"Breaking Free", a Ranma 1/2 fan fiction, by KaraOhki, 1997-98. Send
comments to karaohki@snet.net
Ranma 1/2 and its characters were created by Rumiko Takahashi, and are
used here with apologies to her, and without permission.
This fiction was written for my enjoyment, and for the enjoyment of
others who love Ranma 1/2
BREAKING FREE
Prologue
The view outside the window was of night, and snow falling. The faint
outlines of other buildings in the complex could be seen through the
blowing snow, and after a while, Soun Tendo tired of watching it fall,
and turned around.
There were three other occupants of the room, and all of them were
asleep. Kasumi and Nabiki were together on a couch. Kasumi had her arm
around her sister, and wore a worried expression on her usually serene
face. It was obvious from the tears on Nabikis cheeks that she had
cried herself to sleep, and Soun wiped away his own tears.
At the far end of the room a small blanket-covered figure was curled
up in an armchair, and Soun hesitantly approached her. Akane was
sleeping, her face no longer showing the fury it had an hour ago. As
her father observed her, Akane stirred, and the blanket slipped to the
floor. Soun picked it up, covered her gently, and went back to his own
chair, to await the return of his friends, the Saotomes, who had gone
downstairs to have a cup of tea.
Chapter 1
Its My Decision
"Mrs. Saotome?"
Akane woke, and opened her eyes. Ranmas doctor was standing before
her. Her expression changed from weariness to fear.
"Yes?"
"Please come with me. We need to talk privately."
Akane nodded, and tried to stand up. The doctor could see that she was
having difficulty, and helped her out of the chair. Without sparing a
glance for the sleeping occupants of the room, Akane followed the
doctor to his office.
The doctor poured Akane a cup of tea, and waited for her patiently
while she sat with the cup between both palms, watching the steam
rise. Eventually, Akane squared her shoulders, and looked up. Ranmas
doctor had sent her out of the room while he examined him, and she had
been waiting impatiently for what had seemed years for some word.
"Im ready. What did you want to tell me?"
The doctor smiled. "Your husband has improved, Mrs. Saotome. My
colleagues and I believe that its no longer necessary to keep him on
life support, but the final decision is yours. You must understand
that there is some risk, but its very small."
Akane nodded. "Go on, please."
"Do you want to go back and wake up your family, so that you can
discuss this with them?"
Akane smiled faintly, and shook her head. After what the doctor had
witnessed of their last "family discussion", she couldnt believe that
hed asked.
"No, let them sleep. Ranma is my husband, and its my decision. Is it
all right to go back to his room yet? Id like to sit with him while I
think."
"Go ahead, and take your time. When youre ready, use the phone in his
room to call me. Heres my extension number."
*****
Akane entered Ranmas room, and quietly closed the door behind her. The
equipment surrounding her husband was making the same quiet whirring
noises as before, and Akane looked around at all the read outs. She
didnt understand them, but at least none of the alarms were ringing.
Shed been present when the man across the hall died, and every alarm
in his room went off.
Akane leaned over, and kissed Ranmas forehead, avoiding the large
bruise on one side of it.
"Im back, love. Can you hear me?"
Akane studied Ranmas face intently, but could see no change of
expression on it, or any indication that hed heard her. She touched
the bruise with her fingertips. It felt hot--a contrast to his hands,
which were ice cold.
Akane watched Ranmas chest rise and fall, in rhythm with the machinery
that controlled it. The rest of his body was still.
A shiver of fear ran through her, and she looked once more at the
readouts on the monitors. Nothing had changed. If so, what was wrong?
Akane closed her eyes, trying to determine what was disturbing her.
She began to see very clear images of her husband, all of them in
motion. Akane could see Ranma running along the fence, accompanying
her to school. She remembered him sparring with his father, and with
her.
Ranma was always in motion, it seemed. Even when they lay in each
others arms late into the night, talking, he was always caressing her,
or tangling his fingers in her hair.
Akane opened her eyes, and looked at Ranma again. Normally when he
slept she could still see the life under the surface, his vitality.
This was not sleep, this was like death.
Coming to that realization was enough to help Akane make her decision.
She started to rise, and fell back into the chair, one hand to her
stomach. Akane raised Ranmas hand to her cheek, holding it there while
her tears fell onto it.
"Please come back to us, Ranma. We both need you. I dont want to raise
our daughter by myself."
Akane placed Ranmas limp hand flat against her stomach, hoping he
would feel the movement within. There was no reaction from him, and
she released his hand and reached for the phone.
*****
The wind whistled in Ranmas ears, and the darkness around him was
impenetrable. He wanted to raise his arms and feel around in the dark
to find out where he was, but his muscles wouldnt respond.
What kind of place was he trapped in, and why couldnt he move?
Then Ranma stopped struggling, because he heard a faint voice calling
to him. He recognized the voice, and tried to answer.
"Akane?"
The word never reached his lips. Ranma felt something blocking his
throat; something that prevented him from speaking, and even from
breathing. He struggled against it.
*****
Genma strode down the hallway, and spotted Ranmas doctor ahead of him.
He increased his pace, and soon pushed his way through the crowd of
medical personnel accompanying the doctor.
"How is my son, Doctor? Has there been any change?"
"Hes improved, Mr. Saotome. Im on my way to disconnect the respirator,
so that he can start breathing on his own."
"How dare you do such a thing without consulting me!"
"Excuse me, sir, but the decision was his wifes."
The light of battle in Genmas eyes was enough to make the doctor back
up a step, but before he could respond a piercing alarm came from
Ranmas room. The door flew open, and Akane emerged, and grabbed the
doctors arm.
"Help him, help him, please!"
Genma started to follow everyone as they ran into Ranmas room, but one
of the doctors assistants closed the door, and stood in front of it.
"Im sorry, sir, but you cant go in right now."
"But if Akane can go in . . ."
"There isnt enough room, sir. Stay nearby, and Ill keep you informed."
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 2
A Look Backwards
Akane moved her chair close to Ranma, so that she could hold his hand.
When the doctor had come into the room, hed discovered that the alarm
was ringing because Ranma was trying to breathe on his own, which was
impossible with the tube going down his throat.
Akane had been close to panic, but once the tube had been removed, she
was relieved to see him stop struggling, and breathe normally. She was
concerned though, that he hadnt woken up. The doctor, though,
reassured her.
"Give him time, Mrs. Saotome. Hes been through a lot. Im sure hell be
waking up within the next few hours. Ill send up something for you to
eat, and you should get some rest."
"Im not really hungry, Doctor."
The doctor folded his arms, and frowned at her.
"You may not be hungry, but you need to eat for your childs sake. And
after the scene in here with your family, you need some rest."
Akane flushed. Her father and father-in-law had burst into the room.
Theyd berated Akane for making the decision to stop the life support
without consulting them, and accused the doctor of trying to kill
Ranma. The doctors response (with Akanes full agreement), was to have
them tossed out of the hospital. Akane, however, was not about to
leave Ranmas side.
"Please dont tell me to leave."
"I wouldnt. Someone will bring in a cot for you."
Akane turned back to Ranma, and leaned over to kiss his cheek. His
hands were warmer than they had been, and he looked more comfortable.
She was determined to stay awake until he opened his eyes, and decided
to keep herself alert by talking to him.
"Has it ever been easy for us, love? Remember what happened after the
wedding everyone spoiled for us?"
*****
Akane sat beside Ranma, fidgeting, while her father lectured them.
". . . so well have to postpone the wedding for now."
Soun finished talking, and left the room. Ranma and Akane looked at
each other uncomfortably, and got up. Ranma started to walk away, but
Akane put her hand on his arm to stop him.
"Im sorry about the water, Ranma. You deserved to be cured."
"Yeah, Akane. Im sorry, too."
Ranma looked like he wanted to say something else, but turned around
and left. He went outside, and sat down by the pond. Akane was sorry
he wasnt cured, but was she sorry they werent married? He couldnt
tell.
Akane looked at Ranma sitting by himself, and resisted the urge to go
sit beside him. If hed wanted her company, he could have asked for it.
Perhaps he was relieved that their wedding had been interrupted. She
had to put it behind her, and go back to school as if nothing had
happened.
That was easier said than done. First of all, Ranma had left his usual
perch on the fence, and walked beside her all the way to school. He
hadnt been very talkative, but having him so close made her nervous.
Akane would have been more nervous, however, if shed had any idea what
awaited her at the school gates.
When they turned the corner, all of the male students were waiting for
Akane. They shoved Ranma aside, and surrounded her.
"Akane, youre free again! Date me!"
This and other similar demands were hurled at Akane, and she began to
react the same way she had in the past. Ranma pushed his way towards
her, past flying bodies and books.
"Leave me alone! Go away, all of you!"
Ranmas voice stopped them. Without shouting, his quiet question made
them all pay attention.
"What gives you guys the idea that Akane is available?"
One of the seniors stepped forward, a sneer on his face.
"You didnt marry her, did you?"
The boy stepped towards Akane, reaching out his hand, but Ranma
stepped between them. Akane jumped, looking at Ranma in surprise when
he took her hand, and held it firmly.
"Dont even think about it. Akane is still my fiancee."
Before Akane could recover enough to respond to Ranmas statement, an
unwelcome voice chimed in behind them.
"Is that so, Saotome? An honorable man would have married her. You
failed."
Akane yelped as Ranmas grip tightened involuntarily. He let go of her
hand, looking apologetic, and turned around to face Kuno.
"I cant believe you have the nerve to talk about honor, Kuno, after
what you did."
For the first time, Ranma actually heard Kuno stutter.
"I, um, um, had, "
"Would you spit it out already?"
"I had to, Saotome. How could I allow my precious Akane Tendo to make
such a horrible mistake, and ruin her life?"
As Ranmas foot connected with Kunos chin, he felt a wave of searing
heat, and saw a small fist beside his foot. Kuno sailed away, leaving
a small trail of smoke in the blue sky.
Ranma quickly stepped away from the source of the heat. Akane was
glowing with anger, both fists tightly clenched. The glow slowly faded
as she calmed down, and Ranma then stepped forward and took her hand.
The crowd parted before them, and they walked into the school.
BREAKING FREE
Chapter Three
The One I Want
Akane took another sip of her soup, and yawned. The light coming
through the window was getting brighter, though the snow still fell.
Despite her determination to stay awake, Akane had fallen asleep
sitting next to Ranma. When shed awakened, shed found herself on the
cot in his room, covered with a blanket.
Akane lost interest in her soup, and put it aside. She stroked Ranmas
cheek, and smiled at him.
"You need a shave, love."
Ranma didnt respond, and Akane kissed his cheek. The stubble tickled.
"Where were we when I fell asleep? Lets see . . ."
*****
If Akane thought that the worst was over once shed left the boys
behind, she was mistaken. The girls were waiting for her inside. Akane
was surrounded by her friends, some of whom expressed sympathy, and
some of whom congratulated her on a narrow escape. Akane wasnt sure
which viewpoint reflected her own, and kept quiet. She was unable to
maintain that silence; however, when Toshi approached her. She and
Akane had never gotten along, and Toshi couldnt help but rub her nose
in what had happened.
"Oh poor, poor, Akane! Its bad enough that you hate your fiancé, but
to be rejected by him like that! You must be devastated."
Akane flushed, and stood up.
"You are mistaken, Toshi. We were interfered with."
Toshi smiled in a way that made Akane want to slap her.
"And if you hadnt been, Akane dear? Would Ranma have married you, or
would he have run for his life?"
Akane just stood there, unable to respond. Across the room, Ranma was
surrounded by his friends, who were alternately teasi ng him and
sympathizing with him. He wasnt paying too much attention, because he
was observing Akane. Ranma could see that she looked very unhappy. He
wasnt too concerned, since he knew that she was capable of taking care
of herself, but when Akane turned white he left his friends behind and
crossed the room to her side.
"Akane, whats wrong?"
"Nothing, Ranma."
Refusing to take that for an answer, Ranma grabbed Akanes arm and
dragged her out to the hallway.
"Dont lie to me, Akane. Tell me."
"I cant. Not here."
"Then were leaving. Go get your sweater, Akane, and meet me behind the
building."
Akane was halfway to her locker when she stopped, and looked behind
her. She and Ranma had missed so much time from school because of
their trip to China, and hed just asked her to cut class with him. Why
was she listening? It was too late to say no, though, and she
continued on her way.
Ranma re-entered the classroom and gathered his and Akanes things
together. When he left the room and headed for the back door, he was
unaware that he was being followed.
*****
Ranma left the school and headed for a small stand of trees behind the
building. This would be a good place to talk to Akane privately. He
sensed the presence of someone behind him, and spoke without turning
around.
"That was fast, Akane."
"Its me, Ran-Chan."
Ranma whirled. Ukyo stood behind him. He hadnt seen her since shed
help break up his wedding.
"Go away, Ukyo. I have nothing to say to you."
Ukyo looked rather disappointed, and came closer.
"Not even a thank you, Ranma? After all, I helped save you from a fate
worse than death."
Ranmas anger toward Ukyo, which had been simmering for days, exploded.
"How dare you! Do you expect me to thank you for what you did? You
might have killed Akane!"
Ukyos face fell.
"You mean you would have married her? But I thought you cared for me!
Please, Ran-Chan . . ."
Before Ranma could react, Ukyo had thrown herself onto him, kissing
him passionately. He put his hands on her arms, to try to push her
away, and heard a gasp. Akane had arrived.
Ranma forcefully pushed Ukyo away from him, and held out his hands to
Akane, who was backing away.
"Akane, wait!"
Akane was looking at him with wide eyes, and was even paler than shed
been previously. Se let out a strangled sob, turned, and ran. Ranma
started after her, but Ukyo grabbed his arm, trying to restrain him.
"Ranma, dont leave! Please, you must have felt something just now. You
cant say that didnt mean anything to you."
Ranma slowly turned to Ukyo. He saw that she was trying not to cry,
and knew that what he was about to say wouldnt help.
"I did feel something, Ukyo. I felt sick. Dont touch me again."
As hed expected, Ukyo burst into tears, and Ranma hesitated for a
second.
He was stuck once more in the position he hated most--caught between
two women. Only, for the first time, his choice was clear. He knew who
he wanted to be with. Ranma retrieved his and Akanes bags from the
ground, and left Ukyo behind.
Ranma ran all over town, looking for Akane, but no one had seen her,
and she wasnt in any of the places hed usually found her before. He
finally concluded that shed gone home, and started toward the dojo.
*****
Akane ignored Ranmas plea for her to wait, and ran. They had become so
close over the past few months, and even more so in China, and to see
him kissing Ukyo was too much to bear.
She ran blindly, not looking where she was going, and found herself at
home. Akane stopped before going inside to compose herself, and wipe
away her tears. It obviously wasnt enough, to judge by her sisters
reaction.
"Akane, what are you doing home? Is something wrong?"
"No, Sis. I just dont feel well. Excuse me, I think I want to lie
down."
Akane locked her door, and sat down on the bed. Sooner or later Ranma
would come home, and she didnt know what she was going to say to him.
Her usual response, which would be to hit him, didnt seem to be an
option. Akane felt too miserable to hit Ranma.
*****
Kasumi wasnt surprised to see Ranma arrive home a few minutes after
Akane did.
"If youre looking for Akane, Ranma, shes upstairs. Did you have
another fight?"
"No, Kasumi, but Im sure shes mad at me. Id better go up."
The house was quiet, and Ranma was grateful that his parents and
Akanes father were not at home. Theyd been spending a lot of time away
from the house lately. At least theyd miss the explosion. He went
upstairs, and knocked softly on Akanes door.
"Akane? May I come in?"
"Go away, Ranma."
"No, Akane. Let me in. Now."
Something in Ranmas tone made Akane get up and unlock her door. She
opened it for Ranma, and returned to the bed. Ranma closed the door
behind him and sat down in Akanes chair.
"Akane, please let me explain what you saw before."
"Why, Ranma? Im tired of your excuses. I know what I saw. You were
kissing Ukyo."
"No, Akane, she was kissing me. Its not what I wanted."
"Ranma, dont bother. Im tired. Im tired of having to compete for your
attention. Im tired of listening to this over and over again."
"Damn it, Akane, would you please listen to me!"
Ranma hadnt meant to shout at Akane, and seeing her eyes fill with
tears and overflow increased his guilt a hundredfold. He pulled her
into his arms, and let her cry on his shoulder.
Akane tried to withdraw from Ranmas arms, but he wouldnt let go, and
she gave up and sobbed into his shoulder. When she finally calmed
down, he let go, and she pulled back and looked up at him, rubbing her
eyes.
"Akane, dont you know by now that youre the one I want? I love you."
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 4
Hard Times
The wind had stopped its roaring, leaving Ranma alone in the darkness.
He could still hear Akane calling to him, and he tried to answer.
"Akane?"
Ranmas faint whisper made Akane jump. She stopped her narrative, and
leaned toward him. Had she imagined it?
"Ranma? Ranma, can you hear me?"
Ranma thought he heard Akane again, but was unable to answer. He was
overpowered by the need to rest, to sleep . . .
Akane waited for some time, hoping Ranma would speak again. After a
while she sighed, found a more comfortable position in her chair, and
started her story again. She was so sure that Ranma was listening.
*****
Ranma could feel his face turning red. No, not just his face. The
blush was spreading down his neck, creeping toward his chest.
Ranma couldnt believe that hed blurted out the words "I love you" to
Akane. After all the planning hed done, waiting for the perfect
moment, to tell her in the middle of an argument? He knew she was
going to clobber him, and waited.
To his surprise, Akane froze, and then smiled. Taking the smile as an
encouraging sign, Ranma gathered Akane back into his arms, and tilted
her chin up with one hand.
Akane had wanted to hear Ranma say he loved her for such a long time
that at first nothing else mattered. She melted into his embrace, and
turned her face toward his, waiting to be kissed.
Then an unwelcome vision came before her eyes. Ranma, kissing Ukyo.
Ranma was almost pushed off the bed by the violence of Akanes shove.
"Dont touch me!"
"What?"
Ranma inched further away from Akane, who looked like she was going to
breathe fire.
"You liar! How do you expect me to believe you, after what I saw?"
Akane expected Ranmas usual reaction. Anger. Shouting. That wasnt what
she got. Instead, Ranmas entire body sagged. For one uncomfortable
second, she thought he was going to cry. Then Ranma visibly controlled
himself, and spoke in a quiet, sad voice.
"Just once, Akane, I wish you would trust me. I guess its too much to
hope for."
Ranma got up, and walked toward the door. In those few seconds, their
entire relationship flashed through Akanes memory. How many times had
she trusted Ranma with her secrets, even with her life? Akane ran to
him, threw her arms around him from behind, and rested her cheek on
his back.
"Im sorry, Ranma. Please tell me what happened today. Im listening."
*****
Kasumi hummed to herself as she worked. She set the teapot on a small
tray, and added the sandwiches and fruit. At first, she had been
worried when she heard Akane shout at Ranma, but she hadnt heard any
further outbursts. Perhaps her sister was finally coming to her
senses. She picked up the tray, and started upstairs.
*****
Ranma finished his story, and waited for Akane to speak. She hadnt
interrupted him once, but had sat there quietly, letting him talk. The
only strong reaction shed showed was to gasp and turn pale when he
told her what hed said to Ukyo.
When Ranma stopped talking, Akane looked down at her lap, and clasped
her hands together. She didnt know what to say to him. Because of her
jealousy and lack of trust in Ranma, she had nearly chased him away.
Finally, she managed a whisper.
"I, Im sorry, Ranma. I do believe you."
Akane wanted to continue, and was very impatient with herself when the
tears began again, especially when she heard the concern in Ranmas
voice.
"Akane, Im sorry. I didnt mean to make you cry."
Akane finally looked up, shaking her head. Ranma couldnt believe it
when he saw that she was smiling.
"Baka. You dont know anything about girls, do you? We cry when were
happy."
"That has got to be the most kawaiikune thing . ."
Ranma found Akanes hand over his mouth, and was unable to complete his
statement. Then Akane leaned closer, and whispered into his ear.
"Be quiet, Ranma. Im trying to tell you that I love you, too."
Akane started to withdraw her hand from Ranmas mouth, but he grabbed
her wrist, pressed a kiss into her palm, and then released it. Once
more, he leaned forward, closed his eyes, and
Missed.
Akane had closed her eyes, but they flew open when Ranmas kiss landed
on the side of her nose. She tried to suppress it, but couldnt help
giggling. Soon they were in each others arms, laughing helplessly.
Ranmas second attempt was more successful. First kisses are often
clumsy and awkward, and this was one of them, but it was intriguing
enough for them to try a second, a third, and a fourth. Theyd lost
count when the door opened, and Kasumi came in.
"Oh my."
Ranma immediately released Akane, who turned bright red. Kasumi walked
in, set the tray on the desk, and walked back to the door. She started
out of the room, turned back, and smiled. Then she left, without a
word.
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 5
Leave Us Alone
Akane got up to stretch, and walked to the window. In the early
morning light she could see the traffic slowly making its way through
the snowy streets. Akane watched for a while as a crew of hospital
employees came out to clear the sidewalk and paths, and then left the
window to return to Ranmas side.
"Everything was so perfect when it was just the two of us, Ranma. It
was the rest of the world that wouldnt leave us alone, not even our
own families."
*****
Even though Ranma and Akane made no direct announcement to their
families about the resolution of their differences, their obvious
contentment in each others company was evidence enough. Soun and Genma
positively swelled with pride, claiming all of the credit, and began
quiet preparations for another wedding, without the knowledge or
consent of the prospective bride or groom.
At school, however, things were anything but quiet. The young men at
Furinkan High could not accept or become accustomed to the sight of
Ranma walking into the schoolyard every day holding Akanes hand.
Whether the individuals concerned were among the group of disbelievers
or those who were intensely jealous, the results were the same for
Ranma. He wasnt left alone for a minute. Ranma had too much pride to
feel the need to explain his relationship with Akane to the
disbelievers, and as far as the others were concerned, if they wanted
to challenge him for Akanes affection, they knew what kind of
treatment theyd receive.
After a few of them were carried away unconscious, the challenges
stopped, with the exception of Kuno, who insisted that Ranma had used
some sort of enchantment on Akane, and demanded that he release her.
Ranma took great pleasure in keeping Kuno off balance, with words and
fists. Since Kunos ego was so large that he believed Akane cared for
him, he refused to believe that she was lost to him until Ranma made
his claim on her evident to the world.
*****
Akane was writing a report when Ranma knocked on her door.
"Akane, are you busy?"
Akane finished jotting down the rest of her sentence, and closed her
book.
"Just finishing my homework, Ranma. Why? Arent you doing yours?"
"Im done, Akane. Meet me in the dojo."
Akane quickly finished what she was doing, and ran down to the dojo.
She was eager to have an opportunity to be alone with Ranma. It seemed
that every time she tried to be with him, someone or something was in
the way. When she slid the door open, Ranma was sitting on a pile of
mats, waiting for her.
"Akane, please lock the door."
Akane raised her eyebrows at the request, but locked the door and
joined Ranma on the mats. Ranma hugged her briefly, and then just sat
there, looking at her.
"Is something wrong, Ranma?"
Ranma shook his head, and reached out to touch Akanes cheek.
"No, Akane. Not as long as the door is locked and no one can bother
us."
"Do you mean whats happening at school, Ranma? Im getting tired of it,
too."
"Not just at school, Akane. Our families, too. I wish theyd stop
trying to run our lives. Our fathers started when we were babies, and
theyre still at it."
Akane stared. What was Ranma saying? She began to speak, but Ranma
hushed her.
"Dont, Akane. Let me finish. What Im trying to say is, we should make
our own decisions, and I need to know what you want."
"What I want, Ranma?"
Ranmas previous words had come out in a rush, as if hed been in a
hurry to get them out. Now he spoke haltingly.
"Akane, I mean our engagement. Um . . . because . . . I need to know -
is it because your father said so? Because I dont want that. I love
you, Akane. Will you marry me because YOU want to?"
Akanes answer was so soft it was nearly a whisper.
"I want to, Ranma."
Akane found herself in an embrace that was so tight she couldnt move.
Her cheek was crushed against Ranmas chest, and she felt his heart
thumping. Then Ranma abruptly released her.
"Close your eyes, Akane."
Akane obediently closed her eyes, and felt Ranma pick up her hand. She
had a hard time keeping them closed as she felt something slide onto
her finger.
"Okay, you can look now."
Akane looked into her fiancés eyes before she looked down at her hand.
He was smiling, the lines of tension that had been there earlier gone.
Then she looked down at the ring on her finger, which was gold,
holding a small pearl.
"How beautiful, Ranma."
Ranma drew her back into his arms for a kiss, and paused for a moment.
"Not as beautiful as you are."
*****
Across the room, behind a set of weights, a small pig dozed. Hed been
wandering all day, and had found himself (once more) at his beloved
Akanes house. Since she wasnt expected home from school yet, hed
hidden himself in the dojo to await her return. A strange sound
disturbed his slumber, and he stirred, and looked up, horrified at
what was happening across the room.
Akane was in Ranmas arms, and he was (as P-Chan viewed it) mauling
her. P-Chan got up to cross the room, and was frozen as he watched
Ranma lower Akane to the mat, still kissing her passionately. One of
Akanes hands clung tightly to Ranmas pigtail, while the other held
onto him.
P-Chan squealed, and ran toward them. Ranma and Akane both became
aware of his presence when he leaped onto Ranma, scratching his cheek.
Ranma let go of Akane, and grabbed the pig.
"Will you stop that!"
"Wait, Ranma."
"Akane?"
"Give him to me."
Akane took the pig, and walked to the door. She unlocked it, opened
it, and bent down to put him outside.
"Im sorry, Ryoga. Youre disturbing us. Please leave."
P-Chan cringed at hearing his true name, and behind Akane, Ranma
gasped. Then the pig turned, and ran. Akane re-locked the door, and
returned to Ranma, sitting beside him. She gently touched the scratch
on his cheek, which was no more than a red mark that would soon fade.
"Akane, you knew?"
"Yes, Ranma."
"How long?"
"I figured it out a while ago."
Ranma looked mystified.
"I thought you would kill the both of us. I couldnt tell you, Akane,
because it was my fault. I accidentally knocked Ryoga into the
spring."
Akane giggled.
"I knew there had to be a reason why he was so angry at you. Poor
Ryoga. I think his curse is worse than yours."
"Worse?"
"At least you stay human."
Akane put her arms around Ranmas neck, and brought her lips close to
his.
"But I like you better male."
Ranma was picking up where he left off when there was a knock on the
dojo door. Thinking it was his father, he was about to shout at him
when Kasumis voice came through.
"Ranma, Akane, dinner is ready."
*****
Everyone was already seated at the table, and Kasumi was passing bowls
of rice around, when Ranma and Akane entered and sat down. Ranma felt
something in the air, and looked suspiciously at his father, who was
acting oddly.
"Whats going on, Pop?"
"Youll have to start packing, boy. Were moving back to our house. Your
mother and Tendo have been helping me work on it for weeks."
"Pop?"
Nodoka responded.
"Weve been here long enough, dear. Its time to go home."
Akane involuntarily gasped, and clutched Ranmas hand.
"No."
The word came from both of them, causing everyone to focus attention
on the couple. Despite the fact that Akanes small hand was almost
entirely swallowed by Ranmas, Nabikis sharp eyes focused on her ring.
"Whats that on your hand, Akane?"
After the initial pandemonium died down, Akanes father folded his
arms, and looked seriously at the pair.
"If Ranma is going to stay in this house, Akane, then you have to
marry him. Now."
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 6
Wedding Blues
Akane paused, and chuckled.
"I can still remember the dead silence at the table after Daddy made
that statement. Neither of us knew what to say, at least I didnt, and
then I saw you turn red . . ."
*****
Ranma stood up, dragging Akane along with him.
"Will you stop it, already!"
Souns mouth dropped open.
"Ranma?"
"Stop trying to tell us what to do. Its our decision to make, not
yours."
Genma cleared his throat, and Ranma looked down at his father,
frowning.
"You have something to say, Pop?"
"Thats right, Son. The two of you have a decision to make. So go make
it."
"Now?"
"Thats right, Ranma. Now."
Ranma looked at Akane, and she nodded. They filled a couple of bowls
from the table, and took them upstairs to Ranmas room, where they
could eat and talk in (relative) quiet. Soft footsteps told them that
someone was trying to listen in, and they turned on a radio to make it
difficult for the eavesdropper, whoever it was.
At first, they ate quietly, not speaking at all, because they didnt
know where to start. Then Ranma pushed his bowl aside, and looked
toward the window, away from Akane.
"Why are they in such a hurry, Akane? I mean, were only seventeen--we
still have another year of school."
"I dont know, Ranma. Thats just the way they are, I guess. What should
we do?"
Ranma thought for a minute, and Akane watched his expression. It wasnt
encouraging.
"Akane, they must feel theyve backed us into a corner. If we dont get
married, Ill have to go live with Mom and Pop, and they know we dont
want to be separated."
Ranma paused, and then smiled, taking both of Akanes hands.
"To tell you the truth, Im tempted to go along with it. I like the
idea of making you all mine. Permanently."
"I am yours, Ranma. You know that."
Ranma pulled Akane into his lap, and answered her statement with a
kiss.
"Then we tell them yes?"
"I think we should. But there are things we should talk about first."
Nabiki put her ear to the door and strained harder, trying to hear.
The music defeated her, and she walked away, frustrated. Next time,
shed make sure she hid a microphone in the room.
*****
When Ranma walked Akane back downstairs, Kasumi and Nabiki were
nowhere to be seen, but their parents were still sitting at the table.
Nodoka was pouring tea, and poured two more cups when she saw them.
Genma waited until they were seated, and then spoke.
"Well, what do you have to say for yourselves?"
"Were getting married, Pop."
"Good! Now. . "
"Wait a minute, Pop. But not right now. After school ends for the
summer."
Genma looked like he was ready to argue with Ranma, but his wife put
her hand on his arm, and gave him a look that plainly meant "be
quiet".
"What are you trying to say, Ranma?"
"Mr. Tendo has enough to do right now, planning Nabikis graduation
party, and Akane and I are still trying to catch up on what we missed
while we were in China."
Soun had been sitting there, nodding, and he smiled at the pair.
"Thats fine, Ranma. It will give us more time to plan your wedding."
Akane caught her fathers eye, and when he saw her expression, his face
fell.
"No, Daddy. Not again. Ranma and I talked it over, and wed prefer
something small, and quiet."
It took all of their determination to withstand the pressure that was
put upon Ranma and Akane after their parents heard her statement.
After some time, it became obvious to them that the young couple were
united in their decision, and that nothing would make them change
their minds.
*****
Akane got up, and went into the bathroom for some warm water and a
washcloth. She bathed Ranmas face and hands, and sat down again.
"It took us a long time to learn that two of us together were stronger
than being apart, and its a good thing we did, honey, because everyone
gave us such a hard time."
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 7
Doing It Our Way
At first, it seemed as if their families had taken Ranma and Akane
seriously, and were not going to interfere in their plans.
Ranma moved out of his room into a small guest room, so that he and
Akane could redecorate the one he had been using. Kasumi and Nodoka
had looked at their plans, and begun to comment on the color and
style, but one look from Akane had been enough to make them clear
their throats and change the subject.
The elaborate wedding dress that had been chosen for Akane upon her
return from China had been returned, and Kasumi wanted to take Akane
shopping for another, but she had other plans in mind. Taking her
older sisters hand, she led her up to the attic.
"This is what I want to wear, Sis. May I try it on?"
Akane had opened a trunk, and removed her mothers wedding kimono, and
held it up, trying to see if it would fit. Kasumi smiled wistfully,
and brought her sister downstairs to her bedroom.
"Turn around, Akane, and let me look at the back."
Akane obediently turned around, and Kasumi tugged at the kimono, and
then backed away a few steps.
"It looks lovely on you, Akane, but its a little bit long. We can
shorten it, and then it will be perfect."
Kasumi paused, and then sighed.
"Father will cry, you know."
Akane couldnt help giggling.
"Kasumi, Daddy would cry no matter what I was wearing."
Spring break was coming closer, and that meant Nabikis prom was coming
up. Focus shifted from the wedding to the prom, and the graduation
that would follow. Or at least that was what Akane thought. Ranma, for
his part, didnt believe it, and told her that.
"Akane, dont let them fool you. Our parents are up to something."
"What makes you think so, Ranma?"
"Dont be a dummy, Akane. Every time we walk into the room, they stop
talking, and look embarrassed, especially Pop. He couldnt keep a
secret if his life depended on it."
"WHAT did you just call me?"
Ranma backed off a step, and didnt respond, at first. When he did open
his mouth, what came out wasnt very understandable.
"Um, um... um"
"RANMA NO BAKA!!!"
Akane lifted her hand to slap Ranma, and brought herself up short. She
looked at her hand, and then at Ranma, stricken. Their relationship
was far from perfect - they still had their share of arguments - but
shed promised herself to try not to hit him. Akane turned around, and
ran. She flew up to her bedroom, locked the door, and threw herself
onto her bed.
When was she going to learn to control her temper? Akane started to
clench her fists, and found that her hands were shaking. Then,
strangely, she began to laugh. She would probably learn to control her
temper when Ranma stopped making stupid remarks.
*****
Ranma sighed sadly as he watched Akane run out of the room. When was
he going to learn to stop calling Akane names? Maybe when she learned
to listen to what he had to say.
He left the house, and entered the dojo. He and Akane had been drawing
up lesson plans for the summer. They intended to begin teaching as
soon as school let out, and continue until it began again. He sat on
the floor, pencil in his mouth, and read the plans. Soon, the mental
exercise calmed him, and he forgot that he and Akane had been arguing.
*****
Akane calmed herself, and went downstairs. She didnt see Ranma, and
wondered where hed gone. Probably off somewhere to calm down, she
concluded.
Akane went to the living room, and opened a drawer. She wanted to look
at her parents wedding album, to see what kind of flowers and jewelry
her mother had worn with her wedding kimono. There was a file folder
on top of the album, and when Akane lifted it up to get the album,
quite a few papers fell out. Akane took one look, and snatched up the
papers and file, the album quite forgotten. She quickly scanned them,
and went pale. Then she turned red, took the folder, and went looking
for her fiancé.
Ranma heard the dojo door slide open, and lifted his head from his
reading. Akane stood there, looking extremely upset. Ranma braced
himself, wondering what he had done wrong this time.
"Ranma, honey, I . . . I . ."
Ranma was taken aback. Akane rarely used endearments when she spoke to
him. She was obviously having difficulty continuing, and Ranma put his
papers aside and got up. He brought Akane inside, closed the door, and
sat down with her.
"Whats wrong?"
"Im sorry, Ranma. You were right. Here."
Akane handed Ranma the folder, and he began looking through the papers
in it. What he found confirmed his suspicions that their parents were
plotting again.
The folder contained a guest list - a VERY long guest list - for their
wedd ing. Ranma continued reading, and discovered elaborate plans for
a reception, and receipts covering formal wear, formal wear that he
and Akane had told their parents was unnecessary.
Ranma closed his eyes, and counted to ten. It didnt help.
"Ive had it, Akane. Forget it - were not going to do this. Forget the
whole thing."
Akane gasped.
"The whole thing? Were not getting married?"
Ranma dropped the folder, and pulled Akane into his arms. She was
shaking, and close to tears.
"No, thats not what I mean, Akane. Take it easy! Were going to get
married, but were going to do it our way."
"Our way?"
"Yeah. I was beginning to wonder if wed made a bad decision, anyway.
Every time Kuno looks at your ring, I think hes going to attack me. I
hear his sister has been threatening you again, and Shampoo and Ukyo
have been a little bit TOO quiet. I think wed be much better off
eloping. Do you want to?"
Akane was too stunned to think. She sat there in Ranmas arms, her head
on his chest. She could feel his heart pounding, as hers was. His idea
was tempting, very tempting. To be Ranmas wife, to be able to stand
with him as a team, no one being able to try to control their lives .
. .
Akane looked up at Ranma, and smiled.
"I want to."
Ranma and Akane drew up their plans quickly. They had to have
everything arranged before prom night. Everyone would be too busy
getting Nabiki ready to go to notice what they were up to.
*****
Ranma and Akane returned home from school, took off their shoes, and
started for the stairs. They were nearly finished putting their room
together, completing it ahead of schedule. Akane was halfway up the
stairs when she heard her sisters voice.
"Akane, would you stop in the kitchen for a moment, please?"
"Yes, Kasumi?"
Kasumi beckoned to Akane, and waved Ranma away. He looked puzzled, and
continued up the stairs. Akane followed Kasumi into the kitchen, and
found her sisters expression rather strange.
"Akane, you had a phone call today while you were at school. It was
from Dr. Tanakas office, reminding you of an appointment tomorrow
afternoon."
Akane flushed. Dr. Tanaka was her gynecologist.
"Is there something you need to tell me, Akane?"
"No, Kasumi. Its just a checkup, and some planning for birth control."
Kasumi looked surprised.
"Father wont approve."
Akane could feel herself losing her temper.
"Kasumi! This is none of Daddys business!"
"Akane, you know he wants grandchildren. How are you going to explain
this to him?"
Akane s voice got higher, and louder.
"I dont have to explain anything to him! Ranma and I are NOT starting
a family until we graduate! How could I take care of a baby and go to
school?"
Kasumi got that wistful look in her eyes again.
"I could take care of it for you, Akane. I wouldnt mind."
Akane closed her eyes in frustration.
"No, Kasumi. My baby wouldnt know if you were its mother, or I was.
Sis, I love you, but please stop interfering."
Before Kasumi could respond, Akane left the room, and went upstairs.
Ranma had already unpacked the bed theyd ordered, and was putting it
together. Akane knelt down next to him, and took the screwdriver out
of his hands. She put her arms around him, and held him tightly.
"Ranma, tell me we can make it through these last weeks."
Ranma held Akane, gently stroking her hair. Things had been relatively
quiet since his parents had moved out the previous week, and hed
thought that they would finally have some peace.
"Why, Akane? What happened?"
Akane recounted her conversation with Kasumi, and felt Ranma go rigid.
She knew that he was furious, and was surprised when he answered in a
relatively calm tone.
"Well make it, Akane. Once were married, well be free to live our
lives the way we want to."
*****
"Akane! Akane, come here!"
Akane zipped up her dress, and ran into Nabikis room. Nabiki was
holding two pairs of earrings out.
"Which ones do I wear, Akane? Help me!"
"Sis, I told you last night which ones, remember?"
Akane took the earrings she preferred, and turned her sister to the
mirror.
"Look. These match the color of your gown perfectly. Now would you
calm down? The prom isnt until tonight, and youll be a wreck if you
keep up this way."
Nabiki nodded, and sat on the bed.
"Okay, Akane, Ill try. Say, isnt that a new dress?"
Akane tried not to look self-conscious.
"Yes, Im going out with Ranma for a couple of hours. We have some
things to do."
"You cant! You have to help me get ready."
Akane sighed in exasperation.
"Well be back in plenty of time, Nabiki. Now stop worrying."
Ranma appeared in the doorway.
"Are you ready to go, Akane?"
Akane smiled, and held out her hand.
"Yes, Im ready."
*****
In the end, although theyd arrived on time, they had to wait. There
were several couples ahead of them, and Ranma found himself getting
more nervous by the minute as he waited, holding Akanes hand. They had
come to this office a few weeks earlier, to fill out the paperwork
that was necessary and to make arrangements to formally register their
marriage. Suddenly, Ranma realized that Akanes hand was shaking. She
was nervous too. A clerk came out of an office, motioned to them, and
they followed him.
Ten minutes later, they emerged, husband and wife. It had been a very
brief ceremony, so brief that they had difficulty at first believing
that it was valid. Only when Ranma had been told that he could kiss
his bride, and he had done so, had the reality of it struck them.
They got into the elevator, and closed the doors before anyone could
join them. Ranma kissed Akane again, and held out his hand. Akane
looked sad for a moment, removed her wedding ring, and handed it to
Ranma. Ranma removed his own ring, and placed them back in the box.
"Well get to wear them later, Akane. For now, this is our secret."
Ranma took Akane to lunch, where they held hands, and smiled at each
other, and were so oblivious to what they were eating that they
couldnt have told anyone what it had been.
The phone rang at the Tendo dojo. Kasumi picked it up, and exclaimed
in surprise.
"I havent talked to you in a long time! How are you?"
The voice on the other end went on for some time. Kasumi turned a
little pale, and leaned on the wall. Then she thanked the caller, and
hung up.
*****
Kasumi and Akane walked behind their sister as she came downstairs to
meet her date. They managed to keep from laughing when he stared at
her, overwhelmed. If he had only seen how much trouble getting her
ready had been.
The door closed behind Nabiki, and Kasumi sighed with relief.
"Thank goodness shes gone. Now I can make dinner."
Akane followed her sister into the kitchen.
"Can I help?"
Kasumi turned around, a strange look in her eyes.
"Akane, not today. Today you should be with your husband, not me."
Akane clutched the counter.
"Kasumi?"
"You didnt recognize Kenji - the clerk - this morning."
Akane shook her head.
"You probably dont remember him, then. We went to high school
together. He recognized the name Tendo, and phoned me to offer his
best wishes. You can imagine how I felt."
"Sis, Im sorry."
"No, Akane. Dont apologize. I understand why you and Ranma have taken
matters into your own hands, and Ill support you. How long do you
intend to keep this a secret?"
"Were leaving early tomorrow morning, Kasumi. Ranma and I are going
camping for a few days. Well leave Daddy and his parents a letter; its
already written."
"I could tell them for you, if you like."
Akane considered this for a moment, and then smiled.
"No, Kasumi. Theyre going to be angry enough at us. I dont want them
to be angry at you."
Ranma stuck his head in the kitchen door, and smiled.
"Akane! Ive been looking all over the house for you."
He entered the kitchen, and was stopped before he could reach Akane by
Kasumi, who hugged him, and kissed his cheek.
"Congratulations, brother. Welcome to the family."
Ranma froze for a second, and then hugged Kasumi. He looked at Akane,
his eyebrows raised.
"You told her?"
Akane laughed.
"No, Ranma. Kasumi has her own ways of finding things out. She wont
tell."
Kasumi patted Ranmas cheek, causing him to turn red with
embarrassment. She then shooed them out of the kitchen.
"Get out, you two. I have work to do."
Kasumi turned out a feast for them that evening. She had even taken
the time to bake a small cake, which she placed in front of Akane.
"Would you serve this, dear, while I pour the tea? Give Ranma the
first piece."
Akane gave her sister a grateful look, and served Ranma his wedding
cake. Soun was too busy accepting a cup of tea from his daughter to
notice when Ranma broke off a piece, and fed it to Akane, while she
did the same for him.
*****
The family sat in front of the television, watching a video. Kasumi
left the room for a minute, and came back with a bowl of popcorn.
"The bath water is hot, Akane, if you want it."
While Akane bathed, Ranma shared the popcorn with Soun, who kept
nodding off. Soun had always claimed that this particular movie was
his favorite, but he never stayed awake long enough to finish watching
it.
Soon, Akane returned to the living room, and sat down. Ranma looked at
her, amused to see that she was wearing her old faded pajamas with the
pattern of cats and suns. He excused himself, and went to take his
bath. When he returned, Soun was alone, and nearly asleep. Ranma left
him in the living room, and went upstairs.
Ranma slid open the door to his and Akanes room. Akane was standing in
front of the mirror, brushing her hair, and she turned to him with a
welcoming smile. She was no longer wearing the pajamas, but instead
wore a lace-trimmed yellow nightgown that took his breath away. Ranma
took the brush out of Akanes hands, put it on the bureau, and held her
at arms length, looking at her. He ran one finger down Akanes cheek,
and drew her close for a kiss. Then Ranma retrieved the box with their
wedding rings, and this time they put them on to stay.
*****
A short time later, Nabiki returned home from her prom. Soun heard her
walk in, and sat up.
"Were you waiting up for me, Daddy? Thank you."
"Did you have a good time, dear?"
"A wonderful one, Daddy."
Soun stood up, and kissed his daughter good night. He watched her go
up the stairs, and then went to bed.
Nabiki was walking down the hallway when she thought she heard soft
voices, and stopped. She looked in the direction of what would be
Ranma and Akanes room. There was a light on, and as she stood there,
dumbfounded, the light went off, and she heard a giggle.
Nabiki smiled as she got ready for bed. Perhaps some profit could be
made of this.
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 8
A Very Short Honeymoon
"We were lucky to get away the next morning, honey. Remember how fast
we had to leave the house?"
*****
The sun was just coming up when Ranma opened his eyes. Akane was
curled up next to him, one hand resting on his chest.
Theyd planned to leave the house before anyone woke up, but Ranma
hesitated, not wanting to wake Akane just yet. As lovely as shed
looked in the yellow nightgown last night, the sight of Akane sleeping
in his pajama top affected Ranma even more, but in a different way. It
was evidence to him that Akane was now a permanent part of his life.
"Five more minutes wont make a difference."
With that thought, Ranma closed his eyes, and unintentionally went
back to sleep.
Across town, Nodoka Saotome opened her eyes, to see her husband
dressing.
"Where are you going, Genma?"
"To get Ranma. He has the week off from school, and I want to take him
on a training trip."
Nodoka sat up.
"You didnt mention this to me before. Does Ranma know?"
Genma looked a little embarrassed.
"No. Actually, I decided last night. Ranma will be married in a few
weeks, and this will be the last time well have a chance to go off
together. Besides the training, Id like to talk to him a bit about
marriage. The boy should hear my advice."
Nodoka closed her mouth tightly, trying to control her laughter. She
shook with the effort, and a small giggle escaped her.
"Whats so funny?"
Nodoka bit back the urge to ask Genma what kind of marital advice he
had to offer, and instead got out of bed.
"Nothing, dear. Ill make breakfast - you finish packing."
*****
Akane heard Ranma gasp, and opened her eyes. He shot into a sitting
position, looking at the clock.
"Akane, we have about half an hour to make the train."
Akane flew out of the bed, and across the room to the bureau. Seconds
later she reversed direction, and jumped into Ranmas arms. She kissed
him thoroughly, and pulled away again, rather reluctantly.
"I forgot to say good morning."
Ranma grinned as they dressed. He hoped that Akane would say good
morning to him that way for the rest of his life.
*****
Kasumi was dressing when she heard Akanes footsteps going back and
forth to the bathroom. She wasnt sure if there would be time for Ranma
and Akane to have breakfast, so she hurried downstairs to get it
started.
Ranma put on his backpack, a nd crossed the hall to Akanes room, where
she had hers waiting, when he heard Kasumi talking downstairs. Her
usually quiet voice was raised, as if she wanted them to overhear.
"Mr. Saotome, how nice to see you! What are you doing here so early?
Would you like some breakfast?"
"Im here for Ranma. Were going on a training trip."
Ranma and Akane exchanged incredulous looks. They could hear Ranmas
father attempting to go upstairs, and Kasumi stalling him with small
talk, and knew they had seconds to move.
Ranma opened the window, while Akane put the letter theyd written on
her bed. He climbed down, and caught the backpacks, his shoes and
their tent as Akane threw them down. Then Akane closed her window,
picked up her own shoes, and took a deep breath.
Genma had his foot on the first step when Akane came running down,
practically knocking him down in her haste to get past him.
"Good morning, Uncle Saotome! Im sorry, Im going to be SO late!!"
Akane never slowed down, but instead dashed to the closet, removed her
coat (and Ranmas, hoping no one would notice), put on her shoes, and
ran out the door. Ranma was waiting for her around the corner.
*****
They camped out in the mountains, a remote area Ranma had gone to with
his father some years previously. The earliest wildflowers were just
coming out, and the stars were clear and bright at night. No one
disturbed their solitude, at least until their last evening there.
Akane sat by the fire, keeping an eye on dinner. She and Ranma had
brought nothing but canned and freeze-dried food, but it was still
possible to burn it. She heard footsteps, and tensed. They were not
coming from the direction Ranma had gone off in.
"Whos there?"
"Akane?"
"Ryoga!"
Ryoga stood at the edge of the firelight, afraid to come closer.
Finally, he made an effort, came forward to sit by Akane, and looked
around, confused.
"Akane, what are you doing way out here by yourself?"
"Im not by myself, Ryoga. Ranma is with me. He went to get water."
Ryogas look hardened.
"The two of you are alone together? Akane, Im surprised at you."
Akane stiffened. Shed been gentle with Ryoga when shed revealed to him
that she knew about his curse. Ryoga was fortunate that hed been away
when shed figured out it, because at the time Akane was so furious
that if Ryoga had been nearby his life would have been in danger. Now
Ryogas thoughtless remark had brought all of her fury back.
"How dare you of all people judge my morals, Ryoga! You, who deceived
me, and slept with me? For your information, although its none of your
business, we happen to be on our honeymoon!"
Akane had risen as she spoke, clenching both fists. Ryoga cringed
before her. Finally, he got up, murmured something unintelligible, and
ran off into the darkness. Akane watched him disappear, and then sat
down, weeping uncontrollably. She was still in tears when Ranma
returned with the water. He took one look at Akane, put down the pail
and lantern, and gathered her into his lap.
"Whats wrong, Akane? Did you burn dinner?"
Akane gasped, and reached for the pans, but Ranma took them off the
fire for her. Akane was still sobbing, unable to speak, and Ranma
waited patiently for her to calm down.
"R - Ryoga was here."
"Ryoga? What a place to get lost! What happened?"
Slowly, Akane told Ranma what had happened. After she was done, she
buried her face in his shoulder and held on tight, shaking. Ranma
patted her back.
"You feel guilty, Akane, dont you?"
Akane sat up, and sniffled.
"Yes. I think I was too hard on him."
Ranma wiped away his wifes tears, and kissed her cheek.
"No, Akane. Ryoga needed to hear what you had to say. He never
listened to me. I dont think well be seeing him for a while."
*****
Akane sighed, and squeezed Ranmas hand.
"You were right, Ranma. Ryogas been avoiding us ever since. Every time
he sees either of us, he turns around and walks the other way. Its
been a year and a half, and he still wont talk to me."
"I wonder, Ranma, why Ryoga broke up with Akari after that. When you
get better, maybe you should go look for him. . . . but where was I?
Oh yes, what happened after we got back home. . ."
*****
After they broke camp the next morning, Ranma and Akane followed
Ryogas footsteps for a while, but they got tired of walking in
circles, and instead hiked back to the train station. As they got
closer to Nerima, Akane found herself getting rather tense.
"Akane, whats the matter?"
"What?"
Ranma pointed at Akanes hands.
"Why the fists? Are you expecting a fight?"
Akane flushed.
"I dont know what to expect when we get home, Ranma."
Ranma nodded, and hugged Akane.
"Neither do I. But Akane, you jumped into a dragons mouth for me - do
you find our folks scarier than that?"
"Ranma, all the dragon wanted was lunch. Our families want control. I
think that scares me more."
"Then let me handle it, Akane."
"But Ranma, I thought we were a team!"
"We are, Akane. Ill do the talking this time, but you be sure to make
it clear that you agree with me."
Ranma watched Akane shake, and raised his eyebrows.
"Whats so funny?"
"I cant wait to see their faces when I side with you."
Passengers all over the car craned their necks to watch Ranma laugh.
*****
Half an hour later, Ranma was no longer laughing. He and Akane stood
side by side, facing their parents. Kasumi and Nabiki stood to the
side, watching.
Nabiki now knew for a certainty that she would no longer be looking at
Ranma as a source of income. Shed suspected that when she learned that
he had married her sister, and at the time had been torn between
regret (after all, the extra cash was always welcome) and happiness
for them. Now she awaited the end of this foolish argument.
Genma had been going on and on about Ranma "spoiling the plans that
were made", and had finally stopped for air. Ranma immediately jumped
in.
"Enough! Are you people never satisfied? Youve been after us to get
married forever. We are. Be happy. End of subject!"
Ranma grabbed his wifes hand, and picked up his bag.
"Lets go unpack, Akane."
Akane picked up her things, and began to follow Ranma toward the
stairs, when she heard a voice behind her.
"Akane."
Akane turned to look at her father.
"Yes, Daddy?"
"How could you break your fathers heart like this, by letting Ranma
talk you into missing your beautiful wedding?"
"Ranma didnt talk me into anything, Daddy. We made this decision
together."
"Akane! How could you turn against your father like this!"
"I havent turned against you, Daddy. I love you. But I stand with my
husband."
Akane turned without another word and followed Ranma upstairs.
Ranmas parents and Akanes father started to talk at once, denouncing
the defiant actions of their children, when Kasumi, who hadnt spoken a
word once shed welcomed the newlyweds home, cleared her throat.
"Excuse me?"
No one heard Kasumi, and she raised her voice, something they were not
accustomed to.
"EXCUSE ME!"
All heads turned to Kasumi, shocked to see a frown on her normally
serene face.
"Take my advice please, and stop. Youve won, havent you? Now let them
alone."
BREAKING FREE
Chapter 9
Challenges and Hurdles
The dojo was crowded and noisy. People gathered in groups around the
edges of the room, watching the couples dancing in the center of the
floor.
Ranma held Akane close as he danced with her, feeling uncomfortable
with all the eyes upon them. The only consolation he could take was
that this was a reception, not a wedding, and no one could change the
fact that he and Akane were already married.
Akanes father and his parents had hurriedly arranged a party for them,
saying that he and Akane had "cheated them out of a wedding". Since
theyd had the common sense not to invite any of the people who had
caused such trouble last time, Ranma and Akane hadnt objected.
When the music ended, Akane hugged Ranma, and kissed his cheek.
"I cant believe it, Ranma. We actually managed to have a party with no
one attacking us."
Ranmas smile was less enthusiastic than Akane expected.
"Yeah, Akane. But thats because were not out in the real world yet."
*****
Ukyo closed up her restaurant, and went for a walk in the moonlight.
Shed heard through the grapevine of the party at the dojo. It hadnt
been a surprise that she wasnt invited.
Ukyos walk led her past the Nekohanten, which was still dark and
locked up. Shortly after the original wedding fiasco, Cologne had
closed down the restaurant "for renovations", and disappeared, with
Shampoo and Mousse. Some workmen had been seen going in and out, but
Ukyo wondered if the place would ever reopen.
*****
The alarm clock rang, and Ranma groaned as he reached to turn it off.
Akane lifted her head from her pillow, and squinted at the sun.
"Morning already? Ugh."
Ranma turned over, and gathered Akane into his arms.
"We could just stay here, and forget about school."
"Dont tempt me."
*****
The couple turned onto the path beside the canal, and raced down it.
"I cant believe Nabiki left before us, Ranma. Why did she want to get
to school early?"
"Shes either up to something, Akane, or she wanted to get inside
before the crowd at the gate got too big."
A figure stepped out of the shadows in front of them, blocking their
path. She had her spatula strapped to her back, but was not wearing
her uniform. Ranma and Akane stopped where they were.
"Ranma, I came to stay good bye."
"Good bye?"
"Im going home."
Ranma was too stunned to speak. When he finally opened his mouth, Ukyo
held up her hand.
"Dont bother saying anything, Ran-chan. Ive lost, and Im not going to
hang around and let it hurt me any more."
Before Ranma could respond, Ukyo was gone.
Ranma looked at Akane, stricken.
"I never wanted to hurt her like that, Akane."
Akane lost her temper.
"Then you should have told her a long time ago that you didnt love
her, instead of letting her chase after you all this time!"
"I never!"
"Yes you did!"
Ranma opened his mouth to shout at Akane again, and abruptly closed
it. Akane was standing the way hed seen her hundreds of times, fists
clenched, arms rigid. For all he knew, her famous mallet would come
crashing down upon him any second. This was not what he wanted.
"Youre right, Akane. But I couldnt just dump Ukyo like that."
Akanes expression softened, and she put her hand on Ranmas arm.
"I know, Ranma. You may put on that tough guy act, but I can see
through it."
Ranma smiled, a little sadly, and looked back the way Ukyo had gone.
"Do you think shell be all right?"
"I dont know, Ranma. I hope so."
*****
Groups of students stood at the gates, talking. It was evident to
Ranma that they were waiting for him and Akane.
"First hurdle, Akane. Ready?"
"Ready."
The first hurdle wasnt too bad. There were shouts of laughter, some
gentle teasing, shaking of hands, and lots of hugs for Akane from her
friends. The only remark that Ranma took exception to was from one of
the seniors, who walked straight up to Akane.
"May I kiss the bride?"
It look a long time for the young man to disentangle himself from the
branches of the tree Ranma kicked him into.
Then the crowd parted, and Akane whispered to Ranma.
"Second hurdle, honey."
Ranma grinned. It was the first time Akane had called him "honey" in
public, and he understood immediately that she was trying to encourage
him. Ranma figured that the gesture should be returned, and whispered
back.
"Right, sweetheart."
The fact that he accompanied the whisper with kiss on the cheek got a
reaction from the person the crowd had parted for.
"How dare you kiss Akane like that! You scoundrel!"
"I dont need your permission to kiss my wife, Kuno."
"W - w - w - WIFE????"
Kuno staggered, and leaned against the wall for support.
"Its not possible. I dont believe it."
Akane nodded.
"Believe it, Kuno."
Kuno looked weakly from Akane to Ranma, and back again to Akane. Akane
returned his gaze without blinking, and he noted the way her hand was
nestled in Ranmas. Then he saw her turn to her husband, smiling at him
with adoration. It was that smile more than anything else that told
him it was time to give up. Of course, Kuno being Kuno, he had an
alternative to Akane.
"Then the pigtailed girl is mine! Saotome has made his choice. I will
find her, and declare my undying love!"
Kuno dashed off the school property, running right through several
latecomers. When the dust had settled, everyone started walking into
the school, and the Saotomes listened with amusement to some of the
remarks.
"Youd think by now that the idiot would know who the pigtailed girl
was. Shouldnt somebody tell him?"
"Nah, its too much fun watching him make a fool out of himself. Leave
it be."
*****
Ranma and Akane found themselves the main topic of interest at school
for a few days, but eventually other things distracted the students
(such as the Chem Club blowing up the lab, with Principal Kuno in it),
and things went back to normal.
Ranma had walked past Ucchans several times, but had not spoken to
Ukyo. The place was locked up, and there was a large "For Sale" sign
on the door. Hed looked inside, and seen her packing, but shed refused
to respond to his raps on the window.
*****
Ukyo smiled. The "For Sale" sign had been replaced with one that read
"Sold", and she was ready to go home. A rap on the window distracted
her from her thoughts. She was going to ignore it, thinking it was
Ranma, when she realized that the pattern of rapping was different,
and looked up. A lovely purple-haired girl stood at the window.
Ukyo unlocked the door, and let Shampoo in.
"Hello, spatula girl. Am back. Why you sell restaurant?"
"Im going home, Shampoo."
"You give up, then? Let Shampoo keep husband?"
Ukyos face fell. Obviously, she was going to have to be the one to
break the news.
"Hes not your husband, Shampoo."
Shampoo was indignant.
"How can you say so? Amazon law say Ranma Shampoos husband!"
"Shampoo, Ranma is Akanes husband. They got married last month."
Shampoo turned so fast that she knocked Ukyo into the wall. The door
slammed as she left the restaurant, and Ukyo was grateful that it
hadnt broken.
*****
Akane sat on the steps outside the school, waiting for Ranma. In a few
weeks, their lives would change again. Nabiki was graduating, and
would soon move away and go to college. She and Ranma would begin to
teach together for the first time.
And Akane was going to learn to be a wife. A real wife. For now, she
was a student, going to school, and coming home to take care of
homework. Kasumi was still taking care of everything in the house, and
Akane wanted to take care of her husband herself. That included
cooking for him, which scared her to death.
Ranma had expressed intentions along the same lines. They way hed put
it was that he felt like they were almost "pretending to be married".
Akane thought about the talk theyd had the previous night.
"I know I wont be taking over for another year, Akane, but your Dad
has to let me learn what I have to do. Every time I try to talk to him
about anything serious, he just tells me to run along and hell take
care of it. Maybe hell take us more seriously when we start teaching."
Akanes thoughts were interrupted when a shadow fell across her,
blocking out the sunshine. When she looked up to see who was there,
Akane immediately jumped to her feet.
"You steal Shampoos husband."
"No, Shampoo. Ranma chose me. And I chose him."
Akane heard the door open behind her. Though she could not see who was
there, she sensed that it was Ranma.
Ranma stepped outside, and stopped short when he saw Shampoo standing
before Akane. His first instinct was to step between them, but he knew
that Akane would take that as an indication that he didnt think her
capable of taking care of herself. He had to fight the desire to
interfere with all of his might when he heard Shampoos next words,
which were spoken very, very quietly.
"Then you die."
Akanes answer was just as quiet, and full of menace.
"You can try, but I wouldnt advise it."
Shampoo laughed, and reached for Akanes throat. Akanes hands moved
faster than Ranma had ever seen before, and caught Shampoos wrists.
Shampoo gasped. Akanes laugh held no humor.
"Did you really think I would just stand here and LET you kill me? Im
a martial artist too, Shampoo, and every bit as strong as you are."
To demonstrate, Akane squeezed, and Shampoo cried out in distress. She
wrenched one hand free, and slapped Akanes face, hard.
Ranma reached out to stop Shampoo, but Akane had already violently
twisted the one hand she still held. Ranma heard a crunch, and Shampoo
went white, and fell to her knees. Ranma quickly grabbed Akanes arms,
to prevent her from going any further.
Akane ignored her husband, and looked down at Shampoo, who was
cradling her arm, looking defeated. Then Shampoos pride asserted
herself, and she stood, the arm dangling at her side.
"Shampoo can still fight you."
Akane examined her opponent. Shampoo was very pale, and her face was
covered with a thin layer of moisture. It was obvious that she was in
great pain, and fighting to keep it from overwhelming her. Akane
couldnt help but admire her courage.
"No, Shampoo. Go home. Go home, and tell Cologne that its over."
The tears started to slide down Shampoos face.
"No! Will never be over until Ranma Shampoos husband!"
Ranmas voice made them both pause.
"Shampoo, give it up already. I dont love you, and I would never marry
you, even if Akane didnt exist. You know that I dont hit women, but I
will make an exception. If you ever touch Akane again - either you or
Cologne - you will be dead. Stay away from us."
Ranma turned his back on Shampoo, and walked Akane down the steps.
"Did you have to break her arm, Akane?"
"I didnt mean to, Ranma. I must be stronger than I thought."
Ranma thought about all the times Akane had clobbered him.
"You are."
A muffled sob behind them made them turn around. Shampoo had sunk back
down to the pavement. She looked like she was going to collapse, and
they quickly returned to her. Akane reached down, and offered Shampoo
her hand.
"You need to get to a doctor, Shampoo. Let us help you."
Shampoo just stared at Akanes hand, and made no move to take it.
"Akane, I think shes going into shock. Lets go!"
Ranma lifted Shampoo into his arms, being careful not to touch her
arm, and began to run.
*****
Dr. Tofu heard his door open, came out of his inner office, and nearly
walked right into Ranma. He took one look at Shampoo and opened the
door to an examining room, where Ranma put her on the table.
"May I use your phone? We need to call Cologne."
"Go right ahead, Ranma."
Ranma was hanging up the phone when he heard a tremendous crash in the
next room. He and Akane flew through the door to see the doctor
picking himself off the floor.
"What happened?"
"I was trying to set her arm, and she hit me. Please hold her down."
Even with both Ranma and Akane holding Shampoo down, setting her arm
was not an easy job for Dr. Tofu. Shampoo was not herself, and
struggled violently, cursing loudly in Chinese. Once the bone was in
its proper position and Dr. Tofu started to apply the cast, she calmed
down, and let him work. Ranma and Akane left them alone, and returned
to the outer room to wait for Cologne.
Five minutes later, Cologne and Mousse ran in. Ranma silently pointed
to the next room, and they entered. Shortly afterward, Cologne
returned.
"Shampoo wont talk to me. Who did this to her?"
Akane flushed.
"I did."
"WHAT!!"
Cologne raised her staff to strike Akane, and Ranma got in the way.
"Dont you dare!"
"Get out of my way, son-in-law. Amazon law requires that this one must
die."
"I dont give a damn about your Amazon law, Cologne! If you harm a hair
on my wifes head, Ill kill you. Shampoos arm is broken because Akane
was defending herself. Shampoo tried to kill her."
Cologne stopped dead. Only one word had penetrated her rage, and she
repeated it.
"Wife?"
"Wife. Youd better find Shampoo another husband."
Cologne stood there, silent, crushed by her defeat. She had always
been perfectly confident that one day Shampoo and Ranma would marry,
and these two teenagers had gotten the better of her. Her age must be
catching up with her. Cologne turned around, and started walking back
to the treatment room. She started to close the door, and stopped to
look at Ranma once more.
"Good bye, son-in . . . Ranma."
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