Herb (AST)

Herb, prince of the Musk, most recent heir to 10 generations of the dragon clan and countless ages of true dragons before that, who's very blood surges with the power of the dragon, the most fearsome of all creatures.

## Personality

Herb was initially no different from his counterpart haughty, disdainful of those he believes to be his inferiors, and does not hesitate to use his enormous powers to inflict pain on any who annoy him. However seeing Kasumi triumph over his subordinates and not back down against her despite the pain she inflicted ended up causing her to feel compassion for the first time in her life. Kasumi then going on to not only defeat her but save her life caused Herb to completely rethink her outlook.

However despite this Herb did’nt really change in fact it would be best to compare him to Mousse. He had become obsessed with Kasumi and vowed to make her his, even going so far as to attack Ranma when he learned of the engagement.

## Biography

As with canon Herb decided that he should see a naked girl after being informed of his marriage interview. So he took the Chiisuiton and a monkey to Jusenkyo. While Herb was awestruck by his first sight of real, nude, female flesh, the irritated monkey grabbed the Ladle of Locking and used it to splash him with water from the Nyanniichuan, simultaneously cursing him and locking him in cursed form. Though Herb retrieved the Ladle, the Kaisuifu had long since been lost to history, so, disguising her newly acquired sex from his people, he took two of his followers, Mint and Lime, and set out to retrieve the Kaisuifu and be cured.

Herb first met Kasumi when Genma in his cursed form attempted to steal their food. In no mood to be merciful Herb told Kasumi-kun to leave his pet and he refused said he would have to defeat Lime and Mint. Kasumi agreed and after transforming back into her true form managed to defeat the two using one of the Saotome Ryu Urawaza Hiougi.

All of Herb's teaching taught her that was an incredible insult. Women were to be the inferior. Kasumi affronted that belief, so Herb challenged Kasumi herself. Yet again Kasumi stood defiant. It was infuriating, yet also intriguing. Then, something very strange happened. Kasumi had made an error in judgment that should have cost her life. She had closed in allowing Herb to use her chi punch. Herb was quite impressed that she was dodging it so well, until that one punch finally managed to strike. She could have followed it up, and likely could have ended the fight right there, but something stopped her. It was compassion.

Seeing pain on Kasumi's face just seemed to bring it out spontaneously and it ended up tainting the whole fight for her. She started getting sloppy, hesitating on attacks, not pressing moments of advantage. When at last Herb had Kasumi trapped in the grip of her chi, the feeling reemerged more powerful than before and left Herb wide open. From that moment her defeat was inevitable. She had lost her focus completely. Having her curse revealed just ensured it.

However, it did not. Kasumi saved her. Kasumi risking her life to save a person who moments before had been trying to kill her was a totally outrageous concept to Herb. It defied everything she was taught. So, Herb had been left alive to contemplate her defeat. Kasumi pried at Herb's every thought. Not a day would pass without Herb thinking about her. In fact Lime and Mint had caught her more than once brooding about Kasumi, and even talking in her sleep about her.

Three months later Herb learned from a knowledge broker that the Kaisuifu was in Japan though she had ended up stabbing him in the hand when he tried to ask for more then money as payment. Knowing that Kasumi in Tokyo Herb was glad for the chance to be able to see her again in his true form.

Lime and Mint ended up having another run in with Genma and Kasumi and in the struggle accidentally confused the Chiisuiton with the pail the Old Washer Women uses. Naturally Herb was furious at them making such a stupid mistake, but now that Kasumi was aware of their presence he wanted to be cured as soon as possible so she didn’t have a chance to prepare. As they reached Horai Mountain large thorny vines and bushes suddenly a spell cast by Frost to slow them down.

When Kasumi, Frost and Ukyo arrived the two groups ultimately get into a conflict over the artifact, due to Frost’s antagonism. During the conflict, Ukyo would manage to unlock her curse, but Frost would destroy the Kaisuifu before Herb could do likewise. Infuriated by this, Herb attempted to kill Frost, but Kasumi managed to shock him out of this using a powerful Ha-Do-Ken. With Herb calmed enough to negotiate, Kasumi got Frost to agree to repair the artifact, giving Herb new hope.

As Herb searched for the remnants of the Kaisuifu he contemplated his feelings for Kasumi and finally admitted to himself that he was in love with her. With that revelation she vowed that Kasumi would be his and no one would stand in the way of that.

It turned out that Herb, Mint, and Lime had used up all of their funds searching for the Kaisuifu. Kasumi suggested that Lime and Mint stay at the dorms while she stays at the dojo. Initially Herb refused not wanting to accept charity, only to reluctantly agree when reminded they had no where to stay. Kasumi called Hiro to pick them up and as they waited Herb mistook Mint wanting to get closer to Ukyo as just his usual antics and told him to find food to distract him.

When they arrived at the restaurant after introducing Herb and explaining what happened Kasumi told her to wait or Nodoka while she went to take a bath. Nodoka arrived and caught Kasumi in a compromising position with Shampoo so pumped Makoto for information as Herb watched from the side. When Kasumi came down Nodoka agreed to let Herb stay when his situation was explained.

As the made their way to the Tendos Herb finally asked what Nodoka’s relationship to Kasumi was. He realized she was the panda’s wife when she explained the situation between their two families. As he attempted to probe more information from Kasumi’s honorary aunt he learned of Kasumi’s engagement to Ranma. Nodoka didn’t notice Herb’s darkening mood as she continue to explain te whole affair. Herb herself barely listened her only thought was making sure Ranma didn’t take what was rightfully his.

Herb would sleep in Kasumi’s old room. He immediately challenged Ranma finding him and Kuno fighting Happosai. After learning that Kuno who he initially mistook for Ranma was interested in Kasumi as well. Herb introduced herself and told them both to renounce their claim or else. Both Ranma and Kuno took this with a small measure of surprise, but also a great deal of anger. Herb quickly incapacitated Kuno with a chi blast

He then turned to Ranma as he was getting over his shock. Unlike Kuno, Ranma was prepared and thus able to dodge Herb’s attack. While he remained on the defensive Herb’s fatigue was beginning to catch up with her forcing her to take battle to a physical level. This allowed Ranma to gain the upper hand and essentially work the Musk Prince over with impunity.

Just as Ranma was about to finish her off he tore off her cloak revealing to everyone that she was female. Kasumi who had rushed over after hearing what was going on demanded they stop. Herb revealed his feelings to her after a recovered Kuno expressed his shock that another female was interested in her. This started an argument between Kuno and Herb over who loved Kasumi more, Mousse soon joined in as well. After another round of arguments Mousse attempted to force Kasumi to choose.

She deflected the question by stating it was Shampoo’s choice Mousse attempted to convince her to choose him, but she once more refused. Herb would dismiss Shampoo as meaningless, which served to only anger the Amazon. The next day Herb went to Kasumi for suggestions for a job. Herb's skill set being of little use for most high level positions, Shampoo would suggest Herb become a waitress, teasing the prince as being too lazy when Herb initially rebuffed this. This ultimately got Herb to agree. She only realized she’d been tricked once she left, but what was done was done. Hanging her head Herb headed off to the Tendos'.

Being a waitress was not a pleasant experience for Herb. The humiliation of acting as a common servant was bad enough, but to have to endure the attention of every man in the building was almost too much to take. The only reason she kept to it was because she refused to give Shampoo the satisfaction of knowing she was in the least bothered by the difficulties of the job, especially not by throwing in the towel, and quitting. She finally lost her patience when Haruka decided to playfully flirt with her. Herb responded by discreetly sending a small burst of chi at her chair.

She fully expected to be lectured by Kasumi for her actions. However Kasumi had recognized Haruka, so headed out into the dinning room without so much as a disapproving look. Leaving Herb to conclude that she hadn’t seen it. When everyone went to the restaurants beach location, Herb spent her time glaring at Ranma. She finally came out and told him that he wasn’t worthy of Kasumi. Ranma just responded that she wasn’t hers to claim.

Before Herb could retaliate she found Happosai nestled against chest. Ranma reacted instinctively at seeing the old freak, and attacked. For a second Herb was flattered that Ranma came to her aid before squashing that thought to focus on being angry at him for presuming to act as her protector.

When Ranma and Shampoo led Happosai back to the beach restaurant tto set him up with Kasumi. Herb saw this as a chance to have Kasumi to herself only for it to be ruined by her talking to Michiru. As she glowered over being ignored she relieved her boredom by pick up a book Ami had left when she went into the water and solving the problem in it.

When Shampoo and Ranma returned to inform everyone about Happosai and the love pills Herb helped in dealing with him. Herb finally had her first period causing her to initially think she was dying. Her panic changed to fury once it menstruation was explained to him, as well as the fact that this meant he had t start wearing bra’s and panties. This was more due to his fear that if anyone found out about how he was trapped he would be forcibly married off. This is why he was so adamant about being as masculine as possible as he’s rather die then be a part of some harem. Not to mention she didn’t know how long she could hold out against the personality altering affects of the curse.

While sympathetic Kasumi stressed that it was necessary. Eventually Herb agreed only if the undergarments her less feminine. Kasumi and Herb had visited over a dozen shops over the course of the afternoon, and the prince had reason to reject every suggestion Kasumi had made. Ami ended up showing up to help when Kasumi left Herb alone for a little while. Recognizing her as Makoto’s friend she asked her what she wanted. Ami ave her a package that contained more functional and simple underwear. Herb agreed that they were at least better then everything else she had saw and Ami helped her find a pair that fit her better.

Ami used the opportunity to asked how Herb had solved that math problem, leading to Herb explaining how much more intelligent Dragon’s were to humans. After buying her knew clothes Herb met up with Kasumi who was talking with Ranma. Seeing his smug smile Herb told him to shut up. Kasumi broke things up before they could escalate.

Herb was not in the best of moods, due to a combination Kasumi not being at the morning training as she was called in early to work, and having to wear a bra. As Mint walked her to work he asked her for advice to help with Ukyo. She told him to buy her a gift, something he learned from tv. She almost blasted him upon realizing he was asking her because of her curse, but was able to calm herself down and remind him that she was a man.

When they arrived Mint went off to ask Makoto while Herb asked Cologne what her intentions were between him and Kasumi, and didn’t believe her when she said she didn’t have any. She didn’t really care though, as long as Kasumi continued to honor Shampoo Cologne had no need or desire to get involved. Cologne found herself almost mentioning Lao, but stopped herself. She then asked Herb what he saw in Kasumi, but he didn’t feel the need to explain himself to her. Conceding Cologne returned to work, but not before reminding Herb that Shampoo was involved as well.

Herb’s frustration over her situation really started to show in her work causing her to constantly break dishes while washing them. Which is why Cologne was happy when Lemon and Sissithississ arrived. She greeted the two giving Herb a chance to change out of his uniform. She returned dressed in her cloak and armor and was greeted by Lemon kneeling at her feet. Though shocked Herb realized that someone might recognize her so took the two to the back to talk.

Sissithississ reminded the shocked Herb about the marriage interview that prompted his initial trip to Jusenkyo. Who informed the two that he had already chosen to marry. This prompted Lemon to grab him by the waste and sob uncontrollably, speaking incoherently through the tears. The close proximity, not to mention the crying, caused Herb to cringe and try to withdraw unsuccessfully.

An embarrassed Sissithississ was able to convince her to let the prince go. Calmed down somewhat Lemon asked if she had displeased him somehow, but since this was the first time they had met that was impossible. Before Sissithississ could stop her she pulled off her hood. While Cologne was left in awe at her beauty Mint was not so restrained, forcing Sissithississ to knock him out before he could do anything.

Much to their surprise Herb seemed completely unaffected as he demanded why Sissithississ attacked his guardian. He tried to explain Lemon's enchantment magic, but Cologne and Herb mistook it for Mint and Lime’s usually reaction to girls which Herb didn’t consider justification for attacking them, though he at least calmed down. This prompted Lemon to once again kneel before her feel and make her claim.

Herb explained how he wanted to marry Kasumi Tendo, naturally this required that he explain her curse as they thought Kasumi was a man. This sent Lemon into another fit of sobbing this time directed at Sissithississ. She was afraid that she would, be turned into a boy, Sissithississ tried to calm her down by her clan only does that at birth, but it didn’t help as she was convinced the would. Herb tried to help by claiming that he’d forbid it, but as a prince he had no authority to such a thing.

Relenting Herb agreed to make her his second wife, before remembers Shampoo, thus she’d be his third. Lemon nearly yelled, and if Sissithississ's ears had not deceived him, she sounded almost outraged. Herb explained how Kasumi already has as Amazon wife. Now that he knew why Cologne was there Sissithississ agreed with her that Lemon needed some time to herself, so told her to wait outside while he talks to the prince. She tried to protest, but the snake warrior insisted causing the girl to go quiet, bow her head and withdraw.

Once Lemon was gone Sissithississ revealed that he had figured out that Herb was cursed. Seeing Herb tense he assured him that he had no intention of using it against him, or telling anyone else. Herb reluctantly explained how he got trapped, while Cologne explained that the Kaisuifu was destroyed and they were waiting for it to be repaired. Sissithississ tried to convince Herb to at least marry Lemon first, but Herb had no interest in appeasing her as that would only make his claim to Kasumi weaker.

Sissithississ agreed to stay in Japan, especially since he didn’t want to go through the effort of convincing Lemon to leave. Cologne wondered if he could be trusted, but Herb wasn’t worried since the snake clan weren’t a very ambitious lot. After learning that Ranma would also be going on the training trip, Herb confronted Kasumi and demanded that he go as well. He claimed that this would give Ranma an unfair advantage, when Kasumi reminded him he worked with her; he replied that Ranma attends his class. He ended up being caught in his own reasoning when she reminded him about Ryoga, Mousse and Kuno, but ultimately he agreed they could come as well. Kasumi agreed to take him along as long as he got along with Ranma.

At the mountains, Shampoo assisted Kasumi in training for the Hiryuu Shouten Ha, being present when Kasumi unexpectedly activated the technique with no accompanying hot ki. When Herb arrived with the others to check out what happened, Kasumi requested he train her in his hover technique which Shampoo likewise asked to learn. As Herb watched Kasumi train she became captivated by her beauty while lamenting to herself how she had made no progress in her relationship.

His musings were interrupted by Ranma and Shampoo who weren’t as in control of the technique as Kasumi. Luckily Kasumi was able to catch them. Cologne arrived and they informed the elder of Ukyo's apparent attempt to learn her family's forbidden techniques. She in turn informed them that Ukyo was already on the hunt for Kasumi and would likely soon appear. Much to Cologne’s surprise Herb considered the battle to dangerous and wanted to put a stop to it. She quickly called the elder out for letting prejudice cloud her judgment.

Not long after, Ukyo would arrive and challenge Kasumi. Everyone gathered to observe the duel, and Kasumi's eventual defeat. Her heightened ki senses allowed Herb to see just how classed Kasumi truly was at least until she stumbled upon a cat and fell into the Neko-ken. Things took another turn when much to everyone’s surprise Kasumi-neko began powering up a Ha Do Ken. Herb who has seen just how devastating this technique was worned everyone to run.

When Kasumi-neko unleashed her attack Ukyo attempted to extinguish it resulting in an explosion that left her lying on the ground, bruised and burned but still breathing. As Kasumi-neko approached the barely conscious Ukyo Hidenori, Ranma, Tatewaki, Herb and Genma jumped in to stop her. ultimately Ukyo proved victorious.

Herb sneered as she watched the fathers argue over what to do now that Ukyo was officially Kasumi’s wife. Thinking to herself that no matter what the men thought or planned, Kasumi would be hers. Her musings were interrupted by the arrival of Lemon and Sissithississ, though Herb paid her little mind. Lemon thought that if Ukyo defeated Kasumi Herb would loose interest in her. Unfortunately not only did that happen but Herb found the thought of challenging Ukyo more appealing then Kasumi.

Sissithississ, didn’t even bother to hide it when Herb asked them what their role in this was. When Lemon asked what about her Herb nonchalantly answered that he’d still marry her afterwards. Sissithississ cut Lemon off before she could start arguing, thanked Herb and dragged her off.
After learning that Frost had been manipulated into attacking Kasumi by someone posing as Shampoo Herb went to the hotel that Sissithississ and Lemon were staying at. He informed a confused Sissithississ about what happened before ordering him to tell him immediately if he learned who this imposter was. With the restaurant destroyed Herb had nothing to do but sit at the Tendos' and brood. The one thing that kept her from going mad was the thought of getting her male body back, challenging and defeating Ukyo, and finally being married to Kasumi. It was in such a mood Cologne prince in. She came to inform him that Frost fixed the Kaisuifu but still needed to redo the enchantment.

Knowing that he’d be furious over having to wait longer to be cured Cologne gave Herb some packets of instant nyannīchuan to temporarily bypass the lock. She then asked him to meet with Kasumi’s other suitors later that day. Herb was very happy to meet up with the others and didn’t waste time in taunting Ranma. Ranma didn’t let himself take the bait and also stopped Kuno from attacking when Herb turned his attention onto him. Luckily Cologne arrived before things could esculate any further.

Cologne gave a strategic information omission on Mousse's condition to explain why he was no longer a contender for Kasumi's hand in marriage, before explaining how she had no preference for any of them men. Kasumi had already agreed to marry Shampoo so anything else was icing on the cake. She was there to warn them that Kasumi would not stand for Shampoo being forced into any further marriages, which included using Ukyo as a loophole.

With that out of the way she reminded them that Shampoo was also part of the deal as well as Kasumi herself said, this was Shampoo’s choice. Kuno took this the best having already accepted this and having the matter spelled out for him was not in the least surprising. Ranma was much the same, although obviously still not sure how to approach his current relationships. Ryoga took it a little harder, having not yet accepted that Kasumi wished to be with Shampoo. Herb was focusing on the fact that his entire plan of action with Kasumi has been effectively rendered useless.

After seeing their reactions Cologne turned to speak to each individually. She explained to Kuno that he wasn’t acting any different then Mousse, Herb meanwhile had been nothing but dismissive to Shampoo. As for Ranma and Ryoga she advised them make up there minds about weather they are going to get involved in this or not. Finally Cologne stated that she would not stand idly by if any of them do anything to impede Shampoo’s happiness.

With no other options Herb became desperate and used a forbidden Musk ritual to summon Sorora. Sorora was not happy to be called by Herb as he reminded her of Garnet and threatened to blast him into the nearest star. He tried not to betray surprise or fear, but felt both. He knew little of this woman, although he had strong suspicions as to her identity, and those suspicions made it quite clear that she could easily go through with her threat. So he did his best to convince her that he was not his father. He was there to seek an outlook greater then that of his father.

Though she didn’t promise anything Sorora agreed to entertain this audience. Herb hung his head, after asking Sorora for advice on how to pursue Kasumi, realizing how insignificant his request must seem when she started listing the things his father had asked her. His embarrassment quickly turned to anger when started laughing thinking she was playing with him. Sorora just found his request interesting due to the complexity of dealing in a human relationship. This was not something that she would just wave her hand and fix, something Herb was quick to assure her wasn’t expecting, even if he was hoping she could.

Sorora’s first piece of advice was to completely forget everything his father taught him, particularly about women. Her next piece of advice was that given who he was attempting to pursue he would have to give up his pride as a Musk. Herb didn’t understand what she was talking about, but she just replied that he would in time if he was serious. After telling him to stop referring to Shampoo as the Amazon she gave him a bit of homework for the next week tell her why Kasumi and Shampoo loved each other. It was this that Herb was trying to figure out as he watched Ranko try an teach Kasumi the Mōko Takabisha. Unfortunately his training in life left him ill-equipped to answer such a question.

Shampoo would arrive to once more train along side Kasumi. After briefly teasing Herb, unsuccessfully, she would join Kasumi and Kasumi would demonstrate how far she had gotten with her particle control technique by creating a sand replica of Shampoo. At that time, Ranma appeared, although Kasumi found it odd he was not with Kuno. However, when he stole a kiss from Kasumi, everyone quickly realized this was in fact Ken in Ranma's guise.

Shampoo would quickly accuse him of deceiving Frost, but he denied it, and instead he would challenge Kasumi to a fight, which she accepted. Despite Ken's ability to copy both various people's techniques, including Kasumi and Ukyo, Kasumi proved too much for the boy, having too great a mastery of her own techniques for him to match, and exploiting the water to prevent him from engaging her properly when in Ukyo's form.

The spectators were caught off guard when an enraged Ken attacked Shampoo in an attempt to force Kasumi to engage him directly, twisting Shampoo's wrist in the process. By the time their battle instincts kicked in, he unleashed the burning soul. While Herb, Ranma and Kuno were knocked out, Ranko at least managed to block his attack even if she was knocked off her feet and out of position. Kasumi too would become enraged unnaturally by this and, utilizing the dark ha do, attacked Ken brutally to the point those gathered had to physically intervene to stop her.

On getting her off, Kasumi would collapse unconscious as she had done at Pierre's. The others were about to take both to the clinic when they were attacked by Shadow and Shadow Lady. Shadow Lady would attempt to take Shampoo, while Shadow successfully grabbed Kasumi and escaped. Ranma ran after him quickly followed by Herb. Thankfully for them, he was forced to stay visible as he was carrying Kasumi across his shoulder. Herb tried to it him with a chi blast, but he was easily able to evade it. Shadow was finally able to escape after jumping down a gap putting him momentarily out of sight granting him a chance to attack the two when they jumped in as well. Ranma and Herb were forced to dodge and by the time they reoriented themselves Shadow was gone.

Dr Tofu nearly had to fight Herb to prevent him from attacking the recovering Ken. Later after calming down he went to Ranma and proposed a temporary truce on their rivalry and offered to train with him. They finally caught a break when Sampei called the dojo to tell them to meet at Hotel La Bac. They arrived to find not only nearly the entire class where Saki explained that she believed that Kasumi, Usagi, and Shampoo were in there. Ranma was initially skeptical, especially when Kitsune started talking about the Illuminati, before Saki shut her up; but she asked them to just trust her. She went on to tell them the place was most likely booby trapped in addition to Shadow and Shadow Lady being in there, but was caught off guard when Ranma asked her if she had a plan.

Luckily Kitsune somehow got the buildings blueprints allowing them to map out a route. However the moment they went in a wave of what could only loosely be described as nausea washed over them. It turns out that the building protected by an anti magic field that also effected chi meaning that Hinako and Cologne wouldn’t be able to help as their abilities mostly relied on their aura. While everyone else could go they wouldn’t be able to manipulate their chi drastically compromising their fighting ability. Herb noticed that Saki wasn’t being affected and it turns out that keys she had been given by her bose were neutralizing the effects.

Needing to take out the power source, the group divided into two; while most would spread out above to search Genma Akane, Shin, Claigin, Frost and Kodachi would search the floors below and take out the power. Herb ordered Lime and Mint to go as well. While their power weren’t fully restored the effect when one of the stones was destroyed was easily felt. They were about to tread on when they were divided by a trap and attacked by Shadow and Shadow Lady.  Ranma, Sakura, Herb and Ryoga did there best to defend themselves from Shadow’s invisible attacks. Luckily Izou was there and while he was instantly knocked out he did manage to make Shadow visible. Sadly with Sakura already injured, it had largely fallen to the three boys to take the clone down, but without their full strength, Shadow was more than a match for even the combined efforts.

As Ranma and Herb were recovering Ryoga was taken out. Shadow’s attacks were two quick to dodge at close range and they couldn’t get enough to do any real damage. Not to mention the fact that he didn’t seemed be getting fatigued allowing him to slowly but surely wear them down. Eventually Ranma noticed Shadow used intricate moments when attacked so he and Herb led goaded him back towards one of the earlier traps they had gotten past in order to prevent him from moving. Shadow followed them into the water which made his movements sluggish allowing the two to take advantage and knock him out.

Making their way through the building Ranma and Herb were led to Saki and Kuno by the sound of their screams. The two had fallen into a trap and needed help getting out. After regrouping they continued on. When the second stone was destroyed Herb regained his ability to sense others allowing him to locate where Kasumi’s and the others were. Knowing that they didn’t have a lot of time Herb cut a hole through ceiling, as he was doing it the magic of the instant spring water wore off transferring him back into a woman. Ranma just told a confused Saki that it was a long story, but it did lead to the reveal that Kanada was Kasumi.

Saki demanded an explanation later just as Herb finished, seconds later, Herb carrying Saki and Ranma helping Kuno, made there way up three floors. They arrived to find Kasumi possessed and Shampoo unmoving. They were unable to assist her, however, as the possessed Kasumi quickly attacked them. She made disgustingly short work of her would be rescuers. Kuno was the first to go down followed by Saki. Herb and Ranma did little better. Despite the situation the pair found themselves in, and very real danger it posed, neither found it easy to fight Kasumi seriously. That hesitation cost them dearly as the possessed Kasumi had no such reservations about attacking them.

Ranma was trying to stop her from slowly suffocating Herb-chan when the building self destruct sequence was activated by the Doctor. Throwing Herb-chan into Ranma the possessed Kasumi retrieved a small device and spoke a bunch of codes into it. Only after the sudden outburst of energy in the building, caused by Usagi shattering her crystal to escape the nanobots control, was Kasumi finally stopped as her true personality started to fight that possessing her. Ranma, Herb, Ranko and Genma quickly moved to seize, while Akane and Saki moved to Shampoo and examined her , finding her barely breathing. However, after Kasumi cast out the possessing mind, Rose enter the picture. She would attack them, nearly finishing them off, even threatening Shampoo, but Kasumi recovered and faced off with her, allowing the others to escape.

Ranko would carry Shampoo most the way, although, with only 3 minutes they weren’t going to make it so Herb radioed Frost to tell her to conjure them away out. She was forced to reveal her twin curse to all present to facilitate an escape. After the building collapsed leaving nothing but a globe. Many of the more able ones, sensitive to chi, could sense the struggle going on within, but all attempts at entry had failed. Herb in particular was one such person, and if she hadn’t exhausted herself would have attempted to blast her way in. Thus all she could do was return to the ground and rest as she sensed the Rose’s defeat but not understanding how.

When the globe started to collapse he and Ranma renewed their effort. However just as hope was starting to be lost, a flash could be seen at the globe's edge, and Uranus, carrying the limp forms of Kasumi and Rose came falling out. Suspicious Herb demanded to know who she was and while she gave her name she was just as evasive as Tuxedo Kamen when he brought out Usagi. No one stopped her when she left more worried about Kasumi. Tofu confirmed that she was both fine and that there was no sign of the Dark Ha Do with in her. With that all that was left was what to do about Rose.

The next day, while on her way to check up on Kasumi he caught sight of Shampoo running to the roof. Seeing Ranko about to follow her he warned her off, believing Shampoo needed to be alone right now, to which Ranko abliged. Herb had managed only a few brief moments alone with Kasumi, enough only to exchange some pleasantries and some relief at her safety. Then, all too quickly the rest of the family and suitors arrived ruining any chance she had with Kasumi. Combine this with Herb finding her contribution to Kasumi's rescue woefully inadequate, and it had all left her in a rather foul mood. The mood was not improved when she entered her room only to find Sorora waiting for her.

Herb was furious as she had tried to contact Sorora three time, only for her to remind the prince that she sets when they meet not her. After a moment of silence she informed the chastised Herb that she was the one who kept Hotel La Bac from collapsing long enough for everyone top escape as well as led Sailor Uranus to Kasumi and back out. at this Herb could only fumble out an apology which Sorora was quick to accept.

While Sorora was impressed by what she saw of Kasumi, she warned Herb that given her complicated situation tying herself to her could get her into trouble, particularly with her father. Herb however didn’t care which Sorora didn’t know weather this was an admirable quality, or just a sign of her foolishness. With that she reminded Herb that she still had a task to complete Herb frowned in frustration, but stayed quiet. Satisfied at this, Sorora advised him to keep an eye on Kasumi, as the greater circles of power would have noticed her fight with Rose. Herb had expected Sorora to protect her, only to be informed that humans must be allowed to grow on their own.

Herb found Ranma in the dojo with nearly the whole floor covered with the books and scrolls. Ignoring Ranma telling her to leave him alone she examined one of the nearby scrolls. Seeing that it was about the body's energy system she scoffed at the notion that Ranma could learn something as complicated as this in just a few days. Ranma asked Herb for help only to be rebuffed. Despite working together with Ranma during past incidents, Herb saw Ranma as his enemy and nothing more. In fact if it wasn’t for Kasumi he’d deal with him more directly.

Dismissing Herb’s veiled threat Ranma told her to leave him alone so that he could get back to work. She later came across Shampoo seemingly talking to herself. Shampoo introduced her to Kogane and it took Herb several seconds to comprehend the fact that she was witnessing a real ghost, and several more to try and comprehend how Shampoo could be so relaxed about it. Shampoo informed her that Kitsui used a form of mental illusion and she was trying to figure out away to deal with it.

While members of the dragon clan where extremely resistant to all forms of mental influence, Herb did have an idea for a counter. She offered to tell it to Shampoo in exchange for her telling her why she loved Kasumi, to which Shampoo agreed. For a whole week Ranma and Shampoo trained almost nonstop with Ranko and Herb. In addition to his hovering technique, Herb also taught her a technique he developed to compensate for his female body's lower Ki. While he had little measure of the Buyou twins he was confident that she and Ranma could win. During the match he and Cologne provided commentary explaining the techniques the twins used.

After overhearing Ranma ask Kasumi out on a group date with him Shampoo, and Ukyo Herb rushed into the dojo to call him out on the audacity of doing so. As she and Ranma glared at each other the two assured Kasumi that weren’t going to fight. They quickly found something else to look at when Soun entered the room happy that Kasumi was finally better.

After meeting with her two subordinates Herb would call in his debt from Shampoo, but she would say simply it was the law that made her love Kasumi, but Herb quickly dismissed this as a lie as it was inconsistent with her other behavior. After the two argued a bit, Herb dropped the matter. She was brought out of her thoughts of how to answer Sorora’s question by the sound of Soun’s crying.

Genma had just informed Soun about how much Kasumi and Shampoo’s relationship had advanced. Herb amused himself at watching Soun freaked out about this news until the father jumped to his feet planning on dragging Kasumi back to the dojo. Before Herb could consider her own response to this, Genma intervened. He pointed out that not only would this do nothing but alienate Kasumi, there was a matter of her personal moral code to consider which asking her to abandon Shampoo would violate.

This calmed Soun down and Herb nearly decided to leave when Genma told Soun about Kasumi’s break up with Haruka. When Soun left to go talk to Kasumi Herb followed him to make sure nothing serious happens when in actuality he just wanted to take advantage of the situation if it did.

Herb was greeted by Jasmine the grand magus there to oversee Frost’s repair of the Kaisuifu. She was also asked by Kasumi to examine the enchantment placed on Kasumi. Jasmine quickly concluded it was kitsune in original. She would conclude the kitsune was young, likely not even one tail, and that tail was an enchantment one. This was enough info for Herb to have a thought and head off before anyone could tell him why the mages were there.

It didn’t take long for Herb to figure out that the Kitsune was Lemon, having long since suspected that she had mystical powers given her energy field. As well as the fact that she was the one who manipulated Frost. Her fury as she marched to Lemon’s current home was temporarily by the arrival of Sorora. However she stated that she was just curious before vanishing. Wondering if that was a warning she continued on.

She was greeted by Sissithississ who told him that Lemon was sleeping. Herb decided to confront the snake clansmen first and asked him if he was aware of Lemon's true nature. Seeing the confusion on his face at this question he told him that she was a kitsune. While surprised, Sissithississ admitted that it explained a lot. Herb ordered Sissithississ to tell him everything he knew about Lemon and what she has been doing.

Sissithississ tried to argue that Lemon didn’t intend Herb any difficulty, but only cared about her actions against Kasumi. The revelation that the Fox Clan were actually Kitsune made him wonder if they were planning to either mystically control him, or replace him outright. This Sissithississ couldn’t argue against as it was something he had been wondering himself.

Before Herb could realize what to do he realized that Lemon had run away. Scanning the area Herb ran after her after sensing where she went. Sissithississ was about to follow only to realize that in her panic Lemon had left her cloak. Dropping from the sky he ordered her stop, but she just ran into a restaurant. When Herb went in after her she was immediately jumped by several men. Although she had a considerable physical advantage, the shear number of attackers was overwhelming her.

Luckily Sissithississ was well accustomed to this and was able to efficiently disable the restaurant goers and staff sufficiently for them to continue the pursuit. After calming down Herb attempted to find Lemon again, but when she couldn’t sense anything Sissithississ realized that met that she had run out of energy. Tracking her scent to an all night grocery, the two prepared to go in only for a man to come rushing out in a panic.

Sissithississ knocked the man out to be safe and they found Lemon laid out on the floor in her kitsune form. As the last of her energy left her she past out before reverting completely to that of a fox. They decided to take her back to the San Cheng Huang. They found Kasumi and Shampoo talking with a group of Joketsuzoku elders. Seeing Siren’s frown at her condition he explained that they didn’t hurt her she ran out of energy. Upon being told that they had discovered that a Kitsune was the one who enchanted Shampoo, Cologne realized this was his fiancée.

Surprised that Kasumi weren’t aware of this she explained how she met Lemon and Sissithississ. They were interrupted by the arrival of Jasmine who after inspecting the fox, quickly directing her to be taken elsewhere for treatment. With further explanation of the events around Lemon most everyone concluded she was indeed the culprit in tricking Frost, causing Kasumi to wonder why she was so angry with her. Cologne pointed out that as Herb's fiancée she saw Kasumi as an obstacle. Though she wondered she was using such indirect methods. Siren examined Kasumi and determined that she did indeed have an incomplete enchantment placed on her. She asked Kasumi if she was ever inexplicably overwhelmed with desire causing her to remember that time Lemon confronted her in the shower.

Guan Li saw all of this as unimportant given how dangerous Lemon was. Kasumi didn’t want to any conclusions causing the elder to call her out for trying to protect Lemon. She pointed out the irrevocable damage she could have caused. If Frost had succeeded in killing Kasumi Shampoo would have sought vengeance against Frost. The confusion over the whole thing could just as easily turned against Shampoo too. Kasumi didn’t really have an answer for this, so Cologne stepped in and reminded Guan Li that is didn’t happen.

The conversation then moved to Herb and what he planned on doing. Herb had no excuse for Lemon’s actions, but the fact she was a member of the Musk led to many more question. He realized that the fox clan has many mysteries about them, many consistent with a clan of kitsunes. Cologne realized that Garnet must be aware of this as he is to experienced to be fooled by their magic. Something Herb had not considered until now. Jasmine would soon return saying the Lemon was in serious condition but stable and should recover, and confirmed that the Dragon Lord of the Musk did indeed know. Ignoring Guan Li’s question of how she knew Garnet Jasmine informed the group that Lemon was now under her protection.

Shampoo would angry at Herb for not mentioning Lemon sooner, but Herb countered she was not officially his fiancee. Kasumi would suggest Ukyo would know more about her as Lemon had helped her train. Shampoo would ask Kasumi why she was defending Lemon, but Kasumi had no real answer, and Shampoo in annoyance headed off to check on her mother.

Herb apologized to Kasumi for Lemon’s actions assuring her that she won’t let it happen again. While he wouldn’t hurt her he agreed with Shampoo that her actions can’t just be brushed aside so easily. Again Kasumi had no real answer to this and Herb left to check in with Sissithississ. The next day Herb returned to the restaurant to find Shampoo and Ukyo being grilled by the elders. Guan Li and Cao Yun started arguing about weather or not he was involved causing Herb to demand to know what was going on. Ukyo informed him that they were ambushed by a bunch of kitsune and Kasumi and Ranma were captured. Shortly after it was confirmed Cologne had escaped as he rejoined them, now in her youthful form, So Pu and Shampoo confirming her identity.

Cologne explained she had been forced to get serious, but had overcome them, and further explained as shapeshifters, physical attacks were of little use against them. Herb would also note that the fox clan, likely all kitsunes, were rumored to be the Black Ops of the Musk. Jasmine then joined them, asking them to not further escalate the situation and ensured them she would bring any remaining Amazons outside safely within the barrier currently erected at the restaurant. Cologne also ensured them the kitsune did not seem to mean serious harm.

Sometime later, the restaurant would be surrounded by a large group of kitsunes which both Shampoo and So Pu sense, Shampoo noting many were powerful, very old spirits. Devlin, who had been left in charge as Jasmine departed suddenly, went out and met Peach, the leader of the group of Kitsunes, and Peach asked to see Lemon. Devlin would allow it. Peach apologized for the earlier incident and freed Ranma and Kasumi. Ukyo unexpectedly outdid Shampoo in enthusiasm for their return, rushing to Ranma's side, sending Shampoo into a spin, but Kasumi did quickly join her. Peach then asked to see Lemon who Devlin escorted her to. With the kitsune gone, Kasumi warned them that this was no longer about Lemon, and that Eyebright, Lemon's father, had forced them to reveal Herb's curse and that he was now the target. Cologne explained to the others that being trapped in female form, Musk law did allow Herb to be forced into a marriage which would give the husband Herb's position as heir to the throne.

Peach returned and unexpectedly confirmed for everyone that it was indeed Lemon who had tricked Frost. Peach further apologized, disavowed any participation in Lemon's actions, and gave the life of Lemon to Kasumi as way of compensation. This confused Kasumi, thinking she meant for Kasumi to kill Lemon, but she clarified that Lemon's fate was for Kasumi to decide now, and Cologne further clarified that effectively Lemon was now Kasumi's slave. Peach confirmed this resolved the conflict between them and the Amazons and Cologne was forced to confirm it was. Then as earlier warned the topic turned to Herb and Peach requested they had over the princess. Naturally this was refused by Herb herself who finally appeared. Peach put on a false sense of disappointment and said they would be taking Herb, and departed to rejoin the other kitsunes.

Devlin quickly started making directions, confirming Jasmine was engaged with Eyebright at that moment, and the barrier would not hold indefinitely so they had only about an hour. As he went off to seek reinforcements for the coming battle, the others discussed what to do. The Amazon elders had little choice but to remain out of it. Herb also confirmed his father, while he could intervene, likely wouldn't, and would instead find it amusing. Kasumi vowed to help Herb, and Ranma, Shampoo and Ukyo all did likewise.

It was here that Kasumi realized that they still had never told Herb that Frost is about to complete the repair. With renewed hope they set about planning on how to make it to Siren’s barrier without being caught. Ranma would suggest Ranko was as an ace in the hole, to which Shampoo agreed as kitsunes are magical.

With the arrival of Rippa as back up, Shampoo, Kasumi, Ukyo, Ranma, Rippa, and Herb convened in the pocket dimension to do the last bit of strategy. They would make a break for Siren's barrier by Frost, and with the repair of the kettle could restore Herb's male form preventing any forced marriage. Since Siren was an Amazon, the kitsune's could not attack Siren's barrier without provoking a response from the Amazons. Devlin gave each a magic potion to drink which would allow them some added protection from the kitsunes as well as allow them to at least hurt them in physical combat for the duration of the effect.

Teesha, another mage present who was helping, used her power to create numerous homunculi duplicates of each to act as distractions, and the group divided into pairs to accompany some of the duplicates to make the deception more convincing. Herb ended up being paired with Ukyo and since he was their target naturally the two got into a significant battle against their kitsune pursuer. It had taken some effort, but they had managed to overwhelm her and knock her out, but not before losing all their homunculi. They came across Kasumi and Ranma a few short blocks from Ranko's meeting spot.

It turned out Peach had snuck on small portal onto Herb, and had used it to catch up to him. He sensed her presence just as they were about to continue on. The foursome of Ukyo, Herb, Kasumi and Ranma stood in shock before perhaps their worst case scenario: face to face with Peach, in all likelihood, the most powerful kitsune in the bunch save only Eyebright himself. Kasumi told Herb to run while they hold her off, unfortunately she had already trapped them looped space area.

Peach taunted the group telling them that they only way out was knocking her unconscious. Ukyo was the first to attack angered at being underestimated, only for Peach to promptly shatter the moment her fist made contact. As Ukyo went into shock thinking she had killed someone. The shattered remains then rapidly grew into copies of Peach. With that Ranma, Kasumi, and Herb joined the fight as well. It was quickly apparent that that they were completely outmatched and that Peach was merely playing with them. Kasumi took advantage of her not taking them seriously to call forth the Light Ha Do. In Peach’s arrogance she let Kasumi strike, who did so with such force that the she as well as all the other duplicates dematerialized instantly.

When Peach rematerialized Kasumi asked the group to give her an opening. As with all their attempts previously, though, Peach easily dealt with even their combined attacks. Despite Ukyo's Burning Soul increased speed and strength, Peach proved that much faster and stronger, easily dodging the chef's initial attack and tripping her up, while simultaneously evading several energy bolts from Herb. Even Ukyo and Herb working together to fill the air with their attack proved useless. However this spray of attacks and debris gave Kasumi the opportunity to attack only to realize that she was an illusion. The real Peach shapeshifted back to human form on a nearby rooftop.

Impressed that Kasumi was able to figure it out Peach was about to change her strategy only to be suddenly attacked Rippa. Peach had little opportunity to assess the new threat as Shampoo dropped on her from above with an energized fist. Peach was easily able to overpower her. They explained that she had used her spirit senses to find her way into the looped space area, and thus could sense the true path out. Despite their best efforts, Peach proved impossible to get past, and in order to demoralize them even more she humiliated them by immobilizing them in the air and destroying their clothing. Shampoo, along with Herb remained defiant despite this.

Kasumi, who had fooled Peach with a soul illusion, managed to sneak in an attack, but it too failed. As Peach asked if that was all she had, Kasumi use a flash of ki to blind her long enough for Ranko to make her final approach and grab her. The effect of contact with the kitsune was dramatic, quickly defeating her. Kasumi decided to take her with them as she appeared injured by the contact and they raced off the remaining distance to Siren's barrier. Along the way, they managed to cobble together some clothing. Just short of the barrier, Eyebright suddenly appeared and confronted them, effortlessly defeating Ranko. However, before he could move on the rest, Jasmine appeared as well and blocked him. This gave the others the chance to enter the barrier.

Kasumi moved to help Ranko, laying the incapacitated Peach down. Eyebright, frustrated with the situation, declared he was committed and that although he would not attack further, there was only two ways this would be allowed to end, Herb surrendering or dying. He explained that he could not let Herb return to the Musk alive given all that had happened, and sooner or later they would kill him before he could return. Kasumi, currently in male form, realizing the situation was otherwise intractable, confirmed with a look to Shampoo and then declared his intent to take Herb as his wife by Amazon law.

Eyebright was confused by this, no knowing the law, but So Pu arrived and explained it to him, that while Kasumi was in fact a woman, by Amazon law her legal gender was still undecided so Kasumi could exercise the male marriage right. With Herb a provisional Amazon until declared otherwise, the kitsunes could not attack him without provoking an Amazon response. Eyebright was angry with this, but So Pu quickly diverted his anger by making a proposal that caught Kasumi of guard. So Pu correctly analyzed that Eyebright was intending a coup against Herb's father, and offered Amazon assistance in such, declaring herself to be the soon to be Matriarch of the Amazons. This was even more a shock to the others, but Cologne confirmed it. Eyebright stood down and agreed to talk, calling off further hostilities for the day. Shampoo attempted to speak with Cologne, but she said they would have to discuss such later, directing them to stay within the barrier, and telling Siren to get them some clothes before departing to be part of the talk with Eyebright.

An hour later Cologne returned and explained that they had come. First she explained that she had been voted out of the Matriarch position due, in part, to the situation with Kasumi and Shampoo. The council members believed Kasumi was trying to seize power in the village by exploiting the marriage law, despite evidence to the contrary. Since Cologne ended up taking a rather passive response to Kasumi, instead of continuing with her original aggressive one, she had lost support.

In regards to Herb, they had reached a provisional agreement. The Amazons would aid in the coup, and in exchange Kasumi would take the official title of Dragon Lord, although the true power would remain with Eyebright. This all angered Shampoo who felt she had been tricked, although Cologne said she had asked So Pu not to mention the situation. The final approval for the agreement remained with Kasumi and Herb, but with the alternative being Herb's likely death, there was little alternative.

Herb followed Kasumi to the hospital where she was checking up on Ranko. Both she and Ranma called him out for putting himself in danger like that as things still weren’t official, Herb refused to be intimidated. He tried to convince Kasumi to call things off as it wasn’t the way he wanted things to turn out, but he couldn’t argue with the fact that there was no other viable alternative.

They reconvened at Siren's barrier to witness Frost's enchantment, and after she succeeded the festivities moved to the restaurant. With all attention on Frost, Herb used the opportunity to slip away without being missed. He ended up following a kitsune to their base where he found Eyebright, sitting at a table and partaking in drink. He raised his latest of such to Herb and asked him to join. Herb told Eyebright that he was there to surrender himself.

Eyebright was honestly surprised when the prince surrendered himself. Not realizing just how much he cared for Kasumi. However he ended up refusing as the agreement he set up with the Amazons was far too valuable an assed to give up. As Herb chided herself for not thinking things through, Eyebright pointed out that Kasumi would have never accepted him doing this in the first place. He also pointed out that while the situation wasn’t ideal it still gave him the opportunity to move ahead in his relationship. Though Soap who had followed Herb there wasn’t so sure. With that the Kitsune went back to celebrating as Herb and So Pu left.

Herb called the elder out for not stopping him knowing it was futile. Soap told Herb that this wasn’t about forcing him to do her bidding. She was simply taking advantage of the situation. She didn’t know Eyebright was going to refuse his offer and if he hadn’t she agreed that Kasumi wouldn’t have accepted it. Herb went back to the restaurant thinking that the fact that both Soap and Eyebright wanting this was something he could leverage.

During the meeting with the Amazons to make things official Herb would unexpectedly make several demands to get his agreement. First he demanded that Shampoo and the others in the marriage have full honors restored. Second that Kasumi could marry a male of her choosing and was not limited to him. Third that neither So Pu nor Eyebright would use Kasumi to support their actions while she ruled. And finally that should any fallout come their way due to the coup, both parties would make every effort to protect Kasumi and those around her. Eyebright and So Pu agreed to the conditions and Jasmine guided them into a magical pact to seal the agreement. Eyebright needed only to recognize it without Herb’s dispute. With that Jasmine produced the Kaisuifu which proved a success. Afterwards, Kasumi and Shampoo would thank Herb, but he dismissed this.

Later after learning that Lemon was being left in Kasumi’s care Herb suggested he move in to keep an eye on her. He also gave her the amulet that Sissithississ uses to protect himself from Lemon’s enchantments. The next day Shampoo helped with the process, along with Akane and Nabiki. After escorting the two out he returned to find Shampoo looking over his remaining packets of instant Nannichuan. Herb warned her against even considering them an option. Shampoo denied any thought of such and left to join Kasumi, meeting with Makoto and being invited to a talk with her and her friends which they agreed to. That night, Shampoo joined Herb, Kasumi, Ranko, Frost and Selene with the Senshi where the Senshi finally revealed their true identities to them.

Later as Lime and Mint were moving in they were interrupted by the arrival of Ukyo. Mint quickly offloaded his goods onto the already overloaded Lime and rushed over, ignoring the other boy's annoyed call after him. Herb put a stop to his subordinates awkward attempts at flirting. Ukyo asked him if Mint’s attraction was because of her curse. He told her that despite Amazon propaganda the Musk do greatly respect strong women, and her curse and her strength together are likely the cause of his interest. He offered to order him to leave her alone, but she wasn’t ready to go that far just yet.

The next day, Herb also joined in on the demonstration causing Shampoo to taunt Makoto who was somewhat reluctant about showing off her Senshi powers. Later, when Kasumi and Usagi had finished their talk, Shampoo was apparently exhausted, with Makoto as Sailor Jupiter currently having her durability tested by Herb. They noted how Shampoo was unable to do any real damage despite her best efforts, although noting Shampoo's physical attacks were at least somewhat effective. Herb noting how much more durable the senshi armor was compared to their own, caused Kasumi to realize that she was bullet proof. Something she had never really thought about.

As Frost was looking over Ami’s uniform Herb confronted Makoto about the Senshi’s belief that Frost was the reincarnation of Sedna. ignoring her question about how he knew that he wanted to caution her about making any rash decisions as he had his doubts as Frost simply wasn’t strong enough for that to be the case. Makoto pointed out how much the two looked alike, Herb theorized that they were most likely related. Makoto decided to talk to the others and Herb, Shampoo and Kasumi agree not to say anything.

As they left the pocket dimension they were greeted by Crystal who informed them that Lemon had gone missing. Since Herb had ordered her to leave the pocket dimension when they started the demonstration, he was dismissive of this thinking that she had just left, but Kasumi wanted to go search for her. Crystal agreed as recent events are likely to have attracted the attention of undesirables, so it was dangerous for Lemon to be alone. After an hour Herb continued to try an absolve Kasumi of her guilt when they couldn’t find her. Stating that Lemon knew the risk and chose to leave anyway, only for Kasumi to point out that no one told her of those risk.

They would eventually find signs that Lemon had been kidnapped, and with no way to trace her, Frost would suggest a broad spell to find any kitsune in the area. Led by Grenda, they would follow this spell to a apartment that turned out to be the residence of Copycat Ken, who turned out to be in fact a kitsune to some degree. Ken called Kasumi out for being so brutal with him, causing Herb to come to her defense when she started to agree. After the initial confusion and disappointment, Ken learned of their search, and showed them to a building he knew of.

They found the building in question to be very suspicious due to both Ken's history with it, and the many magics around it. Grenda put Shampoo to sleep for her to use her spirit walk ability to scout the place. Shampoo returned quickly, finding Lemon was indeed within along with about fifty people, including someone very spiritually powerful. After Herb brought up the potential to ask the Senshi for assistance, they headed back to the restaurant to plan and prepare for an attack to recover Lemon.

Ken, Kasumi, Herb and Shampoo gathered with Sailor Mercury, Sailor Venus, and Sailor Jupiter gathered outside the castle within the pocket dimension where Devlin checked the durability of the senshi’s uniforms. He was impressed at the fact that it was fortress level, which not even the barrier around San Cheng Huang, explaining why Herb and Shampoo’s test were so ineffectiveness. The Senshi had also invited Ixion to help. Though he couldn’t really interfere he would provide the perfect distraction since none of the Hunter would be able to hurt him. Devlin figured he was a Geas of some sort.

Convinced they would be useful the group went over there battle plan. Shampoo gave a few details of the layout within and disbursement of the people within. During said meeting Grenda emphasized how they wanted to be quick and non-lethal as their enemy could hold a grudge. Devlin also provided everyone a potion that was essentially the magical equivalent of a ski mask. However, as they group headed out, Shampoo along with Herb attempted to warn Kasumi that perhaps this was a battle they should stay out of. Kasumi, slightly misunderstanding their warnings, decided to proceed, and both continued to accompany her.

Once the fight began, Kasumi, Shampoo, Herb and Jupiter pushed through fairly quickly to the 2nd floor, with Shampoo and Kasumi in the lead. The two rushed off and Jupiter and Herb, caught up in time two disable a man who Kasumi though had been dealt with, only for him to recover. The group would then discover another man who begged for mercy, but would soon be drained of all life. Kasumi tried to save him only to be stopped by Shampoo and Herb as it was already too late. As they were getting over the shock of what happened the corpse explode. The group would then discover another man who begged for mercy, but would soon be drained of all life and then have his corpse explode. While they were recovering from evading this, the previous men were likewise drained, and exploded, but Jupiter managed to shield them from much of this blast. As they once more starter to recover, and Grenda joined them, Shampoo called out a warning and another individual attacked them using an automatic weapon. Grenda quickly ended this threat, and the group was informed all who had been subdued were similarly being drained and exploding. Shampoo would also confirm the 2nd floor was now empty, and only a few were left on the first, much to Kasumi's shock. They would proceed ahead, Shampoo having to prompt Kasumi to continue.

Once in the pocket dimension within, they found a woman finishing off Ken, who was battered and broken. After the woman tossed aside Ken to confront their group, particularly Jupiter, Kasumi and Shampoo circled around to tend to Ken. The woman turned out to be a Dark Kingdom Youma and quickly proved more than a match for Jupiter, Grenda and Herb. Grenda and Herb in particular were bound in her jelly like appendages and being drained, so Kasumi and Shampoo went in to free them. They managed to separate the two from the Youma, stopping the drain. Though free the two were left unable to move. As Kasumi dealt with them, Shampoo attempted to press the attack to free Jupiter who was likewise snared, but the Youma quickly retaliated and violently smashed Shampoo into the ceiling, knocking her unconscious.

After the battle had come to an end, Herb would discover her recovering and apparently far better off than expected, although still weakened. She, along with the others, would reconvene at the San Cheng Huang to deal with a new situation, that of Kasumi now demonstrating a new personality, that of 'Tex'. The group would humor Tex for a few hours, apparently informing Ranma of the situation as well, who fetched Genma. Genma informed them that he has seen Tex briefly before, but he only ever came out for a few minutes. As they pondered what to do, Rose arrived at the restaurant and after some initial distrust, they allowed her to speak with Kasumi-Tex. As Rose considered the situation, a new personality displayed itself, and Rose put Kasumi asleep, directing them to take her to her room.

There, after examining her, Rose said she could not locate Kasumi's normal personality, much to everyone's alarm. She suggested Kasumi might be hiding and offered to send them into Kasumi's mind to locate her. After some discussion, they decided to go ahead, and Shampoo, along with Herb, Makoto, Ukyo, Genma and Ranma all went in. Herb ended up running into Tex in some strange landscape that Genma guessed was an Indian village they had passed through a while back. As he kept the cowboy busy he commented upon how stereotypical Kasumi’s idea of this type was. Ranma figured the tex personality was based on some kid’s show Kasumi saw.

Genma ran into a second cat persona, and it quickly went on a rampage, trying to chase him. Herb warned him to lead it away from the San Cheng Huang but he was killed before he could. Herb and Kasumi-Tex ended up its next target. Herb tried to get him to run, but Tex was to mesmerized to heed the warning and was consumed before Herb could do anything. Under normal circumstances, the sight probably should have been horrific. Herb counted it slightly lucky then that instead he was merely treated to Tex’s form vanishing into a mist and joining with the giant cat. Only to curse as the cat not only began growing larger, but took on a bit more human-like appearance. The cat continued to grow as it consumed the other personalities.

Ranma, Herb and Makoto attempted to lure the cat away while Shampoo dealt with Kasumi who had run away upon seeing the giant cat. Herb and Makoto gained the giant cat’s attention by literally jumping right into its face. Both dodged around the city as it laid waste to it in an attempt to smash them. Fortunately, while their offensive power was useless in this realm, both had retained their agility and speed and this was serving them well at the moment. Herb came up with an idea to lure into the dreamscape version of jusenkyo hoping that it would have some kind of effect. It ended up getting distracted and running off before they could do anything. With the cat persona having consumed all the others, Shampoo, in a desperate gambit, rushed to confront it. This had the desired effect as Kasumi, now likewise gigantic, rescued her and held the cat persona at bay.

Unfortunately, this was little more than a stalemate, as Kasumi was still too frightened to attack. Herb, however, noticed a peculiarity to the cat's actions and after conferring with Ranma for confirmation, spoke with Shampoo about a new plan. Shampoo would then abandon Kasumi to once more confront the cat herself, swatting it across the nose and declaring she loved Kasumi, not it. This had the desired effect as the cat quickly demoralized and shrunk. Kasumi, on seeing this, realized the true nature of the beast, and approached it to talk, finally merging with it. With the dreamscape no longer needed it collapsed and everyone found themselves back in the real world.

Herb became angry when he found Ranma consoling Ukyo outside the door to her room having gone to confront her about running off. Ranma having guessed what happened got him to calm down. He also pointed out that Kasumi should never have been in that situation to start with. Ranma started to walk away when he asked why they didn’t get more people to help, not waiting to hear the same answer. Herb agreed and decided to explain what actually happened with certain omissions, though he left to check up on Lemon first.

Entering Lemon’s room Herb determined that she was okay he then called her out for how foolish her actions were. Letting her know that if it was up to him he would have abandoned her. Lemon asked why Kasumi would risk her life like that for her, and he just answered that it was her way. Before he left Herb warned Lemon not to let it happen again. The next morning, with the arrival of Grenda, he along with Makoto, Shampoo and Ranma would attempt to take out their frustrations on Genma for how Kasumi acquired the Nekoken and her other personalities, but after Kasumi spoke up in his defense, and he groveled, they lost their appetite for such.

After Grenda briefed them on the fallout from their attack, Shampoo would then discuss with Grenda the doorway, puzzling the magus. Devlin and Frost would arrive during the discussion and likewise find the whole thing puzzling, until Frost suggested she found the image of the door familiar. Realizing it was likely linked to the Moon Kingdom, Frost was tasking with looking into that while Grenda promised to decode documentation on the site that might mention it. They would also discuss what to do with this version of Kimiko Tendo, Devlin and Grenda agreeing she couldn't be the real version, and most likely some kind of copy although unknowing what type. They would suggest Shampoo attempt to visit her again and learn more, but only after getting some questions to ask her to prove her identity.

Coming across the Inners he was told that Usagi had accidentally teleported herself to America. While they had a plan to get her back they were trying to figure out a way of explaining her absence, given that her previous ones already drew many questions and concerns. Herb suggested that they use Lemon. Later he could only grimace upon seeing the state of Ken when Frost and Grenda brought her in. Seeing this she quickly tried to brush off his concerns, which Grenda quickly called her out on. Ken’s condition reminded him a lot of what Ukyo went through, though since he decided it was best to ask Ranma about it then her directly.

He was not happy to find Sorora in his room, it turns out that she did try to speak to Eyebright on his behalf. He remained intractable on the issue though. She told him what she new of the organization and warned him not to get to cozy with Grenda as there was a lot of politics involved in things. She did aleve some of his worries, pointing out that not only is the Organization unlikely to have another demon as powerful as the Rouge Youma. They also have no idea who killed her so wont come for revenge.

She also informed him that Eyebright had all of his fathers supporters under close watch. Unfortunately this did nothing to relieve Herb’s concerns as it implied that his father alone is enough of an opponent to keep Eyebright and his entire clan at bay till now. Sorora confirmed that Garnet was a lot more powerful then Herb suspected. Changing the subject she asked him if he had finished his homework.

After realizing what she was talking about Herb admitted that he didn’t have any answers. He knew that there was more to Kasumi and Shampoo’s relationship then just village law, he just didn’t know what. Luckily Sorora never expected him to find the answer she just him to improve his empathy. Sorora then told him that it was time for her to meet Kasumi. Sensing her departure Herb asked if she could teach him anything to help him protect Kasumi. She agreed to agreed to expand their agreement and impart some of her knowledge.

Later that night Kasumi and Shampoo returned to find Ranma, Herb and Makoto in the TV room. Shampoo placed a pair mouse ears on a thoroughly unamused Herb's head while Kasumi asked if they’d missed anything. After glancing at each other they told her no.

Herb woke up the next morning a little worse for wear causing him to take more time then usual to set his thoughts in order and align all his energies. Unfortunately his carefully reorganized thoughts threaten to disorganize once again upon seeing Sorora talking with the others. Rather then delay she felt she might as well get it over with and introduced herself. Saying she had matters to attend to Sorora left Herb to explain who she was.

Ranma was the first to speak causing Herb to frown upon being asked where he was hiding her. He told them no and demanded to know what she told them Kasumi answered that she told them her name and that she was a relative who has been advising Herb. Herb explained Sorora’s nature as a Celestial Dragon as well as went into the history and nature of the Dragon Clan and the Musk. He was shocked when Kasumi asked him about how the Dragon clan maintains their... purity as he never thought about her becoming the Dragon Lord.

Kasumi suddenly switched demeanor and brightened with a smile and showed everyone a strange stone given to her by Cologne. While Herb realized it was a magical he didn’t recognize the symbol on it. Shampoo told then that it was the mark of the Matriarch. They decided to ask Frost about it who explained that it was a speaking stone which is kinda like a mental photograph. Frost activated it using some o her blood.

While the holographic version of Cologne was annoyed to see the others there she had expected it so explained that the original Cologne may have discovered the location of the spirit of Queen Tranquility. Reaction to this was varied. Many were simply puzzled, the name lost on them, but Frost, Shampoo and even Makoto all went wide eyed in shock at the name. Kasumi recognized it as the last queen of the village. Holo-Cologne went on explain the true nature of Queen Tranquility. Herb noticed how uncomfortable Makoto was becoming as the conversation went on.

While Herb was a common figure at morning training, he rarely ever joined the others, and only it seemed when Kasumi insisted. It was not that he didn't train though. He would spar with Mint and Lime, but even that was rare. This day his attention was locked on Ranma, instead of his usual interest in Kasumi. After the training ended Herb marched over to him. The two agreed to meet at the training ground in the woods after school.

While the forest training ground was one they had used a few times before, and actually did have relatively convenient bus access, Herb was waiting for Ranma sans his usual armor. This caused Ranma to briefly play with the idea that he had read the intents wrong, but when Herb rose to meet him, already stretching in preparation, he reaffirmed his original conclusion.

Herb asked Ranma if he intended to marry Ranma, who replied honestly. At this point Ranma was mostly along for the ride right now, he liked Kasumi but the fact this is an arranged marriage meant neither of them had time to truly think about it, however that didn’t mean that he was going to be intimidated into giving up. Ranma’s lack of encouragement annoyed Herb who then asked of Ukyo. Ranma wasn’t in love with her, but he did care about her.

With that the fight started. Herb quickly gained the upper hand, seemingly having a counter thought up to every one of Ranma's strategies. Every technique he had thought to deploy against the prince, Herb had an answer to it, sometimes mirroring or outdoing him at it. Ranma saw elements of Kasumi's, Shampoo's, Rippa's, Ukyo's, Genma's, and his own techniques among others.

He considered a wider set of options, immediately focusing he still had the advantage in hand to hand, the problem was closing to gap between the two. Realizing that a straight up fight was a lost cause Ranma switched tactics and began taunting the prince about his failure to protect Kasumi. It had the desired response of causing Herb to lose his composure, allowing Ranma to lead him to the ridge and activate his curse.

Herb realized her folly a second later just as Ranma bounced back from the river and closed the gap with a flicker. Ranma did not let the opportunity go to waste, hammering the transformed prince with several kicks and punches. It was not a victory condition, however, as Herb quickly recovered even under the onslaught and let out a massive blast of energy, forcing Ranma back. This was still far better circumstances for Ranma as whatever advantage energy tap gave her did nothing for her body.

The fight became a battle of endurance which they both spent many times over. However, neither stood down, and with one more mutual burst of remaining energy they rushed, or rather hobbled at each other, both throwing punches that solidly connected with the other's chin. It mattered little. The punches had no strength to them. In fact, it was the motion itself that finally did them both in as neither could recover from it.

With the battle over the two gained a mutual respect for each other Ranma and Herb declared a truce as they helped each other to the nearest phone to call a taxi, only for it to quickly end as they raced to get there first. It was several hours later when the pair arrived home by taxi. They barely made it through the front door before being confronted by Kasumi who had figured out what they were doing. She immediately went from slightly disappointed to deeply concerned.

Ranma assured her that they were both fine, but she didn’t buy it. Herb concurred that they hadn’t sustained serious injury. She asked what they had been doing and they told her they were having a friendly discussion. Kasumi frowned, but when both refused to reveal more, she was forced to simply sigh in defeat. She took it as a good time to teach Shampoo the basics. As they both started healing some of the wounds, Kasumi asked about their talk. They told her that they came to an understanding. Kasumi looked between the two skeptically, but finally let herself smile just a little.

Ever since Kasumi was kidnapped Herb has been studying the various fighters of Nerima using his ability as a ki adapt to incorporate their techniques into his repertoire. These include techniques from Ranma, Kasumi, Shampoo, Rippa, Ukyo, and Genma. However he proved to be incompatible with the Ha Do and Burning Soul techniques as they would require substantial modification to work with his energy system to perform. While Herb is able to compensate for the lack of ki using the Energy Tap technique he developed, but that does nothing for his actual body. It also takes up valuable concentration to perform. This means that his female form still lacks stamina and endurance, though now that his curse has been unlocked he is able to access his full power.

Ranma and Herb were talking when they were interrupted by the arrival of Grenda, Shampoo, and Kasumi. They greeted them and at that moment, a thought hit Grenda. It turns out that Happosai had been trying to steal her underwear while she was in the shower and she wasn’t wearing her glasses she ended up turning him to stone when she caught him. After a few seconds of silence, Ranma was the first to ask if he was alive. It turns out that he was just in a sort of suspended animation and reading the room gave them a vial that would turn him back when they were ready. Stating that he could use a vacation Kasumi picked up the statue, while Shampoo grabbing up the vial and the two headed off together.

Grenda turned to head to the Karaoke bar to wait but Ranma called out to her. Ranma asked her if anyone had ever tried to do magic with ki instead of mana. She told him that there was never any success as while the two wee definitely closely related, it's kinda like the relation between ice and water. You can make a sculpture out of ice, but not so much water. However she assured Ranma that ki had many applications that are rather poor for mana. Ranma thanked her before heading off. He made it only as far as the stairs though before Herb caught up to him and called him out for giving up so easily.

Herb pointed out that Grenda only said that chi magic had not been very successful, not that it was completely useless. He even offered his own knowledge on the subject. While it was dangerous, given Ranma’s current training and skill set he could use of it in some... creative manner. Ranma huffed at Herb, but as the prince left sight, he agreed with him.

It was pretty quiet while Frost was gone with nothing much of interest happening. Shampoo’s Japanese came along to the point where she no longer refered to herself in the first person, though she still hadn’t fully mastered the language. What excitement there was was dealt with easily enough. Tatewaki took Kasumi, Shampoo, Ranma, Herb, Kodachi, Ryoga, Akane, Ranko, Mousse, Lemon, Nabiki and Tsubasa on a boat trip and were lost at sea when a storm hit. They ended up shipwrecked on a remote island, and after making shelter they started to make repairs only to discover that the ships radio equipment got knocked out in the storm. As they were trying to figure out what to do the girls started disappearing.

First Kodachi, then Lemon and Nabiki, and then Akane getting the sense that something else was on the island, but unable to trace what it was, they ended up setting a trap. Kasumi volunteered to be bait, and it wasn't long before the kidnappers made themselves known. Prince Toma and his chief retainers Sarutoru, Torristan, and Wonton, using various illusionary magics to hide themselves. Seeing that they already had several of their number, Kasumi suggested simply letting them take them and follow. The plan nearly went awry as they proved capable of flight, but fortunately the next morning Togenkyo Island had appeared and they made their way over.

It seems the former ruler of their island, Toma's father, recently passed away in an untimely fashion. He requires a bride to ascend fully to the throne so they were rushing a bridal ceremony. It is an old tradition where they were kidnapping a bunch of girls from all the neighboring islands to be candidates for his bride. Much to their surprised however when they tracked the girls down they found them treated as queens. Which is why the other islands usually willingly have their younger maids cooperate as it is a very pampered atmosphere.

They were actually enjoying themselves Toma had them compete to be his bride in strange contests which are designed to amuse him. Kasumi and Shampoo were exempt since they were already married. He ends up choosing Akane Tendo, because she reprimands him about his treatment of the girls. After this his men take their own picks of the other women. After dealing with the retainers and checking to ensure all the other girls were safe they began looking for Akane who was taken by Prince Toma. Herb got to her and Toma first, and they had it out.

While Toma believed that they were fighting for Akane’s affection Herb simply wanted his gourd of mystic water as he wished to test if it would cure his curse. Ranko and Mousse both arrived shortly after Herb and Toma was forced to stand down as his illusions were useless on two of them and while he was a formidable fighter, he was no match for all 3 of them at once. Akane stepped in to cool things off, and after that they all came to a bit of an understanding. They were allowed to stay on the island until they ventured close enough to Japan to be taken ashore.

Everyone was enjoying the sun when Herb sensed Frost’s presence. He went to go tell Kasumi who was watching over Shampoo as she attempted to talk with the Great Tree. Kasumi had sensed her as well and sure enough Frost showed up a short while later along with Tofu. Frost paused when Kasumi kindly greeted her, calling the girl out for being so casual since she had been missing without a trace. Kasumi admitted that after everything that had happened she hadn’t had the time to consider that. Soon Shampoo opened her eyes, stretched quickly and jumped to her feet with a smile hugging her fellow amazon. Kasumi asked how Frost was able to find them, Herb gave her a slight frown when she admitted that that she had traced her but everyone else seemed to let the matter go by without question.

After only a moment they arrived at another clearing where the rest of Kasumi's group were situated. On seeing the newcomers, everyone took notice and moved to greet them. With everyone together they explained what had happened since they were gone. Learning about Toma Frost called him a degenerate, coincidentally Toma and his men showed up just as she said it. Herb told her to hold her tongue and let them handle it. Kasumi managed to calm him down and since she vouch for Frost and Tofu he decided to let the matter of his men drop. Though seeing as they had away to leave he told Akane she could give him her answer before promptly turning to leave, his men bowing slightly and quickly following.

Akane hung her head and explained to Frost that Toma wanted to marry her and how she had been stalling for time. She initially took Ranma’s sawing how weird Toma was for liking assertive woman, but really couldn’t argue when he reminded her that it was only after she slapped him that he chose her. Kasumi remembered Ranko’s anti magic ability, but after some experimentation Frost determined that she could be flown back, though she wouldn’t be affected by the momentum canceling magic.

Akane asked if they could just leave, Kodachi called her out for trying to ghost the prince and Herb mentioned that there was no telling what trouble that may be caused down the line if she just disappeared on him. Unable to argue Akane realized it was best to get it over with and headed off, the others soon following suit. Herb motioning for Shampoo to lag behind to briefly talk, something noticed by Frost but she said nothing as they soon followed as well.

Dinner was an interesting yet uneventful affair. The whole group gathered around a huge dining table with abundant food served of various varieties. Only Toma from the island's people sat at the table, at its head naturally, as his retainers served and observed everything. The topic of the proposal had been avoided as the rest of the group did what they could to keep small talk going so Akane had time to strategize.

Unlike everyone else who seemed to greatly enjoy their meals, Ranko, Herb, and Shampoo ate minimally as they could see what the food actually was instead of the illusion Toma projected. When Tofu asked Toma about the island he told him that no one knew why only males were born on the island, not even Shampoo could get anything from the Great Tree. Hearing about the water Tofu asked Herb if he tried it. Frost flipped out when Herb answered yes calling him out for mixing curses. He just rolled his eyes and told her he just analyzed the twos potential interactions without actual experimentation. The result was fairly obvious.

Kasumi commented on her regret that Genma would receive a cure; Ranma commented that he most likely would have just turned into a pandaman. No saw Kasumi amused smile at this thought. As the table went quiet for a moment, Toma finally took this as the opportunity to speak on the main topic on his mind. Akane told him that she couldn’t marry as she had other plans. When he asked her what they were she impulsively told him that she was in love with Ranko. Akane slightly cringed as everyone else at the table, save the person named, all looked surprised. Ranko, by contrast, who had only been half paying attention, suddenly became aware.

Toma, to no one's surprise, was quite confused by this revelation and stared at Ranko for several seconds as he tried to process what he had just heard. Akane whispered to her begging her to go along so she confirmed to Toma that they were dating. Toma responded by challenging Ranko to a fight to determine her worthiness. Akane tried to interject, but Toma already sharply rose to his feet telling his men to prepare the main hall.

In a panic Akane asked Ranko why she did that, however she wasn’t worried since Toma almost exclusively used magic. Herb cautioned her about being so over confident, pointing out that Toma wasn’t stupid and while he could say what it was obvious that the prince had an angle. Ranko however still dismissed it. It was only a short while before the main hall within the tree was prepared with a simple open circle where Ranko and Toma could have their duel. Kasumi's group sat themselves at the perimeter on one side, while Toma's retainers and some other guards and islanders took a similar position opposite them. Ranko jumped down onto the battle floor confidently as Toma floated down onto his side.

Akane told Ranko that she didn’t have to do this; she assured her that she would be fine. She even teased Akane telling her that if she felt so guilty then she can take her on a real date when she won. Akane tried to reply in shock but at that moment Toma started advancing to the center and Ranko did likewise. Whatever Akane's reply would be was thus silenced and she sat down with the others to observe. Sure enough the duel soon began and the two exchanged various attacks to test the other's defenses and abilities. Kicks and punches were exchanged and likewise deflected. In the early going, neither was pushing themselves, but neither was making significant progress either.

Ranma wondered why Toma wasn’t using his sword; Herb told him that he uses it as a focus of his magic, so it would largely be useless. However from what he’s seen of his skills, Ranko should still have an edge. This made him worried as Toma might simply be underestimating Ranko, but he seemed too confident even now for that. As Herb gave his analysis, Ranko started to amp things up, and although she was fending off all of Toma's attacks, she was slowly pushing him back. Yet, despite this, Toma seemed unshaken. Just as the fight started to seem as if it would be a slow but inevitable victory for Ranko there was a flash and Ranko flew back, tumbling across the floor as she hit it.

The others could just watch in shock having no idea what happened. Ranko got up painfully as Toma slowly advanced on her. Again she went on the attack and just as before their exchange was close, but Ranko seemed just that bit better and was pushing the prince onto the defense. However, just as before there was a flash and Ranko was sent flying. Herb was the able to figure it out, he explained that Toma was using raw mana and since that should do basically nothing he realized the prince was using a technique called Kankaho.

Ranko's latest knock back had taken its toll and she was struggling to get up. Figuring it was time to change strategy so pondered the situation as Toma approached. Toma asked her if she gave up, but she just brushed him off and more rushed onto the attack, in what seemed to be a repeat of the last round. Everyone was puzzled as that is indeed exactly what happened, as Ranko was once more blasted away by the flash. This time Ranko struggled up, wiping away a bit of blood from her lips but smiled and once more went on the attack. Those observing were tense, but many were also sitting back slightly to study the exchange. Akane took note of this, turning away just a moment before another flash came, and she sharply looked back. However, to her surprise while Ranko had been knocked back, she landed easily on her feet.

This time it was Kasumi who figured it out Ranko had figured out the timing of Toma’s attack. Hearing this Akane watched intently as Ranko and Toma's exchange started and then there was another flash. However, this time Akane saw it, Ranko pre-emptively moving to shield herself from the attack, blunting its force with her ki shield. Still, she was forced back, and Toma now looked a bit worried. Toma also appeared not to have fully mastered Kankaho and Ranko was trying to find his lower limit.

Two more blunted exchanges passed with Ranko becoming more aggressive each time and recovering that much faster. Finally though, Ranko seemed to have her answer as she slipped through several punches before Toma could blast her away, but even this was blunted and Ranko was quickly back on the attack. Now the exchanges shifted, Ranko pressing hard initially but as soon as Toma's window of opportunity to use the blast arrived, she gave herself more room while still keeping up the pressure. While Toma could delay his attack, he could not speed it up any more, so steadily he was now taking blows, and his trump card was doing little but giving him a small gap that Ranko quickly closed to only dial up the offense once again.

It wasn't long before Toma finally abandoned the technique and simply tried to fight conventionally, but this was too little too late, as Ranko had him figured out thoroughly by that point and was consistently bypassing his guard until it was his turn to be dropped to the floor, much to his retainer's shock and dismay. There positions reversed Ranko asked Toma if he gave up and angered Toma was able to calm himself down and admit his defeat.

Ranko smiled triumphantly and likewise returned to his own group. However as she reached them, Kasumi asked her broken ribs which Ranko thought she had hid. Though freaked Akane managed to keep herself from screaming, causing Ranko to assure her that she was fine. They still needed to be healed so they group helped her into the seating area. Shortly later, the group was gathered at the dragon and already boarding as Frost was modifying the interior. Toma and his retainers were seeing them off and Kasumi took the initiative to thank him and wish him well for their group. She rejoined them just as Frost was assuring Ranko that it was safe.

Ranma and Akane made sure that Ranko was okay, Akane tried to apologize only to be dismissed with Ranko saying there was nothing to be sorry about. When they were far enough away from the island Frost asked her Herb and Shampoo what they actually ate. Herb told her not to worry about it, but this led to the others asking what she meant. Again he told that it was nothing to worry about as the food was perfectly healthy. Frost switched the topic to what she missed.

Herb met up with Frost the next day bringing Lemon with him. When Herb asked to discuss a matter of curiosity she initially thought he wanted to talk about Jasmine. However Herb wasn’t aware that Jasmine was his grandmother. The Musk don’t talk about women in the family, and it was even worse in the royal family. Herb didn’t even know his mother; however Sorora did tell him that she was in contact with Jasmine on occasion. Jasmine told Frost the same thing, she and Herb agreed that the two weren’t close they just had a mutual hatred for Garnet. What Herb actually wanted to discuss was the Togenkyo Island water having brought a canteen of it for her to examine. He wanted to know if the magic on the water was the same fruit from the island.

Frost confirmed what Herb suspected the magic from the water was contaminating any food grown on the island. Lemon began to panic at this revelation, but Frost assured her that it was too weak to be effective. This was however the reason why all the inhabitants were born male. Frost ask why he didn’t bring this up why they were there, but given the unique situation between the islanders, and those of the villages on the islands they pass he didn’t want to upset the balance.

Herb asked to examine the curse placed on Lemon next and there were similarities. Ever since Toma mentioned, that those afflicted would be unable to love a man in female guise he thought of the Kitsune curse. While they weren’t the same Frost that the same person had cast them. Before either of them could say anything mixing these two curses wouldn't be a cure, it would be a disaster for whoever did such. Any clue to its source was still a big clue. Herb allowed Frost to keep the water as he had been planning to have her dispose of it anyway.

Peach returned to Japan gathering Kasumi, Herb, Shampoo, Makoto, Ranma, Genma, Lemon and Akane at the San Cheng Huang pocket dimension to warn them that Lemon’s mother had slipped away from the Fox Clan and was likely looking for trouble. They were interrupted by Frost exiting her pocket dimension. Kasumi was forced to assure Peach that the door didn’t bypass the barrier before they could get things on track. Herb asked if Palm planned on taking Lemon, however Peach honestly didn’t know. While it was a possibility it wasn’t likely as no clan would take them if Palm just forcibly took Lemon back. Kasumi suggested that Palm would just take Lemon and live on her own. Though she didn’t explain why Peach knew that was just as unlikely. Her theory was that Palm was coming after Kasumi which is why she was there. Peach would act as Kasumi’s bodyguard while Kasumi stayed in the barrier until they get things sorted out.

After explaining Palm’s ability to them Peach called them out for not confirming she was who she said she was before letting her in. Shampoo would be the key to detecting Palm. Sadly, all they could really do now was wait for Palm to do something, either give up and go home or gets fed up and confronts Peach. Peach’s final instruction was to make sure that Ranko came nowhere near her. With that she left to prowl the neighborhood. Frost asked why they didn’t just let hand Lemon over, but they had asked that before she arrived. Given the circumstances the Fox clan wouldn’t respect the choice and consider it coerced.

With that the group began to break up, but Herb came over to Frost, while Ranma likewise lingered. He asked if they could track Palm using the same spell she used to find Lemon. Unfortunately it needed tons of magic and the artifacts required were still recharging. Frost also suspected that Palm had already taken steps to avoid being found. All she could really do was set up some extra security measure. Herb nodded and headed out, leaving only Ranma.

He next went to Lemon to ask her if she had anyway to deal with her mother. Lemon tells him that Palm was never really a attentive mother so convincing her to go home was out. The best Lemon could do was smell her something Herb new before he came. Herb turned to leave only to see Ranma walking up having had the same idea. Herb told him it was pointless causing Ranma to groan in frustration. Neither boy noticed Lemon wince at this. Ranma asked Herb if Sorora could help, but he had already tried to contact her. as Peach stated all they could really do was wait.

Ranma, having just finished his early morning set with his father, noticed Ranko by the two newcomers who were currently engaged with a light spar of their own. Curious, he joined her to ask why she wasn’t fighting. Herb walked over as well. Ranma was surprised when Ranko admitted that a match for them. Seeing that she wasn’t lying he decided to see for himself how strong the two were. She told Herb that seeing the real them would cause a lot of question so he shouldn’t worry about it. Herb conceded, watching as Ranma had apparently gotten Kane to agree to a quick match, and quick it was. Ranma found himself on the ground within seconds, and even as a third party observer, Herb could not fully understand how. Two more brief bouts followed with little difference in their results. His ego bruised enough, Ranma dismissed himself after that and rejoined Ranko and Herb. He asked Ranko if they would be up to give him some pointers, but was told they wouldn’t be there long enough to teach him anything. Herb frowned as he watched Shan and Kane start a spar, but simply shook his head and likewise walked off causing Ranko to smirk.

Later that day Herb found Ranma sitting in the vacant entertainment room practicing. When the prince asked him what he was doing he explained that he was using the ki control technique Shampoo showed him to correctly trace the flow of his ki. Herb was impressed that Ranma was adapting the Ha Do technique to supply himself with the foreign ki necessary to complete the glyphs successfully. Herb had come over to talk to Ranma as a distraction. Kasumi and Shampoo had been there all day with little else to do. Realizing what he was talking about Ranma joked about Herb suggesting a threesome. The thought of that ever happening and was surprised that Ranma was so comfortable with it. Ranma however wasn’t and realizing he couldn’t keep attempting to draw glyphs with this thought now in his head he asked Herb if he loved Kasumi.

Herb confirmed it without hesitation causing Ranma to laugh at how easy it was for him. Herb meanwhile was annoyed that Ranma still couldn’t express his feelings. Ranma asked Herb about Shampoo and this time he did hesitate. He finally said that it wasn’t the same with her. This Ranma could relate to. He told Herb that he likes both Kasumi and Shampoo and would probably risk his life for either one; it just didn’t have that fire. Herb pointed out that they’d already had this converstation. Ranma’s talk with Shan got him thinking out it again. When Herb asked Ranma what she said he told him that Shan’s soon to be husband is the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. Herb was about to leave Ranma to his thoughts when both noticed the sound of a pair of feet rushing down the hall. He and Ranma both looked to the open door of the room to see Frost appear there. Both boys concluded what they were about to hear was not good news from the magus' expression.

Palm had attacked Akane, Kodachi and Ranko luckily they were rescued by Kane and Shan. The whole group was now at the restaurant within the pocket dimension, along with Kasumi, Shampoo, Herb, Ranma, Frost and even Lemon. Peach told them they were lucky as she neared the completion of her treatment of Akane. Kodachi was sitting nearby, recovered but looking unamused while Kane was doing her own treatment of Ranko who was still struggling to breath without coughing. This is far more troubling than Peach was expecting. Granted this was not directly that serious, they all would have recovered in time, but it was dangerous regardless, and Palm may have been intending to kidnap the three.

Ranma was the first to ask what they do next. It’s obvious that Palm wasn’t just going after Kasumi, Peach can't protect everyone all at once, and they can't all hold up in here indefinitely. Herb pointed out that this was most likely Palm’s goal when she attacked. Ranma suggested that they call the Fox clan, but was disgusted when told that since one of their own isn’t at threat they wouldn’t be here instantly like last time. For now all they could do was continue to wait. There was also the fact that they needed to bring the others to the pocket dimension so that they wouldn’t be in any danger. Ranma went off to call the dojo with Herb telling him to wait for Peach she could escort them. Akane left to go get some cloths. Kodachi decided to take her chances at home. If Palm chooses to attack her again at least they would know the extent to which she would stoop, the others nodded and started to break up into smaller groups to talk.

The morning practice session was unsurprisingly far less enthusiastic from normal. Ranma was off by himself, continuing his tracings. Herb was nearby but engaged in some simple magic practice, running through drills Sorora had instructed him on. Only Makoto and Akane were sparring with each other, with the rest of the group save the adults, who were currently elsewhere entirely, meeting off to the side out of earshot. It was this scene that Lemon watched intently, trying to muster up the courage to finally act. As Ranma began conversing with Herb as both continued their practice, Lemon found the strength and approached them. What they were discussing went unheard as they noticed her approach and both turned to her curiously. She asked the two if they could talk for a moment. Herb said nothing, merely ceasing his practice to regard her. Ranma likewise stopped his practice and nodded.

Lemon paused in consideration, stealing a glance back at the others before returning to the two boys. She asked if they would escort her outside so that she could try and call her mother off. Ranma considered for a moment, glancing back at Herb who gave no input on the matter. Finally he put up his arms and shrugged. While Herb called Ranma out on his recklessness he agreed as well. Herb suggested that they keep the party short if they wanted Palm to approach them. Ranma agreed that the three of them would be enough. He asked Lemon when they should go and seeing Lemon's intense look got his answer.
Having not expected it to be so easy Lemon stopped Ranma when he tried to leave, stressing to him that it could be dangerous.

Having long since grown tired of the whole affair Ranma was willing to risk it. Both he and Herb stated that they weren’t helpless, Herb even pointed out that Palm wouldn’t want a prolonged engagement as it will attract Peach's attention. If all else failed they could always just run. As the kitsune rushed off to get her cloak Ranma asked Herb what he thought their chances were. He got a shrug as an answer. Palm's motivations were still quite the mystery. If nothing else, they could gain some info on her. Ranma agreed before noticing Lemon return from the castle with her cloak in hand, already making her way to the portal door. Telling Herb he’d meet them at the door Ranma left to go tell Kasumi.

Sometime later, the trio of Lemon, Ranma and Herb could be found atop the roof of a local apartment building. It wasn't the tallest in the neighborhood, but tall enough to allow good visibility while also being accessible. After walking about the area for several hours with no success, they had collectively agreed to simple wait for Palm to come, if she would. Lemon was currently sitting on the wall surrounding the rooftop, looking out through the safety fence at the city below, while Ranma and Herb sat against the rooftop stair enclosure. Ranma, at that moment, was looking to the sky in boredom, while Herb traced out some patterns in the air in front of him.

With nothing better to do Ranma asked Herb what he was doing. Herb expressed his frustration that Sorora wasn’t teaching him any useful magic, merely fundamentals. The fact she rarely visited made it worse. Ranma smirked at this but said nothing. Instead he gave his sympathies as he wasn’t really making any headway either. Herb was surprised as it seemed like Ranma had been making some progress, it just wasn’t enough for Ranma however. Herb told Ranma that he was developing something fairly new so it was expected to be reasonably slow going. Ranma accepted this. After checking on Lemon Ranma changed the subject asking Herb why Lime and Mint hadn’t come with them. It turns out that they had been making a fuss about him going off on his own all the time. It’s just that circumstances simply have not favored them being involved.

There conversation was interrupted by the weather rather suddenly shifting for the worse. They initially thought it was the usual Nerima weather but quickly realized something was wrong. In mere moments there entire surroundings had shifted, like the whole of the city had suddenly been assaulted by some particularly aggressive vegetation which was now growing everywhere. Trees and bush quickly sprouted up through the concrete of the ground beneath them, forcing them to move as they shot into the sky. Remembering Lemon Ranma looked around, and sure enough the kitsune was nowhere to be seen. When he turned back to Herb he noticed the distance between them had somehow increased. Where before they had been just a few strides apart, now they were at nearly ten times that distance. Realizing that Palm was trying to separate them the two accelerated towards each other.

Unfortunately they couldn’t sense Lemon. Ranma believed they were in a pocket dimension, expressing his frustration at the versatility of spatial magic when Herb told him it was something else. Herb however was worried as he hadn’t expected Palm to powerful enough to create a conceptual space. He groaned as he felt the distinct sensation of a downpour beginning. "Naturally," he, or rather she, bemoaned as the Jusenkyo transformation took hold. As frustrating as it was it seemed to have calmed them both down. Ranma asked what do they do next, but sadly Herb told him that they were on their own and retreat is no longer an option.

## Ability

As a member of the Dragon clan Herb is a incredibly powerful ki adapt. His most basic attacks consist of him shooting out torrents of raw ki that weave and swing around in snake-like waves. However his curse has significantly weakened him since she hasn’t adjusted quite well to her female form. Specifically she can not replace lost energy as fast, and thus gets tired more easily then she did as male, it also takes her longer to call up more power. On a physical level she is shown to be about as skilled as Ranma.

Outside of his martial arts training Herb has had a pretty diverse education such as politics, economics, military strategy, and leadership.