These walls I live inside Protect me from hatred and lies And these walls have made me strong But it's not where I belong I hear you knocking but can't let you in I don't know how it's gonna end But these walls, they set me free Kept me safe and sheltered me Here's where the road begins Got to reach out if I'm gonna win Gotta know how - I'm old enough now Never gonna feel this way again No, I'm never gonna hide behind these walls again +-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ | Daigakusei no Ranma | | | | Created by David Tai and Paul Gallegos | | | | Based on the characters created by Rumiko Takahashi | +-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ =============================================================================== -= Episode 23: "Sex, Lies, and Summer Break" =- =============================================================================== [It is early morning in the Saotomes' apartment at Maison Sabaku. Someone has made a half-hearted attempt at packing for a trip, but the job is obviously unfinished. Clothes are scattered around and three empty suitcases sit against the bathroom wall. Both Ranma and Akane are sprawled out on the futon, with only a light sheet draped loosely over them. Ranma turns over suddenly, mumbling something, and his arm falls over Akane. She snuggles back against him, still asleep, and clutches his arm. Ranma slowly opens his eyes. He has a bleary, disoriented look.] Ranma: [groaning] Yeargh. [He squeezes his eyes shut again and snuggles closer to Akane for a moment. Then his eyes fly open.] Ranma: [thinking] I'm a guy! Akane's going to kill me! [Akane twists around suddenly, backhanding Ranma. He stifles his cry of pain. The sheet falls slightly, uncovering Akane's bare shoulders.] Ranma: [thinking] No way! We didn't.... [feels around beneath the sheets] We did? I gotta get out of here before she wakes up! [Ranma tries to free his arm, but without much success. Akane has it in an iron grip. She twists around so that her face is right next to Ranma's. It is then, of course, that she opens her eyes.] Akane: [looking as bleary as Ranma] Wha--? Ranma: Um... Morning? * * * [Outside Maison Sabaku, Nabiki and Kasumi are getting out of a taxi. Kasumi has on an attractive beige sundress. Nabiki is wearing a pair of tight gray shorts and a Mizunoikan t-shirt, knotted at the waist.] Kasumi: [to the taxi driver] We'll be just a minute. [The two of them walk toward the doors of Maison Sabaku. Nabiki looks like she had a rough night with reddened eyes and a bleary look. Kasumi has a serious look on her face.] Nabiki: [yawning] Want to bet they aren't up yet? It's ONLY the day we go home, after all. Kasumi: [trying to smile] I'm sure that everything will be all right, Nabiki-chan. Nabiki: [rolling her eyes] You weren't at the party last night, Kasumi. [looks at her older sister in concern] Do you want to tell them about your--? Kasumi: [shakes her head] No, I'll tell everyone when we get home. [Kasumi tries the door. It's locked, so she rings the bell. After a minute, Kazuyo opens the door and looks out at them.] Kazuyo: Yes? [recognizes Nabiki] Oh, Tendo-san, good morning. Nabiki: Morning, Furuya-san. [turns to Kasumi] This is Kasumi, my older sister, Furuya-san. [They exchange polite greetings] Do you know if Akane and Ranma are up yet? [Suddenly they hear a loud scream from upstairs.] Akane: [yelling] PERVERT! Kazuyo: [wincing] I believe they are now. Nabiki: How's that safety deposit doing, by the way? Kazuyo: They worked through that a long time ago. [Nabiki sighs.] * * * [In Apartment Four, things have not improved. Ranma, clad now in only his shorts, has scrambled away from the bed. Akane is clutching the sheet around herself. Both of them appear to regret being awake.] Akane: What were you thinking, you pervert? Ranma: What was -I- thinking? [getting angry] Hey, don't go blaming all this on me! Akane: [loudly] Why not? [winces and speaks more softly] It's your fault. You got me drunk last night! Ranma: [rubbing his head] YOU were the one who said everyone should drink some more! Akane: Since when do you listen to me?! [They glare at each other. Finally, Ranma looks away.] Ranma: You don't remember either, do you? Akane: [surprised] Um... no. I don't. [winces again] My head feels like it's going to split open. [Ranma tries to nod, but gives up. He stumbles into the bathroom and returns with a glass of water and some aspirin.] Ranma: Here. [hands her the water and aspirin] Akane: T-thanks. [swallows the pill] Ranma? Do you think we...? [Ranma is spared from answering by a knock at the door.] Kazuyo: [from outside] Akane-san? Are you all right? Your sisters are here, waiting for you. [Both Ranma and Akane try to get their clothes. Once Akane has hers, she heads for the bathroom, sheet and all.] Akane: Now we're late! [loudly] Just a minute, Kanrinin-san! Ranma: [grumbling] It's not my fault! [The two of them begin hurriedly dressing and tossing stuff into the suitcases.] * * * [The three sisters and Ranma sit at the train station serving the colleges. Akane and Ranma sit on either end of the bench. Kasumi sits next to Ranma, listening to a Walkman. Nabiki is reading the newspaper next to Akane.] Akane: I can't believe that idiot made us miss our train. Nabiki: [putting down her paper] Not really. I got tickets for the nine o'clock. Akane: [frowning] Are you saying you EXPECTED us to be late? [Nabiki just shrugs and smiles. Ranma stands up in disgust. Nabiki's smile falls away.] Ranma: [speaking to Akane] I'm going to go to the vending machines. Want anything, Akane? Akane: [still looking hungover] No. [Ranma sighs and walks away toward the machines. Nabiki watches him go, but he ignores her. She then turns on her sister.] Nabiki: OK, spill it. What's eating you two? Ever since we left your apartment, he's been nice to you. Ranma's never THAT nice unless he's done something wrong. Akane: [blushing] I don't want to talk about it. [Nabiki studies her little sister for a minute. Her eyes widen. She pulls aside Kasumi's earphones and whispers something to her. Both sisters then stare at Akane.] Nabiki: They did it. Kasumi: Oh, Akane, I'm so happy for you! Akane: What? Nabiki: I thought you two seemed really happy last night. [winks] Come on, tell your big sisters. What was Ranma like? Akane: [blushing furiously now] Why would I do anything like... like... THAT with him? Kasumi: [smiling] Because he's your husband? [Akane flounders for a moment, realizing she does not have a good reply.] Akane: All right, I'll tell you. We don't remember anything about last night. We just woke up together.... [she blushes again] Nabiki: [sardonically] You don't remember? Kasumi: [shaking her head] Oh, Akane-chan... you should plan these things more carefully. You don't want to get pregnant while you're still in college, do you? [digs in her purse] Here, take these. [hands Akane a box] [Akane takes it and sees it is a box of condoms. She blushes more brightly than before (if possible) and stuffs the box into her purse.] Akane: Kasumi! Nabiki: [looking amazed] Wow, economy size, too. [Three familiar figures carrying large suitcases arrive before the discussion goes any further. Ukyou, Megami, and Makiko see the sisters and stop. Ukyou is wearing a cream-colored sundress that is just a little more daring than Kasumi's. Makiko is wearing denim shorts and a loose tank top. She is sweating a lot. Megami is wearing jeans and a Minky Momo t-shirt that looks a little small on her. She now seems about 14-15 years old.] Ukyou: [waving] Hi, guys! Megami: Hi, Auntie Akane, Auntie Kasumi! [Akane winces at being called an aunt while Kasumi just smiles. Nabiki raises an eyebrow but says nothing.] Makiko: Aren't you all hot? Akane: It's not that bad, Makiko. Ukyou: I told you it wasn't that hot, Maki-chan. Megami: I think it's fine! Makiko: Speak for yourself! I'm broiling! Ukyou: That's because you spend too much time in air-conditioned computer labs, Maki-chan. [Everyone laughs, except Makiko.] Kasumi: Are you going back to Nerima, Ukyou-chan? Ukyou: [blinks] I'm sorry, but we're going down to Osaka to spend some time with my father. [looks sad] It's been a long time since I last visited my family. Didn't Akane-chan and Ranchan tell you? Akane: [looking embarrassed] Oops... what with exams and all, I guess we forgot. I'm sorry, Kasumi. [Kasumi just smiles and shrugs. Nabiki turns to Ukyou.] Nabiki: [smiling] Bring us all some souvenirs. Akane: Nabiki! Ukyou: [laughs] I'll see if I can find something appropriate. After that, I'm going to meet Maki-chan's family. Seems only fair. And her loverboy's invited her to a family wedding. Then, we'll see. Makiko: He's NOT my loverboy! Megami: Are you and Uncle Lardy going to get married someday, Auntie Maki? Makiko: [sputtering] What?! What gave you that idea? Megami: Auntie Kasumi told me about how Uncle Ranchan and Auntie Akane acted before they got married! [Everyone looks at Kasumi who just smiles. Akane and Makiko are blushing rather badly. Ukyou smiles sadly while Nabiki assumes her best neutral expression.] Ukyou: Anyway, where's Ranchan? I better say goodbye to him. Akane: [grumbling] He's off feeding his face at the vending machines. Ukyou: OK, I'll go find him. Will you watch my stuff, Maki-chan? [puts down her luggage] Makiko: [nodding] Sure. [Ukyou walks off. Makiko sits on her suitcase, which resembles a small trunk.] Makiko: [gritting her teeth] So, "Auntie Kasumi" what else did you tell Megami-chan? Kasumi: [smiling] Oh, she had all sorts of questions about her "Uncle Ranchan" when she was over at my place the other day. She really is a bright child. [Megami beams. Makiko looks at her and at Kasumi and throws an "I give up" look at the ceiling.] Makiko: [turning to Akane] How are you this morning, Akane-san? After last night-- [she giggles as Akane blushes] Akane: Um, I'm fine. [thought] Did we do something embarrassing last night at the party? [aloud] How are *you* feeling, Kawamura-san? Makiko: [beaming] Oh, just fine. I slept like a log last night. [Akane's hungover look promises great suffering to the cheerful college student.] Kasumi: Sounds like the party was a lot of fun. Nabiki: [dryly] Some of us had more fun than others. [winks at Akane] Right, Akane-chan? [Akane turns a brighter shade of red as Makiko giggles again.] * * * [Ranma is standing in a small line by the vending machines.] Ranma: [thought] Damn it! How long is this going to take? [He looks back towards Akane and the others.] I wish I remembered what happened last night. If Akane and I did do it, I think I would know... wouldn't I? Ukyou's Voice: Ranchan! [Ranma looks over and sees Ukyou running toward him. He gives her a wave and a smile.] Ranma: Morning, Ucchan... [looks down] Still going to Osaka over break? Ukyou: I'm sorry Ranchan. I think I really need some time with my family. And since the restaurant is closed, there just isn't that much for me in Nerima anymore. I... I wanted to say goodbye. [They both look uncomfortable for a moment.] Ranma: [slowly] That's too bad. I was hoping you could make it to the beach with us over break.... Ukyou: [wistfully] I wish I could, Ranchan. It'd be like old times. But I really want to see my grandparents again, and then visit Maki-chan's family. We also made plans to see Lardizabal for a bit-- Ranma: Lardy? Why -him-? Ukyou: [producing a hand-spatula and swatting Ranma on the head] Be nice, Ranchan. I think Maki-chan really likes him. Ranma: I don't see why. He's stuck-up, obnoxious, rude, always chasing after Akane-- Ukyou: [giggling and poking Ranma in the chest] Nothing like anyone we know, right? Ranma: Hey! [frowns, then smiles sadly] I'll miss you, Ucchan. Ukyou: [seriously] I'll miss you too, Ranchan, but I think I need to do this. See my Dad.... get a fresh start, I guess. [Ranma is quiet for a time. He takes his turn at the vending machine and then looks at Ukyou.] Ranma: I guess we had to go our separate ways eventually, but I kinda thought our whole gang would always be together. Ukyou: [swatting him again] Hey, I'm not dying, Ranchan! I'll see you next semester. Friends forever, right? Ranma: Of course! Ukyou: [holds out her hand with pinky extended] Pinky promise? Ranma: [smiling, hooking his finger around Ukyou's] Yup! PA System: Eight-thirty train to Osaka, now boarding on Track Four. Eight- thirty train to Osaka, now boarding on Track Four. Ukyou: That's my train! See you when classes start, Ranchan! [hugs him] [Ranma hugs her back and watches Ukyou run through the crowd. She stops by the bench with the others, bows good-bye, and then she, Megami, and Makiko rush off through the crowd.] Ranma: [to himself] Take care, Ucchan. * * * [Nerima Station. Akane, Nabiki, and Kasumi are standing by the main gate. Ranma is standing nearby, carrying all their luggage. He is standing as far away from Nabiki as he can, while Akane is keeping her distance from him. Kasumi watches this with a slight smile.] Nabiki: [irritated] Where ARE they? I should have known they'd be late. Kasumi: Don't worry, Nabiki-chan, I'm sure Auntie Saotome will get them here eventually. [The words are no sooner out of her mouth when her father runs up and gives them all (including Ranma and the luggage) a giant hug.] Soun: [wailing] Oh, my daughters are finally home! Akane: [squashed] Ungh! Nabiki: [also squashed] Daddy! Kasumi: [in the hug] Oh! Ranma: [angrily] Hey! Get off me! I can't breathe! [Nodoka walks up, smiling gently and wearing a dark blue kimono. She disengages Soun from the young people. Akane, Nabiki, and Kasumi try to calm their father down while Nodoka pulls Ranma aside.] Nodoka: Now, now, Ranma. Is that anyway to talk to your father-in-law? Ranma: Sorry, Mom. Nodoka: [hugging him] It's all right. We're just so happy to see you. [hugs the others] Genma is holding the taxis for us, so we better hurry. * * * [Two taxis pull up before the Tendo Dojo. Everyone piles out of the taxis and starts unloading the luggage.] Akane: [looking up at the house] It's good to be home.... Ranma: [carrying several suitcases] Hmm? Oh, yeah. I've missed this place. [They walk inside the Dojo's walls and stop short. A few changes have apparently snuck in while they were gone. The pond is surrounded by a rock garden, the sand very neatly raked around the rocks to resemble waves in the ocean. A flower bed now sits alongside the house.] Ranma: What the--? Kasumi: [following him and Akane] How pretty! [Nodoka, Nabiki, Soun, and Genma follow them inside.] Nodoka: Do you really think so, Kasumi? Kasumi: [nodding] It looks very beautiful, Auntie. Nabiki: [looking around] Wow, must have cost a bundle. Ranma: [recovering his voice] How are Pop and I supposed to fight with all that junk in the way? Nodoka: [firmly] You'll fight in the Dojo, like civilized martial artists. It's bad enough your father got you cursed, but I won't have you fighting over water any more. [glances at Genma] Besides, your father always left damp panda prints all over the floor. [Ranma sees the glint in her eye and swallows. Akane smiles a little at that. Nodoka and Kasumi head into the kitchen to prepare some food.] Nabiki: Well, I suppose we better take our luggage inside and get settled in. Genma: [pushing Ranma through the door] Go on up, boy! Soun and I got something special for you and Akane! Hahahaha! [Both he and Soun laugh loudly. Ranma starts to become irritated, but Akane just grabs him by his pigtail and hauls him up to her old room. The sign on the door now reads "Akane and Ranma." She pulls him inside and shuts the door, tossing her purse on the desk. The window is open to let in a breeze.] Ranma: [rubbing the back of his head] Owwwww! Why'd ya do that, Akane? [They notice that a large, garish package sits on their bed. Akane opens it and her eyes bug out. She blushes very brightly.] Ranma: What? [He looks inside the box and turns bright red.] Akane: First Kasumi, now my own father... [Nabiki walks by outside and looks in. Seeing them blushing over the box, she steps inside and swiftly peeks inside.] Nabiki: Ooh, is this for you, Akane, or for Ranma-chan? Akane: Nabiki! [Nabiki tries to reach into the box, but Akane slams it shut. Nabiki snickers and leaves the room. Ranma and Akane stand there, hemming and hawing for a bit.] Akane: [looking worried] Listen Ranma.... About last night-- Ranma: You don't have to worry, I'll say it's none of their business. I don't want them making a big deal over it. Akane: Not that. I wanted to apologize for yelling at you. This morning, I mean. Ranma: Hey, it's OK... we were both kinda hung-over. Besides, I'm used to it by now. [Akane begins to get irritated, but tries to control it.] Akane: Used to WHAT? Ranma: Hey, I didn't mean it like that! Why are you always jumping to conclusions, you uncute tomboy? Akane: [angrily] Uncute tomboy?! [They both glare at each other, and then stick out their fists.] Ranma and Akane: [while shaking their fists] 1, 2, 3! [Akane sticks out her hand, still a fist. Ranma forms a pair of scissors with his. The two seem to calm down a bit, and the tension level in the room drops.] Ranma: Well, looks like Makiko was right. OK, you win that one. Anything else we need to talk about? [He leaps out onto the window sill, apparently to take the short route downstairs. Akane begins to shake her head, then she thinks about what her sisters said earlier at the train station.] Akane: Ranma... what if...? We didn't use any protection last night, if we did anything. What if I get pregnant? Ranma: [shocked] P-pregnant? [Ranma falls out the window sill. Recovering slightly, he kicks against the side of the house, propelling himself outwards.] Akane: [running to the window] Ranma! [There is a loud splash. Akane sees Ranma-chan picking herself out of pond, looking disgusted. Akane manages a little smile, then goes to unpack the suitcases. She sees her purse and picks it up. Sitting on the bed, she pulls out the box of condoms Kasumi gave her.] Akane: What if we DID do it? * * * [Kasumi and Nodoka are in the Tendo kitchen, working on making dinner for everyone. There are some new appliances, but the kitchen is as spotless as ever. Kasumi is preparing a salad while Nodoka cooks some rice.] Kasumi: [looking around] It's almost like I never left. Nodoka: [smiling] I've tried to keep it as neat as you did, Kasumi-chan. Some days it's a lot of work. I don't know how you managed with Ranma and Akane here as well. Kasumi: [smiling nostalgically] It did get quite messy at times, didn't it? At school, all I have to deal with is Yuriko, but she's not as bad as they were. [puts a hand apologetically over her mouth] I'm sorry, I didn't mean it like that. Nodoka: Don't worry, Kasumi-chan. I know how much trouble they can be. How are you doing at school? It must be very different for you. Kasumi: [quietly] Y-yes, it was. Nodoka: [noticing Kasumi's tone] Is something wrong, Kasumi-chan? Kasumi: To tell the truth, Auntie, I... didn't do very well at my classes. I-I didn't want to bother any of you with it... Nodoka: [gently] How did you do? Kasumi: I got B's in Biology and Human Anatomy. I got C's in Calculus and History, and a D in Freshman Composition. It was just so different from what I expected. Nodoka: I was worried that you might have trouble, Kasumi-chan, but you were so eager to go, I didn't want to discourage you. Did you speak to your teachers? Kasumi: Yes, I did. I had to learn new study habits and spend time with tutors, trying to remember everything I had forgotten since high school. But Shinowara-sensei, my Composition teacher, kept tearing my papers up and saying they were awful. [frowns and viciously chops up a carrot, sending pieces flying] He did that right in front of the entire class! [notices what she is doing] Oh my, did I do that? I'm sorry, Auntie, I-- Nodoka: [giving Kasumi a hug] It's okay, dear. You've had a rough time, but it'll get better, I know it will. You're a smart young girl. Kasumi: Thank you, Auntie. Maybe I'll visit Dr. Tofu and see if he can help me. Nodoka: [pausing] You don't know about Dr. Tofu? I wrote to Ranma and Akane about him. [Kasumi begins to ask Nodoka what she means, when they are interrupted by a sudden splash from the pond. A wet and dripping Ranma-chan walks glumly into the kitchen.] Ranma-chan: Mom, can I have some hot water? I, um, fell in the pond again. Nodoka: [sighing] Did you remember to rake the sand, Ranma? Ranma-chan: Huh? Nodoka: Go back out there and fix the rock garden. I'll heat up some water for when you're done. Ranma-chan: But Mom...! Nodoka: [with a glint in her eye] That will teach you not to land in the pond. After you're done, you can help set the table. [Ranma-chan grumbles, but marches outside to rake the sand bed.] Kasumi: [putting a kettle on] I thought you didn't like Ranma to be in his girl form, Auntie. Nodoka: Kasumi-chan, after looking after Genma for these past few months, I've learned how hard it is to keep cursed people away from water. Kasumi: [giggling slightly] That's true. * * * [In the Tendo living room, Soun and Genma are already busy playing Go. Genma pauses in the game to look out at Ranma-chan busily raking the sand by the pond.] Soun: I think our children are getting along better now, Saotome-kun. Genma: [making a move] They just don't like to show it publicly, Tendo-kun. But when they are alone... [Both men laugh heartily, toasting their sake glasses.] Genma: See? I knew we did the right thing, engaging them! [turning thoughtful] I hope Ranma has been keeping up with his martial arts training. That boy can be very lazy about his responsibilities. [Soun is nodding in agreement when Akane runs down the stairs. She appears to be upset about something. They both turn to look at her.] Akane: I'm going out! Soun: But Akane, you'll miss dinner! Akane: I'm just going to Dr. Tofu's! I'll be right back! Soun: But, Akane--! [It's too late, Akane has already sprinted out the door. They stare after her. Genma turns and runs out into the yard. Soun takes advantage of this to rearrange the board.] Genma: All right, boy! What did you do to Akane? Ranma-chan: [angrily] I didn't do nothing! I just fell into the pond, that's all! Genma: Have you been letting your martial arts training slip, boy? [Genma sends a spinning kick at Ranma-chan's side. Ranma-chan dodges aside and the two begin a rapid exchange of blows, leaping all over the backyard. Ranma-chan seems a little slower than usual for sparring with Genma, however. After ten minutes of hard fighting, she fails to block one of Genma's attacks and Genma grabs her shirt. Soon Ranma-chan is flying through the air involuntarily, heading for the pond. SPLASH! She surfaces, spluttering.] Ranma-chan: What'd you do that for, Pop? Genma: You should have seen that coming a mile off, Ranma! Nodoka's voice: [from inside the house] Don't make a mess, dearest! Lunch is almost ready! Genma: If you've let your training slip-- [Ranma-chan splashes Genma in annoyance. Instant panda.] Genma-panda: Rowr roree ro roo... Ranma-chan: [smugly] What's that, Pop? I can't understand a word you're saying. Genma-panda: [realizes he can't speak, pulls out a sign] {We'll discuss this later!} [Nodoka comes out on the porch, looks at them, then sighs.] * * * [Akane runs through the streets of Nerima. She doesn't pay much attention to her surroundings at first, but slowly she begins to look around. There are little changes everywhere. There are new shops, new buildings, and new people all around her.] Akane: [thought] Wow, it really is different. I wish Ranma were here-- No, better get this over with before I lose my nerve. [She turns a corner and stops in shock. Before her is Dr. Tofu's clinic, but it is closed and boarded. From the weathered look of the boards, it has been that way for some time. A "For Lease" sign sits forlornly in one window.] Akane: [thought] What happened to Dr. Tofu? [looks around and spots a familiar-looking old lady] Excuse me, ma'am? Old Lady: [looking at Akane] Oh, hello dear... you're Akane-chan, right? Kasumi-chan's little sister? Akane: [bowing politely] Yes, ma'am. Could you tell me what happened to Dr. Tofu? Old Lady: Oh, the poor man. He left shortly after Kasumi-chan went to college. He was really sweet on your sister, you know. Akane: [blushing] I know. Old Lady: He became a Red Cross volunteer. I think he was in shock over her leaving. [sighs] Poor boy. Akane: [stunned] I never thought he'd just leave like that. Old Lady: All things change, young girl. I've seen 80 years of changes, so I should know. Akane: [bowing to leave] Thank you, ma'am. Old Lady: [bowing back] Anytime, dear. [raises her voice as Akane leaves] Stop by my house sometime for tea. Akane: Thank you, that's very kind. [Akane trots off, looking around with new interest. Behind her, the old lady hobbles down the road to her house. Once there, she picks up a pail of water and a scoop and begins to water the sidewalk.] * * * [Back at the Tendo Dojo, Ranma is sitting on the roof, thinking. He is male again, but his clothes are damp.] Ranma: [talking to himself] What if I DID get Akane pregnant? Man, I don't know if we're ready for that.... We've just stopped fighting all the time. I wish we hadn't gotten drunk. We'd have done... IT on our own, sooner or later. [He sits there thinking. He remembers the months spent with Akane at Mizunoikan and sighs.] Ranma: I wonder if Mom and Pop had so much trouble when they got married? [thinks] Pop... if Akane is pregnant, then I'll be a father. [Ranma shivers and looks a little scared at the thought.] Ranma: [aloud, looking nauseous] Well, that's better than being the mother! [looks glum suddenly] What kind of father could I be, with this curse? The kid would have to call me "Mom" half the time. [Ranma stands up and walks to the peak of the roof, where he unleashes a flurry of punches.] Ranma: StupidStupidStupidStupidStupidStupidStupid!! How could I lose control last night? [sighs] I was being stupid, again, that's how. Man, I should have known anything Lardy and Shampoo drink would be potent. I just wish I could remember. Making love to Akane... Man, what was I thinking, when I refused to sleep with her before? [He tries to imagine what it would be like, but every time he gets to the "good stuff," Akane calls him a pervert and smacks him with a mallet.] Ranma: [muttering] She's even uncute in my fantasies. Genma: [from below] Ranma! Come here, boy! I want to talk to you! [Ranma considers ignoring him, but in the end leaps down off the roof.] * * * [Akane is now wandering down the streets of Nerima, looking at all the changes that have been made. She is shocked to see Ucchan's has been replaced by a coffee house. The Nekohanten is still in place, she is relieved to see, so she steps inside. As she enters, a Chinese man greets her in accented Japanese.] Chinese Man: Welcome to the Nekohanten. Table for one? [looks closely at Akane] Oh, you are Saotome Akane, aren't you? Akane: [trying to place the man] Yes.... Excuse me, have we met? Chinese Man: [smiling] Only briefly. I think you know my daughter. Akane: You're Shampoo's father? Shampoo's Father: Yes! Hard to believe, no? My daughter takes after her mother. [He looks sad for a moment, then speaks again] I hope Shampoo isn't causing you too many problems. Akane: [unsure how to act] Um, no.... She seems pretty busy running her Nekohanten. It's pretty popular. [hesitates] Excuse me for asking, but-- Shampoo's Father: [interrupting with a smile] Why aren't I rooting for my daughter to win over young Ranma? [shakes his head] Her great-grandmother put that idea in her head. He's really not the right man for my Shampoo. Akane: What's wrong with him? [blushes as she realizes what she said.] Shampoo's Father: [another smile] Well, he's taken for one thing. also I don't think they have much in common. [leans over and whispers] Can you keep a secret? Akane: Um, sure. Shampoo's Father: Before Ranma came to our village, I was always hoping she'd let Mousse marry her one day. [sighs] The boy reminds me of myself, when I was courting Shampoo's mother. Akane: [shocked] Does Shampoo know that? Shampoo's Father: No. Her great-grandmother wouldn't hear of it. [gestures toward the rest of the Nekohanten, which is only half full] Would you like a seat? Akane: No, no... I guess I just stopped in to see how the place had changed. Shampoo's Father: Well, feel free to stop by anytime. [Akane turns to leave, then turns back briefly.] Akane: Do you ever hear from Cologne? Shampoo's Father: Thankfully, no. [Akane bows goodbye and walks out the door. She looks up into the sky and sighs. Her steps soon take her to Furinkan High School. It looks the same as ever, but Akane isn't trusting appearances now. She pauses by the school gate, looking at the sign.] Akane: [softly] "Where is Furinkan High School?" [smiles slightly] Poor Ryouga-kun. I wonder where he is now? [Some students, most of them dressed for various activities such as wrestling, kendo, and archery, start to leave the school. Some of them are running. The running ones have partially or totally shaven heads. Behind them, on a hideous day-glo skateboard, comes the Principal. He brandishes two electric razors.] Principal: KOWAAAAAAAAAAABUNGA! [The Principal takes a swipe at one of the students with the razor. Everyone flees in terror, then a voice interrupts.] Voice: Stop delinquents! Happou Fifty-Yen Satsu! [Akane sees Hinako-sensei draining the combatants. Whether they want to or not, everyone matching Hinako-sensei's definition of delinquent (i.e., anyone in sight, including the Principal :) stops as she drains them of their fighting energy. Akane ducks behind the school wall and is missed. When she peeks around again, Hinako-sensei is in her adult form, stalking through the pile of drained students.] Akane: Well, SOME things haven't changed. [Hinako-sensei looks up and sees Akane. Akane tries to duck out of sight, but it does no good.] Hinako: [to Akane] Ah, Saotome-san! [walks over] I see you are home from college. [gives Akane a Look] Or are you skipping class? Akane: [a little flustered] We just began our break, Hinako-sensei. Hinako: [smiling] Good! I'm happy to see that both you and Ranma have become fine, productive students. Are you going home now? Akane: Um... yes. Hinako: Good! May I walk with you, Saotome-san? Akane: [confused] Sure, I guess... [thought] What is she up to now? * * * [In the Tendo Dojo, Genma is facing Ranma across a mat. Ranma has a distracted look on his face as Genma rants on and on.] Genma: --and how do you explain your grades, Ranma? Your mother was grief- stricken to see those marks! Ranma: Hey, what do you know about it, Pop? Besides, it's only one D in Sociology. I got A's and B's in everything else. Mom was proud of those. Genma: A martial artist can't fail in anything, boy! [Ranma takes up a defensive position. Genma matches him.] Ranma: When was the last time you saw a Martial Arts Sociologist, Pop? [thinks for a moment] On second thought, don't answer that. Genma: Now we will see how much your martial arts training has suffered from that lazy attitude of yours. Kiyah! [Genma launches himself, twisting in mid-air so that his foot leads the way. Ranma also springs up into the air and blocks the kick with a forearm while lashing out with a kick of his own. Genma counters by grabbing Ranma's leg in mid-kick and rolling with the attack. He uses his momentum to fling Ranma at the far wall. Ranma hits the ground with a thud.] Genma: I knew it! You've been slacking off, boy! Is this how you honor the School of Anything Goes Martial Arts? Ranma: [red-faced] Shut up, old man! You were just lucky, that's all! Genma: I may be older than you, boy, but I'm also better than you! You're in pitiful shape! Ranma: [angry] SHUT UP! [Ranma tries to launch an attack at Genma, but Genma dodges aside.] Genma: Pathetic. [Nabiki walks in and watches the fight while nibbling on a cookie. Ranma grits his teeth. He gains control of his temper and his attacks improve, forcing Genma to block more of them. His defense firms up as well, but to Nabiki's trained eye, it's obvious that Ranma is not doing as well against Genma as he would have before going to college. While he blocks most of Genma's hits, a surprising number (i.e. any) get through. Ranma also seems distracted at times, causing his forms to slip. He corrects them as soon as Genma gets a hit in, however. Against anyone else, Ranma would be fine, but Genma knows all his son's moves and Ranma is reluctant to use his special techniques in a sparring match. Finally Genma stops.] Genma: Enough. This isn't getting us anywhere, Ranma. Ranma: [breathing heavily] Says... you. Genma: Your ki is severely unbalanced. College alone couldn't be responsible for that. Are you and Akane getting along okay? [leers] She keeping you up at night, boy? Ranma: Pop! It ain't like that! I've got studying and homework and stuff to do at college! Nabiki: [interrupting] I hear they had some fun last night, Uncle Saotome. [Ranma notices Nabiki for the first time and his face goes cold. He doesn't even say a word before turning around on his heel and walking out of the dojo. Nabiki glares after him.] Genma: I thought this might happen. [Nabiki breaks off the glare and looks curiously at Genma.] Nabiki: What, Uncle? Genma: The marital arts do not mix well with the martial arts, Nabiki-chan. Being married can distract a martial artist and disrupt his ki. It was because of that I took Ranma from his mother at a tender age so as to raise him as a proper martial artist. Nabiki: [sarcastically] And we all know what a great decision THAT was. Genma: [trying to look noble] What I did was all for Ranma's sake. Nabiki: Yeah, whatever.... * * * [The roof of the Tendo house. Ranma is sitting on it, sulking and staring at nothing.] Ranma: [thought] What does the old man know about it, anyway? I just haven't been able to practice, that's all. Being married to Akane can't be the reason, right? We haven't even DONE anything yet... Well, not that we remember doing. [Ranma looks depressed.] Nodoka: [from below] Ranma! Where are you? [He gives a start and runs down the side of the roof. When he reaches the edge, he flips over, catching the gutter with his feet. Nodoka is inside. She gives a start as he appears suddenly hanging upside down outside Akane's and his window.] Nodoka: Ranma! Don't scare me like that. Come inside, son. I want to talk to you. Ranma: [a little sullenly] What is it, Mom? [Ranma flips himself inside the room.] Nodoka: [sitting on the bed] Your father told me he had spoken to you. I was just wondering if there was anything you wanted to talk about. Ranma: [shuffling his feet] Not really, Mom. Nodoka: So everything is fine between you and Akane-chan? Ranma: [blushing slightly] Mom! Everything's just fine. The old man doesn't know what he's talking about, as usual. We're getting along pretty well. We haven't done nothing for him to get all worked up over. Nodoka: "Anything." Ranma: Huh? Nodoka: You "haven't done anything." Really, Ranma, I wish your father had stressed your regular studies more while he had you on the road. Ranma: [sarcastically] Another one of the old man's wonderful ideas. Nodoka: [looking at him seriously] Is something bothering you, Ranma? Your grades? Ranma: No, it's not that, Mom. Nodoka: Would you like to talk about it? Ranma: [blushing] Um, it's... well... [He begins to press his fingers together.] [Nodoka looks at him shrewdly, then folds her hands in her lap.] Nodoka: [smiling] I see. How long have you and Akane been having sex? Ranma: [embarrassed] Mom! [twiddles his thumbs] Um, we got a little drunk last night and woke up in bed together, without some clothes... [starts to babble] Now, Akane's worried that she may have gotten pregnant and I don't think-- Nodoka: Calm down, Ranma. There are ways to find this out. I'll talk to Akane-chan. Ranma: Um, do you have to? Nodoka: [looking surprised] Of course, Ranma. Don't you want to know if you'll be a father or not? [She looks at her son calmly] The idea IS a little frightening, isn't it? Ranma: Y--I mean, I'm just getting used to being with an uncute tomboy like AKANE all the time. I don't know if we're ready to have kids yet. Nodoka: [looking amused] "Yet?" It sounds like you've already made a decision, Ranma. [She hugs him.] Don't worry, my son. It'll all work out, so long as you and Akane love each other. [She leaves. Once she turns away from Ranma, however, her confident demeanor disappears and she looks slightly worried. Ranma stands there, looking after her in surprise. He sits on the bed, deep in thought.] * * * [Akane and Hinako-sensei enter the Tendo house, taking off their shoes. Hinako is still in her adult form, and Akane is looking at her in some surprise.] Akane: [calling out] I'm home! [to Hinako] Um, excuse me, Hinako-sensei... I thought you couldn't stay... er, like that for so long...? Hinako: [smiling] I've been training to extend the time. It shows, doesn't it? [Akane looks at Hinako's stunning figure and declines to comment. Nodoka walks down the stairs and sees them.] Nodoka: Hinako-san! How nice to see you! Hinako: [bowing formally, then giving the older woman a hug] Thank you, Nodoka-san. Do you mind if I stay for dinner? I have some things to discuss with Soun-chan. Akane: [to herself] "Soun-chan?" Nodoka: Of course you can. I'm sure Tendo-san will be happy to see you. [turns to Akane] Did you know, Akane, that Hinako-sensei is the chairwoman of your father's campaign? Hinako: [blushing] It's just a little thing. Akane: Campaign? Nodoka: He's running for Mayor of Nerima. Didn't Ranma tell you? I know I wrote him about it. Akane: [growling] No, he didn't. [Nodoka looks at Akane carefully, then turns back to Hinako.] Nodoka: Hinako-san, Tendo-san and my husband are playing Shogi on the porch, why don't you go talk to them while I have a word with my daughter-in-law? [Hinako nods and strolls out. Akane looks at Nodoka, then down at the floor.] Nodoka: Akane-chan, is there anything you'd like to talk about? [Akane doesn't meet Nodoka's eyes, looking away and twiddling her fingers.] Akane: T-talk about? I don't think there's anything-- [Nodoka smiles and drags the younger woman towards the kitchen.] Nodoka: Come on, dear. You can help Kasumi and I with dinner while we talk. [She leads Akane into the kitchen. Kasumi is, strangely enough, nowhere to be seen. Nodoka looks around, then turns slowly to Akane.] Nodoka: Do you mind helping me prepare dinner, Akane-chan? Akane: [suddenly twiddling her thumbs] I don't know, Auntie... I'm still not very good. Nodoka: I know you've improved, cooking for Ranma over the semester. He's mentioned it in his letters. Akane: R-really? Nodoka: Of course. [thinks to herself] If "less toxic" can count as "improvement." Ranma, my son, it is a good thing you don't let Akane-chan read all your letters. [Akane gets out an apron and puts it on. Nodoka watches her slice up the vegetables and notes with approval that she is taking her time and not slicing up the cutting board. Nodoka then puts a pot of water on the stove to boil.] Nodoka: So, Akane-chan, how are things going for you? [Akane tenses slightly and her chopping rhythm slows noticeably.] Akane: Oh... fine, fine. Nodoka: [looking at Akane shrewdly] Are you sure? You ran out of here pretty quickly earlier. [Akane puts down her knife. She turns and looks at Nodoka tearfully.] Akane: Auntie, I think Ranma and I made a big mistake last night. * * * [Akane and Ranma's room at night. Ranma is lying on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Akane steps quietly inside the room. Ranma doesn't notice her at first.] Akane: [softly] Ranma? Ranma: [looking up] Oh, hi Akane. [Akane walks over and sits on the bed beside Ranma.] Akane: Were you sleeping? You didn't answer when your mother called for dinner. Ranma: No. Just thinking. Up on the roof. I wasn't very hungry. [Akane reaches out and hesitantly takes his hand.] Akane: What about? Ranma: My parents, my childhood... stuff like that. [There is an uncomfortable silence.] Akane: Is this because of what we talked about earlier? Ranma: Yeah. I was thinking about how Pop messed up my childhood. It wasn't all bad, but all the running around, stealing, [pauses and grimaces] selling me into engagements... I don't want any kid of mine to go through that. [Ranma looks at Akane.] I especially don't want that kid to be separated from his mother like I was. [Akane squeezes Ranma's hand slightly.] Akane: Or from his father? Ranma: [nodding slightly] Or from his father. [hesitates] Akane, if you ARE pregnant... I want you to know I'll be here for you, OK? [Ranma steels himself, as if for battle] Ranma: I love you, Akane. [Akane is a little shocked at the suddenness of his announcement. Her eyes begin to fill with tears and she reaches up to wipe them away. She smiles down at Ranma.] Akane: Ranma, I love you, too. But I may not be pregnant. Ranma: I can get a job and we can--Huh? Akane: [nodding] Well, we won't be sure until I have my next... you know. Auntie and Kasumi talked to me about it. It's still possible, but I just had my period a week or so ago, so it's not likely. Auntie and Kasumi helped me calm down and see things through. [Ranma sighs. Akane lies down on the bed and curls up next to him. She is moving hesitantly, apparently nervous about what she is doing. Ranma tenses up slightly, but doesn't say anything. The two lie there for a bit. Ranma slowly puts one arm around Akane, his heart beating rapidly. She tenses slightly, but lets him do it.] Ranma: Akane... -chan? [Akane looks up at him, her own heart beating very quickly. She tries to calm down and answer him, but her voice quavers a little.] Akane: Yes, Ranma? Ranma: Would you...Um, I'd like... Do you want to spar with me? Akane: [surprised] Now? Ranma: [quickly] No, not now. I mean, since we've been at Mizunoikan, I've lost my edge. Pop says it's because of our marriage. [Akane frowns and sits up slightly.] Akane: And you agree with him? Ranma: No, no! I just think... well, if we sparred together, we could both stay in shape. I could try to teach you my special moves. I never tried to teach them to anyone, and when... IF we have kids one day, I'm gonna have to teach them. Akane: [relaxing slightly] You've never really wanted to spar with me before. Except for when I fought Kodachi, maybe. Ranma: I know. But I need to get back in shape. I was thinking of Pop, and realized that if Mom and he had both practiced martial arts... Akane, if I took my son on a training trip, I'd want you to come along. Akane: Do you mean it, Ranma? Ranma: Yeah, so long as you don't cook. [Akane stiffens in his grasp and Ranma realizes he went a little too far in trying to make a joke.] Akane: My cooking is NOT that bad! Everyone enjoyed dinner tonight. Ranma: Man, I'm glad I missed it then. Akane: And what's this about Hinako-sensei and my Dad? Your mother wrote you about them and you never mentioned it to me! Ranma: Oh... um, well, I forgot. It didn't really seem that important-- Akane: Not important?! [She glares at him and brings up her fist. He does likewise.] Ranma and Akane: [while shaking their fists] 1, 2, 3! [Akane sticks out her hand, palm flat. Ranma forms a pair of scissors with his. Ranma grins and Akane scowls. Her scowl melts into a small grin after a few moments, however. Soon they are both laughing at their own antics.] Akane: OK, you win that one. I'd like to go with you, Ranma. I'm a martial artist, too. I guess I can understand about you not telling me what your mother wrote. I forgot to tell you a few things too. Ranma: Like what? [Akane just grins impishly and says nothing. Ranma sighs.] Maybe you can try and teach me that Phoenix thing. Akane: [exasperated] I told you, Ranma, I don't know HOW I did it. It could have all been because of the spirit world or something. Ranma: [stubbornly] Can't hurt to try, right? Akane: [smiling] OK, but don't complain if you can't master it. Ranma: Hey, I can do anything! [He pauses.] Except... I still can't remember much of last night. [The two of them look into each others eyes, moving a little closer together.] Akane: Neither can I. Maybe we didn't do... IT last night. Ranma: I hope not. Akane: [flatly] Why not? Ranma: Because I'd like to remember our first time together. Akane: [looks shocked for a moment, then starts to smile] I... me, too, Ranma. Ranma: You really are cute when you smile, Akane. [The two lean together into a kiss. However, Akane holds her face in the wrong position, so their noses bump. They both try to correct and bump again. Finally, amidst giggles, they settle into a kiss, one that lasts quite a while. When they finally break it, they look questioningly into each other's eyes.] Ranma: Akane, can we--? Akane: Do you want to--? [They both blush and hug each other even more tightly. Akane strokes his hair gently and they lie there for a while, not talking, just looking at each other. Finally, Akane scoots a little closer to Ranma, who moves a little closer to her.] Ranma: Do you think it's a good idea...? I mean... Akane: [nodding] Well, we ARE married. I think we've put it off for too long. If we l-love each other, we can.... And Kasumi gave me some... items that we can use. Ranma: Kasumi? Akane: [giggling] Believe it or not, yes. Ranma: [sounding nervous] Are you sure we're ready for this? I mean... Akane: [hugging him] Ranma, I don't want a repeat of last night. I want it to be special, not an accident. [She blushes and thinks to herself] I wanted us to do this earlier, but I was too proud to admit it... and Ranma freaked even at the idea of sleeping as a man with me. [Aloud] Are YOU ready now? [Ranma swallows several times, then nods.] Ranma: [nervously] I don't mind... if you don't. Akane: [looks a little disgruntled, then giggles] Oh, Ranma! [The couple kiss again, this one lasting even longer than the other. Akane's hands move slowly to the ties on Ranma's shirt and begin to fumble with them while he reaches down awkwardly to unzip her skirt. Their breathing and heartbeats are quickening as they begin to realize exactly how long they've both been waiting for this. They stop suddenly when they hear a clatter from outside the door. Ranma leaps off the bed and pulls open the door to reveal Nodoka, Genma, Soun, Hinako, Nabiki, and Kasumi all beaming at each other in the hallway.] Hinako: [in her young form, glomping onto Soun's arm] The young couple! Isn't it romantic, Soun-chan? Nodoka: [tears in her eyes] My son is finally a man! Genma: It's about time, right, Tendo-kun? Soun: [bawling] Oh, happy day! [He looks at Hinako.] Um, should you really... [She ignores him.] Kasumi: [wiping her eyes] Oh, I'm so happy for Akane. Nabiki: Never thought Ranma had it in him. [Ranma stands there, blushing. Akane comes up behind him, fixing her clothes and looking flustered. Ranma finally finds his voice and glares at everyone, including the audience. :)] Ranma: Don't you guys got nothing better to do?? [He slams the door shut. Everyone looks at each other and begins to laugh as they leave the young couple alone... almost. Several times that night, Nodoka has to stop Genma and Soun from disturbing the young couple with their celebration.] =============================================================================== finis. =============================================================================== There's word on the street again The rumours come flyin' She's up to her old ways again And another one is cryin' No-one understands She's a dif'rent person now No-one lends a hand To listen to her now Days going by, hopelessness in your heart Never look back, never break apart Somebody loves you Now and forever And you're not alone now If only you'll remember That somebody loves you Waiting patiently Somebody loves you Look and you will see Somebody loves you ... (Somebody) Somebody like me. =============================================================================== Credits : Writers..............: Jeffrey Paul Hosmer David Tai Paul Gallegos John Walter Biles Special Thanks to....: The Tucson Animation Screening Society (TASS) And of course Rumiko Takahashi +-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ | Copyright (c) 1997 Digital Knight Communications | +-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ | "Ranma 1/2" and its characters Copyright (c) 1997 | | Viz Communications, Inc., Shogakukan, Kitty Animation | | and Rumiko Takahashi | +-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+ ===============================================================================