Sunfire looked at the six students as Xavier droned on about his plans for the school, his mind racing. Five girls, one boy (though he could change into a girl under certain circumstances... rather confusing, that). While he knew the circumstances surrounding the discovery of these students, that still didn’t clue him into one problem he hadn’t considered: He’d be running a primarily-female school.
This would be tricky, he thought. He didn’t have the slightest clue how to deal with girls. He would need some friends from his clan, and from other places. Names popped up in his mind for additional help - that Yomiko girl recently retired from British service might prove useful - and a change in curriculum and facilities might be in order.
These kids weren’t your average, proper Japanese teenagers, for the most part. That might be a good thing, all around; however, the nail that sticks up gets hammered down, and these nails were sticking straight up. Mutsumi, Shinobu, and Lain at least made some pretense of face; Ranma looked like a Chinese delinquent, while Millia and Fuujin looked...
Oh.
Shiro sighed, as he realized just how much harder his job had become. These youths couldn’t be proper Japanese skin-to-bone. Heck, with Ranma’s ability, determining ‘proper’ behavior may be next-to-impossible. However, he needed to at least give them training, so they could make appearances. Tea Ceremony and Flower Arranging for six... he added another name to the faculty.
He was so engrossed in his mental adjustments that he didn’t hear Xavier call his name; it took a mental nudge from the Professor to get him to stand. He coughed once, and looked out into the audience.
This was a lot harder than it looked.
“Good morning,” he spoke, his voice wavering. “Professor Xavier has asked me, given the recent events in your lives, to set up a school similar to his, but with values and stresses closer to our own culture’s.” He let out a deep breath. “While his method of teaching in the use and control of mutant abilities is next-to-none, I think that a more proper Japanese discipline may provide better results in the long run - and may supply the best of both worlds. If done properly, the primary critique of the Japanese system - its lack of creativity - may be offset by the creative use, application, and control of our abilities, both in practice and in simulation.” He looked at each of them. “I’ve read your records. I see great potential within you, the ability to be greater than any of your family or mentors ever expected. You have been gifted by the Atom, and those gifts should not be taken lightly.” He looked out toward the children. “Any questions?”
Fuujin raised her hand. “I am concerned about family obligations, and how those would apply here. I do not wish to become a ronin...”
“An understandable question,” Shiro replied. “We recommend you talk with your respective families on this issue when you meet with them. Tell them, frankly, of your situation, and the possibilities this new school offers. If they still do not see reason... I am not sure what to tell you, though I may still be able to offer help from my own clan.”
Shinobu raised a tentative hand. “When will we be able to visit our families again?”
“Arrangements are being made as we speak,” Shiro replied. “We hope to have everyone meet with family and friends safely within a week.”
A hand from Ranma; Shiro raised an eyebrow. “What sort of martial arts will be taught?”
Shiro chuckled; Ranma would make a formidable warrior. “Various forms of kempo, aikido, karate, and judo are directly available; for more... esoteric styles, negotiations with the particular sensei will be necessary. Fortunately, my family is not without resources.”
Mutsumi didn’t raise her hand, even though it looked as though she had a question; after a second, she smiled, and went about her business. Shiro shrugged. “If that is all, I recommend you think about what the Professor and myself have told you, and what it means for your future. Good day.”
As the group broke up to their lives-on-hold, Shiro Yashida smiled. An odd group, yes. But... they would do their families and their country proud.
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(Posted Tue, 05 Nov 2002 07:11)
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