[FIC] Endings and Beginnings (part 7)
Posted: Sat Jun 11, 2005 9:38 pm
“Do you think I should wear this one?”
Kaname held up a nice summer dress. The colors did not match with the nice suit that Sousuke wore. She was well aware of the fact.
“Uhhh… it is not unpleasant… I think it is very… ahhh… colorful.” Sousuke felt a bit uncomfortable, standing in Kaname’s bedroom while Shunya and Ayame drove out to pick up an elderly couple that would be dining with them that evening. The other guests were close enough to walk or take a cab.
“Colorful. Great. That‘s what you said about the wrappings on those new MREs you bought.” She threw it over her shoulder. Not by accident, it would have covered Sousuke’s head had he not snagged it deftly from the air. “How about this one?” She took a hanger out of the closet. The dress it bore was sedate but nicely cut.
“Hmmm… that one appears suitable.” Sousuke fidgeted. He had been very nervous when Kaname invited him into her room. Now, he was wondering if she intended to get dressed in front of him.
“Suitable?” Kaname snorted. “Suitable. Is that all you have to say? Suitable?” That dress flew in a much higher arc, almost hitting the ceiling. Kaname slid a number of plastic wrapped dresses along the closet pole. “Oh. I haven’t worn this one for a while. What do you think?”
“That one is nice, Kaname. I think it would look good on you.” Sousuke knew that Kaname would throw that dress too. Whatever he liked, she would discard. Whatever he didn’t gush over, she would throw his way. Most likely, she would wear the last dress left in the closet.
“Geeez, Sousuke? Nice? That’s almost as bad as ‘suitable’. Nice!” Kaname held the dress against her and looked in the mirror. It really did look very nice. She had a strong urge to wear it. But, she shook her head. For some reason, it just wouldn’t do. She placed it back in the closet.
Sousuke relaxed his stance a bit. He placed both hands behind his back. But, he kept a wary eye on the closet. He was a Specialist. And, it never paid to assume anything with Kaname.
“Oh, might as well be consistent.” Kaname grabbed the dress again and lofted it high above her head, hangar and all. Her aim was errant. It caught on the ceiling fan and flopped this way and that. “Sousuke! Why didn’t you catch that?”
Sousuke sighed. He enjoyed spending time with Kaname, especially since he had not seen her since the party. But, this game was getting old. A rush of guilt had him standing straighter. If he only had so much time left with Kaname, shouldn’t he enjoy every minute? Was he growing tired of her?
“Alright, mister. Prepare to be dazzled. Kaname Chidori, super model.” Kaname held up one of her favorite dresses, one she had never found the right occasion for. “Pretty remarkable, right?”
Sousuke remained silent. He looked at his watch. How long before Kaname made some kind of huffy remark, or a plea for attention? Tick tick tick tick tick…
“Sousuke?” Kaname scowled.
The young soldier remained quiet. Tick tick tick tick…
“The dress, Sousuke. What do you think? You are capable of thinking, aren’t you?” She put one hand on her hip.
“Eight seconds,” Sousuke said out loud. That was for the huffy part. Tick tick tick tick…
“Huh? What kind of nonsense are you babbling?” Kaname frowned and then twitched. “Don’t you want to help me look my best for dinner tonight?”
“Twelve seconds,” Sousuke noted. That took care of the plea for attention.
“Fine. If you don’t want me to find the clothes that make me look beautiful for you, why don’t you just wait out on the street or something. Maybe you can find something suitable to blow up. Or something colorful to shoot.” Kaname turned her back on Sousuke. She started counting in her head.
“You would be beautiful without those dresses, Kaname.” Sousuke knew what Kaname wanted from him. He was also telling the truth.
“What? Without a dress? Are you saying that you would think I would be beautiful walking around without any clothes on?” Kaname knew exactly what Sousuke meant. But, this was her turn. He should have known better. Kaname Chidori is a Specialist in her own right.
“Uhhh… that is not…” Sousuke swallowed hard. Intellectually, he might be able to tell that Kaname was just playing. But, his usual propriety and naivity kicked in first.
“If my father were standing there and heard you say that!” Kaname tried hard not to smile. “Sheeesh. You better get that stuff out of your system before dinner!“ She could tell what Sousuke was thinking. He was imagining some kind of catastrophic and embarrassing scene.
“I… but…” Sousuke finally brought himself under control. No doubt, Kaname thought that she had triumphed. It had been close. Very close. But, he had stopped his step just short of the precipice. “It is not a problem. If your father were present, I would simply inform him that I was speaking the truth, after having seen you naked at the hot springs.” He had never told Kaname that he had been the one who prevented the others from successfully peeping.
“WHAT!”
Kaname dropped the dress she had been holding.
“Though, to be truthful, that was at night with vision equipment. The time with the clothes eating bacteria… incorrectly nicknamed the Full Monty Virus… your nakedness was much closer, and with better lighting.” Susuke walked over to the window, acting nonchalant. It was fun to tease Kaname. Too bad he had not discovered that earlier.
“You… you… you…” Kaname should have known that Sousuke was joking. But, it didn’t matter. If he was telling the truth, he was dead. If he had trumped her, he didn’t deserve to live.
“You are a very attractive woman naked, Kaname.” Sousuke set up for the coup de grace. Still, he found his hand trembling ever so slightly. It was hard for him to be so cavalier on that subject.
“I… you… ummm…… really?” Kaname was obviously being pulled in different directions. The woman in her was glad that Sousuke appreciated her body. The girl I her was glad for attention from a boy she cared about.
“Affirmative. No doubt, you would bring a high price on the Black Market.” Sousuke kept a straight face. “Especially in areas devastated by the recent tsunamis, or countries suffering periods of prolonged economic shortages. The competition in those areas would primarily consist of young girls.”
“I… see…” Kaname refrained from her usually loud and derogatory commentary. Taking a few deep breaths, she came up with the perfect plan. So, Sousuke wanted to act like some kind of man of the world, did he? Fine. “Well then, since you are such a good judge of a woman’s body, here’s something you could help me with.” She walked over to her dresser and opened the top drawer.
“Uhhh…” Sousuke began to sweat again. Heavily. Kaname had picked up a lacy bra. Soon, she was comparing it to another brassiere.
“Which of these do you think might look better?” Kaname asked. She felt a devilish sense of power at that moment. “Here, let me slip one on over my blouse. Tell me how you like it.” This ought to be good! Smiling, Kaname slipped her frilliest bra on.
There was a knock at the door. “Kaname? Are you ready yet?” It was Shunya. He had gotten back sooner than Kaname had expected. Furthermore, she and Sousuke had been so distracted by their playful battle of wits, that note even the trained operative had heard them come into the apartment.
“Do you want me to open the door, Kaname?” Sousuke spoke quietly, with much more bravado than he really felt.
“Kaname? When do expect Sousuke? I want to ask him to keep his profession a secret tonight. If you see him before I do, will you do that for me?”
“Y-Yes… Sure, Daddy…” Kaname froze. She watched as Sousuke took a step back, stopped by the wall behind him.
After Shunya’s footsteps receded, Kaname put her hand over her heart. Looking over at Sousuke, she nodded her head. “OK, Sousuke. Out the window.”
“Kaname?”
“You have to come in through the front door, or Daddy will know you were in here.” Kaname sounded like she was explaining things to an idiot or three year old.
“But… is that truly a problem? I am certain that he must know that you are a responsible young woman.” Sousuke normally would have been more on edge over that topic. But, looking out the window, he found the subject less vexing.
“Hmmm. Maybe you’re right.” Kaname tossed her hair. She began to slide her blouse up in slow increments. “Do you mind waiting here while I get dressed?”
There was a sound of a sliding window. The street noise got louder, as a nice breeze came in through the opening.
When Kaname turned around, Sousuke was gone.
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“It’s from Fujimamas”
Shunya was speaking with Takeji Akashiya, accountant and childhood friend. His wife Makiko, a councillor at a health clinic, chatted with Kaname as she filled her plate from a catered buffet.
“Oh. This is quite the treat, then.” Mineko Tetsuya, one of Shunya’s high school teachers, made her way slowly towards the rented tables set up in the living room area.
“Yes. Almost as nice as being helped by a pretty young lady.” Mineko’s husband Hideki, a retired chemist, shuffled along with help from Kaname.
“Did you get any chicken nuggets, Daddy?” Ayame pouted. The nice spread of Asian, Austrailain, Mediterranean, African, and Indian foods did not contain any pizza, fried chicken, tacos, or French fries. “Cheeseburgers?”
“Hmmm. Let me see. We have Smoked Salmon Rolled in Crepes with Green Onions and Sour Cream… Chicken and Wild Mushroom Roulades with Curry Mayonnaise… Chinese Dim Sum…” He walked along the cloth draped tables, pointed to metal bins heated by small flames. “…Vietnamese Vegetable Salad Rolls with Miso Sesame Sauce… Eggplant Sundried Tomatoes and Shiso Crostini…”
“I believe this must be their Tuna with Cucumbers, Maui Onions, Tomatoes and Soy Sauce Vinaigrette, and that must be the Seared Ahi with Shiso, Kaiware and Soy Mustard Cream.” Makiko was a big fan of Fujimamas.
“Oooh. That’s the Tandoori Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce…” Takeji recognized his wife’s favorite. Looking for his own, he found it. “Shunya, thank you. Teppanyaki Cod with Teriyaki Sauce.”
“Think nothing of it, old friend.” Shunya smiled. He hadn’t seen his friends for a number of years.
“Great!” Ayame turned her nose up sarcastically. “I guess I’ll just make a plate with Cookies, Chocolate Eclairs, and these fruit tart things.” She reached for the dessert tray.
“Ayame. You will mind your manners, especially in front of company.” Shunya looked at his youngest daughter. His face was stern. “This dinner is in honor of your sister’s graduation. If you wish to act childish, you may do so in your room.”
“I believe that your father is correct, Ayame.” Sousuke picked up a plate. “Sometimes one must make sacrifices for the benefit of others. I have eaten many foods over the years that might not suit my taste. One does what one must.”
“That’s a very responsible attitude, young man. I wish more young people these days would think about someone other than themselves.” Hideki piled more food on his plate than he could comfortably carry.
“Yes, too many children are caught up in violence and irrational behavior. It’s nice to meet such a quiet and well-grounded young man.” Mineko dropped one of the serving spoons. “Oh my.”
Kaname had started coughing. Sousuke, nonviolent? Rational? Well-grounded? She walked over and retrieved the spoon.
Shunya gave Sousuke a contemplative look, wondering if the young man actually meant what he said, or was pandering to the crowd.
Ayame’s look was rather petulant.
“However, acting on behalf of others often brings its own rewards.” Sousuke put an éclair on his plate. That was followed by a number of different cookies and a fruit tart. “Life comes with no guarantees. It is best to honor those you care about each day, as you do not know how long you or they might have.” Sousuke looked briefly at Kaname, and then back at the plate he was carrying. “One should also enjoy what they can, when they can.” He gave the desserts to Ayame.
“For me?” Ayame’s eyes went wide. She looked over at her father, and then at Sousuke. “Thank you. But Daddy said no.” She put the plate down, her finger lingering on one of the cookies.
“That is admirable control,” Sousuke said amiably. “I wish that your sister was so adept.” Sousuke swallowed hard. He had been honest. It would have been better if he had been quiet. “I… what I meant…”
The sound of a spoon bouncing off of a table could be heard. Kaname looked pale, but soon turned red. The spoon, full of Peanut Wontons, had left a trail of food down the trembling girl’s dress.
Ayames’ smile widened.
Shunja closed his eyes for a moment, and then opened them. Sousuke was quite a conundrum. At first he had been furious, when the boy seemed to override his parental order to Ayame. But, he might have been giving his daughter a chance to improve her appearance before the guests, given his words. Then, with his own reputation in the ascendancy, he made that remark about Kaname.
“I’ll go get changed,” Kaname said, trying to smile. Walking past Sousuke, she stopped. It would have been wiser to keep walking. “This time, I should make you jump off the roof while I get dressed.” She had tried to make it so only Sousuke could hear her. She failed.
Another spoon made its way to the floor. Shunya looked at his empty hand, and then at Kaname. Ayame rubbed her hands together.
“It’s so difficult raising girls,” Makiko said. She had five daughters.
“Yes,” Shunya said, staring at Sousuke.
Kaname had her new dress on in no time. After tossing her soiled clothing in the washing machine, she joined the others at the buffet tables. Looking at Sousuke, she scowled. Catching a glimpse of her father’s face, she felt a chill run through her.
“So, young man, aren’t you going to serve yourself some food? This is truly fine cooking.” Takeji looked over at Sousuke.
“You said that you had eaten many foods over the years that might not suit my taste. Are you like so many boys today, a fan of noodles and little else?” Makiko placed a spoon of Lemongrass-flavored Thai Seafood Salad on her neatly arranged plate.
“No Mam,” Sousuke answered. “I was referring to situations where I was forced to live off the land.” He didn’t hear Shunya’s ‘Ahem,’ which sounded more like a cough than a word. “One can, with relatively few exceptions, eat anything that crawls, swims, walks, or flies. The first obstacle is overcoming your natural aversion to a particular food source.” He went ahead with his instruction, despite the noises that Kaname mad. “Historically, people in starvation situations have resorted to eating everything imaginable for nourishment.”
“Well that’s really fascinating,” Kaname said quickly. “But I’m certain that no one wants to hear that kind of stuff.” Her voice made it plain that the topic was out of bounds. “Hmmmpppfff!”
“One shouldn’t rush to conclusions, Kaname. That’s another failing of young people today.” Mineko took a few spoonfuls of food off of her husband’s plate. When she turned to face Sousuke, her husband put the food back on. “When I was a teacher, the children were eager to learn new things. Even Shunya.” She smiled at her former pupil. “You were saying?” That last was directed to Sousuke.
“Insects are the most abundant life form on earth, and they are insects are easily caught. They provide sixty-five to eighty percent protein compared to twenty percent for beef. This fact makes insects an important, if not overly appetizing, source…”
“Sousuke…” Kazname tried to get Sousuke’s attention. He was too deep into his spiel.
“Insects to avoid include all adults that sting or bite…hairy or brightly colored insects… and caterpillars and insects that have a pungent odor. I would also recommend that one avoid spiders and common disease carriers such as ticks, flies, and mosquitoes…” Sousuke stood with one hand behind his back, like he was lecturing a new recruit on the basics of Arm Slave maintenance. “Amphibians…”
“Sous-kay…” Kaname gripped her plate so tightly that her fingers hurt.
“Frogs and salamanders are easily found around bodies of fresh water. Frogs seldom move from the safety of the water's edge. At the first sign of danger, they plunge into the water and bury themselves in the mud and debris….” As Sousuke spoke, he didn’t notice the dark look on Kaname’s face, the disbelief in Shunya’s eyes, or the grin Ayame had at seeing her sister’s reaction. “There are few poisonous species of frogs. Avoid any brightly colored frog or one that has distinct "X" mark on it's back. Do not confuse toads with frogs. You normally find toads in drier environments. Several species of toads secrete a poisonous substance through their skin as a defense against attack. Therefore…”
“SOUSUKE!!!”
Kaname’s shout set a number of things in motion. The loud noise caused Takeji to spasm. A prawn flew through the air, bouncing off of Shunya’s newly polished shoe before rolling to a stop by the front door. Worse, as she vented her anger, Kaname had shaken the spoon in Sousuke’s general direction. A blob of mustard saudce clung to Ayames’ nose, while the spring roll it had been covering bounced onto Makiko’s plate.
“Oh, Mrs. Tetsuya, I am so-o-o-o sorry,” Kaname said, mortified.
“Do not forget your sister,” Sousuke said. That earned him a smile from Ayame, who was otherwise fit to be tied.
“You…… had…… better…… worry…… about…… yourself…” Kaname said to Sousuke through her teeth.
“It’s alright, Shunya.” Mineko said. “Children will be children. I remember what you were like in high school.” No doubt, the evening wouldn’t end without some of those stories being told. “You shouldn’t be too concerned if your daughter is a little high strung. She may grow out of it. Some girls are like that, especially when they are faced with big changes in their lives.”
Shunya mumbled his agreement. Ayame ran to get changed. She hurried, because she didn’t want to miss a thing. The look Kaname gave Sousuke promised retribution.
“So, you were saying?” Hideki asked Sousuke.
“It might be best….” Shunya tried to redirect the conversation.
“Nonsense Shunya.” Mineko said. “Earlier, you were trying to get the boy to open up and talk. There’s no harm in sharing what he knows.”
“I do not wish to cause any trouble,” Sousuke said. He began to wonder if any of the ruckus was his fault. But, how could it be? He had only been telling what he knew about survival foods.
“Please. Go ahead,” Mineko said.
“Sir?” Sousuke looked over at Shunya. He watched as Kaname gave her father a pleading look. Ayame was nodding her head.
“Fine.” Shunya looked over at Kaname. His meaning was clear. Kaname smiled a crooked smile at Sousuke. Her meaning was clear too. Retribution was only the beginning…
“Yes. Well. Where was I?” Sousuke thought a moment. “Worms are an excellent protein source. Dig for them in damp humus soil or watch for them on the ground after a rain….”
Kaname took a step towards Sousuke, her plate tipping precariously. She stopped when her father held his hand up.
“After capturing them, drop them into clean, potable water for a few minutes. The worms will naturally purge or wash themselves out, after which you can …” Sousuke was unable to finish. There was a loud crashing noise. Hideki had dropped his plate.
“SOUSUKE, YOU BIG IDIOT!”
By habit, Kaname shouted. Catching herself, she continued only slightly less quietly. “Look what you did!”
“My goodness. She is certainly a loud child. Even louder than you were, Shunya.” Mineko turned her hearing aid down in volume in the ear nearest to Kaname. “But, maybe that’s how girls get boys to take notice of them these days.”
Kaname stared incredulously. She was too stunned by the whole situation to help clean up the large mess.
“It’s certainly not Sousuke’s fault,” Hideki said. “Blame these arthritic hands of mine. I put way too much food on my plate.” He nodded when his wife gave him a ‘I told you so’ look. “If anything, the topic made me nostalgic. We were taught something like that back when I was in the military.”
Kaname stamped her foot. It was indeed Souske’s fault. Were her father’s friends too senile to see that. She blushed when all of the adults looked at her, disapproving her fit of pique.
“You’re a strong and healthy looking young man, Sousuke,” Takeji said. “Did you ever think about joining the military? I did a short stint when I was young. It taught me a great deal about life, and I was able to serve my country without ever going into combat.”
“I am certain that the military would be a fine career, Sir.” Sousuke said. He noticed a look of relief in Shunya’s eyes. “I am still undecided on my future.”
We could use fine young men like you to protect us,” Makiko said. “Especially after the terrible fighting that took place in the city. Imagine, something like that happening in Japan.”
Kaname dropped her plate. Her eyes widened, when Sousuke quickly caught it on his foot and kept it balanced long enough for her to grab hold again.
“Well, it’s not the first time,” Hideki said. “Who could forget that great red machine, and what it did to the port area?”
Sousuke looked at Kaname, and then at her plate. Kaname swallowed hard, too distracted to get upset at Sousuke’s wondering whether she was able to hold onto her plate.
“Airplanes kidnapped. Boats sea jacked. And the nerve gas attack. What was their name?” Makiko looked to her husband. He looked like he was trying to think of an answer.
“Aum Shinrikyo, a religious sect, preceded by ‘Aum Divine Wizard Association’. The group revered Shiva as their chief god, and had an ultimate aim to 'save all living things from transmigration.' The group is often referred to as a new Buddhist sect, but it also claims to be an original religion based on Hinduism.” Sousuke spoke automatically. He turned to Shunya and gave him an apologetic look, but Kaname’s father merely gave him a small hand motion.
“Thank you, Sousuke.” Mineko smiled. “So clever. You must read a great deal. I’m surprised that you weren’t top student in your class. I wish I had more students like you. My days teaching would have been much more pleasant.”
Kaname flinched, hearing that. She knew what Ms. Kagurazaka would say in her place. Still too numb from the offhand mention of terrorist attacks that had scarred her life, she didn’t notice that her plate was tipped in her direction. Biting her lips, she was glad that she hadn’t been present at the nerve gas attack that took place in 1995. That would have given her the entire set…
“Ka…na… may-y-y-y-y-y…” Ayame pointed at her sister’s plate.
Kaname looked down. She had spilled food on herself again.
“It is a good thing that you have so many pretty dresses,” Sousuke said.
“The boy must have a death wish,” Shunya muttered under his breath.
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After a rather disastrous start to the meal, things settled in nicely.
Sousuke was not a sparkling conversationalist, but he did his best to answer questions politely and as honestly as possible.
As one might suspect, he came across as a confused teenager with a tragic past, a young man with a good heart trying to find his place in the world. Naturally, he was much more than that, but he would make certain no one caught on.
Shunya’s guests found him fascinating, with Hideki seeing some of himself in the boy; Mineko seeing a young man in need of tutelage; Makiko seeing a bereft child in need of mothering; and Takeji seeing someone who cared a great deal about Kaname without ever verbalizing that fact.
Takeji could sympathize with Shunya. But, from his experience with his own daughters, he knew that things would get harder before they got easier.
The meal was wonderful, much to Shunya’s credit. Fine food, nice drink, and conversation on many topics. Indeed, the hectic and almost comical moments at the serving tables almost seemed as if they had never happened.
Kaname, wearing the dress that Sousuke had described as ‘suitable’, found herself relaxed and inapprehensive, much to her surprise. She had had weathered talk about New York City and her moving to America, fighting off depression with her natural ebullience. When asked about her future, and specifically about her idea of career choices, she had answered much more successfully than Sousuke. With a self-satisfied grin, she had smiled at him across the table, letting him know that that was how one did it.
For her, the most difficult part had been answering questions about her time at Jindai High School. When asked about her most memorable moments, she had to step lively. There was no way that she would describe her various adventures and misadventures with Sousuke, even though they were the first thing that came to mind.
Ayame, of course, didn’t have as much to talk about as her older sister did. But, she didn’t care about that. She was much more interested in bringing up old stories, than she was with answering questions about school or life in America. Diligently, she brought up every funny and embarrassing childhood story that her father had told her about Kaname. She was ecstatic when her father picked up the ball and ran with it… until he showed his impartiality and began telling tales about her. Worse, Kaname had stories too, and she was less considerate than their father.
“Is there something wrong, Sousuke?” Shunya noticed Sousuke countenance with the shrewd eyes of a father, not a dinner host. There was obviously something on the young man’s mind.
“No Sir, nothing wrong. I noticed that you, Kaname, and Ayame are amazing together.” That was a poignant observation, for someone whose parents were killed before his eyes, long before he could ever develop a special synergy with them. But, it was more. Kaname looked so happy laughing and arguing with her family. Maybe it was best that she was going to the States with them.
“Yes, we are.” Shunya was clever enough to guess what Sousuke must be feeling. “But, family remains just that, whether they are in the same room, or half a world apart. The same goes for friends.” He raised a glass to his dinner guests.
Kaname felt her heart fall down to her feet. He father’s answer had started off giving her hope, making her wonder if her father would consider her staying in Tokyo. But, that last part sounded like a message to Sousuke. Was she reading too much into things?
“Kaname Dear, are you alright?” Mineko looked down at the table. Kaname had the edge of the tablecloth grasped tightly in her hand.
“I… I’m…” Kaname’s throat felt dry. She was saved by the bell. Literally.
The doorbell rang. Excusing herself, Kaname moved quickly to answer the door. Shunya followed suit, wondering who might be arriving unannounced at night.
“Hello?” Kaname cracked the door a small amount. A middle-aged man she did not recognize stood there, illuminated yellow by the bright light above the door.
“Mr. Shunya Chidori?” The man asked.
“I’m Mr. Chidori,” Shunya said, opening the door and motioning Kaname to make her way back to the table. Hoping that the conversation would move on past her, Kaname waited before heading back.
“Sir. I’m Motoyuki Yasui, United Nations University.” The man, dressed in his work clothes, carried a briefcase. He opened it to remove a fax communication. “I’m sorry to disturb you at home, Sir. I had been unable to find you earlier, and then became involved with urgent management issues.”
“We’re in the middle of a dinner with guests,” Shunya stated. “Can this wait until morning?” Shunya wondered just what was on that fax.
“I apologize most sincerely, Sir. I thought that you might like to see the good news, and wanted you to know that the University of Cornell is awaiting final confirmation. They will want an answer promptly.” Mr. Yasui took a deep breath, a faraway look in his eyes. Part of him wished that Shunya would ask him in for what must be a heavenly repast.
“That….” Shunya hadn’t expected word about that at home.
“Those of us at the University were consulted on the proposed Model United Nations educational program, since our institution is more than an international community of scholars. As you are well aware, we serve as a bridge between the United Nations and the international academic community, and work as a think-tank for the United Nations system. We were the ideal people to set this program up. Professors van Ginkel, Thakur, and Suzuki felt that it was a magnificent idea, especially given the number of international scholars at that University.”
Kaname bit her lip as she listened. The mention of Cornell caught her ear, and she wondered what this all meant. Was her father working to make that University a better place, now that his daughter was going to attend? But, they had only known of the acceptance for a short period of time.
She was also ignorant to what a Model United Nations, also known as a "Model UN" or an "MUN", actually represented. If asked, her father could explain that a Model UN is a simulation education activity focusing on civics, communications, globalization and multilateral diplomacy. In Model United Nations, students take on roles as foreign diplomats and participate in a simulated session of an intergovernmental organization. Participants research a country, take on a role as a diplomat, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems. During a simulation they must employ a variety of communications and critical thinking skills to defend and advance the policies of their country.
The MUN simulation aims at being academically rigorous. It requires research that includes current affairs, economics, geography, government, history and politics. Students must do in-depth research, write foreign policy principles and position papers, and learn parliamentary procedure. They must formulate prepared presentations as well as give extemporaneous speeches. They must grasp foreign policy and culture norms. They must do technical writing as they craft properly formatted United Nations resolutions. Students practice listening, decision making, and strategic thinking skills as well.
“I appreciate your steadfast service, Mr.Yasui. I am gratified that you and the people you work with saw merit in the proposed program. If I may, I would be glad to discuss things with you further at your convenience. However, with guests here now…” Shunya gave the man a pointed look.
“Yes. I understand completely. Before I go, I must say that we are all quite aware of the work you do in the United Nations. Our Environment and Sustainable Development Program is presenting a lecture series next week, ‘Conserving Cultural and Biological Diversity: The Role of Sacred Natural Sites and Cultural Landscapes.’ We would be honored if you could attend.” Mr. Yasui took another deep breath. He kept his well-practiced smile, despite thinking about the left-overs his wife would have waiting at home for him.
After the man had finally left, Shunya returned to the dinner table, finding Kaname already seated amongst his guests. No one at the table asked whom the visitor was, and Shunya saw no reason to broach the subject. Soon, for everyone but Kaname, dinner picked up right where it had left off. She sat pensively at first, her mind a jumble of thoughts, some advocating trust and patience, while others clamored over possible subterfuge and secret treaties. She shook it off. That kind of thinking came from being around a certain young soldier too much.
Sousuke looked over at Kaname, a look of concern on his face. He nodded his head when Kaname put on a fake smile and shrugged. That had him feeling better. Until Ayame spoke again.
“It’s not fair, though” Ayame said, in answer to a question about American schools. “Daddy won’t let me have a boyfriend. But Kaname has Sousuke.” The sparkle in her eye was clear proof that she knew exactly what kind of fire storm her remark might start. Even so, things took a direction she never would have expected.
“But… I… he’s not really…” Kaname came close to spitting water all over the table.
“Uhhh… that label might not be accurate…” Sousuke had frozen, a large shrimp clinging precariously to the tines of his fork.
“Ayame Chidori ,” Shunya said, “I will ask you not to start trouble at the dinner table.” Shunya have his younger daughter a looked loaded with the promise of time spent in her room, dishes to be cleaned for weeks on end, and a lack of hoped for privileges.
When the introductions were being made, Sousuke had been presented as a high school friend of Kaname, not as her boyfriend. Shunya had invited him to dinner, wanting to see just how he might react in pleasant company, somewhat concerned with some things he had been told when he called school officials after the graduation party. He had also hoped to have a few quiet moments alone with the young operative, while Kaname and Ayame entertained his other guests.
Most of all, he wanted to get an idea of how much Sousuke meant to Kaname. Gratitude for rescues was one thing. So was an emotional bond forged through shared life and death situations. What did he mean to her beyond all that? He was very much on the alert, looking for subtle clues.
Mineko made some comments about young love, thinking back to when she was a young girl in war torn Japan. She showed how sharp her memory was by mentioning a girl that Shunya had a crush on so many years earlier. That had Ayame sitting forward in her chair, taking mental notes.
Hideki also reminisced about his own youth, telling Sousuke that there were stories he would tell him later, when the ladies were off chatting together. That too had Ayame looking eager, until her father gave her an even darker look than before.
Takeji simply sat and smiled, gratified to know that his intuition had been proven correct once again. He was quite certain now that Kaname and Sousuke were more than simple friends.
So was his wife.
“Yes, there are reasons to wait for boyfriends, Ayame.” Makiko looked at Ayame, but her words were meant for Kaname and Shunya. “But, the world is changing, and things aren’t like they once were.”
“Indeed. But…” Shunya closed his mouth. Makiko hadn’t finished.
“At the Tokyo clinic, we have noted some growing trends. The average age for teenagers engaging in sexual activity grow younger and younger. It is no longer unusual to find boys and girls starting out as young as 12 years of age, whereas once upon a time most teens waited until college or even their wedding night to begin their sexual life.” Makiko ignored a look from her husband. This was her area of expertise. And, as a mother with daughters, she felt that all young girls needed certain information. Shunya did not strike her as someone willing or able to teach Ayame and Kaname what they needed to know.
“Twelve?” Mineko looked shocked. She disapproved of the smirk on her husband’s face.
Shunya didn’t say anything. He simply looked at his daughters, feeling a kernel of anxiety in his belly.
“It may be younger in places such as Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, and the like. But there, it is often not by choice, or it is out of necessity due to terrible poverty.” Sousuke answered automatically, adding facts that he knew. The look that Kaname gave him said that certain facts might get him irreparably harmed. Shunya’s glance had him blinking rapidly, his hand going where his pistol usually was.
“Ahhh. Really? And have you visited those places, young man?” Hideki’s question carried with it a number of separate queries, one spoken and one inferred. His wife stepped on his foot as a warning.
“Uhhh….” Sousuke didn’t answer.
“Apart from driving parents crazy, there are numerous health risks involved when girls become sexually active at a young age including, of course, unfit or unwanted pregnancy. More importantly, though, is the risk of being exposed to or contracting a potentially fatal disease or infection. Some of these sexually transmitted diseases and infections are treatable, while others are not.” Makiko looked Shunya firmly in the eyes, letting him know that she was doing his work for him, whether he liked it or not. Seeing what she saw at work, she had become a crusader for young women.
“Yes. Well, I’m certain that most girls will hear all about that in health classes at school,” Shunya said. His look at Kaname said ’you better have taken good notes!’ The look he gave Ayame was ’Wait until class before you start asking too many questions!’
“That is better than listening to one’s peers, who may not know as much as they seem, or who might purposefully try to influence one’s activities.” Sousuke had reason to say that. More because of Kurz and Melissa than anything the boys at school had told him.
“Very good, Sousuke.” Makiko gave Sousuke a large smile. That was in contrast to looks from Kaname and her father that said ‘Be quiet! Don’t get that woman talking more than need be!’ “The only way this growing epidemic can be stemmed is to educate parents, teens, schools and community centers about teen sexuality and the risks involved. Our efforts to prevent pregnancy in very young girls, who themselves are still children, can only be successful if the correct guidance is offered to our teens at home, at school and elsewhere.”
“My wife is very dedicated in her work,” Takeji said to Shunya as a disguised apology.
“There are many ways to be a teacher,” Mineko put in, approving of the other woman’s zeal, but disturbed by her use of the dinner table as her pulpit. “But, there is a proper place and time for everything.”
“Do you and Kaname know the proper place and time?” Ayame couldn’t help herself. Kaname had brought up too many embarrassing stories of her earlier in the meal.
“Sousuke began choking. He had swallowed something the wrong way.
Kaname stopped just short of yelling at her sister.
“Ayame. I think it best that you take your plate into the kitchen, and then remove yourself to your room.” Shunya’s voice brooked no disobedience or argument.
“If you like, I will speak with Ayame later on,” Makiko said. “Young girls may be shy about approaching their parents with questions about sex, even thought their elders are wiser and know more about sex than their friends do, and they have their best interest at heart.” She looked at Ayame. “If you don‘t want to talk to me, you might try the following. Write your father a note with any questions you may have. Practice asking whatever questions you have before approaching him. And, you might want to ask him for some private time, when the two of you are the only ones in the house.” She looked at Shunya again. “Your father might not start such a conversation, but I’m certain that he would respond.” She was being factual. But, she wouldn’t mind sending the girls’ father on a guilt trip. For her, the ends justified the means.
After Ayame left for her banishment, Makiko allowed her husband and others to steer the conversation. But, despite that, Shunya maintained a somewhat rigid pose, sparing Kaname a glance ever so often. She blushed or bit her lip each time she caught him doing so.
“It’s a very different world,” Takeji said at one point, when the couples had been discussing their courtships and marriages. "Teenage prostitution. Girls selling their panties to old men. My granddaughters tell me things about their schools that make me shiver. I used to think we were better off than the western world; but, know I wonder if the opposite might be true.“
Shunya looked uneasy again. Things were moving back in a direction he hoped they would have finished with that evening. But, looking at Kaname, he wondered if his decisions about her and America might not indeed be proper.
“That’s because the television and newspapers keep reporting repeatedly reported such extreme cases as if they are common practice among high school girls, convincing them that it is unfashionable to be careful about sex," Makiko said. "Men should shoulder more of the blame for the situation, since they have promoted a sex culture based on their desires while ignoring the delicate nature of female bodies. It is mostly men in the media who have exaggerating the sex lives of teenage girls to boost sales or raise viewer ratings.”
“It is not all exaggeration,” Sousuke said, ignoring a plea from Kaname. “There was a girl at school who had taken a liking to me.” He almost went on to say that he had blown up the love note that she had sent him, but managed not to. “Kaname and I went undercover at the Student Council President’s request and found her at the C&J, a new local club where Jindai High School girls seem to be going to for a part time job. It was a brothel.”
Kaname sank down in her chair. She couldn’t bring herself to look in her father’s direction. It didn’t matter that she had done a good thing. It didn’t matter that she didn’t do anything overly indecent. All that would matter was that she had walked into a brothel. That, and the fact that she had done so with Sousuke.
“Ahem!” Shunya came close to knocking his water glass over.
“Don’t be angry if the two of them helped expose a bad situation,” Makiko requested. “Too many people turn a blind eye to things like that, until it’s too late. Be glad that Kaname and Sousuke have a strong moral perspective. It’s wonderful to see teenagers who respect women and their bodies.”
“I respected women and their bodies as a teenager,” Hideki put in, looking to draw a chuckle from Takeji, and maybe even Shunya. All he got was a long stare from his wife.
"It’s nothing to joke about,“ Makiko insisted. “The gynecologists I work with are constantly shocked by the number of young girls who have crazy sex lives without any concerns about their health. Many girls who visit our clinic have become pregnant after casual sex with complete strangers. Sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, chlamydia, and Human Papilloma Virus present a risk to the uninformed.”
“Affirmative. That is one of the reasons why I refused to accompany a friend of mine to Sydney in order to visit with prostitutes.” Sousuke nodded his head, Kurz’ half-joked offer fresh in his mind. “Uhhh… not that I ever would…uhhh… even if things weren‘t… uhhh….””
That time Kaname did spit out the water in her mouth. Naturally, Sousuke’s comment had caught her off guard. She had no doubt who had made that offer to Sousuke. It had her thinking. Was Sousuke less innocent than he made out to be? If not, just what kind of encounters had he been through with women? No. Wait. What business was it of hers? Why should she care why that big jerk might have done?
Hideki winked at Sousuke. Takeji grinned, enjoying the spectacle of the situation, assuming by Sousuke’s reaction that the young man was by no means worldly. Minkeo’s mouth hung open.
“This is a very wise young man,” Makiko said, beaming at Sousuke. “The kind that any father would be lucky to have as his daughter’s boyfriend.”
The look that Shunya gave Sousuke suggested otherwise.
“Yes dear,” Takeji smoothly put in, with a nod to Shunja. “But these days, fewer and fewer girls get involved in serious intimate relationships. Even amongst married couple, there is a decline in sexual behavior.” The sharp tone in his voice indicated that he was slyly complaining about such a decline in his own relationship. “Marriages, births, and hanky-panky are all spiraling downward.”
“Yes, and that has troubling implications for the nation's future. A sagging birthrate means that fewer working-age people will be around to support a growing population of elderly.” That was a subject Mineko had thought about on numerous occasions. “If the experts are correct, there is a social crisis looming.”
“Only in Japan would a popular weekly newsmagazine deem it necessary to exhort the nation's youth to abstain from sexual abstinence. ‘Young people, don't hate sex,’ a magazine pleaded last month, in a report detailing a precarious drop in sales of condoms and in business at Japan's rent-by-the-hour love hotels’.”
“Love hotels?” Sousuke had not heard that term before.
“S-O-U-S-U-K-E S-A-G-A-R-A!!!” Kaname couldn’t help herself. That shout just burst out of her.
“Thank you, Kaname.” Shunya was not displeased by his daughters lack of manners.
“More and more Japanese men and women are finding relationships too messy, tiring and potentially humiliating to bother with anymore,” Mineko said, remembering things that she had read. "They don't want a complicated life.”
“Yes, and in many young couples…” Takeji paused, letting his wife know that he was less concerned with the national trends with thirty-something couples than he was with his own fourty-something partner. “…To an astonishing degree, men and women go their separate ways. The women go to designer boutiques and chic restaurants with their girlfriends or moms, and the men go to karaoke clubs with their colleagues from work, or seek the solitude of their computer screens to romance hassle-free virtual women.”
“Virtual women?” Sousuke cocked his head.
“Cybersex,” Takeji answered. That did not make Sousuke any less confused.
“That might be better for some men,” Shunya said. Sousuke aught his eyes and began to sweat.
“It’s not good for the nation,” Takaeji insisted, too entangled in his own thoughts to catch his old friend’s meaning. “As many as a million young men… mostly teenagers, more and more old men as well… suffer from what is known here as hikikomori. They seclude themselves in their rooms for weeks at a time, for various reasons. Some are afraid of women….”
“They’re smart,” Kaname muttered under her breath, looking over at Sousuke.
“Others have had traumatic experiences….” Takeji continued.
“Tell me about it,” Kaname grumped quietly, her eyes meeting Sousuke’s.
“Some have been bullied at school or work.” Takeji raised one eyebrow, actually catching the interplay between Kaname and Sousuke. The later looked even more perplexed than before.
“I think that a lot of it comes down to the fact that younger people these days find reason to enjoy the single life.” Mineko once again thought back to her own younger days. She sighed. “Many young Japanese women live carefree lives, staying at home with their parents, paying little if any rent, letting their mothers cook their meals, clean their rooms and do their laundry. Many work dead-end jobs that don't pay much but don't cause much stress and give them enough spending money to buy designer handbags, shoes, clothes and jewelry, and have enough time to take overseas holidays with their girlfriends.”
Kaname turned her nose up at Sousuke, and then looked over at her father. Shunya looked away.
“Good for them,“ Makiko said. “There certainly are shortcomings associated with love and marriage Japanese-style. The husband works long hours and carouses into the night with his pals from work. The wife is expected to stay home, clean house and take care of kids. If the children behave badly, she's a bad mother. If her husband has an affair, she's a bad wife.” The tone in her voice made it no secret that she had suspicions about her spouse.
“Yes, some Japanese men propose to women with lines like ‘I want you to cook miso soup for me the rest of my life’.” Mineko shook her head.
“Well, I meant that!” Hideki said.
“ Japan's increasingly educated and well-traveled young women are not impressed with that kind of thing,” Makiko asserted. Men seem bewildered by the rising assertiveness of Japanese women. I think that men are getting weaker.“ That not so subtle dig had Takeji frowning. "Women don't have to rely on men anymore. They can live on their own."
Sousuke’s head was spinning. He tried to keep up with everything, but was lagging too far behind. All he knew was that relationships between men and women were far more complex than he could have ever imagined. It was simpler to read through a text on Arbalest maintenance, or piece together intelligence data for a complicated mission.
“Boys are jerks,” Kaname said.
“Yes they are,” Shunya asserted. He looked embarrassed when he realized exactly what he had agreed to. He shrugged apologetically when Hideki and Takeji looked at him with frowns.
“Not Sousuke! He’s pretty great!” That was Ayame. She was standing by her open door, listening. On the nearby table, the plate that Sousuke had set aside for her was empty of treats.
“Ayame …” Shunya sounded stern.
“Hmmmpppfff!” Kaname tossed her hair.
“I take it you’re not going to America with Kaname,” Takeji asked Sousuke. He was pretty certain he knew the answer, but realized that the precise issue had never been addressed.
“Why should he?” Shunya put in quickly.
“Well… if the two are close… that’s a long distance to be apart.” Takeji replied.
“It would be hard to maintain any romantic relationship over that distance,” Makiko said, agreeing with her husband. “If there was one,” she added for Kaname’s benefit.
“At least the pain might be slower in coming that way,” Hideki put in. “It hurts a lot more to be rejected outright.”
“That’s true,” Mineko said. “Nobody enjoys rejection. It’s especially awful when adults act like you’re supposed to instantly bounce back.” She stared at Shunya for a long moment. “Some parents act as if it were no big deal, almost as if they are saying ‘What? You mean you can’t just grow a new heart or something? What’s the matter with you?!’”
Kaname clasped her hands under the table. Her traditional game of being angry at Sousuke suddenly wasn’t fun any more. The truth of her upcoming future caught up with again. No, it had never been all that far from her thoughts, but now it was hard to ignore the facts.
“That’s right. That kind of attitude certainly doesn’t help teenagers, especially when it’s their first true heartbreak. They have no previous experiences to fall back on.” Having gotten a fair understanding of what was going on, Makiko gave Sousuke a sympathetic look. “But, believe it or not, though, life will go on. Even when your feelings are telling you otherwise.”
Sousuke looked down at his plate. He didn’t care if anyone there realized his relationship with Kaname. His feelings were what mattered to him. The woman’s statement had hit him like a full broadside from a nineteenth century ship of the main.
The conversation continued after that, touching on a number of different and unrelated subjects.
Neither Sousuke nor Kaname would remember a word of it the next day.
Kaname held up a nice summer dress. The colors did not match with the nice suit that Sousuke wore. She was well aware of the fact.
“Uhhh… it is not unpleasant… I think it is very… ahhh… colorful.” Sousuke felt a bit uncomfortable, standing in Kaname’s bedroom while Shunya and Ayame drove out to pick up an elderly couple that would be dining with them that evening. The other guests were close enough to walk or take a cab.
“Colorful. Great. That‘s what you said about the wrappings on those new MREs you bought.” She threw it over her shoulder. Not by accident, it would have covered Sousuke’s head had he not snagged it deftly from the air. “How about this one?” She took a hanger out of the closet. The dress it bore was sedate but nicely cut.
“Hmmm… that one appears suitable.” Sousuke fidgeted. He had been very nervous when Kaname invited him into her room. Now, he was wondering if she intended to get dressed in front of him.
“Suitable?” Kaname snorted. “Suitable. Is that all you have to say? Suitable?” That dress flew in a much higher arc, almost hitting the ceiling. Kaname slid a number of plastic wrapped dresses along the closet pole. “Oh. I haven’t worn this one for a while. What do you think?”
“That one is nice, Kaname. I think it would look good on you.” Sousuke knew that Kaname would throw that dress too. Whatever he liked, she would discard. Whatever he didn’t gush over, she would throw his way. Most likely, she would wear the last dress left in the closet.
“Geeez, Sousuke? Nice? That’s almost as bad as ‘suitable’. Nice!” Kaname held the dress against her and looked in the mirror. It really did look very nice. She had a strong urge to wear it. But, she shook her head. For some reason, it just wouldn’t do. She placed it back in the closet.
Sousuke relaxed his stance a bit. He placed both hands behind his back. But, he kept a wary eye on the closet. He was a Specialist. And, it never paid to assume anything with Kaname.
“Oh, might as well be consistent.” Kaname grabbed the dress again and lofted it high above her head, hangar and all. Her aim was errant. It caught on the ceiling fan and flopped this way and that. “Sousuke! Why didn’t you catch that?”
Sousuke sighed. He enjoyed spending time with Kaname, especially since he had not seen her since the party. But, this game was getting old. A rush of guilt had him standing straighter. If he only had so much time left with Kaname, shouldn’t he enjoy every minute? Was he growing tired of her?
“Alright, mister. Prepare to be dazzled. Kaname Chidori, super model.” Kaname held up one of her favorite dresses, one she had never found the right occasion for. “Pretty remarkable, right?”
Sousuke remained silent. He looked at his watch. How long before Kaname made some kind of huffy remark, or a plea for attention? Tick tick tick tick tick…
“Sousuke?” Kaname scowled.
The young soldier remained quiet. Tick tick tick tick…
“The dress, Sousuke. What do you think? You are capable of thinking, aren’t you?” She put one hand on her hip.
“Eight seconds,” Sousuke said out loud. That was for the huffy part. Tick tick tick tick…
“Huh? What kind of nonsense are you babbling?” Kaname frowned and then twitched. “Don’t you want to help me look my best for dinner tonight?”
“Twelve seconds,” Sousuke noted. That took care of the plea for attention.
“Fine. If you don’t want me to find the clothes that make me look beautiful for you, why don’t you just wait out on the street or something. Maybe you can find something suitable to blow up. Or something colorful to shoot.” Kaname turned her back on Sousuke. She started counting in her head.
“You would be beautiful without those dresses, Kaname.” Sousuke knew what Kaname wanted from him. He was also telling the truth.
“What? Without a dress? Are you saying that you would think I would be beautiful walking around without any clothes on?” Kaname knew exactly what Sousuke meant. But, this was her turn. He should have known better. Kaname Chidori is a Specialist in her own right.
“Uhhh… that is not…” Sousuke swallowed hard. Intellectually, he might be able to tell that Kaname was just playing. But, his usual propriety and naivity kicked in first.
“If my father were standing there and heard you say that!” Kaname tried hard not to smile. “Sheeesh. You better get that stuff out of your system before dinner!“ She could tell what Sousuke was thinking. He was imagining some kind of catastrophic and embarrassing scene.
“I… but…” Sousuke finally brought himself under control. No doubt, Kaname thought that she had triumphed. It had been close. Very close. But, he had stopped his step just short of the precipice. “It is not a problem. If your father were present, I would simply inform him that I was speaking the truth, after having seen you naked at the hot springs.” He had never told Kaname that he had been the one who prevented the others from successfully peeping.
“WHAT!”
Kaname dropped the dress she had been holding.
“Though, to be truthful, that was at night with vision equipment. The time with the clothes eating bacteria… incorrectly nicknamed the Full Monty Virus… your nakedness was much closer, and with better lighting.” Susuke walked over to the window, acting nonchalant. It was fun to tease Kaname. Too bad he had not discovered that earlier.
“You… you… you…” Kaname should have known that Sousuke was joking. But, it didn’t matter. If he was telling the truth, he was dead. If he had trumped her, he didn’t deserve to live.
“You are a very attractive woman naked, Kaname.” Sousuke set up for the coup de grace. Still, he found his hand trembling ever so slightly. It was hard for him to be so cavalier on that subject.
“I… you… ummm…… really?” Kaname was obviously being pulled in different directions. The woman in her was glad that Sousuke appreciated her body. The girl I her was glad for attention from a boy she cared about.
“Affirmative. No doubt, you would bring a high price on the Black Market.” Sousuke kept a straight face. “Especially in areas devastated by the recent tsunamis, or countries suffering periods of prolonged economic shortages. The competition in those areas would primarily consist of young girls.”
“I… see…” Kaname refrained from her usually loud and derogatory commentary. Taking a few deep breaths, she came up with the perfect plan. So, Sousuke wanted to act like some kind of man of the world, did he? Fine. “Well then, since you are such a good judge of a woman’s body, here’s something you could help me with.” She walked over to her dresser and opened the top drawer.
“Uhhh…” Sousuke began to sweat again. Heavily. Kaname had picked up a lacy bra. Soon, she was comparing it to another brassiere.
“Which of these do you think might look better?” Kaname asked. She felt a devilish sense of power at that moment. “Here, let me slip one on over my blouse. Tell me how you like it.” This ought to be good! Smiling, Kaname slipped her frilliest bra on.
There was a knock at the door. “Kaname? Are you ready yet?” It was Shunya. He had gotten back sooner than Kaname had expected. Furthermore, she and Sousuke had been so distracted by their playful battle of wits, that note even the trained operative had heard them come into the apartment.
“Do you want me to open the door, Kaname?” Sousuke spoke quietly, with much more bravado than he really felt.
“Kaname? When do expect Sousuke? I want to ask him to keep his profession a secret tonight. If you see him before I do, will you do that for me?”
“Y-Yes… Sure, Daddy…” Kaname froze. She watched as Sousuke took a step back, stopped by the wall behind him.
After Shunya’s footsteps receded, Kaname put her hand over her heart. Looking over at Sousuke, she nodded her head. “OK, Sousuke. Out the window.”
“Kaname?”
“You have to come in through the front door, or Daddy will know you were in here.” Kaname sounded like she was explaining things to an idiot or three year old.
“But… is that truly a problem? I am certain that he must know that you are a responsible young woman.” Sousuke normally would have been more on edge over that topic. But, looking out the window, he found the subject less vexing.
“Hmmm. Maybe you’re right.” Kaname tossed her hair. She began to slide her blouse up in slow increments. “Do you mind waiting here while I get dressed?”
There was a sound of a sliding window. The street noise got louder, as a nice breeze came in through the opening.
When Kaname turned around, Sousuke was gone.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
“It’s from Fujimamas”
Shunya was speaking with Takeji Akashiya, accountant and childhood friend. His wife Makiko, a councillor at a health clinic, chatted with Kaname as she filled her plate from a catered buffet.
“Oh. This is quite the treat, then.” Mineko Tetsuya, one of Shunya’s high school teachers, made her way slowly towards the rented tables set up in the living room area.
“Yes. Almost as nice as being helped by a pretty young lady.” Mineko’s husband Hideki, a retired chemist, shuffled along with help from Kaname.
“Did you get any chicken nuggets, Daddy?” Ayame pouted. The nice spread of Asian, Austrailain, Mediterranean, African, and Indian foods did not contain any pizza, fried chicken, tacos, or French fries. “Cheeseburgers?”
“Hmmm. Let me see. We have Smoked Salmon Rolled in Crepes with Green Onions and Sour Cream… Chicken and Wild Mushroom Roulades with Curry Mayonnaise… Chinese Dim Sum…” He walked along the cloth draped tables, pointed to metal bins heated by small flames. “…Vietnamese Vegetable Salad Rolls with Miso Sesame Sauce… Eggplant Sundried Tomatoes and Shiso Crostini…”
“I believe this must be their Tuna with Cucumbers, Maui Onions, Tomatoes and Soy Sauce Vinaigrette, and that must be the Seared Ahi with Shiso, Kaiware and Soy Mustard Cream.” Makiko was a big fan of Fujimamas.
“Oooh. That’s the Tandoori Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce…” Takeji recognized his wife’s favorite. Looking for his own, he found it. “Shunya, thank you. Teppanyaki Cod with Teriyaki Sauce.”
“Think nothing of it, old friend.” Shunya smiled. He hadn’t seen his friends for a number of years.
“Great!” Ayame turned her nose up sarcastically. “I guess I’ll just make a plate with Cookies, Chocolate Eclairs, and these fruit tart things.” She reached for the dessert tray.
“Ayame. You will mind your manners, especially in front of company.” Shunya looked at his youngest daughter. His face was stern. “This dinner is in honor of your sister’s graduation. If you wish to act childish, you may do so in your room.”
“I believe that your father is correct, Ayame.” Sousuke picked up a plate. “Sometimes one must make sacrifices for the benefit of others. I have eaten many foods over the years that might not suit my taste. One does what one must.”
“That’s a very responsible attitude, young man. I wish more young people these days would think about someone other than themselves.” Hideki piled more food on his plate than he could comfortably carry.
“Yes, too many children are caught up in violence and irrational behavior. It’s nice to meet such a quiet and well-grounded young man.” Mineko dropped one of the serving spoons. “Oh my.”
Kaname had started coughing. Sousuke, nonviolent? Rational? Well-grounded? She walked over and retrieved the spoon.
Shunya gave Sousuke a contemplative look, wondering if the young man actually meant what he said, or was pandering to the crowd.
Ayame’s look was rather petulant.
“However, acting on behalf of others often brings its own rewards.” Sousuke put an éclair on his plate. That was followed by a number of different cookies and a fruit tart. “Life comes with no guarantees. It is best to honor those you care about each day, as you do not know how long you or they might have.” Sousuke looked briefly at Kaname, and then back at the plate he was carrying. “One should also enjoy what they can, when they can.” He gave the desserts to Ayame.
“For me?” Ayame’s eyes went wide. She looked over at her father, and then at Sousuke. “Thank you. But Daddy said no.” She put the plate down, her finger lingering on one of the cookies.
“That is admirable control,” Sousuke said amiably. “I wish that your sister was so adept.” Sousuke swallowed hard. He had been honest. It would have been better if he had been quiet. “I… what I meant…”
The sound of a spoon bouncing off of a table could be heard. Kaname looked pale, but soon turned red. The spoon, full of Peanut Wontons, had left a trail of food down the trembling girl’s dress.
Ayames’ smile widened.
Shunja closed his eyes for a moment, and then opened them. Sousuke was quite a conundrum. At first he had been furious, when the boy seemed to override his parental order to Ayame. But, he might have been giving his daughter a chance to improve her appearance before the guests, given his words. Then, with his own reputation in the ascendancy, he made that remark about Kaname.
“I’ll go get changed,” Kaname said, trying to smile. Walking past Sousuke, she stopped. It would have been wiser to keep walking. “This time, I should make you jump off the roof while I get dressed.” She had tried to make it so only Sousuke could hear her. She failed.
Another spoon made its way to the floor. Shunya looked at his empty hand, and then at Kaname. Ayame rubbed her hands together.
“It’s so difficult raising girls,” Makiko said. She had five daughters.
“Yes,” Shunya said, staring at Sousuke.
Kaname had her new dress on in no time. After tossing her soiled clothing in the washing machine, she joined the others at the buffet tables. Looking at Sousuke, she scowled. Catching a glimpse of her father’s face, she felt a chill run through her.
“So, young man, aren’t you going to serve yourself some food? This is truly fine cooking.” Takeji looked over at Sousuke.
“You said that you had eaten many foods over the years that might not suit my taste. Are you like so many boys today, a fan of noodles and little else?” Makiko placed a spoon of Lemongrass-flavored Thai Seafood Salad on her neatly arranged plate.
“No Mam,” Sousuke answered. “I was referring to situations where I was forced to live off the land.” He didn’t hear Shunya’s ‘Ahem,’ which sounded more like a cough than a word. “One can, with relatively few exceptions, eat anything that crawls, swims, walks, or flies. The first obstacle is overcoming your natural aversion to a particular food source.” He went ahead with his instruction, despite the noises that Kaname mad. “Historically, people in starvation situations have resorted to eating everything imaginable for nourishment.”
“Well that’s really fascinating,” Kaname said quickly. “But I’m certain that no one wants to hear that kind of stuff.” Her voice made it plain that the topic was out of bounds. “Hmmmpppfff!”
“One shouldn’t rush to conclusions, Kaname. That’s another failing of young people today.” Mineko took a few spoonfuls of food off of her husband’s plate. When she turned to face Sousuke, her husband put the food back on. “When I was a teacher, the children were eager to learn new things. Even Shunya.” She smiled at her former pupil. “You were saying?” That last was directed to Sousuke.
“Insects are the most abundant life form on earth, and they are insects are easily caught. They provide sixty-five to eighty percent protein compared to twenty percent for beef. This fact makes insects an important, if not overly appetizing, source…”
“Sousuke…” Kazname tried to get Sousuke’s attention. He was too deep into his spiel.
“Insects to avoid include all adults that sting or bite…hairy or brightly colored insects… and caterpillars and insects that have a pungent odor. I would also recommend that one avoid spiders and common disease carriers such as ticks, flies, and mosquitoes…” Sousuke stood with one hand behind his back, like he was lecturing a new recruit on the basics of Arm Slave maintenance. “Amphibians…”
“Sous-kay…” Kaname gripped her plate so tightly that her fingers hurt.
“Frogs and salamanders are easily found around bodies of fresh water. Frogs seldom move from the safety of the water's edge. At the first sign of danger, they plunge into the water and bury themselves in the mud and debris….” As Sousuke spoke, he didn’t notice the dark look on Kaname’s face, the disbelief in Shunya’s eyes, or the grin Ayame had at seeing her sister’s reaction. “There are few poisonous species of frogs. Avoid any brightly colored frog or one that has distinct "X" mark on it's back. Do not confuse toads with frogs. You normally find toads in drier environments. Several species of toads secrete a poisonous substance through their skin as a defense against attack. Therefore…”
“SOUSUKE!!!”
Kaname’s shout set a number of things in motion. The loud noise caused Takeji to spasm. A prawn flew through the air, bouncing off of Shunya’s newly polished shoe before rolling to a stop by the front door. Worse, as she vented her anger, Kaname had shaken the spoon in Sousuke’s general direction. A blob of mustard saudce clung to Ayames’ nose, while the spring roll it had been covering bounced onto Makiko’s plate.
“Oh, Mrs. Tetsuya, I am so-o-o-o sorry,” Kaname said, mortified.
“Do not forget your sister,” Sousuke said. That earned him a smile from Ayame, who was otherwise fit to be tied.
“You…… had…… better…… worry…… about…… yourself…” Kaname said to Sousuke through her teeth.
“It’s alright, Shunya.” Mineko said. “Children will be children. I remember what you were like in high school.” No doubt, the evening wouldn’t end without some of those stories being told. “You shouldn’t be too concerned if your daughter is a little high strung. She may grow out of it. Some girls are like that, especially when they are faced with big changes in their lives.”
Shunya mumbled his agreement. Ayame ran to get changed. She hurried, because she didn’t want to miss a thing. The look Kaname gave Sousuke promised retribution.
“So, you were saying?” Hideki asked Sousuke.
“It might be best….” Shunya tried to redirect the conversation.
“Nonsense Shunya.” Mineko said. “Earlier, you were trying to get the boy to open up and talk. There’s no harm in sharing what he knows.”
“I do not wish to cause any trouble,” Sousuke said. He began to wonder if any of the ruckus was his fault. But, how could it be? He had only been telling what he knew about survival foods.
“Please. Go ahead,” Mineko said.
“Sir?” Sousuke looked over at Shunya. He watched as Kaname gave her father a pleading look. Ayame was nodding her head.
“Fine.” Shunya looked over at Kaname. His meaning was clear. Kaname smiled a crooked smile at Sousuke. Her meaning was clear too. Retribution was only the beginning…
“Yes. Well. Where was I?” Sousuke thought a moment. “Worms are an excellent protein source. Dig for them in damp humus soil or watch for them on the ground after a rain….”
Kaname took a step towards Sousuke, her plate tipping precariously. She stopped when her father held his hand up.
“After capturing them, drop them into clean, potable water for a few minutes. The worms will naturally purge or wash themselves out, after which you can …” Sousuke was unable to finish. There was a loud crashing noise. Hideki had dropped his plate.
“SOUSUKE, YOU BIG IDIOT!”
By habit, Kaname shouted. Catching herself, she continued only slightly less quietly. “Look what you did!”
“My goodness. She is certainly a loud child. Even louder than you were, Shunya.” Mineko turned her hearing aid down in volume in the ear nearest to Kaname. “But, maybe that’s how girls get boys to take notice of them these days.”
Kaname stared incredulously. She was too stunned by the whole situation to help clean up the large mess.
“It’s certainly not Sousuke’s fault,” Hideki said. “Blame these arthritic hands of mine. I put way too much food on my plate.” He nodded when his wife gave him a ‘I told you so’ look. “If anything, the topic made me nostalgic. We were taught something like that back when I was in the military.”
Kaname stamped her foot. It was indeed Souske’s fault. Were her father’s friends too senile to see that. She blushed when all of the adults looked at her, disapproving her fit of pique.
“You’re a strong and healthy looking young man, Sousuke,” Takeji said. “Did you ever think about joining the military? I did a short stint when I was young. It taught me a great deal about life, and I was able to serve my country without ever going into combat.”
“I am certain that the military would be a fine career, Sir.” Sousuke said. He noticed a look of relief in Shunya’s eyes. “I am still undecided on my future.”
We could use fine young men like you to protect us,” Makiko said. “Especially after the terrible fighting that took place in the city. Imagine, something like that happening in Japan.”
Kaname dropped her plate. Her eyes widened, when Sousuke quickly caught it on his foot and kept it balanced long enough for her to grab hold again.
“Well, it’s not the first time,” Hideki said. “Who could forget that great red machine, and what it did to the port area?”
Sousuke looked at Kaname, and then at her plate. Kaname swallowed hard, too distracted to get upset at Sousuke’s wondering whether she was able to hold onto her plate.
“Airplanes kidnapped. Boats sea jacked. And the nerve gas attack. What was their name?” Makiko looked to her husband. He looked like he was trying to think of an answer.
“Aum Shinrikyo, a religious sect, preceded by ‘Aum Divine Wizard Association’. The group revered Shiva as their chief god, and had an ultimate aim to 'save all living things from transmigration.' The group is often referred to as a new Buddhist sect, but it also claims to be an original religion based on Hinduism.” Sousuke spoke automatically. He turned to Shunya and gave him an apologetic look, but Kaname’s father merely gave him a small hand motion.
“Thank you, Sousuke.” Mineko smiled. “So clever. You must read a great deal. I’m surprised that you weren’t top student in your class. I wish I had more students like you. My days teaching would have been much more pleasant.”
Kaname flinched, hearing that. She knew what Ms. Kagurazaka would say in her place. Still too numb from the offhand mention of terrorist attacks that had scarred her life, she didn’t notice that her plate was tipped in her direction. Biting her lips, she was glad that she hadn’t been present at the nerve gas attack that took place in 1995. That would have given her the entire set…
“Ka…na… may-y-y-y-y-y…” Ayame pointed at her sister’s plate.
Kaname looked down. She had spilled food on herself again.
“It is a good thing that you have so many pretty dresses,” Sousuke said.
“The boy must have a death wish,” Shunya muttered under his breath.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
After a rather disastrous start to the meal, things settled in nicely.
Sousuke was not a sparkling conversationalist, but he did his best to answer questions politely and as honestly as possible.
As one might suspect, he came across as a confused teenager with a tragic past, a young man with a good heart trying to find his place in the world. Naturally, he was much more than that, but he would make certain no one caught on.
Shunya’s guests found him fascinating, with Hideki seeing some of himself in the boy; Mineko seeing a young man in need of tutelage; Makiko seeing a bereft child in need of mothering; and Takeji seeing someone who cared a great deal about Kaname without ever verbalizing that fact.
Takeji could sympathize with Shunya. But, from his experience with his own daughters, he knew that things would get harder before they got easier.
The meal was wonderful, much to Shunya’s credit. Fine food, nice drink, and conversation on many topics. Indeed, the hectic and almost comical moments at the serving tables almost seemed as if they had never happened.
Kaname, wearing the dress that Sousuke had described as ‘suitable’, found herself relaxed and inapprehensive, much to her surprise. She had had weathered talk about New York City and her moving to America, fighting off depression with her natural ebullience. When asked about her future, and specifically about her idea of career choices, she had answered much more successfully than Sousuke. With a self-satisfied grin, she had smiled at him across the table, letting him know that that was how one did it.
For her, the most difficult part had been answering questions about her time at Jindai High School. When asked about her most memorable moments, she had to step lively. There was no way that she would describe her various adventures and misadventures with Sousuke, even though they were the first thing that came to mind.
Ayame, of course, didn’t have as much to talk about as her older sister did. But, she didn’t care about that. She was much more interested in bringing up old stories, than she was with answering questions about school or life in America. Diligently, she brought up every funny and embarrassing childhood story that her father had told her about Kaname. She was ecstatic when her father picked up the ball and ran with it… until he showed his impartiality and began telling tales about her. Worse, Kaname had stories too, and she was less considerate than their father.
“Is there something wrong, Sousuke?” Shunya noticed Sousuke countenance with the shrewd eyes of a father, not a dinner host. There was obviously something on the young man’s mind.
“No Sir, nothing wrong. I noticed that you, Kaname, and Ayame are amazing together.” That was a poignant observation, for someone whose parents were killed before his eyes, long before he could ever develop a special synergy with them. But, it was more. Kaname looked so happy laughing and arguing with her family. Maybe it was best that she was going to the States with them.
“Yes, we are.” Shunya was clever enough to guess what Sousuke must be feeling. “But, family remains just that, whether they are in the same room, or half a world apart. The same goes for friends.” He raised a glass to his dinner guests.
Kaname felt her heart fall down to her feet. He father’s answer had started off giving her hope, making her wonder if her father would consider her staying in Tokyo. But, that last part sounded like a message to Sousuke. Was she reading too much into things?
“Kaname Dear, are you alright?” Mineko looked down at the table. Kaname had the edge of the tablecloth grasped tightly in her hand.
“I… I’m…” Kaname’s throat felt dry. She was saved by the bell. Literally.
The doorbell rang. Excusing herself, Kaname moved quickly to answer the door. Shunya followed suit, wondering who might be arriving unannounced at night.
“Hello?” Kaname cracked the door a small amount. A middle-aged man she did not recognize stood there, illuminated yellow by the bright light above the door.
“Mr. Shunya Chidori?” The man asked.
“I’m Mr. Chidori,” Shunya said, opening the door and motioning Kaname to make her way back to the table. Hoping that the conversation would move on past her, Kaname waited before heading back.
“Sir. I’m Motoyuki Yasui, United Nations University.” The man, dressed in his work clothes, carried a briefcase. He opened it to remove a fax communication. “I’m sorry to disturb you at home, Sir. I had been unable to find you earlier, and then became involved with urgent management issues.”
“We’re in the middle of a dinner with guests,” Shunya stated. “Can this wait until morning?” Shunya wondered just what was on that fax.
“I apologize most sincerely, Sir. I thought that you might like to see the good news, and wanted you to know that the University of Cornell is awaiting final confirmation. They will want an answer promptly.” Mr. Yasui took a deep breath, a faraway look in his eyes. Part of him wished that Shunya would ask him in for what must be a heavenly repast.
“That….” Shunya hadn’t expected word about that at home.
“Those of us at the University were consulted on the proposed Model United Nations educational program, since our institution is more than an international community of scholars. As you are well aware, we serve as a bridge between the United Nations and the international academic community, and work as a think-tank for the United Nations system. We were the ideal people to set this program up. Professors van Ginkel, Thakur, and Suzuki felt that it was a magnificent idea, especially given the number of international scholars at that University.”
Kaname bit her lip as she listened. The mention of Cornell caught her ear, and she wondered what this all meant. Was her father working to make that University a better place, now that his daughter was going to attend? But, they had only known of the acceptance for a short period of time.
She was also ignorant to what a Model United Nations, also known as a "Model UN" or an "MUN", actually represented. If asked, her father could explain that a Model UN is a simulation education activity focusing on civics, communications, globalization and multilateral diplomacy. In Model United Nations, students take on roles as foreign diplomats and participate in a simulated session of an intergovernmental organization. Participants research a country, take on a role as a diplomat, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems. During a simulation they must employ a variety of communications and critical thinking skills to defend and advance the policies of their country.
The MUN simulation aims at being academically rigorous. It requires research that includes current affairs, economics, geography, government, history and politics. Students must do in-depth research, write foreign policy principles and position papers, and learn parliamentary procedure. They must formulate prepared presentations as well as give extemporaneous speeches. They must grasp foreign policy and culture norms. They must do technical writing as they craft properly formatted United Nations resolutions. Students practice listening, decision making, and strategic thinking skills as well.
“I appreciate your steadfast service, Mr.Yasui. I am gratified that you and the people you work with saw merit in the proposed program. If I may, I would be glad to discuss things with you further at your convenience. However, with guests here now…” Shunya gave the man a pointed look.
“Yes. I understand completely. Before I go, I must say that we are all quite aware of the work you do in the United Nations. Our Environment and Sustainable Development Program is presenting a lecture series next week, ‘Conserving Cultural and Biological Diversity: The Role of Sacred Natural Sites and Cultural Landscapes.’ We would be honored if you could attend.” Mr. Yasui took another deep breath. He kept his well-practiced smile, despite thinking about the left-overs his wife would have waiting at home for him.
After the man had finally left, Shunya returned to the dinner table, finding Kaname already seated amongst his guests. No one at the table asked whom the visitor was, and Shunya saw no reason to broach the subject. Soon, for everyone but Kaname, dinner picked up right where it had left off. She sat pensively at first, her mind a jumble of thoughts, some advocating trust and patience, while others clamored over possible subterfuge and secret treaties. She shook it off. That kind of thinking came from being around a certain young soldier too much.
Sousuke looked over at Kaname, a look of concern on his face. He nodded his head when Kaname put on a fake smile and shrugged. That had him feeling better. Until Ayame spoke again.
“It’s not fair, though” Ayame said, in answer to a question about American schools. “Daddy won’t let me have a boyfriend. But Kaname has Sousuke.” The sparkle in her eye was clear proof that she knew exactly what kind of fire storm her remark might start. Even so, things took a direction she never would have expected.
“But… I… he’s not really…” Kaname came close to spitting water all over the table.
“Uhhh… that label might not be accurate…” Sousuke had frozen, a large shrimp clinging precariously to the tines of his fork.
“Ayame Chidori ,” Shunya said, “I will ask you not to start trouble at the dinner table.” Shunya have his younger daughter a looked loaded with the promise of time spent in her room, dishes to be cleaned for weeks on end, and a lack of hoped for privileges.
When the introductions were being made, Sousuke had been presented as a high school friend of Kaname, not as her boyfriend. Shunya had invited him to dinner, wanting to see just how he might react in pleasant company, somewhat concerned with some things he had been told when he called school officials after the graduation party. He had also hoped to have a few quiet moments alone with the young operative, while Kaname and Ayame entertained his other guests.
Most of all, he wanted to get an idea of how much Sousuke meant to Kaname. Gratitude for rescues was one thing. So was an emotional bond forged through shared life and death situations. What did he mean to her beyond all that? He was very much on the alert, looking for subtle clues.
Mineko made some comments about young love, thinking back to when she was a young girl in war torn Japan. She showed how sharp her memory was by mentioning a girl that Shunya had a crush on so many years earlier. That had Ayame sitting forward in her chair, taking mental notes.
Hideki also reminisced about his own youth, telling Sousuke that there were stories he would tell him later, when the ladies were off chatting together. That too had Ayame looking eager, until her father gave her an even darker look than before.
Takeji simply sat and smiled, gratified to know that his intuition had been proven correct once again. He was quite certain now that Kaname and Sousuke were more than simple friends.
So was his wife.
“Yes, there are reasons to wait for boyfriends, Ayame.” Makiko looked at Ayame, but her words were meant for Kaname and Shunya. “But, the world is changing, and things aren’t like they once were.”
“Indeed. But…” Shunya closed his mouth. Makiko hadn’t finished.
“At the Tokyo clinic, we have noted some growing trends. The average age for teenagers engaging in sexual activity grow younger and younger. It is no longer unusual to find boys and girls starting out as young as 12 years of age, whereas once upon a time most teens waited until college or even their wedding night to begin their sexual life.” Makiko ignored a look from her husband. This was her area of expertise. And, as a mother with daughters, she felt that all young girls needed certain information. Shunya did not strike her as someone willing or able to teach Ayame and Kaname what they needed to know.
“Twelve?” Mineko looked shocked. She disapproved of the smirk on her husband’s face.
Shunya didn’t say anything. He simply looked at his daughters, feeling a kernel of anxiety in his belly.
“It may be younger in places such as Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, and the like. But there, it is often not by choice, or it is out of necessity due to terrible poverty.” Sousuke answered automatically, adding facts that he knew. The look that Kaname gave him said that certain facts might get him irreparably harmed. Shunya’s glance had him blinking rapidly, his hand going where his pistol usually was.
“Ahhh. Really? And have you visited those places, young man?” Hideki’s question carried with it a number of separate queries, one spoken and one inferred. His wife stepped on his foot as a warning.
“Uhhh….” Sousuke didn’t answer.
“Apart from driving parents crazy, there are numerous health risks involved when girls become sexually active at a young age including, of course, unfit or unwanted pregnancy. More importantly, though, is the risk of being exposed to or contracting a potentially fatal disease or infection. Some of these sexually transmitted diseases and infections are treatable, while others are not.” Makiko looked Shunya firmly in the eyes, letting him know that she was doing his work for him, whether he liked it or not. Seeing what she saw at work, she had become a crusader for young women.
“Yes. Well, I’m certain that most girls will hear all about that in health classes at school,” Shunya said. His look at Kaname said ’you better have taken good notes!’ The look he gave Ayame was ’Wait until class before you start asking too many questions!’
“That is better than listening to one’s peers, who may not know as much as they seem, or who might purposefully try to influence one’s activities.” Sousuke had reason to say that. More because of Kurz and Melissa than anything the boys at school had told him.
“Very good, Sousuke.” Makiko gave Sousuke a large smile. That was in contrast to looks from Kaname and her father that said ‘Be quiet! Don’t get that woman talking more than need be!’ “The only way this growing epidemic can be stemmed is to educate parents, teens, schools and community centers about teen sexuality and the risks involved. Our efforts to prevent pregnancy in very young girls, who themselves are still children, can only be successful if the correct guidance is offered to our teens at home, at school and elsewhere.”
“My wife is very dedicated in her work,” Takeji said to Shunya as a disguised apology.
“There are many ways to be a teacher,” Mineko put in, approving of the other woman’s zeal, but disturbed by her use of the dinner table as her pulpit. “But, there is a proper place and time for everything.”
“Do you and Kaname know the proper place and time?” Ayame couldn’t help herself. Kaname had brought up too many embarrassing stories of her earlier in the meal.
“Sousuke began choking. He had swallowed something the wrong way.
Kaname stopped just short of yelling at her sister.
“Ayame. I think it best that you take your plate into the kitchen, and then remove yourself to your room.” Shunya’s voice brooked no disobedience or argument.
“If you like, I will speak with Ayame later on,” Makiko said. “Young girls may be shy about approaching their parents with questions about sex, even thought their elders are wiser and know more about sex than their friends do, and they have their best interest at heart.” She looked at Ayame. “If you don‘t want to talk to me, you might try the following. Write your father a note with any questions you may have. Practice asking whatever questions you have before approaching him. And, you might want to ask him for some private time, when the two of you are the only ones in the house.” She looked at Shunya again. “Your father might not start such a conversation, but I’m certain that he would respond.” She was being factual. But, she wouldn’t mind sending the girls’ father on a guilt trip. For her, the ends justified the means.
After Ayame left for her banishment, Makiko allowed her husband and others to steer the conversation. But, despite that, Shunya maintained a somewhat rigid pose, sparing Kaname a glance ever so often. She blushed or bit her lip each time she caught him doing so.
“It’s a very different world,” Takeji said at one point, when the couples had been discussing their courtships and marriages. "Teenage prostitution. Girls selling their panties to old men. My granddaughters tell me things about their schools that make me shiver. I used to think we were better off than the western world; but, know I wonder if the opposite might be true.“
Shunya looked uneasy again. Things were moving back in a direction he hoped they would have finished with that evening. But, looking at Kaname, he wondered if his decisions about her and America might not indeed be proper.
“That’s because the television and newspapers keep reporting repeatedly reported such extreme cases as if they are common practice among high school girls, convincing them that it is unfashionable to be careful about sex," Makiko said. "Men should shoulder more of the blame for the situation, since they have promoted a sex culture based on their desires while ignoring the delicate nature of female bodies. It is mostly men in the media who have exaggerating the sex lives of teenage girls to boost sales or raise viewer ratings.”
“It is not all exaggeration,” Sousuke said, ignoring a plea from Kaname. “There was a girl at school who had taken a liking to me.” He almost went on to say that he had blown up the love note that she had sent him, but managed not to. “Kaname and I went undercover at the Student Council President’s request and found her at the C&J, a new local club where Jindai High School girls seem to be going to for a part time job. It was a brothel.”
Kaname sank down in her chair. She couldn’t bring herself to look in her father’s direction. It didn’t matter that she had done a good thing. It didn’t matter that she didn’t do anything overly indecent. All that would matter was that she had walked into a brothel. That, and the fact that she had done so with Sousuke.
“Ahem!” Shunya came close to knocking his water glass over.
“Don’t be angry if the two of them helped expose a bad situation,” Makiko requested. “Too many people turn a blind eye to things like that, until it’s too late. Be glad that Kaname and Sousuke have a strong moral perspective. It’s wonderful to see teenagers who respect women and their bodies.”
“I respected women and their bodies as a teenager,” Hideki put in, looking to draw a chuckle from Takeji, and maybe even Shunya. All he got was a long stare from his wife.
"It’s nothing to joke about,“ Makiko insisted. “The gynecologists I work with are constantly shocked by the number of young girls who have crazy sex lives without any concerns about their health. Many girls who visit our clinic have become pregnant after casual sex with complete strangers. Sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, chlamydia, and Human Papilloma Virus present a risk to the uninformed.”
“Affirmative. That is one of the reasons why I refused to accompany a friend of mine to Sydney in order to visit with prostitutes.” Sousuke nodded his head, Kurz’ half-joked offer fresh in his mind. “Uhhh… not that I ever would…uhhh… even if things weren‘t… uhhh….””
That time Kaname did spit out the water in her mouth. Naturally, Sousuke’s comment had caught her off guard. She had no doubt who had made that offer to Sousuke. It had her thinking. Was Sousuke less innocent than he made out to be? If not, just what kind of encounters had he been through with women? No. Wait. What business was it of hers? Why should she care why that big jerk might have done?
Hideki winked at Sousuke. Takeji grinned, enjoying the spectacle of the situation, assuming by Sousuke’s reaction that the young man was by no means worldly. Minkeo’s mouth hung open.
“This is a very wise young man,” Makiko said, beaming at Sousuke. “The kind that any father would be lucky to have as his daughter’s boyfriend.”
The look that Shunya gave Sousuke suggested otherwise.
“Yes dear,” Takeji smoothly put in, with a nod to Shunja. “But these days, fewer and fewer girls get involved in serious intimate relationships. Even amongst married couple, there is a decline in sexual behavior.” The sharp tone in his voice indicated that he was slyly complaining about such a decline in his own relationship. “Marriages, births, and hanky-panky are all spiraling downward.”
“Yes, and that has troubling implications for the nation's future. A sagging birthrate means that fewer working-age people will be around to support a growing population of elderly.” That was a subject Mineko had thought about on numerous occasions. “If the experts are correct, there is a social crisis looming.”
“Only in Japan would a popular weekly newsmagazine deem it necessary to exhort the nation's youth to abstain from sexual abstinence. ‘Young people, don't hate sex,’ a magazine pleaded last month, in a report detailing a precarious drop in sales of condoms and in business at Japan's rent-by-the-hour love hotels’.”
“Love hotels?” Sousuke had not heard that term before.
“S-O-U-S-U-K-E S-A-G-A-R-A!!!” Kaname couldn’t help herself. That shout just burst out of her.
“Thank you, Kaname.” Shunya was not displeased by his daughters lack of manners.
“More and more Japanese men and women are finding relationships too messy, tiring and potentially humiliating to bother with anymore,” Mineko said, remembering things that she had read. "They don't want a complicated life.”
“Yes, and in many young couples…” Takeji paused, letting his wife know that he was less concerned with the national trends with thirty-something couples than he was with his own fourty-something partner. “…To an astonishing degree, men and women go their separate ways. The women go to designer boutiques and chic restaurants with their girlfriends or moms, and the men go to karaoke clubs with their colleagues from work, or seek the solitude of their computer screens to romance hassle-free virtual women.”
“Virtual women?” Sousuke cocked his head.
“Cybersex,” Takeji answered. That did not make Sousuke any less confused.
“That might be better for some men,” Shunya said. Sousuke aught his eyes and began to sweat.
“It’s not good for the nation,” Takaeji insisted, too entangled in his own thoughts to catch his old friend’s meaning. “As many as a million young men… mostly teenagers, more and more old men as well… suffer from what is known here as hikikomori. They seclude themselves in their rooms for weeks at a time, for various reasons. Some are afraid of women….”
“They’re smart,” Kaname muttered under her breath, looking over at Sousuke.
“Others have had traumatic experiences….” Takeji continued.
“Tell me about it,” Kaname grumped quietly, her eyes meeting Sousuke’s.
“Some have been bullied at school or work.” Takeji raised one eyebrow, actually catching the interplay between Kaname and Sousuke. The later looked even more perplexed than before.
“I think that a lot of it comes down to the fact that younger people these days find reason to enjoy the single life.” Mineko once again thought back to her own younger days. She sighed. “Many young Japanese women live carefree lives, staying at home with their parents, paying little if any rent, letting their mothers cook their meals, clean their rooms and do their laundry. Many work dead-end jobs that don't pay much but don't cause much stress and give them enough spending money to buy designer handbags, shoes, clothes and jewelry, and have enough time to take overseas holidays with their girlfriends.”
Kaname turned her nose up at Sousuke, and then looked over at her father. Shunya looked away.
“Good for them,“ Makiko said. “There certainly are shortcomings associated with love and marriage Japanese-style. The husband works long hours and carouses into the night with his pals from work. The wife is expected to stay home, clean house and take care of kids. If the children behave badly, she's a bad mother. If her husband has an affair, she's a bad wife.” The tone in her voice made it no secret that she had suspicions about her spouse.
“Yes, some Japanese men propose to women with lines like ‘I want you to cook miso soup for me the rest of my life’.” Mineko shook her head.
“Well, I meant that!” Hideki said.
“ Japan's increasingly educated and well-traveled young women are not impressed with that kind of thing,” Makiko asserted. Men seem bewildered by the rising assertiveness of Japanese women. I think that men are getting weaker.“ That not so subtle dig had Takeji frowning. "Women don't have to rely on men anymore. They can live on their own."
Sousuke’s head was spinning. He tried to keep up with everything, but was lagging too far behind. All he knew was that relationships between men and women were far more complex than he could have ever imagined. It was simpler to read through a text on Arbalest maintenance, or piece together intelligence data for a complicated mission.
“Boys are jerks,” Kaname said.
“Yes they are,” Shunya asserted. He looked embarrassed when he realized exactly what he had agreed to. He shrugged apologetically when Hideki and Takeji looked at him with frowns.
“Not Sousuke! He’s pretty great!” That was Ayame. She was standing by her open door, listening. On the nearby table, the plate that Sousuke had set aside for her was empty of treats.
“Ayame …” Shunya sounded stern.
“Hmmmpppfff!” Kaname tossed her hair.
“I take it you’re not going to America with Kaname,” Takeji asked Sousuke. He was pretty certain he knew the answer, but realized that the precise issue had never been addressed.
“Why should he?” Shunya put in quickly.
“Well… if the two are close… that’s a long distance to be apart.” Takeji replied.
“It would be hard to maintain any romantic relationship over that distance,” Makiko said, agreeing with her husband. “If there was one,” she added for Kaname’s benefit.
“At least the pain might be slower in coming that way,” Hideki put in. “It hurts a lot more to be rejected outright.”
“That’s true,” Mineko said. “Nobody enjoys rejection. It’s especially awful when adults act like you’re supposed to instantly bounce back.” She stared at Shunya for a long moment. “Some parents act as if it were no big deal, almost as if they are saying ‘What? You mean you can’t just grow a new heart or something? What’s the matter with you?!’”
Kaname clasped her hands under the table. Her traditional game of being angry at Sousuke suddenly wasn’t fun any more. The truth of her upcoming future caught up with again. No, it had never been all that far from her thoughts, but now it was hard to ignore the facts.
“That’s right. That kind of attitude certainly doesn’t help teenagers, especially when it’s their first true heartbreak. They have no previous experiences to fall back on.” Having gotten a fair understanding of what was going on, Makiko gave Sousuke a sympathetic look. “But, believe it or not, though, life will go on. Even when your feelings are telling you otherwise.”
Sousuke looked down at his plate. He didn’t care if anyone there realized his relationship with Kaname. His feelings were what mattered to him. The woman’s statement had hit him like a full broadside from a nineteenth century ship of the main.
The conversation continued after that, touching on a number of different and unrelated subjects.
Neither Sousuke nor Kaname would remember a word of it the next day.
another SNAFU dinner Sousuke attends where he manages to (almost)
