Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The pressure in the room was mounting, and Ranma felt discomfort taking hold of her. Part of her wanted to escape, but at that moment, Nabiki wouldn't stop pressing.

"So, Ranma," Nabiki began, with an even more mocking smile. "Your closet... have you really been increasing your clothing collection? And it's not like you're going to model on a runway, huh?"

Ranma looked away, knowing she couldn't keep avoiding this topic. Damn it! She thought. Another month, the curse is blocked again. What did I do to deserve this? She was feeling that annoying discomfort that came with menstruation, and the worst part was that now she had to do it while thinking that, for some reason, a man had to endure this.

This isn't fair! She thought, as her stomach churned. How the hell is a man supposed to put up with this? If only I could be a man again, everything would be easier...

But the truth was that at that moment, she was there, in her female body, feeling the discomfort of a reality she didn't want to face. I don't want to be a woman. I'm not a woman. I'm not. I'm a man!

With those words repeating in her head, she tried to clear her mind. However, Nabiki's accusations pulled her out of her trance.

"Sure, sure..." Nabiki raised an eyebrow, looking Ranma up and down. "The same coincidence that your curse gets 'blocked' the last week of every month, right?"

Ranma felt everyone's eyes on her. Damn it, Nabiki! How can she know? She gritted her teeth as she felt her face turning red. This is getting out of control. If I stay here, they're going to find out. In her mind, a quick response tried to come out of her mouth. "It's... it's a mistake! It's not what it looks like!" she exclaimed quickly, feeling that lying was the only thing that could save her at that moment.

"A mistake?" Nabiki replied, the mocking smile still on her face. "Tell me about it, Ranma! A mistake that your curse gets blocked every month, huh?"

Ranma tried to make a quick move, but in her haste, something fell out of her jacket pocket. A small, rectangular box slid to the ground with a thud. No one noticed it immediately, but when the box stopped in front of Nabiki, she looked at it curiously.

"What's this?" Nabiki said, picking up the box of painkillers with an intriguing smile. "Hmmm, this is interesting... Why do you have a package of painkillers here, Ranma? Does something hurt?"

Ranma was petrified. No, it can't be! How did I not see it? The painkillers. Such a small detail, but so revealing. A clear sign of what she was trying to hide. That package didn't lie. It was a sign that her body, although she tried to deny it, was changing, and with it, her life was too. Damn curse! Why does it have to be so damn confusing?

Nabiki's eyes gleamed with excitement as she held up the box. "Does something hurt, Ranma? Are you feeling unwell?"

The room fell silent. Akane frowned, confused, while Soun, oblivious to everything, showed concern. But Ranma, with her face as red as a tomato, tried to remain calm.

"It's... it's a mistake! It's not what it looks like!" she exclaimed, her voice trembling. She wanted to disappear from that place. This is too much!

Just when the situation seemed to be getting out of control, Kasumi intervened with her usual calm. She gently approached Ranma and put a hand on her shoulder.

"Oh, Ranma, come with me, I need you to help me with something," Kasumi said with a calm smile, her tone as gentle as ever.

Ranma looked at her with a mixture of relief and gratitude. Somehow, Kasumi always seemed to know how to calm the storm. Kasumi addressed the others at the table, showing no sign of the tension that filled the room.

"Nabiki, Akane," Kasumi said with a serenity that everyone, even Nabiki, respected, "how about you help me prepare the tea? We all want tea, right?"

Nabiki, surprised by Kasumi's intervention, was silent, as if she was thinking about what she had just heard. Akane, although still confused, nodded slowly, not really understanding the reason for Kasumi's intervention.

Ranma took advantage of the moment to escape. "Yes... I'll help Kasumi with that," she said quickly, wanting to get out of that awkward conversation as soon as possible. Kasumi, as always, was saving her from the abyss, and at this moment, she was more grateful than ever.

Ranma walked away from the dining room as quickly as she could, almost stumbling from the anxiety of leaving the place. Kasumi followed her calmly, as if everything was perfectly fine, until they reached a corner of the garden.

"Ranma," Kasumi said softly, holding the teacup in her hands. "We can talk for a moment. I'm worried about you."

Ranma looked at her, surprised by Kasumi's serious tone. She didn't expect her (hopefully true) sister, always so calm and understanding, to so openly call her out to talk about what had happened.

"Kasumi... I... I don't know what to do," Ranma said, looking at the ground while trying to hide her discomfort. "It's just that... all this is making me tired. I don't know how to handle it. It's like a lot of things piling up on me, and... and I don't understand why I have to keep going through this."

Kasumi watched her patiently, waiting for Ranma to continue.

"And you know... it's not easy to always be the center of attention. There are days when all this overwhelms me," Ranma said, waving a hand in the air as if she wanted to get rid of her own thoughts. "But well, I guess it's nothing. I just feel weird, you know? Like everything is out of place. Like I have no control over anything."

Kasumi said nothing, letting Ranma continue, although she knew that her younger brother was avoiding what he really wanted to say.

"It's just... there are days when I feel one way, and others when I don't even know what I'm thinking. And now all this..." Ranma took a deep breath, looking up at the sky. "Sometimes I just want to take a break from everything. But I know that's not going to happen."

Kasumi looked at her gently. "Ranma, I understand that this isn't easy, but you can't keep ignoring what you feel. If you keep trying to avoid it, you'll only hurt yourself more."

Ranma grimaced, clearly uncomfortable. "It's not that I'm avoiding it. It's just that I don't want to give more importance to something that I don't even know if it's worth it." She ran a hand through her hair nervously. "It's just... I have a lot of things on my mind, and this whole curse thing, and then that... well, you know, sometimes I just want to forget about everything for a while."

Kasumi continued with her calm gaze. "Ranma, you don't have to have all the answers now. But being honest with yourself is the first step. Don't force yourself to have everything figured out right away."

Ranma sighed and scratched the back of her neck. "I know, Kasumi. But it's so frustrating, you understand? Everyone expects me to be something that I don't even know how to be. I just want... I want everything to go back to normal. But it seems like I can never achieve it. There's always something in the way. And I don't know how to handle it."

Kasumi, seeing Ranma's internal struggle, smiled gently. "It's okay, Ranma. I just want you to know that you're not alone in this. If you ever need to talk, I'll be here to listen."

Ranma looked into her eyes, grateful for her understanding, although still lost in her thoughts. "Thanks, Kasumi. I really... I don't know what I would do without you," she murmured, with a slight smile.

Kasumi returned the smile with tenderness, knowing that, although Ranma didn't say it openly, little by little she would begin to face her own feelings. Meanwhile, she would be there to support her, as always.

The next day, the sun barely began to peek through Ranma's bedroom window. The fresh morning air came in through the cracks, but it didn't manage to calm the irritation that ran through the young woman's body. As always, her father Genma was outside her bed, preparing for "his morning training." Ranma had already heard him pacing outside the door, preparing for his usual "wake-up" routine.

"Come on, Ranma! Get up! Let's train!" Genma's voice resonated loudly, full of energy.

Ranma, with her eyes half-closed, gave a deathly stare towards the door. The tiredness from the night before still weighed on her body, and she wasn't in the mood for games. The door slammed just before Genma came in to push the bed with his usual force.

"Time to train, Ranma! No time to sleep!"

The blow was strong enough to destabilize the bed and almost make it fall to the ground. Ranma, now fully awake, sat up with an expression that reflected more irritation than surprise. This time she wasn't going to give in.

"What's wrong with you, old man?! I don't feel like it today!" she shouted, pushing Genma back as she got up quickly.

"Hey, I'm your father! Training is essential!" Genma insisted, but Ranma looked at him firmly, ignoring her father's typical speeches.

"It's not the time, pops. I'm tired of it being the same every day. Leave me alone for today." She gave him a challenging look as she pushed her father out of the room.

Genma, surprised by Ranma's resistance, stood in the doorway, staring blankly before leaving with an annoyed expression, muttering something about "discipline."

Ranma sighed in relief, closing the door behind her. The day had begun with the typical tension, but now she could have a few minutes to herself. She quickly went to the corner of the room where she kept a secret compartment in the wall, one that only she knew existed. She opened the small hatch stealthily, revealing a carefully hidden compartment.

She took out a couple of sanitary pads and a small package of painkillers, putting them in a bag along with the rest of her things. She knew that, without Kasumi's help, she would have to go out and buy them, which put her in an even more awkward situation. Kasumi was always the one who discreetly brought her everything she needed, without asking questions. Ranma allowed herself to smile slightly when she thought of Kasumi, who had become a figure of trust since she arrived. Without her, things would be much more difficult.

With a sigh, Ranma looked inside another drawer and took out a piece of women's underwear, something she had never dared to admit that she found too comfortable to ignore. It was hard to accept, but she couldn't help it. The garments were soft, comfortable... much more than she ever thought they would be.

"Damn it... If only the world didn't make such a fuss every time I wear these things, I would wear them a lot more often," she murmured, as she put on the underwear and began to organize the rest of her outfit. It was a fleeting thought, but she couldn't help it: her body, in its female form, really felt more in harmony with that type of clothing, even if she hated to admit it.

For a moment, she stood staring at the mirror, thinking about how easy it would be to simply accept how she felt, but her father's voice, the expectations, and the constant struggle with her curse brought her back to reality. She sighed again and put on her usual clothes from some time ago, a jacket with a black shirt next to her old silk pants, preparing to face another day of confusion, all while keeping her true thoughts a secret.

Ranma tried to ignore the throbbing pain that was beginning to run through her abdomen, but she couldn't take it anymore. Her period was being especially strong that day. She decided to skip sports class, not wanting to deal with anything else. With a quick step, she headed to the boys' locker room, which was fortunately empty.

She dropped to the floor and adopted a fetal position, pressing her knees against her chest. Why do I have to endure this? she thought, frustration on the surface. I'm a man... this shouldn't be happening to me. It's not fair.

The pain overwhelmed her, but even more so did the feeling of being trapped in a body she couldn't understand. She was so tired of everything. She couldn't understand why fate had condemned her to live with a cycle that had nothing to do with her, something that made her feel even more alienated.

It was then that she heard voices coming from the hallway. Two girls were talking quietly, enough for Ranma to hear them clearly.

"Are you sure it's not just stress, Yuka?" said Sayuri, with a smile that couldn't hide her concern. "Wouldn't it be better for you to take something for the pain? I always do when I get it."

Yuka, a little more nervous, replied, "I don't know, Sayuri... I don't feel well. I'm nauseous and everything. What if I'm... pregnant?"

Sayuri looked at her with a mixture of surprise and amusement. "I don't think you are, Yuka. But yeah, maybe you should take something. Just to relax a little."

The words made Ranma tense up even more. Why... why do I have to go through this? Tears began to form in her throat. The girls' comments reminded her that she couldn't escape this reality. What she felt was not only physical pain, but also a constant discomfort with her body. But her mind couldn't process it all.

A sob escaped her lips, and the girls, hearing it, stopped and looked towards the locker room.

"Ranma...???" Sayuri said softly, peeking into the locker room. "Are you okay?"

Ranma, squeezing her eyes shut, tried to hold back the tears, but couldn't. "No... I'm not okay," she murmured, her voice breaking. "Why... why do I have to endure this? Why does a man have to live with... this?"

Yuka cautiously entered the locker room, sitting near Ranma. "You don't have to explain anything to us, Ranma," she said gently, trying to comfort her. "But... why are you so upset? It's not normal for you to feel like this."

Ranma lifted her head and looked at her, with tears in her eyes. "It's just... I don't understand. Why am I a man and I have to live with this? I can be a girl, but it seems like fate is imposing it on me... And I can't do anything about it." Her voice broke at the end of the sentence, frustration and pain dominating every word.

Sayuri watched her carefully, without judgment. "I understand that it's not easy, Ranma. But... have you considered that maybe it's not something that you have to experience alone? We all have our struggles, even if they are different."

Ranma, however, was not ready to accept that possibility. "But I don't want to... I want this to disappear. They tell me I'm a man, but here I am, going through something that shouldn't be mine. I hate it. I hate it a lot."

Yuka, seeing how vulnerable Ranma felt, tried to offer some comfort. "It's normal to feel frustrated when your body doesn't respond as you expect. But the important thing is that you're not alone, Ranma. If you ever need to talk about this, or just rest, you can count on us."

Ranma dried her tears, feeling a mixture of relief and shame. "I don't want anyone to know this. If they find out... what will they think of me? They'll look at me weird... and think I'm a pervert or something worse. I can't deal with that."

Sayuri nodded slowly, understandingly. "We're not going to say anything, Ranma. We understand that what you're going through is difficult. You don't have to share it with anyone if you don't want to. But what if we talk about it more in depth another day? Maybe we can find a way to help you."

Ranma nodded slowly, looking at the ground. Despite her confused feelings, for the first time in a long time she felt somewhat relieved. Maybe, just maybe, she didn't have to carry this weight alone.

"Thank you," she murmured finally, without looking up. "You won't say anything, right?"

"No, we won't say anything," Sayuri replied, with a warm smile. "But if you ever need to talk, you know you can count on us."

As the two girls walked down the hall towards the volleyball court, Yuka said with a mocking tone, "Looks like I'm going to win a bet against you guys."

Sayuri only replied with a dry tone, "I doubt it. I still maintain that no guy likes being a woman for two weeks and enjoys it, without questioning what he said, ""I must be a boy,"" remember Yuka... I think I'll win the bet. I'll just push her a little more and sooner rather than later we'll have a happy girl helping us in the sports tournaments."

The sun began to set as Ranma and Akane walked along the path back home. The cool afternoon air did not manage to calm the tension that floated between them, and Akane knew it. Since the day before, Ranma had been avoiding her. It was nothing new for Ranma to be a bit distant, but something in his attitude seemed different to her. She didn't know if it was something she had done or if it was just Ranma's damn pride.

"Ranma," she finally said, trying to break the silence. "You haven't looked at me since yesterday, what's wrong?"

Ranma frowned and let out a nervous laugh. "Nothing's wrong, Akane. What's wrong with you, huh? Why are you so worried?"

Akane looked at him sideways, exasperated. "That's not it, you idiot. It's just that you've been avoiding talking to me since yesterday, did I do something that bothered you?"

Ranma grimaced, looking at the ground, not knowing what to answer. "It's nothing... you know, my own things, don't worry."

Akane frowned even more. "It's not nothing, Ranma! How can you say that? You're acting weird, and I'm fed up with that nonsense."

Ranma, uncomfortable, put his hands in his pockets and took longer strides, as if walking faster could ward off Akane's questions. "It's not a big deal, Akane. Stop making a drama out of this. I... I'm not avoiding anything. I just don't feel like talking, okay?"

Akane looked at him more intensely, her eyes reflecting the frustration she felt. "No, Ranma, it's not just that. It's just... I don't know. You're acting weird, as if I was chasing you or something. I don't like you behaving like this. I don't know if you're mad at me or if... why don't you just tell me once and for all?"

Ranma stopped for a moment, looking at the ground, as if searching for the right words. But he only sighed and shook his head. "It's just... I can't say it, okay?" Again, his foot moved nervously on the ground, as if shame was consuming him. "It's nothing, it's just that... I don't want to talk about it now. I already told you."

Akane was silent for a moment, looking at Ranma's face. There was something more, she could feel it. But instead of letting it pass, she decided to be direct. "Why can't you tell me what's wrong?! What's so bad that you can't tell me?"

Ranma, feeling the weight of his own thoughts drowning him, finally reacted in a way as Ranma as always: with a silly comment. "Bah, what do I know, Akane. You're too noisy, every time you talk it feels like I'm on a battlefield!"

Akane looked at him furiously, as if his words were a direct blow to the face. "That's not what I'm asking you! Stop changing the subject! Don't you really trust me or what?"

Ranma, feeling the pressure, crossed his arms and let out a nervous laugh. "It's not that... it's just that, you know... I'm not good at this... talking thing. I'm not like you, you understand?"

Akane looked at him more intensely, but her eyes changed, becoming softer. "Then... why don't you tell me what's wrong, Ranma? I don't want to see you like this, hiding all the time."

Ranma swallowed, cursing his clumsiness. How could he explain what he felt when he himself didn't understand what was happening inside his head? But, instead of staying silent, he let out a whisper, barely audible. "It's just... I don't know what's wrong with me, Akane. It's not that easy."

Akane looked at him, surprised by the sincerity in his words. She didn't expect Ranma to open up, even if it was so little, but something in his gaze told her that there was much more behind his attitude. She slowly approached, giving him a shove on the shoulder, but without anger, only with a touch of tenderness. "It's okay. If you don't want to talk now, I understand. But don't keep making those excuses. I know you, Ranma."

Ranma, a little uncomfortable, smiled awkwardly, not knowing how to react to Akane's warmth. "Yeah, yeah... I know, Akane. I'm not that easy to understand."

Akane looked at him with a slight smile, although still worried about him. "You never will be, Ranma. But that doesn't mean I can't try to understand you."

"Okay, let's go get ice cream. We can still make it home a little late. I'll pay, but you have to promise me one thing: you're going to stop being an imbecile and we're going to talk, okay?"

"Look who's talking. You usually hit me without explaining things, tomboy."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever, Ranma, but we're going to talk because we're reaching a pretty awkward situation with your dad, both for you and for my sisters and me, so I need you to be honest, at least just for today."

Ranma smiled with his eyes shining with happiness as he held his double chocolate ice cream with whipped cream. He took a generous spoonful and savored it with an expression of pure delight.

"Wow, Akane, you definitely know what I like!" he exclaimed enthusiastically, moving his legs like an excited child. "This was one of your best ideas. Since when do you have such good taste for this?"

Akane rolled her eyes with a slight smile, enjoying her own strawberry ice cream with almond pieces. "Please, Ranma, it's not that hard to know that you like anything that's sweet and free."

Ranma let out a mocking laugh. "Exactly! And if it's free, it tastes even better."

The atmosphere in the ice cream parlor was lively, with the murmur of other customers and the sound of spoons clinking against the glasses. The place had a cozy air, with small hanging lamps that softly illuminated the wooden tables. It was a rare moment of peace between them, without fights, without problems, only the pleasure of a well-deserved ice cream.

But then, Akane put her spoon aside and looked at him with a more serious expression.

"Ranma," she began, with a calm but firm tone. "Have you ever thought about your future?"

Ranma, who was in the middle of his second spoonful, stopped. His expression changed from pure joy to slight discomfort. "Huh? Future?"

Akane nodded. "Yes, I mean... what are you going to do? Are you going to spend the rest of your life looking for a cure for your curse and fighting all the time?"

Ranma frowned, stirring his ice cream with the spoon without really paying attention. "Well... I don't know, Akane. It's not like I've sat down to think about it seriously."

Akane sighed, resting her elbows on the table. "Well, I have thought about it. I want to go to college. At first I thought my destiny was the dojo, that I had to continue with the tradition, but over time I've realized that that's not what I really want. Day by day, the dojo has become something secondary for me."

Ranma looked at her sideways. He didn't know what to say. Akane had a plan, something he had never allowed himself to think about.

"College, huh?" he murmured, stirring his ice cream.

"Yes. And I'm not saying this to brag or anything, I just... I want you to think about what you want to do, Ranma." Akane watched him with concern. "You can't live like this forever, aimlessly. Someday you'll have to decide."

Ranma didn't respond right away. His thoughts were a whirlwind, but on the surface there was only silence. He finished his spoonful of ice cream and looked to the side, not daring to return her gaze.

"I guess I never really thought about it," he admitted in a low voice.

Akane gave him an understanding smile. "You don't have to decide now, but I do want you to think about it. I don't want to see you waste your life fighting one battle after another, without knowing what for."

Ranma remained silent, with the spoon in his hand. It wasn't a conversation he could resolve in a single day, but for the first time, the idea of a "future" began to take root in his mind.

Akane stayed looking at him for a moment longer and decided to take advantage of the silence to push a little more.

"Ranma... haven't you ever thought that Genma is part of the problem?"

Ranma looked up suddenly, frowning. "What?"

"Think about it," Akane continued, resting her chin on one hand. "Your whole life has been your fault his bad decisions. He sold you for food, he took you to ridiculous training, he got you into unnecessary fights, and he hasn't even been a good father. He's only filled your head with sexist garbage and a code of honor that only suits him."

Ranma tightened his lips, tensinghis shoulders. "The old man is an idiot, I know. But he's my pop."

"So what?" Akane looked at him seriously. "Being family doesn't mean you have to keep obeying him. You don't have to live the way he wants. You have the right to decide what to do with your life."

Ranma didn't answer. He just played with his ice cream, pushing it with the spoon.

Akane sighed and, after a pause, asked the question that intrigued her the most.

"Why do you risk your life every time you can for a cure? Is your curse that bad?"

Ranma opened his mouth to answer, but Akane interrupted him before he could say anything.

"Think about it. Isn't it worse to be a panda? Or a duck? Or a cat?"

Ranma swallowed. The automatic answer, the one he always gave, was on the tip of his tongue: "I'm a man, I have to go back to being one." But... it was true.

Ryoga was obsessed with being human again, but who wouldn't be, especially living on the street. Shampoo, although she detested her cat form, didn't put herself at risk for a cure. Mousse barely cared. And Genma... well, he loves sleeping as a panda, I think?

So, why him...?

Ranma closed his mouth, looking away.

Akane didn't pressure him anymore. She just stayed there, giving him time. But she had already sown the doubt.

"Ranma, during this time you have seemed like a proud jerk who doesn't know what he's saying and only represses his feelings because, according to you and your father, that's what men do, but when you let go of that, when you relax from not knowing exactly what you are, you're kind, even funny, and it makes me think that having a future with you isn't so bad."

"We have a year and a half left until graduation, Ranma. If you want to continue with this commitment or even want to continue living in the house, you have to find answers to everything that suppresses you. You know, you should see what you're good at, except fighting. I've always seen you get dumbfounded when you see people with the piano or violin. What if for the first time you sign up for an extracurricular class?"

"........ I'll think about it."

Chapter Text

Ranma walked through the streets of Nerima with a frown, kicking a stone without much enthusiasm. He had managed to leave the house without problems, avoiding the gazes of Akane and his father. He didn't feel like dealing with questions, nor with the strange feeling he had been carrying since the previous day's conversation.

Akane's question had resonated too much in his head: "Why do you risk your life for a cure? And worst of all, is your curse that bad?"

He scoffed. "Of course it is," he thought with annoyance. But then, as always, a part of his mind doubted. A part that didn't want to listen.

Almost without realizing it, his feet led him to Ucchan's. At least there he could eat something without worrying too much. He pushed the restaurant door and the smell of freshly made okonomiyaki gave him a warm welcome. Ukyo was behind the griddle, moving the spatula with dexterity, and when she saw him enter, she gave him a lopsided smile.

"Hey, sugar! That face of yours says the world owes you something."

Ranma snorted and sat at the bar. "Don't start, Ucchan. Just give me something to eat."

Ukyo rolled her eyes, but didn't press further, at least for the moment. While preparing his food, Konatsu entered from the back of the restaurant. As always, her walk was elegant and her posture impeccable. Seeing Ranma, she gave an educated bow.

"Good afternoon, Ranma-sama. It's a pleasure to see you."

"Hey, Konatsu," Ranma greeted without much enthusiasm. He observed Konatsu for a moment and, not knowing exactly why, his mind wandered. "Hey, you..." he hesitated for an instant, "you dress like a woman all the time, but you were born a man, how do you do it so well?"

Konatsu blinked before smiling gently. "That's correct, but I am a woman."

Ranma frowned. "But... I mean, it's confusing!"

Ukyo gave him a warning glance, but Konatsu remained calm. "Ranma-sama, what matters is not the body I was born with, but who I am. And I am a woman." Then she tilted her head. "Why the question?"

Ranma crossed his arms, drumming his fingers on his own arm. "I don't know... It's just that..." He paused for a moment. "It's complicated."

Konatsu looked at him with a sympathetic glint in her eyes. "I think I have something for you, please, wait a moment." She quickly retreated to her room.

While Konatsu was away, Ukyo finished cooking and placed the plate in front of Ranma. "Eat. And by the way, I want to tell you something."

Ranma, who had already grabbed the chopsticks, looked at Ukyo curiously. "What thing?"

Ukyo leaned her elbows on the bar and observed him with a serious expression. "I'm not after you anymore."

The redhead almost choked. "What?!"

Ukyo laughed and shook her head. "Don't make that face. My heart is already occupied by another idiot." She nodded towards the direction Konatsu had gone.

Ranma blinked and looked back. "Konatsu?"

"Yes, that idiot." Ukyo smiled fondly. "Although she's a lovely idiot."

Ranma looked at her with surprise before letting out a light laugh. "Well, congratulations, I guess. I hope it works out for you."

"Thanks, sugar. I appreciate it."

There was a brief comfortable silence, but then Ranma frowned. "But, hey, now that I mention it... How did you survive in an all-boys high school? I mean, living as a man by choice. That's foolish."

Ukyo froze. "...By choice?"

"Well, I had to do it. But I wouldn't choose it just because."

Ukyo felt a lump in her throat. "Ranma... what you're saying is..." She stopped and stared at him. "Have you never thought about what it really means to be a man or a woman?"

Ranma tensed. "What do you mean by that?"

Ukyo sighed. "Nothing, nothing. Just... you should think about it."

Before Ranma could respond, Konatsu returned with a pamphlet in her hand and placed it in front of him.

"Here, Ranma-sama. This might help you."

Ranma took the paper and frowned as he read it. He didn't expect to find something so direct: 'Gender Identity and Self-Exploration'.

"What is this supposed to be?" he asked, not letting go of it.

Konatsu smiled gently. "It's information. About people like me, about people who have felt what you feel and don't know how to put it into words."

Ranma felt a chill run down his spine. "I don't... this has nothing to do with me."

Ukyo leaned an elbow on the bar and gave him an evaluating look. "Maybe not, sugar. But if it were, would you really admit it?"

Ranma pressed his lips together and felt a surge of frustration. "Look, I just... I don't know what to say. This is confusing. I've never felt... like this."

"Like what?" Konatsu asked sweetly.

Ranma hesitated. "I don't know. Sometimes it's easier to be in this body, okay? It's like... like everyone expects less from me. Like I don't have to prove anything all the time. And when I'm like this, things feel... lighter. But there's also that part that says I shouldn't like it. That it's wrong. That... that it's giving up."

Ukyo and Konatsu exchanged a meaningful look. Ukyo sighed. "Ranma, gender identity isn't black and white. It's not just 'man' or 'woman'. And if the idea of being in one body causes you so much conflict, maybe it's time to ask yourself why."

Ranma swallowed. "But it's not like I'm weak or anything. I mean, I'm not a girl."

Konatsu smiled gently. "Being a woman isn't being weak, Ranma-sama. There are many strong girls. And if you're worried about proving something, I challenge you to try it. Try it. Spend a whole month as a woman. Without changing back, without excuses. See how you feel."

Ranma stared at her, dumbfounded. "A whole month!? You're crazy! I can barely go two weeks without my life falling apart, either dad will kill me."

Konatsu just tilted her head serenely. "If you're really so sure of who you are, then you wouldn't have a problem trying it, would you? Besides, Ranma, let's be honest, if you die against them, it's because you want to. Neither of them should give you much trouble."

Arriving at the Tendo house, somewhat calmer either from the exercise of walking or because she spoke, Ranma entered, being greeted by a kick from her father.

"What the hell is wrong with you, damn panda, are you tired of living!!!!"

"Ranma!" Genma's voice echoed through the house. "Where were you? A real man doesn't spend his time loafing around without training!"

Ranma, still irritated, scoffed and crossed his arms. "Leave me alone, old man. I'm not in the mood."

Genma frowned and approached with his typical domineering attitude. "Ha! Excuses! If you keep going like this, you'll end up a weakling."

Ranma felt a pang of fury and, without thinking, blurted out, "You know what? Maybe being strong isn't the only thing that matters."

Genma stopped, surprised by the response. "What are you talking about?"

Ranma gritted his teeth. He didn't want to talk about it. He didn't want to think about it. "Nothing. Forget it."

Genma looked at him suspiciously, but Ranma didn't give him another chance. He turned and locked himself in his room, throwing himself onto the futon with a heavy sigh.

"If I'm going to be a girl for a month, I need extra underwear, I've been like this for quite a while thanks to Herb or the old hag, but now I refuse not to wear a bra for a whole month, I don't know how I endured it before."

"Kasumi-nee will surely help me with that, I'd also like some nice new clothes without being too flashy, I doubt I'll dress like a celebrity for a whole month, although I can still steal something from Kane."

"Wait... am I really thinking about doing this?"

"I'm not stupid, or at least I want to believe I'm not, but I can't be a girl, I'm not like Konatsu, I'm sure that since I was a child, she had something clear about what she wanted."

"I, on the other hand, live as a boy, I boast of my masculinity, I was in an all-boys school, I constantly get into fights, damn it, I've lived as a man all my life, I don't know what I'm going to do this month, my attitude when I go out as a girl is just an act, it wasn't real, what should I do? go out and buy clothes, dresses, what do girls do that differentiates me from a real girl?"

As fatigue gave way to sleep, Ranma finished his monologue, leaving his worries for later.

Ranma plunged into a strange dream, as if his mind were dragging him to a place he didn't fully understand. He found himself in the dojo, but something didn't fit. The walls were too high, deformed as if space stretched endlessly. The light was dim and flickering, casting distorted shadows on the floor.

In front of him was a huge mirror, as tall as the ceiling and as wide as the wall. His reflection appeared immediately, but something was wrong. It didn't move with him, but had a life of its own. First, his male image stared at him, with the confident and arrogant expression he had always worn. But then, in a blink, his reflection changed.

Now it was his female version, with a calm smile and eyes that seemed to know more than they should.

"I was always me," the reflection whispered, though its lips barely moved.

Ranma took a step back, feeling a chill run down his spine. "That's not true... I..."

The reflection raised a hand, but didn't mimic his movement. It moved on its own.

"Why do you try so hard to be something you're not?"

The mirror began to distort, showing fragmented and blurry images. The first was the cat pit. He, as a child, trembling, surrounded by infernal meows. Pure terror etched on his face.

If he weren't a martial artist, he wouldn't be going through this hell.

The scene changed abruptly. Now he saw his childhood with Genma. His father yelled at him that men don't cry, that he had to be strong, that he had to be the best. The image jumped and distorted. Now he was in the all-boys high school, surrounded by classmates who hit him in the name of "friendship," mocking any gesture that wasn't "manly" enough.

Be strong. Be a man. Be strong. Be a man.

The words echoed in his head like an unbreakable mantra.

Suddenly, the reflection was himself again in his female form. But this time he wasn't smiling. He looked at him with infinite sadness.

"So much effort... so much pain... all to fit into something you don't even know if you want."

The dojo disappeared, and now he was standing in a dark forest. The sound of the wind blew softly, but there was something oppressive in the air. In front of him, a girl was kneeling, her back to him. Her red hair floated slightly in the wind.

Ranma felt a lump in his throat.

"Who are you?" he asked.

The girl turned, and her face was his, but with an expression of fear and sadness. Her lips moved, but the words were a weak whisper, almost unrecognizable.

"Let me be me..."

Ranma woke up with a start, covered in sweat, his heart pounding in his chest. He looked around, breathing heavily.

The pamphlet was still in his hand.

For the first time, he felt the urge to read it.

The morning sun came through the window, gently illuminating Ranma's room. For the first time in a long time, he woke up feeling... good. His head wasn't heavy with tormenting thoughts, nor was there a feeling of discomfort about his own body. The dream of the previous night still floated in his mind, but instead of making him anxious, it aroused a certain curiosity.

He stretched with energy and got out of bed. Today he wasn't going to let anything spoil his day.

When he went out to the patio, he saw his father already waiting for him in a fighting stance, with a serious expression. Ranma smiled.

"You're really eager to get beat up today, aren't you, old man?"

Genma didn't respond, just adopted his attack stance. Ranma took a breath, relaxed his body, and then launched into the offensive.

The fight didn't last long. This time, Ranma decided not to hold back. He moved with speed and precision, easily dodging every attack from his father. A couple of well-placed punches, a spinning kick, and finally a direct elbow made Genma fly and land in the pond with a big splash.

When the panda emerged from the water and shook his head, he found the image of his son—now in his female form—standing, arms crossed and a confident smile.

"That's it? Come on, old man, I thought you'd do better."

The panda just growled and held up a sign: "That wasn't a fair fight!"

Ranma rolled her eyes. "Oh, please. You're the one who always says you have to take advantage of any advantage, right? Well, I did. I'm going to have breakfast."

When Ranma entered the dining room, she immediately felt the gazes on her. Kasumi, Akane, and Nabiki were sitting at the table, but there was a strange atmosphere in the room.

Kasumi, as always, smiled sweetly, although her gaze seemed to analyze her more attentively than usual. Akane frowned, as if trying to understand something that didn't quite fit in her mind. Nabiki, on the other hand, had a raised eyebrow and a mocking smile on her lips.

"Well, well, Ranma," Nabiki said in her characteristic tone, "is this going to become a regular thing?"

Ranma blinked, not immediately understanding what she meant, until she saw where Nabiki was pointing her gaze.

The clothes she had chosen for breakfast were simply comfortable: a loose t-shirt and sports pants. Nothing out of the ordinary... except that under the t-shirt, the shape of a sports bra was clearly visible.

"What?" Ranma replied indifferently. "It's comfortable."

"Comfortable?" Akane repeated, incredulous.

"Yes, especially since, according to the old hag, I'll probably be like this for at least a whole month," Ranma said naturally as she served herself rice in her bowl.

Kasumi, with her kind smile, just nodded and continued eating as if nothing had happened. Akane, on the other hand, almost choked on her tea.

"A MONTH?!"

Nabiki rested her chin on her hand and looked at Ranma with a suspicious expression.

"A whole month? Hmm, how convenient," she commented. "Because, curiously, there's always a week every month when you don't show yourself in male form... and now it turns out you're going to spend a whole month like this."

Ranma gave her a warning look.

"Oh, come on, Nabiki, don't start."

"I haven't started anything, Ranma. But you, on the other hand, seem to have."

Kasumi intervened at the right moment.

"Ranma, would you like more rice?"

"Yes, thank you!" she said immediately, seizing the opportunity to divert the conversation.

Nabiki smiled to herself, but didn't insist further. However, the glint in her eyes made it clear that she still had questions.

Meanwhile, Ranma continued to have breakfast, ignoring the weight of the gazes and trying to convince herself that everything was under control.

Because it was... wasn't it?

The atmosphere at Furinkan High School was always chaotic, but for Ranma, today everything felt strangely easy. Since she had made the decision to be a girl for a month, she had noticed something curious about herself:

If she was going to do this, then she was going to do it well.

After all, wasn't Ranma Saotome the best at everything she did? If Konatsu was right and living as a woman shouldn't be a problem, then she would prove that not even the Jusenkyo curse could beat her.

Her posture was relaxed and confident as she walked through the halls, ignoring the gazes of her classmates. Although it wasn't uncommon to see her in her female form, the fact that she wasn't trying to avoid it did attract attention.

But before she could even get to the classroom...

"OH, MY GODDESS! YOU HAVE SHONE ONCE AGAIN IN THIS HUMBLE SCHOOL!"

Ranma sighed. Seriously? This early in the morning?

Tatewaki Kuno was already in front of her, with his katana in hand and an enraptured look.

"Lady of my heart! Today I will once again demonstrate my eternal love and end the spell that vile Ranma Saotome has cast upon you! Come, let us conquer the firmament together!"

Ranma just rolled her eyes.

"Look, Kuno. I don't have time for this."

"You don't need it! What you need is my love!"

Ranma clicked her tongue. She didn't want to ruin her good mood for the day, so she decided to make it as quick as possible.

In the blink of an eye, she moved with superhuman speed. Kuno barely had time to react before Ranma knocked him down with a well-placed spinning kick. His katana flew through the air, landing in the courtyard fountain.

Kuno collapsed backward with a THUD! as Ranma shook her hands as if nothing had happened.

"There, problem solved."

The students watching the scene murmured in surprise. It wasn't uncommon for Ranma to beat Kuno, but this time... there was something different about the way she had done it. There were no taunts, no anger, no complaints about the curse. Just a quick and effective elimination of a nuisance.

Ranma smiled confidently and continued on her way as if nothing had happened.

During the first classes, Sayuri and Yuka couldn't help but glance at Ranma from time to time. Something in her attitude was different.

She wasn't acting with the usual discomfort when she was in her female form. She wasn't complaining, she wasn't trying to hide, she wasn't huffing and puffing saying she was a "man" every five minutes.

When the bell rang for lunchtime, both girls looked at each other and, without saying a word, decided to look for her.

Ranma was sitting on the school roof, enjoying her lunch in peace when Sayuri and Yuka appeared.

"Hey, Ranma!" Yuka greeted with a smile.

"What are you doing here?" Ranma asked, chewing a bite of rice.

Sayuri sat next to her and rested her head on her hand.

"Nothing, we just wanted to see how you were... because you're acting weird today."

Ranma blinked. "Huh? What are you talking about? I'm the same as always."

"No, you're not," Yuka interjected, crossing her arms. "Today you seemed too comfortable with... well, with this."

Ranma swallowed her food and sighed.

"Well, if you want to know... I've decided I'm going to be a girl for a month."

The two girls were silent for a few seconds before blinking in confusion.

"What?" said Sayuri.

"Why would you do that?" Yuka asked.

Ranma smiled with her characteristic proud and somewhat foolish air.

"Because I want to prove that I can do it without it changing who I am! After all, I'm Ranma Saotome, the best at everything I do! If I can live a whole month as a girl and still be the same afterward, then this doesn't affect me at all."

Sayuri and Yuka exchanged a quick glance and then chuckled.

"What are you laughing about?" Ranma asked with a frown.

"Oh, nothing," Sayuri replied with a mischievous smile. "It's just that, if we're right, then you're very, very close to realizing something."

"Realizing what?" Ranma asked confused.

"Nothing, nothing~" Yuka replied playfully.

Ranma scoffed. "Whatever."

Then she looked at them with a bit more seriousness.

"Hey... thanks for not telling anyone about the locker rooms the other day."

Sayuri and Yuka smiled gently.

"Don't worry, we know it was personal," Sayuri said.

"Besides, we don't want to pressure you," Yuka added. "But, since you're going to be a girl for a month..."

The two leaned towards Ranma with a mischievous smile.

"How about we have a girls' day out?" Sayuri proposed.

Ranma blinked.

"A what?"

"Come on, it'll be fun," Yuka said. "We can go out together after school, go shopping, have a drink, do girly things~"

Ranma opened her mouth to protest... but then she thought about it.

If she was going to prove that this wasn't a problem for her, then she had to accept the challenge, right?

"Hmm... okay. But only because I want to prove that none of this affects me."

"Yesss!" said Sayuri and Yuka at the same time, high-fiving with excitement.

Ranma, on the other hand, crossed her arms and smiled proudly.

A girls' day out, huh?

None of that was going to change who she was, was it?

...Was it?

Chapter Text

—Come on, Ranma! Hurry up or we'll miss the double parfait promotion— Sayuri shouted, already half a meter ahead.

—And then we're going to the new clothing store on the second floor!— added Yuka, turning around with a radiant smile.

Ranma followed them with a somewhat slow step, one hand in her pocket, the other adjusting her high ponytail. She was wearing a somewhat tight sports t-shirt, high-waisted skinny jeans, and new sneakers that Sayuri and Yuka had convinced her to try on “just to see how they looked.”

—I don't know why you brought me— she grumbled, though without real annoyance. —I only came because I had to make sure you two didn't get into trouble without me. I don't care about parfaits or clothes.

The girls looked at each other and smiled knowingly. Ranma spoke with that mix of wounded pride and adorable silliness that she did so well, but she didn't complain too much. In fact, she hadn't complained all afternoon.

The first stop was a discreet but modern boutique. Sayuri pulled out a sheer blouse and a black pleated skirt.

—Try it on.

—Are you crazy!? What does that have to do with martial arts?

—It has to do with looking good, silly— Yuka laughed. —Come on, just for a second. If you don't like it, we'll go find something 'stronger'.

Ranma looked at her suspiciously.

—Strong like... a strong punch?

—No, like a strong look— Sayuri replied. —You know... confidence, power. That vibe.

—...Bah, fine— Ranma grumbled, taking the clothes to the fitting room.

Five minutes later, she came out wearing the blouse and skirt. The girls applauded softly.

—You look amazing!

Ranma crossed her arms, a slight blush on her cheeks.

—It's not a big deal. It just... looks good because it shows off my muscles. You get it, right? Look at my shoulder— she said, pointing to it proudly. —And my neck. It makes me look stronger, more confident. Like a warrior or something.

—Sure, sure— Sayuri nodded without losing her smile. —Very... threatening.

Yuka pulled out a beret and put it on Ranma.

—There! Now you look like a street artist with fighting skills. You're perfect for intimidating the world!

—Pffft... don't exaggerate— Ranma murmured, but she looked at herself in the mirror. And she lingered a little longer than necessary.

Then they went to a shoe store, an accessories store, and even a cosmetics store where, amid laughter, Sayuri managed to paint one of Ranma's nails before she escaped horrified but laughing. Laughter came easily to her that afternoon. Without thinking too much.

Later, at the café, the three of them shared a giant parfait. Ranma had completely relaxed, though she still pretended not to enjoy every spoonful.

—So, Ranma— Sayuri began, casually, —what do you do when you feel pretty?

—Huh? Pretty? I don't... what kind of question is that?

—Don't look at me like that— Yuka interjected. —It's a normal question. It's not weird to want to look good, feel good, right?

—I just... if something looks good, I wear it. Like that black top that makes your shoulders look wider— she tried to justify, remembering another garment she had tried on without saying she loved it.

—Uh-huh— they both said in unison, clearly not believing her.

There was a brief silence as they shared another bite of the parfait. Then Sayuri dropped a devastatingly natural phrase:

—Have you ever wondered if you like being treated like a girl... because you are one?

Ranma swallowed a piece of fruit without chewing it completely. She coughed a little.

—What!? Of course not! I'm only doing this for a month to prove that it doesn't matter, that I'm still a guy! It's just that I'm better than everyone else even as a girl! Doesn't that make it even more impressive?

—Very, very much— Yuka said, patting her arm.

Sayuri leaned back in her chair, playing with her spoon.

—It seems to me that you don't need to prove anything, you know? It's obvious you're comfortable. You laugh more, you talk differently. You walk differently.

Ranma didn't respond. She stared out the café window. In the reflection of the glass, she saw three laughing girls. And she didn't know why, but the reflection seemed... warm. Familiar. Like she wasn't pretending anything.

She smiled. Barely. But it was real.

—...maybe I did like the parfait— she confessed softly.

And Sayuri and Yuka said nothing. They just smiled and took another spoonful.

—Hey, Ranma— Sayuri asked as they left the café, walking leisurely under the sunset. —You live alone with your dad, right?

—Yeah, although these days I'm at the Tendo's house. My dad's a mess, you know how he is.

—And your mom? You never talk about her.

Ranma stopped for a moment. She looked to the side, as if she didn't quite know how to answer.

—I don't... I don't know much. I don't know her. She was never around.

—Oh...— Yuka looked down for a moment. —I'm sorry, we didn't mean to make you uncomfortable.

—Nah, it's nothing— Ranma replied with a crooked smile, more sad than annoyed. —Anyway, with Kasumi, Nabiki, and even Akane around, it sometimes feels like I have three different moms... or three overly involved older sisters. I guess it's okay.

Sayuri put an arm around her shoulders and pulled her in affectionately.

—Well, today you had two more. At least for the afternoon.

—Hey! I'm not a little sister. I'm a world-class martial artist!

—Sure, champ— Yuka said, as the three of them laughed and continued walking.

The afternoon turned golden as the city slowed down, and in that moment, Ranma didn't need any more proof. Just the echo of laughter, shared steps, and the feeling of being, at least for a while, exactly where she wanted to be.

Ranma returned home late in the afternoon, with the sun turning the roofs of Nerima orange. She carried several bags hanging from her arms, disguising a smile every time she remembered a joke or comment from Sayuri and Yuka during the outing. Upon opening the door, the scent of jasmine and tea floated in the air. There were no screams, no fights, no pandas flying through the garden. Just peace.

Kasumi waited for her in the dining room doorway, with her warm smile and a folded box in her arms.

—Welcome, Ranma. I'm glad you had fun— she said, and then, with a gentle gesture, she handed her the box. —I thought you might like to wear this tonight.

Ranma opened the lid. Inside was a simple but adorable pajama: soft fabric with subtle lace details and a blouse with small mother-of-pearl buttons. It was obviously old, but well cared for.

—It was mine— Kasumi explained, lowering her voice slightly. —I used to wear it when I was your age. It hasn't fit me in a long time, but... I didn't want to throw it away. It's clean and still pretty, right?

Ranma blinked. She felt a warm twinge in her chest, as if something invisible suddenly hugged her.

—T-thank you... Kasumi-ne...

Kasumi noticed the bags and smiled mischievously.

—Did you buy a lot of clothes? Where did you get the money? Or should I help you hide them in my room as usual?

Ranma let out a guilty giggle.

—Yeah... yeah, some help would be good. I don't want Akane to see me with a lace skirt. She'd send me flying with a chair.

The two went upstairs in silence, carrying the bags carefully. Instead of going to Ranma's room, Kasumi opened hers and invited her in. It was a spacious, tidy room, with a shelf full of medical books, some literature, and old photos.

—You can stay here for a while. I have hot tea if you want.

Ranma left the bags by the bed and sat cross-legged on the tatami, relaxed.

—Thanks for this, really. It makes me feel... I don't know. Like someone's on my side.

Kasumi sat down in front of her and, with an almost maternal gesture, smoothed a stray strand of hair.

—I'm always on your side, Ranma. You know that.

There was a quiet pause. Only the sound of tea being poured filled the air.

—Can I ask you a question?— Kasumi said, suddenly more serious.

—Sure.

—Have you thought about your mother?

Ranma tensed.

—Not much... I don't know her well. Supposedly she's far away or dead. My dad never told me anything about her.

—I'm sorry— Kasumi murmured, placing her hand over Ranma's. —I didn't want to make you uncomfortable. It's just that... sometimes I think about mom and family. I love my sisters, but... I want things too. I'd like to go to college, study something beyond cooking and the house. Maybe medicine, maybe botany... I don't know.

Ranma looked at her, surprised by the confession. Kasumi always seemed perfect, happy. She never complained, never asked for anything.

—And why don't you do it?— she asked.

Kasumi smiled melancholically.

—Because I feel like I'm the pillar of this house. If I leave, everything might collapse. Nabiki would get lost in her accounts, Akane wouldn't eat well, and dad... well, I don't know what dad would do. But there's something else I wanted to tell you.

Kasumi got up and took a small wooden box from her dresser drawer. She opened it and took out an old photograph: a young, smiling woman with long, dark hair. Next to her, a red-haired boy.

—That... is my real father.

Ranma was silent.

—Huh...?

—I'm not dad's daughter. My mother had me when she had just started dating Soun Tendo. He raised me as his own, and never treated me differently... but mom told me the truth before she got sick. She told me I shouldn't blame anyone, that he probably doesn't know he has a daughter. That that red-haired boy was a brief but intense love. That he made her laugh when she needed it most.

Kasumi looked at her with bright eyes.

—And you... you remind me of how she described him. A brave young man, somewhat stubborn, with red hair like fire and a smile that hid his sadness.

Ranma didn't know what to say. She could only take the teacup and drink in silence, feeling the warmth seep into every corner of her body, stronger than ever. She didn't know if it was the drink, the words, or the feeling of being connected to something bigger than her.

Kasumi sat down next to her again and rested her head gently on Ranma's shoulder

A few days later, Ranma needed a break. She had been fulfilling her challenge to the letter, being a girl all the time. She dressed better, didn't complain about the bra, and had begun to understand what it meant to have space for herself.

She walked to the outskirts of Nerima, where the city noise faded and only the warm air and the rustling of leaves remained.

That's when she heard it.

A guitar, soft, sincere. A female voice, warm but melancholic, filling the air with a song that spoke of finding a home within oneself.

Ranma stopped.

The artist was sitting on a blanket, guitar in her arms, eyes closed. There were no spectators other than the wind. She sang as if no one was listening, or perhaps as if the whole world needed her.

Ranma sat a few steps away, saying nothing.

"And now I'm at war with my surroundings I don't need any reason

And it's that I'm a master of contradiction And an

expert at breaking the forbidden"

 

 

The words floated in the air, soft, like a caress to a wound that hasn't fully healed.

Ranma looked down. She didn't know why those phrases affected her so much, but there they were, piercing her chest without warning.

"And I remain a prisoner But now the wind runs around For my sins,

I remain a prisoner Flesh and bone"

The last chord faded like a feather.

—Did you like it?— asked the guitarist, opening her eyes. Her voice was softer without the melody.

—Yes— Ranma replied, without thinking. —It was... beautiful.

—You don't know how hard it was for me to write it— said the girl with a shy smile. —Sometimes things hurt more when they have no name.

Ranma nodded, not really knowing why.

The last note of the concert still floated in the air, like a soft caress that refused to die with the wind. Ranma remained seated in silence, her gaze lost in the orange-tinged sky. The afternoon fell slowly, as if it didn't want to interrupt that moment.

That's when a figure approached with serene steps.

A distinguished-looking woman, dressed in a dark blue kimono decorated with golden borders, stopped next to her. Her long hair, carefully styled, was a deep red tone, almost like red wine. There was something in the way she moved, in her posture, that radiated natural elegance, but also a veiled sadness, as if each step carried the weight of an untold story.

—Excuse me— she said in a soft voice, —does this road lead to Nerima? I haven't been here in many years and I'm afraid I've gone astray.

Ranma nodded, turning to her with curiosity.

—Yes, it's about a fifteen-minute walk straight down this street. Are you coming to visit someone?

The woman hesitated for a moment, but then smiled with a certain bitterness.

—You could say that. I'm looking for... my past. Or rather, trying to correct it. I made mistakes— she continued, her gaze fixed on a point in the horizon. —I not only abandoned a son, but two. Sometimes I tell myself that I had reasons, that I was young, that I didn't know what I was doing. But over the years, those excuses become more and more empty.

Ranma watched her in silence. She didn't know what to say. There was something about this woman that was unsettlingly familiar, but she didn't know what.

—And do you think you can make up for everything now?— she asked in a low voice, almost without thinking.

The woman was surprised by the question, but then nodded slowly.

—I don't know. Maybe it's too late. But I can't keep running. If I could at least see them... if I could tell them that I didn't forget them, that I always carried them in my heart... Maybe then, even if they don't forgive me, I'll know that I did the right thing for once in my life.

There was a long silence between them. Then, the woman bowed her head gratefully.

—Thank you for the directions. And for listening to me, young lady. Sometimes it's easier to open up to a stranger.

—You're welcome...— Ranma replied, still with a slightly furrowed brow.

The woman walked away with calm steps, leaving behind only the faint sound of the breeze through the trees.

Night had fallen gently over the Tendo household. Kasumi was in the kitchen, finishing putting away the dishes when the phone ring:

“I'm staying a little longer helping Ukyo. I'll be late. Don't wait for me for dinner! <3”

With that message Ranma said goodbye, informing Kasumi of her situation, she told her about the day and that a very imposing lady asked her for directions to Nerima.

Kasumi smiled and hung up the phone. She was happy to see Ranma more relaxed, more open. Perhaps she didn't fully accept it yet, but she was clearly changing. And that, somehow, gave her hope.

She was on her way to her room when the doorbell rang.

—At this hour?— she murmured. She dried her hands with a cloth and went to the door.

Upon opening, she found a woman of refined presence. She wore a deep blue kimono, with gray and white embroidered details. Her dark red hair, long to her back, was delicately styled, held by a simple silver pin. She had a serene expression, but her eyes—large, dark, full of years and regrets—had an intensity impossible to ignore.

Kasumi froze for a moment. It was the same woman Ranma had told her about, the one she had met hours before at sunset, while playing the guitar in the street.

—Mrs. Tendo?— asked the woman in a soft but firm voice. —My name is Nodoka Iori. I would like to see my son, Ranma... and Mr. Saotome.

Kasumi blinked. So it was true.

—Ah... Ranma hasn't returned yet— she replied, polite but bewildered. —But... Mr. Saotome is in the living room... Just a moment.

She walked quickly to the living room, where Genma was dozing in front of the television. But upon hearing the voice from the door, he sat up abruptly, turned pale, and, without thinking twice, transformed into a panda.

Kasumi returned to the entrance, just as Nodoka crossed the threshold. The woman stopped upon seeing the panda in the middle of the room.

—So this is how you run from your mistakes— she said, with a calmness that sounded much worse than a scream. —You hide. As always.

The panda remained still. His paws trembled slightly.

—Don't pretend, Genma. I know who you are. And I didn't come to be entertained with cheap tricks.

She left her handbag aside, next to the tatami, and looked directly at the animal.

—Fourteen years have passed since you took our son away. Fourteen years of silence. You said you would train him and return. But you didn't return. You didn't write. You didn't even let me know if he was alive.

The panda tried to raise a sign with an apology, but Nodoka raised an eyebrow, and the piece of cardboard fell to the floor.

—And now? What kind of father does this? What kind of man hides behind a disguise?

Kasumi, in silence, held a cup of freshly brewed tea, not daring to intervene.

—I haven't come to beg you or ask for explanations— Nodoka continued. —I'm here to see Ranma. To talk to him. To amend my own mistakes... because I made them too.

Her eyes softened, although her voice remained firm.

The woman then turned to Kasumi, smiling gently.

—Sorry for bursting in like this. Can I wait here until he returns?

Kasumi nodded, still in silence.

—Of course... Mrs. Iori. I'll make you some tea.

As the woman sat with dignity on the tatami, silence filled the house like a heavy breeze. The panda remained motionless, as if moving would break the world.

Kasumi, returning to the kitchen, could only think of one thing:

When Ranma returns, everything will change.

Chapter Text

the persistent aroma of okonomiyaki in the air, and the soft background music that Konatsu had put on from her phone created an almost homely atmosphere. Ranma, sleeves rolled up and hair tied in a messy bun, cleaned the last table while Ukyō finished counting the cash register and Konatsu diligently swept.

—Are you sure you're not taking this too seriously?— said Ukyō, resting her elbows on the counter. —I mean, you even offered to clean the bathrooms.

Ranma scoffed, without stopping rubbing the surface.

—Nah! I'm just accumulating points for when I become a living legend. “The best martial artist who is also a professional waitress.” Sounds great, doesn't it?

—Sounds like you're avoiding thinking too much— Konatsu replied with a soft smile, sweeping near the entrance.

—Maybe— Ranma admitted, straightening up and stretching her arms. —But the truth is... this week hasn't been so bad. Sayuri and Yuka were pretty cool, Kasumi gave me pajamas, and even at school they respect me more... even if it's weird to say. I didn't think I'd last this long without exploding, but it seems I can handle this.

—And you still think you're going to “go back to being a guy” after the month?— asked Ukyō, almost casually, though without looking directly at her.

Ranma blinked, a little uncomfortable.

—Of course! It's just a challenge. I'm proving that I can be just as good no matter how I look. Nothing more. I'm still the same as always, right?

Ukyō let out a small nostalgic laugh and sat next to Konatsu, who also stopped to listen.

—You know? When I went to boys' school... many times I thought they were going to find out. I had to speak deeper, be careful not to get excited when they called me “brother,” all that stuff. Sometimes I felt free. Other times, trapped.

—Trapped?— Ranma repeated, curious.

—Yes. Because... there were parts of me that enjoyed that life. Not out of obligation, but because I felt like myself. And then I thought... what if it wasn't just a disguise?

Ranma looked at her without saying anything, barely frowning.

Ukyō smiled sadly.

—I don't know yet. I just know that not all labels fit me... but some make me feel comfortable. Sometimes I think that if I had been born different, I wouldn't have to be thinking about any of this. Just exist.

—...that sounds complicated— said Ranma, softly.

—It is— Konatsu nodded. —But it's also more common than it seems.

—You too...?

—Let's just say that not everything in this house is black and white— said Konatsu, winking.

Ranma crossed her arms, sitting on a stool. She looked at her own hands, her clean nails, the faint smell of food on her shirt. She didn't know what to say.

—Hey— said Ukyō gently, —if at any time you want to talk about what you're feeling, without pressure, just say it. No one here is going to judge you for doubting.

Ranma looked at her, swallowing.

—I'm not doubting— she murmured, though it sounded more like a question than an affirmation.

Ukyō just nodded, without arguing.

—Well, just in case, the next batch of okonomiyaki is on me. To celebrate your first week as... well, as you.

Ranma smiled, half forced, half sincere.

—Thanks... I guess.

Meanwhile, at the Tendo house....

The table was already set when Nodoka Iori, with her serene bearing and her deep blue kimono decorated with delicate white floral details, took a seat next to the Tendo sisters. Her dark red hair, styled in an elegant updo secured with a discreet hairpin, gave her an air of calm dignity. Her eyes, sharp and expressive, observed every detail with an almost intimidating calm.

Soun Tendo, with the somewhat forced expression of someone who wishes to calm an impending storm, cleared his throat trying to start a casual conversation.

—Well, Mrs. Iori... the situation is not as bad as it seems. Your son is adapting, little by little. Even, if I'm not mistaken, he has a fiancée...

—We will not talk about that yet, Mr. Tendo— Nodoka replied, with a firm courtesy that did not need to raise her voice to command respect. —There are other more important things for now.

Kasumi, in her usual role as silent hostess, poured tea for everyone with precise movements. Nabiki, with her eyes narrowed and a calculating little smile, seemed to be anticipating the moment when the atmosphere would explode with some revelation.

—I would like to know more about Ranma— commented Nodoka, addressing the sisters in a soft voice. —How has it been living with him this week?

Kasumi was the first to respond, with her usual warmth and sincerity:

—He's been kind. A bit clumsy, of course... but he tries very hard. He has a good heart. He has helped a lot at home. It's obvious he wants to do well.

—And he takes this whole living-as-a-girl thing very seriously— added Nabiki, raising an eyebrow mischievously. —Although, if you ask me, he enjoys it more than he's willing to admit.

—Enjoys...?— repeated Nodoka, raising an eyebrow slightly.

—He came back with bags full of new clothes— Nabiki continued, casually. —He puts on makeup sometimes. He says he does it "because it's easier to go unnoticed that way"... but he doesn't fool me. He even agreed to go shopping with Sayuri and Yuka, and he didn't look unhappy at all.

Nodoka said nothing for a few seconds. She just took a sip of tea, her eyes fixed on the cup. There was something indecipherable in her gaze that even Nabiki couldn't quite read.

Kasumi looked down, feeling that there was more at stake than what was said aloud. There was a subtle tension, as if each word added weight to a secret still unnamed.

—And you?— asked Nodoka then, with an interest that seemed more personal than merely polite. —How has life been for Mr. Tendo's daughters?

—We have done the best we could— Soun replied with a mixture of pride and sadness in his voice. —Kasumi took care of keeping everything in order since Himiko... passed away.

—Himiko?— repeated Nodoka with a small nostalgic smile. —I knew her. We were friends in our youth. We shared a lot before... well, before our lives took different paths.

Soun blinked, genuinely confused.

—You knew my wife...? She never mentioned a friend named Nodoka...

—Perhaps she used another name at that time— Nodoka replied elegantly, avoiding the details with an air of subtle melancholy. —We were young. Things were different then.

Kasumi observed Nodoka more closely now. Something in her way of speaking, in her silences, began to awaken questions she didn't know how to formulate.

The conversation drifted to lighter topics. At one point, the subject of ages came up casually. Nabiki commented that she was seventeen. Akane said she was sixteen. Kasumi, without giving it too much importance, mentioned that she had already turned nineteen.

Nodoka stopped her gesture of drinking for a moment. Nineteen. Her mind calculated precisely, reviewing years and dates like someone following the thread of an uncomfortable memory.

Just before Himiko married Soun...

The resemblance. The way she moved. Even that quiet sweetness that Kasumi radiated.

But she said nothing. Not yet. She only allowed the silence to settle a little more before breaking it with a kind smile.

—You have a very warm home— Nodoka commented, in a softer voice. —It's obvious you love each other very much. It's admirable how you've grown up together.

—That is until someone eats the last mochi in the refrigerator— added Nabiki ironically.

There were some restrained laughs. Even the atmosphere seemed to relax for a moment. But the weight of the unspoken was still there, floating like a faint shadow. Nodoka looked at Kasumi with a different expression now. There was something between nostalgia... and hope. As if she was beginning to piece together a puzzle she had forgotten for years, but had always been waiting to assemble.

Kasumi glanced at the front door. Ranma had not yet returned. She had sent a message saying she would help Ukyō close her shop, but even so, the clock seemed to move slowly. Her hands were clasped in her lap, and her gaze, normally serene, looked somewhat distant, tinged with a melancholy that was rarely noticeable. In her heart, a doubt had been troubling her since the arrival of that elegant woman who said her name was Nodoka Iori.

She remembered the letter. The one her mother left her before she passed away. In it, her mother had confided the truth about her origin: that her biological father was not Soun Tendo, but a young man with whom she had a brief relationship before marrying. Even so, she loved him with all her heart. That young man, according to the letter, had red hair like fire, a serene smile, and an almost naive passion for martial arts. But in the whole story, no one named Nodoka was ever mentioned. The dates simply didn't match. However, there was something in the gestures, in the eyes of that woman, that made her heart beat strongly, as if she had known her long before.

With a mixture of determination, anxiety, and a hint of fear, she approached the woman in the blue kimono. Nodoka looked at her gently, almost as if she expected that moment.

—Mrs. Iori... Could I talk to you for a moment?— she asked politely, though her voice couldn't help but reflect her anxiety. —It's about Ranma... I'd like to understand some things better, to be able to help him.

Nodoka raised her eyebrows, slightly surprised. Her face remained serene, though inside her chest tightened like a drum.

Could it be...? Could she know something about my past...?

—Of course— she replied with a kind smile. —But I think it would be prudent to include Mr. Tendo in the conversation. After all, he is also part of this story.

Thus, the three of them headed to the dojo. Kasumi opened the paper doors with a respectful gesture, letting in Nodoka and Soun, who was still somewhat bewildered by everything he had heard at the table. They sat on the floor, facing each other, in a triangle charged with silent tension. The aroma of wood and tatami seemed denser than usual.

Kasumi took a deep breath, as if preparing for a storm.

—First... I want to apologize for Nabiki. She sometimes says things without thinking. She didn't mean to be disrespectful— she said with a slight blush on her cheeks.

—No problem— Nodoka replied, her professional tone intact. —But tell me, what do you want to know?

—It's about Ranma— said Kasumi. —You asked what he was like... well, there's something else you need to know. Ranma... has a curse. Like his father. He turns into a girl with cold water. I don't know if that... changes your opinion of him...

Nodoka was silent for a few seconds. Her expression was not one of surprise, but of something more complex: recognition, deep understanding, as if she had anticipated those words long before hearing them.

—I already know— she said finally. —I know about Jusenkyo. I know the legends and the facts. I've done quite a bit of research before coming.

Kasumi blinked, somewhat confused. But Nodoka continued, her voice now softer, though charged with palpable solemnity.

—I thought you wanted to talk about another topic. I suppose that since we're here, I could bring it up...

She turned slightly towards Soun, who until then had maintained an uncomfortable silence, trying to guess the reason for the conversation.

—Because a long time ago, before I was Nodoka Iori, I was Shunsui. I was a young martial artist, heir to the Iori clan. I shared many things with your wife, Soun... and also with you.

The silence in the dojo became absolute. Soun, with a hardened face, stood up abruptly, his expression completely transformed.

—You...?! You left her alone with a daughter and disappeared! We were rivals, Shunsui! You disappeared without a word! Do you know what that meant to her? To me!

—No... It's not like that— Nodoka replied calmly, though her voice had a note of pain. —That duel we lost, my doubts about who I was... my identity problems. I walked away because I felt I didn't deserve to be near you. I didn't feel worthy to be part of that story.

Kasumi covered her mouth with her hand, trembling. The doubt that had accompanied her for years began to take shape. Deep down, she already knew, but hearing it aloud was something else.

Soun, for his part, could not contain the tremor in his voice.

—I loved you, Shunsui. I never stopped waiting for you. You know that, right? But... I don't know if I can forgive you so easily.

The tension continued to float in the air. There were no screams. There were no tears. Just the weight of the truth, still incomplete, slowly falling on the shoulders of those who shared the same roof. It was as if the dojo, witness to so many fights and silences, now became a place of revelations.

Kasumi took a deep breath and spoke in a soft but firm voice:

—I never held a grudge against you, Mrs. Iori... Shunsui. And if what you say is true... I would like to talk more about all this. Maybe... later. Ranma should be arriving soon, and I think she also deserves to hear some of these truths.

Nodoka looked at her with glassy eyes, but full of respect. She nodded slowly, knowing that, for the first time in many years, someone was offering her a second chance.

—It's okay, dear— said Nodoka, with a soothing expression. —Take your time. My home will still be there for you.

—And you're right, I came here to repair many mistakes and I understand that Genma was never a good father—

The sliding door slid with a soft creak and Ranma entered the dining room, wiping her hands with a towel that hung over her shoulder. Her hair was slightly disheveled from the afternoon wind, and her cheeks still retained some of the blush from laughing during work with Ukyō.

—Sorry for the delay, Kasumi. I stayed to help a little longer than I should have— she commented naturally.

—Don't worry, Ranma. You arrived just in time— Kasumi replied with a reassuring smile.

Turning her gaze to the table, Ranma stopped dead in her tracks. The woman in the blue kimono was already sitting there, as elegant and serene as she remembered. It was the same one who had asked her for directions to Nerima a few days ago, the one who had stayed in her mind for her solemn aura and her dark red hair.

—You...— she murmured. —The lady from the afternoon...

The woman stood up gently, her eyes shining with a mixture of contained emotion and sincere warmth.

—I'm glad you still remember me— she said in a calm and soft voice. —I am Nodoka Iori. Your mother.

Ranma blinked, surprised, but did not step back. There was something in that statement that did not feel forced. As if, deep down, she already knew. There were no words at first, just a dense pause. Nodoka approached naturally and hugged her briefly, with a mixture of maternal care and years of absence squeezed into a single gesture.

Kasumi approached both of them, observing with tenderness, but without interrupting. She understood the magnitude of the moment. Ranma, without adding anything else, sat next to her mother at the table.

Dinner was served shortly after. Soun, still shocked by what he had heard in the dojo, had chosen to stay there, meditating in solitude. The atmosphere at the table was dense, but not hostile. Nodoka took care to direct the conversation with a silent authority, that of someone who had made a decision and did not need to justify it.

—Before we try to pretend that this is just any dinner, there is something I must say— Nodoka announced, placing her chopsticks carefully aside. —I have not come only to visit Ranma. I have come to do what I should have done a long time ago.

Genma, sitting on the other side of the table, visibly tensed. Although he had not spoken much since Nodoka arrived, his gaze remained alert, like that of a trapped animal.

—Genma Saotome...— Nodoka began, her tone as sharp as steel. —You were my husband. But what you did was unforgivable. You took my daughter away. You tore her from my arms, from her home, and dragged her down a path of pain, humiliation, and violence. The Neko Ken, the absurd engagements, the robberies you committed, the lives you ruined!

Each word fell like a hammer blow on the table. Nabiki and Akane remained motionless. Even Kasumi tightened her hands slightly on her lap.

—After everything I told you about my life— Nodoka continued, now standing. —About my own wounds. About how I transformed and survived. You knew what it meant to risk a child's soul! And yet you subjected Ranma to that hell!

—Don't try to speak, Genma. I'm not interested in what you have to say— she cut him off with a single gesture of her hand. —I've already gathered all the necessary information. I know every step you took. I know every lie, every broken promise. I trusted you, naively. I thought you would be a good teacher for Ranma. I thought you would be someone worthy. But you weren't!

Her voice became softer, but also more devastating.

—You not only failed as a husband. You failed as a father. What you did to Ranma was not training. It was torture. It was abandonment. It was cruelty disguised as discipline.

Genma tried to speak, but Nodoka gave him no space. The dignity in her posture, the precision of her words, made any display of authority unnecessary. She already had it.

—From this moment, you have no authority over Ranma. As leader of the Iori clan, and by dissolving any bond with you, I declare that she will be under my guardianship. From now on, she will be cared for. She will be respected. She will be treated as the person she is... and not as the failed project of a cowardly man.

Ranma looked down. Her throat was closing, but not from fear. It was a mixture of relief, gratitude... and something she didn't know she had been waiting for all her life. Nodoka, serene, simply placed a hand on hers.

The table fell silent. Not from discomfort, but from respect.

The atmosphere was still impregnated with the echo of Nodoka's words when the sliding door of the dining room opened decisively. Soun Tendo appeared in the doorway, arms crossed and a hard expression, as if every step he took had been carefully weighed.

—Have you finished what you came to do?— he asked, addressing Nodoka with a coldness that contrasted with the warmth of his usual courtesy.

The silence was immediate. Nabiki, accustomed to reading between the lines, raised an eyebrow and crossed her arms defiantly.

—Really, Dad? After everything she said, are you still going to defend Genma? Are you going to ignore things like the Neko Ken or the ridiculous commitments he got us into?— she said, with a tone full of irony.

Soun looked at her sternly, though his voice remained serene.

—It's not a matter of defending him, Nabiki. He's my friend... and my sworn brother. What he did has no justification, but it can't be erased with a single night of recriminations either. There are many things to discuss, many wounds to close... if that's still possible.

Nodoka maintained her composure, watching attentively the man who years ago was her comrade in the ways of martial arts. The weight of the words did not go unnoticed by her.

—If you really came to make amends for your mistakes— Soun continued, with a slight sigh, —then stay for a few days. Today was exhausting. We can't resolve fourteen years of wrong decisions in a single dinner.

The atmosphere was still tense, but Soun's words, despite their harshness, were not an expulsion. They were a crack in the closed door of the past. An opportunity.

Nodoka nodded serenely, without a hint of pride on her face. Only the firmness of someone who had made a decision, and who was willing to face what came with the dignity that the right path demanded.

—I will stay. Not for him— she glanced at Genma, —but for her. For Ranma. Because I don't intend to abandon my daughter again.

Kasumi exchanged a brief glance with her mother. A small gesture, almost imperceptible, but which spoke of something deeper brewing in the heart of the home.

Chapter Text

The morning air was colder than Akane expected, but she didn't complain. The street was still asleep, the sun barely hinting at its presence between the rooftops, and she ran, letting the steady rhythm of her steps silence the noise in her head a little.

It wasn't that she needed to train. It was that she needed to think.

And lately, thinking about her was becoming a problem.

Ranma.

No, Ranma-chan, as everyone was already calling her with a naturalness that Akane still found difficult.

It wasn't just the longer hair or the way she wore clothes without worrying about hiding anything. It was her voice. Her gaze. Her way of speaking. Ranma had changed. Or rather, she had stopped fighting with something that, perhaps, had always been there.

Akane clenched her fists slightly, taking a deep breath as she turned the corner of the park. Sweat began to accumulate on her nape, but she didn't slow down.

She had already accepted it, or at least she thought she had. That Ranma liked being a girl. That that curse wasn't as cursed as they had thought.

And that... she liked that. She liked her.

She closed her eyes for a moment, feeling the annoying stab in her chest. It wasn't the first time she had thought about it. But it was the first time she didn't deny it immediately.

"I'm a lesbian," she thought silently, with resignation. Not with pride, nor with anger. Just... a silent acceptance, like someone who discovers that the sky was always blue and didn't realize it.

Ranma no longer competed with her over silly things. In sports, she let her win, or cheered her on with that calm smile that didn't seem like hers... and at the same time, it did. It was as if she really saw her now. As if she no longer had to prove anything.

And that confused her even more.

"Would I like to date her...?"

The question slipped into her thoughts without asking permission. She forced herself to ignore it, as if doing so could make it disappear.

But it didn't.

And for the first time, the idea didn't seem so ridiculous to her.

When she finally returned, her breathing was more stable, but her mind wasn't. The sliding door at the entrance was open, as always at that hour. She wiped the sweat from her neck with the towel hanging around it and crossed the threshold without thinking too much.

Something was... different.

It wasn't just the aroma. Although that was the first thing she noticed: a soft, comforting smell, like miso with ginger, floating from the kitchen. It wasn't a dish that Kasumi usually prepared, at least not like that.

Akane took off her sneakers slowly, listening. What she didn't hear was even more unsettling: there was no laughter, no moving plates, not even the television on. Just silence. A silence full of something.

She peeked down the hallway and there they were.

Kasumi, in her usual apron, stirred something in a pot with a serene but tense expression. Beside her, a woman with dark red hair, tied up elegantly, cut vegetables with precise, almost ceremonial movements. There was something in her posture that radiated authority... and familiarity.

Nodoka was here, that's when Akane accepted that yesterday wasn't a dream, that Ranma would most likely leave with her. She knew she could get angry about many things, but it would never be allowed to get angry about the idea that Ranma had a mother to live with, but there she was with a lost look.

And that might not even be the most important thing from yesterday for Akane.

Last night:

The Tendo house was immersed in a dense silence, as if the air itself held its breath. The confrontation had been brief but devastating: Nodoka didn't raise her voice, but every word she said against Genma had fallen like a sword on the room. Then, without asking permission, she retired with Ranma and they closed the door to the guest room from the inside.

Kasumi had waited a couple of hours. Only when she was sure there would be no more shouting or blows did she ask her sisters to meet in the kitchen.

The tea was ready on the table when Akane and Nabiki arrived, still with tension on their faces. Nabiki crossed her arms, Akane seemed restless. Kasumi, on the other hand, was strangely serene. Tired, but clear.

—Thank you for coming —she said as she sat down—. I don't want tomorrow to take us by surprise. We can no longer pretend this isn't happening.

Akane looked up.

—You mean Ranma...? And her mom?

Kasumi nodded.

—Nodoka has already decided to stay tonight. And although she hasn't said anything openly... it's clear she doesn't want Ranma to stay here. Father didn't contradict her. Not once.

—That was weird —Nabiki interjected dryly—. Soun almost seemed... frustrated.

—He is —Kasumi replied without hesitation—. He may not say it out loud, but he's resigned. For him, Ranma was a burden since Nodoka claimed Ranma as her daughter, a failed bet that no longer makes sense to hold on to. So... the engagements will most likely be canceled tomorrow.

Akane looked down. Although she already sensed it, hearing it out loud made something stir in her chest.

—And what does that mean for Ranma? —she asked after a moment.

Kasumi hesitated for a second, before answering carefully:

—It means she's going to need a new home. And protection. Nodoka is not just anyone.

Nabiki narrowed her eyes.

—What do you know about her?

Kasumi took her cup, held it for a moment as if to give herself strength, and spoke.

—Her name was Sunshui. She was raised as the heir to the Iori clan, one of the oldest in traditional martial arts. She wasn't just a fighter. She was a symbol, an instrument of power and status. But she rebelled against all that and disappeared. She changed her name, her life... she had a daughter.

Akane blinked.

—Daughter?? Ranma was born in the middle of all that?

—No.

—Ranma has a sister? —Nabiki asked in astonishment, imagining opportunities and resources behind that revelation.

Kasumi smiled sadly, placing the cup on the table gently.

—Yes. Her name is Kasumi. And it's me.

The silence that followed was different. Not tense, but profound. Akane opened her mouth, but couldn't find words. Nabiki remained motionless, for once without a ready answer.

Kasumi held their gazes with painful calm.

—I'm not sure what will come. But I want to make sure Ranma has something. A place, a bond, something more than the remains of a broken promise. I have you and I wouldn't change you for anything, but it's true that I also see Ranma as another sister and I want to make sure she has someone like a mother in her life.

—wait wait wait— nabiki said in a surprised tone— since when did you know this?

—our mother left me a letter explaining who my biological father was, she never resented him, she said he was a very warm person who was just confused, that's why I also want to give her a chance—

The night continued in silence. But nothing was the same as before.

Breakfast was a silent choreography. No one raised their voice too much. Nodoka and Kasumi shared the kitchen. Akane barely touched her food. Nabiki observed everyone with calculating eyes.

When the table was cleared, Akane stood up abruptly, her fists clenched. She went upstairs without saying a word and locked herself in her room, slamming the door shut. Rage boiled inside her, confused, tangled with sadness and something else she couldn't name.

She felt betrayed. Not by Ranma, not even by Nodoka, but by Kasumi. Her sister, always so calm, was now willing to talk to the woman who had disappeared for years, who had abandoned her mother, her family. How could she do it so easily? How could she see her without it hurting?

Meanwhile, Nabiki was already in her room, turning on the laptop. She typed names, checked databases, and then took out her phone to dial a familiar number.

—Tatewaki? I need to talk to you. It's about someone who calls herself Nodoka... or maybe you know the Iori surname.

Downstairs, Kasumi dried her hands and turned to Nodoka. For a moment she said nothing, but finally, in a soft, almost vulnerable tone, she asked:

—Would you like to go out for coffee with me?

Nodoka looked at her in silence. She nodded slightly, without words, as if she understood the true weight of that invitation.

They both headed for the entrance, leaving the Tendo house immersed again in its usual, dense silence.

The rain fell softly on the lanterns of the traditional district. The drops pattered on the tiles and black tiled roofs as if marking the beat of a conversation that had not yet begun. Kasumi walked under her white lace umbrella, with elegant but somewhat tense steps. Her gaze was serene, but her thoughts went far, intertwined with memories, doubts and an unnameable longing. Beside her, Nodoka held her own calmly, wearing a discreet but well-cared-for kimono, pale lavender with barely visible floral embroidery. The air smelled of wet earth, aged wood and something else: the possibility of finally speaking without the pressure of the Tendo surname, without the shadow of filial duty or the immediate past.

They entered a small traditional cafe, dark wood and the aroma of freshly prepared matcha. The interior was quiet, with dim lighting that accentuated the intimate atmosphere of the place. A waitress guided them to a low table by the window, from where they could see the interior garden with its tranquil pond, the koi fish gliding between the stones and the mechanical bamboo that struck rhythmically, marking the passage of time.

Kasumi waited for the tea to be served before speaking. She held the hot cup between her hands, as if she needed physical warmth to be able to enter the emotional terrain. Nodoka, for her part, looked at everything with a silent tenderness, as if every corner of the place brought her memories that she didn't know whether to treasure or fear. She seemed like someone who had lived too much, and yet had not stopped finding beauty in small things.

—Where do you live now? —Kasumi asked, with a mixture of curiosity and caution, trying to break the tension with a simple but genuine question.

Nodoka smiled, grateful for the simple start.

—In a quiet residence, on the other side of Tokyo. About three hours from here, if traffic doesn't play against us —she replied as she adjusted her cup—. It's a quiet place... maybe too quiet. But it's mine. It helps me think. It has a small garden and a well-stocked library. Sometimes, when I feel lonely, I play the shamisen. Although I'm not as good as before.

Kasumi nodded, imagining that landscape. Her gaze drifted to the garden for a moment, then returned to Nodoka with a warmer interest.

—And you, Kasumi? —Nodoka asked, in a soft, maternal tone—. What has your life been like? What do you want to do now that you're an adult?

Kasumi blinked, surprised by the direct question, so uncommon in her environment. She took a few seconds to answer, weighing her words.

—I have lived to care —she finally said—. For my sisters, for the house, for others. I don't regret it, but sometimes I feel like... I still don't know who I am beyond that. Although lately I've been thinking about studying traditional medicine, or nursing. Something that allows me to heal, but also to choose. I like to take care... but I want that decision to be mine.

Nodoka looked at her with a silent glow of pride in her eyes, a sincere gesture of approval.

—Your mother would be so proud of you... and so am I. Not for what you do, but for the woman you are. Strong. Honest. With a sweetness that is not weakness, but well-carried courage. Himiko said that true sweetness was a form of strength... and you remind me so much of her.

Kasumi looked down, touched by those words. There was a brief silence before she broke it herself, as if those emotions had unlocked something deeper.

—And Ranma? What do you think of... of everything that's happening to her?

Nodoka sighed, with a mixture of regret and tenderness. Her fingers caressed the edge of the cup with an involuntary gesture.

—Ranma is like a mirror of the self I was. A girl who has been pushed all her life to fulfill a role she didn't choose. Every time I see her avoid her reflection or hide her smiles, I remember my own days in front of the dojo... pretending everything was fine. But it's not. I know she takes refuge in denial because it was the only thing she learned to survive. And yet... even so, when she smiles being herself, there is a light that reminds me of what I thought I had lost.

Kasumi nodded with gentle seriousness.

—She has come to talk to me many times —she admitted softly—. She never said it outright, but she vented. She told me about the fights, how they treated her, how tired she was of being seen as something she didn't feel was hers. I always thought that if she didn't have the words... at least I could offer her a space. A safe corner, even if it was brief.

Nodoka nodded moved, her eyes somewhat moist.

—And it shows. Because when Ranma talks to you, it's as if she can finally lower her shoulders. As if she remembers that she is alive... not just resisting. I failed her... but you gave her something she didn't even know she needed. That is not forgotten, Kasumi.

Kasumi stared at her cup for a long moment. Then, she looked up with a firmer but also more vulnerable expression.

—If you allow me... I also want to take your word. I would like to know you as my other mother. Not only for what you lived with Himiko... but because I want to understand why she fell in love with you. I want you to teach me who you were... and who you are now.

Nodoka's eyes filled with tears, but this time not of sadness, but of gratitude and amazement. Her hand trembled a little when she took Kasumi's on the table.

—Kasumi... thank you. You don't know how much that means to me. I thought I had lost everything... and now, you offer me something that I didn't even know I could have.

Outside, the rain continued to fall, but inside the cafe, there was only warmth, soft words... and the seed of something new that was beginning to bloom, slowly but surely, between mother and daughter.

The teacups were already empty, and on the table rested small plates with remnants of traditional sweets. The rain had subsided outside, but inside the cafe a denser, intimate tranquility had settled. Nodoka and Kasumi no longer sat tense; their shoulders were relaxed, and their gazes were more open, softer.

—Tonight I want it to be calm —Nodoka said as she watched the movement of a spoon on the table—. I don't want more tensions for Ranma. She... deserves an environment where she can breathe, where she doesn't have to be on the defensive every second.

Kasumi nodded slowly.

—It would do her good. These last few days... she has changed. Sometimes she smiles without guilt. And I know she's still scared, but you can also tell when she starts to imagine that maybe... she could be happy.

Nodoka looked at her with a mixture of pride and tenderness.

—I'm considering her moving in with me when the school year ends. I have the resources, the space... and most importantly, the will to do well what I left half-done before. But I don't want to rush her. I don't want to impose anything else on her life.

—And until then...?

—I'm counting on you, Kasumi —Nodoka replied, with a warmth that made her sound more motherly than ever—. I know you have been her refuge. If she decides to stay for a few more months here, I know she will be safe with you nearby. And if she needs anything... I want you to be my eyes, my hands, my presence, if I can't be there.

Kasumi bit her lip for a moment, moved.

—I will. Not only for you, but for her. Because she deserves it... and because I love her very much.

There was a soft, comfortable silence. Then Kasumi tilted her head, thoughtfully.

—And what about Nabiki and Akane? They are also Himiko's daughters. I know it won't be easy... but maybe someday...

—I have no intention of forcing friendship with them —Nodoka replied, this time with more seriousness, but without losing her sweetness—. But if at any point they want to know more, if they decide to approach, I will be here. I don't plan to run away ever again. And I'm not going to hide from who I was.

—they will surely hate me for what you said last night.—

—I assure you they won't.... they may not take it well but sooner or later they will lose any resentment, in the end we all love mother very much—

Kasumi was satisfied with that answer. Then, as if remembering an old annoyance, she murmured:

—And Ranma's engagements? The mess Genma left?

Nodoka let out a small sigh that turned into a sly, more relaxed smile.

—I'm already working on canceling them all. Thanks to the Iori surname and some old acquaintances, I can move more than they imagine. Ranma doesn't need to be tied to pacts that were made on her back without her voice or consent.

—And the dojo?

—The dojo is at risk... but we can also fix that. I don't want to destroy what you have built, Kasumi. But I'm not going to allow blackmail, guilt and lies to decide Ranma's fate anymore.

Kasumi looked at her with moist eyes, but not from sadness. It was a mixture of relief, hope... and love.

—I'm glad to know that Ranma has you. That we have you.

Nodoka extended her hand across the table and took hers.

—Thank you for letting me have you too.

Kasumi inside herself melting from the feeling, —I had forgotten what it's like to be pampered— she murmured to herself

And so, between the steam of the last tea served and the distant murmur of the drying city, two women who had shared a common love, and now a family, began to weave something new. Something that didn't look like the past. Something better.

It was night when Ranma arrived at the okonomiyaki restaurant. The streets still glistened from the recent rain, and the air was cool, as if the whole city was preparing for something new. The Ucchan's sign shone softly under the mist, welcoming, giving it a warm air in the middle of the mild weather.

As soon as she pushed the sliding door, a voice burst from inside.

—Ran-chan!

Ukyo, who was at the back of the restaurant talking to two of her assistants, ran to the entrance. Behind her, one of the boys held up a thick manila paper envelope, clearly upset by its contents.

—Hey! Does this have to do with you?! What the hell happened?!

—Huh?

Ukyo let out an incredulous and agitated laugh.

—We got a letter this morning, along with cash compensation! A ridiculous amount of yen! It's signed by someone from the Iori family. It says it's a reparation for the damages your dad caused... Finally someone realized!

Ranma froze for a second, looking at the three of them with a look of not knowing whether to laugh or run away.

—Ah... yes. That... was my mom.

—YOUR WHAT!?

—Yes. I met my mother a couple of days ago. She is... very different from Genma. She is part of the Iori family, and she is trying to clean up all the mess he left behind.

Ukyo blinked, speechless. The assistants looked at each other, not understanding if they were listening to a dorama scene or a historical revelation.

—Take a break —Ukyo finally said, taking Ranma to the bar—. I have to hear this properly.

Konatsu appeared from the kitchen with a tray in her hand, but when she saw Ranma, her jaw dropped.

—Ranma-sama! Are you okay? What a surprise to see you here!

—I'm better than I've been in a long time —Ranma said with a sincere smile.

Ukyo served her hot tea without asking, still with a mixture of incredulity and excitement.

—So... your mom appeared out of nowhere, scolded Genma and is now sending money to everyone he ruined?

—More or less —Ranma said, shrugging—. She also has a... complicated story. But she is strong. And she treats me well. Much better than I imagined possible.

Ukyo held her gaze for a long second. There was tenderness, but also a hint of pride.

—And how are you?

Ranma sighed. Not like someone who gives up, but like someone who, finally, can let go of the weight.

—I'm thinking of moving in with her when the year ends. I don't want to stay in that house anymore. Not with Genma. Not with... all that. I want to try something else. Try being me.

Ukyo tilted her head a little, her voice softening.

—And what does that mean to you?

Ranma played with the edge of her cup before answering.

—It means that... maybe I'm like her. I also have this curse, but... I don't feel it as a punishment anymore. Without the stupid panda criticizing me, in these days that she has been there not a word. It even seems like a monk possessed him. It's the first time in a long time that I feel like I can breathe.

Konatsu sat discreetly on the other side of the counter.

—I'm glad to hear that. I have always thought that you had a very strong... but also sensitive spirit. You deserve to be at peace.

Ranma gave her a warm and grateful look.

—Thank you, Konatsu. It means a lot to me that you say that.

Ukyo rested her elbows on the bar, with a somewhat mischievous smile.

—Hey, Ran-chan... between all this you're telling me, does that mean that your challenge to spend a month as a girl is going to be extended a little longer?

Ranma laughed softly, looking down.

—Ugh... probably. I'm getting more and more curious. More eager to experience all this... my way. Without guilt.

Ukyo was silent for a second, as if debating internally whether she should say something else. Finally, she took a nervous breath.

—So... would you like to come with me to a group? It's an LGBT space, quite calm. I... well, I've also been dealing with some things. Sometimes I feel more boy than girl. Or... I don't know. I'm trying to understand myself. I thought maybe you could come. We could go together, or together. Or whatever.

Ranma looked at her surprised, with wide eyes and her mouth slightly open, as if she didn't expect to hear those words from Ukyo at all.

—Really? —she asked, leaning forward a little—. Do you want me to call you by another name? Is there a name you prefer? Have you thought about it yet?

Ukyo nodded with a shy smile, looking at her.

—I'm not clear yet, but... when I know, I'll tell you. I'm not ready to change everything yet, but talking about it like this makes me feel less alone.

Ranma was silent for a second, processing everything, and then a genuine smile spread across her face.

—Wow, Ukyo... I didn't know you were going through that. But I'm glad you tell me. It's like... I don't know, like I'm not so alone in this. It makes me happy that you trust me.

Her voice trembled a little, but it was a tremor of relief, of connection. The spark in her eyes now burned with warmth.

—I could accompany you if you want —Konatsu added, smiling tenderly—. It would be nice to share that space. And maybe learn a little more about myself too.

Ranma smiled, this time with a new emotion. A mixture of nerves, tenderness and a hint of hope.

—Yes. I like the idea. Maybe it's not just a challenge anymore. Maybe it's something I needed a long time ago and that I can finally embrace.

Outside, it began to drizzle again. But this time, it didn't bother Ranma. Because for the first time in a long time, she felt truly seen.

And accompanied.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

[Interior – Kasumi/Ranma's Room – Night]

Ranma is lying on her back, her hair loose, staring at the ceiling. The warm light from a lamp barely illuminates the room while the sounds of the night can be heard outside. Her voice is heard in an internal monologue, as if she were thinking out loud.

I never thought sleeping peacefully would feel so... weird. Not a bucket of cold water to wake up. Not a kick to fall off the roof. Just... the alarm. Sometimes Kasumi wakes me up with a tap on the door and a "breakfast is ready, Ranma-chan~".

And Genma... well, Genma is still Genma. He tries to steal the tamagoyaki from my plate, as if he doesn't notice that I now know how to use chopsticks as a weapon. Just by giving him a dirty look, he gives up.

We haven't talked about what happened last week. About what he said...

But everyone notices. He treats me with that weird indifference that's like saying "I care but I don't know how". And yet, every morning, he says the same old thing: "You must become stronger".

Although now it sounds more like: "Don't lose what you've gained".

Kasumi taught me how to take care of myself at night. Face wash, moisturizer, hairbrush, loose braid for sleeping. At first it seemed silly... Now I find it hard to sleep without doing it. It's been three weeks since I started this "bet".

Three weeks and they still ask me at school when I'm going back to being "the new boy".

I smile, scratch my head, and say the same old story: "Ah, I don't know, curse stuff, hahaha~" Although deep down, I know. There's no turning back. I don't want there to be.

And as for Mom... Now I understand Akane, Nabiki, and Kasumi.

If I were to lose her... it would simply devastate me. It would leave a mark on me. And she's only been with me for a week.

She treats me so well... I still don't understand how that stupid panda was able to do all that to me, knowing that Mom also fell into those cursed springs.

A few days ago we went out together for coffee. Just to talk and have something quiet... And suddenly, my world expanded all at once. She asked me to improve my grades.

To think about what I want to do with my life. About my hobbies. She even gave me a cell phone, just to keep an eye on me.

The next day she accompanied me to school to update my data. "Iori Ranma," they said. What's not so cool is that now I have to wear the official uniform... Yes, that uniform.

And now... Damn it, I can't sleep! Tomorrow after school, Mom asked Kasumi that the three of us go out. What am I supposed to do!?

What do you do on a family outing? It's great to go out with her again... but I keep thinking about what they're going to do. What they've been planning. Kasumi was alone with Mom... who knows what they were doing. And on top of that, at dinner today, Kasumi said that the more she gets to know her, the better person she seems. She said it with an expression... One of those that dazzle you. That make you think: "is this really my family?"

A soft "ping" of notification sounds on Ranma's cell phone: a message from Sayuri saying "don't forget about lunch tomorrow~!" <3333333.]

Screw it, I'm tired, shut up brain, I want to sleep.

Friday, May 23rd, Furinkan Institute

—Iori-san? —Hinako-sensei's voice sounded from the classroom doorway, just as Ranma was putting her notebook into her backpack—. Could you come with me for a moment? I'd like to talk to you... in private.

Ranma hesitated for a second, but ended up nodding. She already had an idea of what it was about.

The teacher led her through one of the quiet corridors to a small room next to the teachers' room. It was a cozy place, but Ranma still didn't know if that was good or bad.

—You can sit down —Hinako said in her usual kind tone.

Ranma obeyed, leaving her backpack aside.

—First, I want to say that I'm glad to see your progress in class. You've improved a lot, both in participation and discipline. You even take notes —she added with a slight smile.

—Kasumi watches me at night. She catches me if I get distracted —Ranma admitted, rolling her eyes.

Hinako laughed softly, but her tone soon changed, more serious.

—Now, there are a couple of issues we need to review, for school matters. Technicalities, more than anything else.

—...Technicalities?

—You've been attending as a girl for a whole month. Which is fine —she clarified immediately—, not a complaint. But since your official record still registers you as a male student, certain confusions are arising that we need to address.

Ranma frowned, a bit defensive.

—Like what?

—For example, the use of the changing rooms. Since you started this period, you've been asking for permission to change in the infirmary. And you haven't set foot in the boys' changing room again.

Ranma crossed her arms.

—I can't go there. It was already hell before. Boys trying to throw water at me to see what would happen, making jokes or... worse things. Now that I'm like this all day, I don't want to know how they'd react.

—I understand. I don't want you to go back to a place where you feel unsafe —Hinako said seriously.

—But I can't go to the girls' either —Ranma added quickly—. They'd kill me right there. Literally. And I have no desire to die in a changing room that smells like fruit shampoo.

Hinako let out a soft laugh, but soon got back to the point.

—About that last thing... well, a situation arose. One of your classmates approached the office to comment on your participation in sports only with the girls' group.

Ranma's eyes widened, surprised.

—Someone complained?

—Not exactly. It was more of an observation. Some girls seem happy with your presence... others not so much. And since you're fully participating in the female group in physical activities, if this is going to continue, it would be good if you consider integrating more with them. Carefully, of course. But... if you're going to stay like this permanently, adaptation will be inevitable.

—Adapt... to the changing rooms?

—I'm not saying you have to do it now —Hinako assured her—. But I do want you to start thinking about it. The decisions you make now will affect how you get along here for the rest of the course. Sooner or later, all this will have to be adjusted in your file as well.

Ranma looked aside, thoughtful. She swallowed.

—I know... it's just that... I still find it hard to say it out loud.

—You don't have to do it yet —Hinako said calmly—. But when you do, make sure it's for you. Not for what others expect. Is that okay?

—Yes... thanks, teacher.

The teacher nodded and, just as Ranma was about to leave, she added in a somewhat more informal tone:

—Oh, and before you go... there's something else.

Ranma turned around curiously.

—Huh?

—Your mother contacted me yesterday. She was quite direct —she said with a nervous smile, as if she still hadn't finished processing it—. Apparently she's worried about your grades. She told me she wants to make sure you make the most of the rest of the school year.

Ranma grimaced.

—And what exactly did she say?

—That she'll pay me for extra classes with you. Private tutoring. Starting this Saturday afternoon. At my apartment.

—Really? You're going to teach me?

—I need the money, and your mother is very convincing —she replied with a small laugh.

Ranma looked at her with narrowed eyes.

—Did she convince you or intimidate you?

Hinako put a finger to her chin, thoughtfully.

—A little of both. It was a very kind conversation, but at the same time I felt that if I refused... something in my life would break. I don't know how to explain it.

—Yeah, sounds like Mom —Ranma murmured with resignation, but also with a small smile of pride.

—So, is that okay with you? They won't be formal classes, just quiet reviews. We can review your homework, your doubts... and if you want to talk about other things, I'll be there to listen too.

Ranma nodded more confidently this time.

—Okay. Just... promise me you won't have any hidden sweets. I know you use them to transform.

Hinako let out a sincere laugh.

—Promised. Although I don't guarantee I won't have cupcakes. They're my weakness.

—Sounds like a fair deal —Ranma replied, raising an eyebrow.

Hinako walked to the door and opened it to let her out.

—See you on Saturday then. And good luck surviving Sayuri and Yuka.

Ranma sighed, adjusting her backpack.

—At this point, they scare me more than any of Genma's training.

—That's worrying —Hinako joked, watching her leave.

And with that, Ranma left the corridor, a little lighter, although now with another commitment on her shoulders. One that, for some reason, didn't seem so bad to her.

Lunch on the terrace had become an unofficial tradition of the group, especially since Ranma started spending her breaks there. Yuka and Sayuri had arrived first, chatting while distributing the bentos they had brought. Hikori sat down with his typical carefree air, while Daisuke took out his food box with an expression of concentration.

—Hey, do you guys think Ranma is an egg? —Sayuri blurted out of nowhere, in the most casual tone in the world.

—An egg— what? —Daisuke repeated, confused and offended.

—Yeah, you know, someone trans who hasn't hatched yet —Yuka explained with a mischievous smile—. Because let's be honest, Ranma has been a girl for a whole month, with a uniform, hairstyles, even her voice is changing a bit. She doesn't growl when she talks anymore.

—That's because she's happier, not because she's trans —Daisuke replied, pointing at his onigiri decisively as if it were an argument.

—Aw, poor Daisuke still thinks Ranma is going back to being "the tough guy in the class"? —Hikori mocked.

—Dude, accept it, since Ranma doesn't have to worry about her hyper-masculinity from her father, she's been super happy—

—That's not it! —he replied, red as a tomato—. I'm just saying... that she might be going through something weird. What if she's just getting used to it? It doesn't mean she's trans.

Sayuri leaned over the table, resting her chin on her hand.

—And then why hasn't she changed back even once? And why did she agree to wear the girls' uniform? And why does she sit with us in sports? And why does she smell so good lately?

—She smells good? —Hikori repeated, raising an eyebrow.

—Raspberry shampoo. Confirmed. I can smell it from two desks away —Yuka said like a detective.

—That doesn't prove anything —Daisuke muttered, arms crossed.

—Maybe not —Sayuri said, smiling—. But the real question isn't whether Ranma is an egg... it's when she's going to hatch. Because she's been hitting it from the inside for days.

Akane had been silent until then, stirring her food without looking up. Hearing that, she gave a very slight smile, but said nothing. For her, Ranma had already hatched a long time ago, at least for her, maybe Kasumi also has that direct confession.

—And what do you think, Akane? —Yuka asked with a discreet nudge.

—I... I just think everyone has their own pace —she replied calmly, although her eyes shone with a warmth that was hard to hide.

Just then, footsteps were heard approaching.

—You're talking about me again, aren't you?! —Ranma shouted from a few meters away, tray in hand and an eyebrow raised.

The group let out muffled laughter and settled down as if nothing was happening.

—Us? Never! —Sayuri said, smiling like a saint.

—We were just talking about... shampoo —Yuka added, taking a bite of her rice.

—It smells like raspberry by the way —Hikori commented with a straight face.

Ranma stood still, frowning.

—...I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that.

—Good choice —Akane replied, moving aside for her to sit next to her.

Ranma sat down with a sigh, placing the tray on the table.

—I was late because Hinako-sensei stopped me —she said, stirring the rice with her chopsticks—. She wants me to have extra review classes... now it turns out I have to go to her apartment on Saturday afternoon.

Everyone looked at her at the same time.

—Hinako's apartment? —Hikori asked with narrowed eyes—. That sounds... suspicious.

—Don't be an idiot! —Ranma threw a croquette at him without thinking.

—Ouch! I was kidding! Well, half kidding...

—It's not weird —Akane intervened, although she wasn't looking at anyone in particular—. Hinako-sensei usually gives private lessons if parents ask. Mom offered me that too when my grades dropped.

—Exactly —Ranma said, pointing with her chopsticks like a sword—. And besides, she's paying for everything. So, if I can get better grades and have peace at home, then...

—Hmmmm... speaking of Hinako —Sayuri interrupted with a mischievous tone—. It turns out I was the one who told her about you in sports class.

Ranma narrowed her eyes.

—You what?

—Relax, relax —Sayuri said, raising her hands as if calming a wild cat—. I just mentioned that it was weird that you didn't shower with anyone and that you always ended up changing in the infirmary. So we made a deal.

—...What kind of deal? —Ranma asked, doubtful.

—You can use our changing room and bathroom, the girls' —Yuka said seriously—. But there are conditions.

—Obviously —Sayuri added, raising a finger as if dictating a sacred law—. Zero comments, zero weird looks, no "hey, that doesn't go there!" or anything like that. Just go in, change, shower if you want, and that's it. No drama.

Ranma looked at her with a "are you seriously offering me this so calmly?" face.

—And you guys think that's going to go well? —she finally replied—. Do you know what used to happen to me when I went into the boys' changing rooms? They threw cold water at me on purpose! They tried to spy on me like I was a circus attraction!

—And now it's no different —Hikori muttered, and everyone silenced him with a look.

—We're not forcing you, Ranma —Akane said softly—. But... if you're going to stay like this, it's better to find a space where you can feel safe.

—...And what did the other girls say? —Ranma asked cautiously.

—Some excited, others jealous, others confused —Yuka replied—. But none said no as long as you didn't get out of line. And we've already made that clear.

Ranma crossed her arms, thoughtful.

—I guess... if I behave, nothing will happen —she finally said, although her expression wasn't convinced, but resigned.

—That's what Hinako-sensei said too —Sayuri added with a smile—. "If it's going to be like this forever, she better learn to integrate well."

—"Forever" is a very heavy phrase —Ranma grumbled, looking down at her rice.

Akane looked at her with a soft expression. She said nothing, but smiled, barely.

—So... —Yuka said mischievously—, who wants to bet how long it takes Ranma to have her first drama club inside the changing room?

—Yuka!! —Ranma and Sayuri shouted at the same time.

—I was kidding! Kidding! ...More or less.

And so, between laughter, bets, and promises, lunch continued. Although Ranma tried to keep her composure, she knew that deep down... it was nice to have someone making space for her, even if it meant sharing a shower.

Ranma peeked into the changing room with a shyness disguised as confidence.

Just before entering, she heard light footsteps. It was Nijima, the class representative, with her usual folder and an expression between serious and nervous.

—Saotome—she called in a somewhat restrained tone.

—Iori, by the way —she interrupted without turning around—. What's up?

—I just wanted to make sure that... well, that everything was okay with the deal we made with Sayuri.

—The one about me not saying anything and not looking at anyone? —Ranma said with a raised eyebrow.

—That's right —Nijima nodded—. And that you don't say anything about Mayu, please.

—Who's Mayu? —she asked with genuine confusion.

—Exactly —Nijima replied, serious, before letting out a sigh and looking at the hot water thermos Ranma had brought with her—. Can I...? Just to check.

Ranma held it with both hands and showed her the open lid. The warm steam was still coming out weakly.

—It's sealed. Don't worry, I'm not going to transform by accident or cause problems.

—Understood —Nijima said, lowering her guard a little.

Ranma carefully pushed the door to the girls' changing room, making sure to keep her head down.

—Sorry... —she murmured without looking up.

There were no screams. No mocking laughter. Just normal conversations, as if her presence didn't break any invisible rule.

With tense steps, she located the emptiest corner and slid towards a free locker, hoping to become invisible. She changed without looking at anyone, without reflecting in anything. She just wanted to shower, rinse off the discomfort, and leave as soon as possible.

She stepped under the shower. The cold water ran down her body like a touchless rain. She rested her forehead against the tile wall, closing her eyes, seeking comfort in the monotony of the water.

—I don't belong here... —she whispered.

And then, a voice broke the balance:

—Wow, I always wondered if the carpet matched the curtains.

The world stopped.

Ranma froze. The water kept falling, but she couldn't feel it.

"Did they say that about me? No... yes. Who else? Were they looking at me? Did they see me? Since when?"

—Sa-chan! —Nijima shouted from the back—. No commenting goes both ways!

—I'm sorry...! —the girl replied, subdued, as if she wasn't aware of what she had just unleashed.

But it was too late.

Ranma's heart was beating so hard that her chest hurt. The steam turned to fog. The wall moved away. The air... wouldn't come in. Each breath was short, quick, insufficient.

She couldn't move.

She couldn't think.

She couldn't escape.

She began to hyperventilate, her fingers trembled, her vision filled with black dots. The sound of the water became a distant buzz. She staggered, tried to hold on to the wall, but her legs didn't respond.

—No... no... please no... —she murmured, barely a thread of voice.

And then, without a scream, without a drama, she simply fell.

The dull thud of her body against the shower floor was lost in the murmur of the open faucets and the confused exclamations that began to arise.

—Iori! —Nijima shouted, running towards the shower.

Ranma didn't hear her anymore. Everything had gone blank.

The smell of disinfectant still stung her nose when she opened her eyes. Ranma blinked several times, dazed, until a familiar figure brought her clarity.

—Nijima? —she murmured, her throat dry.

—You fainted in the showers —the girl replied, without drama, without mockery—. Sayuri and I brought you here. You were completely gone, like you couldn't breathe.

Ranma tried to sit up, but a slight dizziness forced her to stay lying down.

—I'm sorry...

—Was it because of the comment? Or was it everything together? —Nijima asked, with a calm that wasn't cold, but considerate.

Ranma looked down, narrowing her eyes.

—It wasn't just the comment... It was everything. The pressure, the looks, the feeling that I don't fit in. I want to be there, you know? I don't want to go back to the boys' changing room. It was torture there. They threw water at me, bothered me... they even tried to touch me. But in the girls'... it's like something's going to explode at any moment.

Nijima nodded in silence. She didn't seem surprised.

—I didn't want to put you in a difficult situation. I assumed that with clear conditions you could enter more calmly, but I don't think I measured the weight you were already carrying well.

—It's not your fault —Ranma closed her eyes for a few seconds—. It's me. I'm... tired of pretending.

—Pretending what?

A silence crept between them. Ranma took a few seconds to take a deep breath. Then she opened her eyes again, looking at her head-on, with some fear, but without backing down.

—I'm a girl, Nijima. Not just because of the curse. It's not just magic. I found out recently, or maybe I always knew, I just... they didn't let me say it out loud. Kasumi knows. Akane too. My mom... probably too, but I haven't told her directly.

—And the rest?

Ranma gave a tired smile.

—For everyone else I'm still that mess of a boy who pretended to be. The one who made bad jokes, the one who shouted, the one who hit things. The one who never fit in on either side. And now... I'm trying to get out, but I don't know how to go from here.

Nijima didn't respond immediately. She just got up from the chair and walked to the window, thoughtful. Then, without looking at her yet, she said:

—You should talk to Mayu.

—Mayu? The one who avoided me? Weren't you the one who told me not to approach her?

—And I was right. Because you're loud and clumsy with words —she said with a half-smile over her shoulder—. But I think she could help you more than you think.

—Why?

—Just... trust me. I won't tell you now. But talk to her —she replied, now returning to the side of the stretcher—. And for what it's worth, you're on the right track, Ranma. Leaving aside the small detail of the fainting, I think you can continue to use the changing room without problem.

Ranma let out a small laugh, surprised.

—Was that a compliment?

—Consider it a performance review —Nijima said, taking her bag to leave. At the door, she turned and winked at her—. See you later, Iori-chan.

Ranma covered her face with the pillow, halfway between embarrassed and delighted.

Maybe everything wasn't so bad.

Chapter Text

The courtyard clock read 5:17. Most clubs had already started or finished their activities, and the gym seemed asleep under the long shadow of the main building. Ranma walked with a bottle of cold tea in her hand, kicking pebbles, not really looking where she was going. It was clear that her mind was elsewhere, trapped between unresolved thoughts and confused emotions that she didn't know how to put into words.

She saw her. Sitting alone on the gym steps, looking at her cell phone. Legs crossed, neutral expression, as if she were waiting for something... or someone. The uniform fit her impeccably, and her posture was calm, as if she were disconnected from the world. Mayu seemed immune to the noise, the afternoon heat, everything. That intimidated Ranma a little.

Ranma swallowed and, before giving herself time to think too much, she changed her course straight towards her. With each step, her heart beat a little faster.

—Hey.

Mayu barely looked up. She didn't say anything.

Ranma raised the tea bottle as if it were a valid excuse.

—Want some tea? It's cold. It's peach. Not bad.

Mayu looked at her emotionlessly. A pause. Then, a slight shrug.

—I don't like peach.

—Oh. Well. I brought two anyway. —Ranma sat next to her, without asking permission—. Just in case.

Silence.

Ranma tapped her fingers on her bottle. She was looking for something to say, but her head seemed like a swarm of bees. Part of her wanted to run away, but another part needed to stay. She felt it in her chest.

—Did you know the gym has leaks in the roof? Like, in the storage part. The janitor told me. He said he almost got his whole kendo uniform wet once.

Mayu slowly turned her head to look at her.

—Ranma.

—Yeah?

—What are you doing?

—...Nothing. Well, yeah, something.

—Why are you here?

Ranma looked down.

—Because I'm afraid to talk directly —she confessed in a low voice—. And because I didn't know if you'd want to listen to me. I thought if I started with something stupid... maybe it would be easier.

Mayu sighed and closed her cell phone.

—Do you know why they sent me to talk to you?

—...Why?

—Because I'm trans.

Ranma blinked, surprised. She opened her mouth and then closed it. She felt the world stop for a second.

—And because, supposedly, I can understand you —Mayu continued—. Although to be honest, I don't particularly like you.

That did hurt a little. Ranma shifted uncomfortably.

—Why?

—Because you're sexist —she replied bluntly—. Always talking about how "girls are weak" or "boys are like this" or "this is not a man's thing". You never stopped to think about what all that means to someone like me. So... explain yourself.

Ranma looked down. She squeezed the bottle harder than necessary.

—It wasn't with bad intentions —she said—. It's just that... that's what I was taught. That you had to be strong. That being a woman was... something that happened to you as punishment. As something to overcome. And I hated it, at first. Because it made me feel weak. It made me feel ashamed.

—And now?

—Now... it's different. I don't hate what I am. I hate that I took so long to realize. To give myself permission to accept it. I always knew something was wrong. That there was a part of me that didn't fit with being "a real man". But I didn't know what to call it. I just felt guilty all the time.

Mayu was quiet for a moment, watching her. Her eyes weren't cold, but they weren't easy either.

—So what are you then?

Ranma finally looked her in the eyes.

—I'm a girl.

Another pause. Shorter. But this time, more intense.

—And what does that mean to you?

—That I want to be able to breathe without it hurting. That I want to exist without feeling like I have to prove anything to anyone. That I don't want to hide anymore... even though I still don't know how not to. That I'm afraid to be myself, but I'm more afraid not to try to be.

Mayu narrowed her eyes. Then she nodded, barely.

—Who knows?

—Kasumi. Akane. Nijima. And my mom knows too... although I didn't tell her directly. She just... understands. But for the rest of the school I'm still that mess of a boy who pretended to be. I have no idea how to change that without everything exploding.

Mayu looked aside, thoughtful. Then she spoke in a neutral voice.

—You're an idiot, but not a bad one. And you're trying. Although if you're going to keep using the girls' changing room, I recommend you stop fainting.

—It wasn't my intention... —Ranma murmured, lowering her head.

—I know. But it gives a bad image. And even if no one says it, they're all waiting for you to screw up. Me included.

Ranma nodded, pressing her lips together.

Mayu stood up, stretching her arms.

—I'm not going to tell you how to live your life. But if you want to talk... really... you can come. No beating around the bush. Just you. Not Ranma the walking joke. You.

Ranma stood up with her, and for a second, she hesitated. Then she looked her in the face.

—Can I ask you how you got people to take you seriously? Being a full-time girl... I want to shout it from the rooftops, but I know it's all going to go wrong. No one's going to believe me. Everything's going to go wrong.

Mayu looked down for a moment. Her voice changed, rougher, more real.

—It wasn't easy. It was disgusting. Painful. I never want to go through anything like that again.

She crossed her arms, her gaze hardened.

—I had to change schools after a couple of years. When I could pass, I was happy. No... even before, but only at home. I lost a school year because I didn't want to get out of bed. I couldn't handle the world. And let me tell you, in a way, you have it worse. With all the crap you spewed for a year and a half, you're going to go through hell.

She took one of the empty bottles Ranma had left, and crushed it furiously between her hands.

—But I can help you, if you want. Now that you're aware of your mistakes... I can see you. And have some empathy. I don't know if we're going to be friends, but at least you don't seem like a lost cause.

Ranma swallowed. She wanted to say something, but she didn't know what. She just nodded. And for the first time, she felt a little less weight on her chest.

—Thanks... really.

Mayu glanced at her sideways.

—Don't screw it up.

—Now that you have the representative, me, and Akane at the institute, I think a good first step would be to talk to the teachers, and in the longer term, look into hormones, although I don't know if it applies to your magic ass, but I understand you're blocked. If it was on purpose, congratulations; if not, find a way to make both your forms feel good.

—I'll do my best.

And as she walked away, Mayu dropped a final phrase, with a half-smile:

—See you later, next time I won't be your therapist unless you bring me apple tea, and remember being trans it's not a wrong choice its your life.

The next day...

The morning sun filtered through the window, illuminating Kasumi's room with a soft glow. The air smelled of moisturizer and a hint of floral perfume, something that had become habitual since Ranma started sharing the space. Both were in front of the mirror, finalizing details on their outfits for the long-awaited family outing.

—Does this skirt look too short on me? —Ranma asked, looking at her reflection with a frown. She wore a white t-shirt with red letters and a denim skirt that ended above the knee. Her high boots gave her a casual air, and her hair pulled back in a small braid highlighted the vivid color of her hair.

Kasumi, calmer, adjusted the collar of her own blue coat and smiled sweetly.

—Not at all, Ranma. You look great. Besides, Mom bought you those clothes because she knows you like to look comfortable, right?

—Yeah, you're right —Ranma replied, sighing. Then she turned to look at Kasumi—. By the way, that coat looks beautiful on you. You look... different, you know? More modern.

Kasumi laughed softly. Her long plaid dress and blue coat contrasted with her usual classic style. However, the joyful look in her eyes showed how much she enjoyed the change.

—Thanks. I guess it's a way to feel more confident. Mom also insisted that I buy something different. She says I need to pamper myself a little.

Ranma raised her eyebrows with complicity.

—I see Mom's influence is strong. You used to say you didn't need new clothes.

Kasumi shrugged with a playful gesture.

—I always thought it was an unnecessary expense. But... I think I needed a change. Just like you.

The room fell silent for a moment. Ranma looked at herself in the mirror again, tucking the t-shirt into the skirt, trying to make it look good. Suddenly, her eyes shone with determination.

—Kasumi... I've been thinking —she said softly—. Today, when we're in Oshino Hakkai, I'm going to tell Mom I'm a girl. I know she already knows, but... I want to say it out loud.

Kasumi turned to Ranma, with a smile so sweet that it seemed to illuminate more than the window's sunlight.

—That sounds perfect. I know you've been waiting for the right moment. And even if Mom suspects, hearing it from you will be very important.

Ranma nodded, still a little nervous.

—Yeah. I don't want it to stay as assumptions. I want her to know that I'm sure of what I feel. That I'm not going to take a step back.

Kasumi left her coat on the bed and approached to take Ranma's hands gently.

—I'm very proud of you, little sister. I know it's a big step, but you're not alone. And if something goes wrong, you'll always have me to support you. And Mom too, of course.

Ranma gently squeezed Kasumi's hands, feeling that familiar warmth that gave her strength.

—Thanks, Kasumi. I'm glad I can share this with you... and with Mom.

Kasumi returned the squeeze and, before letting go, gave her a look full of affection.

—Well then, let's hurry! You wouldn't want to keep our mother waiting.

Ranma giggled and pushed a strand of hair from her forehead.

—Right. Especially now that she's been spoiling us so much. I have to admit... it feels good to have a family like this.

Kasumi picked up her coat and bag, checking that everything was in order.

—Ready?

Ranma gave herself one last look in the mirror, adjusted her skirt, and took a breath.

—Ready. Let's go, Kasumi.

And with that little moment of complicity, they both left the room, ready to meet Nodoka and begin the trip to Oshino Hakkai, unaware that that day would become one of the most important for their family relationship.

The road to Oshino Hakkai was a breath of fresh air, surrounded by green and with Mount Fuji peeking in the distance between soft clouds. Ranma walked in the middle, with a confident but relaxed pace, while Kasumi and Nodoka chatted animatedly about the vegetation, the spring weather, and childhood memories of the region. Sometimes Ranma commented, sometimes she just listened, letting the warmth of that moment soak into her.

Kasumi was especially talkative that day, with a playful and cheerful air that contrasted with her usual serenity. She commented on small anecdotes of her childhood with Nabiki and Akane, from fights over candy to the times they played at doing "experiments" in the kitchen when she still didn't know how to boil water. Ranma laughed wholeheartedly when Kasumi told her how Nabiki once tried to open a massage business in the neighborhood and ended up with five complaints for back pain.

—And Akane volunteered as a model, of course —Kasumi added—. But she ended up crying. Although I won't say if it was from pain or the massage.

—It was probably both —Ranma replied with a smile.

—And you don't know the time we stole Dad's iron because we thought we could make crepes with it —Kasumi continued, laughing—. Nabiki almost set the kitchen on fire, and Akane blamed a stray cat.

—Kasumi! —Nodoka laughed—, I didn't know you were so mischievous!

—We were, Mom. But only when we thought you weren't watching. Although the truth is, Akane was more mischievous than me —she added, winking at Ranma.

—And you? —Nodoka asked, turning to her red-haired daughter—. Did you also play pranks when you were little?

—Uh... I don't know. I think I lived in permanent mischief mode —Ranma replied, shrugging—. Although they weren't as fun as theirs. Rather... they were necessary to survive Genma.

The clothes she wore gave her a fresh and modern air: a denim skirt, high boots, and a white t-shirt with red letters. It wasn't exactly something she would have worn in the past, but now she felt comfortable in her skin, even flirtatious. Kasumi, for her part, looked charming in her blue coat and polka-dot dress, with a flower in her hair that Nodoka had helped her arrange that morning. She looked happy with the things she was able to buy thanks to her mother's support, and every time the wind made her skirt wave, she looked like a painting in motion.

The three stopped at one of the lakes in the area, watching the fish glide under the clear water. Ranma took a stone and threw it gently. It skipped three times before sinking. Kasumi smiled.

—More and more elegant, Ranma-chan.

—I've had a good teacher —she replied, glancing at her.

They continued to stroll through the springs, visiting the eight ponds one by one, taking photos with a camera borrowed by Nodoka, trying sweets at the small roadside stands, letting the day fill with shared memories. Ranma even dared to buy a pair of simple earrings at a craft stall. Nodoka said nothing, but her smile said more than any words.

On one of the stone paths, just after crossing a small wooden bridge, Ranma stopped. Her eyes were fixed on a pond of crystalline water, and the reflection of her feminine face, serene and sweet, mixed with the floating leaves on the surface. Kasumi noticed her expression and took her hand gently.

—Are you okay?

Ranma nodded, then took a deep breath. —I'm going to tell her, Kasumi. Today. I want to tell her I'm a girl. That... I'm her daughter.

Kasumi didn't respond immediately. She squeezed her hand tightly, then hugged her with a warm tenderness, without drama. A sister, an accomplice.

—She already knows, Ranma. But it will make her happy to hear it from you.

And so, shortly after, when they stopped to rest in front of a more secluded pond, under a leafy maple that offered cool shade, Ranma sat next to her mother and looked at her directly.

—Mom —she said, with a calm firmness—, I know this may seem obvious, but I want to say it clearly. I'm a girl. Not because of the curse, not by accident... I'm a girl. I always have been, it just took me time to understand. And... I'm happy like this.

Nodoka looked at her in silence, and then, with slightly bright eyes, caressed her cheek.

—I know, my daughter. And you make me so happy. So, so happy.

Ranma allowed herself to rest her head on her shoulder, while Kasumi sat on her other side, wrapping her arms around both of them. The soft wind caressed their faces, and for a moment, the world seemed to stop. Some flowers floated in the air, and the murmur of the water seemed to harmonize with the calm beats of Ranma's heart.

At noon they sat on an outdoor terrace, under a mint-colored umbrella. The view was beautiful: the ponds behind, the mountains in the background, and a group of tourists laughing in the distance. They ate onigiri, vegetable tempura, and fresh plum juice. The atmosphere was filled with that kind of cozy silence where there was no need to say anything.

Nodoka carefully placed her chopsticks on the bento box and, after a sip of tea, discreetly took two envelopes from her bag, placing them in front of her daughters.

—A little allowance —she said serenely—. For both of you.

Kasumi looked at her in surprise. —Allowance? But Mom, you've already done so much. You paid for Ranma's lodging and...

—That's already settled, dear —she interrupted sweetly—. This isn't for that. It's because I'm here. Because I want to help in every way I can now that I can. Seeing Ranma happy, so herself, so alive... is an absolute joy for me. And you, Kasumi, gave me the opportunity to meet you and took steps to see me as a mother. That's invaluable.

—But Mom...

—I didn't want to bring up the money issue at first —Nodoka continued—. I preferred you to know me as I am now, not as the shadow of what I once was. But it would be foolish not to use the resources I have to take care of my daughters. And you deserve to enjoy your youth, with joy, with freedom. Not just survive. I want you to have nice things, new experiences, and everything I couldn't give you before.

Ranma looked down, her fingers slowly caressing the envelope in front of her. She didn't know if it was from emotion or old guilt, but she felt her chest warm, vibrant. Then she raised her eyes, clearer than ever.

—Thank you, Mom —she said simply.

The word hung in the air for a few seconds. And then Nodoka reached out and caressed both their hair at the same time, almost like a spontaneous choreography.

—How about we go for ice cream after this?

They both nodded, and the rest of the lunch continued with soft laughter, spoons fighting for the last bite of dessert, and a couple of bad jokes from Ranma that still made the two most important women in her life laugh.

The sun was beginning to set when they found a small ice cream parlor overlooking the nearby tea fields. The place was rustic, made of light wood, with outdoor tables under flowering ivy. The three sat with their ice cream cups: Kasumi with melon ice cream, Ranma with strawberry and condensed milk, and Nodoka with traditional matcha.

The conversation flowed lightly at first. Comments about the flavor, about which ice cream seemed more "Instagrammable" if they knew how to use those modern networks, jokes about who could finish theirs the fastest. Ranma laughed with a bit of cream on her nose, and Kasumi passed her a napkin while laughing too.

It was then that Nodoka, in a soft but clear tone, placed her spoon on the plate and looked at them attentively.

—Ranma —she said—. I've been thinking... are you going to use a new name? If so, I want to personally take care of the registration. I've already started the paperwork, but I want to do it right.

Ranma blinked. She hadn't really asked herself that, not seriously. She had been "Ranma" for so long, for better or for worse.

—I don't know —she replied, somewhat shyly—. I never thought of a different one. Ranma... it's weird, but it's part of me too.

—I can understand that —Nodoka said, smiling—. It took me a long time to find the name I use now. "Nodoka" is something I chose when I wanted to start over. I used to be called Shinsui, but I never liked it much. It was a name that felt foreign. Too heavy for who I was.

Kasumi looked at her in surprise, but also with respect. Ranma looked down a little, thoughtful.

—Then... if I chose one... it would have to be something that felt mine. Something that... gave me joy, not burden.

—Exactly —Nodoka said—. And it doesn't have to be so different if you don't want it to be. Sometimes, just a small difference makes all the difference in the world.

Ranma looked at her ice cream, half melted, and laughed softly.

—What if it were Ranko? It doesn't sound that different. But it feels... different. Cheerful, even mischievous.

—Ranko Iori —Kasumi repeated, with a smile that lit up her face—. I really like how it sounds.

Nodoka nodded slowly, her eyes shining with pride.

—Then that's what it will be. Ranko Iori. My daughter.

And as the sun slowly hid behind the tea fields, the three shared the last bite of ice cream as if sealing a small pact, one of affection, freedom, and a finally bright future.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Ranko sat alone on the shrine steps, her hands clasped on her lap and her gaze lost in the darkness that enveloped the forest. The hanging lanterns still flickered gently above her head, casting trembling shadows across the stone stairs. The distant murmur of the festival still vibrated in the air, like an echo of a happiness she no longer belonged to. Akane had left a few minutes ago, running without looking back, and with each passing second, the void she left behind grew larger.

Ranko didn’t cry. Not because she didn’t want to, but because she felt like she had already cried enough. Her heart felt as heavy as if her whole body were made of stone. Even the night air, soft and warm against her skin, felt like icy blades brushing against her back. She breathed slowly, as if afraid she might break with each breath.

In the distance, she heard young laughter and quick footsteps on the stones. A group of students passed nearby, wearing colorful yukatas and holding sparklers. One of the girls—Sayuri, maybe?—turned her head toward the steps and recognized her. Ranko looked away, but she caught a whisper to Yuka, who glanced at her with concern before walking on. They didn’t stop. Maybe they knew they shouldn’t.

—Can I sit here?— said a familiar voice that pulled her out of her thoughts.

It was Nabiki. She walked with a calm step, her figure outlined by the orange glow of the lanterns. She wore a dark yukata with silver details that shimmered slightly with each movement. In one hand, she held an open can of beer, and in the other, one unopened, which she offered to Ranko without another word.

—I can’t drink,— murmured Ranko, her voice barely audible.

—Me neither,— Nabiki replied with a half-smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. —But we’re not here to be model citizens, are we?—

Ranko hesitated for a second, but took the can. She didn’t open it. She just held it between her hands, feeling the cold aluminum like an anchor against the tide of emotions.

—I heard some of the end. Not all of it, but… well, you didn’t screw up as badly as you think,— Nabiki commented casually as she sat beside her.

Ranko squeezed the can tighter.

—I’m sorry…— she whispered, barely a breath.

—Why?— Nabiki asked, turning her head to look at her sideways. —“If this conversation had happened a year ago, I’d probably be calling you my future sister-in-law with a smug smile. But now... after everything that’s changed, who can blame you for feeling differently?”—

Ranko lowered her head, her eyes fixed on the unopened can as if it held answers.

—I didn’t want to hurt her. That was never my intention…— she said in a low, almost trembling voice.

—You didn’t do it out of malice,— Nabiki interrupted firmly. —What happened between you two isn’t a crime. Growing up, changing, living… all of that is part of the deal. Sometimes it hurts, but it’s real. And you were honest. That matters.—

The silence that followed wasn’t uncomfortable it was contemplative. Nabiki leaned back a bit, resting her arms on the steps, staring up at the star-dotted sky.

—Akane’s going to be okay. Hurt, yes. But she’s strong. Stronger than she lets on. And so are you, even if it’s hard for you to believe it.—

Ranko looked at her, for the first time in a while, with a faint spark of emotion in her teary eyes.

—I didn’t expect it to feel like this… I knew we liked each other a lot, but I thought she was also moving on,— she confessed quietly. Then, lowering her gaze even more, she added, —I didn’t know she’d get jealous of Mom…—

Nabiki let out a soft laugh—not mocking, but tinged with a sort of resigned tenderness.

—Don’t worry. If you had heard the poison she spat when she found out you’re graduating early and, on top of that, that you’re Kasumi’s sister… It was a whole show. But she’s matured quite a bit since then. In fact, if you two really tried, you could probably get along. Like… I don’t know, Auntie Nodoka or something. Trust me, this rejection is going to pass too. Give her time. And don’t obsess over it, okay?—

Ranko nodded slowly. The night still smelled of lanterns, incense, and what could have been.

—Thank you, Nabiki…—

—That’s what I’m here for,” she replied, patting her on the shoulder. “Now come on. The festival’s not over yet. And I’m not about to let a seventeen-year-old—almost eighteen—sit here crying on some stairs. We’re the same age, and trust me, I’ve got a lot to teach you about being a proper girl… and more importantly, an interesting one. So get your ass moving, sister.—

Ranko smiled faintly, but this time, she did open the can. The hiss of gas escaping was soft. She stood up beside Nabiki, still trembling a little, but with a steadier step.

And together, they walked down the shrine steps, back toward the festival, where life was still playing, dancing, and breathing.

On the way, they passed a few classmates. Yuka waved, hesitating a little, but smiling sincerely. Sayuri just nodded, holding back a question that stayed on her lips. Ranko responded with a small gesture, without stopping. It wasn’t the time, but she appreciated the thought.

Meanwhile, in another corner of the shrine, Akane walked blindly along a dimly lit stone path. She didn’t know where she was going. She just knew she couldn’t go back yet. Her yukata was disheveled, her hands trembled, and every step felt like a deeper fall into the void that had started forming the moment she heard Ranko's "I'm sorry."

Her steps led her to a clearing among the trees, where she fell to her knees. The ground was warm from the heat of the day, but there was no comfort in it for her. She broke into tears, open sobs, raw and ragged, like a freshly opened wound that didn’t know how to close.

—Akane...—

The voice was soft, but so clear that it pulled her from the abyss for a moment. Kasumi was approaching with her serene gait, and upon seeing her, she said nothing more. She knelt beside her and embraced her tightly.

Akane didn’t resist. She buried her face in her sister's chest, soaking her clothes with tears.

—Kasumi... I...— she gasped. —It took me so many years to realize my feelings... If I had done it earlier... maybe now it would be different. Maybe... she would have loved me too...—

Kasumi just held her. Words weren’t needed yet.

—I spent years fighting with myself. Telling myself it wasn’t possible, that I... that I couldn't love another girl. I forced myself to be someone else. And when I finally accepted it... it was too late. I had already lost her.—

—You haven’t lost her, Akane,— Kasumi finally said, gently. —She just changed the way she's in your life. Sometimes that's harder than a goodbye.—

Akane sobbed even harder, clinging like a child.

—I feel like I failed. That I wasn't fast enough. Or sincere enough. I was scared the whole time. And now? Now it's useless.—

—It matters," Kasumi whispered. "Because you loved. And that is never in vain.—

Kasumi helped her to her feet, and instead of taking her straight to the hotel, she suggested going to the hot springs' jacuzzi first. Akane agreed without much thought, her eyes puffy and her steps heavy.

Once inside, with the steam gently covering the surface of the water and their bodies relaxing in the heat, Kasumi settled next to her.

—I wanted to tell you an anecdote about Mom... well, our mom,— she said with a soft smile. —But first, if you want to talk, I'm here.—

Akane nodded slowly, her gaze downcast.

—Kasumi... there’s something else. It wasn’t just Ranko. It was you too. I felt jealous of how well you're getting along. You and her, you and Nodoka... and I felt left out. It hurt. It hurt more than it should have. I felt displaced... and I know it's awful to be envious because my sister is bonding with the woman she shares blood with. But I couldn't help it.—

Kasumi listened without interrupting, one hand over the water, reaching for hers.

—Thank you for saying it,—she whispered. —What you feel isn’t awful. It’s human. You’re hurting, and when part of our world changes, it’s normal to feel like we're losing something. But you’re not lost, Akane. I'm here. I'll always be here.—

Akane let out a long sigh and finally allowed her body to fully relax. She moved a little closer to Kasumi, resting her head on her shoulder.

And for a moment, the warmth of the water, the silence, and her sister’s embrace were enough to begin to heal.

The night remained warm and radiant, with the festival lights painting the air in brilliant colors as Nabiki and Ranko wandered deeper into the crowd. Despite the weight of Ranko's emotions, Nabiki had a knack for drawing out a smile and lightening the atmosphere, as if she possessed a hidden switch capable of dissolving any tension.

Nabiki offered Ranko another drink, even though she was already feeling a bit tipsy. The bright-eyed girl eyed her with some hesitation, weighing whether to give in to the temptation of another sip. But seeing Nabiki’s determined expression—a mix of mischief and resolve—she finally took a sip, feeling the warm liquid slide down her throat.

—You know,—Nabiki said, letting out a soft laugh, a melodious sound that mixed with the bustle of the festival, —I’m no expert on drinks, but the best conversations usually come after a few of them.— She pulled out some bills with the ease of a seasoned gambler.

Ranko gave a faint smile, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere despite the emotional weight she still carried from earlier that day. The music, the colors, and Nabiki’s company were weaving a veil of forgetfulness over her worries.

—And what makes you so sure I’ll sit here with another drink in my hand?— Ranko teased, a curious spark in her eyes as she glanced at the nearby food stalls, a kaleidoscope of lights and tempting aromas.

—Because I know you,— Nabiki replied with a knowing tone, her smile suggesting the sharing of a delicious secret. —Don’t pretend you’re not enjoying yourself. Look around this is your night. No room for drama. Just us, the festival, and the joy of being here together.—

Ranko shrugged, but the smile lingered on her lips. Feeling the night’s warmth wrap around her, she decided to go along with the moment, letting the flow of words and shared emotions carry her.

—Sometimes I just want to let go of everything and enjoy the moment—no thinking about tomorrow or the responsibilities waiting for me.—

—That’s exactly what I want to hear.— Nabiki raised her drink in a toast, a gesture celebrating freedom and carefreeness. —No more being trapped in the past, stuck on what could’ve been. And hey, I need to know something important—what’s your favorite color? These details matter.—

Ranko took a moment to think, letting the question settle within her.

—Purple, I think. Especially in makeup. There’s an elegance and mystery to it that I really like.—

At that moment, a flashy-looking guy approached Nabiki, wearing a smile that tried to be charming, though Nabiki quickly read it as a cheesy pick-up attempt.

—Hey, beautiful ladies. Can I treat you to a drink?— he asked, winking at Nabiki like he was some B-movie heartthrob.

Ranko frowned slightly, ready to step in if things turned sour. But Nabiki shot her a quick glance, subtle but clear—a signal that she had things under control. Ranko held back, trusting in her friend’s cunning.

Nabiki returned the guy’s smile, her eyes gleaming playfully like a cat toying with yarn. —Aw, how sweet of you. Sure, we wouldn’t mind some drinks. But I have... particular tastes. Think you can handle that?—

The guy, both flattered and challenged, puffed up his chest, eager to impress the two gorgeous girls. —Anything for you. What’ll it be? No limits when it comes to making you happy.—

“Mmm... I’ll have the best premium sake they’ve got. I want to taste Japan’s finest traditions in every sip. And my sister...” Nabiki looked at Ranko with an innocent smile and a mischievous twinkle in her eye, —...she’s happy with a lychee soda. But make it exotic, something surprising for her adventurous palate, okay?—

The guy nodded eagerly, trying to seem sophisticated, and hurried off into the crowd. Ranko turned to Nabiki, both surprised and amused.

—What was that? And lychee? Since when do i like lychee?—

Nabiki giggled, her voice dancing in the festive air. —Shhh… patience, dear Ranko. Let’s just say I have my methods. And don’t worry, lychee sounds great especially when it’s free. Plus, it’s always good to try something new.”—

A few minutes later, the guy returned with the drinks, clearly pleased with himself. He handed the sake to Nabiki with an almost theatrical bow, and offered the lychee soda to Ranko with a proud grin.

Nabiki took the sake, inhaled the scent dramatically, then sighed with delight, as if tasting the nectar of the gods. —Perfect. You’re a true gentleman, Kenji. Your taste is impressive. Thank you so much… uh…—

“Kenji,” the guy replied, a little dazed from all the attention, but happy to have impressed them.

—Kenji. Lovely to meet you. I’m Nabiki, and this is Ranko.— Nabiki motioned toward Ranko, who nodded politely, trying to hide her amusement. —Well, Kenji, it’s been a pleasure… negotiating with you. But if you’ll excuse us, these drinks aren’t going to drink themselves. We’ve got a night to enjoy.—

Nabiki took Ranko by the arm and led her away, leaving Kenji standing there, a little confused but smiling, pleased to have “charmed” two lovely girls, if only for a moment. Once they were out of earshot, Nabiki clinked her cup against Ranko’s with a triumphant grin.

—To generous guys and free drinks!— she toasted, raising her cup toward the colorful lights of the festival.

Ranko shook her head, laughing, unable to hide her admiration for her friend’s boldness and wit. “You’re amazing, Nabiki. How do you even do that? You have a gift for getting people to do what you want.”

—Let’s just say I have my charms... and a knack for business.— Nabiki winked, revealing her secret with a mischievous smile. —Now, let’s enjoy the night, Ranko. Stop overthinking and just relax. That’s what we’re here for—to forget the worries and soak up the magic of the moment.—

Around them, laughter and murmurs filled the air while the lights painted the sky in vibrant hues, and casual conversations created a symphony of voices and emotion. Ranko slowly began to unwind, feeling the alcohol and Nabiki’s company wash away the tension in her body and mind. She was finally enjoying a night that moved at her own pace.

—Okay, but don’t make me sound like a tortured young soul,— Ranko said with a playful smile, grateful for Nabiki’s support and friendship. —But... thank you, Nabiki. I guess what I needed to hear is that tonight, I’m not Ranko ‘the confused girl.’ I’m just... Ranko. A girl who wants to enjoy the night.—

—Exactly. And sometimes we need to stop being who others expect us to be and start being who we really want to be.— Nabiki replied with a wink, sipping more of her drink.

The night rolled on, and Nabiki, always looking for ways to stir things up, came up with an idea that perfectly matched her playful spirit.

—Hey, how about we make this night a bit more exciting?— she suggested, a mischievous smile lighting up her face. —Tendo sisters’ style.—

Ranko raised an eyebrow, intrigued. —What do you mean?—

—A little game. A bet. Let’s raise the adrenaline a bit, don’t you think?— Nabiki pointed to a nearby stall where a man was struggling to fish a toy out of a tank using a flimsy net. “For example, if I fail to catch a toy, I’ll give my number to the next cute guy who walks by. And if you fail…—

—I have to dance with the takoyaki vendor?— Ranko guessed, grinning.

—Bingo!— Nabiki laughed, giving her a high five. —But we can mix up the bets, of course. The idea is to have fun and do things a little... out of the ordinary. So, what do you say? You in?”—

Ranko smiled, accepting the challenge. —Always. But you better be ready to give out that number, Nabiki. My goldfish-catching skills are legendary.—

And so, the two sisters dove into a series of increasingly absurd and hilarious bets. At one point, Nabiki tried to beat a kid at a target-shooting game, betting that if she lost, she’d have to mimic a bird call in front of everyone. In another, Ranko faced the challenge of eating an extra-spicy takoyaki dish—if she failed, she’d have to confess her biggest secret to someone Nabiki chose.

Laughter echoed around them as they competed and cheered each other on, drawing curious glances and knowing smiles from festival-goers. The night turned into a whirlwind of goofy challenges and unforgettable moments, strengthening the bond between the two sisters even more.

Finally, after hours of laughter, games, and bets, the night came to an end. Tired but with hearts full of joy, Ranko and Nabiki returned to the hotel, their feet sore but their spirits rejuvenated.

As they reached the entrance to the rooms, they were met with a scene that made them freeze in place. Kasumi was sitting in a chair, waiting for them with a serious, unflinching expression. Her eyes, cold and piercing, scanned them from head to toe.

—Did you seriously go drinking? —Kasumi asked, her voice soft, yet carrying an undeniable firmness.

Ranko and Nabiki froze, feeling like two kids caught in the middle of a prank. The effect of the alcohol, which had kept them in a carefree state until that moment, vanished instantly, replaced by a sense of guilt and apprehension.

Before they could stammer out any excuses or justifications, Kasumi continued speaking, her tone softening a little, though she didn’t lose her serious demeanor.

—It’s not a huge problem, as long as you didn’t cause any damage beyond Akane’s mood... she’s already asleep in her room, after a rather... eventful day. —Kasumi sighed, with a mix of exhaustion and resignation. —That’s why, to avoid further complications, Nabiki will have to sleep with Ranko tonight. And for the rest of the vacation, we’re not leaving Ranko and Akane alone. They need supervision.

Ranko and Nabiki looked at each other, a mix of surprise and relief on their faces. They knew that even though Kasumi was scolding them, deep down she was just worried about them and everyone’s well-being.

The night went on, and after Kasumi set the new room arrangement, Ranko found herself in the bedroom, ready to sleep.

She put on her pajamas, a soft fabric she barely felt against her skin, and slid under the covers. But sleep didn’t come. Her mind was too active, replaying the events of the night.

—I rejected Akane. —The thought echoed in her head, making her feel a slight pang of guilt, but also a strange sense of relief. It had been a hard decision, but she knew it was the right one.

—I drank, I danced, and I gave my number to some random guy. —The image of the guy popped into her mind. It wasn’t that she was particularly interested in him, but the adrenaline of the moment, the thrill of the bet, had pushed her to act in a way that wasn’t entirely typical for her. —What am I doing with my life, and why does it feel so good?

She looked over at Nabiki, who was already peacefully asleep beside her. Her sister had the gift of disconnecting from the world and diving into sleep in a matter of seconds. Ranko, on the other hand, felt like her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions.

Unable to sleep, she decided to get up. She left the room carefully, making sure not to wake Nabiki, and headed to the hotel’s common area.

The scene she found there was... peculiar. Genma lay passed out on a couch, snoring loudly, with an empty sake bottle on the floor. Ranko wrinkled her nose at the sight of her former trainer in that state. —Pathetic, —she thought.

But he wasn’t alone. Soun and Kasumi were sitting at a nearby table, sharing a bottle of sake. They seemed to be in the middle of a calm conversation.

—Can’t sleep? —Ranko asked, approaching them.

Soun gave her a tired smile. —Hey, Ranko. Kasumi and I were... reflecting on the day’s events. And trying to unwind a bit.

Kasumi nodded, offering her a small cup of sake. —Sit with us, little sister. A bit of peace will do you good.

Ranko accepted the cup and sat in a nearby chair. The sake was warm and had a soft, comforting taste.

—It’s been a... intense day —Ranko commented, taking a small sip of the drink.

—Intense is one way to put it —Soun said with a sigh. —Akane is... upset. And I... I don’t know what to do.

—I don’t blame you, Ranko. In fact, I want to apologize for how I acted this past month. I had resentment toward your mother, something I can no longer hold after seeing how even my eldest daughter sees her as a wonderful mother. And when I saw my plans fall apart, I just treated you badly. Still, I’m somewhat disappointed that even your feelings for my daughter have changed.

—Give it time, Dad —Kasumi said, her voice soft and soothing. —Akane needs to process her feelings. And so do you.

There was a moment of silence, broken only by Genma’s snoring. Ranko looked at Soun, noticing the sadness and confusion in his expression.

—Do you think I did the wrong thing? —Ranko asked, referring to her rejection of Akane.

Soun looked at her with surprise, then shook his head. —No, Ranko. I don’t think you did the wrong thing. It’s your decision. And you have every right to make your own choices, even if they aren’t what others expect. Even now, I can see you as part of the family.

Kasumi nodded, supporting her father’s words. —What matters is that you’re honest with yourself, Imōto-chan. And that you do what you think is best for you.

Ranko felt relieved by their words. It was good to hear that they weren’t judging her, that they understood her situation.

The conversation continued, flowing gently between the three of them. They talked about Akane, her feelings, the complications of their relationships. They talked about the festival, the laughter and games, the strange but fun night they had.

At some point, Soun fell asleep, his head resting on the table. Kasumi smiled tenderly at the sight, then got up to fetch a blanket for him.

Ranko and Kasumi were left alone, in silence, sharing the peace of the night. Ranko felt grateful for her sister-in-law’s company. Kasumi had always been a figure of calm and wisdom for her, someone she could turn to for advice and comfort.

—Thank you, Kasumi —said Ranko, finally breaking the silence. —For listening to me. For being here.

Kasumi gave her a smile that was both sweet and sad. —I’ll always be here for you, Ranko. For you and for everyone. We’re family. And that’s what families do.

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The humid summer heat was beginning to seep through the school hallways. The first-floor bulletin board already had the date marked: "End of semester - Last day of classes: Friday the 13th."

Ranko walked along the second-floor outdoor corridor, her hands in the pockets of her skirt and a half-empty water bottle hanging from her fingers. From there she could see the first-year students resting in the shade, shouting random things or throwing paper airplanes.

She had already finished her exams. The relief was real. But she didn't feel the same euphoria as the others.

"Two weeks left..." she thought, watching the pale blue sky between the buildings. "And then, Chiba."

She wasn't sad. But not light either. Maybe something in between. Like when you realize something nice is about to end, even though the end hasn't come yet.

—Are you going to stay there reflecting until you get heatstroke?

Ranko turned quickly, startled.

—Ah! Makoto... you scared me again like that.

Makoto Nijima smiled slightly, with a bottle of iced tea in one hand and her half-open backpack hanging from one shoulder.

—I saw you from below. You walk like you have a cloud over you.

—Me? No. I'm perfect.— Ranko straightened up suddenly, almost with a little jump. —I was just... recalibrating my soul, you know. Martial artist things.

—Uh-huh. And how did your exams go, enlightened soul?

—Good. Except for history. I think I confused the Meiji Revolution with the okonomiyaki recipe. But well, things happen.

—I'm not surprised. Although Sayuri told me that you were studying hard last week. Between her, Yuka and you, I think you formed a secret club of undercover nerds.

—My mom's fault. I promised her I'd improve my grades to get to Chiba in the best possible shape.

Nijima watched her silently for a few seconds. Then, she lowered her gaze to her bottle and turned it between her fingers.

—Ranko.

—Hmm?"

—I wanted to ask you something. But only if you don't have plans already.

Ranko tilted her head, curious.

—Shoot.

Nijima inhaled softly, as if she had already rehearsed what she was about to say.

—On Friday, in a week, there's a concert in downtown Tokyo. Some jazz and indie pop bands are playing, and... well, I thought it might be nice to go.

—With Sayuri and Yuka?" Ranko asked, with a little smile.

—No. I mean, I really liked the last outings with them, seriously. I had a lot of fun. But this time... I wanted to invite only you.

Ranko blinked. She didn't say anything for a second, more out of surprise than anything else. But her cheeks turned a pale pink, as if the summer heat had decided to settle there directly.

—A concert? Just us? Like on a date?

—Only if you want. If not, we can also say that we are two girls enjoying good music on a summer night.

The silence became sweet. Light. The wind moved the hair of both, and from below someone was shouting something about free ice cream at the corner store.

Ranko looked down. Her smile was small, shy, but genuine.

—I accept. I would love to go with you.

Nijima nodded with a serene gesture, although her eyes sparkled with a spark that Ranko barely managed to hold with her gaze.

—Great. I'll take care of the tickets. But you take care of what we wear.— Said Ranko with her usual mischievous smile.

—Huh?! Me?

—Yes. I want you to surprise me.

Ranko laughed, shaking her head.

—Besides, thanks, you gave me an incredible idea.

That same afternoon, Ranko returned home with an idea buzzing in her head.

"Before I leave, I want to do something special for everyone," she thought as she checked her case of pens, colored papers, and old markers. There were so many things she hadn't said, so many moments that were stuck to her skin, like sand after the beach.

12 days until the move

That night, in the solitude of her room, Ranko wrote two letters.

Yuka:

I don't really know where to start... I guess I should say thank you first. Thanks for being there from the beginning, even when you didn't totally know what to do or say, you still stayed. That means more to me than I can write.

I remember when you helped me pick out clothes for my "one-month challenge" (even though we all knew it wasn't just a challenge ). You made me feel pretty without forcing it, without laughing. You were just there, like it was the most normal thing in the world. And that calmness of yours, that way you have of saying things as they are, helped me a lot to get grounded.

You made me see that I could be strong without being defensive, and feminine without it taking anything away from me. Even when I complained that the teachers were giving me weird looks or when I cried because someone called me "half a guy", you were there with that "¿y qué?" face and you made me laugh again.

I loved our walks back, when Sayuri would go ahead to get ice cream and we would stay behind, talking about anything. You made me feel normal. You made me feel loved. And that's not forgotten.

I promise you that I'm going to keep working on myself, on my style, on my confidence... and on my grades, don't make that face!

I hope you can come visit me. There's a coffee shop in Chiba that I'm sure you'll love. Matcha latte, but without sugar, just the way you like it.

I love you a lot, Yuka. I really do.

—Ranko <3

P.S. And yeah, I admit it: you're a better singer than Sayuri, but don't tell her or she gets unbearable!

 

Sayuri

I don't even know how to start this letter without my hands shaking. But I'm going to try not to cry... or at least not too much.

Thank you. Thank you for not letting go of me, for grabbing my arm when I needed it most, and for making me laugh when all I wanted to do was lock myself in the bathroom to cry.

Do you remember the day I got my period for the first time? You do. Because you were the one who passed me the pads without saying anything, the one who hugged me even though I was shaking like I had done something wrong. From then on, I knew you were different. That you were one of those friends who stay. Who stay even if you fall, even if you hide, even if you don't know who you are.

And then came karaoke. God. You made me sing when I didn't even want to talk. And you made me discover that my voice can also sound pretty when I'm not shouting to defend myself. That's where something started. Something that I don't quite understand yet, but that I like. The music, my voice, whatever it is... I want to keep looking for it.

You gave me permission to enjoy myself.

And that's why I'm writing this to you. Because you saved me. Because you made going to school less of a battlefield and more of a place where I could laugh, plan what outfit to wear, or invent silly excuses not to go to class just to drink bubble tea.

I love you with all my soul, Sayuri. Even though you're a disaster at singing sometimes. Even though you get mad when Yuka wins in the surprise quizzes. Even though you hug me too tight when you're happy.

I'm going to miss you. A lot. But I also know that you're just a video call away. And I hope that one day you'll come to Chiba and we'll sing karaoke without fear.

—Ranko <3

 

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