I remember back a few days ago someone on the FFML sugggested a 
fic in which it was a manhood ritual for men of the Saotome family to go 
to Jyuusenkyo at age 16 and get cursed.
	Don't remember the original poster, but lets look at how some of 
the characters might change...

Genma:  Since he's been turning into a panda since age 16, he's gotten 
very comfortable with his transformation and fights equally well in 
either form.  He doesn't feel at all disgraced by Ranma's change, but is 
annoyed the boy isn't adjusting well to it.

Ranma:  Knew this was coming, so isn't too shocked by the concept, but 
was really hoping for a cool curse like wolf or eagle.  He was raised by 
Genma much as before, so he's clueless about what girls are really like 
or how to interact with them, and doesn't want to be "girly."

Nodoka:  Knew Genma was a panda, and that Ranma was going to be cursed.  
She's absolutely *delighted* with his new form, and keeps trying to get 
him to dress and act "appropriately" in girl mode.

Souun Tendou:  Is well aware of his old friend's transformation, and is 
not at all fazed when a girl and panda show up on his doorstep.  But he 
forgot to mention the curses (or the engagement) to his daughters ahead 
of time, and they react as per the regular timeline...


SKJAM!