranma takes it to pull her up.]
Let's go. [Surprisingly, Akane keeps holding Ranma's hand. A mysterious
smile lights up her face, as a bemused Ranma follows her.]
[Ranma and Akane leave the cave hand in hand. Next Scene: Kodachi is
falling through a black space. She falls for a time, and then hears a
gentle woman's voice.]
Gentle Voice: Kodachi.
Kodachi: Who said that?
Gentle Voice: Kodachi.
Kodachi: Who's there?
Gentle Voice: Kodachi. It is I, your mother.
Kodachi: My...mother?
Kodachi's Mother: [An apparition appears, of a beautiful woman, who bears
some resemblance to Kodachi. She is wearing a loving expression, and her
arms are outstretched toward Kodachi.] I am the memory you still have of
your lost mother. Please don't destroy me.
Kodachi: I would never do that! I miss you. Please don't leave me!
Kodachi's Mother: My little rose, then why do you try to remove me
forever?
Kodachi: I don't know what you're talking about. I love you Mama, and I
would never try to destroy you. [We suddenly hear a new voice.]
New Voice: Weak fool. You spend too much time with that sappy janitor.
[Kodachi turns slightly to see a darker version of herself. Her darker
self is idly twirling a black ribbon, and has a sarcastic sneer on her
face.]
Kodachi: Who or what are you?
Black Kodachi: Who do you think I am? I am the person you have been since
your mother left you. I am that which helps you forget her and all the
other pain in your life. I am the Black Rose.
Kodachi: You're... a part of me?
Black Kodachi: That's it. I just try to help out by removing the pain.
See? [Black Kodachi suddenly whips Kodachi's Mother. Kodachi's Mother
cries out in pain, and fades from view.]
Kodachi: NOO!!! [She tries to make her way toward Black Kodachi, who just
smiles evilly.]
Black Kodachi: [Shakes her head in pity.] Such ingratitude. [Looks the
futilely struggling Kodachi in the eyes.] You can never beat me. You have
given me too much power. [The spinning ribbon begins to glow with an
unholy light. Then it slices over towards Kodachi.]
Kodachi: AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! [The screen goes white. Suddenly,
Kodachi is screaming back in the caves. Chris rushes over to where she is
lying down, and finds himself holding a crying and trembling girl.]
Chris: [Closes his eyes and holds her tightly for a few moments. Kodachi
looks very small next to Chris's bulky frame. The sobs slow down after a
bit, and Kodachi begins to breathe normally for a minute. Chris pulls back
to look at her eyes.] Are you all right?
Kodachi: [Tears are still coming down her face.] I saw my mother.
Th-then the Black Rose sent her a-a-way. [Sobs break out anew.]
Chris, thinking: Black Rose? [Holds her tight again and begins to rub her
back. Out loud.] Shhh. It just a dream. You took a nasty fall back
there. I was worried you'd been really hurt.
Kodachi: [Pushes herself back far enough to see Chris's face. Tears still
stream down her face, but she smiles when she sees his eyes. She pokes a
finger at a few tears that have made their way down Chris's face. Chris
begins to blush.] Are these for me?
Chris: [Blushing even harder.] I..I [He smiles back at her.] I guess
they're sympathy tears. I know what it's like to lose your mother at an
early age.
Kodachi: Did you lose your mother when you were a child too.
Chris: [Nods] My father as well. [Looks away at the walls.] A freak
mislabled cleaning products accident. I was raised by my Uncle Tazuki.
Kodachi: I'm sorry. [She lays her head against Chris's chest.] Carry me.
Tell me about living with your Uncle Tazuki.
Chris: [Smiles down at her.] Grab my broom and your ribbon then.
[Kodachi picks both of them up from where they lay close by and snuggles
back up against Chris's chest. Chris puts them in the back of his belt,
and then picks her up and begins to stride down the corridor.] Where
should I start?
Kodachi: [Sounding somewhat sleepy.] Does anyone I know know him?
Chris: Actually, he trained for a while with Mr. Tendo and Mr. Saotome.
>From what I understand, they were all fast friends. You should hear the
story about how they...[stops when Chris notices that Kodachi is asleep in
his arms. Chris smiles down at her trusting form and continues down the
corrider with his own silent thoughts.]
[Next Scene: Moose is leaning over Shampoo, who is lying on the ground
unconscious. He seems to be rather banged up himself, with torn clothes
and a bruised face to show for his own fall. Still, his attention is
entirely focused on Shampoo. After a few moments of silence, Shampoo stirs
and opens her eyes.]
Shampoo: [In a tired, dreamy voice.] Hello Mousse.
Mousse: Hello my dear Shampoo. [A smile breaks over his face like the
rising sun. Mousse thinks to himself:] She's really going to be okay!
Shampoo: Mousse, why Shampoo lying on hard, cold ground?
Mousse: We had a bad fall when the cave started to collapse. I only just
woke up a few moments ago myself.
Shampoo: [Sits upright suddenly. She seems to have no lingering injuries
from the fall.] Greatgrandmother! She fall too?
Mousse: I don't know. I remember her calling out while we fell, but after
that I don't know. [Mousse smiles reassuringly at Shampoo.] I'm sure
she's all right. She is the most skilled martial artist in our village,
remember?
Shampoo: That true.
Mousse: I have a suspicion that it would take more than a fall in a dark
cave to finish the great Cologne.
Shampoo: Mousse probably right. Shampoo still want look for
Greatgrandmother. [Looks around.] Does Mousse know where we?
Mousse: [Shakes his head.] As Cologne said, the caverns shift and change.
I don't think anyone could find their way through this place perfectly.
[Mousse grunts and holds his side while he stands up.] We should get
going.
Shampoo: [Mousse stretches out his hand and helps her up, eliciting a
second grunt from Mousse.] Is Mousse alright?
Mousse: I'm fine. We need to get going. [Mousse takes a few determined
steps, but suddenly cries out and falls to his knees.]
Shampoo: Mousse! [Runs up next to him and opens up the front of his robe.
Underneath, we see blood seeping through a garish wound on his chest.
Shampoo stares in shock.]
Mousse: [Mousse makes a futile attempt to cover himself.] It isn't as bad
as it looks. We really need to get going.
Shampoo: [Pushes away Mousse's hands.] Silly duck! Mousse should tell
Shampoo when hurt, especially when this bad. [She rips Mousse's robe and
makes a makeshift bandage. As she wraps him up, Mousse seems to get weaker
and weaker.]
Mousse: I'm sorry Shampoo. [He looks away.] I'm only a hindrance to you
in your time of need.
Shampoo: Shampoo think that foolish boy should be quiet and rest. [Mousse
looks back.] Mousse may sometime annoy Shampoo, but Shampoo no want see
Mousse dead.
Mousse: But you want Ranma. Sigh. Without you I might as well be dead.
Shampoo: Silly boy! [She pokes him, gently, in the cheek.] Shampoo may
not want be you bride, but she still want be you friend.
Mousse: My friend?
Shampoo: Shampoo know Mousse love her. [Now she looks away.] Shampoo
just can't love Mousse back.
Mousse: [Tears are making a path down Mousse's face.] I'm so sorry. [He
closes his eyes.] I won't stand in the way of you and anyone else ever
again. [Mousse catches her gaze and looks her deep in the eyes.] I will
be your best friend, a help in every way. I'll even help you snare Ranma
Saotome to be your husband, if that's what you really want.
Shampoo: Oh Mousse. Shampoo very happy to hear you say that, but...
Mousse: But what?
Shampoo: [Leans next to him and smiles.] Shampoo no ask Mousse to make
promises that he cannot keep. [Pokes him again.] Shampoo just ask Mousse
be friend, okay?
Mousse: Okay. [Smiles weakly.]
Shampoo: Now, let go get Mousse help. [She picks up Mousse handily, and
begins to walk down the caverns.]
[Next Scene: Happosai and Cologne are making their way through the caves
in good time, Cologne bounding her way on her staff, while Happosai just
bounces around like usual. As they travel on, they find themselves
interrupted by several men in purple and gold uniforms. They are armed
with assorted martial arts hardware, and seem very malevolent.]
Happosai: Out of my way, you young whippersnappers!
Cologne: Indeed. Run away now young children.
[The guards look at each other and laugh. Cologne and Happosai look at
each other and sigh.]
Happosai: The foolishness of youth.
Cologne: It seems we will be the source of a major life lesson for these
young fellows--[Cologne and Happosai suddenly look menacingly at the
guards.]--Respect for their elders.
[The scene then shifts to a few moments later, when the last guard in
thrown on top of his beaten comrades. The screen scrolls over to Happosai
and Cologne, who are smoking pipes and shaking their heads.]
Cologne: Foolish and now defeated.
Happosai: I've had 10 year olds put up better fights than that! [Jerks
his head toward the rest of the caves.] Shall we continue.
Cologne: Of course, dear husband.
Happosai: [A tear of nervousness forms on his forehead.] I really wish
you'd quit calling me that.
[The scene shifts to Cologne and Happosai a few caves down. They come
across a lone man blocking the way on.]
Cologne: I recommend that you remove yourself from our presence, lest you
wish the fate of your comrades in arms.
Happosai: In other words: MOVE OR LOSE IT, CHUMP!!! [The man looks up,
and we see purple glowing eyes.]
Shadow: I think that you would find me a more difficult opponent. [The
screen flares into purple, and then we see Cologne and Happosai out cold on
the floor.] I, as you now know, have slightly greater resources at my
disposal.
[Scene: Ranma is following Akane when he stops suddenly. Akane looks back
confusedly.]
Akane: What's wrong?
Ranma: Shhh! [He gets close to Akane.] I don't know what it is, but
something is following us. [Fade to black.]
[End Episode 7]
[Episode 8: Rumble Under the Surface! Chris confronts the Master.]
[Scene: We are back outside of the caves, a raging thunderstorm overhead.
We pan over to a small, bedraggled tent. As we move closer, we hear the
sounds of struggle inside.]
Kuno: I cannot stay here!
Kasumi: Kuno, no!
Kuno: I must find my loves! I cannot rest while they are in danger!
Tofu: If you leave now, you'll never make it. I'm afraid it will take a
many days of rest before you can leave your bed.
Kuno: My fighting spirit shall overcome! Akane! Pig-tailed girl! I
SHALL FIND YOU!!! [With that, the tent shakes open and Kuno steps out,
only to grab his side and fall to the ground.] My body has betrayed me.
[With that, Kuno falls unconcious. Tofu and Nabiki walk out to retrieve
Kuno.]
Nabiki: Kuno baby, you're pathetic.
Tofu: At least this time he only got a few feet away. [Looks over about
10 feet. On the ground there is a mud puddle in the rough shape of Kuno's
body.] Last time he almost made it 20 paces.
[Title Screen: We see RANMA 1/2: CARETAKER OF THE ROSE--PART EIGHT: RUMBLE
UNDER THE SURFACE! CHRIS CONFRONTS THE MASTER, over a picture of a
beautiful black rose. As we watch, the title fades and the rose changes
into a rich blue. Then we fade to black.]
[Next Scene: Ranma and Akane are standing back to back in a cavern. Both
have their fists held at the ready. Their tension is obvious as they watch
the caverns around them. The silence is opressive, and both of them are
sweating. After a few moments, Ranma pushes against Akane's back slightly,
and she pushes back a bit hard. Ranma shoves back just a bit harder, and
suddenly Akane and Ranma are looking at each other with clenched fists.]
Akane: What'd you do that for?!
Ranma: Hey, you started it!
Akane: I did not! You pushed me first! Ranma, you-you idiot!
Ranma: Tomboy!
Akane: PERVERT!!
Ranma: YOU ARE SO UNCUTE!
Someone: Excuse me. I do not mean to interrupt.
Ranma and Akane: Huh? [They both look at the newcomer. It is a pallid
white, manlike shape. It is rather short, and its shapeless face has
large, solid blue eyes, a gash of a mouth, and only the hint of a nose.
Clothed in a blue uniform of some kind, it is rather small in stature, and
blinking rapidly.]
Akane: AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!! ITS A MONSTER!!!!!! [Akane leaps into Ranma's
arms, and he falls right on his rear in surprise. Akane scrambles behind
Ranma, who is trying to back up as well.]
Newcomer: P-p-please do not hurt me! I mean you no harm!
Akane: Huh? [She looks up from Ranma's back to see the newcomer on the
ground, and shivering with fear.]
Ranma: Wh-what do you want?
Newcomer: I wish only to help you! Please do not hurt me! [Slight
pause.]
Akane: [Pushing Ranma over rudely.] Ranma! How could you threaten such a
helpless creature?
Ranma: Threaten a...? Hey, you're the one who called it a monster!
Akane: Hmp! [Akane turns away from Ranma and kneels down next to the
newcomer.] It's okay, we're not going to hurt you.
Newcomer: T-truly? [He gets up off the ground and bows to them.] Then I
must introduce myself. I am Shogo, the last of my people to resist the
Shadow. [He looks directly at Ranma.] I am here to warn you about him.
He wishes your death.
Ranma: A shadow, huh? [Ranma and Akane stand up.] Doesn't sound like a
threat to me.
Shogo: Please sir, do not underestimate his magic powers. He not only
enslaved all of my people when he arrived here, but he took possession of
Narinkito's Heart as well.
Ranma: Well, he's just never gone up against a real martial artist before.
When I see him, I'll just make him let all of your folks loose and give
back that Mariokito whatsit too.
Shogo: Please sir, you must listen! He is hunting you with my own people!
[Ranma and Akane startle backward at the tone in Shogo's voice.]
[Next Scene: Chris is carrying Kodachi down the corridor, smiling to
himself. Kodachi begins to stir, and Chris watches as she wakes up.]
Kodachi: Mmm, I-[opens her eyes and stops as suddenly as she realizes that
she is in Chris's arms.] Could you please take your hands off my person?
[Her voice is accusingly cold, as if Chris was doing something improper.]
Chris: [Smile drops instantly.] Oh! I'm sorry, I-i-[puts her down and
shuts up.]
Kodachi: I must apologize again. It seems my desire to see my
Ranma-darling safe again has worn me to complete exhaustion. [She checks
herself and looks over at Chris.] Have you seen my ribbon?
Chris: Your ribbon? Ah...[He pulls it from the back of his belt.] Here
you are.
Kodachi: [Takes the ribbon.] Do you know how long we have been traveling?
Chris: It's hard to tell. I can't tell how fast time passes down here in
these caverns. There's nothing to take a reference by. [Looks back the
way they came.] It couldn't be more than a couple of hours, though.
Kodachi: We must continue our journey then. [She starts walking, but then
stops after a few steps. She looks back at Chris.] I think I should say
something before we continue, however. I have noticed that you have a
strong attraction for me. [Chris starts back, wide eyed.] Regardless of
my emotional outbursts, I suggest that you direct your affections somewhere
else. I am only for my beloved Ranma.
Chris: [After a few moments.] Kodachi, you are right that I am attracted
to you. [Chris gives a wry smile.] You're-you're beautiful. [Kodachi
seems a bit taken aback by that, as if she doesn't know how to take the
compliment.] But you don't have to worry about that. What you need right
now is a friend, and that is what I would like to be to you.
Kodachi: A...friend. [Looks at him suspiciously.] You're not just doing
this to try to get me to like you are you.
Chris: No, not really. You're a lonely girl Kodachi, and it tears my
heart to see that. I'll be your friend on whatever terms you like.
[Smiles at her again.] Now c'mon, let's get going before anything can
happen to your precious Ranma.
Kodachi: O-okay. [Almost nervously, Kodachi walks with Chris down the
corridor a ways. Then both of them stop suddenly when a loud hissing sound
starts coming from the corridors around them.]
Chris: What was that?
Kodachi: I've never heard anything like it. [She goes into a fighting
stance with her ribbon.] It sounds dangerous.
Chris: It most certainly does. [Chris raises up his broom and puts a hand
behind him protectively.] Stay behing me Kodachi. I don't want you
getting hurt.
Kodachi: I can take care of myself, you know. [Chris looks back and locks
eyes with her.]
Chris: I know. But I have trouble concentrating when I think you're in
danger. [Kodachi looks surprised at that.] Now just watch my back.
[Chris starts forward into the next cave. He steps inside, looking to the
left and right carefully. We see an empty cave with an opening across the
way from the one Chris is standing in. Chris turns back to talk to
Kodachi.]
Chris: I don't see any-[THUMP! Chris is jumped on something from above
and falls to the ground. As his attacker lands, we can see it looks like a
man-spider. It has a generally humaniod shape, with a chitinous outer
shell and six arms. It's face is hairless and hard, with large pincers
that drip slime.] Ungg. [The spider-thing looks over at Kodachi and
throws a line of silk at her from his arm. It loops over her arms and
holds her tight.]
Kodachi: AAAAHHHH!!!! HELP ME! [The spider-thing jerks Kodachi toward
him and leaps into the next cave. Chris gets up staggering, and bangs into
the wall with his shoulder in his hurry to get into the next cavern. As he
reaches it we see a wide cavern covered with spider's silk. Kodachi is
hanging from the ceiling by the single strand, and seems rather annoyed.]
Chris: Kodachi! Are you all right? Where did that thing go?
Kodachi: I don't know! [Chris starts to listen very carefully, be we hear
nothing.] Could you please get me down now?
Chris: [sounding rather distracted] Huh? Oh, just a sec...[The spider
thing explodes from the far wall, fangs gleaming.]
Kodachi: Look out! [The spider thing throws it's silk at Chris, but he
catches it on the end of his broom. Chris yanks on his end hard, and the
spider thing is jerked onto his own web. It struggles against it, but
seems firmly stuck.]
Chris: [To himself] I've got to finish him off...Aha! [We see from
Chris's perspective, and we see a narrow pathway in the room clear of the
webbing that would take Chris close enough to strike with his broom.] Hold
on Kodachi, I'll be right back.
Kodachi: I hope you know what you're doing. [Chris starts to edge his way
toward the spider thing. He nearly falls a few times, but he catches
himself right before contacting the web. The spider thing has stopped
struggling and seems resigned to it's fate. Then when Chris gets close...]
Spider Thing: HHHIIISSS!!! [The spider thing leaps up, and launches itself
at Chris. Chris gets walloped on the chest, and is falling backward.]
Kodachi: NO! [The spider thing begins to come back at Chris to finish him
off. Chris looks up and sees it approaching, and we see a glint in his
eye. Chris plants his broom in the webbing behind him, and does a
handstand on it. The spider things eyes open wide as it sees its impending
doom. Chris's double kick hits with a KRACK!! and the spider thing is
sent sailing into the far wall.] YES!
[Chris is still going backwards however. He looks up at Kodachi, and
readies his fist.]
Chris: HOKORI-KEN!!! [We see the wind slice throuch Kodachi's bonds, and
her fall onto a small bare patch in the floor. Chris smiles as he hits the
ground, and Kodachi looks over to see Chris impact.]
Kodachi: Chris! [Chris hits and looks very surprised as he goes right
through and falls into the darkness below. The last thing he sees is
Kodachi looking over the edge of the hole he made as he fell, and then,
darkness.]
[Next Scene: Shampoo is running down a corridor with Mousse in her arms.
As she runs by the camera, we see several humaniod wolf-like creatures
chasing her. They are wearing purple and gold uniforms, and are all
carrying swords or spears. They are snarling and snapping as they run,
taken by the chase.]
Mousse: Shampoo, what is wrong?!
Shampoo: Strange dog things with swords chase us.
Mousse: Strange dog...Shampoo, look out! [Right in front of Shampoo and
Mousse, two snarling wolf-men pop out of a side tunnel.]
Shampoo: Aiya! [She jumps up and kicks both with the same arc. Both
wolf-men slam into the walls while Shampoo runs further down the corridor.
Shampoo stops suddenly as she reaches a dead end.]
Mousse: Shampoo, leave me here and make your way through the pack. Surely
they will not hound you when fresh meat is so cloemph! [Shampoo clamps
Mousse's lips closed with her fingers.]
Shampoo: Shampoo no leave anyone behind! And don't call Shampoo Shirley!
[She sets Mousse down carefully, and takes her fighting stance up before
him.] You fight! [The wolf-men and Shampoo are at a stand off, waiting
for the others to attack first. Meanwhile, Mousse is looking around
feverishly for an escape.]
Mousse: I'll be damned to the darkest hell if I'll let Shampoo die
here...Aha! [Mousse looks up and sees an opening in the ceiling.] All I
need to do is stand and...AARRGGHH!![Mousse attempts to stand and grabs his
side and falls to his knees. Mousse opens his eyes that were clenched in
pain, and looks up at the ceiling.] This will have to do.
Shampoo: Aiya! [Meanwhile, Shampoo has started combat with the
wolf-things. As we watch she parries a sword blow with her right bonbori
and retaliates with her left one, sending the offending wolf-thing across
the cave. Still, she is cut in several places, and is breathing hard. It
seems a only matter of time before she goes down. Suddenly she looks
behind herself in surprise.] Mousse!
[Mousse stands and throws a chain to the ceiling. It arcs up and catches
on something above them. Shampoo runs toward the collapsing Mousse and
grabs him with one hand and the chain with the other. The snarling
wolf-men can just dance and howl, as Mousse takes up the other end of the
chain with them.]
[Next Scene: Ukyou and Ryouga are walking down a corridor together. Ukyou
is chewing her lower lip in thought, and Ryouga seems to be concerned
mostly with trying not to get seperated from Ukyou. As they pass out of
this corridor, they look up to see a vast network of walkways linked with
caves. The bottom of the cavern cannot be seen. Ryouga's eyes open wide,
and he nearly faints.]
Ryouga: Oh no! How will I ever find my way to Akane...
Ukyou: Hey! You and I are in this together, right! [She reaches out and
takes his hand.] Just hold on and don't get seperated from me no matter
what happens.
Ryouga: Okay. [He squares himself and they begin to walk foreward. As
they move on, a small and dark shape begins to jump from walkway to
walkway. Ryouga and Ukyou walk on without noticing it, and it suddenly
darts by Ryouga.]
Ryouga: AH! [Ukyou watches as Ryouga puts his hand to his face and looks
at the blood from his face.]
Ukyou: Ryouga!
Ryouga: What was that? [They both look up and see a small, deformed man
in black hanging by one arm from the walkway above them. He looks like a
classic Igor, and has a sharp knife in his other hand. It is red with
Ryouga's blood.]
Igor: What do we have here? [It smiles wickedly.] Meat for my master's
table, hmm? HA HA HA HA!!! [Igor flicks his knife at Ukyou, but Ryouga
manages to pull her back in time. Igor swings down to the walkway that
Ukyou and Ryouga are standing on, drawing a second knife.]
Ukyou: This meat fights back! [Ukyou throws a series of spatulas at Igor.
He jumps away to a second walkway as they impact on the stone. Igor looks
over at Ukyou and Ryouga and smiles again.]
Igor: This, this shall be fun. [He leers at Ukyou.] Can you take what
you dish out, little missy? [Ukyou just stares at him, clutching her
fighting spatula in readiness.] Hmph. TAKE THIS!!! [Igor starts throwing
knives repeatedly. Ukyou scrambles backwards to get out of the way, and a
line of sharp knives starts making its way across the walkway. Ukyou trips
on a small stone and falls on her rear. As we see several knives speeding
toward Ukyou...]
Ryouga: NO! [Ryouga darts in front of Ukyou, and pops open his umbrella.
The knives skip off and clatter to the ground.]
Ukyou: Ryouga! Are you okay?
Ryouga: [Looks over his shoulder.] I'm fine, but are you okay? [Ukyou
nods at him. Ryouga smiles, showing his fangs, and looks back at Igor.]
Then let's let him dodge for a while.
Ukyou: You got it! [Both Ukyou and Ryouga start hurling spatulas and
bandannas at Igor, forcing him to dodge and jump wildly.]
Igor: Aaah! Frank, help me! [In the background we hear a deep rumbling.]
Ryouga: No one will save you from Ryouga Hibiki! HIIII-YAA!!! [Ryouga
runs straight at Igor, and leaps up at him. We see him speeding toward his
target, his umbrella poised to strike a deadly blow. But, a dark shape
falls from the walkway above them, and Ryouga bounces off its massive
chest. Ryouga flys back into the ground and skids back a few feet.] What
was that?
Ukyou: Ryouga! Watch out!
Ryouga: Huh? [Ryouga looks up woozily, and scrambles to his feet to avoid
a huge green fist. As he looks at his attacker, we see a 10' tall,
massively built "Frankenstein's Monster." His skin is green and is covered
with a patchwork of scars and stiches. He is hulking and muscular and his
teeth are clenched in hatred.]
Ukyou: AAAAHHHH!!!! [Frank looks up at Ukyou's screaming, but Igor darts
past him and over Ryouga. Frank looks back at Ryouga, satisfied that his
friend would be taken care of.]
Ryouga: I don't know what dark magics conjured you up, but I will defeat
you!
Frank: URRGH! [Frank's voice is deep and loud, almost deafening. As
Ryouga jumps up to strike it, it pulls back its massive forearm to attack.
We see a freeze frame of them ready to attack, and then the screen fades to
black.]
[Next Scene: Back with Ranma and Akane, they are both staring at the
exitied Shogo. Akane looks worried, but Ranma looks skeptical.]
Ranma: Look, ah, don't take this personally, but if all your people look
like you, then I'm not really that worried about them.
Akane: Ranma!
Shogo: Sir, I know that I do not inspire fear, but my people are of all
different shapes and abilities. [Both Ranma and Akane look confused.] My
people were all created by magicians and sorcerers long ago. [We fade to a
scene where we see a man in black robes in an arcane ritual. We see Shogo
suddenly appear in front of him, head bowed in silent submission. We still
see this while we hear Shogo's voice.] We were intended as servants and
soldiers, controlled by our creators.
Akane: How did you all get here?
Shogo: A man that people call the Master took exception to the fact that
wizards were creating slaves and forcing them to do dangerous and hard
work. [We see a man in blue robes appear in front of the black mage. The
black mage shoots a bolt of pure blackness at the interloper, but it is
turned aside with a pass of his hands. A blue flash is seen, and then the
man in blue has his hand held out to a cowering Shogo. Then we come back
to Shogo talking to Ranma and Akane.] A powerful mage in his own right, he
sought out all of us, defeating our creators and taking us back here to
live in peace.
Ranma: Why would he take you back here?
Shogo: This place is called Narinkito, for it is alive. She is the
creation of an evil man who wanted to control the earth. Freed by the
strength of the Master, her power has protected us until now.
Akane: When her "heart" has been stolen by this Shadow.
Shogo: Yes. Deep inside these caverns, there is a small statue. It is
the center of Narinkito's powers, and may be used to control her. [Shogo's
eyes look distant.] Doing so causes great pain to her.
Akane: Then we'll go free her. [Ranma starts back.]
Ranma: What, are you kidding! If this Shadow is as powerful as
Shogo-buddy here is saying, we won't have a chance.
Akane: Ranma, we can't let them live like this.
Ranma: If you ask me, I think this Master guy should be helping them out.
Shogo: I am afraid that he is no longer with us. It is rumored that the
Shadow was the cause of his death.
Akane: See, they don't have anyone else to turn to.
Ranma: I-i just don't know!
Shogo: I beg you for your help, sir! [Shogo grabs the front of Ranma's
shirt and goes to his knees.] For some reason, the Shadow fears you, and
you alone. He has seen his destruction at your hands in his future. You
must come to our rescue, or the legacy of freedom left by our Master will
be lost forever!
Ranma: But...[He looks over a Shogo, begging in front of him, and then
over at Akane. She is just standing there, a look of trust in her eyes.
Ranma looks at her for a long moment, and then sighs.] Alright. I'll go
and fight this Shadow for you.
Shogo: Thank you, oh thank you!! You must come this way if you are to
face him. [He points to a dark cave passage.]
Ranma: Thanks. [Turns to Akane, who is looking over Ranma's shoulder at
something else.] Well, I guess we should be going, hey? [Ranma looks at
Akane in confusion.] What's wrong?
Akane: [Just points shakily behind Ranma.]
Ranma: Huh? [He turns around and stares into the darkness, and then sees
something emerge from it. Several grinning, bleached white skeletons come
walking out with their eyes glowing an evil, pallid white.]
Ranma and Akane: AAAAHHHH!!!!
[Next scene: Chris is groaning on the floor of a dark cave. Holding his
head, he gets up and squints into the darkness. Then a blue light starts
to eminate from a few feet in front of him. Amazed, Chris looks on as it
begins to take shape.]
Chris: What the...? [A voice comes out of the light. Meanwhile, the
light is taking on a humanoid shape.]
Voice: I am the remnant of he who once governed this place.
Chris: Who are you? What is your name? [The light shapes itself further,
like a man looking about the same build as Chris, wearing a cloak.]
Voice: I am your distant ancestor, the founder of Janijutsu. [The image
coaleses into a near mirror image of Chris, although perhaps 20 years
older. Chris gasps in response.] I am the Master.
[End Episode 8]