Instead of compared to the original series where Ryoga followed Ranma to Jusenkyo, I edited it to fit the romance between him and Ranko. I see Ryoga's mother as passive aggressive and short tempered. An open minded woman with modern marriage and martial arts outlook

I also just wanted to see Ryoga call Genma out on his crappy parenting style

Ryoga sat sulkily on the porch, his head rested on his lap as he stared into oblivion. A heavyweight of shame resting on his shoulders, his heart aching with anger and hurt. He tried to close his eyes and wish with all his might that he would wake from this nightmare and find that it never happened, but of course it was simply a happy dream. He gripped his hands into fists and restrained the desire to punch the porch as a form of anger management. Why did all these screw ups have to happen to him? He was like a bad luck magnet that the world liked to mock relentlessly. This was all Kuno's fault, if he had just backed off and stopped harassing Ranko this never would have happened. His curse never would have been revealed he could act as though nothing ever changed. How could he stand by while his fiance and crush was being harassed and hounded by an upperclassmen with a narcissistic personality disorder and an inability to accept rejection? How could he ignore that another man was trying to steal his crush from him without consideration of her feelings? But Kuno being the obliviously arrogant moron that he was, they fell into the pool and caused him to revert. Luckily neither Akane nor Ranko had any idea of what happened to him, so they were in the clear. But what would happen when Ranko figured it out when she learned of his cursed form. She would laugh at him, how could she marry a pig boy? Why did this have to happen to him? She would call him a pervert, a freak, a weakling, god he could hear all the names echoing in his head like a chant. The wicked laughter and the mockery he would face. He felt tears spiking his eyes but he fought them back, he refused to cry like a child over this. But his heart ached so much with the weight of his frustrations and burden.

"Ryoga, honey you've been fixated on staring at the sky for hours. Do you wish to relieve your stresses onto me?" Asami asked gently. As his mother, it was her job to give him worldly advice as to her child to help him through the difficulty of life. She knew he had been stressed about his future, being a senior in high school and she had already looked at colleges with him for his future. Of course she expected him to continue on the family line of the Hibiki Dojo, but she didn't want him to focus purely on that. He had so many opportunities for careers and she wanted him to take full advantage of every opportunity.

Ryoga shifted, his mother had always known of the curse and never thought less of him. It had been his fault due to his desire to become stronger via training and his clumsiness caused an accident. He had broken down sobbing the day he told her, transforming in front of her and apologizing profusely for his failure. Instead of berating him, she simply held her son as he sobbed, comforting his distress. There was no known cure aside from bathing in the spring of drowned man. Forced to reside switching between both forms until he was able to find the antidote "Mum… you remember that training trip I took. To Jusenkyo" he mumbled. Why had he been so foolish? He had risked everything and now dragged her along for the ride, having to alter his life around his curse and using his mother's protection. Always using a fake sickness to get off school and using lies to hide the truth as to not be discovered. She knew her son was embarrassed of his curse and she never questioned his decision.

Asami's expression became firm, she knew her son experienced difficulty with his curse. Hiding it and fearing how people would perceive him because of it. Ryoga had never perceived what could have happened by visiting the springs, their lack of education on the effects having never been explained. Pitying her sons misfortune but doing everything possible to help him. "Indeed, that was some time ago. But we have coped as best we can, though I am finding new connections as to the cure every day" she encouraged.

"This guy at our school, Kuno. He's got this obsession with Ranko, I fought him cos y' know Ranko's my fiancé, she's the love of my life. Ever since we were kids and this jerk wants to steal her away. But during this fight, I got distracted and…." He trailed off. He was avoiding the subject and becoming distracted, his head was a mess and he could feel himself becoming anxious. He had coped until now, nobody ever noticing anything wrong and none the wiser about him skipping school. But now the secret was out and to the one person he had hoped would never find out about it.

The pieces fell into place and she immediately understood what was causing him so much grief "You transformed into a pig" Asami finished. This was a difficult situation, wondering how many other people had seen her son transform or if it had simply been the one boy. How would she create an excuse to divert attention so as to make sure nobody suspected her sons curse. Ryoga nodded in silence, sensing the coldness in her tone but never questioning it. "I see, did this boy or Ranko see you revert?" she asked sharply. They had kept it as a family secret for so long, praying it would be cured before anyone learned of it.

Ryoga shook his head adamantly "Kuno's too stupid to understand and Ranko arrived after I changed. She's got no idea about any of it, but… I'm scared of what she will think" he babbled. Ranko was an intelligent person, incredibly stubborn, energetic and when need be sly, but under her flaws she had a big heart and was fiercely protective of those she cared for. If he explained his cursed form, she may assume he was a pervert and would refuse to accept an explanation. The last thing he wanted was for Ranko to reject him.

Asami sighed, understanding her sons conflict on the matter, this did complicate things. But Ranko appeared to be an understanding and caring young woman, she wouldn't think less of Ryoga for this. "Don't you fret honey, I'll take care of things" she reassured him. She would have a woman to woman chat with Ranko about this and fix the mess that had been caused.

Ranko entered the living room with a confused expression, it wasn't often Mrs Hibiki ever asked to speak to her, she was a very relaxed woman and allowed Ranko to live her life but rely on her when she needed moral support. Since being seperated from her mother, it was nice to have a maternal female figure in her life to fill the gap that was created when she was forced to leave home. "Um… you wanted to see me, ma'am," she asked solemnly. She knew she was rambunctious and rowdy at times, but showed a lot of restraint and attempted to tone down her nature in front of Mrs Hibiki. Not wanting to cause the woman trouble, as she would be her mother in law someday.

Asami smiled, two cups of tea sat in front of her. She knew Ranko enjoyed sweets so she purchased some mochi for the occasion. "Please Ranko, take a seat dear" she replied politely. This would not be an easy conversation to have but she knew it had to be done for the better good. She didn't expect it to be an easy conversation, as it was a strange tale to reflect on. Ranko obeyed, sitting opposite her and helping herself to one of the mochis, popping one into her mouth with delight. "Ryoga has informed me of your harassment from another classmate at school" Asami replied coldly. She wished Ranko had said something about it earlier, had she known someone was giving her daughter in-law trouble she would have done everything in her power to make sure he was separated from Ranko. No woman liked to be pursued by a man whom she had no interest in and didn't accept rejection, it made them uncomfortable and endangered. Martial arts was used to protect someone and if it meant Kuno wasn't bothering her any more, she saw no harm in it.

Ranko froze, a chill running down her spine. She had hoped to push past this and make sure Ryoga's mother never learned of this. She never wanted to give the wrong impression to her mother in law. She had remembered as kids when Ukyo had been attached to her, he had been such a sweet boy and she really cared about him. But she had never had anything but brotherly love for him. She missed him so much and wondered how he was coping these days. But she had devoted her heart to Ryoga and the two of them growing as martial artists before considering their marriage. "I… I never encouraged him. I… Ryoga is… Kuno's just such a creep. He never seems to understand that I don't…" she babbled frantically.

"Ranko dear, please don't exert yourself. I am aware that you harbour affections for my son, his anger at another male showing interest is proof of that. You two will make a fine couple and adorable grandchildren someday" Asami praised. Ryoga would undoubtedly dote on Ranko as a wife, greeting her with kisses and affection. He would spoil their future children with love and should he have a daughter, would become protective over her. Whether Ryoga was a house husband or Ranko a housewife she didn't mind. So long as they were happy in their future marriage.

Ranko blushed, she knew Asami was as eager for their future marriage as her father. However, she didn't push it on them as much but eased them into their future as betrothed. Compare to her father, Mrs Hibiki never pressured them or berated her when other people got between them. She understood Ranko was an attractive young lady and would gain admirers, but she knew her heart was devoted to her son. It was so easy to speak to her and explain herself, compared to Genma's intolerance.

"I was referring to after the fight. I learned from my son that you discovered a small black piglet and adopted him as your companion" Asami explained. She could only imagine the expression on Ranko's face when she saw him for the first time. Admittedly, though she knew it was a struggle for her son, his cursed form was rather adorable. However, he was ashamed of that reminder, finding it emasculating as a young man. So she didn't speak of it in front of him, but the thought always remained on her mind when he transformed.

Ranko perked up, she had hoped to gossip with Mrs Hibiki on her newfound pet. One of her rare girlish traits being her love of cute animals "Oh yeah, P-chan. Is Ryoga jealous! I mean, I just felt sorry for the little guy, I never meant any harm!" she panicked. She couldn't abandon the poor thing alone, some kids at the school could be real jerks. They may bully him and beat him up, she couldn't stand people who abused the weak for fun. Sure, she could be bitchy sometimes but to not towards people who never deserved it.

Asami smiled, she had expected this reaction from Ranko, only showing how deep her affections for her son lay. Young love was truly something precious and to be admired, experiencing such strong feelings at such a strange time. "Ryoga won't mind about the piglet, that was what I was hoping to reflect on. You see…. That pig is my son" she sighed. She had expected her to panic and she would not hold such a reaction against her, it was a lot to take in. Ranko blinked, her face warping into an expression of shock, nearly spilling her tea onto herself as she bumped into the table. Unable to produce coherent words from her mouth, losing balance and nearly collapsing from shock. Placing all these little newfound connections together, like solving a giant puzzle. That piglet and Ryoga were the same beings? But how could that be? Asami sighed, this would be a profound and yet fascinating tale indeed. She herself thought that such stories only existed in the pages of a fairy tale novel she would have read as a child. "Many years ago, during his middle school years. To prepare for your engagement, my son decided to attend a martial arts retreat in china to improve his skills. But being the clutz that he was, he fell into one of the pools located at the retreat" she frowned. He took his honour as a martial artist seriously and wanted to be able to protect Ranko. Knowing that their may be dangers in their future she couldn't face alone, but his pride had blinded him.

Ranko stared in awe, she never knew Ryoga had gone to these lengths all to become a suitable partner for her. She was rather impressed that he had travelled to China, he had never mentioned it. It must have been a vast and beautiful country to experience, admittedly she was a little jealous. But that wasn't important right now, the story still had an ending and it would be rude to become distracted while Asami was still in the middle of her tale. Her mother had taught her better than to ignore crucial life lessons.

"During that time my son fell into one of the pools, developing a curse that until now has remained a secret. To prevent it from being discovered, during rainy days I would keep him home from school. However, you found out anyway". Some matters happened for a reason and it seemed rather fortuitous that Ranko was the first outsider who discovered his curse first. Unfortunately, she knew of no other people whom had also developed a similar curse so so she couldn't ask them for advice on the matter.

Ranko blinked, this story sounded familiar, a cursed form. A pool…but what did this have to do with. Oh crap! She pointed out a hand shakily, a nervous smile on her face "Wait… you mean… P-chan is…" she stammered. She wanted to pinch herself as to make sure she wasn't dreaming and this was all an accumulated delusion brought on by stress. But from the serious expression on Mrs Hibiki's face, she knew that it was too good to be true. She remembered her father mentioning it as training, but luckily her mother had convinced him otherwise, using her sword just to make sure he didn't attempt to do so behind her back.

Asami nodded, this was indeed an unpleasant story to remember, but Ranko was taking the news well which was a relief "Hai, your pet pig is my son's cursed form" she scoffed. She was glad Ranko had become attached to Ryoga's cursed form so easily, his worry of being rejected could be eased. However, their relationship would become complicated because of it. Having to lie about it if they were ever caught in public and Ryoga happened to transform.

Ranko felt her brain shut down as she tried to process all this, so before they began to attend high school together as fiances. During middle school, he had gone on a trip to prove himself as a man and ended up cursed as a cute piglet. It was such a stupid thing to do and yet it seemed only someone like Ryoga was capable of such idiocy. If he hadn't gone alone someone could have helped him, but he had insisted that it would be healing and he would come back a more honourable man. But ultimately all he had done was make his life far more complicated than necessary. "So… lemme guess. No cure has been found yet?" she huffed.

Asami rested her face on her palm, feeling a headache forming "There is a fabled spring of drowned man that would help ease the curse and he would no longer transform. But so far we have found no such spring. So I keep researching and helping him cope in my own way" she vented. As a mother it was her job to protect her son and alleviate any strains that may burden him. But she felt so guilty that after all this time of research she still had no positive links that would bring them closer to ridding him of the curse.

Ranko didn't know what to say, she could understand why Ryoga would never want to tell her. He was a sensitive person like that and hated showing any sign of weakness that would allow him to be led astray. But at the same time, she felt so awful that he had harboured this all alone for so long. A painful loneliness that he had carried with shame hoping that she would never found out and leave him. "That idiot… how could he think…." She trailed off. She slowly got to her feet, she needed to speak to Ryoga about this matter.

Ryoga curled up on his side, his hands rested underneath his head for comfort. He knew his mother would be speaking to Ranko about his curse at this moment. A pang of fear running through him, expecting her to run to the hills. Of course, she would be freaked out, what normal girl wouldn't react to a fiancé with a curse like that. How the hell could they have a normal relationship like this? He loved Ranko, he loved her with all of his heart, but now things were even messier than before all of this. Ranko had her own complications to worry about, being forced to live with him while attending the same school as classmates. Being raised by a misogynistic and incompetent father who was a poor excuse for a martial artist and parent. Unable to see her mother and only harbour the letters she had sent, along with a picture. Forced to repress her womanhood and femininity in order to appear presentable as the family heir. He had only made things worse in the long run. Suddenly, he felt cold water being poured atop his head, his body flinching in reaction. Feeling himself reverting into his pig form before he could run away and hide. His body morphing into a small black piglet incapable of speech. Feeling himself about to scream in panic, but instead found his cries reverting to the loud squeals of a pig instead of a human.

Ranko watched as Ryoga morphed from a human body into the small black piglet she found at school. She hated doing this to him but she needed to learn the truth. His clothes dropping limply before her into a crumpled pile as if he had turned invisible. His mother had indeed been telling the truth, it really was a heavy burden to bear and watching it uncover was as shocking as the story itself. How Asami had raised her son alone with this knowledge she would never know, but she respected her even more now because of it. Soon she spotted movement and a small black pig appeared from underneath the clothes, looking confused and angry. "So… it's true. You do turn into a pig" she mumbled.

Ryoga's gaze shot up, pain-filled his heart as he saw Ranko looming over him holding a bucket of cold water. Why would she do this to him and how would she even know? I mean of course she would know about his transformation but not of how to trigger it? He had hoped to keep some things from her to prevent her any embarrassment. He just wasn't prepared for her to see it in person yet, as to not worry her with his well-being so that she would become overly protective. Ranko smiled softly, reaching out her hand to softly pat his head. He was even cuter than the first time she saw him as a pig. This was the man she loved, and she would help him through this no matter what. Ryoga softened under her touch, but he hung his head sadly. How could she love him when he was so pathetic? He knew it was too good to be true. "I just ran a bath, fancy a dip?" she chuckled.

Ranko slowly dipped Ryoga into the tub, sitting in front of the bathwater waiting for Ryoga to come bursting out and yell at her for being so bitchy. She was prepared for it, after all she forced him to transform by surprise. She had made sure the bathwater wasn't too hot as to not burn him. But then the troubling thought of whether or not he could swim as a piglet flashed through her mind, causing her to fear she may have drowned him by mistake. There was silence before the bathwater began to bubble, soon Ryoga came bursting out of the bathtub. Gasping for air as he plunged out of the hot water with a look of shock. His gaze met Ranko's, her beautiful blue eyes filled with sadness. He hated seeing her wearing that expression, bowing his head to avert his gaze under his fringe. They had so much they needed to discuss, yet he couldn't bring himself to speak. Though it was childish, he wished to just sit here and sulk instead, dwelling on his frustration and helplessness to prevent his transformation. He never thought that showing her such a personal side of himself could be so frightening "I… so you know. I'm guessing… my mum…" he trailed off. He had known this girl since they were but kids and yet he felt so naked, more than in just the literal sense.

Ranko nodded, averting her gaze as to look at the floor instead of his body. The years of training had done Ryoga well, defining his abs and form into something appealing to the eye. It did bring her a sense of pride that this would be the man she would one day marry "Yeah, she told me all about the retreat, about how it happened…". They could at least look at this with a sense of humour to make it easier to cope with. It was strange she would admit, but there were worse trials for a couple to endure together. No relationship was without its hardships or its trials, this was just one of many they would have to endure together.

Ryoga scoffed, wishing he could just fade away into foam within the bathwater so he wouldn't have to face her. Ranko was the strongest martial artist he had ever met and he kept wanting to grow alongside her. But now he had fallen back far behind her with a hindrance that would never allow him to catch up "I… I just didn't want you to see me looking so pathetic" he mumbled. She had always been able to stand up for herself, but he was childish in the sense he wanted her to rely on him occasionally. But now that she knew of his curse, she would be the one to protect him.

Ranko frowned, he hadn't asked for this curse nor for the outcomes that came with it. But he had coped all this time and that was by no means pathetic, that was seriously cool. Most people would have freaked out and locked themselves away, but he still balanced a normal life with his curse "What do you mean pathetic?" she snapped. She wasn't going to let Ryoga insult and demean himself over something he couldn't control. Hopefully, when he learned of her Neko form, he would be as understanding towards her. He was a better man than Kuno or her father ever hoped to be, and that was something he should always boast about.

Ryoga glared at her, his brown eyes filled with anger and guilt. "You call my curse being a man! I foolishly travelled to china out of my weak masculinity only to become cursed in a pig's body! How can you marry a man who transforms into an animal!" he yelled. Just what kind of future would they have with this curse, if people did find out what would they think of them? How many enemies would use this against them? In his cursed form he was faster but he was undeniably weak, if she ever got hurt what would he be able to do? He'd disappointed his late father, his mother and now Ranko, he felt like a failure.

Ranma stiffened, gripping her hands on her lap. How could he be so stupid? She grabbed his face forcing him to look at her, she could feel herself trembling and wanting to cry. "How the hell were you to know?! They never explained what happened in the brochure! You didn't know what the outcome would be. This curse isn't you all the time it's just cold water! We just have to find a damn cure right?! I'm still your fiancé and I'm gonna help you break it!" she snapped defiantly. This was only permanent until they found a way to revert him back to normal, his mother was already focusing on that and she would act as an assistant. She was his future wife and they were a team, how could she abandon him?

Ryoga blushed, his face heating up from more than just the hot water. Ranko was the most amazing woman he had ever met. Most women would have run for the hills knowing all of this. But not her, she puffed up her chest, confronted him and stated she was going to help him find a cure. She didn't belittle him, she didn't laugh at him, she didn't mock him and she didn't fear him. He felt as though a weight had been lifted from his chest, allowing him to breathe and think clearly "So… you don't mind?" he mumbled.

Ranko smiled shyly "I mean, worrying over cold water will be a difficulty. But I can just skip when you do and we can work around it. It's not permanent, and besides, P-chan is kinda cute" he agreed. She had been devoted to Ryoga since childhood, becoming his fiance was the happiest moment of her life. To give up now would be a waste and unfair to either of them. She would be able to convince Asami to alter her life to keep an eye on Ryoga during his change, but her feelings for him wouldn't change. A woman in love was not easy to be convinced otherwise, love was the strongest emotion on the planet, only rivalled by hatred or jealousy.

Ryoga felt as though he was floating on a cloud as if he needed another reason to love Ranko. His affections grew to an alarming rate, wanting nothing more than to kiss her at that moment. However, he then realised he was naked, albeit covered by the bathwater preventing her from seeing anything. He had never really been unclothed in front of her before. If things were less awkward, he would have happily given in to his instincts and tasted her lips, ingraining the memory into his mind to treasure "Um… can you… pass me a towel…" he stammered.

Ranko blinked, feeling her face flush as she remembered Ryoga was naked. But it wasn't as if she was being inappropriate, why wouldn't she stare at her future husband? But she would respect his privacy and desire to be alone. He had a lot to consider, this wasn't exactly something they could just ignore after all. But the stresses and fear had been lessened indeed, glad that his mother reached out to her on the matter. "You… go ahead and bathe. I'll help your mum with dinner" she argued. Leaving Ryoga alone with his thoughts.

"RANKO! What is this I hear about another boy being involved with you!" Genma yelled abruptly, gripping his daughter by the shoulders. How could she ruin this opportunity for herself, after all the effort he had put towards stabilizing her future. He had trained with Asami and Soun as a youth and promised his daughter would marry her son. They had bonded so well as children and carried such affection for each other it seemed perfect. Ranko had gone to school with Soun's youngest and middle children, Nabiki and Akane. Befriending them and developing allies who helped her improve her martial arts. But now she was allowing an older senior in high school to pursue her and devote his love to her. Was she so selfish she was willing to risk his hard work on some brief fling? He was aware she was young and it came with being carefree and making endless mistakes. He didn't take her training only for her to ruin it by allowing herself to enter an affair with someone else. He had hoped to call Ryoga his son in law, he had never had a son and only bore one child with Nodoka despite desiring more. Indeed, she was a capable fighter and a skilled martial artist, but her focus and understanding of the sacrifices he made were endlessly frustrating.

Ranko glared at him, as per usual Genma was overthinking and misunderstanding a situation. He had selective hearing and blocked out all he didn't want to hear of the story. He claimed to love her as his only child yet berated her every action and spoke down to her. Only ever noticing her flaws or mistakes instead of praising her growth or achievements. She would be glad upon turning eighteen and gaining her legal independence from him so she would be free of his influence. "It's not like that pops! Kuno's chasing me, I can't stand the guy. But his skulls so thick that he won't take no for an answer!" Ranko hissed.

Genma frowned, how could she lie and deny the truth that he had discovered. She was so secretive these days, keeping things from him and sneaking around behind his back. "I've been too soft on you Ranko. I thought by training you to be a martial artist you would focus on what was important. But instead, you remain obstinate and distracted. You are my only heir!" he huffed. He allowed her to bond with Akane and have female companions, only to constantly spending her time at cafe's and spending time at the Tendou Dojo instead of training here with himself or Ryoga.

Ranko gripped her fists, how selfish could this asshole be? if he wanted to play the blame game she had plenty of ammo to throw in his face. "You took me away from mum when I was a kid, hell I barely remember her face! You dragged me all over the country to train into a martial artist. You separated me from Ucchan! Do you have any idea how much you've screwed up my life!" she snapped. Before she could settle, before she could find a new home and steady herself into adjustment, she would be torn away from that life before she had a chance to spread roots and get to know anyone. She got so lonely and sad, familiar faces she had grown close to were all but a memory. God she couldn't stand her father, the only thing she liked about him was the fact that she existed.

Genma flinched, he never wanted Ranko to have any distractions while training. It did hurt to abandon Nodoka but he did write to update her on everything that happened and sent pictures of Ranko to her. However, after moving to live with Asami, he stopped communicating. He meant to recontact her but so much had happened, piling up before he could prepare for anything. "Your mother knows you are well, she knew what was to be expected when she married a martial artist like myself" Genma protested defiantly. It was only a blessing his master Happosai never met Nodoka or he would have had to act, of course Nodoka would have raised her sword to him and ended him instantly.

"You say I can't enjoy the things that make me happy, friends, hobbies and fun! But you pig out on sweets, slack off and do whatever the hell you want all the time!" she growled. He was nothing but a damn hypocrite, keeping all the goods to enjoy for himself while neglecting her of any luxuries. She couldn't own anything girly, she couldn't enjoy perfume, she had to repress her femininity. Hell, he barely tolerated when she got her period and she couldn't even ask her mother about it either. She was only able to rely on Akane to help her out after befriending the girl.

Genma clicked his teeth, he didn't appreciate her newfound attitude and it would stop now "Ranko! Show some respect to your father!" he yelled. Her insolence would not be tolerated, even if they were guests in this home. Suddenly, there was a swift hit to Genma's cheek, punching him across the room and releasing his grip on Ranko. Groaning in pain as his cheek coursed with swelling and agony. It was a rare moment someone hit Genma hard enough to stun him let alone knock him off his feet.

Ryoga appeared in his view, standing protectively in front of Ranko with a fierce glare. He had overheard the yelling during his bath and became curious, only to overhear the argument. Genma patronising Ranko without even considering her defence against what he had heard. But the final straw was hearing Ranko bite back her tears while calling Genma out on his hypocrisy "Only cowards lay their hands on a woman, let alone their child" he scowled.

"Ryoga…" Ranko trailed off. She quickly straightened herself up and wiped her eyes, hoping he wouldn't see she wanted to cry. Luckily Genma hadn't used enough strength to bruise and she was tougher than she looked. But she was still in shock and pissed off from her encounter with him. He would do well to give her some space for a while, unless he wanted to take it up with Ryoga. She'd love to see Ryoga beat the crap out of her father for being the jerk that he was.

Ryoga stepped in front of her as to block her from Genma's view "My mum told me all about you from her high school days and training years. You flirted with any pretty girl that came into your fancy! You even made passes at my mum even after she met my dad. You flirted with women when you met Nodoka, you spent all your money on yourself during training with Ranko and separated her from her friends. A cowardly, selfish and pathetic excuse for a father has no right to judge Ranko!" he growled. He still flirted with his mother despite being married and his father having passed on. He never visited his wife out of cowardice but had the morality to communicate with her about Ranko. He never acted like a father towards Ranko and more like an overlord who controlled every aspect of her life. No wonder Ranko hated him. "That lecherous pig Kuno is obsessed with your daughter, but he doesn't love her. He can't make her happy! Hell, I fought the jerk to fight for Ranko's freedom, I will marry her but because I know I she'll always choose me. So how about you have more faith in your daughter than jumping to conclusions" Ryoga threatened.

Ranko gripped Ryoga's hand again, sensing he was shaking with rage. She knew Ryoga had a temper, tied directly to his passionate emotions. He was never a cruel person, but when someone he cared about was being wronged or harmed, he tended to get carried away. She was happier than she could describe that Ryoga was defending her against her fathers cruel words, but she didn't want him to waste his energy on the oaf. "Ryoga, it's ok now. It's not worth it" she mumbled.

Ryoga peered at Ranko, she was still in shock but more so she was worried about him. He could see she wanted to cry but she was relieved he was protecting her. He didn't want her dad to ruin this moment. He had done enough damage after having been so happy that Ranko accepted his cursed form, feeling closer to her than ever before. Every good thing in her life he spoiled, like fire burning down forests and turning them to ash. He sighed heavily under his breath, gripping her hand and leading her away. "C'mon, let's get some ramen" he muttered. Ramen was a comfort food, filling aching bellies after long and stressful days, bringing nothing but laughter and smiles. They needed something positive after such an ugly argument.

Ranko blinked, allowing Ryoga to lead her away in confusion "But…I was…" she stammered. She was going to help Asami cook dinner, she had always loved cooking it reminded her of home and her mother's kitchen. She didn't want to waste her home cooked food by eating something from another place. She had some minor cooking skills due to living on the road, but Asami helped her improve her cooking skills and learn new recipes, allowing her to become a better wife for Ryoga.

"Mum approved of it after the stress we've been through she said having some fun would do us some good…" he trailed off blushing but wore a shy smile. "…besides, it's our first date". He never thought there would come a time when he could say those words to Ranko. They usually hung out as a group with friends but never alone. This would be great memory to make together. Hopefully they found a photo booth and were able to capture some memories they could reflect on as time passed.

Ranko blinked, realising what he was trying to say to her, he wanted to be alone with her. She smiled fondly, squeezing his hand in return "Yeah, sounds like fun" she grinned. She didn't care where they went or whatever they were doing, as long as she was having fun with the person she cared about most of all. Though he was awkward with the delivery, she knew he was always being considerate. He was just a bashful person like that, bad at communicating but always putting thought into it.

"Aren't you cold, I mean with the wet hair and all?" Ranko asked curiously, pointing to his wet fringe. He had just been in the bath after all. The last thing she wanted was for him to become sick or something, especially because of her carelessness. She would happily take care of him it it came down to that. She could make him chicken broth or noodle soup to make him feel better. She knew all too well how easy it was to get sick because of simple mistakes, but due to Genma's uselessness she often took care of herself.

Ryoga fingered his semi damp fringe, having been so distracted he barely noticed it. Had it been winter then he was screwed, but it was still the warmer seasons. "Nah, it's summer and the bathwater was warm. It'll dry in no time" he hummed. Admittedly he had been so distracted in trying to protect her the thought completely passed over his head. But if he did, the fantasy of Ranko nursing him back to health did make him blush, he would certainly look forward to seeing such a thing.

Ranko grinned, poking her noodles thoughtfully before going in for another mouthful "Thanks for punching pops, he deserved that one" she smiled, she had hit him so many times over the years for being such an ass. It seemed no matter how many times he got knocked around he never learned his lesson. Either he was so thick skulled he couldn't be persuaded, or his being beaten up so many times had simply turned him from a clueless fool into a brain dead idiot. She found it hard to believe they were even related at times.

Ryoga groaned, hoping to push that memory to the back of his mind as it left a bitter taste in his mouth and he didn't want to get riled up again. "I still can't believe he's my father in law. He's the worst case of someone who shouldn't be a parent" he huffed. How Ranma's mother had ever agreed to marry let alone bear the child of someone like him he would never know. It was pretty obvious that Ranko took more after her mother than her father which was indeed a relief. Another human being who resembled Genma was an unpleasant thought indeed. However, her father's treatment would only act as a moral lesson of how not to act like a parent when she one day became his wife.

A shiver ran down Ranko's spine, she still hated that Genma would be the one to give her away someday. She would rather her mother give her away instead, she was the parent she liked anyway. God she missed her mother so much she lay awake thinking of her sometimes "Still surprised mum hasn't divorced him" Ranko scoffed. In name they were still married despite Ranko having been away from home since she was a toddler. But she prayed Nodoka saw sense and annulled the marriage as to become happier and her mother could take full custody.

Ryoga looked at her with pity, he couldn't imagine how hard it had been for her. He was blessed to have been raised by his single mother and able to appreciate her affections. Ranko had barely known such a thing and missed it every passing day "Does she still live in the same place?" he asked curiously. He had vague memories of her, only that aside from hair colour, Ranko greatly resembled her. He would love to get to know the woman he called mother in law, to be able to thank her for giving birth to Ranko and blessing him with his future wife. He couldn't thank her nearly enough for giving him such happiness.

Ranko shrugged, staring down at her bowl gloomily "I dunno, pops always sent the letter to the same place. I can't exactly skip school but… I miss her so much" she sighed. Maybe she could visit during summer when school closed for the holidays. She could go on a trip to see her mother briefly before returning home, allowing her to reminisce and bond with her parent. She was sure her mother would appreciate the gesture greatly too. Her mother was supposedly an amazing cook according to Genma, maybe she could learn some lessons from her too.

Ryoga could see the pain in her eyes, how much she longed for her mother. Why she was so close to his own, she was venting her loss and separation due to Genma's selfish actions. But that didn't mean she would forever be orphaned from one parent, that such a bond had to be severed permanently. This was the modern age and communication had improved greatly. "My mum, she might be able to contact her. I.. I can't make any promises, but if… Genma still has her letters. My mum can send a letter in her name and tell Nodoka where you are. We could arrange a meeting maybe… " he trailed off. He didn't care a single but about Genma's blessing, he planned on rescuing Ranko from him. But he did plan on having Nodoka involved in his and Ranko's future indefinitely.

Ranko snapped her head up in shock, her eyes wide with hope and excitement. A chance to see her mother again! "You could do that?" she asked desperately. Ryoga was just full of surprises, his heart was so big he was like the incarnate of a marshmallow. He had to be the sweetest guy she had ever met. She couldn't do enough to show her gratitude if he was capable of pulling something like this off. She knew to get her hopes up so soon was a bad thing, but she just couldn't help herself. She felt like a kid at christmas again.

Ryoga shifted, rather flustered by her excitement "I… I can't make any promises Ranko, but I can try, for you at least…" he mumbled bashfully. He would do anything for Ranko's sake if it made her smile that brightly for him. If she cried so much it hurt, he would hold her until she fell asleep or her eyes were puffy and red. If she was ever lost he would lead her home. If she wanted to sit and think for hours, he would sit beside her until it got dark. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for this girl. Even if it ended badly, even if they weren't able to succeed, he could at least say he tried and it was not in vain.

Ranko flung her arms around Ryoga, nuzzling against his face affectionately like a cat "Thank you, Ryoga! Thank you so much!" she sobbed. Ryoga blushed, this was the first time Ranko had ever made such a bold move on him. He could smell her perfume, how soft her skin was. She was so warm and her breasts were pressed against his chest. Ranko had always been well endowed and puberty had filled her out in all the right places. He always made sure never to come across as a creepy perv, but god did she feel good and he was getting very excited. Taking deep breaths to focus his thoughts and think rationally.

Ranko looked up to face him, her blue eyes bright and happy like a summer sky. Taking in his flushed cheeks, Ryoga had always been awkward but that was what made him so adorable. He was an only child, as his father died before his mother could have any more. Thus he looked at Akane as the sister he never had. She had always thought that if Ryoga had a sister he would dote on her endlessly. He was such a sweet and caring guy, if not awkward and impulsive at times. She slowly pulled away but continued smiling "Sorry, forget sometimes that you ain't used to me being clingy yet" she grinned.

Ryoga blushed, he never hated how affectionate Ranko was, he always loved how she wore her heart on her sleeve and spoke her mind with confidence. But being someone who was rather subtle in his affections and easily flustered, he was often taken aback by her public displays. He coughed awkwardly "Um... I mean, it's expected of fiance's anyway" he babbled. He was still taking stepping stone paces to find out what he was comfortable with, I mean they were teenagers for crying out loud. But soon he would be brave enough to show his own feelings so boldly. "So, the foods gonna get cold, I don't wanna waste it" he mumbled. His mother had always raised him that wasting good food was dishonorable and you should be grateful for every meal.

"That girl is nothing but a troublemaker, I swear she gets her temper from her mother" Genma growled irritably. Every day that passed Ranko resembled her mother more and more. Her hair colour was nothing like either of her parents, but her fiery temper, good looks and morality came directly from her mother. Ranko had clung to Nodoka from the hip the day she was born. Ranko was briefly a daddy's girl and such an angel before she became influenced by her mother and ended up becoming the willful woman she was now.

"Genma, you're moodier than usual today. Were you being too harsh on Ranko again?" Asami asked in amusement. She was relieved to know Ranko took after her mother instead of Genma. She knew that Ranko missed her mother dearly and hoped she and Nodoka could reconnect over time. She would never understand how Genma ever gained custody of his daughter when he was barely capable of taking care of himself without getting into trouble. Poor Ranko was simply dragged along for the ride. At least she and Ryoga had some headspace for the night to bond with one another.

Genma flinched, he swore Asami's sweet was like the choirs of heaven themselves "She's just in her rebellious faze is all. Teenagers and all that" he joked. Why couldn't Ranko act ladylike and obedient like Asami, a strong, beautiful and yet passionate woman whom was traditional and yet intelligent. Wondering what kind of child the two of them could have had if he hadn't married Nodoka.

Asami smiled, already predicting what kind of thoughts Genma was having. He really was shameless but then some things never changed. "Yes, the poor dear has had it rough lately. What with that boy harassing them both at school and Ryoga's curse" she hummed. They were going through an awful lot. Genma was so busy mourning his own issues that he barely paid attention to the issues his only child was struggling with. Compared to herself and Soun, Genma never truly grew up and moved on with his life, becoming a manchild instead of an admiral parent figure.

Genma blinked, a look of confusion on his expression. This was news to him and his curiosity had been peaked "Curse?" he mumbled. Asami sighed, sometimes she wondered how such a clueless fool could have fathered Ranko.

"Heitowennīchuan?" Genma yelled abruptly. Why on earth was Ryoga journey on such a dangerous mission to a place like China if he would fall into such risks. He was pleased that he took such serious interest in his responsibilities. But was it worth being permanently cursed with only the smallest hope of gaining an antidote? He was amazed that Asami had spent all these years hoping to cure her son and yet had found no leads yet. Perhaps he could speak to Suon his old friend from his training days for help.

Asami nodded, it was a rare moment Genma was this serious so she needed to take advantage and made sure he listened "Yes after you decided to leave Nodoka to train Ranko due to her being your only child. Ryoga was devastated at her departure. He decided to train in china to prove himself as a worthy fiancé. While there he experienced an accident and landed in the cursed spring. Whenever he touches cold water he now becomes a cute little piglet" she cooed. Though she did worry that he lacked protection as a pig and would get lost, wounded or sick. The thought of danger befalling him when he was so weak made her feel sick with panic.

"My daughter cannot marry a pig! She needs a human husband!" Genma growled. This had not been what they had agreed to, how could Asami keep this from him? This was important information that she should have revealed earlier. A pig could not produce heirs to the dojos and combine their families. This was a total disaster and he was incredibly displeased about this turn of events. It felt like one problem after the other kept befalling him.

Asami glared, he still retained the selective hearing he was infamous for as a youth "I assure you Genma, Ryoga is indeed a man, his body may transform into a pig but inside he remains my son. I have been researching how to find the cure but it is expensive" she huffed. The Amazons in China knew how to combat the effects and even find the cure to the springs. But she would need finances to go, communication between herself and the village leader was needed first before any confirmed action was taken. Genma winced, her temper since her youth had not faded with time. But how on earth were they to court each other with Ryoga being a pig? "Ranko is still smitten with my son and their relationship has not faltered, this discovery has only brought them closer and revealed their affection for each other" Asami encouraged.

"But what do we do of that Kuno boy? His obsession with Ranko will be tedious to our plans for them to marry" Genma protested. With outside forces meddling in their affairs how would they ever become a couple? Someone would sway Ranko's affections or seduce her into marrying them instead. There was so much at risk here.

Asami smiled "No matter how much he fights for Ranko's hand, I doubt her gaze would ever stray from my son. She's been smitten with him since adolescence. But I see no harm in Ryoga fighting for his soulmate" she giggled. She had always raised Ryoga to carry morality in his heart and fight for what was important to him. Ranko was one of the most precious people in his life, he would never let her go. They had been bound together by the fated red string since their childhood.