[Ranma][FanFic] Anijza Part1/03: "The Suspicion"
Nicholas Stone
Anijza
Part One:
'As on Earth as in Hell'
Nicholas Stone
The Suspicion
Back at the Tendo Dojo, the family called it a night retiring to their
rooms. Akane lay on her bed casually reading a magazine while Anijza stood
at the dresser mirror putting her hair up into a bun. She had yet to put on
a nightgown clad in nothing but her underwear. Akane cut her a quick
glance.
"Aren't you cold, Anijza?" she asked, not wishing to sound like she was
bothered.
Anijza stopped gazing back through her reflection. "No. It's really kind
of warm right now."
Warm, thought Akane? A breeze ruffled the limbs of the trees outside the
window making her wonder about the climates in Korea. This girl must really
come from a harsh environment; Akane figured it had something to do with the
excitement Anijza projected.
Reflecting back upon Ucchan's and their conversation about fiances, Akane
sat up closing the magazine. "Anijza," she called.
Anijza was just pulling a nightgown down over her head, turning as she shook
it into place. "Yes, Akane?"
"You said something about having a fiance back in Korea. Do you have a
picture of him?"
Anijza acted like she was not ready for such a question. Akane moved to the
edge of her bed leaning towards her waiting for some sort of reply.
Finally, the girl blinked.
"Ah... no I do not think I do," Anijza answered.
"You have a man waiting for you back home and you don't carry a picture of
him with you?"
"Err... I suppose you have one of Ranma?"
Bitch, thought Akane knowing Anijza made a good point. "You got me there,"
she said. Silence passed between them before Akane continued with her
cross-examination. "He has a name?"
"Uhm... Chiung-Hee."
"Chiung-Hee?"
Anijza nodded. "He is supposed to be my husband once I return to my
homeland."
"Hmm," sounded Akane, leaning back. "Lucky fellow this Chiung-Hee."
"Thank you for the compliment."
It wasn't meant to be, but Akane let the topic go. At least for the moment
Ranma appeared out of Anijza's interest. So why was she feeling so upset,
and what was the reason behind all of her attention to him? Maybe fear?
After all, Anijza was far away from home and Ranma being the first friendly
face to greet her became someone she could trust as a protector.
...
...
...
Please.
Meanwhile Anijza sensed Akane's suspicions, knowing that her interference
would hinder progress. Somehow she had to get her out of the way if but for
a short time to complete the plans she had made. Anijza crawled into her
bed and after adjusting the pillow, turned onto one side gazing at Akane.
"Are you jealous of me, Akane?"
Shocked by the question, Akane's jaw sagged open. "E-E-excuse me?"
Anijza pressed a timid hand to her lips. "I'm sorry," she apologized, "I
just sense you are upset with me for being so close to Ranma."
Tension tugged at Akane's temples; words of anger dancing upon her lips.
No, it would not be right, she thought. After all, she is a guest and this
could just be the norm for her.
"I will admit you suddenly taken with him has kind of irked me," said Akane,
lying onto one side. "Ranma is in theory supposed to be engaged to me so I
guess I should feel some concerns about that."
"He will make such a good husband," declared Anijza.
Her comment drew a wry look from Akane; not sure if she meant for it to be
her or not.
"Why don't we get some sleep," suggested Akane. "Big day in school
tomorrow."
Anijza agreed and Akane reached over to the lamp. "Good night," she said as
she turned out the light.
"Goodnight, Akane Tendo. Sleep well."
Akane turned over onto her back and drew in a deep sigh. She thought about
the day and this girl who had so far come close to disrupting her
relationship with Ranma. That knowing sense of foreboding dread, that
something bad was going to happen filled her, and she looked over only to
find Anijza asleep.
Akane stared at her then chuckled low to herself. My imagination, she
thought turning over...
* * * * *
Monday;
{Anijza-.}
Anijza's eyes snapped open hearing the light familiar call of her voice in
the air. It was the Master, and she need to respond to his beckoning.
Sitting up, she glanced over at the clock noting the time. It was two in
the morning the Dojo deathly silent. Akane's lay still in her bed; Anijza
quietly folding back the covers. She stepped into her house slippers and
carefully tiptoed to the door.
It let out a low creak and Anijza grimaced, pausing to look back over at
Akane. She remained in her position much to Anijza's relief. Anijza
carefully slipped through the opening.
{Anijza,} called the voice again. She followed it down the hallway to the
bathroom and went inside.
"I am here, Master," whispered Anijza facing the mirror on the wall.
The mirror ripped like a pool of liquid mercury then the edges took on a dim
blue glow.
{We have need to talk, Anijza,} came the voice from the mirror.
The tone of the words sent a shudder though Anijza. "Have I, have I done
something wrong, M-master?"
{Yes.}
Without warning Anijza's legs suddenly felt weak and feebleness overtook her
body. She let out a light moan, dropping to her knees unable to stand.
{You disappoint me, little one,} continued the voice, {I expected better.}
Anijza gasped desperately reaching out to the mirror. Her eyes filled with
horror seeing the wrinkled skin sagging from her gaunt limbs. "No," she
creaked in a raspy voice. "Master... what have I done?"
{You almost took innocent lives today, Anijza. Lives not meant for our
consumption.}
"I-I-I am sorry, M-m-master," she replied, remembering her attempt on
Akane's life.
{Why, little one? You know that we are not allowed to take those not of our
kiln.}
"She is... is interfering with my plans, master."
{And the other?}
Anijza had no answer for Mousse. She bowed her head to the floor,
shuddering uncontrollably.
{Sloppy, Anijza. I trust you will remember this reminder of our laws?}
"Yes, yes milord."
As sudden as it came, Anijza returned to normal, but she remained on the
floor waiting for more of her master's words.
{So this new consort you have selected is not without ties?}
She looked up. "There are a few others who would have him as their own, but
I will prevail over them, my master."
{Hmm. Maybe you should look elsewhere, Anijza. I sense trouble on this
plain. Its very essence reeks of ill tidings.}
"No!" Anijza quickly sat up. "Ranma Saotome has long been my desire,
milord, and I will have him! No silly tomboy will prevent me from
succeeding."
{Ah, so this other female has drawn out the jealousy in you, eh?
Interesting.}
A teasing chuckle taunted Anijza, drifting away into foreboding silence.
{Your time is short, little one. You must secure your consort and bring him
back in time for the ceremony.}
"I will, milord. It should not take long to complete."
{Really? Tell me, what do you have in store for this Ranma Saotome...}
* * * * *
But Anijza was very wrong about not awakening Akane.
She heard the slight creak of the door, waiting until their new guest had
stepped out then slowly rolled over. Anijza's steps faded down the hallway
and for a moment Akane thought she was just going to use the bathroom.
There came an odd sound though, a slight rush of wind that seemed to be
calling Anijza's name. It did not sound like there was a storm outside, and
for some strange reason Akane could not shake this feeling that there was
more going on.
A woman's curiosity perhaps?
Maybe, but Akane felt she should go and see what Anijza was doing up so
early in the morning.
Slipping into her robe, Akane carefully peeked out the door, and then
started down the hall towards the bathroom. She could see the door, and
there was an odd bluish-white glow coming from bottom.
I don't remember us having a nightlight in there?
Several steps away, Akane suddenly stopped hearing what she thought were
voices coming from the bathroom. They were hushed voices, one definitely
Anijza's, but the other sounded rather odd almost menacing in its tone. She
crept closer, the voices becoming clearer to her ears.
{... and there are to be no more attempts of killing anyone,} she thought
she heard the strange voice say.
"I understand, my master."
Master? Who was Anijza talking too?
{Bring your consort by the neigh hour, little-one. I am ravenous and desire
the taste of a fresh soul.}
Akane's blood ran cold from the words she just heard. A fresh soul? Whose
soul, and what was this girl after? She took another step closer, her foot
coming down on one of the loose floorboards.
Creak!
In the bathroom, Anijza looked back towards the door upon hearing the sound.
She arched a brow pausing to see if it would repeat again. It was deathly
silent, but her suspicions were aroused.
"My master, I must go," she said.
{Agreed. I will check up on you in the near future, Anijza.}
The glow faded leaving Anijza in the dark of the night. Quietly, she went
back to Akane's room and went in, stopping for a brief moment at the doorway
to gaze about the room. Nothing appeared different; Akane still huddled in
her bed asleep. It might have been this Dojo settling, thought Anijza,
climbing back into her bed. She pulled the covers up, pausing to give Akane
one last look before lying down.
Over in her bed, Akane's fear stricken mind held her tense as the terrifying
words echoed in her head.
A fresh soul... Ranma?
* * * * *
The remaining hours of sleep did not pass well for Akane. All she could
dream about was Ranma and Anijza together, going away leaving her alone in a
murky darkness. She tried to drive the images away, but yet they would
return much stronger. The dim buzz from her alarm clock roused her from
sleep and she opened her eyes.
Taking a deep breath, Akane sat up yawning while she stretched her arms
wide. A glance over at the clock told her it was seven in the morning, and
then she froze realizing another fact.
Anijza was not in her bed.
The sheet was still in mid-air as Akane darted out of her room. She ran
down to the bathroom and found the door locked. "Ranma!" she called,
knocking desperately on it. It opened, but Nabiki stood there her mouth
full of toothpaste.
"Afkannee! Waift yoruf turn!" she said, shutting the door in her face.
Frantically, Akane dashed back down the hall to the stairs. She came around
the corner and stopped. "Ranma!" she called again.
"Yo."
Spinning around, Akane spotted Ranma leaning from around the partition of
the dining room. "Ranma!" she cried, sprinting over to him.
Ranma was shocked and bewildered all in one moment as Akane placed him in a
firm bear hug. He did not mind, in fact this was a pleasant change from
their normal morning ritual of hurried bickering. Gently pulling her away,
he smiled.
"Uh, good morning to you too, Akane."
"Oh Ranma, I thought you had left me! I thought you had been taken away by
that-."
A flick of red hair made Akane pause. Ranma pushed the partition further
back allowing her to see Anijza seated next to him holding a bowl of rice
and fried eggs in her hands. She was dressed in a schoolgirl's blue sailor
outfit with white piping, a kerchief of red tied about her collar. Anijza
stared at her, one brow slowly arching up.
"By who, Akane?" she asked in a tone much more mature than what they had
heard before.
Akane took a light swallow trying to gather her words.
"Anijza," she gasped low.
Anijza tipped her head slightly to one side waiting for Akane to finish her
sentence.
"Oh you thought Anijza and I had already left for school," Ranma suddenly
said.
A break, Akane nodding in agreement.
Ranma chuckled. "Come on, Akane. You know I wouldn't do that." He looked
her over and frowned. "Might have to though if you're not even ready to go.
Wouldn't want Anijza here to start school with a bad image."
The eyes of the two girls were locked on each other, both trying to figure
out what the other was thinking. Anijza suddenly smiled, shifting back into
her innocent roll.
"Oh no, Ranma-chan! I would not want the teachers angry with me on my first
day!"
"Ya'see, Akane. You've gotten Anijza all upset now."
Akane pressed her lips together into a thin line, struggling to fight back
her anger. From the kitchen, Kasumi walked in carrying the rest of the
morning meal. She took one look at Akane and frowned.
"Akane, if you are going to eat and get to school on time then you had
better go upstairs and get cleaned up," she said.
Akane stood up, hesitated, and then knelt back down again. "Ranma, don't
leave without me," she said.
"That might not be-."
"Please, Ranma. Don't leave without me."
Ranma found Akane's manner odd, but slowly nodded his head. "Ten minutes?"
he asked.
"I'll be back," replied Akane.
She stood up and shot Anijza a sharp look before hurrying back to the
stairs.
"Gee, what's eating her?" asked Ranma.
"I don't know," Kasumi said, wondering the same thing.
Anijza hid her growing annoyance from the two, steadily consuming her
breakfast. "Bad dreams?" she suggested, thinking how to eliminate her
interference in the coming days.
Ranma shrugged. "That, or just a hint of jealousy?"
"Ranma, behave," said Kasumi, laughing at the notion.
Anijza chuckled lightly, playing along with his joke. "Who knows," she
said, grinning deviously. "Who knows..."
* * * * *
Nekohatten, Nerima Chinatown;
Mousse busied himself with the morning chores careful to stay out of harms
way as he placed several chairs on the floor. Around him, the furious
shriek of anger filled the air as Shampoo ranted uncontrollably about the
restaurant; Cologne perched on the counter calmly watching her.
Another napkin holder sailed through the air, Mousse catching it without
pause.
"Ah, I needed that," he said placing it down a table.
"So who is girl!!!?" screamed Shampoo, wielding two chairs menacingly in her
hands.
"Like I said, Shampoo. She's an exchange student here to finish her
studies."
Another blood curdling cry filled the air. The two chairs sailed across the
restaurant.
"And now she stay with Ranma while Shampoo here working! I kill this,
this-."
"Anijza," finished Mousse while catching the chairs effortlessly.
"Whatever!"
Cologne finally decided to act before her great granddaughter managed to
destroy the room. "Shampoo!" she called bringing her around. "Stop this
tantrum. It will get you nowhere."
Shampoo glared at her great grandmother, chest heaving. The old sage's
steady glare slowly settled her and she finally let out a huff flopping
tiredly into a chair.
"That's better," said Cologne, bounding over to her.
"But great grandma, what we do? Husband fooling around with foreign girl."
"And they seemed to be getting along quite well I may add," commented
Mousse.
"Hush you!" she snapped. "You picked a fine time to inform us of this
problem."
Mousse shrugged. "It got busy yesterday, and you didn't seem to want to
talk after I told you about the near accident I had."
"Carelessness," growled Cologne, cutting him a sharp look. "You are lucky
that company is going to replace your bike."
"To hell with bike!" shouted Shampoo, shooting to her feet. "What about
Ranma?"
Cologne thought a moment. "Hmm. An exchange student, eh? We will have to
go and see this 'Anijza' and determine how much of a problem she really is."
At the far corner Mousse was busy gathering up extra chairs and trays,
stacking them all together. He smirked a the notion of more mayhem this
would no doubt cause them, but the old crone would surely smack him around
for even suggesting they forget about it. Hefting the pile, Mousse started
heading for the back room.
"Well she can't be all that bad," he said as he passed them, "From what
Akane told me, she drove that old goat Happosai out of the Dojo."
Thump!
Mousse came to an abrupt stop. He thought he had hit the counter, but when
he turned to look it was only Cologne's staff. She stood staring up at him,
a look of wonder in her eyes.
"Put those down, Mousse," she told him, and he set the stack aside. "You
say this girl drove Happosai away?"
"That's what Akane said."
"Is this girl that ugly?"
"No. In fact she's not a bad looking girl at all."
That struck Cologne as odd. Happosai running from the sight of a pretty
girl? Without a word she bounded over to the phone and began dialing a
number. Mousse and Shampoo traded looks confused by their mentor's sudden
change and actions.
"Hello, Kasumi," said Cologne. "Uh, I was wondering is Happosai is around?
I need to speak to him... Hm? You don't say? Haven't seen him since
yesterday? Aha, yes... I see... I see. Well if he does show up, could you
tell him I I'm looking for him? Okay, thank you. Good-bye."
She hung up the receiver and returned to her two charges. The wrinkles on
Cologne's forehead folded together as she went into deep thought. She let
out a hum and looked up.
"Happosai has not returned," she told them.
"Is good," replied Shampoo, "now Shampoo can hang up underwear outside with
no worry."
"Hush yourself, child!" snapped Cologne. She thought some more then cut her
eyes over to Mousse.
"Mousse... you're fired," she said.
"What!" he cried, staggering back. "But, but, Cologne! What have I done?
Why are you doing this too me?"
"Because I have another job for you."
"Huh?"
Cologne jumped up onto the end of her staff, balancing before him. "You are
going to stay at the Tendo Dojo for a while."
Mousse shook his head not sure of what he just heard her say.
"I am?"
"Yes you are."
He paused. "Why?"
"Because I want somebody to keep an eye on things in there while I'm gone."
Shampoo spoke up. "Gone? Where great grand-ma going?" she asked surprised
by Cologne's decision.
"Shampoo, you will continue to keep the restaurant open," Cologne said to
her. "Hire some temporary help if you must."
The Amazon woman slumped down into a chair, stunned.
"Uh, Cologne. How am I supposed to get the Tendo's to let me stay at their
Dojo?" asked Mousse.
"You seem to be resourceful. I'm sure you will figure out a way."
Shampoo tapped her great grandmother lightly on the shoulder. "Where you
go, Great grand-ma?" she asked again.
"I'm going to go find Happosai," she replied.
"Why?" asked Mousse.
"Because something is wrong over at the Tendo home, and it has something to
do with this 'Anijza'."
"If Great grand-ma think she bad thing, why we not go and face her?" said
Shampoo.
"Because it is not wise to confront trouble without first finding out what
it is you are up against."
"And you think Happosai can tell us what it is, eh?" guessed Mousse.
Cologne said nothing, trying to formulate a plan of search for the elusive
demented old man.
"Mousse, get going," she finally said.
"Now?"
"No, yesterday! Now get moving!"
Mousse scurried off to gather his things.
"I'll be back shortly," Cologne said.
Shampoo watched her in stunned silence as Cologne went to the front door.
The elderly sage paused, turning her head back. "And don't do anything
stupid," she warned.
Cologne bounded out leaving Shampoo speechless. She gazed around the
restaurant not knowing what to do first then stood up.
"This mean nothing but trouble," muttered Shampoo.
* * * * *
"...and the cosign of the tangent of the square root will bisect point X
with a value of three to the power of ten."
Ranma sat staring up at the blackboard in utter amazement, lost in the
myriad of equations and figures written all over it. Math; Upper Level
Calculus to be precise, it was more like cryptology as far as he was
concerned.
Oh not everything was beyond him, he wasn't doing that bad in class,
however; he needed to pass or else suffer another year as a sophomore while
the rest of his friends advanced into the next level.
"Now the area of this quadrant must be calculated using William's Law of
Functions..."
I'm doomed.
The teacher's voice started fading into a low buzz as Ranma's worried mind
began playing out scenarios in his head. He chanced a look over at Akane
seated a few rows off to his left and found her busy taking notes. A
stellar student, he thought feeling slightly jealous of Akane's skill with
numbers. How come I can't seem to get the hang of this?
A tap on his shoulder brought him around. Anijza gazed at him and he
flinched. He had forgotten about her, but then again it should not have
come as a surprise since all but one of her classes coincided with his. It
could be luck then again it seemed strange that they had the exact same
class schedule, except for Physical Ed.
"Ranma-chan," whispered Anijza, "Why do you seem so distressed?"
That 'chan' thing was bound to get him in trouble with Akane; Ranma leaned
back.
"Because I can't follow what the teacher's saying," he said.
Anijza paused her eyes blinking for a second then she raised a hand.
"Excuse me Sensei," she called out to the teacher. "Sensei... that is right
isn't it, Ranma-chan?"
"Anijza, what are you doing?" replied Ranma, but he was too late.
The teacher turned around. "Yes, Miss Kwong?"
"Uh, could you slow down? Ranma-chan is having a hard time keeping up with
your primitive description of the Time-Space Continuum and the inaccuracies
and flaws delineated by the out dated theories contained there in."
Time seemed to stop in the classroom, stunned looks, mouths gapping open in
shock appearing on the students around them. The teacher himself appeared
caught off guard for a moment. Ranma grimaced, turning around pausing
briefly at the expression Akane held before lowering his head to his desk.
"What did you say, Miss Kwong?" asked the teacher.
"You are talking about Spectral Plain Tranversment and Alter Dimensional
Travel, right?"
Another long pause followed.
"Did you hear what this girl just said?" said one of the girls across the
classroom.
"Yeah," answered one of the guys. "Sounded like Gosunkugi."
The teacher paused again. Pulling off his glasses, he rubbed the bridge of
his nose and glanced at the blackboard. "Miss Kwong. I thought I was
covering advanced trigonomic functions and portions of Eaton's Laws of
Computations."
Anijza frowned. She squinted at the board looking over the formulas and
writings. "Oh... that too," she finally said. "Anyway, Ranma-chan is still
having a hard time following you."
"Ranma-chan?" whispered one of Akane's friends to her. The scowl that
formed drew deep on her face.
"Mister Saotome, is this true?" asked the teacher.
Ranma peered up from beneath his arms. "Uh, yeah," he answered.
The Teacher let out a hum. "That concerns me in light of your standing
grades. Maybe I should assign you a tutor."
"A tutor!" exclaimed Ranma, sitting up straight.
"He will not need one," said Anijza much to everyone's surprise. "I will
help him."
"What?" Akane blurted out before she could cover her mouth.
A smile came to Anijza's lips, gazing down at Ranma's surprised look.
The Teacher cleared his throat. "That is noble of you, Miss Kwong.
However; you are a guest here and I do not think such a... difficult burden
should be placed upon your shoulders."
"It will be my pleasure, Sensei. In fact, I guarantee Ranma-chan will have
the highest score on this final exam you are planning."
Anijza's statement literally knocked the other students out of their seats.
Ranma's mind reeled fearing the consequences of her words. "I-I-I will?" he
stammered.
"He'll do what?" Akane added, just as shocked as he was.
"And if he does not," continued Anijza, "You may set him back."
Crash!
Ranma sprawled out in the aisle shuddering uncontrollably.
Akane shot up out of her seat. "Anijza!" she shouted, but the girl waved
her off.
"Deal, Sensei?" said Anijza.
Ranma's teacher could not believe his ears. He rubbed his chin thinking a
moment before responding. "That is kind of harsh..., but I will take up the
challenge!"
Ranma moaned.
Unfazed, Anijza knelt down next to him. "How long do I have?" she asked as
she helped him to sit up.
"Three days, Miss Kwong."
With Anijza's help Ranma pushed himself back into his seat, expression lost.
"Uh, sensei!" Akane desperately called out. "You really can't be taking her
word especially when it's not her position to decide such a thing!"
"True," replied the Teacher. He looked over at Ranma. "Mister Saotome?"
Tension mounted, Ranma's classmates waiting for Ranma to respond. He
grimaced, taking a glance around the room.
"Anijza?" he said staring up at her.
She remained calm, almost to calm, observed Akane. What was this witch
trying to do?
Anijza leaned close to Ranma's ear. "Trust me," she whispered, drawing
back.
A flicker in her eyes made Ranma pause. He did not know why, but he found
himself going along with her.
"Okay," he answered. Several gasp and murmurs quickly followed.
"Excellent," said his teacher, grinning deviously. "I do hope you will be
taking better notes, and I'll slow down just for you."
"... thanks," replied Ranma.
Akane could not believe what Ranma had just committed himself to. There
were times to be bold, and then there were times to be humble. Whatever it
was made him go along with Anijza's dare, but he surely was not that stupid.
She sat down as the teacher continued his lecture too bewildered now to
really concentrate on what was being said. Slowly she looked over at Ranma,
but he appeared lost, and then her gaze drifted back to Anijza. The redhead
flinched and turned matching Akane's gaze. Her eyes narrowed slightly, an
arrogant leer lightly creasing her lips. Chills flushed Akane's blood,
chills that made her quickly look away.
Oh Ranma what have you gotten yourself into now, she thought, dreading what
was going to happen...
* * * * *
Physical Ed finally arrived and Akane was more than ready to release all of
the tension built up inside her. Today the girls class was indoors playing
one of her favorite sports; basketball. Quickly changing, Akane rushed out
onto the court ready to take on whatever team her side was to oppose.
The phys-ed teacher blew her whistle forming the class into ranks for their
warm up sessions. "Toe touches! Ready, begin!" she said.
The class began their routine, counting together with each repetition. To
Akane, this felt good and long over due. She tried to force away all of the
things that had happened earlier in the day, especially the incident in her
math class. That reminded her of Anijza, and with the completion of the
warm-up, she paused to regard her involuntary roommate standing in the row
ahead.
A smirk, the blasts from the teachers whistle breaking her gaze.
"Okay! Time to separate into teams. Ukyo, Natsumi, you will captain each
team. The rest line up!"
"Who chooses first?" asked Ukyo.
"We'll toss a coin."
The girl named Natsumi let out a whine. "I want Akane on my team. Last
time we got beat by her."
It was no secret that the best female basketball player in the school was
Akane Tendo. It suited her tomboy attitude excelling at every sport she
entered; Akane beamed with pride at her reputation. The light quickly
dimmed at the next comment.
"What's so special about Akane?" Anijza asked aloud.
Jaws sagged, heads turning with surprise towards her. Anijza stared
innocently back at them.
"Oh yes," said Ukyo, "You don't know anything about 'Supergirl' Akane."
"Hey!" shouted Akane.
Ukyo laughed. "Seriously, Anijza, Akane is the best basketball player
here."
A brow twitched, Anijza's eyes uncharacteristically cutting over at Akane.
She drew slightly back giving her a quick once over.
"I don't think so," she finally said.
After the girls picked themselves up from the floor, they stared at Anijza
trying to comprehend the unbelievable statement they just heard. Here was
some girl from across the sea daring to talk down about someone she never
even played against, yet alone hardly knew at all.
"Anijza," said Ukyo. "Listen, this is your first day here, so let me tell
you something about Akane. She's rough, she's tough, and she doesn't take
any stuff from anyone. I know, trust me."
Anijza looked briefly over at Akane. "I can take her," she said to Ukyo.
That was enough for Akane. She walked up to Anijza sparks latterly rippling
about her head stung by the bold statements from her. Planting her fist on
her hips, Akane glared hard at Anijza.
"And I suppose you play basketball at your high school too?" she asked.
"I have some experience."
The tension mounted, and then Akane took a few steps back. "Ball!" she
shouted, and one of the girls passed a basketball to her. With a steady
dribble, Akane continued to stare at Anijza.
"You, me, one-on-one," she said, "First ten points wins."
"Are you sure?" asked Anijza.
"Oh yes. I am sure."
"Okay," Anijza answered brightly.
Akane tossed her the basketball. "I'll take the far court and I'll even let
you to bring it out first."
Ukyo tugged lightly on their teacher's shirt. "Are you going to allow
this?"
"Sure. Nothing wrong with a little competition."
"Akane will kill her!"
"Such are the lessons in life."
The teacher blew her whistle and the rest of the class cleared the courts.
Akane rubbed her palms together, eyes set in a firm gaze upon Anijza.
Meanwhile Ukyo waited to see what the newcomer would do. As she watched,
Anijza's demeanor changed from quiet and innocent, to one of determination.
The whistle blew again and Akane smiled beckoning Anijza to come at her.
Slowly she did, the basketballs steady beat prevailing above the silence
from the class. Akane dipped slightly into a crouch concentrating on the
ball as she moved up to block Anijza's approach. A shift, Anijza switching
from right to left moving steadily in that direction with Akane matching her
steps.
Suddenly, Anijza made her break, a quick step back before driving again.
Akane was right with her, arms up and out covering any quick clear shots
Anijza might make. Another turn then a pause and Anijza backed up looking
for an opening. Akane thought she had her then expecting an easy pick and
steal, but when she went for the ball she met nothing but air as Anijza
became a blur rolling nimbly around her. It was over in a matter of
seconds, a smooth lay-up sinking the ball though the hoop without a sound.
Gasps sounded, every eye wide by the move and easy score.
"Two," quipped Anijza backpedaling past a shocked Akane.
Akane stood still as a tree frozen in her lunging position. After a moment
she stood upright and walked slowly over to the end of the court. One of
the girls tossed her the basketball, and Akane faced her opponent. Anijza
stood at the center of the court waiting for Akane with a stance of smug
pride, rocking lightly from side to side, hands on her hips beaming
haughtily.
Anger boiled up in Akane's temples and she started dribbling the ball across
the court. Anijza stopped rocking and leaned forwards arms held out in a
ready position as she came. A short stop; Akane suddenly dashed left
forcing Anijza to back up then interpose herself before she could attempt a
shot. That was just what Akane wanted her to do, and with another sharp
turn darted around ready to complete the perfect lay-up.
At least that was what she thought.
A flash of bright red hair was the only indication Akane had that Anijza
struck. By the time Akane's shoes hit the court; Anijza was already at the
other end dunking the ball though the unguarded hoop. Ukyo could not
believe what she just saw, rubbing her eyes; a move mimicked by several of
the girls in the class, amazed by the speed and agility Anijza demonstrated.
The basketball bounced to a stop against the wall and Anijza strode calmly
back to her side of the court and the now astonished Akane. "Four," she
said walking past without pause.
Akane whirled and Ukyo thought the two would fight right then and there, but
Akane drew in a deep breath and headed briskly back over to her side of the
court for the ball. She snatched it from the floor and faced Anijza again,
expression drawn into a vicious scowl of fury.
Unfazed, Anijza said, "You better not keep that look up to long. It might
extend those wrinkles already forming," and then broke out into a laugh.
On came Akane, determined now to show up this arrogant newcomer and teach
her some manners. She faked right then turning her back to Anijza, began
making her way closer to the top of the key. Anijza stayed right with her,
arms up and out preventing any clear shot she might try to take. Suddenly,
Akane broke attempting to come around Anijza's left with a lay-up. Anijza
followed at first then drew away thinking Akane would come back around the
other way for a free shot.
That was not the case, and as Anijza went to block her, Akane spun smoothly
in place executing a perfect hook shot over her head. The basketball passed
through the hoop with a light hiss and the girls let out a cheer, clapping
loudly.
Anijza stared up at the basket, and then at Akane. "Nice," she said.
"No, two points," snapped Akane as she backed away towards her side of the
court.
The contest resumed, Anijza driving down the court. "I hope you're ready,
Akane," said Anijza as she came.
"Bring it on, you bitch!" shouted Akane.
"Akane!" yelled her teacher. She apologized but kept her eyes locked on
Anijza and the basketball dribbling towards her.
Again, Anijza was but a blur, whisking past Akane before she could get a
chance to effectively prevent her from shooting. The score was now six to
two.
Akane stood gripping the basketball furiously between her hands, body
shaking unable to comprehend what was happening. Sweat ran down her face
and arms and she was breathing heavily from all of her exertions. I can't
be getting beat by this, this, girl, thought Akane!
Her reaction drew the attention of the teacher. "Akane," she called out.
Akane looked back over one shoulder. "Maybe you should concede."
"What?" cried Akane. An irritating laugh came from the opposite end of the
court; Anijza down on one knee humored by her reaction.
"No, Sensei!" she said. "I'm going to beat this intruder and make her eat
her words!"
"Akane," Ukyo called out, she too concerned by the developments, but Akane
would hear none of it.
"Get up," she shouted at Anijza as she dribbled towards her.
"Oh, if I must," replied Anijza.
The contest renewed, neither of the two women holding back as they moved
around the court. They appeared at an impasse with Akane paused, her back
to Anijza rethinking her options. Ukyo could see the hard look of
determination in Akane's eyes, teeth grit tight growling low. Anijza
meanwhile held her ground behind Akane waiting for her to make a move. She
appeared not to be worried, steadily staring at Akane's back instead of
concentrating on the ball. Odd, thought Ukyo. It was as if she could sense
where it was, moreover her features and the way she moved made her think
this one hid more than just natural skill from them.
Suddenly Akane broke left, and then came to an abrupt halt gym shoes
screeching loudly as Anijza ran past. The surprise was complete and Akane
darted behind her to complete a clean lay up with ease.
The score: six to four.
"Eat that," said Akane backing away to face Anijza's next assault.
She appeared agitated, Ukyo grinning lightly at the frown Anijza made. The
corners of her lips drew deep, hints of fury; the first time Ukyo saw any
anger from the girl, evident on her face.
"That will cost you, Akane Tendo," Anijza was heard to say before charging
across the court. The basketball bounced in a rapid blur as she came, but
this time Akane did not make the same mistake as before. She waited until
Anijza appeared ready to shoot then lunged grabbing the ball just before it
got over her head. A good attempt to steal the ball, Anijza pulled it back
down and they tussled for it furiously at the center of the court.
The teacher's whistle blew. "Jump ball!" she cried striding out onto the
court.
Vicious stares were traded, Akane and Anijza backing away from each other
while their teacher held the ball up between them. Ukyo thought she was
about to call the game and end what was clearly becoming a battle of wills,
but she glanced at both of them then tossed the ball up into the air.
Ukyo knew Akane could jump and jump high. An easy pick and score, she stood
suddenly amazed at what happened next. Anijza's hand shot past Akane's, her
body hanging in the air almost as if held aloft by some mystical power.
Nobody could believe it, and Akane eyes went wide, letting out a cry as her
hands missed their target. She landed; spinning around to late to stop a
now moving Anijza from sinking her shot though the hoop.
Eight to four with the home team on the verge of defeat.
"You want to surrender now, Akane?" Anijza asked.
Not a sound came from Akane; her head hung arms down at her side, fury
vibrating her body. She suddenly pointed sharply towards Anijza's side of
the court conveying that this contest was not over yet.
"You are going to lose, Akane," said Anijza.
Silently, Akane retrieved the basketball and stood glaring across the court.
I can take her, she thought; I know I can take her!
If Anijza got the ball back down the court after her next score, it was game
over and Akane knew it. No doubt she would be allowed to make this shot,
but Akane had a plan in mind to counter anything this girl might try.
At least she hoped.
Just as predicted, Anijza allowed Akane to make her points bringing the
score up eight to six. Anijza retrieved the ball Akane backed up but
remained on her side of the court.
"Oh? Committing suicide?" said Anijza.
"If I allow you to get within range I'm done," answered Akane. "That's not
going to happen, Anijza. I've figured out much of your style and I think I
can keep you from making a clean shot."
"Really? Hmm... we'll see about that."
Anijza brought the ball out dribbling hard only to find Akane right with her
step for step. She tried faking, darting back and forth but each time Akane
had an arm or hand in the way covering any opening. The duel reached a
climax as Anijza pressed her trying to get clear. Soon they reached half
court and it looked like Akane's plan was succeeding.
Suddenly, Anijza stopped going to the upper right corner of Akane's side.
As she stood slowly bouncing the basketball with steady deliberate beats,
Anijza began chuckling lightly. "You've lost, Akane Tendo," she said,
bringing the ball up over her head.
"No way," Ukyo muttered, but it was what she thought and feared.
Anijza let fly with the basketball and all eyes watched as it arched
perfectly through the air straight though the hoop without even touched the
sides or net.
It was a three-pointer making the final score eleven to six.
An awkward silence followed; Akane standing with jaw agape at the hoop in
utter disbelief. The rest of the class, including the teacher stared at
Anijza shocked by the defeat of their reigning champion. There was not much
anyone could say or do, forced to accept what just transpired.
Finally, Ukyo broke from her stupor and turned to the teacher. "Uh, I think
we've had enough Basketball for today."
The teacher shook her head and cleared her throat. "Uh yes, Ukyo. I do
believe you are right," she replied.
* * * * *
The next class came and went, but Akane could not shake the shock of her
loss at the hands of Anijza. It was lunchtime now and she sat alone off
near a cluster of trees well away from the rest of the students. The word
of her defeat passed quickly around the school and she could not bear to
endure the humility and shame it brought.
Not to mention Ranma probably would not allow her to live it down.
Akane let out a light grunt, smiling sadly while opening her lunchbox. I
can hear him now she mused, 'Lost, eh! Goes to show what a good looking
person can do against an un-cute Tomboy!'.
Anger flushed her cheeks, fist balling tight. "Listen to me!" she grumbled
to herself, "It was just a game!" Akane's fury melted away into sobs. "A
game I lost to that girl," she finished, crying into her hands.
Something appeared over her shoulder. Akane sensed a presence behind her and
looked up to find Ranma holding a handkerchief out to her.
"Ranma," she said then turned away.
He sat down beside Akane and gazed innocently up at the sky. Finally, Akane
found the nerve to face him. They were quiet waiting for the other to
speak.
"So, ah... heard you, uhm... you had yourself a basketball game today?"
asked Ranma.
Akane tensed. "Don't start with me, Ranma," she answered.
"I'm not starting anything," he replied. Another awkward moment passed.
"She really beat you?"
Akane spun around. "Damn it, Ranma!" Reigning in her anger, she took in a
few breaths to calm down. Fury gave way to truth, Akane's shoulders sagging
slightly. "Yes."
Losing was bad enough for someone as athletic as Akane; losing to a
foreigner and another woman to boot a serious blow to her prestige. Gently,
Ranma placed an arm around her. Akane did not resist as he drew her close
and soon she was sobbing lightly into his chest.
"Don't cry," he told her trying to sooth her sorrows. "It was only a game.
We all know you're still the best basketball player in Furinkan."
Akane hugged him tighter, pleased by his words. "But she humiliated me in
front of my entire class!"
"She outscored you yes, but from what I heard you put up a darned good
fight."
"It was as if, as if she was possessed," continued Akane. Drawing back, she
looked up at him with a serious gaze. "Ranma, there is something wrong with
Anijza."
Ranma smirked. What? What could be wrong with her? She seems normal to
me."
Akane turned away and drew her knees up to her chest, resting her chin on
them. Thoughts about the strange exchange student passed. "It was like I
was playing a totally different person," she said. "All of that
cutesy-cuddly innocence turning into..."
Her words trailed leaving Ranma hanging on for the rest.
"Okay I'll bite. Turned into what?" he finally asked.
"I don't know, but, but it was not Anijza." She faced him again. "Or maybe
it was the real Anijza."
The fear at the back of her eyes could be clearly seen by Ranma. He started
to say something, paused and then gave her a wry look. "Are you sure this
is not jealousy speaking here?"
"Ranma!"
Ranma broke out into a laugh pulling Akane close once more. His playful
teasing cheered Akane's spirits and they both lay back laughing together on
the ground. Finally, Akane pushed herself up on her arms.
"You really think I'm the best Basketball player in school?" she asked.
"Sure... after me of course."
Akane's fist thumped Ranma hard on his chest making him laugh aloud once
more. They giggled uncontrollable stopping abruptly as a long shadow
suddenly loomed across them. Ranma tipped his head back looking straight up
at the polished end of a training sword.
Tatewaki Kuno stood glaring down at Ranma; Ukyo Kuonji at his side not
liking what she saw either. His teeth grit tight together a scowl written
on his face.
"Saotome," hissed Tatewaki, "how dare you take advantage of my betrothed;
the fair and delicate Akane!"
Ranma smiled. "Upperclassman Kuno. What a pleasant surprise!" The tip of
the sword pricked his nose.
"Release my beloved at once!"
"Yeah," Ukyo chimed in. "Lets get some distance between you two, okay?"
Ranma and Akane sat up.
"We weren't doing anything," said Ranma.
Tatewaki stuffed his sword into sash tied around his waist. "I should smite
you down, Saotome, but I do not think my dearest Akane would appreciate your
blood spilled across her fine blanket."
"I'm not your 'beloved'," said Akane. "We were just talking about Anijza
that's all."
"Ah, yes," replied Tatewaki, raising a finger up thoughtfully. He reached
into his shirt and pulled out a bouquet of flowers kneeling before her.
"For you, my love. To soften the blow from your defeat suffered this
morning."
A hard slap sent the flowers sailing away. Ranma drew back from Akane as
she rose up on her knees. Tatewaki wisely fled before she could get within
arms reach retreating behind Ukyo.
"I did not mean to insult you, Akane!" he said over Ukyo's shoulder.
Again, truth took over; Akane letting out her breath staring at the ground.
"Akane? Akane are you all right?" asked Ranma inching closer to her.
"This is not going to go away any time soon," she said in a low voice.
"Not as long as Anijza is around," replied Ukyo. She sat down pulling
Tatewaki with her. "So what do you intend to do?"
Akane frowned at her. "What do you mean?"
"Are you going to let her get away with beating you like that?"
"What are you saying, Ukyo?"
She rolled her eyes up to the sky. "I'm saying get in some practice, and
then challenge her to another game of one-on-one."
Instantly, Akane's eyes brightened as the idea. "Yes!" she cried, "I'll
show that hussy who's the best here. I'll-."
"Now hold on a minute," Ranma cut in. He appeared upset at Akane, looking
at both her and Ukyo with some dissatisfaction. "I can't believe you two.
Anijza is our guest and you want to humiliate her because she played a
better game of basketball?"
Akane flinched stung by his comment. "Ranma, you're not siding with Anijza
over me... are you?"
"You're being a bad sport about this Akane," he answered. "You don't see
Upperclassman Kuno plotting revenge upon me every time I beat him down, do
you?"
"Every day," quipped Tatewaki.
Ranma cut him a brief look then continued. "Listen, Akane. I'm with you,
but don't be so vengeful about it."
Ukyo could see a shimmer of tears forming in Akane's eyes. Although not a
close friend, she still could not stand to see Akane's feelings hurt.
"Ranma!" she shouted. "I saw the game and if Anijza were here right now
she'd probable be grinding Akane's nose in the fact that she beat her."
"Anijza? I find that hard to believe."
"Believe it, and for that matter where is your imported shadow anyway?"
"Library. She said something about reviewing current math theories."
Akane's brows shot up. "That reminds me. Ranma," she called. He turned
and was greeted by the palm of Akane's open hand across his face.
He fell back shocked by the blow. "What the hell was that for?" shouted
Ranma.
"For allowing Anijza to get you into so much trouble!"
"I have heard about this," Tatewaki cut in, "I understand that you Saotome
have been foolish enough to challenge Sensei Mukuro's math test."
"So?"
"With the highest score?"
"With a perfect score!"
Ukyo gaped at him. "Ranma, you are kidding?" she asked.
"No. Anijza is going to help me do it."
"Anijza!"
"Yes, Anijza," drawled Akane.
Tatewaki laughed irking Ranma. "What's so funny?"
"You and your misguided notion of acing that test."
"What's so misguided about acing this test?"
Kuno smiled. "No one has ever, I mean ever, aced Sensei Mukuro's Ultimate
All-Maddening Test of Death!"
It was if a crash of thunder accompanied his words; Ranma flinching sharply
back. He gaped at him and then smirked.
"Ultimate All-Maddening Test of Death?"
"Nobody has aced it," Tatewaki said again. His eyes narrowed. "Not even
Gosunkugi."
Another crash of thunder, Akane and Ukyo drawing in fearful breaths.
Behind them walking across the lawn appeared Anijza. In her arms she
carried two large books and as she got closer she could see the shocked
expression on Ranma's face. No doubt those two intruders and that buffoon
looking male were the cause of it, she knew she better get over there and
drive out their misbegotten spells.
Anijza called out to Ranma and they all looked back at her. A stuttered
gasp emanated from Tatewaki and he shot to his feet. "It is the pigtailed
girl!" he exclaimed surging towards her. A tight grip around one ankle sent
Kuno crashing chin first to the ground.
"She's not the 'pigtailed girl', Upperclassman Kuno," Ranma told him. "This
is Anijza Kwong; the exchange student who whooped up on Akane today."
Akane's fist came down hard on the top of his head.
Tatewaki instantly came back up to his feet eyeing Anijza. "And such an
attractive exchange student she is," he said in a seductive voice.
A grim look came to Anijza, eyes narrowing slightly with annoyance.
Ignoring Kuno's lurid advance, she went past and sat down beside Ranma.
Akane's dagger filled gaze followed her, but she ignored it setting the
books down on the ground.
"Ranma-chan," she said to him.
"Chan?" questioned Ukyo, ready to pounce.
Anijza shook Ranma back to consciousness. His eyes focused making out the
blurred figure above him. "Anijza?" he moaned.
"Did I wake you, Ranma-chan?"
Akane rolled her eyes sickened buy Anijza innocent demeanor. "No he's
reeling from shock over your out-of-place decision you made for him
earlier."
Sensing the barb, Anijza slowly turned around. "I have made nothing of the
sort, Akane."
"Oh, and he will get the highest score on the test," mocked Akane, mimicking
her innocent features.
"It will be true!" snapped Anijza.
"Anijza, that math test is the hard," Ukyo told her. "Ranma will be lucky
if he gets the minimal passing score."
"Well there you go, Ranma," Anijza said. "Shows you how much faith your
so-called 'wives' have in you."
Ukyo and Akane shot to their feet. "What!" they both cried.
Ranma sat up. "Well... she is kind of right," he said.
"Heh, heh, heh, heh... better watch how you say this, Saotome," chuckled
Tatewaki, "not that I would mind watching you get flailed alive."
"Ranma! Are you... are you agreeing with Anijza?"
He shrugged. "At first I thought this could be the worst thing to happen to
me, but-." He paused a moment trying not to say something that would insult
Akane, or Ukyo. "Anijza seems to have faith in me."
"But she doesn't know how hard this test is!" said Ukyo.
"Neither do any of us!"
"I do," said Tatewaki.
"Did you pass?" asked Anijza.
Tatewaki grimaced, fidgeting uncomfortable around. "Uh, it was a score I
would like to keep secret," he finally told them.
"Did you pass?" asked Anijza again.
Clutching a fist to his forehead, Tatewaki let out a long sigh. "Yes, but
it was not the perfect score a Kuno would be proud of!"
Anijza smiled looking back up at the girls. "See. If he can pass, Ranma ca
n pass."
"But not with a perfect score!" replied Akane.
"Ooo," mused Anijza. She frowned, rubbing her chin thoughtfully, and then
smiled again. "Was not part of the deal, but I can fit that one in too."
"Not possible," said Tatewaki.
Akane dropped back down and knelt close beside Ranma. Her eyes pleaded with
him, almost begging Ranma to abort what she felt was a foolish attempt.
"Ranma... I don't want to see you get set back because of this," she said.
"I won't. If Anijza here thinks I can do it, then damn it I'm going to!"
Akane drew up eye to eye with him, angered by his stubbornness. "Baka! How
can you trust this foreigner! You hardly know her!"
Anger flashed in Ranma's eyes. "Because she's willing to show some faith in
me, Akane! As for knowing her, I don't, but I know you and I are in the
same class!"
"What's that supposed to mean?"
He gently pushed her back keeping his dark glower on her. "I don't remember
you offering me any help."
Akane virtually jumped away from him stung by the remark. Harsh words, so
harsh both Ukyo and Tatewaki were stunned by them. Silence prevailed;
Anijza secretly enjoying the pain Akane was suffering. This would no doubt
end their close relationship, the remaining three so-called wives nothing
but minute nuances easily brushed aside.
Finally, Akane reached down and began to gather her things. "Okay. Okay,
you want to get set back, you get set back," she said. Shaking hands
fumbled with the things on the ground as she fought to leave the area before
tears could flow. Ranma knew he had hurt her.
"Akane," he said but she cut him off.
"No!" Tears shimmered in Akane's eyes. "You want to be foolish, be
foolish! See... see if I care!"
"I'm not being foolish, and you could have some faith in me!"
"Why, when you've got a new somebody to nurture your stupid ego!"
"Uh, Akane... Ranma," said Ukyo. They ignored her.
"Well I'm going to show you, Akane. I'm going to ace that test so you
better be ready to eat your words!"
"The only thing I'm going to be eating is a chocolate parfait sundae in
celebration of my passing that test! You on the other hand will be drowning
in sorrow wondering how you could be so stupid in the first place!"
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah!"
Akane stormed off leaving Ranma behind in a furious stupor. This was the
biggest blowout ever Ukyo thought glancing back and forth between the
couple. Ranma flopped back down onto the ground trying to settle himself.
Before she could go to his side, Anijza appeared taking up what was becoming
her familiar spot on his arm.
"Don't mind her," she said cooing close to his ear, "You are going to show
them all."
He sighed. "Are you sure?" asked Ranma.
"Faith, remember?"
Ukyo sneered. This was starting to make her sick. Ranma cut a glance up at
her and she smirked turning away. "Akane!" called Ukyo, running after her.
Again the silence, then Tatewaki shifted rising up. Ranma tensed expecting
him to draw, but the Upperclassman stood quietly staring down at them.
"You want some of me too?" Ranma asked.
"No," answered Tatewaki. "I think you have suffered enough pain today." He
walked away leaving the couple alone.
Ranma watched him go then looked at Anijza. She let out a giggle hugging
his arm tight. Somehow, it did nothing more but make him feel worse.
"What have I done?" he muttered, hanging his head in his hands...
* * * * *
Akane walked home alone that day.
As she shuffled along her mind filled with the memories of what had to be
the worst day of her life. Torn between anger at Ranma for what she thought
was stupidity, and deep concern for his well being; confusion reigned as a
tug-o-war battle raged in her heart.
It was all because of this exchange student, she thought bitterly. The heat
rose at her cheeks in the mere suggestion of Anijza and what mayhem she
caused. A full day and a half and here she was acting like she'd know Ranma
for decades. It was not right! For him to place his entire future in her
hands was idiotic to the point of outright insanity.
Akane's angry musings subsided. Or was it?
In a way, Anijza was right about showing some confidence in Ranma, and his
comment about helping him had hit home. She knew he was not excelling in
their math class, but from her recollection his grades would not get him set
back as long as he maintained his current standing. Sadness flowed through
her. Yes... yes I could have been more help, but he didn't ask for it!
Did he need too?
The gates of the dojo were just up ahead; Akane shuffled though them without
any real care of arriving home. Walking up the footpath she could see her
father and Mister Saotome working around the grounds. They gave her brief
looks, more akin to looks of concern before continuing on with their chores.
She entered the home and kicked off her shoes.
"Hello," she said as she entered the living room where Nabiki and Kasumi sat
watching the T.V. They both turned expecting to see Ranma with her, but
when he did not show they traded looks. Nabiki picked up the remote and
shut off the T.V.
Uh-oh," Akane thought as she sat down at the table. Kasumi gazed upon her
for a moment.
"So it is true," she finally said.
"What's true?" asked Akane.
"You got... how did you put it, Nabiki? 'Drove' today?"
Akane's mouth fell open. "What! I did not get 'drove' today!" she shouted.
"Like a Hyundai," commented Nabiki without so much as a care.
"No! Oh no!" cried Akane. "I am not going to sit here and take any flak
from you two!"
Nabiki chuckled, waving her off. "Calm down, little sister," she said. "My
network told me all about your loss at Anijza's hands.
"She, she, she cheated!"
"Hardly. My spies witnessed everything. You got beat fair and square."
Akane slammed a fist down on the table nearly cracking it in half. She got
up and went to the patio doorway, fuming in bitter silence. Kasumi called
to her and she looked around.
"Akane, we're not worried about you loosing to Anijza," she said.
"Well bringing it up like you did does not help at all!" Akane yelled at
her.
"Such anger," said Nabiki.
"You'd be angry too if this was you, Nabiki!"
Akane paused drawing in a deep breath. "I'm sorry," she said.
"We understand," replied Kasumi, "we're more concerned about your
relationship with Ranma."
Akane let out a derisive grunt, gazing back out across the yard. A hand
came down on her shoulder, Kasumi's warm and gentle features appearing
beside Akane. They stared at each other then Akane could not hold back her
grief. She embraced her tight crying into her sister's chest.
"There, there, Akane," said Kasumi, stroking her hair gently. "It's not all
that bad."
"Kasumi! I've had such a terrible day!"
"Yes, I understand this." Gently, Kasumi pulled Akane away from her staring
deep into her eyes. "From what I see it's nothing more than a little
jealousy."
"Huh?"
"What she's saying, little sister is that you are reacting very badly to
Anijza's presence."
Akane broke away from Kasumi. "I am not!" she cried squaring off with
Nabiki.
"I'm afraid you are, Akane," added Kasumi.
"Huh?" Akane spun around not believing her ears. Both sisters were siding
against her in this hour of crisis? All because of that witch cooing up to
her man!
"Listen Akane," continued Nabiki, "Arguing with Ranma like you did is way
above the normal spats you have had in the past."
"You know about that?"
Nabiki smiled. "Nothing escapes my network, sis. Now then, as a fellow
woman I can understand your feelings for Ranma and the concern for him.
However, Ranma can take care of himself."
"He's literally placed his future in Anijza's hands, Nabiki! This is only
her second day here and already she's got him wrapped around her finger."
"Akane," said Kasumi. "Anijza is only offering to help him pass your
upcoming math final that's all. What's the harm in that?"
"You both know what will happen to him if he fails, or does not get the top
score, right?"
Kasumi and Nabiki traded looks. "Yes," Nabiki answered.
"And you don't think I should be concerned?"
"No," said Kasumi.
Akane sat down again, leaning towards Nabiki. "Do you know what her math
background is?" she asked.
A good question, one Nabiki was ready to answer. "My sources in the
administration department did some research for me. Anijza has a history of
excellence in mathematics."
"She does?"
"A-huh. Her average is almost perfect."
"So you see, Akane. Ranma is in good hands," added Kasumi.
Coming from Nabiki, Akane could only sit stunned by the information. It
appeared that she indeed was overreacting to Anijza. There was something
though, something irking her mind, a notion that she was about to loose
Ranma. That was not going to happen, no!
"So when are you going to apologize?" said Nabiki breaking her from her
thoughts.
"Me, apologize?"
"To Ranma," said Kasumi.
"Oh... I should, shouldn't I?"
"Yep, and also to Anijza," Nabiki said.
Akane looked sharply at her. "That I will not do," she declared.
"She's just trying to help, and Ranma is not going to dump you for her."
"Yeah, like she helped humiliate me in front of my phys-ed class," replied
Akane. She sighed resting her head in her hands.
Kasumi patted her lightly on the back. "Not everyone can be the best all
the time, Akane," she told her.
She was right and Akane knew it. Laughing at herself, Akane leaned back.
Nabiki and Kasumi waited for her to say something, but she continued to
stare up at the ceiling.
"Akane, you haven't gone off on us, have you?" Nabiki asked.
"Huh? Oh, no I'm just picturing Ranma and his reaction when I admit to him
that I might be wrong."
"Burns your ass, doesn't it?"
No reply was needed; Akane giving her a unpleasant stare.
Through the patio door Mousse suddenly appeared carrying several bags of
groceries in his arms straining to keep them together.
"Kasumi... I think I... got everything you wanted... me to get!" he said
amidst his grunts.
"Put them in the pantry, Mousse," she told him. "I'll be there in a
second."
Mousse trundled out the room.
"Gee, that was nice of Mousse," said Akane. "I didn't know the Nekohatten
was doing grocery deliveries now."
"They're not," said Kasumi, getting up. "Mousse is staying with us now."
"He is?"
"Something about Cologne and your little accident yesterday?" explained
Nabiki.
Akane gasped in shock. She remembered Mousse saying something to the
affects that Cologne might fire him, but she never thought it would happen.
It was more bad luck and it felt like it had something to do with Anijza.
"Can't have him out on the street," she said.
"True. So, are you going to make up with Ranma?"
"Yes, I guess I better."
"And Anijza?"
Akane hesitated a moment. Nabiki arched a brow at her and she finally
nodded.
"Good! Now I've got to go and update my ledgers. Kasumi will have diner
ready soon so why don't you go up and relax a while, okay?"
"Sure," Akane said sadly. Before she could rise, Nabiki reached out gently
taking her by the shoulders.
"Akane, the only person who has Ranma wrapped around their finger is you,
okay?"
"You think so?"
"Yes. Now stop worrying."
Nabiki leaned back trading a smile with her sibling. Akane, feeling
somewhat relieved, headed up the steps.
Laughing quietly to herself, Nabiki looked out across the backyard for a
moment.
"I should charge for my services," she said, giggling at the notion...