Baki, now known as Issei, settled into his new life with Gorou and Miki as their adopted son. Embracing his new identity, Issei immersed himself in his academic pursuits, effortlessly excelling in every subject. I have to make the most of this opportunity. Education is my way forward, my chance to build a better future. Issei's was determined not to fall behind academically ever again, and now that he didn't have to worry about having to hide behind Genma's back for now, he would make sure he was on top of his game not just in martial arts, but academically as well. [1]
Gorou, the caring and considerate father figure, provided constant support and guidance. He spoke with a gentle tone, "Issei, if you ever need help with your studies, don't hesitate to ask. We're here for you." Issei is a bright kid. I want to give him the love and support he deserves.
Miki, the sharp and street-smart mother, always had an eye for details and a knack for problem-solving. She praised Issei's accomplishments while offering practical advice, "Impressive, Issei. Remember to balance your studies with other aspects of life. It's all about finding the right mix." Issei is smart and ambitious. I need to help him channel his potential and prepare him for the world.
Issei valued the warmth and stability of his new family. He cherished the moments they spent together, whether it was sharing meals or engaging in light-hearted conversations. It feels good to have a family again. Gorou and Miki genuinely care about me. I won't take this for granted.
Gorou continued to excel in his role as a devoted worker, providing for his family with unwavering dedication. He spoke proudly, "I'm glad you're part of our family, Issei. We're lucky to have you." Issei is like a son to me. I want to give him the best life possible.
Miki, always driven by ambition, balanced her role as a loving mother with her responsibilities as a successful business executive. She shared her wisdom, "Issei, remember that education opens doors. It's a tool for success. Keep pushing yourself." Issei has potential. I'll make sure he's equipped with the skills to thrive in this world.
Issei's days were filled with studying, laughter, and the comforting presence of his newfound family. Despite the challenges and pressures he faced, he carried on with determination, embracing his roles as a dutiful son and a diligent student. It's not always easy, but I'm grateful for this second chance at family. I won't waste it.
As Issei settled into his life with the Hyoudou family, he formed a deep bond with Kunou, the energetic and highly intelligent young girl who was the biological younger daughter of Gorou and Miki. Despite their age difference, Kunou saw Issei as her true elder brother and the two became inseparable. Kunou's enthusiasm is infectious. She sees me as her brother, and I can't let her down. I'll protect her no matter what.
Kunou's exuberant nature brought lively energy to the household. She eagerly shared her ideas and discoveries with Issei, often turning their room into a makeshift laboratory[3]. Issei is the best big brother! We'll do so many great things together. I'll show him my latest invention!
Issei, determined to be prepared for any potential threats from Genma or the outside world, practiced martial arts diligently in secret. He sought to master his latent abilities while keeping his true intentions hidden from the rest of the family. I can't let my guard down. Genma may come back, and I need to be ready. But I can't let Kunou or my family know the danger I'm facing.
One sunny afternoon, as Issei sparred with a punching bag in the backyard, Kunou, the vivacious and eccentric blonde-haired girl, appeared at the doorstep. Her amber eyes twinkled with excitement, and she wore a bright pink dress adorned with lace and ribbons. Kunou's presence never failed to add a dash of unpredictability to Issei's already chaotic life.
"What are you doing, Onii-chan?" Kunou asked, her small voice filled with immense curiosity as she happily skipped towards him. "I heard something weird, so I came to investigate!" [2]
Baki wiped the sweat from his brow and smiled at her. "Just training, Kunou. Trying to get stronger, you know."
Kunou's eyes widened, her voice filled with admiration. "Wow, you're amazing, Onii-chan! You're so cool!"
Baki chuckled, a warmth filling his heart. He appreciated the innocent admiration of his little sister. "Thanks, Kunou. But enough about me. How was your day?"
Kunou bounced on her feet, excitement evident in her small but loud voice. "Oh, it was fantastic! I discovered a new insect species in the garden today. They're tiny and have these adorable little antennae. I named them Flutterby Bugs!"
Baki grinned, thoroughly amused by Kunou's enthusiasm. "That's great, Kunou. I can always count on you to find something interesting. You're like a little scientist."
Kunou beamed at the compliment, her eyes sparkling. "Really? Do you think I can become a great scientist one day?"
Baki placed a hand on her shoulder, his voice filled with genuine encouragement. "Absolutely, Kunou. I believe in you. Just follow your passion and work hard. You can achieve anything."
Kunou's face lit up with determination, and she nodded eagerly. "Thank you, Onii-chan! I'll do my best!"
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the surroundings, Baki and Kunou shared a tender moment, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. Little did they know of the challenges that awaited them and the secrets they would uncover. But for now, they found solace in each other's company, a sanctuary in a world filled with uncertainty.
Amidst the chaos of everyday life, Issei and Kunou found solace in each other's company. They laughed, explored, and grew together, forming an unbreakable bond. Issei is the best big brother anyone could ask for! We'll make the world a better place with our inventions and martial arts!
Their days were filled with laughter, adventure, and the occasional mishap caused by Kunou's inventions. Through it all, Issei cherished the joy Kunou brought into his life, even as he shouldered the weight of his hidden responsibilities. Kunou reminds me of the beauty in the world. I have to protect her innocence and keep her safe.
As the days passed, Issei's martial arts prowess and Kunou's intellect continued to grow. The two supported each other through triumphs and challenges, their bond deepening with every shared experience. Issei is my partner in science and life! Together, we'll achieve greatness!
One fateful evening, while Issei was passing through a bustling market, he noticed a commotion nearby. A group of thugs was surrounding a young girl with captivating black hair and piercing brown eyes. Instinctively, Issei rushed to her aid. I can't ignore someone in trouble. I have to help her! Although Issei preferred to think of himself as an ordinary boy living a normal life, the core tenets of martial arts remained a key part of his life and he wouldn't hesitate to enact them in real life if the situation called for it.
"You punks better back off before you regret it," Issei growled, his voice determined but tinged with a touch of exhaustion from his burdens.
The thugs, undeterred, sneered and cracked their knuckles, underestimating the young martial artist before them. "Look at this little brat. You think you can take all of us on? Dream on, kid."
Issei smirked, his amber eyes glinting with confidence. He engaged them, each strike showcasing his prodigious talent, and within moments, he had them all writhing in pain on the ground.
One of the few thugs left standing yelped in surprise as he barely managed to dodge Issei's fist that had been heading his way before being sent flying by an equally quick elbow, "Who the hell is this kid? We didn't sign up for a beatdown!"
His colleague replied in fear and surprise, "Forget it, let's get out of here!"
Issei's extraordinary strength and combat skills allowed him to easily thwart the band of ruffians, saving the girl from harm. She looked up at him, her brown eyes wide with gratitude and curiosity.
Akane, unaware of Issei's true identity, approached him with gratitude and caution. "Thank you for saving me. You're amazing, Issei." Her voice was gentle yet tinged with a hint of caution. Wow, he's incredible! Who is this guy? I must thank him properly. [4]
Issei gave her a tired smile, his heart touched by her kind words. "It was nothing, really. I'm just glad you're safe." Despite his fatigue, he felt a surge of warmth in her presence.
As the police arrived to investigate the incident, the intrusive paparazzi soon followed [5], creating a scene that attracted the attention of Soun, Akane's father, and the brown-haired Nabiki, Akane's sharp and perceptive elder sister whose grey eyes were ever on the lookout for an opportunity. The unmistakable firey hair of the Hanma bloodline gave Issei's true identity away to Soun, but the martial arts master resoundingly ignored it, a mix of emotions flickering across the older man's face as he tried to keep a neutral expression. No way, seriously? Issei, the total goody-two-shoes and nerdy son of Gorou and Miki, who wouldn't even harm a fly, managed to do all this to those scumbags who are now headed to the hospital?
Honestly, I haven't seen him or Kunou around much, but from what I've seen of the kid, he seemed like someone who could either become a famous professor or a rich entrepreneur. Definitely not the kind of person you'd expect to turn a couple of tough guys, who have more records than common sense, into a sobbing, broken mess. How did he end up saving my daughter? I don't mean to sound ungrateful or anything, but this whole incident seems fishy.
Soun relaxed briefly, one eye still on Issei and the other on his youngest daughter as the police questioned them and the thugs were placed in the ambulance to be taken to the hospital. But who am I kidding? You know what? Issei really does look like him back when we were younger. I can spot that hair and expression from a mile away. If I didn't know any better, I'd say the bastard probably got involved with some naive noble girl who didn't know any better, then ditched her when she found out she was pregnant and wanted to keep the baby.
Gorou and Miki probably ended up taking care of the child, thinking it was their own stillborn baby, or maybe that jerk took the baby himself and had someone else, most likely a trusted flunky, raise it while he went off mooching and leeching off people around the world. Then, when the kid was old enough, he swooped in and then raised him, or to be more specific here tried to raise the poor kid to be this tough, macho guy, but without much intelligence. The type who'd get into fights just to prove himself, but too dumb to ask any questions or doubt anything Genma would tell him.
But luckily for the world, that lazy bum Genma has such a terrible personality and behavior that even a scrub pad would hate him. So, the supposed heir of the Hikozaemon style took off as soon as he could and ended up getting saved by Gorou and Miki in some random situation. They helped him recover from Genma's brainwashing and discover his true talents, which turned out to be in academics.
But thanks to Genma's awful treatment, the poor kid lost interest in martial arts or maybe he kept training in secret, determined to never be controlled by his father. And when he saw those awful thugs about to attack my precious daughter... you can probably guess what happened next.
But, calm as always, the head of the Tendo family kept his suspicions from both the police and his older daughter, only grunting, "Issei... I see. So the rumored legitimate son of Genma and heir to the Hikozaemon, no Saotome style of Anything Goes, who has every two-bit clown with a bit of skill and some talent claiming to be a 'master' these days and their battle-hungry students hopping mad and the Americans and Russians collaborating under the carpet in the vain hope of discovering the power of our style and using for their selfish aims, has finally made his appearance. How curious."
Meanwhile, the perceptive Nabiki watched the scene unfold with curiosity. [6] She had her suspicions about the talented young man, and now, seeing her father's reaction, she was more intrigued than ever. Her sharp, analytical mind raced with thoughts of unraveling the enigma that was Issei Hyoudou. Nabiki's cool and collected demeanor masked her sharp intellect, and she was not one to let secrets slip through her fingers. Father's reaction is peculiar. I must find out more about Issei and his true identity. I can sense there's a story here. And where there's a story, there's money to be made.
But, calm and immaculate as always despite her mercenary nature and tendency for practical jokes, the brown-haired young woman muttered under her breath while crossing her slender arms under her already generous bosom, "Issei, is it? Isn't he the older brother of that Kunou girl and the son of our neighbors Gorou and Miki? There's more to him than meets the eye. Time to dig deeper." Nabiki's thoughts danced with anticipation, her sharp mind already concocting a plan.
As the sun began to set, Baki and Akane exchanged a few more words, their conversation light and friendly. Akane was polite and composed, but Baki sensed a hint of vulnerability beneath her exterior. He found himself drawn to her genuine and kind nature. As Akane skipped towards the gate of the grand mansion where the Tendos lived, she blurted out, trying to hide her red face, "Issei, thank you for saving me. I won't forget this." I must live up to my family's expectations and honor their name. Issei inspires me, and I won't let him or my family down!
The black-haired young girl remained cautious and somewhat paranoid, determined to fulfill her family's great legacy. Polite and composed, she exuded the grace of a noble lady, albeit with occasional flustered moments when teased. Issei... thank you for saving me, Akane's inner thoughts whispered with gratitude, her heart stirred by the courage he displayed as she made the way towards the door of her house.
The encounter left an indelible mark on both of them, and as Baki returned to the Hyoudou residence, he couldn't help but wonder what the future held for him and the captivating girl he had just saved.
Despite his internal conflict, Soun remained silent, choosing not to reveal Issei's identity to Akane or anyone else after the incident. Nabiki, intrigued by her father's demeanor, began her clandestine investigation into the enigmatic origins of Issei. There's more to Issei than meets the eye. I'll have to gather information carefully.
The graceful and astute young lady skillfully leveraged her connections in both the shadowy underbelly and the upper echelons of society in her endeavor to uncover more about the enigmatic young gentleman who had captivated her cherished younger sibling. However, her search yielded only CCTV footage of Issei, known previously as "Ranma Saotome," showcasing his heroic rescue of Gorou and Miki from assailants during his tender youth.
Additionally, the middle daughter of the Tendo family encountered unverified accounts of a boy resembling Issei embarking on a remarkable journey across Asia alongside a mysterious, imposing, and remarkably tall individual sharing the same distinct features. Rumors painted this imposing figure as an immensely powerful, lethal martial artist, driven by excessive pride and arrogance. [6]
It was logical for Nabiki to surmise that this enigmatic figure was none other than Issei's biological father, from whom Issei had likely escaped due to feeling used as a mere tool or a means to an end, or possibly due to the father's oppressive and undoubtedly severe demeanor. Oh Issei, you get more interesting the more I dig deeper into your mysterious past. You better be worth it pretty boy, or else you're going to learn the hard way the results of messing with the Tendo family.
As the days passed, Issei and Akane's paths continued to cross, and they spent more time together. Issei was drawn to Akane's determined yet cautious nature, while she admired his strength and kindness. Akane is different from anyone I've known. She's strong and determined, yet cautious. I like that about her. Issei couldn't deny that he found himself forming a close bond with the high-spirited but often shy and reclusive young girl.
On the other hand, Akane found her feelings for the soft-spoken but strong and kind older boy who had saved her life growing day by day. Issei is so strong and kind. I must focus on fulfilling my family's legacy, but being around him makes me feel different.
Meanwhile, Nabiki skillfully navigated the realms of technology and pranks, gathering information about Issei without raising suspicions. Her sharp mind and knack for uncovering secrets made her the perfect detective. I'm getting closer to the truth. Whatever Issei's hiding behind that kind smile and nerdy get up of his, won't stay hidden for long.
In this complex web of connections and emotions, Issei continued to carry the weight of his responsibilities while cherishing the newfound friendships he had formed. I have to protect my family and friends, but I'm grateful for the bonds we share. It's tiring, juggling all these roles. But I can't give up. I'm grateful for the chance to make a difference.
As the months turned to years, the news of Issei's heroic rescue of Akane spread far and wide, even reaching the ears of one of Yuujirou's numerous illegitimate offspring, Jack Hanma. [8]
With striking blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, Jack was a relatively unknown but excellent amateur boxer, driven by a deep-seated desire for revenge against his father for the heinous act of brutally raping Jack's mother, Dianne Nell, a former elite CIA SOG operative, during the Vietnam War. [9] Dianne's mission to capture Yuujirou for study by the US government had tragically failed, leaving scars that ran deep in Jack's soul.
Jack mumbled under his breath as he entered the gym after hearing the news, "So, the rumors were true. Yuujirou has a legitimate heir. A trueborn son to carry on his twisted and evil legacy of broken hearts, dashed dreams, and devastated families." I'll make him pay for what he did to my mother. I'll bring justice to her memory.
Crafting a cunning plan, Jack assumed the identity of Jack Ryan and subsequently infiltrated the American intelligence services. His self-righteous and somewhat delusional sense of justice drove him to climb the ranks of the CIA, becoming the head of the esteemed organization. "With power, I can create change. I'll put an end to the likes of Yuujirou and protect the innocent." These words silently passed through Jack's lips like a recitation, providing the motivation for his continued pursuit of his father. My heart is in the right place. I'll stop at nothing to bring him down, even if it costs me everything.
As Jack Ryan, Jack became a formidable force within the American intelligence services. His heart burned with a self-righteous fire, driven by the desire for revenge against his father, Yuujirou Hanma, a man known for his brutal strength and heinous actions.
As Jack Ryan, he thought, I will bring justice to my father's victims and put an end to his reign of terror.
Under the guise of "Jack Ryan," he contributed to the inception of a highly confidential and covert unit, the enigmatic "Task Force 141," specifically designed to tackle threats like Yuujirou and others of his ilk. [10] With an air of unwavering confidence and unwavering persuasion, Jack successfully convinced the US President, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and ultimately the Senate of the imperative need for a covert and highly specialized unit, tasked with neutralizing superhuman entities that posed a significant risk to American national security. I'm on a mission of justice. My mother deserves vengeance for what happened to her that day. And not just her, but all the other victims that bastard has left behind.
This unit, shrouded in darkness even deeper than the night itself, would serve as an indispensable safeguard for the Empire of Liberty in its eternal fight against all threats to freedom and justice. "Task Force 141 will hunt down these dangerous individuals and bring them to justice."
Jack's position as the head of "Task Force 141" gave him the means to gather information on powerful martial artists like Yuujirou. Jack's resolve never wavered, even as he faced numerous challenges and setbacks. Nothing will stop me. I'll bring Yuujirou to his knees.
In his heart, Jack believed he was a crusader for justice, but his actions were driven by a personal vendetta. He knew the risks he took and the sacrifices he made might cost him his life, but he was unwavering in his pursuit. Jack's thoughts remained resolute, his mind consumed by the single-minded goal of vengeance.
As the tension between Issei's dual life and Jack's relentless pursuit of justice escalated, their paths unknowingly moved closer to a collision that could change everything. There's something brewing, something dangerous. I need to be prepared for whatever comes next. Back in Japan, Issei continued to carry the weight of his responsibilities. Despite his weariness, he remained determined to live life to the fullest, cherishing every moment.
It's tough, but I won't give up. I'll keep going, thankful for the opportunities I have. Baki's inner thoughts reflected his unwavering determination, though he often felt the weight of the world on his shoulders.
Issei's mind remained sharp and focused as he continued doing well academically in school and continuing his intense training in secret, augmenting his mostly grappling-based fighting style with striking techniques from karate, both Okinawan and Kyokushin, as well as amateur boxing.
The elusive miscreants concealed within the enigmatic shadows of Kyoto yielded immense value for Issei's consistent endeavors in refining his martial art, elevating his velocity, vigor, and prowess to extraordinary levels. Moreover, his astute intellect not only proved advantageous in scholarly pursuits but also in the realm of combat. Whispers of an enigmatic crimson-haired apparition, adorned with radiant amber eyes, swiftly traversed the clandestine realms of the criminal underworld.
It was claimed that this figure embodied the legendary Yuujirou Hanma, the dreaded "beast of Okinawa," in his prophesied resurgence. Such chilling tales coursed through the veins of Kyoto, compelling the branches of the Triad and Red Mafiya/Mishpuka to hastily disperse across Japan or seek refuge beyond its borders. Alas, these displaced souls, driven by desperation, encountered the unforgiving grasp of Japanese law enforcement and foreign intelligence agencies as they endeavored to forge new lives in unfamiliar lands.
Meanwhile, back in America, Jack's determination was solid and his mind was dead-set on capturing his wretched father and bringing the evil man to justice. Soon, Yuujirou, you'll face the consequences of your actions. I'll see to it myself.
The stage was set for a clash of wills, ideals, and destinies, where the consequences would reverberate through time and space. As fate would have it, Jack's quest for vengeance and Issei's pursuit of martial excellence were bound to intersect. Unbeknownst to Issei, Jack had long discovered the truth about the young boy's existence and lineage. The news of Issei's heroic rescue of Akane had reached even the American intelligence agencies, piquing Jack's interest.
"So, the rumors were true. My father's legitimate heir is a martial artist of exceptional skill, even at such a tender age. Truly a chip off the old block, huh? But then again, I shouldn't be complaining, as I have that bastard's wretched blood flowing through my veins as well." Jack couldn't help but feel a strange mix of simultaneous pride and resentment as he meticulously examined a confidential dossier that contained a comprehensive compilation of information gathered by the discreet Russo-American alliance in his rather spartan office in the Company's HQ at Langley.
This collaboration arose from a shared necessity to halt the malevolent actions and appalling deeds committed by Yuujirou, while also unveiling the true extent of his remarkable accomplishments before they became public knowledge. The dossier encompassed every detail collected on Baki since the moment he was observed approaching Yuujirou as a young child, when the latter arrived to collect him from his uncaring unofficial foster mother's lavish mansion.
This valuable intelligence was obtained through the efforts of a covert operative embedded within the household staff of the Akezawa estate.
Not only did the file contain the spy's findings on Baki's time with the former prostitute Emi, including the sordid circumstances surrounding her husband's mysterious demise and her subsequent control over his immense wealth and innumerable assets, but it also featured numerous intelligence reports from both Company and FSB agents who surveilled Yuujirou and Issei during their journey across Asia. Additionally, unverified accounts of Issei's remarkable exploits during his travels with his biological father, as well as transcripts and witness testimonies from CCTV footage capturing Issei's incapacitation of criminals in Kyoto, were included. [11]
These records spanned the period prior to Baki as Ranma's adoption by Gorou and Miki after he saved them from the thugs.
Their paths were destined to cross, setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation. Jack Ryan, fueled by a sense of justice and a desire to stop the dark legacy of his father, was determined to take down Yuujirou Hanma and anyone associated with him.
Meanwhile, Baki's life continued with a sense of normalcy, though his journey was far from ordinary. He continued to face challenges and unfortunately, numerous adversaries looking to either challenge him or avenge their or their loved one's treatment by his biological father, but his indomitable spirit remained strong. He treasured the moments of happiness and friendship, finding solace in his martial arts training.
[1] Since Baki/"Ranma", now Issei, is free from Genma's clutches and unknowingly the disguised primordial force's malevolent manipulations, he decides to use the opportunity given to him to fully pursue his education while keeping an eye out for his biological father and any schemes 'Genma' has up his sleeve.
[2] You might be wondering, since I mention later on in the chapter that Issei is training in secret away from his family, why I had Kunou find out about Issei's training and his martial arts skills. This is because I wanted to have at least one person before Issei enters high school that he can relate to in terms of being a prodigy far above their peers that nobody can truly understand, and also to provide a basis for further events in the series.
[3] That's right, I made Kunou into a mad scientist and child prodigy in the vein of Charlotte Dimandas from the Hundred light novel, anime and manga series, with an appearance based off Lisa Harvey from the previously mentioned franchise and Crown Princess Lisesharte Atismata aka "Lisha" Saijaku Muhai no Bahamūt/Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle light novel, manga and anime franchise, even though Lisa has green eyes and Charlotte has slivery-purple hair, and Lisesharte has red eyes in contrast to Kunou's and Charlotte's amber ones.
Why? Because I hated how underutilized she was in canon DxD in contrast to overrated villains like Trihexa and Rizeviem who serve no real purpose other than to make DxD's canon plot unnecessarily edgy and up the stakes to please some of the light novel fans who came into the light novel from the anime.
[4] And Issei and Akane's relationship is off to an interesting start, hopefully, better than the one Ranma and Akane had in Ranma 1/2's canon. In case you're wondering about the initial engagement between Ranma and all three Tendou sisters {yes, even Kasumi} made by Soun and Yuujirou in his disguise as "Genma" after they sealed away Happosai.
[5] Since this story takes place in modern times instead of the 1990s like canon Baki or the 1980s like canon Ranma 1/2, concealing the incident from the public would be extremely hard, not to mention potentially stupid and dangerous as well.
[6] Nabiki would definitely be interested in Issei after this, and her investigation into Issei's past is going to dig up some things that are going to come back to haunt our favorite grappler, I mean faux lecherous Red Dragon Emperor later on.
[7] Like his journey with his biological father, the feared Yuujirou Hanma as Genma Saotome when he [Issei] was still Baki Hanma disguised as Ranma Saotome. Nabiki is not going to figure out who Genma really is just yet or learn of Yuujirou's reputation when she unmasks him, but his presence in Issei's life is going to inspire the inquisitive middle daughter of the Tendos to dig even deeper into her younger sister's crush's past.
[8] I told you Jack would make an appearance, but what will he do when he finds out about Issei's heroic rescue of Akane Tendou? Read on to find out!
[9] I made Dianne into a SOG operative because it makes sense considering what she was assigned to do [act as a honeypot for Yuujirou in order to capture him and take him to America for further study and experimentation] and the upper branch of the American intelligence community wouldn't hand over such an important, illegal and potentially dangerous operation to any old operative.
[10] You weren't expecting that, were you? Since everyone's favorite multi-national spec ops unit created specifically to deal with world-threatening terrorist groups or potentially deadly individuals has made an appearance, will Makarov manipulate the Russian government into starting a destructive war with the Western bloc with the aim of seizing power in the aftermath? The answer is...no. Makarov and his crew of deviants were the stress relief Yuujirou needed to work off his anger and frustration after he discovered Baki as Ranma had escaped from his grasp, with other key Ultranationalist bases and strongholds being subsequently destroyed by the Beast of Okinawa under the delusion they were government-run as a warning to the Russian government not to test his rather short patience.
[11] You'd be surprised what governments and intelligence agencies can and will dig up on people, especially those who are a threat to them, when they have the will and the presence.