Walk away

#

Right you know the drill by now.

I don't own anything.

Some big company does not me.

I'm earning no money off this, and never will. Although I am having immense fun messing around with these characters.

Consider this fic an AU because while I may pick up elements from the manga, I'm not sticking rigorously to the original storyline.

I use a lot of character thoughts in my story tellin, so to save confusion, both yours and mine:

This is not speech, it will go in italics only, not speech marks so don't flame me about it later ok.

If it is speech it will go in normal text in speech marks.

I will work around this habit of mine eventually, but until then, please just bare with me and enjoy the fiction ok.

That out the way

Reviewing

-reviewing is optional, appreciated and will be replied to via my profile page, not through the fic.

I feel it detracts from the story to tag review answers on .

I'm grateful to hear from anyone who wants to comment, as it helps me know what you think of the storyline; and maybe highlight plot holes I've forgot to fill in .If you can't be arsed to write a lengthy critique I'm just as satisfied with a rating out of ten.

So if you could spare five minutes to tell me what you think thank you in advance

If not thanks for reading the fic anyway.

Walk away

The attack came swiftly without hesitation or forewarning; her head reeling for the blows Akane was no longer sure who or what had attacked her this time. Sluggishly she tried to stand once more leaning desperately against construction fence to support a leg that would no longer hold her. The fence rocked against her tumbling her petite form violently to the hard ground, where she lay still, exhausted from the assault.

The world was still swimming distortedly before her eyes; an orange haze shrouded her last vision.

Numbness prevailed throughout her limbs as they failed to respond to the desperate command to move, even her eyes lids felt too heavy to lift and slowly drifted closed almost of their own accord. The conversation flowed around her.

The muffled voices steadily became familiar, but the words remained meaningless sounds. Straining to focus through the cotton wool feeling a few scant words registered.

"Soon my daughter the hunt will be at an end, and we will receive what has been desired all this time"

Cologne ?

Her last reserves deplete, she heard no more, as the aged hands carried her to her death.

Days passed, and still she could not stir from her catatonic state. She knew she should feel worried, panicked even, but all she could feel was warmth .It whispered softly sinking deep into her bones, she was tired, oh so tired, she needed to sleep. Long forgotten memories stirred unbidden as she surrendered. Lost in times past only her brief waking moments marked that time had passed.

First a shroud before her eyes blanketing the world in white, as more meaningless words were cast to the wind, if anyone else was there to hear them she could not tell as the dreams took hold once more. The scene changed again to the gentle rocking of a moving vehicle, held by the windowless truck in a make shift cot she sensed someone. These brief moments did not last; as sweet smelling incense sent her head reeling back to the dreamless slumber. Faces passed behind her eyes for this mysterious stranger, someone familiar, perhaps friendly, or simply indifferent. Awareness melted like the spring snows revealing a feeling of strong arms and the roar of a plane. Arms that held her tightly securely but gently as a child. Drifting in her minds fluid realms this felt real, soil and true. The steady heartbeat soothed her troubled mind; she knew where she was whose arms held her. How could anything be wrong? Suspended halfway between dreams and reality Akane waded through happier times before the pigtailed martial artist entered her life and thought.

She had not wanted to wake, but wake she did. Stiffened and weak in a damp cave, the warmth drained from her as she stretched against the ropes that oppressively bound her. In defiance of the pain she twisted ferociously in all directions, seeking freedom or an escape route, but in the shadows of the cave nothing could be seen.

Hope sprang as the ropes give slightly, Akane again began to struggle, and she pushed harder, but couldn't find the strength to break free completely.

The steady dip of water echoed, her eyes began to adjust to the deep gloom across the cave she knew one sure thing about her captors, they wanted her humiliated. Having left bread in a shallow dish to torment her.

Lost and forlorn Akane sank against the wall and waited for her captures to arrive; sure that it would not be long before someone came to gloat.

A small bright eyed cat watched these events puzzled.

The girl below, although now awake, no longer moves, she does not cry or scream it was most infuriating. How do you gloat over an enemy that does not take the bait, just stares uncaring at floor like a statue?

The cat leaps down from secluded ledge, its fur bristling, front claws outstretched. The indifferent glance from the captive did not satisfy tentatively; it stalked its way towards the girl. The unnatural stillness made the girls face wane, like one of the living dead. Hissing its displeasure the cat stalked forward more purposefully losing its previous grace determined to bite, scratch make the girl react to her presence

Eyes burning from her unshed tears Akane watched the approach refusing to show weakness.

"So, it was you." She croaked her voice a mere murmur from lack of use.

The cat paused in its advance and smirked, strangely placated by the girls' anger

"What's the plan this time Shampoo?"

The cat made no response, delicately licking her paw to being stroking it across her long ears.

"Let me guess. Stash me in a cave until Ranma forgets that I exist. Or have you got another one of your Amazon potions to test. "Akane turned her head away, screwing her eyes closed to prevent the escape of tears.

"I'm so sick of this," The heartfelt whisper echoed. The cat looked up at the girl, studying the shaking form

A single tear fell, sparkling as it rolled down the dirt streaked cheek.

Akane turn her head to face the cat once more and glared into the steely eyes.

In a voice filled with the hurt of betrayal Akane asked one final question

"What did I ever do to you? Any of you"

The cat turned away, and fled.

It ran through the winding passages as though the hounds of hell were on its heels. It was close enough to the truth; its conscious pursued it as it ran the question quickly following.

"What did I ever do to you"

Shampoo railed against a flow of guilt

"What did I ever do to you"

The slights seemed less substantial, the interference less infuriating in the face of the girl's heartfelt tear.

"The Kitchen destroyer has to be eliminated, that was the way these things were dealt with. The way things had always been dealt with."

"Only the strong survived" Colognes wisdom echoed through her head,

Shampoo would kill the kitchen destroyer proving before witnesses that she was the better fiancée to claim Ranma. It was what she wanted, wasn't it?

She had never questioned her destiny to murder her rival before.

The unanticipated thought gave her pause.

Kill she mentally corrected; you do not murder an outsider. Outsiders are killed, killed like animal.

Without a noise she departed the oppressive darkness, craving sunlight like fresh air to dispel the doubts.

It was all Mousses fault; he was the one who had put this nonsense in her head.

Endless arguments against the plan before he finally relented.

She was a fellow warrior. Her clan would greatly suffer from another loss.

Colognes anger had boiled at the incessant pleas. The outsider was not involved in this, Shampoo snorted at that comments of course she was involved; she was the obstacle and not the only one.

Mousse protested one last time before depositing his charge. She had valid claim to the Satome heir. To simply kill her, it was murder.

The constant comments were beginning to take their tole on Shampoos now uneasy mind.

At this Colognes shred of patience had snapped, she clouted him with her cane hard enough to rattle his teeth. Announcing he must stay and guard his charge for a further night without sleep in punishment of his presumption.

He was still there, in the dim twilight Mouse stood guard at the caves entrance. A roll of clothing at his feet and a pail of hot water, rapidly cooling in the autumn chill.

"I'll ask once more my love, please don't do this"

Shampoo stalked past her nose in the air, ignoring his words. Pawing the buckets edge it spilled a scant amount of water atop her feline head. The transformation from cat to naked girl no longer fazed Mousse, the sight having become a normal occurrence.

"Is our way, Mousse wanting Shampoo to be shamed in front of tribe? Want to be out cast forever? Shampoo still no date Mouse" It was odd even though the words still felt harsh and laboured across her tongue she could not bring herself to speak in their native tongue as he had done.

For the first time since they left she looked at Mousse analysed every detail, from his shabby travelling shoes to his weary panda eyes that clung to her form, as though she were the only thing worth looking at in the world.

Shrugging off the feeling she draped herself in the blouse which hung loosely, like an oversized dress. Everything moved slowly as she tore stripes of cloth from the towel seductively wrapping them around her waist, keenly aware of the admiring eyes fixed upon her.

The attention was flattering as it was fleeting as the spell which held them in place broke.

"How can you kill her so easily, after everything?" His voice was crying the demand now; Mousse keeled on the ground, touching it with his forehead.

Shampoo swallowed hard to continue, praying it would end soon.

"Is easy, outsider is outsider no matter. Either way Shampoo gets what Shampoo wants" The confident commanding tone was lesser with each syllable; a rift was beginning, as doubt stealthily crept in.

"Shampoo always had tried to kill Kitchen destroyer, Mousse know that. Why Mousse think it different now Shampoo do it in front of whole tribe"

Mousse did not move from the ground.

"Do you really believe that, this trap is dishonourable Shampoo."

"NO is fair," She protested, irritated at his siding with the outsider "Kitchen destroyer has chance to fight fair for Arian. One less woman to compete, one go back to claim Arian"

But Shampoos protest fell on deaf ears as Mouse rose steadily to his feet, disinterested in her agitation, idly playing with the weapons concealed in his sleeve.

"And the fact that she is injured my love? How does that fit into your concept of fair?"

He eyes could no longer meet his. The others she could stand this from, but not him never him, clutching the bucket she turned to set out for the village though doggedly she tried to get the last word in.

"Mousse can not speak, he fight dishonourably all time" and with that she started to walk a smug smile upon her face.

"I will fight this Shampoo" It appeared Mousse also wanted the last word.. "Please show her some respect, at least wait until she is healed."

Shampoo twisted round to scream "No all is happening tomorrow. So Mousse do what Mousse wants, Shampoo no care. By sundown kitchen destroyer die and Ranma belongs only to Shampoo." The last word achieved she ran, before Mousse could answer another certainty with a question.

Disappointment, that's all he could feel now, not love nor jealousy at Shampoos assertion.

The towels remains lay ragged and unwanted on the ground where it had been carelessly tossed. Just as his affection always was he reflected. Tenderly he held it close enough to breathe her sweet sent before returning it to it's hiding place.

It was strange to be back in his old homeland far away from the hustle and bustle of the towns. The lack of faceless wanders made the feeling of isolation more profound than he had ever known it. Time began to stretch out and the sun dwindled down in the mute sky as his mind wandered back and forth to the girl asleep below and a live had had once known.

She would have made a fine Amazon with her fiery temper and untapped potential, someone he would be glad to call a friend, even if she did kick him when he grasped onto her by mistake.

He took a liking to her when he first laid eyes on her, that faithful day when he first challenged Ranma. His focus had been so absolute she had feature almost as a blip on his senses until he saw her glare.

He could not free Shampoo from Ranmas hold, so why not free another. The man couldn't have come by that defiant beauty honestly either. He smirked at his own half truth.

The memories assaulted his mind one after the other.

The way her eyes sparkled with rage when he named her the prize, the kindness, offering him her ticket to the hot spring race, the bitterness at Ranma's rejection of her, a hand of friendship extended.

A small body cradled protectively in his arms.

Sighing he muttered

"This is not right"

Guard duty, at least this guard duty did not agree with him, most of the journey spent in isolation with his motionless charge.

The flight had been the worst…

Flash back

Not trusting her granddaughter with enough patience to tend to the young Tendo, Cologne let the role of guard fall to him. Guarding her from what he did not dare ask. Conceivably it was a simply method of disposing of two inconveniences simultaneously.

The airport passed by at a snail pace, unfortunately the staff took an exceptional interest in the 'sweet older brother' with his oh so sick little sister. It had been easier to grit his teeth and let Cologne do the talking.

The stout hearted youngster who flatly refused to be parted from her, even though his relatives could not bare to be near, the young girls condition breaking their poor grandmother's heart.

Broke her heart, he almost broke his teeth listening to the lies Cologne span, accompanied by Shampoos sullen crocodile tears. Despite the prickly situation she landed him in, he had to admit her performance was remarkable; truly a marvel to behold as one by one the naive fools fell for it hook, line and sinker.

Even her extravagant theatrics didn't lift his flagging spirits; It was bad enough to be trapped again in a large metal box, without the constant interruptions from interested passers by.

Even before getting on the plane

"Tickets please, thank you sir enjoy your flight"

"Oh isn't that adorable. What a sweet looking girl. Your sister? You're going to carry her all by yourself? What a strong young man you are."

The admiration and attention was almost unnerving he almost reached for his weapons to escape the constant assault on his nerves, but with one warning glance from Cologne he no longer dared to even toy with the notion. In desperation he tried and failed to meditate, as faceless nameless strangers passed in a blur. While Shampoo played the dutiful granddaughter to the 'grief stricken' matriarch, briefly he noted that her acting skills required a little work.

"Are you sure? There may be a wheel chair around somewhere we can put her in. No? Well ok then just call me when you need it"

Mousse could not figure out if this task was a test, or a trap.

"Ooow what's wrong with her, is it serious, that serious? Can't she be woke up, surly she must be hungry? Thirsty? Are you? Where are you going to? Why? For how long?"

Or maybe just slow torture.

Each new interest gave a jolt of panic that Akane might awake at any moment to end the charade. Out on the isolated roads was one thing, but in the middle of a crowded airport was another.

Thankfully Colognes incense left her docile, even in the splattering of moments she regained consciousness only to rest her head against his shoulder in a trance, before gently drifting into a child like sleep beside him. The warm body in his arms completely relaxed, he alone was responsible for this precious cargo.

What if he hadn't given her enough water or food, oh Kami what if he dropped her, had he used too much of the incense Cologne had said it was potent.. That utter dependence scared him even worse than the consequences if she woke.

It was clear that Cologne was still far from amused by his earlier attempts to dissuade Shampoo from this plan. Cologne and Shampoo having escaped to first class, he was left in coach to fend for himself against the continuing onslaught of questions, as the youngest Tendo slept peacefully in his arms.

The gaggle of admirers disappeared shortly after boarding, only to be replaced with a bubbly young woman.

Far from the disinterest he had hoped for, she chose the unoccupied seat next to him, intrigued by the girl who sprawled over half his seat as well as her own.

"The arm rest lifts in this direction Sir , it will make you both a lot more comfortable"

Mumbling his thanks, he scanned the area. Nervously he shifted in his seat .Everything seemed too closed in; the space shrank as the cabin painfully reminded him of the tiny cage Cologne used to confine his other form.

Deliberately he slowed his breathing echoing the mantras he had memorized.

"I'm not trapped, there is no door, no lock, I'm free. I can get up and walk. I'm only here for and hour. I'm not trapped" Mouse sighed as Akane unashamedly used his lap as a make shift pillow. Getting up and walking was no longer an option, unless he wanted a disgruntled Akane for the rest of the flight. It couldn't get much worse,

"Please may there be no water, just this once"

Mika beamed brightly at his obvious anxiety "Is this your first time flying Sir?"

Becoming fixed on the narrow view of sky out the window he continued muttering the comforting words under his breath. It didn't matter really Mika wasn't really wanting an answer so much as some one to talk to, or rather talk at for a while.

Sadly this mutual state of affairs did not satisfy her for long. Bored she started to question him, Mousse inwardly groaned. This time she did want and answer and refused to be put off, and so he regurgitated as much of Colognes twisted plot as he could remember, grimacing all the while.

He had began to decide that it wasn't so bad, you were given drinks and became almost invisible in the crowed room, everyone else preoccupied with their own lives. Empty meaningless chatter filled the void of silence that no one wanted to hear.

But he could have swore he heard a pin drop when Akane in her drug induced sleep whimpered

"Daddy I'm cold"

Mika's riotous laughter filled the plane as she exclaimed "Oh you're her father" as though that explained everything.

To his discomfort Akane only snuggled closer

Mouse never imagined it would be possible; but it managed to make the interrogations even more unpleasant.

China couldn't have come fast enough.

(end)

He found himself staring amazed at the centre of his reflections, legs having made the decision to walk before consulting the wandering mind.

There she sat proud to the last, even when reduced to gnawing on the ropes.

His observations did not pass by unnoticed for long.

She looked faintly embarrassed to be caught with her delicate lips around the ropes. At a loss Mousse ventured an olive branch and reached for his ear hook.

"Do you wish me to untie you?"

Uncurling from her undignified position she silently nodded, as the ropes fell from her. Stepping towards her he had thought to help her to her shaky feet the remnants of his guard duty leaving the desire to protect.

He shrank back, instead of relief in those hazel eyes she became agitated and defensive. Mousse laid the discarded towel around her shoulders, hoping she would see him as less of a threat. To his chagrin his attempt to soothe was repaid only with a suspicious glance.

"Why am I here Mousse"

The close quarters he had become accustom to was beginning to impede on his schemes. Carefully he retreated, allowing her space to adjust, casually leaning against the opposite wall as she watched expectantly.

The bright eyes girl watched his every move, weighing him up as a serious threat. It was deeply satisfying having never received much respect from his village. Part of that was his own doing; love sick actions coupled with his lack of sight made him the local entertainment. The names once thrown had stuck with a vengeance, fool, buffoon, dolt, Mousse the mad, and Mousse the mouse.

Though his eyes were lacking they still saw a great deal that others missed.

There was another way to dispose of Ranmas claim and part of it sat in front of him, if it was willing to play along.

With a devilish grin he pushed the rock for the coming landslide.

"I will let you go, for a price"

A price?

Scurrying away she slammed into the wall her mind racing, frantic with the possibilities of what this implied.

She knew this fear, she knew it well.

It touched her life the first time a boy came close to beating her in Kuno's ridiculous challenge, a surprise attack left her dazed.

That blow from some one she once trusted, confided in, the shock left her vulnerable and terrified.

This is why she didn't trust boys, perverts the lot of them .Even those you never expected it to come from she mused sadly.

Strangely enough Kuno had been her saviour and nemesis that day, defeating the "uncouth lout unworthy of her hand".

Ever since that day she threw her self into training . Anger fuelled her zeal, never trust boys , never let your guard down even for a second safety was found in brute strength.

You had to be stronger than they were faster, always better, always running, and never trust them, never again, it hurt too much.

Mousse was still smirking with distant eyes. That feral grin; it looked so out of place on his face, his goofy demeanour had distorted into something more ominous.

Panicked she searched for a weapon, her trusted mallet having abandoned her.

She was breathing hard now, the terror rising in her throat threatening to emerge as a scream; unsteadily she scrambled to her feet, limbs as jelly threatening to collapse her back into a heap.

The movement was all it took, Mousses distant eyes began to return to reality, focusing solely and her.

Utter stillness, the world appeared silent but for the harsh sounds of her breath. His eyes drank in her form as the silence stretched, dragging the tension out. In one moment of recognition it snapped like a rubber band.

Mousse was laughing. The unfocused stare that alarmed her so was gone, but his laughter aggravated and unnerved her even more.

That arrogant pompous duck was laughing hard enough to dislodge his glasses.

She saw her moment if she could will her legs to move enough for one good scissor kick, or enough strength for one mallet strike then she could.

Could what? Run, in a narrow cave, against a man who launched deadly weapons from every angle?

She felt the blood drain from her face, her worst nightmare brought to life, with no fairytale night in shining armour to rescue her.

Wide eyed she stared down her opponent and he turned away, still laughing, leaning doubled over against the cave wall as though he would fall.

"No. No, by all that is. On my honour. I did not mean" The words punctuated with roaring laughter as he sank to his knees the laughter trickling down to a chuckle.

The rapid reversal caused her to quake in frustration, the anger rekindling some of her fire previously dampened by fear.

Three options were available now

Reason pleaded to take advantage of Mousses blindness and run away, as far and fast as she could manage, eager that he would latched onto another inanimate object.

Habit was howling for hitting the martial artist, hard. Her fists shook demanding to exact satisfaction, for being the butt of yet another joke. As if her life wasn't enough of one already.

The small voice of reason was being drowned out by a louder one that desperately argued for both satisfaction and safety.

Oblivious to the rising danger Mousse made no attempt to reach for his fallen spectacles. The eerie demeanour vanished completely he didn't appear to even register her presence any more, let alone the growing battle aura.

Relaxed and amused he sat chortling occasionally at every upward glance.

Nothing made any sense. Not that much did when the Amazons were involved; they ran on logic at odds with the rest of the world.

Mousses point of view

Mousse glanced towards the roof of the cave, if the gods liked their tricks and amusements, then his life must have been an epic series.

It had been a long time since an Amazon female had ever thought him as a potential mate, capable enough a warrior to defeat her for her hand. Torn between been insulted and elation, he supposed that the Tendo's had seen his less than honourable side once to often.

Straightening himself he retorted "I'm not so fickle , Shampoo is the only woman I desire" his attempt at a serious line was ill managed the mirth he felt apparent.

To a master of the hidden weapon Akanes stance spoke volumes, she had rallied enough of her courage to fight if necessary

"I mean you no harm. Cologne may wish for you to be removed from her path, but I would like you to stay firmly in her way"

"Then what do you want?" She spat back , her fear not having left her totally her stance remained firm as she searched Mousses eyes for the truth.

The warriors spirit was highly prized by Amazons, even in outsiders yes she would be welcomed most warmly by her.

Mousse knew the honour of blood and death , he had been schooled in it since he was a child. He was well versed in the tribes ways and laws ,but unlike many he believed in them whole heartedly.

They gave all protection and justice, but the law was not always right.

The law demand a defeat. Shampoos or Ranmas, but neither could be done.

He could not bring himself to hurt Shampoo, and Ranma couldn't be beaten head on in a fight , he had seen that more than enough.

So how do you defeat an unbeatable opponent? He spent weeks studying every fight in his mind, only one had been able to beat Ranma and that was Cologne.

Then he saw her.

Nibiki.

She didn't fight but Ranma feared her.

She committed humiliations to him on a daily basis, and yet he never dared strike back.

So how?

Mousse decided to adapt his strategy , He could not win so how would she fight a battle?

Fire with fire , law with law.

The law was a way to fight and more importantly it took fighting dirty to a whole new level, if you knew where to look.

Ranma you will forsake Shampoo, even if I have to force your hand

Everything was going to fall into place.

"How would you like to be rid of Ranmas claim on Shampoo for ever"

The quiet of the night hung like smoke around the village, its stillness lulling the occupants into deep sleep, but a gentle stirring of the shadows depths showed not all occupied their beds.

Cologne did not sleep, at her age she rarely felt the need for slumber any more, not while there were more pressing matters at hand.

Drawing in nights cloak to shield her from prying eyes she departed from her homestead.

It was a sad fact of human nature. No mater how good a leader you were, how well you served, there was always another lying in wait to take your place. If you didn't watch your back they'd have a knife for it.

"Give me a fool any day," she muttered to the empty air "those are easier to handle"

The scenery flowed to unkempt wilderness as she rocketed between the trees, rigorously watching for sight of her entourage. Obstinate, that they should have no part in this confrontation.

Shampoo was accounted for; she slept on undisturbed, helped along by a mild sedative in the evening drink, to ease her troubled mind.

It had been astoundingly easy, far too easy if the child was to take her position as elder one day. Sometimes she wondered about her youngest grandchild, despite her many attempts to educate the girl she only focused on her narrow goal.

One day she would gradually learn there was more to this tribe and being a matriarch, but for now her ignorance was a small blessing. Silently she prayed the child would learn this lesson soon, before she was left alone to face a greater challenge that she could imagine.

For now though the girl could sleep, peacefully dreaming of a wish unfulfilled.

Cologne stared scrutinizing at the home she had left for so long, it had flourished. Lingzĭ had guided the village well in her absence but Lingzĭ 's nature had also allowed fault to creep in. Much to Colognes annoyance her once ferocious guards had some how disappeared.

Left in their place were warriors, with out the skill to even register a clumsy vault over the outer wall. This could not be borne; yes, things had become too lax if the sweet nectar wine was any indication to the guards' attitudes. Sighing in disappointment she made her way to the make shift prison.

Her thoughts turned to vexation again when another youth no longer at his post, or more accurately not exactly where he should be, though considering it was Mousse it was a small mercy he was in the vicinity of the mountain.

Stretching forth her awareness she felt for his presence, finding it deep below the earth's surface.

What ever the boy was doing down there it amused him, relieved she continued onwards, as long as the boy was out of sight, he was out of danger, for now at least.

The forest became denser as she reached its heart, restricting her movements among the trees.

Curiosity ran deep in her line, and she pondered on the young man's situation, despite Mousse's failings, loosing himself in a mine was unlikely, and dangerous given his limited sight. Something was off, but she would need a greater amount of focus to ease her worry, returning to her routine perch atop her cane, Cologne descended to the beaten earth track.

There was no need to hurry in this venture anyway, and the night air was refreshing to old bones.

Sensing again for Mousse she felt his chi, along with the young Tendo's.

Slowing her pace she focused but not much could be determined at this distance. What was the boy up to this time?

After a moments thought she made her decision.

No, she absolutely no idea what the boy was doing abandoning his post in the middle of the night.

With an attractive young woman, who was probably very much aware of her mortality.

Cologne felt her senses stretch to their limit as girl's chi had spiked very rapidly for some reason.

Feeling the inclination to investigate she prodded further, the girl was very much awake and very grateful for something, if a little confused, but a distinct tinge of happiness in her aura.

No, nothing could be concluded from the boys' actions, or at least nothing that would be remarked upon to the other village elders. He must have just wandered off again his sight being so bad, or was checking up on his captive or…..

Cackling she reflected on her own mischievous girlhood, sighing with bitter-sweet memories, she allowed her senses to dim, the keen awareness tricking into nothingness once more. Youth was always wasted on the young.

She did not have the heart to interfere and now could do nothing more for the outsider than give the couple some privacy.

In the twilight hours she had sometimes dwelled on her proclamation disallowing Mousses suit to Shampoo forever, his attachment to Shampoo would be poisonous for the boy, they would never be a good match for the tribes needs.

That one sentence brought the boy much pain, even if he none so tactfully ignored it, hoping in youths foolishness that she might one day change her mind.

While Mousse could not have Shampoo by her own judgement, she could see no reason why should he not find comfort in the arms of another. The girls last hours would be pleasant enough; perhaps it would even encourage Mousse to seek out another girl to bestow his limitless affection to, although that would complicate matters if he sought to protect the outsider.

If the gods sought to complicate matters in that way so be it. Better to lose face and see the boy happy, than hurt and vengeful.

The forest opened up once again to reveal a small hut.

Unremarkable in any way, but it gave off an unnatural sensation of abandonment, and loneliness. It spread to feel like whole area willed the intruder to leave, silently and solemnly as though they were departing a neglected grave.

Instead she approached closer; it took a well trained mind to notice the little details against the onslaught. The abandonment that prevailed did not disguise from old eyes that the hut was well cared for, or that the 'random' over growing plants were medicinal herbs along trailing wires.

"You have continued improving your skills I see, but you are still a hundred years to early to deceive me. Come forth and show the respect proper to an elder of the tribe that birthed you"

The door creaked open, showering the garden in watery fire light.

"Hello Grandmother"

The voice was subtle, and smooth perfectly suited to the graceful woman who bore it.

Out of the corner of her eye Cologne caught the first glimpse of this granddaughter in many years. Now her full height she had filled out her once lithe form, with eyes that sparkled with unreadable intent. Her hair hung shorter now it's glossy ends barely greeting her broad shoulders, held together with a single embroidered red ribbon.

It was like staring into the past, once again her daughter stood before her, with defiant eyes and pursed lips. Demanding to know why couldn't she do that , go there, wander off with that boy.

"Always a challenge. It would have been polite to greet your elder first"

"And so I did, as you did not respect my request for solitude Grandmother, what is it you want"

The cock sure attitude was still there as she leaded into the door frame smiling , deliberately blocking the entrance.

The clearing seamed quieter now, emptier , colder.

Neither moved except to put on forced smiles, and Cologne took the opportunity to study her Grandchild more closely.

To guess at her age would be to say mid twenties, her face still smooth and un-marred by time or battle with deep grey eyes that sparkled like silver and a rich full mouth.

Her outfit was odd as always, miss matched clothes worn by outsiders mostly, but all practical and warm. The abominable clunking boots she had once tried to discreetly dispose of still laced tightly onto her feet. No decoration save one large drop of amber that hung from and earlobe. The smile, it was the same, it had never changed since she birthed her , a calculating knowing look now adorned her face, the child wonder she had love so much was gone with the passing of so many years so many angry words.

A sweet smell drifted through the door, Cologne broke the silence

"Daughter you can either stand out in the cold all night with the smell of burning , or lift those sweet cakes your so fond of away from the fire"

"I'll assume you will want some to Grandmother" The bitter reply replaced the smile with a stern set jaw, and a look to say that the past had not been forgotten or forgiven

"After everything that has passed you wish me to show you respect, let you into my home, and to share the little food that I have"

"And tea"

"I've never did like the cold" turning she made her way inside leaving the door ajar, for Cologne to follow. Dumb founded Cologne waited for an invitation it was unusual for this child to give up, or back down without a fight. "Well are you going to stand there all night" she shot back over her shoulder "If you came all this way to stand in the vegetable patch be my guest"

Exasperated and irritated Cologne, reminded herself of why she came, and followed in.

Often you could tell much about a person from their dwelling, the longer they stayed the loader it shouted out. This house was deafening, her granddaughter had spent much time here. As deceptive and complex as its owner, from the outside a simple wooded shack surrounded by forest and plants, inside you could see the bricks it was fortified with, and why there were trees so close to the house, hiding its true size from view.

Cologne followed the sound of fire into the main room, room held a scant amount of furniture scattered in a haphazard fashion. Only the small desk and stool showed evidence of recent activity, the two overstuffed armchairs looked unused. Gathered around the hearth, there presence was an oddity save a small table between, with two cups. It appeared this visit was not wholly unexpected if unwelcome. And lead her eyes glanced over the trinkets mounted along the bare walls.

"Just things I've picked up on my travels, amongst the barbarians Grandmother" Inwardly Cologne winced at her daughters disgusted tone, repeating old habits some best forgotten.

"Chairs are over there, I'll fetch the water" Abruptly she stalked into the next room, puzzled Cologne followed, the adjoining room held a well in the centre of its stone floor, a large iron kettle hung in place of a bucket , with a flap of metal over the spout.

"Found it when I started building, it's useful in the winter"

And if you're besieged thought Cologne solicitously, this house had been built to withstand a small attack; even now she still expected one.

The outskirts of the room were taken up by the cluttered work bench, book shelves and cupboards littered the remaining wall space. Pungent smells revealed that the cupboards were no doubt filled with small vials and potion ingredients, it was good to see that the girl had kept some of her traditional hobbies.

Glittering moonlight entered though the ceiling, at first Cologne assumed this area was open to the air. A prudent early tradition for potion experimentation. In wonderment Cologne saw the night sky with a spattering of raindrops that sparkled in the moonlight, a glass ceiling. Cologne marvelled at this unusual addition to the homestead, the clarity made it look as thing as rice paper.

There was no mistaking the happiness in her Grandchild s face as she glanced up with pride momentarily forgetting her animosity

"Wonderful isn't it, It's my own design, strong as steel I made a special coating that toughens it. I asked some of the more talented glass makers to assist me to form the dome but they don't know why. It's magical to work in as the sunsets light shimmers around the room "

The brief moment of joy faded while the tea pot was hoisted back from the well with a clatter.

"I'm pleased you still have some joy in your life child" The gentle comment did not have it's intended effect,

"you could have it in the village to if you weren't so opposed to progress" The torrent of this well versed topic stopped unexpectedly, as she froze her body crumpling together reminiscent of the small child she had once been, holding the kettle rope like a life line.

"I'll prepare the tea in here Grandmother, please wait by the fire , the sweet cakes are there waiting" The steady tone gave way to a pleading note as Cologne returned to the fireside.

The kettle was brought forth ,it had not taken her long to regain the tight control she held over her emotions her unease recovered with the illusion of quite confidence. Cologne eyed the monstrous kettle now full to the point of sloshing but prevented by the closed off spout, which was much to her amusement only removed with a great deal fiddly pulling and quite cursing on her Granddaughters part. It was pleasant to watch on lazily as someone else prepared the tea and cups, a task which Cologne always did herself , not risking a repeat of Mr. Part timers first attempt. Shuddering with the memory Cologne made a mental note to add another padlock to the potion cupboard, the bubbling marks still hadn't come out of the floor.

A faint ticking echoed around the room and it's uneasy silence, unsure if she should attempt to compliment her the house instead Cologne chose the pleasant aroma filled the room as the kettle began to simmer over the fire.

The compliment fell on deaf ears as the woman was deep in thought. Restlessly she had fidgeted while awaiting the kettles steam; it was as if she couldn't force herself to remain in one position for longer than a moment. The kettle nearly over boiling was a welcome relief for her daughter to leave her seat.

The tea was good, a local recipe she had missed much in the passed months, not that Cologne would have given up all the fun she had with sonny boy while away but, it was a part of home she had dearly missed, you just couldn't get the right herbs outside this region.

The excuse to moved had not settled her Grandchild , until finally relented to an urge to reach below her chair fetching an emerald coloured bottle, the contents defiantly not tea. Adding a generous amount to her own cup she settled once again, swirling the cup in her hand distractingly.

The amber liquid swirled around the chipped cup in a lazy motion as her Granddaughter stared intensely through her.

Shifting in the overstuffed armchair Cologne unsuccessfully tried to bury her annoyance at this scrutiny.

"I did say tea daughter"

"While I did not, Grandmother" The sentence held an edge of quiet menace while she continued to rotate the cup in hand her opaque stare now fix on the small vortex "feel free to have the rest of it, there is a Thermos you can use to take it back to the village with you. "

It was a tempting offer, no one else Cologne had met in her life brew as good a tea as this, it was a shame she refused to hand over the recipe.

"So tell me why you have come here, after so long. "

The urge to fondly tease her like she had done decades ago, to once again glimpse the child she had lost

"Do you not know why" she asked with a genuine smile

Not even the crackling fire filled the unanswered silence.

Cologne watched on sympathetically as she became more sullen, the hut darkened to reflect its owner's mood. This child had been alone too long, even when she was in the village.

It was a cruel punishment for those not naturally loners, it gave to much time to mull over dark thought and slights. Cologne remained stoic within the silence; she came here with a promise to listen first, not to demand.

The fire lit her features with a muted glow as her subtlety tilted her head back, and steadily drained the cup.

"I had wished to speak with you with a level head"

Cologne bristled she had planned to be lenient despite the persistent disrespect, no one dared challenge her with such dismissive insolence, and not even brash young sonny boy would dare. Using her cane she moved the half empty bottle further across the table far from easy reach.

"Since when did we speak to one another, yell, argue, debate possibly, but never a civil conversation .At least not since I came of age" The evenness in the girls tone was chilling

"You forget your place, and the respects due an elder matriarch daughter"

"My place elder? My place, I have none as you so succinctly saw to" With exaggerated care she refilled the empty cup "You have asked and I have given, it would be at least civil for you to answer the one question I have asked"

The hostility was heartbreaking Cologne had hope one day to mend this rift before it became insurmountable. "Can't a Grandmother see that her Granddaughter is alive"

"When it's you no, Since you will not answer my previous question may I ask then about the poor girl you've unwillingly dragged here, or would you rather talk about Mouse asking to become my apprentice"

"So which will it be the boy or the girl, no answer? That's a first. Well I guess then we she discuss the boy first Grandmother. I am assuming that he is the predominant reason for this untimely visit" The satisfied smirk graced had features once again; sighing Cologne despondently acknowledged her other reason for returning.

"Yes, I have come to discuss Mousse also" Cologne had hoped, wished that she would assume the visit had been to spend time with her alone than automatically suspect an ulterior motive. She was not proud of her evasiveness; nevertheless it was necessary to avoid being caught out in an omission. This was not young Shampoo after all; it never had been easy to distract this one.

As uncomfortable as it was this admission had pleased her, perhaps a little too much, that attitude of hers was getting cocky again.

"You have objections to this Grandmother; the boy is as much an outcast to the clan as I am. Why should you deny him a home and training" The challenge had been laid out, and so Cologne suspected had a trap.

"I know you are still heated about the council's decision, my decision despite how much time has passed. Then that is my doing, my burden, and I bare it. But do not mistake me in this child; I will not stand for you manipulating Mousse for your own ends. If you seek to challenge me, if bloodshed is the only way you wish to settle this; then I am here. And it will change nothing" For an instant Cologne though she saw a flicker of emotion pass in those unreadable eyes.

"You have grown fond of this child then" the sorrowful whisper was barely audible as the girl broke eye contact and stared into the fire.

The concealed hurt moved Cologne to keep her voice gentle, it was still hard preventing herself from consoling the girl, as an olive branch she refill booth cups with the cooling tea.

"I will not see him used as a pawn in your games"

"No he's reserved for your game isn't he Elder. So when did you start reading his letters." She snorted in frustration, sneering "You speak to me about manipulation that is rich, when you use everyone around you for your own satisfaction."

"Understand this you may be my kin, but I won't see either of my charges harmed because of my dealings with you"

Snapping out of her melancholy, the reply was indignant and waspish

"Except what harm you do yourself. Tell me Grandmother does Shampoo still think that curse was an accident. It was sweet when that simpleton waved to the crowd, thinking the whole village turned out just to see its disgraced 'champion' go to be retrained at the springs." Colognes anger didn't faze her as she reached for the poker and stoked the dying flames to life again.

"Come now Grandmother, the irony really is laughable. I don't need to seek and plot revenge, I never did, I already have it. If you ever do release your control over the title of matriarch she will be eaten alive and you know it to." Concern welled up in Colognes heart to hear the fears she had continued to bury, being spoke so plainly. The resentful mocking tone ceased and she again spoke quietly, reverently

"Shampoo will never blossom into the woman you hoped she would be, and you know it. If she had you wouldn't have kept her hidden away so long. Shampoo cannot be Qiaolian, no matter how much of her spirit you want to see in her"

Cologne felt the paralysing grief at the mention of her name; her throat closed off refusing to air the pain of her loss, not trusting herself to speak Cologne stared at her withered hands resting on her cane. The bitter words spoken had a little too much truth in them. Shampoo was not yet ready for the responsibilities of a matriarch she might never be, and she was slowly running out of time, as Cologne was quickly running out of options.

After a while Cologne regained enough composure to ask "Where does Mousse fit into this, if not for gain"

Surprisingly her face softened as she spoke, her voice tender and genuine

" The boy is caught in the middle no matter what the outcome of your plan; yes I know what you are up to in Nerima, even if the others haven't guessed. It is a dangerous game Grandmother, whichever outcome fate decides someone will be harmed. Don't look so panicked Grandmother , for now I have no intention of informing the other elders of what I know" Cologne sought to look in her Granddaughters eyes, eager to see the truth in them.

"As for where he fits in, his apprenticeship has nothing to do with your plans. We have conversed for some time, I offered to teach him what I knew he has been inclined to accept. If you allow him to leave that stifling cafe that is. I hold no love for Shampoo but I will not seek to harm Mousse, if you ask I will swear an oath to that effect. With you he must remain bound and tied to the village, with me those bonds are loosened."

Cologne discreetly shuffled back , into her seat barley breathing for fear it would stop the word that tumbled carelessly from those lips.

"You question my motives. Here they are :that boy was the only one who never cared about me being an outcast. Never sunned what I could teach, his mind is less insular than those who would seek only to use me and he has talent that needs to be carefully nurtured. I will not protect that cat's-paw of yours. The consequence of your actions can fall on her head alone for all I care, as my apprentice he will be shielded from the worst of the fallout long after your protection of Shampoo has gone"

With a calm air Cologne rose and bowed deeply to her shocked Granddaughter, exiting without further question.

On the road back she contemplated what she had seen in those silvery orbs, satisfied she passed over the remaining guards like a ghost without thought. Now back to her own home she gazed upon the sleeping Shampoos face until sleep called her to. This night had not been what she had feared, lighting incense in the small shrine she sent up a wordless prayer that the future wouldn't be either.