Ranma 1/2

                           Anijza

                          Part One:

                  �As on Earth as in Hell�





                       Nicholas Stone






                        The Suspicion


     Back at the Tendo Dojo, the family called it a night
retiring to their rooms.  Akane lay on her bed casually
reading a magazine while Anijza stood at the dresser mirror
putting her hair up into a bun.  She had yet to put on a
nightgown clad in nothing but her underwear.  Akane cut her
a quick glance.
     �Aren�t you cold, Anijza?� she asked, not wishing to
sound like she was bothered.
     Anijza stopped gazing back through her reflection.
�No.  It�s really kind of warm right now.�
     Warm, thought Akane?  A breeze ruffled the limbs of the
trees outside the window making her wonder about the
climates in Korea.  This girl must really come from a harsh
environment; Akane figured it had something to do with the
excitement Anijza projected.
     Reflecting back upon Ucchan�s and their conversation
about fianc�s, Akane sat up closing the magazine.  �Anijza,�
she called.
     Anijza was just pulling a nightgown down over her head,
turning as she shook it into place.  �Yes, Akane?�
     �You said something about having a fianc� back in
Korea.  Do you have a picture of him?�
     Anijza acted like she was not ready for such a
question.  Akane moved to the edge of her bed leaning
towards her waiting for some sort of reply.  Finally, the
girl blinked.
     �Ah� no I do not think I do,� Anijza answered.
     �You have a man waiting for you back home and you don�t
carry a picture of him with you?�
     �Err� I suppose you have one of Ranma?�
     Bitch, thought Akane knowing Anijza made a good point.
�You got me there,� she said.  Silence passed between them
before Akane continued with her cross-examination.  �He has
a name?�
     �Uhm� Chiung-Hee.�
     �Chiung-Hee?�
     Anijza nodded.  �He is supposed to be my husband once I
return to my homeland.�
     �Hmm,� sounded Akane, leaning back.  �Lucky fellow this
Chiung-Hee.�
     �Thank you for the compliment.�
     It wasn�t meant to be, but Akane let the topic go.  At
least for the moment Ranma appeared out of Anijza�s
interest.  So why was she feeling so upset, and what was the
reason behind all of her attention to him?  Maybe fear?
After all, Anijza was far away from home and Ranma being the
first friendly face to greet her became someone she could
trust as a protector.
     �
     �
     �
     Please.
     Meanwhile Anijza sensed Akane�s suspicions, knowing
that her interference would hinder progress.  Somehow she
had to get her out of the way if but for a short time to
complete the plans she had made.  Anijza crawled into her
bed and after adjusting the pillow, turned onto one side
gazing at Akane.
     �Are you jealous of me, Akane?�
     Shocked by the question, Akane�s jaw sagged open.  �E-E-
excuse me?�
     Anijza pressed a timid hand to her lips.  �I�m sorry,�
she apologized, �I just sense you are upset with me for
being so close to Ranma.�
     Tension tugged at Akane�s temples; words of anger
dancing upon her lips.  No, it would not be right, she
thought.  After all, she is a guest and this could just be
the norm for her.
     �I will admit you suddenly taken with him has kind of
irked me,� said Akane, lying onto one side.  �Ranma is in
theory supposed to be engaged to me so I guess I should feel
some concerns about that.�
     �He will make such a good husband,� declared Anijza.
     Her comment drew a wry look from Akane; not sure if she
meant for it to be her or not.
     �Why don�t we get some sleep,� suggested Akane.  �Big
day in school tomorrow.�
     Anijza agreed and Akane reached over to the lamp.
�Good night,� she said as she turned out the light.
     �Goodnight, Akane Tendo.  Sleep well.�
     Akane turned over onto her back and drew in a deep
sigh.  She thought about the day and this girl who had so
far come close to disrupting her relationship with Ranma.
That knowing sense of foreboding dread, that something bad
was going to happen filled her, and she looked over only to
find Anijza asleep.
     Akane stared at her then chuckled low to herself.  My
imagination, she thought turning over�

                          * * * * *

Monday
     {Anijza�.}
     Anijza�s eyes snapped open hearing the light familiar
call of her voice in the air.  It was the Master, and she
need to respond to his beckoning.  Sitting up, she glanced
over at the clock noting the time.  It was two in the
morning the Dojo deathly silent.  Akane�s lay still in her
bed; Anijza quietly folding back the covers.  She stepped
into her house slippers and carefully tiptoed to the door.
     It let out a low creak and Anijza grimaced, pausing to
look back over at Akane.  She remained in her position much
to Anijza�s relief.  Anijza carefully slipped through the
opening.
     {Anijza,} called the voice again.  She followed it down
the hallway to the bathroom and went inside.
     �I am here, Master,� whispered Anijza facing the mirror
on the wall.
     The mirror ripped like a pool of liquid mercury then
the edges took on a dim blue glow.
     {We have need to talk, Anijza,} came the voice from the
mirror.
     The tone of the words sent a shudder though Anijza.
�Have I, have I done something wrong, M-master?�
     {Yes.}
     Without warning Anijza�s legs suddenly felt weak and
feebleness overtook her body.  She let out a light moan,
dropping to her knees unable to stand.
     {You disappoint me, little one,} continued the voice,
{I expected better.}
     Anijza gasped desperately reaching out to the mirror.
Her eyes filled with horror seeing the wrinkled skin sagging
from her gaunt limbs.  �No,� she creaked in a raspy voice.
�Master� what have I done?�
     {You almost took innocent lives today, Anijza.  Lives
not meant for our consumption.}
     �I-I-I am sorry, M-m-master,� she replied, remembering
her attempt on Akane�s life.
     {Why, little one?  You know that we are not allowed to
take those not of our kiln.}
     �She is� is interfering with my plans, master.�
     {And the other?}
     Anijza had no answer for Mousse.  She bowed her head to
the floor, shuddering uncontrollably.
     {Sloppy, Anijza.  I trust you will remember this
reminder of our laws?}
     �Yes, yes milord.�
     As sudden as it came, Anijza returned to normal, but
she remained on the floor waiting for more of her master�s
words.
     {So this new consort you have selected is not without
ties?}
     She looked up.  �There are a few others who would have
him as their own, but I will prevail over them, my master.�
     {Hmm.  Maybe you should look elsewhere, Anijza.  I
sense trouble on this plain.  Its very essence reeks of ill
tidings.}
     �No!�  Anijza quickly sat up.  �Ranma Saotome has long
been my desire, milord, and I will have him!  No silly
tomboy will prevent me from succeeding.�
     {Ah, so this other female has drawn out the jealousy in
you, eh?  Interesting.}
     A teasing chuckle taunted Anijza, drifting away into
foreboding silence.
     {Your time is short, little one.  You must secure your
consort and bring him back in time for the ceremony.}
     �I will, milord.  It should not take long to complete.�
     {Really?  Tell me, what do you have in store for this
Ranma Saotome�}

                          * * * * *

     But Anijza was very wrong about not awakening Akane.
     She heard the slight creak of the door, waiting until
their new guest had stepped out then slowly rolled over.
Anijza�s steps faded down the hallway and for a moment Akane
thought she was just going to use the bathroom.  There came
an odd sound though, a slight rush of wind that seemed to be
calling Anijza�s name.  It did not sound like there was a
storm outside, and for some strange reason Akane could not
shake this feeling that there was more going on.
     A woman�s curiosity perhaps?
     Maybe, but Akane felt she should go and see what Anijza
was doing up so early in the morning.
     Slipping into her robe, Akane carefully peeked out the
door, and then started down the hall towards the bathroom.
She could see the door, and there was an odd bluish-white
glow coming from bottom.
     I don�t remember us having a nightlight in there?
     Several steps away, Akane suddenly stopped hearing what
she thought were voices coming from the bathroom.  They were
hushed voices, one definitely Anijza�s, but the other
sounded rather odd almost menacing in its tone.  She crept
closer, the voices becoming clearer to her ears.
     {� and there are to be no more attempts of killing
anyone,} she thought she heard the strange voice say.
     �I understand, my master.�
     Master?  Who was Anijza talking too?
     {Bring your consort by the neigh hour, little-one.  I
am ravenous and desire the taste of a fresh soul.}
     Akane�s blood ran cold from the words she just heard.
A fresh soul?  Whose soul, and what was this girl after?
She took another step closer, her foot coming down on one of
the loose floorboards.
     Creak!
     In the bathroom, Anijza looked back towards the door
upon hearing the sound.  She arched a brow pausing to see if
it would repeat again.  It was deathly silent, but her
suspicions were aroused.
     �My master, I must go,� she said.
     {Agreed.  I will check up on you in the near future,
Anijza.}
     The glow faded leaving Anijza in the dark of the night.
Quietly, she went back to Akane�s room and went in, stopping
for a brief moment at the doorway to gaze about the room.
Nothing appeared different; Akane still huddled in her bed
asleep.  It might have been this Dojo settling, thought
Anijza, climbing back into her bed.  She pulled the covers
up, pausing to give Akane one last look before lying down.
     Over in her bed, Akane�s fear stricken mind held her
tense as the terrifying words echoed in her head.
     A fresh soul� Ranma?

                          * * * * *

     The remaining hours of sleep did not pass well for
Akane.  All she could dream about was Ranma and Anijza
together, going away leaving her alone in a murky darkness.
She tried to drive the images away, but yet they would
return much stronger.  The dim buzz from her alarm clock
roused her from sleep and she opened her eyes.
     Taking a deep breath, Akane sat up yawning while she
stretched her arms wide.  A glance over at the clock told
her it was seven in the morning, and then she froze
realizing another fact.
     Anijza was not in her bed.
     The sheet was still in mid-air as Akane darted out of
her room.  She ran down to the bathroom and found the door
locked. �Ranma!� she called, knocking desperately on it.  It
opened, but Nabiki stood there her mouth full of toothpaste.
     �Afkannee!  Waift yoruf turn!� she said, shutting the
door in her face.
     Frantically, Akane dashed back down the hall to the
stairs.  She came around the corner and stopped.  �Ranma!�
she called again.
     �Yo.�
     Spinning around, Akane spotted Ranma leaning from
around the partition of the dining room.  �Ranma!� she
cried, sprinting over to him.
     Ranma was shocked and bewildered all in one moment as
Akane placed him in a firm bear hug.  He did not mind, in
fact this was a pleasant change from their normal morning
ritual of hurried bickering.  Gently pulling her away, he
smiled.
     �Uh, good morning to you too, Akane.�
     �Oh Ranma, I thought you had left me!  I thought you
had been taken away by that�.�
     A flick of red hair made Akane pause.  Ranma pushed the
partition further back allowing her to see Anijza seated
next to him holding a bowl of rice and fried eggs in her
hands. She was dressed in a schoolgirl�s blue sailor outfit
with white piping, a kerchief of red tied about her collar.
Anijza stared at her, one brow slowly arching up.
     �By who, Akane?� she asked in a tone much more mature
than what they had heard before.
     Akane took a light swallow trying to gather her words.
     �Anijza,� she gasped low.
     Anijza tipped her head slightly to one side waiting for
Akane to finish her sentence.
     �Oh you thought Anijza and I had already left for
school,� Ranma suddenly said.
     A break, Akane nodding in agreement.
     Ranma chuckled.  �Come on, Akane.  You know I wouldn�t
do that.�  He looked her over and frowned.  �Might have to
though if you�re not even ready to go.  Wouldn�t want Anijza
here to start school with a bad image.�
     The eyes of the two girls were locked on each other,
both trying to figure out what the other was thinking.
Anijza suddenly smiled, shifting back into her innocent
roll.
     �Oh no, Ranma-chan!  I would not want the teachers
angry with me on my first day!�
     �Ya�see, Akane.  You�ve gotten Anijza all upset now.�
     Akane pressed her lips together into a thin line,
struggling to fight back her anger.  From the kitchen,
Kasumi walked in carrying the rest of the morning meal.  She
took one look at Akane and frowned.
     �Akane, if you are going to eat and get to school on
time then you had better go upstairs and get cleaned up,�
she said.
     Akane stood up, hesitated, and then knelt back down
again.  �Ranma, don�t leave without me,� she said.
     �That might not be�.�
     �Please, Ranma.  Don�t leave without me.�
     Ranma found Akane�s manner odd, but slowly nodded his
head.  �Ten minutes?� he asked.
     �I�ll be back,� replied Akane.
     She stood up and shot Anijza a sharp look before
hurrying back to the stairs.
     �Gee, what�s eating her?� asked Ranma.
     �I don�t know,� Kasumi said, wondering the same thing.
     Anijza hid her growing annoyance from the two, steadily
consuming her breakfast.  �Bad dreams?� she suggested,
thinking how to eliminate her interference in the coming
days.
     Ranma shrugged.  �That, or just a hint of jealousy?�
     �Ranma, behave,� said Kasumi, laughing at the notion.
     Anijza chuckled lightly, playing along with his joke.
�Who knows,� she said, grinning deviously.  �Who knows��

                          * * * * *

Nekohatten, Nerima Chinatown;

     Mousse busied himself with the morning chores careful
to stay out of harms way as he placed several chairs on the
floor.  Around him, the furious shriek of anger filled the
air as Shampoo ranted uncontrollably about the restaurant;
Cologne perched on the counter calmly watching her.
     Another napkin holder sailed through the air, Mousse
catching it without pause.
     �Ah, I needed that,� he said placing it down a table.
     �So who is girl!!!?� screamed Shampoo, wielding two
chairs menacingly in her hands.
     �Like I said, Shampoo.  She�s an exchange student here
to finish her studies.�
     Another blood curdling cry filled the air.  The two
chairs sailed across the restaurant.
     �And now she stay with Ranma while Shampoo here
working!  I kill this, this�.�
     �Anijza,� finished Mousse while catching the chairs
effortlessly.
     �Whatever!�
     Cologne finally decided to act before her great
granddaughter managed to destroy the room.  �Shampoo!� she
called bringing her around.  �Stop this tantrum.  It will
get you nowhere.�
     Shampoo glared at her great grandmother, chest heaving.
The old sage�s steady glare slowly settled her and she
finally let out a huff flopping tiredly into a chair.
     �That�s better,� said Cologne, bounding over to her.
     �But great grandma, what we do?  Husband fooling around
with foreign girl.�
     �And they seemed to be getting along quite well I may
add,� commented Mousse.
     �Hush you!� she snapped.  �You picked a fine time to
inform us of this problem.�
     Mousse shrugged.  �It got busy yesterday, and you
didn�t seem to want to talk after I told you about the near
accident I had.�
     �Carelessness,� growled Cologne, cutting him a sharp
look.  �You are lucky that company is going to replace your
bike.�
     �To hell with bike!� shouted Shampoo, shooting to her
feet.  �What about Ranma?�
     Cologne thought a moment.  �Hmm.  An exchange student,
eh?  We will have to go and see this �Anijza� and determine
how much of a problem she really is.�
     At the far corner Mousse was busy gathering up extra
chairs and trays, stacking them all together.  He smirked a
the notion of more mayhem this would no doubt cause them,
but the old crone would surely smack him around for even
suggesting they forget about it.  Hefting the pile, Mousse
started heading for the back room.
     �Well she can�t be all that bad,� he said as he passed
them, �From what Akane told me, she drove that old goat
Happosai out of the Dojo.�
     Thump!
     Mousse came to an abrupt stop.  He thought he had hit
the counter, but when he turned to look it was only
Cologne�s staff.  She stood staring up at him, a look of
wonder in her eyes.
     �Put those down, Mousse,� she told him, and he set the
stack aside.  �You say this girl drove Happosai away?�
     �That�s what Akane said.�
     �Is this girl that ugly?�
     �No.  In fact she�s not a bad looking girl at all.�
     That struck Cologne as odd.  Happosai running from the
sight of a pretty girl?  Without a word she bounded over to
the phone and began dialing a number.  Mousse and Shampoo
traded looks confused by their mentor�s sudden change and
actions.
     �Hello, Kasumi,� said Cologne.  �Uh, I was wondering is
Happosai is around?  I need to speak to him� Hm?  You don�t
say?  Haven�t seen him since yesterday?  Aha, yes� I see� I
see.  Well if he does show up, could you tell him I I�m
looking for him?  Okay, thank you.  Good-bye.�
     She hung up the receiver and returned to her two
charges.  The wrinkles on Cologne�s forehead folded together
as she went into deep thought.  She let out a hum and looked
up.
     �Happosai has not returned,� she told them.
     �Is good,� replied Shampoo, �now Shampoo can hang up
underwear outside with no worry.�
     �Hush yourself, child!� snapped Cologne.  She thought
some more then cut her eyes over to Mousse.
     �Mousse� you�re fired,� she said.
     �What!� he cried, staggering back.  �But, but, Cologne!
What have I done?  Why are you doing this too me?�
     �Because I have another job for you.�
     �Huh?�
     Cologne jumped up onto the end of her staff, balancing
before him.  �You are going to stay at the Tendo Dojo for a
while.�
     Mousse shook his head not sure of what he just heard
her say.
     �I am?�
     �Yes you are.�
     He paused.  �Why?�
     �Because I want somebody to keep an eye on things in
there while I�m gone.�
     Shampoo spoke up.  �Gone?  Where great grand-ma going?�
she asked surprised by Cologne�s decision.
     �Shampoo, you will continue to keep the restaurant
open,� Cologne said to her.  �Hire some temporary help if
you must.�
     The Amazon woman slumped down into a chair, stunned.
     �Uh, Cologne.  How am I supposed to get the Tendo�s to
let me stay at their Dojo?� asked Mousse.
     �You seem to be resourceful.  I�m sure you will figure
out a way.�
     Shampoo tapped her great grandmother lightly on the
shoulder.  �Where you go, Great grand-ma?� she asked again.
     �I�m going to go find Happosai,� she replied.
     �Why?� asked Mousse.
     �Because something is wrong over at the Tendo home, and
it has something to do with this �Anijza�.�
     �If Great grand-ma think she bad thing, why we not go
and face her?� said Shampoo.
     �Because it is not wise to confront trouble without
first finding out what it is you are up against.�
     �And you think Happosai can tell us what it is, eh?�
guessed Mousse.
     Cologne said nothing, trying to formulate a plan of
search for the elusive demented old man.
     �Mousse, get going,� she finally said.
     �Now?�
     �No, yesterday!  Now get moving!�
     Mousse scurried off to gather his things.
     �I�ll be back shortly,� Cologne said.
     Shampoo watched her in stunned silence as Cologne went
to the front door.  The elderly sage paused, turning her
head back.  �And don�t do anything stupid,� she warned.
     Cologne bounded out leaving Shampoo speechless.  She
gazed around the restaurant not knowing what to do first
then stood up.
     �This mean nothing but trouble,� muttered Shampoo.

                          * * * * *

     ��and the cosign of the tangent of the square root will
bisect point X with a value of three to the power of ten.�
     Ranma sat staring up at the blackboard in utter
amazement, lost in the myriad of equations and figures
written all over it.  Math; Upper Level Calculus to be
precise, it was more like cryptology as far as he was
concerned.
     Oh not everything was beyond him, he wasn�t doing that
bad in class, however; he needed to pass or else suffer
another year as a sophomore while the rest of his friends
advanced into the next level.
     �Now the area of this quadrant must be calculated using
William�s Law of Functions��
     I�m doomed.
     The teacher�s voice started fading into a low buzz as
Ranma�s worried mind began playing out scenarios in his
head.  He chanced a look over at Akane seated a few rows off
to his left and found her busy taking notes.  A stellar
student, he thought feeling slightly jealous of Akane�s
skill with numbers.  How come I can�t seem to get the hang
of this?
     A tap on his shoulder brought him around.  Anijza gazed
at him and he flinched.  He had forgotten about her, but
then again it should not have come as a surprise since all
but one of her classes coincided with his.  It could be luck
then again it seemed strange that they had the exact same
class schedule, except for Physical Ed.
     �Ranma-chan,� whispered Anijza, �Why do you seem so
distressed?�
     That �chan� thing was bound to get him in trouble with
Akane; Ranma leaned back.
     �Because I can�t follow what the teacher�s saying,� he
said.
     Anijza paused her eyes blinking for a second then she
raised a hand.  �Excuse me Sensei,� she called out to the
teacher.  �Sensei� that is right isn�t it, Ranma-chan?�
     �Anijza, what are you doing?� replied Ranma, but he was
too late.
     The teacher turned around.  �Yes, Miss Kwong?�
     �Uh, could you slow down?  Ranma-chan is having a hard
time keeping up with your primitive description of the Time-
Space Continuum and the inaccuracies and flaws delineated by
the out dated theories contained there in.�
     Time seemed to stop in the classroom, stunned looks,
mouths gapping open in shock appearing on the students
around them.  The teacher himself appeared caught off guard
for a moment.  Ranma grimaced, turning around pausing
briefly at the expression Akane held before lowering his
head to his desk.
     �What did you say, Miss Kwong?� asked the teacher.
     �You are talking about Spectral Plain Tranversment and
Alter Dimensional Travel, right?�
     Another long pause followed.
     �Did you hear what this girl just said?� said one of
the girls across the classroom.
     �Yeah,� answered one of the guys.  �Sounded like
Gosunkugi.�
     The teacher paused again.  Pulling off his glasses, he
rubbed the bridge of his nose and glanced at the blackboard.
�Miss Kwong.  I thought I was covering advanced trigonomic
functions and portions of Eaton�s Laws of Computations.�
     Anijza frowned.  She squinted at the board looking over
the formulas and writings.  �Oh� that too,� she finally
said.  �Anyway, Ranma-chan is still having a hard time
following you.�
     �Ranma-chan?� whispered one of Akane�s friends to her.
The scowl that formed drew deep on her face.
     �Mister Saotome, is this true?� asked the teacher.
     Ranma peered up from beneath his arms.  �Uh, yeah,� he
answered.
     The Teacher let out a hum.  �That concerns me in light
of your standing grades.  Maybe I should assign you a
tutor.�
     �A tutor!� exclaimed Ranma, sitting up straight.
     �He will not need one,� said Anijza much to everyone�s
surprise.  �I will help him.�
     �What?� Akane blurted out before she could cover her
mouth.
     A smile came to Anijza�s lips, gazing down at Ranma�s
surprised look.
     The Teacher cleared his throat.  �That is noble of you,
Miss Kwong.  However; you are a guest here and I do not
think such a� difficult burden should be placed upon your
shoulders.�
     �It will be my pleasure, Sensei.  In fact, I guarantee
Ranma-chan will have the highest score on this final exam
you are planning.�
     Anijza�s statement literally knocked the other students
out of their seats.  Ranma�s mind reeled fearing the
consequences of her words.  �I-I-I will?� he stammered.
     �He�ll do what?� Akane added, just as shocked as he
was.
     �And if he does not,� continued Anijza, �You may set
him back.�
     Crash!
     Ranma sprawled out in the aisle shuddering
uncontrollably.
     Akane shot up out of her seat.  �Anijza!� she shouted,
but the girl waved her off.
     �Deal, Sensei?� said Anijza.
     Ranma�s teacher could not believe his ears.  He rubbed
his chin thinking a moment before responding.  �That is kind
of harsh�, but I will take up the challenge!�
     Ranma moaned.
     Unfazed, Anijza knelt down next to him.  �How long do I
have?� she asked as she helped him to sit up.
     �Three days, Miss Kwong.�
     With Anijza�s help Ranma pushed himself back into his
seat, expression lost.
     �Uh, sensei!� Akane desperately called out.  �You
really can�t be taking her word especially when it�s not her
position to decide such a thing!�
     �True,� replied the Teacher.  He looked over at Ranma.
�Mister Saotome?�
     Tension mounted, Ranma�s classmates waiting for Ranma
to respond.  He grimaced, taking a glance around the room.
     �Anijza?� he said staring up at her.
     She remained calm, almost to calm, observed Akane.
What was this witch trying to do?
     Anijza leaned close to Ranma�s ear.  �Trust me,� she
whispered, drawing back.
     A flicker in her eyes made Ranma pause.  He did not
know why, but he found himself going along with her.
     �Okay,� he answered.  Several gasp and murmurs quickly
followed.
     �Excellent,� said his teacher, grinning deviously.  �I
do hope you will be taking better notes, and I�ll slow down
just for you.�
     �� thanks,� replied Ranma.
     Akane could not believe what Ranma had just committed
himself to.  There were times to be bold, and then there
were times to be humble.  Whatever it was made him go along
with Anijza�s dare, but he surely was not that stupid.
     She sat down as the teacher continued his lecture too
bewildered now to really concentrate on what was being said.
Slowly she looked over at Ranma, but he appeared lost, and
then her gaze drifted back to Anijza.  The redhead flinched
and turned matching Akane�s gaze. Her eyes narrowed
slightly, an arrogant leer lightly creasing her lips.
Chills flushed Akane�s blood, chills that made her quickly
look away.
     Oh Ranma what have you gotten yourself into now, she
thought, dreading what was going to happen�

                          * * * * *

     Physical Ed finally arrived and Akane was more than
ready to release all of the tension built up inside her.
Today the girls class was indoors playing one of her
favorite sports; basketball.  Quickly changing, Akane rushed
out onto the court ready to take on whatever team her side
was to oppose.
     The phys-ed teacher blew her whistle forming the class
into ranks for their warm up sessions.  �Toe touches!
Ready, begin!� she said.
     The class began their routine, counting together with
each repetition.  To Akane, this felt good and long over
due.  She tried to force away all of the things that had
happened earlier in the day, especially the incident in her
math class.  That reminded her of Anijza, and with the
completion of the warm-up, she paused to regard her
involuntary roommate standing in the row ahead.
     A smirk, the blasts from the teachers whistle breaking
her gaze.
     �Okay!  Time to separate into teams.  Ukyo, Natsumi,
you will captain each team.  The rest line up!�
     �Who chooses first?� asked Ukyo.
     �We�ll toss a coin.�
     The girl named Natsumi let out a whine.  �I want Akane
on my team.  Last time we got beat by her.�
     It was no secret that the best female basketball player
in the school was Akane Tendo.  It suited her tomboy
attitude excelling at every sport she entered; Akane beamed
with pride at her reputation.  The light quickly dimmed at
the next comment.
     �What�s so special about Akane?� Anijza asked aloud.
     Jaws sagged, heads turning with surprise towards her.
Anijza stared innocently back at them.
     �Oh yes,� said Ukyo, �You don�t know anything about
�Supergirl� Akane.�
     �Hey!� shouted Akane.
     Ukyo laughed.  �Seriously, Anijza, Akane is the best
basketball player here.�
     A brow twitched, Anijza�s eyes uncharacteristically
cutting over at Akane.  She drew slightly back giving her a
quick once over.
     �I don�t think so,� she finally said.
     After the girls picked themselves up from the floor,
they stared at Anijza trying to comprehend the unbelievable
statement they just heard.  Here was some girl from across
the sea daring to talk down about someone she never even
played against, yet alone hardly knew at all.
     �Anijza,� said Ukyo.  �Listen, this is your first day
here, so let me tell you something about Akane.  She�s
rough, she�s tough, and she doesn�t take any stuff from
anyone.  I know, trust me.�
     Anijza looked briefly over at Akane.  �I can take her,�
she said to Ukyo.
     That was enough for Akane.  She walked up to Anijza
sparks latterly rippling about her head stung by the bold
statements from her.  Planting her fist on her hips, Akane
glared hard at Anijza.
     �And I suppose you play basketball at your high school
too?� she asked.
     �I have some experience.�
     The tension mounted, and then Akane took a few steps
back.  �Ball!� she shouted, and one of the girls passed a
basketball to her.  With a steady dribble, Akane continued
to stare at Anijza.
     �You, me, one-on-one,� she said, �First ten points
wins.�
     �Are you sure?� asked Anijza.
     �Oh yes.  I am sure.�
     �Okay,� Anijza answered brightly.
     Akane tossed her the basketball.  �I�ll take the far
court and I�ll even let you to bring it out first.�
     Ukyo tugged lightly on their teacher�s shirt.  �Are you
going to allow this?�
     �Sure.  Nothing wrong with a little competition.�
     �Akane will kill her!�
     �Such are the lessons in life.�
     The teacher blew her whistle and the rest of the class
cleared the courts.  Akane rubbed her palms together, eyes
set in a firm gaze upon Anijza.  Meanwhile Ukyo waited to
see what the newcomer would do.  As she watched, Anijza�s
demeanor changed from quiet and innocent, to one of
determination.
     The whistle blew again and Akane smiled beckoning
Anijza to come at her.  Slowly she did, the basketballs
steady beat prevailing above the silence from the class.
Akane dipped slightly into a crouch concentrating on the
ball as she moved up to block Anijza�s approach.  A shift,
Anijza switching from right to left moving steadily in that
direction with Akane matching her steps.
     Suddenly, Anijza made her break, a quick step back
before driving again.  Akane was right with her, arms up and
out covering any quick clear shots Anijza might make.
Another turn then a pause and Anijza backed up looking for
an opening.  Akane thought she had her then expecting an
easy pick and steal, but when she went for the ball she met
nothing but air as Anijza became a blur rolling nimbly
around her.  It was over in a matter of seconds, a smooth
lay-up sinking the ball though the hoop without a sound.
     Gasps sounded, every eye wide by the move and easy
score.
     �Two,� quipped Anijza backpedaling past a shocked
Akane.
     Akane stood still as a tree frozen in her lunging
position.  After a moment she stood upright and walked
slowly over to the end of the court.  One of the girls
tossed her the basketball, and Akane faced her opponent.
Anijza stood at the center of the court waiting for Akane
with a stance of smug pride, rocking lightly from side to
side, hands on her hips beaming haughtily.
     Anger boiled up in Akane�s temples and she started
dribbling the ball across the court.  Anijza stopped rocking
and leaned forwards arms held out in a ready position as she
came.  A short stop; Akane suddenly dashed left forcing
Anijza to back up then interpose herself before she could
attempt a shot.  That was just what Akane wanted her to do,
and with another sharp turn darted around ready to complete
the perfect lay-up.
     At least that was what she thought.
     A flash of bright red hair was the only indication
Akane had that Anijza struck.  By the time Akane�s shoes hit
the court; Anijza was already at the other end dunking the
ball though the unguarded hoop.  Ukyo could not believe what
she just saw, rubbing her eyes; a move mimicked by several
of the girls in the class, amazed by the speed and agility
Anijza demonstrated.
     The basketball bounced to a stop against the wall and
Anijza strode calmly back to her side of the court and the
now astonished Akane.  �Four,� she said walking past without
pause.
     Akane whirled and Ukyo thought the two would fight
right then and there, but Akane drew in a deep breath and
headed briskly back over to her side of the court for the
ball.  She snatched it from the floor and faced Anijza
again, expression drawn into a vicious scowl of fury.
     Unfazed, Anijza said, �You better not keep that look up
to long.  It might extend those wrinkles already forming,�
and then broke out into a laugh.
     On came Akane, determined now to show up this arrogant
newcomer and teach her some manners.  She faked right then
turning her back to Anijza, began making her way closer to
the top of the key.  Anijza stayed right with her, arms up
and out preventing any clear shot she might try to take.
Suddenly, Akane broke attempting to come around Anijza�s
left with a lay-up.  Anijza followed at first then drew away
thinking Akane would come back around the other way for a
free shot.
     That was not the case, and as Anijza went to block her,
Akane spun smoothly in place executing a perfect hook shot
over her head.  The basketball passed through the hoop with
a light hiss and the girls let out a cheer, clapping loudly.
     Anijza stared up at the basket, and then at Akane.
�Nice,� she said.
     �No, two points,� snapped Akane as she backed away
towards her side of the court.
     The contest resumed, Anijza driving down the court.  �I
hope you�re ready, Akane,� said Anijza as she came.
     �Bring it on, you bitch!� shouted Akane.
     �Akane!� yelled her teacher.  She apologized but kept
her eyes locked on Anijza and the basketball dribbling
towards her.
     Again, Anijza was but a blur, whisking past Akane
before she could get a chance to effectively prevent her
from shooting.  The score was now six to two.
     Akane stood gripping the basketball furiously between
her hands, body shaking unable to comprehend what was
happening.  Sweat ran down her face and arms and she was
breathing heavily from all of her exertions.  I can�t be
getting beat by this, this, girl, thought Akane!
     Her reaction drew the attention of the teacher.
�Akane,� she called out.  Akane looked back over one
shoulder.  �Maybe you should concede.�
     �What?� cried Akane.  An irritating laugh came from the
opposite end of the court; Anijza down on one knee humored
by her reaction.
     �No, Sensei!� she said.  �I�m going to beat this
intruder and make her eat her words!�
     �Akane,� Ukyo called out, she too concerned by the
developments, but Akane would hear none of it.
     �Get up,� she shouted at Anijza as she dribbled towards
her.
     �Oh, if I must,� replied Anijza.
     The contest renewed, neither of the two women holding
back as they moved around the court.  They appeared at an
impasse with Akane paused, her back to Anijza rethinking her
options.  Ukyo could see the hard look of determination in
Akane�s eyes, teeth grit tight growling low.  Anijza
meanwhile held her ground behind Akane waiting for her to
make a move.  She appeared not to be worried, steadily
staring at Akane�s back instead of concentrating on the
ball.  Odd, thought Ukyo.  It was as if she could sense
where it was, moreover her features and the way she moved
made her think this one hid more than just natural skill
from them.
     Suddenly Akane broke left, and then came to an abrupt
halt gym shoes screeching loudly as Anijza ran past.  The
surprise was complete and Akane darted behind her to
complete a clean lay up with ease.
     The score: six to four.
     �Eat that,� said Akane backing away to face Anijza�s
next assault.
     She appeared agitated, Ukyo grinning lightly at the
frown Anijza made.  The corners of her lips drew deep, hints
of fury; the first time Ukyo saw any anger from the girl,
evident on her face.
     �That will cost you, Akane Tendo,� Anijza was heard to
say before charging across the court.  The basketball
bounced in a rapid blur as she came, but this time Akane did
not make the same mistake as before.  She waited until
Anijza appeared ready to shoot then lunged grabbing the ball
just before it got over her head.  A good attempt to steal
the ball, Anijza pulled it back down and they tussled for it
furiously at the center of the court.
     The teacher�s whistle blew.  �Jump ball!� she cried
striding out onto the court.
     Vicious stares were traded, Akane and Anijza backing
away from each other while their teacher held the ball up
between them.  Ukyo thought she was about to call the game
and end what was clearly becoming a battle of wills, but she
glanced at both of them then tossed the ball up into the
air.
     Ukyo knew Akane could jump and jump high.  An easy pick
and score, she stood suddenly amazed at what happened next.
Anijza�s hand shot past Akane�s, her body hanging in the air
almost as if held aloft by some mystical power.  Nobody
could believe it, and Akane eyes went wide, letting out a
cry as her hands missed their target.  She landed; spinning
around to late to stop a now moving Anijza from sinking her
shot though the hoop.
     Eight to four with the home team on the verge of
defeat.
     �You want to surrender now, Akane?� Anijza asked.
     Not a sound came from Akane; her head hung arms down at
her side, fury vibrating her body.  She suddenly pointed
sharply towards Anijza�s side of the court conveying that
this contest was not over yet.
     �You are going to lose, Akane,� said Anijza.
     Silently, Akane retrieved the basketball and stood
glaring across the court.  I can take her, she thought; I
know I can take her!
     If Anijza got the ball back down the court after her
next score, it was game over and Akane knew it.  No doubt
she would be allowed to make this shot, but Akane had a plan
in mind to counter anything this girl might try.
     At least she hoped.
     Just as predicted, Anijza allowed Akane to make her
points bringing the score up eight to six.  Anijza retrieved
the ball Akane backed up but remained on her side of the
court.
     �Oh?  Committing suicide?� said Anijza.
     �If I allow you to get within range I�m done,� answered
Akane.  �That�s not going to happen, Anijza.  I�ve figured
out much of your style and I think I can keep you from
making a clean shot.�
     �Really?  Hmm� we�ll see about that.�
     Anijza brought the ball out dribbling hard only to find
Akane right with her step for step.  She tried faking,
darting back and forth but each time Akane had an arm or
hand in the way covering any opening.  The duel reached a
climax as Anijza pressed her trying to get clear.  Soon they
reached half court and it looked like Akane�s plan was
succeeding.
     Suddenly, Anijza stopped going to the upper right
corner of Akane�s side.  As she stood slowly bouncing the
basketball with steady deliberate beats, Anijza began
chuckling lightly.  �You�ve lost, Akane Tendo,� she said,
bringing the ball up over her head.
     �No way,� Ukyo muttered, but it was what she thought
and feared.
     Anijza let fly with the basketball and all eyes watched
as it arched perfectly through the air straight though the
hoop without even touched the sides or net.
     It was a three-pointer making the final score eleven to
six.
     An awkward silence followed; Akane standing with jaw
agape at the hoop in utter disbelief.  The rest of the
class, including the teacher stared at Anijza shocked by the
defeat of their reigning champion.  There was not much
anyone could say or do, forced to accept what just
transpired.
     Finally, Ukyo broke from her stupor and turned to the
teacher.  �Uh, I think we�ve had enough Basketball for
today.�
     The teacher shook her head and cleared her throat.  �Uh
yes, Ukyo.  I do believe you are right,� she replied.

                          * * * * *

     The next class came and went, but Akane could not shake
the shock of her loss at the hands of Anijza.  It was
lunchtime now and she sat alone off near a cluster of trees
well away from the rest of the students.  The word of her
defeat passed quickly around the school and she could not
bear to endure the humility and shame it brought.
     Not to mention Ranma probably would not allow her to
live it down.
     Akane let out a light grunt, smiling sadly while
opening her lunchbox.  I can hear him now she mused, �Lost,
eh!  Goes to show what a good looking person can do against
an un-cute Tomboy!�.
     Anger flushed her cheeks, fist balling tight.  �Listen
to me!� she grumbled to herself, �It was just a game!�
Akane�s fury melted away into sobs.  �A game I lost to that
girl,� she finished, crying into her hands.
     Something appeared over her shoulder. Akane sensed a
presence behind her and looked up to find Ranma holding a
handkerchief out to her.
     �Ranma,� she said then turned away.
     He sat down beside Akane and gazed innocently up at the
sky.  Finally, Akane found the nerve to face him.  They were
quiet waiting for the other to speak.
     �So, ah� heard you, uhm� you had yourself a basketball
game today?� asked Ranma.
     Akane tensed.  �Don�t start with me, Ranma,� she
answered.
     �I�m not starting anything,� he replied.  Another
awkward moment passed.
     �She really beat you?�
     Akane spun around.  �Damn it, Ranma!�  Reigning in her
anger, she took in a few breaths to calm down.  Fury gave
way to truth, Akane�s shoulders sagging slightly.  �Yes.�
     Losing was bad enough for someone as athletic as Akane;
losing to a foreigner and another woman to boot a serious
blow to her prestige.  Gently, Ranma placed an arm around
her.  Akane did not resist as he drew her close and soon she
was sobbing lightly into his chest.
     �Don�t cry,� he told her trying to sooth her sorrows.
�It was only a game.  We all know you�re still the best
basketball player in Furinkan.�
     Akane hugged him tighter, pleased by his words.  �But
she humiliated me in front of my entire class!�
     �She outscored you yes, but from what I heard you put
up a darned good fight.�
     �It was as if, as if she was possessed,� continued
Akane.  Drawing back, she looked up at him with a serious
gaze.  �Ranma, there is something wrong with Anijza.�
     Ranma smirked.  What?  What could be wrong with her?
She seems normal to me.�
     Akane turned away and drew her knees up to her chest,
resting her chin on them.  Thoughts about the strange
exchange student passed.  �It was like I was playing a
totally different person,� she said.  �All of that cutesy-
cuddly innocence turning into��
     Her words trailed leaving Ranma hanging on for the
rest.
     �Okay I�ll bite.  Turned into what?� he finally asked.
     �I don�t know, but, but it was not Anijza.�  She faced
him again.  �Or maybe it was the real Anijza.�
     The fear at the back of her eyes could be clearly seen
by Ranma.  He started to say something, paused and then gave
her a wry look.  �Are you sure this is not jealousy speaking
here?�
     �Ranma!�
     Ranma broke out into a laugh pulling Akane close once
more.  His playful teasing cheered Akane�s spirits and they
both lay back laughing together on the ground.  Finally,
Akane pushed herself up on her arms.
     �You really think I�m the best Basketball player in
school?� she asked.
     �Sure� after me of course.�
     Akane�s fist thumped Ranma hard on his chest making him
laugh aloud once more.  They giggled uncontrollable stopping
abruptly as a long shadow suddenly loomed across them.
Ranma tipped his head back looking straight up at the
polished end of a training sword.
     Tatewaki Kuno stood glaring down at Ranma; Ukyo Kuonji
at his side not liking what she saw either.  His teeth grit
tight together a scowl written on his face.
     �Saotome,� hissed Tatewaki,  �how dare you take
advantage of my betrothed; the fair and delicate Akane!�
     Ranma smiled.  �Upperclassman Kuno.  What a pleasant
surprise!�  The tip of the sword pricked his nose.
     �Release my beloved at once!�
     �Yeah,� Ukyo chimed in.  �Lets get some distance
between you two, okay?�
     Ranma and Akane sat up.
     �We weren�t doing anything,� said Ranma.
     Tatewaki stuffed his sword into sash tied around his
waist.  �I should smite you down, Saotome, but I do not
think my dearest Akane would appreciate your blood spilled
across her fine blanket.�
     �I�m not your �beloved�,� said Akane.  �We were just
talking about Anijza that�s all.�
     �Ah, yes,� replied Tatewaki, raising a finger up
thoughtfully.  He reached into his shirt and pulled out a
bouquet of flowers kneeling before her.  �For you, my love.
To soften the blow from your defeat suffered this morning.�
     A hard slap sent the flowers sailing away.  Ranma drew
back from Akane as she rose up on her knees.  Tatewaki
wisely fled before she could get within arms reach
retreating behind Ukyo.
     �I did not mean to insult you, Akane!� he said over
Ukyo�s shoulder.
     Again, truth took over; Akane letting out her breath
staring at the ground.
     �Akane?  Akane are you all right?� asked Ranma inching
closer to her.
     �This is not going to go away any time soon,� she said
in a low voice.
     �Not as long as Anijza is around,� replied Ukyo.  She
sat down pulling Tatewaki with her.  �So what do you intend
to do?�
     Akane frowned at her.  �What do you mean?�
     �Are you going to let her get away with beating you
like that?�
     �What are you saying, Ukyo?�
     She rolled her eyes up to the sky.  �I�m saying get in
some practice, and then challenge her to another game of one-
on-one.�
     Instantly, Akane�s eyes brightened as the idea.  �Yes!�
she cried, �I�ll show that hussy who�s the best here.
I�ll�.�
     �Now hold on a minute,� Ranma cut in.  He appeared
upset at Akane, looking at both her and Ukyo with some
dissatisfaction.  �I can�t believe you two.  Anijza is our
guest and you want to humiliate her because she played a
better game of basketball?�
     Akane flinched stung by his comment.  �Ranma, you�re
not siding with Anijza over me� are you?�
     �You�re being a bad sport about this Akane,� he
answered.  �You don�t see Upperclassman Kuno plotting
revenge upon me every time I beat him down, do you?�
     �Every day,� quipped Tatewaki.
     Ranma cut him a brief look then continued.  �Listen,
Akane.  I�m with you, but don�t be so vengeful about it.�
     Ukyo could see a shimmer of tears forming in Akane�s
eyes.  Although not a close friend, she still could not
stand to see Akane�s feelings hurt.  �Ranma!� she shouted.
�I saw the game and if Anijza were here right now she�d
probable be grinding Akane�s nose in the fact that she beat
her.�
     �Anijza?  I find that hard to believe.�
     �Believe it, and for that matter where is your imported
shadow anyway?�
     �Library.  She said something about reviewing current
math theories.�
     Akane�s brows shot up.  �That reminds me.  Ranma,� she
called.  He turned and was greeted by the palm of Akane�s
open hand across his face.
     He fell back shocked by the blow.  �What the hell was
that for?� shouted Ranma.
     �For allowing Anijza to get you into so much trouble!�
     �I have heard about this,� Tatewaki cut in, �I
understand that you Saotome have been foolish enough to
challenge Sensei Mukuro�s math test.�
     �So?�
     �With the highest score?�
     �With a perfect score!�
     Ukyo gaped at him.  �Ranma, you are kidding?� she
asked.
     �No.  Anijza is going to help me do it.�
     �Anijza!�
     �Yes, Anijza,� drawled Akane.
     Tatewaki laughed irking Ranma.  �What�s so funny?�
     �You and your misguided notion of acing that test.�
     �What�s so misguided about acing this test?�
     Kuno smiled.  �No one has ever, I mean ever, aced
Sensei Mukuro�s Ultimate All-Maddening Test of Death!�
     It was if a crash of thunder accompanied his words;
Ranma flinching sharply back.  He gaped at him and then
smirked.
     �Ultimate All-Maddening Test of Death?�
     �Nobody has aced it,� Tatewaki said again.  His eyes
narrowed.  �Not even Gosunkugi.�
     Another crash of thunder, Akane and Ukyo drawing in
fearful breaths.
     Behind them walking across the lawn appeared Anijza.
In her arms she carried two large books and as she got
closer she could see the shocked expression on Ranma�s face.
No doubt those two intruders and that buffoon looking male
were the cause of it, she knew she better get over there and
drive out their misbegotten spells.
     Anijza called out to Ranma and they all looked back at
her.  A stuttered gasp emanated from Tatewaki and he shot to
his feet.  �It is the pigtailed girl!� he exclaimed surging
towards her.  A tight grip around one ankle sent Kuno
crashing chin first to the ground.
     �She�s not the �pigtailed girl�, Upperclassman Kuno,�
Ranma told him.  �This is Anijza Kwong; the exchange student
who whooped up on Akane today.�
     Akane�s fist came down hard on the top of his head.
     Tatewaki instantly came back up to his feet eyeing
Anijza.  �And such an attractive exchange student she is,�
he said in a seductive voice.
     A grim look came to Anijza, eyes narrowing slightly
with annoyance.  Ignoring Kuno�s lurid advance, she went
past and sat down beside Ranma.  Akane�s dagger filled gaze
followed her, but she ignored it setting the books down on
the ground.
     �Ranma-chan,� she said to him.
     �Chan?� questioned Ukyo, ready to pounce.
     Anijza shook Ranma back to consciousness.  His eyes
focused making out the blurred figure above him.  �Anijza?�
he moaned.
     �Did I wake you, Ranma-chan?�
     Akane rolled her eyes sickened buy Anijza innocent
demeanor.  �No he�s reeling from shock over your out-of-
place decision you made for him earlier.�
     Sensing the barb, Anijza slowly turned around.  �I have
made nothing of the sort, Akane.�
     �Oh, and he will get the highest score on the test,�
mocked Akane, mimicking her innocent features.
     �It will be true!� snapped Anijza.
     �Anijza, that math test is the hard,� Ukyo told her.
�Ranma will be lucky if he gets the minimal passing score.�
     �Well there you go, Ranma,� Anijza said.  �Shows you
how much faith your so-called �wives� have in you.�
     Ukyo and Akane shot to their feet.  �What!� they both
cried.
     Ranma sat up.  �Well� she is kind of right,� he said.
     �Heh, heh, heh, heh� better watch how you say this,
Saotome,� chuckled Tatewaki, �not that I would mind watching
you get flailed alive.�
     �Ranma!  Are you� are you agreeing with Anijza?�
     He shrugged.  �At first I thought this could be the
worst thing to happen to me, but�.�  He paused a moment
trying not to say something that would insult Akane, or
Ukyo.  �Anijza seems to have faith in me.�
     �But she doesn�t know how hard this test is!� said
Ukyo.
     �Neither do any of us!�
     �I do,� said Tatewaki.
     �Did you pass?� asked Anijza.
     Tatewaki grimaced, fidgeting uncomfortable around.
�Uh, it was a score I would like to keep secret,� he finally
told them.
     �Did you pass?� asked Anijza again.
     Clutching a fist to his forehead, Tatewaki let out a
long sigh.  �Yes, but it was not the perfect score a Kuno
would be proud of!�
     Anijza smiled looking back up at the girls.  �See.  If
he can pass, Ranma can pass.�
     �But not with a perfect score!� replied Akane.
     �Ooo,� mused Anijza.  She frowned, rubbing her chin
thoughtfully, and then smiled again.  �Was not part of the
deal, but I can fit that one in too.�
     �Not possible,� said Tatewaki.
     Akane dropped back down and knelt close beside Ranma.
Her eyes pleaded with him, almost begging Ranma to abort
what she felt was a foolish attempt.
     �Ranma� I don�t want to see you get set back because of
this,� she said.
     �I won�t.  If Anijza here thinks I can do it, then damn
it I�m going to!�
     Akane drew up eye to eye with him, angered by his
stubbornness.  �Baka!  How can you trust this foreigner!
You hardly know her!�
     Anger flashed in Ranma�s eyes.  �Because she�s willing
to show some faith in me, Akane!  As for knowing her, I
don�t, but I know you and I are in the same class!�
     �What�s that supposed to mean?�
     He gently pushed her back keeping his dark glower on
her.  �I don�t remember you offering me any help.�
     Akane virtually jumped away from him stung by the
remark.  Harsh words, so harsh both Ukyo and Tatewaki were
stunned by them.  Silence prevailed; Anijza secretly
enjoying the pain Akane was suffering.  This would no doubt
end their close relationship, the remaining three so-called
wives nothing but minute nuances easily brushed aside.
     Finally, Akane reached down and began to gather her
things.  �Okay. Okay, you want to get set back, you get set
back,� she said.  Shaking hands fumbled with the things on
the ground as she fought to leave the area before tears
could flow.  Ranma knew he had hurt her.
     �Akane,� he said but she cut him off.
     �No!�  Tears shimmered in Akane�s eyes.  �You want to
be foolish, be foolish!  See� see if I care!�
     �I�m not being foolish, and you could have some faith
in me!�
     �Why, when you�ve got a new somebody to nurture your
stupid ego!�
     �Uh, Akane� Ranma,� said Ukyo.  They ignored her.
     �Well I�m going to show you, Akane.  I�m going to ace
that test so you better be ready to eat your words!�
     �The only thing I�m going to be eating is a chocolate
parfait sundae in celebration of my passing that test!  You
on the other hand will be drowning in sorrow wondering how
you could be so stupid in the first place!�
     �Oh yeah?�
     �Yeah!�
     Akane stormed off leaving Ranma behind in a furious
stupor.  This was the biggest blowout ever Ukyo thought
glancing back and forth between the couple.  Ranma flopped
back down onto the ground trying to settle himself.  Before
she could go to his side, Anijza appeared taking up what was
becoming her familiar spot on his arm.
     �Don�t mind her,� she said cooing close to his ear,
�You are going to show them all.�
     He sighed.  �Are you sure?� asked Ranma.
     �Faith, remember?�
     Ukyo sneered.  This was starting to make her sick.
Ranma cut a glance up at her and she smirked turning away.
�Akane!� called Ukyo, running after her.
     Again the silence, then Tatewaki shifted rising up.
Ranma tensed expecting him to draw, but the Upperclassman
stood quietly staring down at them.
     �You want some of me too?� Ranma asked.
     �No,� answered Tatewaki.  �I think you have suffered
enough pain today.�  He walked away leaving the couple
alone.
     Ranma watched him go then looked at Anijza.  She let
out a giggle hugging his arm tight.  Somehow, it did nothing
more but make him feel worse.
     �What have I done?� he muttered, hanging his head in
his hands�

                          * * * * *

     Akane walked home alone that day.
     As she shuffled along her mind filled with the memories
of what had to be the worst day of her life.  Torn between
anger at Ranma for what she thought was stupidity, and deep
concern for his well being; confusion reigned as a tug-o-war
battle raged in her heart.
     It was all because of this exchange student, she
thought bitterly.  The heat rose at her cheeks in the mere
suggestion of Anijza and what mayhem she caused.  A full day
and a half and here she was acting like she�d know Ranma for
decades.  It was not right!  For him to place his entire
future in her hands was idiotic to the point of outright
insanity.
     Akane�s angry musings subsided.  Or was it?
     In a way, Anijza was right about showing some
confidence in Ranma, and his comment about helping him had
hit home.  She knew he was not excelling in their math
class, but from her recollection his grades would not get
him set back as long as he maintained his current standing.
Sadness flowed through her.  Yes� yes I could have been more
help, but he didn�t ask for it!
     Did he need too?
     The gates of the dojo were just up ahead; Akane
shuffled though them without any real care of arriving home.
Walking up the footpath she could see her father and Mister
Saotome working around the grounds.  They gave her brief
looks, more akin to looks of concern before continuing on
with their chores.  She entered the home and kicked off her
shoes.
     �Hello,� she said as she entered the living room where
Nabiki and Kasumi sat watching the T.V.  They both turned
expecting to see Ranma with her, but when he did not show
they traded looks.  Nabiki picked up the remote and shut off
the T.V.
     Uh-oh,� Akane thought as she sat down at the table.
Kasumi gazed upon her for a moment.
     �So it is true,� she finally said.
     �What�s true?� asked Akane.
     �You got� how did you put it, Nabiki?  �Drove� today?�
     Akane�s mouth fell open.  �What!  I did not get �drove�
today!� she shouted.
     �Like a Hyundai,� commented Nabiki without so much as a
care.
     �No!  Oh no!� cried Akane.  �I am not going to sit here
and take any flak from you two!�
     Nabiki chuckled, waving her off.  �Calm down, little
sister,� she said.  �My network told me all about your loss
at Anijza�s hands.
     �She, she, she cheated!�
     �Hardly.  My spies witnessed everything.  You got beat
fair and square.�
     Akane slammed a fist down on the table nearly cracking
it in half.  She got up and went to the patio doorway,
fuming in bitter silence.  Kasumi called to her and she
looked around.
     �Akane, we�re not worried about you loosing to Anijza,�
she said.
     �Well bringing it up like you did does not help at
all!� Akane yelled at her.
     �Such anger,� said Nabiki.
     �You�d be angry too if this was you, Nabiki!�
     Akane paused drawing in a deep breath.  �I�m sorry,�
she said.
     �We understand,� replied Kasumi,  �we�re more concerned
about your relationship with Ranma.�
     Akane let out a derisive grunt, gazing back out across
the yard.  A hand came down on her shoulder, Kasumi�s warm
and gentle features appearing beside Akane.  They stared at
each other then Akane could not hold back her grief.  She
embraced her tight crying into her sister�s chest.
     �There, there, Akane,� said Kasumi, stroking her hair
gently.  �It�s not all that bad.�
     �Kasumi!  I�ve had such a terrible day!�
     �Yes, I understand this.�  Gently, Kasumi pulled Akane
away from her staring deep into her eyes.  �From what I see
it�s nothing more than a little jealousy.�
     �Huh?�
     �What she�s saying, little sister is that you are
reacting very badly to Anijza�s presence.�
     Akane broke away from Kasumi.  �I am not!� she cried
squaring off with Nabiki.
     �I�m afraid you are, Akane,� added Kasumi.
     �Huh?�  Akane spun around not believing her ears.  Both
sisters were siding against her in this hour of crisis?
All because of that witch cooing up to her man!
     �Listen Akane,� continued Nabiki, �Arguing with Ranma
like you did is way above the normal spats you have had in
the past.�
     �You know about that?�
     Nabiki smiled.  �Nothing escapes my network, sis.  Now
then, as a fellow woman I can understand your feelings for
Ranma and the concern for him.  However, Ranma can take care
of himself.�
     �He�s literally placed his future in Anijza�s hands,
Nabiki!  This is only her second day here and already she�s
got him wrapped around her finger.�
     �Akane,� said Kasumi.  �Anijza is only offering to help
him pass your upcoming math final that�s all.  What�s the
harm in that?�
     �You both know what will happen to him if he fails, or
does not get the top score, right?�
     Kasumi and Nabiki traded looks.  �Yes,� Nabiki
answered.
     �And you don�t think I should be concerned?�
     �No,� said Kasumi.
     Akane sat down again, leaning towards Nabiki.  �Do you
know what her math background is?� she asked.
     A good question, one Nabiki was ready to answer.  �My
sources in the administration department did some research
for me. Anijza has a history of excellence in mathematics.�
     �She does?�
     �A-huh.  Her average is almost perfect.�
     �So you see, Akane. Ranma is in good hands,� added
Kasumi.
     Coming from Nabiki, Akane could only sit stunned by the
information.  It appeared that she indeed was overreacting
to Anijza.  There was something though, something irking her
mind, a notion that she was about to loose Ranma.  That was
not going to happen, no!
     �So when are you going to apologize?� said Nabiki
breaking her from her thoughts.
     �Me, apologize?�
     �To Ranma,� said Kasumi.
     �Oh� I should, shouldn�t I?�
     �Yep, and also to Anijza,� Nabiki said.
     Akane looked sharply at her.  �That I will not do,� she
declared.
     �She�s just trying to help, and Ranma is not going to
dump you for her.�
     �Yeah, like she helped humiliate me in front of my phys-
ed class,� replied Akane.  She sighed resting her head in
her hands.
     Kasumi patted her lightly on the back.  �Not everyone
can be the best all the time, Akane,� she told her.
     She was right and Akane knew it.  Laughing at herself,
Akane leaned back.  Nabiki and Kasumi waited for her to say
something, but she continued to stare up at the ceiling.
     �Akane, you haven�t gone off on us, have you?� Nabiki
asked.
     �Huh?  Oh, no I�m just picturing Ranma and his reaction
when I admit to him that I might be wrong.�
     �Burns your ass, doesn�t it?�
     No reply was needed; Akane giving her a unpleasant
stare.
     Through the patio door Mousse suddenly appeared
carrying several bags of groceries in his arms straining to
keep them together.
     �Kasumi� I think I� got everything you wanted� me to
get!� he said amidst his grunts.
     �Put them in the pantry, Mousse,� she told him.  �I�ll
be there in a second.�
     Mousse trundled out the room.
     �Gee, that was nice of Mousse,� said Akane.  �I didn�t
know the Nekohatten was doing grocery deliveries now.�
     �They�re not,� said Kasumi, getting up.  �Mousse is
staying with us now.�
     �He is?�
     �Something about Cologne and your little accident
yesterday?� explained Nabiki.
     Akane gasped in shock.  She remembered Mousse saying
something to the affects that Cologne might fire him, but
she never thought it would happen.  It was more bad luck and
it felt like it had something to do with Anijza.
     �Can�t have him out on the street,� she said.
     �True.  So, are you going to make up with Ranma?�
     �Yes, I guess I better.�
     �And Anijza?�
     Akane hesitated a moment.  Nabiki arched a brow at her
and she finally nodded.
     �Good!  Now I�ve got to go and update my ledgers.
Kasumi will have diner ready soon so why don�t you go up and
relax a while, okay?�
     �Sure,� Akane said sadly.  Before she could rise,
Nabiki reached out gently taking her by the shoulders.
     �Akane, the only person who has Ranma wrapped around
their finger is you, okay?�
     �You think so?�
     �Yes.  Now stop worrying.�
     Nabiki leaned back trading a smile with her sibling.
Akane, feeling somewhat relieved, headed up the steps.
     Laughing quietly to herself, Nabiki looked out across
the backyard for a moment.
     �I should charge for my services,� she said, giggling
at the notion�




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