Black Rose, Blue Thunder:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Prologue-

	It was raining in Nerima.
	To the citizens of this nominally unusual district in Tokyo rain 
was an annoyance they had become used to. The rain came as often 
as the scattered brawls caused by the various martial artists who 
resided in the area. But unlike the martial artists the rain would 
disappear. And when it did a most enjoyable peace would fill the air.
	Today it had rained. And when the rained cleared away a 
peaceful lull did indeed embrace the community.
	It was a lull that lasted precisely five seconds before being 
disturbed by a sight that even the oldest citizen of Nerima would find 
bizarre. The sight of a rather large kangaroo wearing black boxing 
gloves simultaneously fighting two very angry looking girls wearing 
huge backpacks.
	The girl leading the attack was svelte with a trim athletic figure. 
She had her long raven hair pulled back into a high ponytail and wore 
a face of certain irritation which conveyed itself clearly in her flashing 
violet eyes. Her clothes consisted of a pair of dusty black pants which 
covered what looked to be a violet uniform she wore under it. From 
what could be seen of it the uniform looked to be that of a gymnast 
leaving the crowd to assume that's what she was. Covering the top of 
the leotard was a silk violet Chinese style jacket that had an 
embroidered black rose on the back. The dark gymnast was currently 
involved with wrapping the kangaroo's furry wrists up with a ribbon 
that matched the color of her top.
	As the gymnast did this her companion, an incredibly 
statuesque girl with white blonde hair and glowing cobalt eyes, dodged 
a series of attempted punches from the kangaroo as she herself got a 
few punches in. The blonde had her hair pulled back in a pigtail which 
somehow seemed to accent her exotic beauty. And those watching her 
stared closely at her sharp features and wondered about the slightly 
pointed edges her ears had. Unlike her friend the blonde dressed 
entirely in Chinese style clothing that consisted of a short sleeved red 
silk shirt and black tie off pants. Out of the two the blonde appeared 
to be the exalting the most in this mutual attack on their furry foe. As 
she leapt about punching the kangaroo she moved with such grace that 
it seemed like she was floating. In such a motion the blonde hovered 
slightly into the air and delivered a strong kick at the back of the 
kangaroo's head. 	
	All was silent as the kangaroo paused in its erratic fighting 
style, which had been nothing more than a series of forceful and 
dangerous kicks and punches directed at the two girls, then collapsed 
face forward to the ground.
	Watching this the statuesque blonde was the first to comment 
as she shouted, "Hah! Take that old man!" Shifting her attention to the 
gymnast she said, "We sure gave it to him good, huh?"
	"The oaf deserved it," said the gymnast as she brushed some 
dust off the sleeve of her jacket. "He had no right trying to force yet 
another one of his idiotic engagements onto you. No doubt it came 
about due to something as diminutive as a meal, which we can easily 
charm our way into obtaining. Sometimes I wonder the logistics of 
your genetics darling. I am hard pressed in believing that this fool is 
your sire."
	"You and me both," said the blonde with a snort as she kicked 
the kangaroo in the side. "What a pain." Lifting her cobalt gaze she 
questioned, "So we're gonna cut out right? I bet if we dump him off 
and get back on track we can still make good time. The department of 
social services might even be open. We could probably get a few 
scams in before the night is over and score a free meal maybe."
	"That is very true," the dark haired gymnast said in 
consideration as she adjusted the large backpack she wore. "Although 
I am pondering about visiting these people... the Tendos is it? I dread 
to mention it but trouble does seem to have a habit of following us. It 
would be advisable to at least see what sort of hold they claim to have 
before moving on. Added to that fact they could be of some use to us. 
At the very least they should provide us with food and shelter for the 
night. I myself would enjoy experiencing the pleasure of a comfortable 
night of indoor rest again while we continue our search."
	"I suppose," the blonde said slowly. "After all, the last thing I 
need is another person chasing after me cause of Pop's blundering. I 
bet my brother is doing a whole lot better without having him around. 
Those three girls that went after us weren't even specifically engaged 
to me! The contract was made so it could be either me or my brother 
but since I'm the only one around..." She let loose a frustrated groan. 
"If we got rid of Pop I know all this crap would go away." Sighing the 
blonde commented, "I would do it but I know Mother would be angry 
with me. I guess we better find out what this engagement is all about 
since we're gonna be hanging around here to follow leads. Maybe I'll 
even get lucky and they'll let me take a hot bath."
	Smiling in deep affection the gymnast shook her raven head 
and said, "It always leads back to your desire for hot water doesn't it 
dearest?"
	"Of course," said the blonde. She hefted the kangaroo over 
her shoulder as they walked at an easy pace. "This form has its own 
advantages but I'd rather be my normal boring old self, y'know?"
	"I would hardly call your true nature boring," purred the 
gymnast as she bumped shoulders with the blonde. "But do not fret. 
Soon as we reach the Tendo residence hot water shall flow in 
abundance and you shall be returned to normal."
	"But first..." the blonde trailed off slowly. "We gotta get rid of 
some extra baggage."
	Suddenly a golden glow surrounded the blonde and the 
gymnast glanced around uneasily to stare at the gaping citizens of 
Nerima. The citizens were frozen in shock as they saw something they 
had never observed in their years of living with nonstop martial arts 
weirdness.
	They saw a girl flying.
	The blonde hovered in the air a moment before she shouted 
down at the gymnast who was staring up at her with a wary 
expression. "I'm gonna fly ahead!" the blonde shouted. "I'll meet up 
with you later, okay? I have to find someplace to dump the old man!"
	Saying that the blonde girl flew away at rapid speeds leaving 
only a few white clouds dissipating in her exit. Her companion 
watched this then gave a bemused sigh before moving into a quick run 
towards the direction of the aforementioned Tendo dojo.
	And in doing this they left the several hundred shocked 
Nerima citizens behind. Citizens who were all experiencing 
simultaneous queasy feelings in their stomachs. Things were definitely 
about to get stranger in their small district. That much was for sure.

-One-

	Tendo Kasumi walked out of the sitting room that was filled to 
the rim with her Father's wails. He was loudly declaring his 
disappointment about their protesting the engagement that he had 
arranged for them. As his wailing grew louder Kasumi headed outside 
and towards the sound of knocking that had caused her to leave the 
sitting room.
	More than anything Kasumi disliked her Father's habit of 
throwing highly emotional fits. Often it felt like a form of blackmail to 
her. A simple ploy that he would use against them to get what he 
wanted. Sighing at this thought Kasumi paused at the front doors to 
the dojo and was about to ask who was there when a cheerful voice 
interrupted her.
	"Hi!" the voice called out.
	Blinking Kasumi lifted her dark brown head and stared with 
wide eyes at the figure of a gorgeous blonde girl flying in the air as a 
golden aura surrounded her. The blonde held the hand of another girl 
with raven hair who was floating beside the blonde wearing an equally 
cheery face.
	"Is this the Tendo dojo?" asked the blonde girl.
	Still in shock from seeing a girl flying Kasumi could only 
dumbly nod and the blonde hooted then said, "Yes! It's hot bath time 
for me!"
	 The dark haired girl shook her head at this then turned her 
attention to Kasumi and said, "Might we be able to converse with the 
head of your household? We have information of some interest to your 
family and would like to share it with you all as expediently as 
possible."
	"Of course," said Kasumi as she snapped out the stunned state 
that had taken hold of her. Shifting back into her polite mode she 
smiled and said, "Won't you please float to the ground and follow me? 
I'll take you to Father right away. He's the one that you'll want to see."
	"We thank you humbly," said the dark haired girl as she gave a 
formal bow.
	Her blonde companion, who seemed to be the one maintaining 
their flying status, was still talking rapidly to herself about taking a hot 
bath and was only snapped out of this state after the dark haired girl 
gave her a poke in the side.
	"Huh?" asked the blonde.
	"Going down darling," said the dark haired girl while pointing 
towards the ground. "I've been able to gain a request to see the one 
who will be able to answer our inquiries. And you know what that will 
mean."
	Immediately the blonde's cobalt eyes gleamed in anticipation 
and the two girls floated down to the ground to join Kasumi. Upon 
their landing the eldest Tendo sister was stunned at the sheer height of 
the blonde who had to be nearly six feet tall. There was also the added 
fact of the cute pointed tips that her ears had.
	The dark haired girl noticed Kasumi's interest and gave her a 
soft smile then prompted, "Shall we be off?"
	"Oh my!" said Kasumi suddenly, a bit embarrassed at her 
daydreaming caused by the blonde's appearance. "I'm so sorry. Please 
follow me."
	And with that Kasumi made her way back inside of the dojo 
while wondering about the nature of these two very strange girls that 
were visiting them. They couldn't possibly have anything to do with her 
Father's recent announcement.
	Or could they?

	"Father," called Kasumi as she entered the sitting room. "We 
have visitors."
	"Visitors?" questioned Tendo Soun eagerly as he leapt to his 
feet. "Is it my old friend Saotome?"
	"I'm not sure," said Kasumi with a smile while she thought to 
herself that it was unlikely that either of these two girls were her 
Father's old training partner. "You'll have to ask them yourself."
	"Them?" asked Soun as the figures of two girls rounded the 
corner and met his gaze. "Who...?" Soun trailed off as he gaped at 
them. "Are you?"
	"I am Kuno Kodachi," said the dark haired girl. She paused 
then added lavishly, "The black rose."
	"I'm Saotome Ranma," said the statuesque blonde as she 
looked around distractedly. Her cobalt eyes narrowed and she 
demanded, "You guys got hot water right?"
	"Saotome...?" began Soun in a daze.
	"Ranma?" finished his daughters together.
	And a second later the figure of Tendo Soun fell to the floor in 
a heap as an echoing silence filled the air. His daughters stared at their 
father in shock while Ranma looked wary at this reaction. It was a 
feeling that Kodachi shared as she sighed and said, "Subtly has never 
been an option for you has it Ranma darling?"
	"Not really," replied Ranma dryly. She shifted her attention to 
the still shocked Tendos and muttered, "But it ain't like they're doing 
any better."

	"Daddy," said Nabiki in exasperation. "I thought you said that 
Ranma was a boy. She doesn't look much like a boy to me." After 
saying this she rested a curious hazel gaze on the form of the 
statuesque blonde who was peering at the ceiling with some interest. 
	"But Saotome's postcard said that he had one of his sons with 
him," Soun blubbered from under the covers that Kasumi had tucked 
him into. Pulling the blanket up over his head he moaned loudly then 
said in muffled tones, "Our promise to join Anything Goes schools of 
martial arts will never be fulfilled now!"
	"Joining the Anything Goes schools?" questioned Kodachi as 
she moved forward. "Excuse me Tendo-san but what exactly does our 
dearest Ranma have to do with such matters? Explanations as to this 
situation is why we have arrived so rudely at your premises. If you 
might inform us as to the circumstances surrounding this promise we 
shall swiftly leave your company never to bother you again."
	Sniffing as he continued to sob quietly Soun said, "We made a 
promise, Saotome and I, to the Master that we would continue the 
Anything Goes school of martial arts. Only two families practice the 
style in the world today and that's the Tendos and the Saotomes. The 
Master thought that if we engaged two of our children in marriage they 
would keep our traditions alive along with merging the might of both 
their skills in the martial arts. But now it will never happen because 
Saotome lied about having sons!" Immediately after saying this Soun 
burst into tears as the group took this information into consideration.
	Finally Akane broke the silence and said bluntly, "I think this is 
stupid." Everyone blinked at her harsh statement and unruffled from 
the reaction Akane continued, "Just because Ranma is a girl is no 
reason to treat her this way Dad. We should let them stay here."
	On hearing this the new arrivals exchanged sly looks that did 
not make their way past Nabiki who watched them with careful hazel 
eyes. "We thank you a thousand times over," said Kodachi politely as 
she bowed lowly. Flashing Akane a charming smile she produced a 
black rose out of thin air and offered it to the other girl. "Truly you are 
a person possessing a wealth of kindness to share such rich dwellings 
with beggars like us. Even if it is for only a night we meekly accept 
your offer and give our endless thanks."
	Blushing Akane stammered, "I-I... okay. It's okay." Managing 
to spit this out Akane said in more assured tones, "We don't mind at 
all... but only a night? You can stay longer if you want." She gave her 
Father a slight shake. "Right Dad?" As a response Soun merely 
moaned again and Akane beamed. "See? He agreed. You can stay 
longer if you want. Our dojo is your dojo."
	"Truly you are an angel fallen to earth," said Kodachi warmly 
with her violet eyes shining. "But sadly we must return to our usual 
troublesome quest that sustains our lives for now. We merely wished 
to resolve matters with your family while discovering the truth behind 
the whispered rumors of an engagement involving Ranma darling." 
Kodachi shifted her attention then poked Ranma in the ribs and the tall 
blonde jumped a bit as she seemed to hover in the air. "Isn't this 
correct dearest?"
	"Huh?" said Ranma she blinked before glancing from Kodachi 
to Akane then back again. "Yeah. That's right." She paused a second 
then asked abruptly, "Can I take a bath?"
	"What?" asked Akane who was a bit shocked at this sudden 
request.
	"Did you ask to take a bath?" Nabiki joined her sister in 
surprise at Ranma's outburst.
	With a wince Ranma said slowly, "Uhmm. Yeah. I just feel 
really, really, really, dirty from traveling all day and I'd like to have a 
hot bath if it'd be okay."
	Before Akane or Nabiki could reply Kasumi rose smoothly to 
her feet and said, "Of course you can have a hot bath Ranma. Follow 
me won't you?"
	At this Ranma leapt eagerly to her feet and trailed after 
Kasumi. A silence filled the room and finally Nabiki turned her 
attention to the dark haired girl who had been controlling almost the 
entire conversation. Kodachi, that was what she said her name was, 
that and something about some type of black flower. Nabiki knew 
what Kodachi was the second she started talking. She had met 
thousands of con artists and some at her school would even venture to 
say that Nabiki herself was one of them.
	No doubt about it, this Kodachi was a smooth operator but 
what were she and her friend up to? And how had they known about 
the engagement? It wasn't like any sort of con job Nabiki had ever 
heard of. And she had heard of plenty during her experience in the 
often harsh world of competitive martial arts prize fighting tournaments. 
Maybe they were planning to blackmail the family... or perhaps this 
was just going to be an inside job for robbery. Either way Nabiki 
wasn't about to let them out of her sight. Especially the dark haired 
one called Kodachi whom she believed to be the ring leader. While 
the blonde appeared to have a good head on her shoulders she did not 
seem to have the clever wit of her companion.  
	Noting Nabiki's study the Kodachi raised an eyebrow and 
questioned, "Are there horns sticking out of my head or do you simply 
not trust me?"
	Blinking at this statement Nabiki could only stare baffled at the 
other girl who tilted her head to one side in expectation of an answer. 
Before Nabiki could comment Akane cut in, "Ignore Nabiki! She's not 
usually so suspicious but we don't get a lot of strangers."
	"Ah," said Kodachi in understanding as she graced Nabiki 
with a speculative smile. "I sympathize greatly. It must be hard to allow 
those you who are unknown to you into such a protected area of your 
life. If you wish we shall vacate as earlier stated." As she said this 
Kodachi rose to her feet and soon as she did this Akane followed.
	"No, no! Don't do that!" said Akane quickly as she waved her 
hands. Pausing she formed a thoughtful expression then said, "Please 
don't go. We'd really like for you to stay. Besides, you haven't even 
seen our dojo yet."
	Halting in her slow stride Kodachi turned to look back at 
Akane curiously. "Dojo you say?"

	 Sinking into the hot water of the bath Ranma sighed in bliss as 
she felt the change shifting in her system as she went back into her 
natural male state.
	Gazing down at his masculine body in definite approval Ranma 
said, "I gotta admit that having powers is nice but sometimes I just 
need to be a guy. Too bad I gotta change back before I head down 
there." Releasing another sigh he tilted back his jet black head to gaze 
pensively at the ceiling. "It ain't even an option. I know that from the 
look Dachi gave me. It'd be too much trouble to stay here and sort 
things out because of Pop. Plus it looks like Dachi ain't in the mood to 
deal with it and without her smooth talking..."
	Ranma snorted, "There ain't no way I'd ever get outta here 
alive. Looks like that Tendo guy is taking this promise of theirs pretty 
serious. Kinda strange that Pop never mentioned him or that Master of 
theirs before. I wonder if bro knows about any of this? Last time I got 
a postcard from him he was in Trinidad Tobago so who knows when 
he's gonna find us. Well, this stupid engagement isn't my problem. I'm 
just gonna go along with the plan and split in the morning after we 
managed to snag some food and a good night's sleep. I got enough 
problems on my hands without having to get rid of another iinazuke."
	Pausing in his rambling talk Ranma thought about the dark 
haired gymnast who'd been traveling with him for well over two years 
and smiled. Without Kuno Kodachi his life would definitely be a lot 
more complicated. A lot more complicated and a lot less fun. She had 
to be the best friend he ever had and sometimes when he gazed into 
her luminous violet eyes Ranma found himself wishing that they were 
more than that. So far they were moving at a pretty slow rate than 
most couples did but he wanted to be careful and make sure that he 
did everything right.
	There were very few things that Ranma felt bound by honor 
about but treating Kodachi like a lady... well. That was one of them. 
And besides that, he was fully content with the scattered kisses they 
shared which could alternate from a sweet tenderness to a burning 
passion. Ranma knew how lucky he was to have found a girl who 
genuinely liked and understood him but was also secure in their 
relationship. He knew this and had decided to sustain his honor in this 
sole area as he vowed to wait until Kodachi deemed it was time to be 
fully intimate with her. This decision was also helped by the fact that 
Ranma had met her older brother briefly when he attended middle 
school and he knew exactly what Tatewaki would do to him if he 
maltreated Kodachi.
	These feelings were why Ranma was stubbornly opposed to 
any engagements they came upon. He didn't care about any sort of 
promises his Father had made on his behalf. In fact most the 
engagements weren't specific and could be meant for Ranma or his 
brother. It just so happened that since Ranma was the son that was 
present he was the one who got saddled with the reponsibility. But to 
Ranma who he married should be his decision and as far as he was 
concerned his mind was already made up.
	Kodachi was the only girl for him. He knew this and so did 
she. This knowledge was instinctive and so strong was their belief in 
their destined love that none of the many admirers they had picked up 
in their three years of traveling together ever had the slightest chance of 
destroying their bond. This was because Kodachi knew Ranma inside 
and out, just as he knew her, and that sort of connection simply cannot 
be broken. Especially when the people sharing it have only found 
acceptance in each other. 
	In their meeting they encountered the first person in their lives 
who did not scorn their natural indiscretions of stealing food or conning 
people out of money for survival. Rather they traded secrets and 
devised new and better plans for doing so. In short, Ranma and 
Kodachi found in one another their partner in crime. And they vowed 
to be partners forever. Together they made a phenomenal team and 
Kodachi had helped Ranma out of more tight jams then he'd like to 
recall. Jams which were all mostly caused by his bumbling Father. 
Ranma grimaced as he thought of his Father, he was more trouble than 
he was worth but he was a good teacher and was admittedly a great 
martial artist. It was too bad he had an irritating tendency of engaging 
his sons off to different girls all for stupid things such as a free meal. 
Something that they could easily scam for him.
	Of course, when his father had arranged all these engagements 
Ranma was only a small child and Kodachi had been nowhere in sight. 
Sighing as he thought about his traveling companion Ranma wondered 
what would have become of his life without Kodachi at his side. As far 
as Ranma was concerned she was his personal definition of feminine 
perfection.
	Once you disregarded that frightening laugh of hers of course.

	"Are you sure you wish to spar Nabiki?" asked Kodachi as 
she removed her silk Chinese style jacket and set it aside gently. In 
doing so she revealed the tight violet top to her gymnast's uniform 
which accented her impressive upper body muscles.
	"Oh I'm sure," drawled Nabiki while flexing her muscles and 
moving into a relaxed fighting position. Wearing the traditional white gi 
of their dojo Nabiki very much reflected the figure of a skillful fighter. 
"This will be good for me. I haven't had a hard workout in a long time. 
Besides, this is just a friendly match. For fun." Forming a small 
dangerous smile Nabiki said, "Right Kodachi?"
	"As you wish," said Kodachi lowly. She had now accepted 
Nabiki's challenge and was silently praying that the girl was as good as 
she thought she was.
	Inspecting Kodachi's toned body Akane looked anxiously to 
her older sister and said in exasperation, "Nabiki! Why do you always 
have to be so violent? You know this is why all the boys think you're 
so strange! And Kodachi is a guest, you shouldn't be fighting with her. 
Even if it is for fun."
	"Akane," Nabiki said slowly as she cracked her knuckles. "As 
the next in line for the Tendo dojo I'm supposed to give and receive 
challenges in order to improve my skills as a martial artist. Maybe if 
you weren't so occupied with the fair play attitude of all the sports you 
play you'd remember the code of a true fighter."
	Forming a slightly wounded expression Akane folded her arms 
across her chest and sniffed as she said, "Fine. Go ahead and fight 
Kodachi for no reason."
	"Thank you," said Nabiki sardonically as hazel eyes focused 
clinically on Kodachi. "I will." Narrowing her gaze she questioned, 
"You ready?"
	Giving a short nod Kodachi replied, "Always."
	Kodachi studied Nabiki and wondered if she should 
implement any of her weapons in the battle. Certainly it would only 
add to her current problem but it might be necessary if Nabiki's skills 
proved higher than she estimated. The problem being if she and 
Ranma wanted to stay in the dojo for the night, then leave in the 
morning as planned they would have to stay in the Tendos good 
graces. And staying in their good graces did not include Kodachi 
beating up the arrogant middle daughter of the household. Frowning 
slightly Kodachi reluctantly moved into fighting position. She held up a 
graceful one legged arch that preceded any type of action that 
followed and eyed Nabiki with calm violet eyes.
	Suddenly Nabiki crouched lowly then leapt at Kodachi with 
unexpected speed and the dark gymnast barely had time to dodge as 
the other girl aimed a strong kick at her midsection. Eyes wide at this 
maneuver Kodachi bounded swiftly into the air to put some space 
between her and Nabiki. Upon landing on her toes she saw that 
Nabiki was once again in a crouched position. Her mannerisms caused 
Kodachi to note the similarity the middle Tendo sister had to that of a 
wild cat. In another swift movement Nabiki flew at her, this time her 
hands flashing in undeterminable speed as she aimed a series of 
punches at Kodachi. Ducking each would be blow Kodachi bent 
herself into a huddled position and was about to move into a backflip 
when without warning a large kangaroo bounded angrily into the dojo 
then launched itself at her. In an instant Kodachi pushed Nabiki to one 
side and retrieved her favorite weapon.
	Pulling out the violet ribbon Kodachi snapped it into position 
and flung it at the kangaroo. Wrapping it effectively around it's ankles 
she laughed her echoing high pitched laugh that she had been trying not 
to use as often because she knew how it disturbed Ranma. Covering 
her mouth with her hand Kodachi said disdainfully, "That was a 
shoddy attempt at overtaking me, old fool. Surely you did not presume 
that the black rose would be so easily defeated?" Violet eyes gleamed 
dangerously as she said, "You shall surely pay for such a folly. I will 
never allow you to proceed with yet another scheme to unhappily trap 
Ranma's affections!"
	After she said this the kangaroo hastily kicked the ribbon 
away from its ankles. Now hopping to its feet the kangaroo bounced 
up and down at a easy pace. The kangaroo shifted its weight as it 
studied its opponent. Suddenly leaning back on its large tail the 
kangaroo let loose a volley of strong kicks with its large and powerful 
feet at Kodachi who barely managed to avoid them. This led to an all 
out assault on the part of the kangaroo who began hopping after 
Kodachi on its tail while aiming bone breaking kicks and punches at 
the dark gymnast who continuously avoided them all by a hair.
	"Akane!" shouted Nabiki to her younger sister from across the 
dojo. The two had observed this odd scene with some shock for 
several moments before Nabiki snapped out of this state. "Go get 
Ranma for help! If she's the heir the Saotome Anything Goes school of 
martial arts she should be able to help get rid of this thing!"
	Blinking Akane nodded her head rapidly before dashing out of 
the dojo leaving Nabiki to observe the battle between Kodachi and 
the kangaroo. Watching this peculiar scene Nabiki said to herself, "A 
kangaroo. Why is there a kangaroo in our dojo? And on top of that 
why in the world is a kangaroo attacking her?"
	Considering all of these self induced questions Nabiki hoped 
that she would get lucky and Ranma might be able to explain the 
abnormality of a violent kangaroo appearing to know martial arts 
suddenly showing up in their dojo.
	Shaking these thoughts out of her head the heir to the Tendo 
dojo jumped into the fray to help Kodachi in fighting the out of control 
kangaroo. Even if Nabiki didn't trust the dark gymnast she wasn't 
about to let her be killed by some psychotic zoo animal. 

	Dashing up the stairs at a harried pace Akane ran towards the 
furo then flung the door open and said, "Ranma! You've got to come 
quick! A kangaroo is in our dojo attacking Kodachi and don't ask me 
what a kanga..."
	Akane trailed off dumbly as she gazed at not the figure of the 
statuesque blonde girl from before but rather at a rakishly handsome 
young man with jet black hair who was gazing at her in certain panic. 
The boy started stammering a series of explanations, none of which 
accessed in Akane's mind, as he hastily rose to his feet to reveal all of 
his muscular and rather abundant assets. Immediately on seeing this 
Akane blushed deeply as she tore her light brown eyes away from 
where they had been previously focused. Noticing the change in her 
facial color and direction of her former gaze the boy yelped then dove 
back into the water while still babbling rapidly at her. Backing out of 
the furo slowly Akane shut the doors to it then stared at them for a 
long moment then said in puzzlement, "Who was that?" 

	Meanwhile back in the dojo Nabiki had ceased in her attacks 
as the kangaroo had finally been defeated. She was instead observing 
with wide hazel eyes as Kodachi jumped up and down on the already 
unconscious kangaroo in certain glee. The jumping seemed systematic 
as Kodachi paused to consider her options before she made her next 
leap. It was almost as if Kodachi was planning where her next jump 
would be in accordance to how much damage it would do to the 
passed out animal.
	"Kodachi?" said Nabiki in uncertain tones. "I think you can 
stop."
	Halting in her work Kodachi gave Nabiki a warm smile then 
stepped off the kangaroo. "Certainly you're correct," said Kodachi 
smoothly as she walked towards the other girl. "I was merely taking 
precautions to ensure that he would no longer be able to menace us 
further. The animal suffers from what would could be called a 
psychosomatic complex and appears to have a vendetta against us. 
Ranma and I believe that it had been the subject of laboratory 
experiments which caused its mania and perhaps the unusual fighting 
skills implemented against us. It has been pursuing us for many leagues 
and no matter how many times we defeat the shoddy creature and ship 
it off to a local zoo it always returns to attack us once again. It's quite 
the puzzle you see."
	Listening to this with a face of obvious skepticism Nabiki said 
drolly, "Right. Tell me another one." Placing her hands on her hips 
Nabiki continued, "I'm not buying it and if I were you I'd start telling 
the truth. Especially since it looks like your furry friend is starting to 
wake up."
	Violet eyes shifted from a look of silent respect to certain 
panic as she whirled around but the kangaroo was too fast for her and 
it pulled back a gloved hand to deliver a crushing blow to Kodachi's 
midsection. With a loud thud the dark gymnast hit the far wall of the 
dojo as the kangaroo turned its attention to Nabiki.
	Shifting into a fighting position Nabiki said, "You're not taking 
me out that easily Mister Kangaroo..."
	Nabiki paused in her speech as she watched the kangaroo 
quickly retrieve a sign and black felt pen from its pouch as it then 
began to write.
	"Interfering old fool," groaned Kodachi as she pushed herself 
up into a sitting position. Clutching her sore ribs she said, "Have you 
not attempted to ruin Ranma dearest's life enough without this instance 
added to the list?"
	Seeming agitated at this the kangaroo flipped over its sign and 
began writing even more rapidly. Holding the sign in clear view of both 
Kodachi and Nabiki it read: <He's my son. It's my right to decide who 
he marries.>
	"Your right?" asked Kodachi incredulously as she rose slowly 
to her feet while gripping the dojo wall. "Surely you must be jesting. 
Producing a child does not mean you have the right to play role of the 
Kami in their life. Ranma is of sound mind and you have no right---"
	"Excuse me?" said Nabiki as she interrupted Kodachi who 
bore her violet gaze into the other girl. "But why are you having a 
conversation with a kangaroo? And how exactly is it that a kangaroo 
can write out cohesive sentences?"
	Before Kodachi could reply the kangaroo flipped over the sign 
which now read: <Get me some hot water and I'll answer all of your 
questions.>
	"Hot water?" questioned Nabiki as she wondered about it 
being mentioned in such emphasized tones by both Ranma and now 
the kangaroo.
	Tilting her raven head backwards at the ceiling Kodachi 
murmured to herself, "I did make an attempt to retain our plans Ranma 
darling. Please believe this..."

	Walking into the sitting room Nabiki and Kodachi were 
greeted with the sight of Akane muttering to herself while pacing back 
and forth. Soun seemed unaware of this situation and continued to 
moan beneath the covers while Kasumi watched Akane's actions with 
quiet curiosity. 
	Sensing their arrival Kasumi turned her attention to the 
newcomers and said, "Oh my! A kangaroo."
	Akane paused in her pacing to take in Kasumi's statement and 
then focused on the kangaroo which was leaning back on its tail and 
staring at them all with a calm expression on its features. Blinking at 
this Akane said, "This is getting weirder and weirder... first it's some 
guy in the furo and now it's a kangaroo in the dojo. I knew I shouldn't 
have started taking Coach's new iron supplement pills. They're 
messing with my brain."
	Ignoring the usual introspective mumblings of her younger 
sister Nabiki turned her attention to Kasumi and said, "Oneechan? 
Could you fetch us a kettle of hot water? Apparently it's necessary in 
order to explain what exactly is going on here."
	"Of course," said Kasumi quickly as she left the room still 
wearing a surprised look on her beautiful features.
	Peeping his head out from under the covers Soun questioned, 
"Did someone say kangaroo?"
	"Yes Daddy," said Nabiki with a sigh as she stared at the 
kangaroo who was glaring at Kodachi who was returning this action. 
"There's a kangaroo in the dojo and don't ask me how it got here 
because I have no idea." Nabiki then turned her attention to Akane 
and said, "Now what's this about a guy in the furo?
	"Well," said Akane thoughtfully. "I might've been imagining it 
but when I went to the furo to get Ranma there was this guy in there 
instead. And don't ask me how he got in there. All I know is that he 
definitely isn't one of my old boyfriends. They're not that big."
	"A guy?" questioned Kodachi as she ceased her glaring with 
the kangaroo. Stepping forward she said, "Do you know where this 
intruder is currently?"
	"No," said Akane with some confusion as she noted Kodachi's 
anxious expression. "He seemed embarrassed that I accidentally 
busted in on him so I got out of there pretty quick. Then again, I don't 
know how he got in there in the first place." She looked to Nabiki and 
questioned, "You aren't renting out the furo for money are you?"
	"Please," drawled Nabiki. "Like I really would resort to that. I 
much rather stick to my betting pool business."
	Kodachi continued to look distressed until the sound of deep 
masculine voice met their ears and said, "Don't be like that Dachi. I'd 
never run out of here without you. We're partners remember?"
	Instantly all eyes turned to the figure of a handsome boy with 
jet black hair pulled back into a pigtail. He wore the same Chinese 
style clothing as the statuesque blonde who had first appeared with 
Kodachi. Bounding forward Kodachi enveloped the boy in a tight hug, 
who returned it wearing a soft smile, she then pulled away and said, "I 
am ever so sorry Ranma darling. Your idiotic father has somehow 
found his way from the location in which you discarded him in and to 
this abode. It appears that we will once again have a great deal of 
explaining to do."
	"Ranma?" said all the Tendos at once.
	"You mean..." said Nabiki slowly.
	"It's the furo guy!" said Akane happily.
	"Thank the Kami," said Soun crying.
	"Oh my," said Kasumi softly.
	Observing all of these reactions at once the pigtailed boy 
grimaced and met the eyes of Kodachi who shrugged as way of an 
answer. Sighing at this he said reluctantly, "I'm Saotome Ranma."
	
	"You're the same girl we saw before?" asked Nabiki  as she 
studied the handsome dark haired boy who was sitting across from her 
at the table. He had Kodachi sitting at his one side and the kangaroo 
at the other. 
	"Yeah," said Ranma with a touch of boredom. "That was me 
all right. Just like this fur covered menace here is the guy your father 
knows as Saotome Genma."
	"Genma?" said Soun with some shock as he studied the 
kangaroo. "That's you? How...?"
	"All will be explained when the hot water arrives. And 
speaking of which..." Kodachi trailed off as she rose to her feet seeing 
Kasumi enter the room with a tea kettle in hand. Accepting the kettle 
from the eldest Tendo sister Kodachi gave her a warm smile then said, 
"Thank you ever so."
	Walking back towards the kangaroo she stood next to it then 
directed her stare to the Tendos who were now all sitting in a row and 
gazing attentively at her. "Observe," said Kodachi plainly as she 
poured the contents of the kettle onto the kangaroo and as a light 
steam filled the air the Tendos watched with wide eyes as the animal 
slowly changed into the figure of a husky man wearing a white gi and 
having wire rim glasses on the bridge of his nose and a strange turban 
of sorts on his head.
	"Genma!" cried Soun as he moved forward. "It is you old 
friend! What's the meaning behind all this?"
	Before Genma could reply Kodachi cut in smoothly while 
returning to her seat at Ranma's side. "All shall be explained quite 
easily if you simply stop shouting and listen to me closely," Kodachi 
informed with a calming smile which seemed to pacify Soun and the 
other Tendos. Seeing this Kodachi continued, "Nearly two months ago 
we three journeyed to China on a quest. Upon arriving there we spoke 
little of the language and only after several... business dealings Ranma 
and I made were we able to obtain a Guide of sorts. We requested to 
gain some training skills native to the region and the Guide led us to the 
accursed training grounds of Jusenkyo wherein lies the pools of 
sorrow."
	Pausing Kodachi formed a wry expression and said, "I myself 
halted at the training provided on the unusual bamboo poles resting 
over the various springs. This was due to my wariness at the given 
name of the training grounds. I am sad to say that this did not affect 
Ranma darling in such a manner and he agreed to spar with his father 
atop the poles. And in battle he did triumph, knocking this fat fool into 
the nearest spring, which happened to be the spring of drowned 
kangaroo. And in his cursed form Saotome-san leapt up and did 
deliver a treacherous kick to Ranma's backside which caused him to 
fall into the spring of drowned female elf. Sadly this occurred so swiftly 
that I did not have time to save Ranma from this fate."
	Stopping in her speech Kodachi suddenly perched on her toes 
and produced her violet ribbon then wrapped it around Genma's 
midsection. In a swift action she yanked the ribbon and sent Genma 
flying backwards and into the koi pond she had seen while walking 
from the dojo back towards the sitting room. Seconds later the soggy 
form of an irritated kangaroo was seen as it hopped out of the pond 
and back into the sitting room.
	Turning back to the Tendos who wore shocked expressions 
Kodachi said, "Cold water is what leads them to transform into their 
accursed states, while hot water brings their natural forms back into 
being."
	As she said this Genma kangaroo grabbed the tea kettle and 
poured the last of the hot water over his head to change back into his 
human form. He shot Kodachi a dirty look and said indignantly, "What 
was that for?" He then shifted his gaze to Ranma. "And you! My own 
son! Why didn't you stop her?"
	Snorting Ranma replied, "Maybe because you deserved it for 
getting me stuck in another engagement. I ain't going along with this 
Pop. You ought to know that by now. I've got my own mind and 
there's no way you're forcing me to marry a complete stranger. I said 
no to this sort of stunt all those times before and I'm gonna say no 
again."
	"All those times before?" repeated Nabiki. "You mean that 
he's done this type of thing more than once?"
	"Oh yeah," began Ranma eagerly as he leaned across the 
table. "At least a billion--"
	"You're exaggerating again!" shouted Genma. He paused to 
solemnly push his wire rim glasses up the bridge of his nose. "I've only 
made five engagements for my boys. That also includes Tendo here." 
He glared at Ranma then added, "And you've only met three of your 
iinazukes, not a billion. I'd say that you're confusing the large amount 
of girls chasing after you with the number that I've enagaged you to."
	Ranma snarled at this and looked ready to attack Genma 
when Kodachi intervened. "Now, now, dearest," she said in soothing 
tones. "This is hardly the time for such things." Violet eyes turned to 
the elder Saotome as Kodachi questioned, "If the Tendos are the 
fourth iinazuke for us to encounter then who is the fifth?"
	Snorting Genma folded his arms across his chest and said, 
"That's none of Ranma's concern. His brother is the one responsible 
for that engagement. Just like he'd be responsible for this one if he 
hadn't gotten lost again."
	"Who cares about all that," said Akane in dismissive tones as 
she looked to Ranma. "Cold water really changes you into a girl elf? 
That sounds so neat!"
	"Thanks," Ranma said with a smile. "It was hard to believe at 
first. But apparently a lot of those magical creatures in the stories really 
existed at some point. I even sort of like changing into my cursed form 
now. As an elf I've got all kinds of cool powers which definitely come 
in handy when it comes to fighting. Changing ain't really that big a deal 
to me anymore, especially since Dachi and me always carry a flask of 
hot water on us for emergencies."
	"Saotome!" roared Soun suddenly as he interrupted this 
conversation. The large form of a demon head hovered over them and 
it shouted, "How dare you go back on our promise and engage your 
sons to other girls?! What of the Master?! You know what will 
become of us if we do not fulfill our promise to him!!"
	"But Tendo!" exclaimed Genma as he cowered slightly. "It isn't 
my fault, I needed food and like the boy said before, none of the 
engagements were valid! We can still fulfill our promise to the Master. 
My son is a boy despite the nature of his curse and he can still marry 
one of your daughters. The promise can be kept after all!"
	Thinking about this Soun slowly went back to his normal state 
and broke into a wide smile then said, "You're perfectly right 
Saotome! There's no reason why we can't go ahead as planned!" 
Walking towards Ranma he slapped the pigtailed boy on the shoulder 
then said, "Well? How about it? These are my three daughters. Akane, 
sixteen; Nabiki, seventeen; and Kasumi, nineteen; pick anyone you 
like and they'll be your new iinazuke."
	"No," said Ranma as he looked up at Soun. "I ain't getting 
engaged to anyone. I don't want a iinazuke."
	Soun turned red faced at this and started to say something 
when Akane groaned at said, "Dad. This is silly! We've already said 
that this engagement idea of yours was ridiculous. Do you seriously 
think that we'd go along with it?" Light brown eyes focused on Ranma 
and she said, "No offense but none of us really like being put in this 
arranged engagement with you. It's just not right, even though you 
seem like a nice enough guy."
	"Don't you mean that it's not right that you would have to give 
up your legions of fans, Akane?" said Nabiki with a smirk. "If you got 
engaged to Ranma there would be no more nonstop dating for you."
	Looking flustered Akane retorted, "I don't date that much 
Nabiki! And besides, this engagement is a stupid idea. You even said 
so yourself."
	"Hey," said Ranma as he interposed between the feuding 
sisters. "I'm in complete agreement here. And there's no reason to 
tease your sister about dating Nabiki. A cute girl like her should have 
lots of dates. It's natural."
	Smiling in triumph Akane stuck her tongue out at Nabiki who 
rolled her hazel eyes. Observing this Kodachi sighed quietly then said, 
"Shall we enterprise to discuss this supposed engagement in a civilized 
manner now? If so I'm sure we shall be able to reach an agreement 
suiting to all of our differing needs and opinions." Turning to Ranma 
she smiled and said, "You speak first my dearest."
	"Okay," said Ranma as his handsome face turned 
contemplative. Scratching his cheek he said, "Mainly what I'm against 
is being forced to marry someone. And more than that it's the fact that 
I don't know any of you girls. I mean... you all seem nice but there ain't 
no way that I'd seriously consider marrying a complete stranger. That's 
pretty much all I have to say about that. Oh yeah... and there's also the 
fact that this engagement somehow seems more legit than the others. I 
dunno why. Maybe because Tendo-san here used to train with Pop 
but I never heard of any Master."
	Soun and Genma exchanged nervous glances at this then 
Genma said, "That's for the best my boy. The Master is not someone 
to be trifled with and as for why you have never seen him... his current 
location is... unknown."
	"That will do," said Kodachi coolly as she shifted her gaze to 
the Tendo sisters. "And what of the sisters three? It would be greatly 
appreciated to hear your opinions on the matter of this expected 
engagement."
	"It's dumb," said Akane with a shrug. "I said it once and I'll say 
it again. Ranma seems like a nice guy but I don't want to marry him."
	"An apt answer," said Kodachi in satisfaction. Turning
to Kasumi she said, "What are your feelings on this offered prospect 
of marriage?"
	"Oh my," said Kasumi, it was not often that she was asked her 
thoughts on matters. "While I do find him very handsome I'm afraid I 
must agree with Ranma about the idea of marrying a complete 
stranger. It just isn't proper."
	Nodding sagely at this Kodachi turned lastly to Nabiki then 
said dryly, "And you?"
	"Ditto," said Nabiki with a shrug. "Kasumi pretty much said it 
all for me. I have to admit I think this Ranma of yours is pretty 
attractive but I don't much bow into the idea of being forced to marry 
anyone."
	"Then we all are in agreement," said Kodachi smiling. "There 
shall be no engagement. Wonderful!" Rising to her feet she looked at 
Ranma then said, "Lets be off Ranma dearest. There is no need to stay 
further."
	"Fine with me," said Ranma as he stood beside Kodachi. "I 
got better things to do than hang around here."
	"NO!!" shouted Soun and Genma together. The two men then 
exchanged surprised glances. Genma was the first to speak after this 
and said, "You can't leave boy. This isn't like all the others. We made 
a solemn oath. A promise to our Master. It isn't something to be taken 
lightly... this... this is on my honor boy. And when have you ever 
known me to make a promise on my honor?"
	Blinking Ranma froze at this statement and the room was silent 
all except for the sound of Soun's sobbing. "He's right," said Ranma as 
he looked to Kodachi. "Pop has never promised anything on his honor 
before. I always figured that was because he didn't have any but..."
	Seeing Ranma's reluctance to leave and sensing perhaps 
something deeper to this engagement as well Kodachi sighed then 
said, "Saotome-san. Tell us why this engagement is of such importance 
and perhaps we shall consider an alternative to dismissing it 
completely."
	"The Master," said Genma heavily with utmost solemnity. "Is 
the most evil martial artist in the known world and if he discovered that 
we did not set two of our children in an engagement as he wished... I 
shudder to think of what would become of us all. And despite his 
sinister ways his wish is not an impossible or slighted one. He merely 
wanted our two styles of the Anything Goes school to merge into one. 
A reasonable request if you think about it."
	Considering this Kodachi turned to Ranma who looked 
thoughtful and said, "Well?"
	"I dunno," said Ranma as he rubbed his jaw. Cobalt eyes met 
violet ones and he asked lowly, "It seems legit. But what do you think 
Dachi?"
	Leaning forward to whisper in his ear Kodachi said, "I feel it 
rings of some truth Ranma darling. Perhaps we might reach a stalemate 
of sorts until we may investigate things further. We were planning to 
reside in this area as we continued the search. Added to that fact there 
is the truth that this is an ample dwelling in which to live and the 
Tendos will happily supply us with free food and board."
	Smiling at this last statement Ranma replied, "You always got 
the big picture in mind. All right... do it."
	Pulling away from Ranma the dark haired gymnast coughed 
then said, "Ranma dearest has decided that he will not immediately 
rescind the promise of his father and Tendo-san but before he shall 
even consider marrying anyone he must first know them better. 
Therefore we would like to ask permission to live in this dwelling so to 
better know the prospective iinazukes. Perhaps in doing so a mutual 
romantic relationship shall come to pass but no vows as to this nature 
are to be made. It is not yet secured and if a romance to seal the 
engagement does not arise we shall depart. Agreed?"
	"Agreed! Agreed!!" shouted Soun. He immediately snapped 
out of his sobbing state and leapt towards Kodachi then began shaking 
her hand rapidly.
	After this was said Akane gave Ranma and Kodachi short 
welcoming hugs and offered to let Kodachi stay in her room before 
she went upstairs to do her regimen of sit-ups. Kasumi in the 
meanwhile was heading towards the kitchen to retrieve the requested 
sake for her father and Genma as she wore a thoughtful expression on 
her face. And Nabiki simply directed her sharp hazel gaze at Kodachi 
and Ranma who were murmuring to each other in low tones.
	Nabiki knew she was going to have to keep a close eye on the 
pair because they definitely had an ulterior motive for going along with 
her father's plans. That much was clear. 
	
	Strolling out onto the verandah Nabiki stood next to Akane 
who was observing the figures of Ranma, who was in his cursed form, 
and Kodachi beating the unconscious figure of Genma kangaroo into 
the ground. They watched this go on for several minutes before Akane 
said, "They have some serious rage control problems."
	"What did he do to deserve all this?" asked Nabiki as she 
watched Genma kangaroo somehow revive and land a good punch to 
Ranma's jaw.
	"I'm not really sure," said Akane in amazement. She was 
gaping at Kodachi who wrapped her violet ribbon around Genma 
kangaroo and then slammed him into the high wall surrounding the 
dojo. "I heard Mister Saotome say something about wanting his share 
of the latest job or something like that. Then Kodachi gave this really 
eerie laugh that freaked out Ranma and the next thing I know they're 
both beating up Saotome-san." Pausing Akane scratched the back of 
her short head of hair and murmured, "This is more painful to watch 
then us stomping St. Hebereke into the ground during last year's 
quarter finals in basketball."
	Rolling her eyes Nabiki drawled, "You don't need to remind 
me Imotochan. I know that the new season is coming up. And have no 
fear... bets are ready on exactly how many jump shots you'll score in 
the first quarter."
	"Well," began Akane thoughtfully while she headed into the 
sitting room to eat the food that Kasumi was bringing in. "Make sure 
that you place it somewhere in the double digits. I plan to be voted 
MVP for the second year in a row."
	"You do that and your precious fan club of rhyming airheads 
will increase tenfold," said Nabiki teasingly.
	Snorting Akane accepted the bowl of miso soup from Kasumi 
then said, "Don't remind me about that. I'm already getting a headache 
imagining what they'll be shouting about in synchronization today."
	"A-k-a-n-e. That's who we want to be!" Nabiki said in 
mocking sing-song tones as she walked into the room and sat next to 
her younger sister. "With thighs of milky white, she's the one everyone 
likes. Gooooo Akane!" After completing this parody of the Furinkan 
High cheerleading squad Nabiki broke out into hysterical laughter.
	"Not funny," grumbled Akane while she sipped her soup. "I 
hate that cheer."
	After Akane said this Ranma and Kodachi approached 
causing Nabiki to note that Genma kangaroo was missing and 
questioned, "You succeed in killing him?"
	Snickering Ranma said, "Nah. No luck with that. I just punted 
him into the stratosphere so he wouldn't try following us to school."
	"School?" questioned Nabiki curiously. "So you're planning on 
attending then?"
	"Certainly," Kodachi said, looking a bit nonplussed at Nabiki's 
surprise. "Ranma darling and I both place great value on the benefits of 
a fine education."
	"Plus it's where we do a lot of our business," Ranma said 
plainly before Kodachi lightly pinched her on the thigh causing her to 
yelp. Coloring a bit she corrected, "Learn to do business I mean. Me 
and Dachi are interested in finance you see and we gotta go to school 
for that. Understand?"
	"Yes," said Nabiki slowly as she carefully studied the pair. "I'm 
beginning to."
	Laughing a bit nervously Ranma met Kodachi's gaze then said 
conversationally, "We have to take care of all the bills and junk 
because my Pop's got such a lazy mind. You see, there's no way that 
he could ever work out a good plan on his own so it's up to us to 
handle things."
	"Indeed," said Kodachi in agreement as she finished the rest of 
Ranma's explanation. "Saotome-san has very little in the way of 
faculties. I find it most puzzling to ponder exactly where your brains 
arrived from my dearest. One could only conclude that his genetics are 
very weak, for they have not adversely affected your eminence. Truly 
you have arrived into an individual of obvious talents."
	Her lips forming a wide 'o' shape Ranma flitted her long 
eyelashes and formed a cutesy pose then said, "Do you really think so 
Dachi? I'm so happy!"
	Accepting the bowl of soup from Kasumi with a low nod 
Kodachi replied dryly, "You will have to endeavor to improve your 
tone quality if you wish to righteously fool the male population of our 
new institution of learning. Remember that the more saccharine your 
voice levels are the more freely they distribute their gifts. That and the 
lessening amounts of clothing you wear. Do not forget that my darling."
	Mulling over this Ranma took her bowl of soup from Kasumi 
then sat next to Kodachi and with her mouth full of food said, "I 
thought I did pretty good. It ain't all that easy pretending to be the sort 
of ditzy girl most guys think they go for. Y'know how stupid they want 
me to sound?" Pausing she slurped up the last of the soup and wiped 
her chin with the long red silk sleeve to her shirt. "Men are pigs. That's 
what I learned most from having this curse. It ain't my fault that elf 
chicks are so hot... but do they care? Nope. They chase after me like 
rabid hounds." Eyeing Kodachi carefully cobalt eyes narrowed and 
Ranma stated bluntly, "We're telling everyone on campus that we're a 
couple this time. I don't want another crazy mob after me, so we stick 
close, got it Dachi? Just put on your usual jealous spiel, okay? For 
both my forms."
	"Very well," said Kodachi as she sighed with exaggerated 
annoyance. "If I must pretend to be acting irrationally jealous over 
anyone romantically it may as well be you Ranma darling. And at times 
spewing that jealous spiel, as you so aptly call it, can be somewhat 
amusing."
	"Aw," drawled Ranma as she moved forward in a lightning fast 
movement as she rested her face only inches from Kodachi's. Her 
breath on the other girl's lips Ranma whispered, "But you like it 
dontcha Dachi? Telling everyone that I belong to you..."
	"Ranma darling," Kodachi said huskily as she wound her 
fingers into the back of Ranma's white-blonde head as to draw the 
other girl's lips closer. 
	"Oh my," the voice of Kasumi broke in and turning their heads 
the couple saw that she was blushing a deep hue of red. Seeing their 
gaze on her she said quickly, "Oh! I'm so sorry... it's just you two 
seem such good friends..."
	"I'd say they're more than that Oneechan," Nabiki said 
sardonically while hazel eyes roved over the almost entwined Kodachi 
and Ranma in curious inspection. Next to her Akane was simply 
gazing at the couple with interest. "No wonder you were so adamant 
about not wanting this engagement Ranma. Have your sights set 
elsewhere, huh?"
	Forming a lewd smile Ranma replied, "Oh yeah. My eyes and 
hands are definitely set elsewhere..." As she said this 
lithe hands spread out eagerly as she grabbed Kodachi's waist only to 
yelp when the other girl lightly slapped her hands.
	"Behave," purred Kodachi as she lightly rubbed the blonde's 
hands. "We should not continue to act so blatantly romantic in front of 
our hosts." Directing her violet eyes to the Tendo sisters said solemnly, 
"As you may have guessed there are some shared affections between 
Ranma dearest and myself. This is yet another reason for his 
opposition to any arranged engagements."
	Kodachi shook her head and said, "That and the simple fact 
that it is barbaric to so thoughtlessly try to control the lives of others as 
our elders are attempting to do to us in this current measure. To say 
the least it is horrendously wrong and we plan on dissolving this forced 
engagement soon as able in hopes that we all might return to our 
normal lives." The dark gymnast paused to study their faces which so 
far all wore neutral expressions. Almost hesitantly Kodachi asked, "Is 
this plan of ours to your acceptance?"
	"Fine with me," said Nabiki. She was relaxing a little in her 
attitude towards the couple. Their first night in the dojo had gone off 
without incident and if their current position was anything to be judged 
by they should be considered allies of sorts. Besides, Nabiki mused, it 
had been a long time since she had met anyone with the level of savvy 
these two seemed to possess. And so she continued, "I'd be grateful if 
you could get rid of this engagement nuisance."
	Smiling softly Kasumi said, "This certainly removes any conflict 
between us, doesn't it? Since we know that Ranma and Kodachi are a 
couple there's no reason to worry about the engagement possibly 
proceeding."
	"True," Nabiki said slowly. "But we shouldn't let Daddy find 
out that they're couple or you know what will happen. It's lucky that 
he's sleeping in late today after spending the night drinking and didn't 
hear any of this."
	"That ain't lucky," snorted Ranma derisively. "Pop probably 
talked him into it. He'll do anything for free booze."
	"As you say it, it is known to be true," said Kodachi comically. 
Resting her violet eyes on Kasumi she studied the eldest Tendo sister 
carefully. "Surely it is a travesty that such a lovely flower must be left 
to care for their sluggish whims. I say now do not fall prone to 
following Saotome-san's wishes. The imbecile deserves naught of your 
attention."
	"Goodness," said Kasumi in surprise. "You do seem to resent 
him a great deal."
	"We got plenty of reason," said Ranma. "He's engaged me off 
to tons of girls, he tries to mooch offa our business, and then there's all 
the times he tried to break up me 'n' Dachi just cause she ain't an 
official iinazuke of mine. So yeah... we resent him some. Pop's a real 
pain sometimes."
	Resting her chin in the palms of her hands Akane smiled 
almost dreamily and said, "You guys make such a kawaii couple. I'm 
glad you're together. There isn't enough love in the world." After she 
said this Akane gave a happy sigh then bounded to her feet. "We 
better get going or we'll be late for school." Looking to Nabiki as she 
put on her backpack and questioned, "Coming Oneechan?"
	"Of course," said Nabiki readily as she rose to her feet and 
gathered her school supplies. "It isn't like I would want to miss the 
brilliant rhyming schemes of your admirers Akane. They are simply so 
talented." 
	"Nabiki," said Akane wearily as she grabbed the basketball 
that had been in the far corner of the room. "No more jokes about the 
cheerleaders. They're only doing what they think is their job... besides, 
it's flattering." Akane turned to look at Ranma and Kodachi, who were 
still in the midst of their revealing embrace. "What about you two? You 
did say that you're going to school. Want to walk with us?"
	"We certainly would Akane," replied Kodachi as she offered a 
charming smile while pulling away from Ranma who looked 
disappointed at this. "Any such assistance at being able to introduce us 
to the particulars of your school would be met with our ample thanks."
	Ranma wore a somewhat grumpy face as a golden glow 
surrounded herself and Kodachi.  Now sitting in a cross-legged 
position Ranma floated behind Kodachi as she wrapped her lithe arms 
loosely around the neck of the dark gymnast who was following 
Akane and Nabiki out the door. In this odd manner Ranma was pulled 
along at a steady pace as she kept her hold on Kodachi.
	"So," Ranma said slowly. "What's this Furinkan high like 
anyway? Think the students there would be freaked out by seeing my 
cursed form on the very first day?"
	"Why do you ask?" said Nabiki curiously, hazel eyes 
humorously taking in the floating elf who was hanging onto Kodachi 
who was walking on a high fence. "You're not planning on changing 
back?"
	"Depends," said Ranma as she shrugged her shoulders. "It 
might not be worth the effort, sometimes I'll change back into a guy 
only to get splashed with cold water a second later. Maybe I'll change 
back when we reach the school but I dunno... don't bother me none 
either way."
	"Well," Nabiki said slowly, looking to see that Akane was 
maintaining a steady pace ahead of them as she dribbled her 
basketball at a rapid pace. "It depends on the amount of admirers my 
little sister will have waiting this morning. If it's the usual number no one 
will probably notice you until you get to homeroom. But after that 
they'll keep track of you for sure. New students who are good looking 
and know martial arts always grab interest at Furinkan." Smirking 
Nabiki drawled, "And you're going to raise plenty of eyebrows if you 
keep flying around like that Ranma. Even in Nerima flying elves are not 
the norm."
	"Oh?" queried Kodachi. "And what, pray tell, is considered 
the norm within this humble district?"
	Shading her hazel eyes Nabiki smiled smugly as if in 
expectation of something then replied, "That."
	Following the direction Nabiki was gazing in Ranma and 
Kodachi observed the front walk to Furinkan high school which was 
lined on either side with what looked to be around a hundred students 
who all wore almost the exact same face of adoration. Several of the 
girls seemed to swoon as Akane stepped a foot onto the campus, 
while a good portion of the boys began drooling.
	Akane didn't seem to notice this as she kept her light brown 
eyes facing steadily forward as she continued to dribble her basketball 
while walking towards the entrance to Furinkan. She stopped 
suddenly and looked at a group of ten girls all wearing identical 
uniforms and eagerly hopeful looks on their pretty faces. There was a 
long pause before Akane ceased the dribbling of her basketball to 
now spin it on her index finger as she faced the girls and said bemused, 
"Go on. It's okay... I know you want to."
	The girls released simultaneous squeals of happiness as they 
bounced up and down. They then cleared their throats then in perfect 
harmony chanted, "Akane everyone loves so much and only she 
everyone wants to touch!"
	After they said this the girls looked expectantly at Akane who 
stopped spinning the basketball on her index finger and said, "Nice 
job. Your rhyming is improving." Now finished, Akane strode towards 
the front entrance to Furinkan and went inside.
	Seconds after Akane entered the building over half of the 
crowd stormed in to follow her and in doing so looked quite like a 
group of occultists. Leaving scarcely any people remaining in the 
school yard. Still standing at the entrance to the Furinkan campus 
Nabiki was gratified to see the puzzled and intrigued looks on Ranma 
and Kodachi's faces.
	"What...?" began Ranma hesitantly.
	"Was that of concern to?" finished Kodachi.
	"Akane's fan club," said Nabiki in dry explanation. "She's 
Furinkan's top athlete and is pretty much responsible for the 
championship seasons of the girls basketball, softball, soccer, 
volleyball, track, and diving team. And these are all the people who 
worship her for it." Nabiki paused a moment to inspect the abandoned 
yard then mused, "But today was a pretty small gathering. Only two 
hundred or so people. She usually has a minimum of four hundred 
people greeting her. It's that damn flu that's going around..."
	Proceeding to walk inside the school Nabiki left the forms of 
Ranma and Kodachi standing at the front entrance with stunned 
expressions on their faces. 

	Wearing their most charming smiles Kodachi and a now male 
Ranma stood in front of their homeroom class which included Akane 
who looked bored as she tossed a softball lazily into the air and caught 
it.
	"All right class," said the Sensei as he looked up briefly from 
the piece of paper he was reading. "It seems we have two new 
students at Furinkan. Meet Kuno Kodachi and Saotome Ranma. 
They've just returned from a long training journey in China so lets all 
give them a warm welcome." The Sensei smiled then said, "Perhaps 
you'd like to tell the class a little about yourselves?"
	"Most assuredly," replied Kodachi smoothly. She snapped her 
violet ribbon into her grasp and began twirling it in a circular motion. 
"While my designated title is Kuno Kodachi, I am also known as the 
black rose, a name which I was given due to the sweetness of my 
nature which mimics the sweet smell of the rose itself. The color black 
being chosen for its rarity amongst all the beauteous blossoms in 
mother nature. As rare as my talents in martial arts rhythmic 
gymnastics which is my chosen athletic sport. I am readily looking 
forward to spending time with the captivating creatures in my present 
company, each of whom share a distinctive bewitching appeal. Those 
of the male persuasion are particularly strong in charm."
	Kodachi paused to eye Ranma slyly and she suddenly diverted 
her ribbon to wrap it around his waist. "A final note, Ranma dearest 
and I are committed to one another in a most satisfying romantic 
companionship. Although I find many of the stout males present 
attractive I am afraid that I yearn for no other than him in the ways of 
love."	
	There was a slight silence as the Sensei blinked and said, "Do 
you have anything to add to that Ranma?"
	"Yeah," said Ranma as he flashed a bright smile. "With so 
many pretty girls around I think I'm gonna like it here at Furinkan. It 
almost makes me wish I was single again but I'm a faithful guy so I'll 
just have to work out all my unfulfilled frustrations by practicing the art. 
Then again, being the best fighter I can be is my duty as the heir to the 
Anything Goes school of martial arts." His cobalt eyes sparkling he 
turned to the Sensei and said, "That's all I gotta to say."
	When he finished the Sensei cleared his throat then said 
slowly, "Thank you both. Please take the empty seats next to Hiroshi 
and Daisuke."
	Following the Sensei's instructions Ranma and Kodachi took 
their seats next to the two boys who'd been indicated to. Immediately 
Hiroshi and Daisuke, along with all the other boys present, scooted 
their desks towards Kodachi. It was a gesture that didn't go unnoticed 
Ranma and Kodachi who were also watching the more subtle 
movement of the girls desks heading closer to Ranma. The only person 
who didn't gravitate towards one out of the couple was Akane who 
was still occupying herself by tossing her softball into the air and 
catching it. Observing the admiring attention they were receiving from 
their fellow students Kodachi and Ranma exchanged satisfied smiles 
while wearing smug expressions. 
	And watching this entire scene the Sensei known as Godai 
Yusaku sighed as he saw two more idols for Furinkan High School 
being made. 

	Walking into the cafeteria Nabiki scanned the crowded 
surroundings until she located the forms of Kodachi and Ranma. They 
were sitting alone and were in the midst of what looked to be an 
intense discussion. What made the couple stand out most was the 
enormous pile of food they had sitting in front of them which they were 
eating at a slow and steady pace. 
	Striding towards them Nabiki slapped her ledger lightly down 
on the surface of their table and said, "Want to tell me why I've gotten 
over a hundred information requests about you two in the past half 
hour alone? What'd you do? Start a riot in homeroom?"
	Proffering a piece of a pork bun to Ranma who happily 
accepted it Kodachi looked from the ledger then to Nabiki and said, 
"We merely introduced ourselves to our classmates. Isn't that right 
Ranma dearest?"
	"Give the lady a prize," drawled Ranma as he flashed a 
winning smile. "Cause she's right on the money." Lifting cobalt eyes he 
smiled at Nabiki. "Dachi's right. All we did is give the usual song and 
dance when you're a new student to our homeroom class. That's all. 
You can ask Akane if you don't believe us. She was there."
	"Why is it," Nabiki drawled as she took a seat next to Ranma. 
"That I don't believe it was as simple as you're making it out to be?"
	Feeding Ranma a spoonful of ice cream Kodachi shrugged. "I 
cannot help that you still feel mistrustful towards us Tendo Nabiki. The 
truth be told all we did was introduce ourselves to the humble students 
of Furinkan. Their interest in us is to be chalked up to plain curiosity."
	Hazel eyes narrowed a notch as Nabiki watched Ranma rip 
off a piece of melon bread and offer it to Kodachi who took in 
between her lips in a sensuous gesture. Despite herself Nabiki felt her 
blood heat at the sight of two such beautiful people being so openly 
affectionate towards each other. Shaking her head Nabiki focused 
back on her task and said, "Whatever you did the student body wants 
to know everything about the two of you. Which leads me as to why 
I'm here." Pausing Nabiki shuffled through her notes and continued, 
"Should I use my normal methods of obtaining information or are you 
both willing to fill out these forms and save me the trouble?"
	Ceasing their eating the couple accepted the pieces of paper 
from Nabiki and studied them carefully. Finally Ranma formed a smirk 
and said, "Pretty detailed stuff Nabiki. But do they really gotta know 
my pants size? I ain't even sure that I know that one..."
	"Waist thirty, inseam thirty-two," said Kodachi immediately 
while wearing a small smile.
	"Heh," chuckled Ranma as he tossed a tiny apple slice at 
Kodachi who easily caught it between her fingers. "How do you know 
that Dachi?"
	"Educated guess," replied Kodachi teasingly as she tossed the 
apple slice into her mouth and munched on it. She averted her violet 
eyes to Nabiki and questioned, "And what benefits are we to reap by 
giving out such private information about our persons to you? Surely 
we deserve remuneration for cooperating in a business endeavor 
focused upon us."
	Her hazel eyes narrowing by another notch Nabiki asked, 
"What do you want?"
	The couple exchanged a serious look for a moment then 
Ranma replied, "We don't know the score about this town or this 
school. It'd be awfully nice to have someone on the inside helping 
us..." Smiling rakishly Ranma said, "We wanna work with you Nabiki. 
It didn't take long to figure out that you're the person to talk to when it 
comes to running schemes at this place."
	"And since we are residing at your home," Kodachi smoothly 
cut in. "It was the natural choice to ally ourselves with you in our 
business plans rather than oppose you in your financial tasks."
	"You want to work for me?" questioned Nabiki a bit dazed at 
this unexpected turn of events. In a few seconds the people she 
considered the greatest threat to her business were offering their 
loyalty to her.
	The couple wore identical frowns and Ranma was the first to 
speak. "No... we didn't say that. We wanna work with you," he 
corrected.
	"The three of us," Kodachi purred, moving sleekly across the 
table to touch Nabiki's chin lightly with her index finger. "Would make 
a magnificent team."
	"So what about it?" asked Ranma, lazily tracing the barest path 
down Nabiki's arm. "Wanna be our partner? We could come up with 
some beautiful scores together..."
	Swallowing the lump in her throat Nabiki shifted her gaze from 
Ranma to Kodachi and found herself drawn in by the intoxicating shine 
located there. "Yes," she said hoarsely. "I think you're right."
	"Wonderful," purred Kodachi as she pulled back. "I'm so 
pleased to be working with such a beauteous figure. Aren't you in 
agreement Ranma darling?"
	"Oh yeah," Ranma said as his fingers retreated from their light 
touch on Nabiki's arm. "In total agreement."
	Snapping out of the dazed state she'd been placed in due to 
the couple's attentions Nabiki blinked then returning to her usual self 
smirked and said, "Well partners of mine this looks to me like the start 
of a beautiful business relationship."
	"I couldn't have said it better..." said Ranma with a smile as he 
took Nabiki's hand and lightly kissed the top of it. He lifted his gaze to 
burn an intense stare into hazel eyes and finished, "Partner."
	Coloring a bit Nabiki reluctantly pulled her hand out of 
Ranma's hold and shifting her eyes to Kodachi she saw that the dark 
gymnast was observing them with fond amusement. Seeing Nabiki's 
surprise Kodachi said, "Do not fret Nabiki dearest. There is little 
cause for me to feel any jealousy towards you for Ranma merely 
acknowledging your allure." Rising smoothly to her feet Kodachi 
stepped forward to extend her hand to Ranma, who was now on his 
feet, and walking away with him she said, "Especially when I most 
completely agree with and share his admiration."
	Glancing backwards at the bewildered Nabiki a smiling 
Ranma called, "See you later partner!"
	"What," began Nabiki numbly as she stared blankly ahead. 
"Have I just gotten myself into?"
	
	When the school day ended Nabiki found Kodachi leaning 
against the large oak tree in the front yard to Furinkan while Ranma 
was hanging upside down on a high tree branch.
	"Hi," Nabiki said. "You didn't have to wait for me."
	"It's no problem," said Ranma cheerfully as he swung back in 
forth at a steady pace. "We wanted to."
	"Correct," said Kodachi with a smile. "We wished to tell you 
that we will be departing on a short errand before returning to the 
dojo. Will you convey this to the others and null any such violent 
reactions Nabiki dearest?"
	"Sure," said Nabiki slowly, flushing a bit from the 'dearest' 
being added to her name. She wondered how Ranma had gotten used 
to all the cute acronyms Kodachi used. He was a fighter just like she 
was but somehow it didn't seem to embarrass him at all. Studying the 
pigtailed boy she wondered about him. Ranma was definitely not like 
any of the guys she had ever met. Not only was he intelligent and 
charming he seemed completely secure in his manhood... despite his 
curse. The admiration she felt for him made Nabiki ponder the 
engagement their Fathers so desperately wanted to arrange. Was there 
any chance for her and Ranma? And what about Kodachi? Was it just 
Nabiki's imagination working overtime or did the gymnast flirt with her 
at lunch? Suddenly she heard Ranma calling to her and Nabiki 
snapped out of her mental wanderings. "What was that Ranma?"
	"I asked where Akane was," repeated Ranma as he swung at 
a fast pace before he suddenly shifted his legs and flipped off the tree 
branch to stand next to Kodachi. 
	"She's at practice," replied Nabiki, gesturing towards the gym. 
"Today it's basketball and volleyball. She'll be in there for awhile so 
there's no need to wait for her."
	"Ah," said Kodachi thoughtfully. "Well we must be making our 
exit to take care of some private business. You will make excuses for 
us, will you not?"
	"Sure," said Nabiki slowly as she watched the couple join 
hands before they stealthily bounded off the grounds. All alone now 
she murmured to herself, "I wonder why they're acting so secretive?"

	Halting in their easy run Ranma and Kodachi stood before an 
abandoned mansion, a sight which stood out very clearly in an 
otherwise normal looking neighborhood. The black haired gymnast 
leapt from the high wall they'd been running on to slowly walk towards 
the rusted wrought iron gates that were locked with heavy chains. 
Touching the gate lightly Kodachi whispered, "Home."
	Approaching quietly from behind Ranma drew his arms 
around her waist and murmured into her ear, "We finally found it 
Dachi. And someday we'll find him too. The both of them. Our 
sources say they're travelling together."
	"Yes," breathed Kodachi, mesmerized as she looked at her 
ancestral estate. Without looking down she produced a metal hammer 
in her grasp and sending it smashing down she broke the locks that 
held the gate shut. Pushing the gates open she once again walked on 
the lawn to the home that she was taken away from so long ago and 
said, "Tatewaki... I have searched not only the scant memories of my 
past but every resource available to find the home in which we once 
dwelled but where must I search to find you? Each time I attempt to 
locate you I return with an empty hand and a broken heart..." Trailing 
off Kodachi looked towards the heavens and questioned, "Where are 
you now my brother? I beg you... please return from whence you 
came."
	
	And at that same moment, in the wilderness of China, the well 
traveled figure of Kuno Tatewaki released an abrupt sneeze before he 
laid his eyes on the cursed training grounds of Jusenkyo.

To be continued... 

All characters in this fanfiction are from Ranma 1/2. This fanfiction was 
inspired by the works of the great goddess Rumiko Takahashi but the 
insanity behind it is purely my own. Okay, this was a draft and nothing
more. I just wanted to get some opinions on this series before I finish
the editing process. This is an alternate universe fanfic so I'm going to 
get a bit crazy with it. I remember when I first posted Switching Heirs 
someone wrote to me saying it was too predictable. That it followed 
the orginal storyline too much and if it's an alt universe fic I shouldn't 
be afraid to change not just one thing but everything. That's the basic 
drive behind this series. All right, enough stupid babbling. A special 
thanks to Jim Robert Bader for his advice and Wade Tritschler for 
allowing me to a part of his Altered Destinies project.

Send comments to: Dreiser1@ix.netcom.com

Author's Dinky Request: If you semi-enjoyed this fic I need prereaders 
for it since it's under heavy revising. So if you're interested please drop 
me an e-mail. Thanks much.

Thanks to Red Death all my fanfics are archived at:
http://www.lvdi.net/~reddeath/dreiser.htm

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