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Even though Tokyo was long gone out of sight, Jin Takahashi sat on the bullet train with her face turned toward home. She slumped in her seat, clinging to her suitcase and running her fingers over a uniform jacket that was still too new. For all of her boasting and boldness in the entrance exam, she was nervous about Ishin. 

Leaving her family this morning had been hard. Her aunt had been crying, just a bit, and even her uncle had given her a rare hug. 

[b] “Jin-chan, please be good.”

[color=92278f] “Yes, I will.”[/color]

“Call us if you need anything at all.”

[color=92278f] “Of course, uncle.” [/color]

“And… try to make friends? Maybe if you’re nice to them, they’ll be nice back?” [/b]
Jin couldn’t quite recall what she’d said in response to that; certainly some mild and pleasing platitude. Uncle Tairo had been so hopeful, so eager for her to be a regular, happy student. It almost hurt that he was so wrong. The world didn’t work that way – no one was signing up to be her friend.  The good thing about Ishin is that she wouldn’t have to worry about that. She’d be surprised if they let her hafu-ass in the door without comment. She was further surprised to find tears blurring her vision, and she muttered curses at herself as she brushed at her eyes. 

No, there would be no time for that. If she went in weak, they’d spit her out and it’d be proof that she was inferior. She inhaled slow, and let the soothing noise of the train bolster her. Nevous about Ishin? No! Ishin should be nervous about her!

The remaining ride was altogether too short and too long, as it slid into the station. Jin had already programmed the local map into her phone, and stood in front of the academy before too long. The jacket itched. Her shoes felt too loose. Already she could pick out her upperclassmen, who were more or less relaxed. She could see the backs of other first years, all heading to the same place. Well, there was nothing for it. She hoisted her suitcase and followed the trail of new people to a usual looking auditorium. 

Already, it was filling with students. Ugh, and they were talking already. She could already feel the stares as she hovered in the doorway. Her stomach twisted with the usual anxiety. They would probably talk about her now. She braced her shoulders, showed a glint of teeth and walked right into claim a seat in the front. Let them stare.