I've been searching to find What makes me try again But I don't see the connection Between love and a man I'm looking for a missing person One that I used to know There was one of two That was me and you But now there's a new place to go Help me find my way Please God don't let me go 'Cause I'm still looking Looking for that missing person I oughta know +-----------------------------------------------------------+ | Daigakusei no Ukyou: As You Like It | | | | Created by David Tai, Paul Gallegos, | | John Walter Biles and Jeff Hosmer | | | | Based on the characters created by Rumiko Takahashi | +-----------------------------------------------------------+ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Episode 12: "When It Rains..." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Opening shot: a street on the border of the college. The skies are filled with dark, rolling clouds, and raindrops fall at a light but steady pace. The occasional car drives by the street, splashing a wave over a prone body lying face-down in the gutter on the side of the street. Slowly zoom in on the body, revealing it to be Ukyou Kuonji.] [change view to underwater, looking at Ukyou's face. Her eyes are open, her mouth set in a frown. She looks tired, resigned to her situation.] Ukyou: [voiceover] I gotta say, Megami, this wasn't what I was expecting when I got outta bed this morning. It was supposed to be a normal day. No rivals, no duels, no spirits or alternate realities or deities telling me what to do. Just me, the textbooks, and an impending exam. It started off so normally... * * * [SCENE: 6:30AM, Ukyou & Makiko's bedroom. The alarm clock on Ukyou's nightstand goes off, beeping loudly. Makiko, in her bed, turns and groans. Ukyou pulls the sheets over her head. A minute passes, in which the alarm clock mercilessly continues to beep.] Makiko: Nnng... oi, Ucchan. Ukyou: [from under her blanket] MMmf. Makiko: Ucchan, turn off th'larm rrredy. [Ukyou's hand emerges from under the blankets, fumbling around for the alarm clock. She hits the 'snooze' button, which fails to deactivate the alarm. She taps it a few more times, and again the alarm does not turn off. She fumbles around the alarm clock more, finding the off switch. She flicks the switch... and the alarm still fails to turn off.] Makiko: Oi! Ukyou: Nnnng. [Ukyou's arm disappears back under the blankets. A moment later, the arm reappears with Ukyou's trademark spatula in hand. With a swift movement, it smashes the alarm clock. Silence finally returns to the bedroom.] Makiko: Thank you. Ukyou: Nn. [Both settle back into their beds. And then Makiko's alarm clock goes off.] Ukyou: Oi! Makiko: Waah. * * * [Scene: The kitchen. Ukyou is cooking breakfast, while Makiko sits at the kitchen table and reads over a book.] Ukyou: What's with you this morning? Makiko: Hm? Ukyou: Normally you're bright-eyed in the morning. Today you're as bad as me. Makiko [yawns] Up all night. Study group. Ukyou: [teasing] This study group wouldn't have had Lardy innit, would it? Hmmmm? Makiko: Shush, you. [Ukyou snickers] Makiko: [rolls her eyes] Aaaanyway... Don'cha love the way they schedule it so that all the exams are at on the same week? Ukyou: I got three on the same _day_, Maki-chan. _Three_. Makiko: Sucks to be you. Ukyou: I know, I know. [Ukyou finishes grilling, bringing two steaming plates of okonomiyaki to the table. Makiko sighs as she digs into hers.] Makiko: [with a stuffed mouth] Sho, wha's yr 'sams? Ukyou: Ah... pre-cal, comp two, intro to classic lit. Makiko: When? Ukyou: [grins sheepishly] Ah... tomorrow. Makiko: [frowns] You haven't studied much, have you? Ukyou: [whining] I've tried, but lately it's always _something_. Makiko: Oh, that's true. Like that takiyoki guy that challenged you to a duel yesterday? Ukyou: And Crepe Joe two days before that. Makiko: And then there was the haunted kitchen thing that you got dragged into. Ukyou: [mutters] Sato no baka. [Ukyou sighs and rests her chin on her palm, idly toying with her food.] Ukyou: How'd I get myself into this mess? Makiko: Well, it certainly didn't help that you decided to pile on three classes on the same days. Ukyou: I honestly don't know what I was thinking. Anyway, Once I get today's class outta the way, it's study time for me. * * * [Scene: large auditorium filled with students. Ukyou sits near the front taking notes. She looks distinctly bored and disinterested.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Not a bad start to the day, I thought. The class was boring, like it usually was. [Ukyou yawns, then shakes her head and writes more notes as the professor on stage continues to lecture. She reaches down for a soda, drinks it, then slumps back into her seat.] Ukyou: [voiceover] But that's hardly a good measure of things. I know a lot of people who really get bored of the stuff they're doing. Like Maki-chan, for instance. There's no doubt she's born to mess with computers, but the way she whines about her classes sometimes... [Ukyou scratches the back of her head, stretches, then takes more notes. She slowly closes her eyes, then falls asleep, leaning back in her chair as she does. An eraser smacks Ukyou in the head, knocking her off her chair.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Anyway, after two hours my class was done, and it was back to the apartment for me to catch up on some long overdue reading. * * * [Scene: Ukyou & Makiko's bedroom. Ukyou is sitting at her desk, reading a very thick book.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Classic literature, stories of romance, adventure, and all that great stuff. Gotta admit, though, that after having my wild high school days with Ranchan, they don't seem so wild at all. That's not to say every day is wild... no. But there are moments... [The sound of machine-gun fire and agonized screams come from outside. Ukyou winces, gets up, then goes to the living room where Makiko is sitting happily, a game controller in hand, and gore splattered all over her screen] Ukyou: [voiceover] though those moments are... not quite the same as they used to be. Ukyou: Hey, Maki-chan! Turn down the volume, huh? Makiko: Oh! Sorry about that, Ucchan! [Ukyou returns to the bedroom, closes her door and opens her book] Ukyou: [voiceover] This little peace would last me a few hours. Maybe it's because I don't study well when I try to cram, and let's face it, this was cramming, but I found myself staring at the pages and not the words. Yeah, it was the cramming. Maybe if I went at it long enough, or maybe I just needed a little break or something. As it turned out, the 'or something' was about to come knocking. [There's a knock at the door. Ukyou looks up.] Ukyou: Maki-chan? Ranma: [from outside] It's, ah, me. Ukyou: Ran-chan? [Ukyou opens the door. A very sullen Ranma stands at the doorway] Ranma: [subdued voice] Ucchan? Ukyou: [frowning] Ran-chan? Hey, what's wrong? Ranma: [sighs] Me'n Akane got in a fight again. [Ranma enters the room, followed by Ukyou. Ranma takes a seat on Makiko's bed, while Ukyou sits on hers, and they begin to talk.] Ukyou: [voiceover] I'm gonna spare you the details, really. Besides, it was a private thing. Anyway, what was I supposed to do, turn Ran-chan away? No matter how things turned out, he's still... still my friend. Anyway, I listen to the guy for an hour while he pours his heart out, nod when I oughta nod, toss in the occasional observation... Ukyou: Look, Ran-chan, I'll go have a talk with Akane, okay? Ranma: [hopefully] Really? You will? Ukyou: Hey, leave it to Ucchan, alright sugar? Ranma: Thanks, Ucchan! Ukyou: [voiceover] I know, I know, I have three killer exams tomorrow and I haven't studied nearly enough. But these are my friends, y'know what I mean? * * * [Scene: Ranma and Akane's apartment. Ukyou is sitting with an upset Akane in the kitchen, talking] Ukyou: [voiceover] So I went over to Akane, straightened things out, did the whole good friend bit. Hey, Megami, you listening? Am I getting some points for this? I know, I know, sounds shallow, but I'd be doing this anyway even if I weren't. Ukyou: C'mon, Akane. You know how dense he can get sometimes. Akane: [looking uncertain] But he... Ukyou: Hey, he's really sorry about this. C'mon, give the lunkhead a chance. Communicate a little, y'know? Gotta open the channels of communication, otherwise y'never gonna reach an understanding with your partner on the terms of your relationship, build on that quality time... damn, that sociology class is getting to my head. Akane: [laughs] Okay, okay, I'll go talk to him. Where is he? Ukyou: Actually, he oughta be pacing around downstairs. [puts a hand on Akane's shoulder] Go talk to him. Akane: [nods] I will. Thanks, Ukyou. [Akane hugs Ukyou, then they both leave the apartment. Outside, Akane walks up to Ranma, and both begin to reluctantly and apologetically talk. In the distance, Ukyou walks away, whistling.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Heh, those two are impossible sometimes. The way they bicker and fight, I gotta wonder if it's some kinda fetish. The whole marriage counselor routine is getting kinda old, but hey, gotta do what I gotta do. Anyway, now that the daily emergency is out of the way, it was time for me to get back to studying... or so I thought. * * * [Scene: Ukyou & Makiko's room. Ukyou is sitting at the desk, reading over a book while taking notes. Makiko is merrily humming a tune as she adjusts her shirt and skirt.] Makiko: Hey, Ucchan, how's this look? Ukyou: Looks perfect for your date, Maki-chan. Makiko: [blushes] It's not a date! We're just going out somewhere together, that's all! Ukyou: [mock-sad tone] Oh, go ahead, leave me all on my lonesome here, I have my books to keep me company. Makiko: [giggles] Fine, fine, next time we'll invite our friends and have a girl's night out, okay? Ukyou: Hm. Now there's an idea. [Someone knocks on the door. Makiko and Ukyou pause] Ukyou: Think that's yer 200 proof date, Maki-chan. Makiko: [baps Ukyou in the head] Oh, stop it. Ukyou: [giggles] G'won, get outta here. Have fun, ya crazy woman. Makiko: Seeya, Ucchan! [Makiko leaves the room. Ukyou shakes her head, sighs, then returns to her books.] Ukyou: Okay, back to work. [An hour passes, in which Ukyou flips through books and takes notes. As she does, she noticeably fidgets. At last, she throws her pencil in the air.] Ukyou: Eh. That's it. I need a break. [Ukyou gets up, stretches, then leaves the room.] * * * [Scene: a street along the border of the university. Trees line the sidewalks, along with a few pedestrians and joggers. The street has a few vehicles traveling through it now and then. Ukyou walks down the sidewalk, looking restless.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Hey, I'll have you know that by this point I had classic Japanese literature down pat. I still had the rest of the day, and the other two courses weren't that hard. Hey, I deserved a break, right? Anyway, I was restless, and I still didn't understand why. [Ukyou wanders aimlessly, walking block after block, until a voice catches her attention.] Hitomi: Ukyou-san? [Ukyou blinks, then looks at Hitomi.] Ukyou: Oh, Hitomi-san. What're you doing here? Hitomi: [points to the building to her left - the Chez Funsui] Just going to work. What're you doing here? Ukyou: [absently] Just... wandering... around... I guess. Hitomi: Come on in and have a drink? * * * [Scene: window seat of Chez Funsui. Ukyou sits, with a tall glass of tea in hand. Hitomi sits across from her.] Hitomi: You okay, Ukyou-san? You look kind of... odd. Ukyou: Odd? Hitomi: Like something's on your mind. Ukyou: Oh. Yeah. Exams, three of them tomorrow. Hitomi: [eyes widening] Good luck. Ukyou: [nods] Yeah, I'll need it. Been trying to study all day, but... I dunno... it's not sinking in. I feel restless, like there's something I forgot. Like... I dunno. Whatever. I'm sure I'll get over it. I'm just taking a break from studying right now. Hitomi: Oh... well.. maybe you'll feel better after this little break. Just needed a little fresh air, maybe. [A tall, thin pimply-faced young man with thick glasses mopping the floor nearby calls out.] Man: Hey, Hitomi, they need you in the back. Hitomi: [sighs] Well, work calls. [Ukyou watches as Hitomi goes to the back, then re-emerges later with a large box. She watches as Hitomi stocks the supplies, and as her co-workers go about the business of running Chez Funsui.] Ukyou: [voiceover] At that moment, I found myself thinking about how to run Chez Funsui. What to order, when to order, what kind of restocking schedule would be best. I wondered what their profit was, and how much the upkeep might have been. I realized, for the first time in a long time, that I really and truly missed running Ucchan's. [Ukyou frowns, shaking her head] Ukyou: [voiceover] But that was ancient history. I didn't want to be stuck living in the past. [Ukyou stands up, leaving money on the table. She waves to Hitomi.] Ukyou: Hey, Hitomi-san, see you later. Hitomi: Good luck on your exams, Ukyou-san! Ukyou: [smiles] Thanks, I'll need it. * * * [Scene: Ukyou & Makiko's bedroom. Ukyou is once again at her desk, taking notes and flipping through pages. The sun outside is on the horizon, a large red sphere sinking into darkness.] Ukyou: [looks at notes, frowning] Where'd I put the notes for... hm. What the heck? [digs through her folders] Ah, there it i- [A large *BOOM* rattles the windows of her room, causing Ukyou to sit straight up in alarm. It's followed by another, then another, in constant repetition. A moment later, the booms are accompanied by music and the faint sound of rapping. Ukyou stomps to the window, looks out, and stares at a car cruising slowly outside.] Ukyou: [narrows eyes] Oh, great. Boom cars. [She walks over to her closet, then returns to the windows with two handfuls of throwing spatulas.] Ukyou: QUIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!!! [She throws spatula after spatula out the window, and the sound of metal impacting on metal and glass is heard. A moment later, the sound of screeching tires and a car speeding away is heard. Ukyou sighs.] Ukyou: Much better. [She returns to her desk, takes a deep breath, then returns to her studying.] Ukyou: [mutters] substitute two for Y and... I don't get the right answer. Crap. [Minutes pass as Ukyou hammers away at her calculator, writing, erasing, and writing again. The sun sinks below the horizon, leaving all outside in darkness. The room is lit by Ukyou's desk lamp, as she frantically tries to solve the math problem.] Ukyou: [snaps fingers] A-ha! I got i- [The lights die. The room is totally dark, aside from a ray of moonlight coming in from the window.] Ukyou: Oh, you have GOT to be KIDDING me! [In total darkness, the sounds of Ukyou fumbling about are heard. She makes it to the window, and peers outside.] Ukyou: Ah. Neighborhood blackout. Greeeeeat. [Ukyou moves away from the window, into the darkness. Sounds of items being shuffled/stepped on/kicked can be heard. Suddenly, a loud thump is heard.] Ukyou: OW! Dammit! [The rustling sound of movement continues after a while, then stops. Light from a flashlight suddenly appears, held in Ukyou's hand. Flashlight in hand, she moves back to her desk and shines the light on her textbook. She resumes scribbling for a few minutes, then stops.] Ukyou: This just isn't working. [With flashlight in hand, Ukyou packs her books and papers into a backpack, then heads out to leave the room. Before she leaves the door, she pauses, peering at Makiko's night table. The clock still functions, showing 8:45 p.m.] Ukyou: Huh? [She fiddles with the light switch, which gives no results.] Ukyou: Must be one of those battery backup clocks or something. Oh well. [Ukyou leaves the room. She steps outside, looks down the street, then sighs. Five blocks down, the lights are on, but beyond that point the electricity is out.] Ukyou: [sighs] Of course, this would hit me. Where the heck am I gonna go to study? * * * [Scene: Kasumi & Yuriko's apartment. Ukyou is reading her books in the kitchen table, while a short distance away, Kasumi watches television while knitting. From upstairs, the sounds of power tools occasionally reverberate through the house.] Ukyou: [Looks up and shudders] If Yuriko makes another evil duplicate of me, I'm gonna be real upset. Kasumi: [soothingly] I'm sure she won't make that mistake again, Ukyou. Ukyou: [turning back to her books] Never say never, Kasumi. Never say never. [Ukyou spends the next thirty minutes reading.] Ukyou: [thinks] Kasumi's, I should have thought of it in the first place. Nothing bad ever happens to Kasumi. Yeah, this was a great idea... [The apartment shudders as an explosion shudders from the second floor] Ukyou: [thinks] Then again, there's always Yuriko. Kasumi: [looking upstairs] Yuriko? Are you okay? Yuriko: [from upstairs] Stay back! It's outta control! Ukyou: [snaps the pencil in her hand] Oh, for goodness sakes, what now?! [Ukyou gets up from her chair and exits the kitchen. A second later she steps back into the kitchen, grabbing two spatulas. She rushes up the stairs, into Yuriko's laboratory. The room is a mess, with furniture shattered and chemicals spilled. At the center of the room stands a robotic figure, looking distinctly like Yuriko. Behind it is Yuriko, on the ground and looking a little frazzled.] Ukyou: You've gotta be kidding me. Yuriko: No, Robo-Yuri! Stop! Ukyou: [dryly] Robo. Yuri. Riiiiight. Robo-Yuriko: Halt. Halt. You will be experimented on. Resistance is futile. [Ukyou holds both spatulas firmly in hand, grim determination on her face.] Ukyou: C'mon then, let's go! [Ukyou charges at Robo-Yuriko. A moment later, the room explodes into flames.] * * * [Scene: the Nekohanten Bar & Grill. Ukyou sits in a corner with a glass of tea, reading over her books. At the register, Shampoo and Mousse are having a heated discussion. Ukyou takes a moment to eye the arguing duo warily.] Ukyou: [thinking] Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. [Meanwhile, at the register, Mousse and Shampoo continue to argue.] Mousse: Is it really such a bad idea? She just needs a place to study for a little while. Shampoo: [narrowed eyes] Mousse paying for spatula-girl's tea. Mousse: [sighs] Okay, okay, I will. Shampoo: [turns away and walks into the kitchen] Hmph. Ukyou: Hey Mousse, c'mere. [Mousse goes to her table.] Ukyou: Look, if she's giving you too much grief, I can just find somewhere else to go. Mousse: No, it's no trouble. Look, you've got three exams coming up tomorrow, so just study. Don't worry about me, don't worry about Shampoo, just study. Ukyou: [hesitates] Well.... are you sure? Mousse: [nods] I'm sure. Ukyou: [smiles] Thanks, sugar. Mousse: No prob- [Suddenly, the doors burst open. A dozen ninjas flood into the room. One, noticably shorter than the rest, steps forward.] Ukyou: Nononono... Short Ninja: [points dramatically at Mousse] You! Where is the matriarch's great-granddaughter! Mousse: [snapping into a fighting stance] Why should I answer your questions! Ukyou: [muttering to herself] Am I back in Nerima? Is that what this is? Short Ninja: [shakes fist angrily] We of the blue dragon ninja clan are here to avenge the wrongs inflicted upon us by the Joketsuzo! Now Where is th- [Shampoo kicks the door of the kitchen open, looking irate.] Shampoo: Stupid Mousse! Keep noise dow- who this? Mousse: Ninjas. Ukyou: [sighs and taps Mousse on the shoulder] Hey, mind if I raid your kitchen for some spatulas? Shampoo: Mousse no listen to spatula girl! Shampoo talking here! Short Ninja: Hey! Excuse me! Mousse: What's your problem? Short Ninja: Um, hello? Raiding party of ninjas here! Shampoo: [crosses arms, scowls] Maybe duck-boy want privacy with spatula-girl. Shampoo no care! Short Ninja: Don't ignore me, dammit! Mousse: If you don't care, then stop complaining! Ukyou: [muttering to herself] Knew I shoulda brought my spatula. Short Ninja: Hey, we're still here, y'know! Shampoo: [cracking knuckles, narrowing eyes] Duck-boy forget his place as amazon male! Shampoo put you back where you belong! Short Ninja: That's it! Everyone! Attack! [The ninjas spring into action. Shampoo springs into action. Mousse springs into action. Ukyou watches all of this and sighs.] Ukyou: Aw man, can't I get any peace and quiet? [She watches as Mousse and Shampoo fight each other, managing to batter and bludgeon any unfortunate ninjas that are caught in the fray.] Ukyou: [thinks] Well... looks like they've got this situation in control, though I got a feeling this just ain't gonna work out for me here for the rest of the night. Mousse: Take this, Shampoo! Flying Ninja Attack! [He grabs an unconscious ninja and flings it at Shampoo.] Shampoo: Ha! Mousse weak! Double Flying Ninja Attack! [Shampoo grabs the two ninjas that are attacking her, and flings them towards Mousse. One ninja slams into the one Mousse threw, the other rockets towards Mousse, who knocks him away with a ball and chain pulled from his sleeve.] Ukyou: Hey Mousse! I'm just gonna go somewhere else, okay? Mousse: [dodging a table thrown by Shampoo] Sorry about this! Ukyou: Don't worry about it, sugar! Seeya! * * * [Scene: Ukyou stands before Maison Sabuku, looking tired, sore, and defeated. In the background, the sounds of conversation, bicycles, and cars can be heard.] Ukyou: [voiceover] At this point, I was desperate, but I wasn't fooling myself about what I'd end up dealing with. This was my former true love and his wife here. There's always going to be a little bit of awkward feeling there, somewhere.] [Ukyou enters the apartment complex, climbs up the stairs, and knocks on the door reluctantly. The door opens, and Akane answers the door with a smile.] Akane: Ukyou! Come on in! Ukyou: Thanks, Akane. Sorry to bother you like this. Akane: Oh, it's no bother. [The two enter the living room area, and Ranma can be seen in the kitchen area sorting out groceries.] Ranma: Heya, Ucchan! Ukyou: Just got back from shopping? Ranma: Yeah, last minute stuff. We really didn't have time until tonight to get to it. [Ranma quickly unpacks the grocery bags, putting canned goods in the shelves, perishable goods in the refrigerator, and things he has no comprehension of are left out in the counter. As he sorts out the items, he suddenly finds himself holding up a large cucumber. Ranma stares. Akane stares. Ranma and Akane blush. Ukyou blinks, notices Ranma and Akane and the cucumber, then blinks again. Ukyou: [thinks] Either Akane had a kitchen accident with a cucumber, or there's something kinky going on that I don't wanna know about. [All three slowly look away, while Ranma coughs and puts the cucumber away. A few quiet seconds later, order is restored and life resumes at its normal pace.] Akane: So, I heard what happened at Kasumi's place. How's everyone there? Ukyou: Everyone's fine, just a little rattled. A big chunk of the roof is gone, though. Akane: Oh? Why? Ukyou: [sheepishly] When I hit the thing, it really, _really_ blew up. Yuriko said I managed to hit an important wire, or something like that. Akane: Well, I'm just glad everyone's okay. Ukyou: Well, yeah... um... got any place I can lay my stuff out on? Akane: Go ahead and use the living room table, and just ignore us, okay? Ukyou: Thanks, Akane, I _really_ appreciate it. [Ukyou lays out her books and notes on the kitchen table, and begins to study. Meanwhile, Akane and Ranma move about the apartment, cleaning up, doing chores, and misc. household duties.] Ranma: [from kitchen area] Aw man. Akane! Akane: [from closet] What? Ranma: [from kitchen] Ya forgot to buy the squid chips! I asked ya a hundred times- Akane: [from closet, slightly irritated] We'll just get it tomorrow, okay? Sorry about that! [Ukyou sighs.] Ukyou: [muttering to herself] So, this is married life, is it? [she resumes studying]. [Meanwhile, Ranma goes to the closet, while Akane goes to the bathroom.] Akane: [from bathroom] Ranma! Ranma: [from closet] What? Akane: [from bathroom] You forgot! Again! Ranma: [from closet] Forgot what? Akane: [from bathroom] To put the seat up! Ranma: [from closet] Okay, okay, sorry! Ukyou: [thinks] They can't possibly be like this every day, can they? No! Stop it! Exam tomorrow! Exam tomorrow! [She resumes reading.] Ranma: [from closet] Hey Akane, where's my Chinese shirt? Akane: [walking out of bathroom, going into the main room] Which Chinese shirt? You've got a hundred of them. Ranma: [from closet] Oh. The green one. Akane: Thought I saw it in the bathroom. Ranma: [from closet] Oh, okay. Ukyou: [thinks] Headphones woulda been handy right about now, I think. [Akane walks into the kitchen, where Ranma is beginning to cook food.] Akane: [slighlty irritated] What're you doing? Ranma: Cooking our lunches tomorrow. Akane: Isn't it my turn? Ranma: Huh? Akane: You cooked yesterday, didn't you? Ranma: We ate out yesterday. Nobody cooked. Day before that, you cooked. Since I didn't go yesterday, it's my turn. Akane: That's not the way it's supposed to work. Ranma: Yes it is. We're takin' turns, ain't we? Akane: No, we cook on certain _days_. Ranma: [blinks] Um... shouldn't we... y'know. Akane: [blinks, thinks] Oh, that's right. [Ranma and Akane hold their fists out.] Ranma/Akane: jan-ken-pon! [They snap their fists out. Akane goes with a rock, Ranma goes with scissors.] Ukyou: [thinks] Jan-ken-pow? Ranma: [sighs] Okay, but can I make a request? Akane: [frowns] What? Ranma: Do the curry. I like your curry. Akane: [smiles] Oh... okay! Ukyou: [thinks] Translation: 'everything else you cook is remarkably bland, so please cook the curry.' Tsk, Ukyou, you're getting bitter. [runs her hands through her hair] Argh! Focus! Focus! Focus! Exam _tomorrow_, Ukyou! [Ukyou tries to study for ten more minutes, as Ranma and Akane find an amazing multitude of things to disagree about, either mildly or to the point of resorting to jan-ken-pow. Finally, Ukyou slowly closes her book.] Ukyou: [looks at her watch] Goodness, look at the time. [smiles nervously] I just remembered I was supposed to meet Maki-chan somewhere! Ranma: Going already, Ucchan? Ukyou: Ayep, Maki-chan's gonna be ticked off if I don't show up. [pushes all her books and papers into her backpack with one graceful sweep] Gotta go! Thanks a lot, guys. Akane: Any time, Ukyou! * * * [Scene: the library. Tall shelves surround a circular table where Ukyou is seated. She unpacks her books, begins to read, and then a chime is heard through the entire building.] Ukyou: [thinks] The library! Why the heck didn't I think about this before? Sometimes I'm such a damn idiot. Announcer: The library will be closing in thirty minutes. [Ukyou slams her head into her book, then stares up at the speakers of the PA system on the ceiling.] Ukyou: WHAAAAAAAAAT?! Announcer: Repeat, the library will close in thirty minutes. Ukyou: It's not faaaaaaaaaaaaair! [Thirty minutes later, Ukyou packs up her things and leaves the library, walking out into the darkness of the night.] Ukyou: [voiceover] I had to wonder if Ranma ever had one of these days. So, after losing the library and home sweet home, where was I to go? * * * [Scene: Ukyou walking along the streets at night, passing by university buildings and residential areas, looking grim. She trudges, exhausted, through one street, then stops when she realizes she's in front of the Chez Funsui. She stares through the window as she sees Hitomi serving several tables at once, with apparently no other help and looking a little overwhelmed.] Ukyou: [blinks, yawns] Oh, what the hell. One for the road. Ukyou: [voiceover] Actually, I wasn't that thirsty. I don't know what it was, I just wanted to go in there. [Ukyou enters Chez Funsui] Ukyou: Heya, Hitomi-san. Kinda crowded for this time of night, isn't it? Hitomi: [as she carries several empty glasses to the bar] Yeah, I think it's the spillover from some party on campus that just wrapped up. Ukyou: Aren't you guys closed by now normally? Hitomi: The management changed the hours this month. They figured that since this is a college area, there's a good market for late-night hours. [looks at crowded room] Looks like they were right. Ukyou: No kidding. You look like you could use some help. Hitomi: [sighs] A lot of the other guys called in 'sick', though I bet they're just skipping out because it's exam week. Ukyou: [frowns] So who's here besides you? Hitomi: Just Takeo, the bartender. Ukyou: Only the two of you? Hitomi: [nods] Yeah. [looks at crowded tables of people looking at her expectedly] Oooh boy, looks like I've gotta go. See you later, Ukyou-san. Ukyou: Hitomi, wait... Hitomi: Hm? Ukyou: [looks hesitant] I... ah... Hitomi: Ukyou-san, is something wrong? [A look of indecision and longing crosses Ukyou's face. She looks away for a moment, then looks Hitomi in the eye.] Ukyou: Hitomi-san, d'ya want me to lend a hand here? I used to run a restaurant back in Nerima, y'know. Hitomi: I dunno... [A large crowd of students enters Chez Funsui, taking a seat, and then another group follows them.] Hitomi: [stares at the crowds] Oh boy. Then again... Lemme see if Takeo doesn't mind. [Ukyou watches as Hitomi quickl dashes over to Takeo. They have a quick and hurried conversation. A moment later, Hitomi hurries back over to Ukyou with an apron in hand.] Hitomi: Um... if you don't mind helping out at the register and being hostess... Ukyou: [smiles] No, don't mind at all. Hitomi: [looks at Ukyou oddly] You sure? Ukyou: [nods] Yeah, I'm sure. Hitomi: Well... okay. Go ahead and start at the register. I'll let you know what else needs to be done. Ukyou: [nods] Register, no problem. Hiomi: And Ukyou-san? Thanks, I really appreciate it. Ukyou: [smiles again] No problem. [Ukyou goes to the cash register while Hitomi attends to the tables and gets orders. As the hour passes, Ukyou helps out with taking orders, clearing tables, and even mixing drinks. As she does so, her mood slowly improves, and she is often seen with a tired, but content smile. At last, closing time hits and they usher out the customers.] Hitomi: [looking at Ukyou strangely] Was I seeing things or were you actually having fun? Ukyou: [smiling happily] Nope, you weren't seeing things. Hitomi: Er, why? Ukyou: Oh, I just finally found myself again, that's all. [removes apron, hands it to Hitomi] See you later, Hitomi, and thanks. [Ukyou leaves the door, her step light, her demeanor relaxed. Hitomi watches her leave, puzzled.] Hitomi: [shakes her head] That woman is strange. * * * [Scene: the streets at night. Ukyou is walking casually as the night breeze lifts her hair. She walks along the border of the campus to the forest's edge, and fireflies lazily rise and fall through the trees.] Ukyou: [happily] Absolutely no more concerns, not a one. Tomorrow is no longer an issue. La-la-la. Tee-hee! Oh, but there'll be paperwork to fill... [thinks about it] It'll be worth it. Dad'll be happy, at least. Wonder what Maki-chan'll think of it. [She pauses, turning towards the forests and watching the fireflies.] Ukyou: Yessir, sometimes ya gotta stop and look to see what's important. [She tilts her head to the left, then the right, and then giggles.] Ukyou: I must be exhausted. I'm talking to myself and finding it verrrrry funny. [looks at watch] It's... two in the morning. Yeah, definitely could use some rest. [Ukyou stretches, yawns, takes a deep breath, then strides onward towards her neighborhood. Minutes later, she arrives at her neighborhood. The power is still out, though this time _exactly_ starting at her building and continuing for another six blocks downward.] Ukyou: [raises her arms] HA! Still dark! I don't care! Hahahahahaha! [yawns] Aaaaaah, neeeeed sleeeep. [giggles] Hope I regain the ability t'have inner monologue by tomorrow, or people are gonna think I'm nuts. [She fumbles with her keys in the shadow of her doorway, then uses one hand to pull a flashlight out from her backpack and shine it on the keys. She tries to unlock the door again. A moment later, the door opens and an elderly woman peers at Ukyou.] Woman: Kuonji-san? Ukyou: [cringes] Whoops! Aheheh, sorry, Mrs. Takahashi. Wrong apartment... y'know... dark... and... y'know. Mrs. Takahashi: [yawns] Right, right. Good night, Kuonji-san. [closes door] Ukyou: [sighs and walks to the next door down] Damn, I hate when that happens. [She opens flashlight, fumbles with keys, and this time opens the door] I'm hooooome! Maki-chan? Maki-chaaaaaaaan? Huh. Guess she's still on a date with the 200 proof man. [She looks thoughtful for a moment] I wonder if he bleeds alcohol. Heh, probably. [She dumps her backpack on the floor next to the sofa, then begins crossing the room. At one point, her flashlight moves across something shiny in the dark. Ukyou pauses, then shines the light over it again.] Ukyou: [hysterically] Aheh... ahehehe... BWAHAHAHAAAAA!!! STUPID me! I've been WALKING all day and I FORGOT I had a bicycle! WaHAH! [Ukyou shambles into the bedroom and piles into her bed face-first.] Ukyou: Hoooooooome sweeeeeeet hooooooome. G'nite, everybody! [A loud series of knocks is heard on the door. Ukyou sighs and puts a pillow over her head.] Ukyou: Aaaagh. [A loud series of knocks is heard on the door. Again.] Ukyou: This had better be- Makiko: [from outside] Ucchaaaaaaan! Open uuup! Ukyou: -Maki-chan. Right. [Ukyou gets up, slowly, turns on the flashlight and heads towards the door. She opens it, revealing a drunk and upset looking Makiko.] Ukyou: Maki-chan? [Red-eyed and swaying slightly, Makiko slowly looks up towards Ukyou. Ukyou's eyes widen as she sees Makiko's eyes are red.] Ukyou: Maki-chan... what happened? [Makiko blinks once, sniffles, then rushes to Ukyou and wraps her arms around her.] Makiko: Waaah! Ucchan! Ukyou: [embracing Makiko gently] Hey, it's alright, I'm here. C'mon inside, we'll talk about it. [Ukyou leads Makiko inside, closing the front door as she leaves. She leads Makiko unsteadily to the bedroom, then sits her on her bed. Ukyou sits next to her, holding her hand.] Ukyou: Maki-chan? Makiko: [pouts] Men are jerks, Ucchan. [She suddenly stands up] Lardi-ball no baka! Ukyou: [blinks] Lardi-ball? That's a new one. Makiko: [scowls] Stupid jerk. Kept on loookin'at othr girls aaaaall night long. Ukyou: [relieved but still concerned] Oh, is that what happened? [thinks a brief moment] You know... it's not like you two are a pair... [looks at Makiko doubtfully] Are you two, y'know, together? Makiko: [falls over, lying on bed] WE AIN'T TOGETHER! Ukyou: [Patiently] Then he's bound to look around, y'know? Guys do that all the time, right? Makiko: [grumbling] Lardi-ball no baka baka baka baka. [Ukyou shakes her head, scoots so that she leans against the wall, moving some pillows behind her back. Next to her, Makiko stares at the ceiling, looking sullen.] Ukyou: You're _really_ drunk this time, aren'cha... Makiko: *sniffle* S-sorry, Ucchan. Ukyou: Hey, it's alright. You gotta let yourself go every now and then. Makiko: Hey... Ucchan? Ukyou: Yeah? Makiko: Y'know... sometimes... sometimes I feel kinna lonely, y'know? Ukyou: [taking Makiko's hand again] Everyone feels that way sometimes, sugar. [The two lay there in silence for a while, Ukyou glancing at Makiko every now and then.] Makiko: Hey, Ucchan... Ukyou: Hm? Makiko: Y' havalotta friends growing up, Ucchan? Ukyou: [smiles sadly] Me? Nah, I was too busy bein' a boy. Makiko: Oh... s'right. [silent for a moment] Glad I came t'Mizunoikan. Ukyou: Oh? Whyssat? Makiko: 'cos I met You'n Ranchan'n Akane'n Lardi-no-baka'n.... hey, Ucchan? Ukyou: Hm? Makiko: [turns over and hugs Ukyou] Y'r my besht friend, Ucchan... m'besht friend. Ukyou: [blinks thoughtfully] Y'know... now that I think about it, you're my best friend too. Makiko: [closes her eyes] M'besht friend... luv ya, Ucchan. Ukyou: Zzzzz... [Makiko blinks. She reaches up slightly, and gives Ukyou a kiss on the cheek, then falls asleep.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Y'know, it's kinda funny how we get along so well, me'n Maki-chan. Opposites attract, I guess. No, Megami, I am not _in_love_ with Maki-chan. Anyway, had my day ended like that, it woulda been fine... but little did I know that the entire day was a joke, and the next day was the really cruel punchline. * * * [SCENE: 6:30AM, Ukyou & Makiko's bedroom. The alarm clock on Makiko's nightstand goes off, beeping loudly. Ukyou groans and tries to reach for the alarm clock, but Makiko sleeping soundly on top of her prevents that.] Ukyou: [eyes open slightly, groans] Aw jeez. [Ukyou gently tries to slide from under Makiko, but the other girl's eyes flutter. With a lunge, Ukyou manages to shut off Makiko's alarm clock. Makiko groans, then looks at Ukyou with tired, half-closed eyes.] Ukyo: G'mornin, Maki-chan. Makiko: Uhh... Ucchan? Ukyou: Yeah? [Makiko peers at Ukyou, blinks, then sinks her head back down.] Makiko: Um... wha... whachadoin in my bed? Ukyou: Y'don't remember? Makiko: Tell me we didn't do anything. Ukyou: Y'came home drunk and we fell asleep while you were crying on my shoulder. Makiko: Oh... right. Ucchan? Ukyou: What? Makiko: Don'feel so good... think I got my first hangov... ov... Ukyou: Always a first time for ever- Makiko: Urk... Ukyou: [eyes widen] Hey... Maki-chan... you okay? Makiko: G'nna be sick... *hrrrk* Ukyou: [eyes widen] Maki-chan? Makiko: [cheeks puff up, face turns slightly pale] *hrrk* Ukyou: Nonono! Bathroom! Bathroom! Maki-chan, DON- Makiko: *BLAAAAAAAAARGH* * * * [Scene: The kitchen. Ukyou, in a robe, is cooking breakfast, while Makiko, also in a robe, sits in the kitchen, her head flat on the table.] Makiko: Waaaaah. Ukyou: I don't believe ya puked on me. Makiko: Sorry, Ucchan. Ukyou: I mean, you _puked_ on me. Makiko: [covers head with arms] I _said_ I was sorry. Ukyou: [smirks] Y'know, I think this is the first time I saw ya with a hangover. Makiko: I think the severe lack of sleep for the last two days in a row might be the cause of it. That, and Lardy's special brew. Ukyou: You had Lardy's special brew? You nuts? Makiko: [petulantly] It was a bet. Ukyou: [blinks, then shrugs] I'll ask later, when you get past yer puke stage. Makiko: Thank you. Say... don't you have exams today? Ukyou: [smiles] Nah, not anymore. Makiko: Not anymore? What do you mean by that? Ukyou: [brings the plate of Okonomiyaki to the table] Well, last night I did a bit of soul-searching- Makiko: Oh, did Sato drag you through something again? Ukyou: No, I- Makiko: Some sort of mystical quest thing? Ukyou: Um, no. Why do you ask? Makiko: That sorta thing seems to happen a lot around here. Ukyou: [thinks a moment] Got a point there, yeah, but not this time. It's not like I need a spiritual guide for every little life decision, y'know. Makiko: Ahso. Ukyou: I just... got to thinking after a while, and I realized that I don't wanna be a literature major. Makiko: [still face-down on the table] Y'don't like it? Ukyou: Nah, s'not that. I like it, but I don't think I wanna make a living with it. Y'know what I mean? Makiko: Um... sorta. Ukyou: So I'm gonna change my major. Gonna go into business administration. Makiko: Business administration? Ukyou: Yep. I miss running a restaurant, and I really think I wanna spend the rest of my life running one. Just like my ancestors before me, I guess, it runs in the blood. Makiko: So you're not gonna take your exams? Ukyou: Nope. Why bother? I'll just be dropping those classes anyway. Makiko: Um... you can't. Ukyou: [eyes widen] What? Makiko: It's way too late in the semester to drop. You're stuck with your classes. Ukyou: I... I am? Makiko: [still not looking up, nods slightly] Yep. Ukyou: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH! Makiko: Oww... not so loud, Ucchan. Ukyou: What time is it?!?! Aaaaaaargh! I'm gonna be late! [Ukyou springs up and runs into the bedroom. Makiko, meanwhile, finally raises her head. She stares at the okonomiyaki in front of her, then turns green.] Makiko: Urk.... *blaaaaaaargh* [Ukyou rushes back into the room, wearing a fresh change of clothes and carrying her backpack.] Ukyou: Maki-chan, I gotta... aw man, you puked on my okonomiyaki. Makiko: S... sorry, Ucchan. Ukyou: Ah... anyway, gotta run, exams. You gonna be okay? Makiko: [Waves a hand] Go on, I'll be fine. Ukyou: I'll come back right after I'm done, okay? [Makiko nods.] Ukyou: Seeya! [Ukyou zips out of the apartment, hops onto her bicycle, and zooms down the streets.] * * * [Scene: a small, crowded classroom In the middle of it all, Ukyou stares down at her test with a somewhat blank, slightly horrified expression.] Ukyou: Oh... my. * * * [Scene: a medium sized classroom, filled to capacity. In the middle of it all, Ukyou stares down at her test with a somewhat blank, slightly horrified expression.] Ukyou: It's... B... no... C... ah.... Professor: Ahem. No talking during the exam. Ukyou: Eep. * * * [Scene: a small, crowded classroom. In the middle of it all, Ukyou stares down at her test with a somewhat blank, slightly horrified expression.] Ukyou: [taps buttons on calculator with frustration] Er... Ah.... * * * [scene: an empty, quiet street surrounded by fences and houses. The sky overhead is dark, threatening to rain. Ukyou, on her bicycle, pedals slowly down the street, her head hung low.] Ukyou: I. Feel. Stupid. [Suddenly, a streaking comet of pink and purple blazes towards Ukyou.] Shampoo: [on bicycle] ..oveoutofshaMPOOSWAYSTUPIDSPatulagirl... [The amazon blazes by Ukyou, nearly knocking her off of her bike.] Ukyou: Watch where yer goin', ya stupid brainless bimbo! [grumbles] One of these days, just one of these days, POW, right in that stupid bimbo's empty head. [She continues peddling down the street. High above, the clouds darken even further, and thunder rumbles ominously.] Ukyou: No, please, not this too.... [Lightning flashes across the sky. Immediately after, rain begins falling in heavy sheets.] Ukyou: Aw man! [shakes a fist at the heavens] I do NOT need this! [As Ukyou begins peddling down a steep hill, she adjusts the gear shift on her bicycle. It snaps in her hand.] Ukyou: Whaaaa? [The chain on her bicycle snaps.] Ukyou: Oh, gimmie a break! [Ukyou tries to break, but the brakes don't function.] Ukyou: This is NOT funny! [The front tire of the bicycle blows out.] Ukyou: Waah! [She struggles with the bike, narrowly dodging several pedestrians.] Ukyou: Outta the way! Broken bike! [She narrowly dodges an oncoming truck.] Ukyou: Aaaaagh! [Finally, the bicycle plows into a pile of garbage bags. Ukyou is sent flying through the air, lands roughly on the ground, tumbles head-over-heels, and lands face-first in a water-logged gutter. A passing car splashes a wave of water over her.] [Fade to black] Ukyou: [voiceover] I dunno if you can hear me, Megami, but I'd like to think that you're watching over me. I'd hate to think that I'm talking to myself, and at times like this, I really need a sympathetic ear. Anyway, now you know why I'm lying face-first in a gutter, feeling pretty darn crappy. * * * [Scene: Ukyou slowly walks down the road, dirty, ragged, but with a strange smiile on her face.] Ukyou: [voiceover] Heck with it. Tomorrow's a brand new day, right? I've just gotta study a little harder for the next test, and I'll be okay. Besides, everyone at home'll be happy about me changing majors. And I'll be happy too. [She walks past houses, businesses, stretches of forest, and at last returns to her apartment complex.] Ukyou: [voiceover] I wonder if I should open an Ucchan's around here. Be good to stomp Shampoo into the ground on the business front as well as the fist front. What do you think, Megami? [She winds her way through the buildings, until she reaches her apartment. She stops at the front door, admiring the view.] Ukyou: [voiceover] It feels good, this feeling of self-achievement. All this time, I've been listening to other people's... well, people and other beings... tell me what I should do in my life. No otherworldly entities, no 'Mr. Know-it-all Sato' butting in on my life. For the first time in a long time, this is my plan, my vision, and I'm gonna do it my way. Feet on the ground, head in the clouds, I hadn't felt this way in a long time. I finally feel a little more like myself. Funny, since I should be feeling like total crap right now. I'm probably giddy from a lack of sleep. I'll feel like crap tomorrow. [Ukyou opens the door, looking around.] Ukyou: Tadaima! Makiko: [from bedroom] Okaerinasai! Not so loud! [Ukyou smirks and goes into the bedroom. Inside, Makiko is in bed with a pillow over her head.] Ukyou: Hey, still got that hangover? Makiko: Kinda. [she lifts the pillow, looking at Ukyou, then gasps.] Ucchan! What happened to you? Ukyou: [shrugs] Bike broke down. Crashed. [Ukyou peels off her wet clothing, grabbing a plain t-shirt and some shorts, then falls into bed.] Ukyou: I just wanna get some _rest_ for the remainder of the day. Makiko: Hey, Ucchan. Ukyou: Hm? Makiko: I was just wondering... how many people call you 'Ucchan'? Ukyou: Hm... let's see... there's Ranchan, Dad, and you. Makiko: That's it? Ukyou: Guess so. Why? Makiko: [smiles faintly] Nothing. Just wondering. [The doorbell rings.] Ukyou & Makiko: Aaaagh. [The doorbell rings again.] Ukyou: I'll get it, I'll get it. [Ukyou rises, goes to the front door, then looks through the peephole. She groans.] Ukyou: Go away, Sato! Sato: [through the door] Kuonji-san, there is something you should- Ukyou: I am NOT feeling good today, Sato! Sato: But- Ukyou: Go bug Ranma and Akane, they don't mind doing your spiritual quest stuff! I am _very_ under the weather today! Unknown voice: Ukyou-sama? Ukyou: [blinks] No... that can't be... [She opens the door. What appears to be a beautiful young girl suddenly glomps onto Ukyou tightly, her eyes full of tears.] Girl: [cries] Ukyou-sama! I've found you at last! Ukyou: K... Konatsu? Sato: [standing at the doorway, raises an eyebrow] This young lady was lost, and said she was looking for you. She is... ah... [looks awkward for a moment] your sister? Makiko: [emerges from the room] Ucchan, who's at the... [stares at Ukyou being embraced fiercely by, apparently, another woman] Um... er... Konatsu: [cries] Ukyou-samaaaa! I was so lonely without you! Makiko: [looks at Ukyou] 'Ukyou-sama'? Ucchan... is she... er... and you... Konatsu: [eyes widen, stares at Ukyou panic-stricken] Ukyou-sama... [looks at Makiko] Have you already *sniffle* already found someone else? Ukyou: [sheepishly] Er... guys... this is NOT what it looks like. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ finis?? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ I've seen wonders As I move through time More power and magic Than I thought would be mine Looking back at yesterdays Things we used to know A wasted chance and lonely days Time moves on, people come and go Is it my destiny How am I to know? Waiting for a miracle while Searching my soul A second chance A dream come true I'll learn to love again When I stand by you So I'm on my way The journey's just begun I'm gonna keep all the memories But never forget the one ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Written by Rod M, David Tai, Paul Gallegos, John Walter Biles, Jeff Hosmer, and Rod M. Artwork by Alexandra Teixeira. Special Thanks to Tucson Animation Screening Society (TASS) and of course Rumiko Takahashi Copyright (c) 2000 Digital Knight Communications. "Ranma 1/2" and its characters are Copyright (c) 2000 Viz Communications, Inc., Shogakukan, Kitty Animation, and Rumiko Takahashi. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------