Well here we are again boys and girls welcome back to my little play ground. Now where did we leave off? Oh yeah, Ron's training is continuing to get tougher and more realistic and the sword master along with Sensei also had a hand in bringing Wade Load into this mess after ensuring that he would keep his yap shut although the young genius has some reservations about the 'bonding' and some of the training.
Kim graduates from her cheer camp that Daddy Possible so thoughtfully planned out for her to keep her busy and away from the 'evil' Ron and then springs a month long vacation to both his Mother's place and later his Brother, Slim's, ranch (although that is in the future….so you gotta wait for it). Just before Kim goes on to show what she has learned (as well as her group) James informs Ron (who is watching via Kimmunicator) of said vacation. Anne notices that Ron can speak Japanese and that he can write poetry in Japanese.
After the exhibition Kim gives Ron and eyeful with the obvious support of her Mother while Daddy Possible is blissfully oblivious to this relatively secure peep show going on with the images going through satilites. And my guess is that he would blame Ron for this anyway (man does he need counseling).
Also included is a meeting in Huntingdon, England….errr you might want to pay attention to this (ST).
Now for the thanks part; I want to really show my appreciation for my beta and sometimes co-author CajunBear73 for all the work his has done (and is continuing to do) over the years.
Next I want to thank everyone who has read faved or alerted this story or sent me a PM to make comments, I really do read them all. I deeply thank Jimmy1201 (Rufus is not in the tattoo… Ron who is masked and holding a sword, Kim who is standing behind Ron and there is another girl who is standing next to her). There is a large light blue figure of a monkey in the background behind them all. Ron appears to be guarding the girls.
Readerjunkie, you should know by now that I am 'not right' and Ron wants anything I can give him.
Pavelius, of course I like to torture Ron, it's what I do! Is James in trouble with Anne….yup, can he dig himself out of this hole….maybe.
CB just how much do you think James is gonna get away with?
Fighting Chicken, you have some of it fairly close, but it's the small stuff you that you zoned in on, go back and read 'Metatron' again the clues are there, well the clues for the big stuff.
Pbow you are closer than you know.
OK now I have given out all the hints for this time!
Now who can tell me who the Asian girl is in Ron's ink job? Remember she is a little younger than Kim is and the beautiful read head is seventeen at this time.
Well I guess it's time for you to read this and let me get back to writing chapter 56.
ST-103
XXXXX
The Hunter: Book One
Chapter 13
Yamanouchi, Japan:
(Well has your tattoo stopped itching Chosen One?), the Sword Master inquired with a knowing grin that the piece of skin art annoyed the 'now inked' Ron Stoppable to no end. The blond only tolerated it because the 'ink job' was customary so the American teen knew that he couldn't get out of it; not to mention it was his 'identifying' mark by which he would be known by in the school and within the fraternity of the Shinobi. When Ron had asked to see Yori's he received a severe dressing down by her boyfriend. This then got his curiosity even more aroused. Ron was even secretly amused at how his tattoo told his story to those who could decipher it.
(Sigh, yes Master it was annoying for a few days, but I am over it now. However I dread the women in my life ever finding out.), Ron frowned, (Anyway who is the third person she almost looks like Yori-kun, but with longer hair?) The young ninja was given a mirror earlier so that he could see the finished work and some of it still perplexed him.
(You know one of them must eventually, and then you must face the music. However, I hope 'she' enjoys it.), the Sword Master smiled then paused knowing that now wasn't the time to let the Chosen One know all, (The other female will be revealed soon. This much I can tell you, she is not Yori-kun so if your beloved questions you tell her the tattooist was drunk on his ear.)
(I don't know how you were able to get that good of a rendition of Kim to do that, but I hope she's impressed. Mom is gonna be real happy when she sees it though.), Ron sighed while he tried to think of who the young Asian female could be as he had for the last two days.
(That is our hope as well now to get on the final part of this business, Stoppable-san this is your final test while at Yamanouchi this session although there will be more training. Tonight there will be a ceremony. Please do not get yourself killed as this would spoil the occasion for the rest of us.), Master Umestsu instructed using his normal dry humor while not letting him in on the mystical reason for the art, (Remember to keep fighting as long as you can.)
Seeing the blond American teen nod, he continued, (You will be using a dulled blade tonight to keep the blood down as will your combatants. We do not wish to have you all stitched up before you head home to America tomorrow next week. Now go change into your battle gi and return in fifteen minutes.)
(Thank you for this opportunity Master, I hope I do not fail. The disgrace of my spilled blood indeed frightens my immortal soul), Ron replied with small smile and a low bow before he left.
(Keep your sense of purpose Stoppable-san. You have traveled far in a short time, but there is much yet to do. Master Sensei feels you have a great task before you. The echoes of the result may follow us down through the ages. Our descendants may sing our praises, or rue our failures, but I fear that most of it will be on your head. So remember to hold your head with pride.), Master Umestsu warned, now more seriously.
(I understand the consequences to myself and those whom I love Master. Excuse me, but I must prepare. However if I hold it too high then I risk losing it to someone with a fast sword.), Ron bowed again.
(Remember there is always someone who is faster, the trick is to know that and know how to deal with it.) Master Umestsu imparted to his student.
XXX
Nana's place in Florida:
"Kimberly is Ronald going to call again today?", Nana Possible asked as she braved the young red head in her kitchen while mixing batter for her famous lemon squares. The mostly retired former 'operator' showed her concern for the blond teen who had befriended her granddaughter years before.
"Sigh...Yeah Nana, I really miss him. It's a good thing that I can talk to Ronnie, Dad almost fried my brain when he told Ron that we couldn't talk till I got back into Middleton…I really, really miss him.", Kim replied almost like a lovesick little girl as she laid her head on her arms while sitting at the table.
"And this is the first summer that you've ever had a boyfriend and you're separated from him. This reminds me of my husband. Let me tell you about your Grandfather Phillip. We had only been married a few years and he got posted to the Antarctic and he had to winter at the South Pole. I was alone on this Army Base in North Carolina while I was pregnant with your uncle Timothy. We almost divorced because of the stress.", the matriarch of the Possible family revealed to her granddaughter.
"Nana, how did you deal with that? I mean that sounds terrible being so all alone and going to have a baby!", Kim's eyes opened up.
"I talked to a Chaplin, he explained that what my husband was doing was very important and that I was lucky enough to be able to make the sacrifice for him. However the poor Reverend didn't know that I had 'duties' as well. We had been communicating by Amateur Radio as often as they could make a connection, which was about once a week…..It wasn't easy, sometimes we'd lose contact in the middle of telling each other how much we were in love. I think that summer and I say summer, because it was summer here and winter there, was both the worst and best thing in our young lives honey.", Nana informed Kim, "And of course we couldn't use certain language because of laws...it was very frustrating at times."
"Why is that Nana?", Kim asked wondering why the older Possible thought that way.
"Because Kimberly we never ever took each other for granted after that like many couples did. We became very, very close and we shared everything. Even now after Phillip has been gone ten years I can still feel him.", Nana replied with a tear in her eye not bothering to reveal to her that radio communications of that sort could be heard by anyone then if they just had a receiver that could tune in the frequency.
"I didn't really know Grandpa Phil Nana? What was he like?", the young heroine inquired.
"You know Ronald is so much like Phillip was, it's uncanny….their hair color was different of course, but they both had big ears and they kidded around a lot. He always supported me in the things that I did just as Ronald does you...And Phillip liked your Ronald very much."
"I don't remember him that way Nana, but I was real young when he passed.", the teen hero softly replied not knowing what to say about him.
The grandmother seemed lost for a moment, thinking about something only she could see. "Kimberly, Phillip was the perfect man, he was perfect for me. When he was younger he was a bit of a goof, but when his back was against the wall he was so tough, so resourceful. My how I see him in your Ronald. You know Phillip was a late bloomer too, but when his turn came up he became one that all the girls chased…..I was so lucky that he stayed devoted to me. I am so blessed for having found that man.", Nana paused.
"And you and I are so much alike, I just hope it turns out as well for you as it did for me."
"Me too Nana, I know you did things for the Government that you can't talk about, but maybe someday we can...Just like someday I'll be able to tell Mom and Dad what Ron and I really have done.", Kim told her softly.
"I have never told my sons of the adventures I had in my youth, maybe you will have the opportunity to inform your loved ones. But I hope you understand the situation that you are now facing Kimberly, use this time away from Ronald to cement your feelings for him, I feel if you let him go the results will be permanent and you will rue them for the rest of your life. I don't want that to happen to you dear.", Nana stopped smoothing out the batter in the pan and stared at her granddaughter to make her point.
Kim Possible's face just turned ashen, "I couldn't see my life without Ronnie Nana, I don't know if I could go on. I know I couldn't fight the bad guys anymore." She didn't want to tell the older woman about the ceremony that she had gone through and how it seemed to deepen her feelings even more for her blond haired best friend.
"I know I felt the same way for my Phillip. I've noticed that necklace you are wearing now on during your visit. Is it new, because I don't remember seeing it before.", Nana asked noticing the engraving on it and finally commenting on it as she noticed Kim touch it again.
"Sigh it's from Ronnie, when we began dating we both wanted something that would last and something from each other so we could have something tangible to focus our feelings. That's why my locket has Ron's image on it and a lock of his hair inside. He has mine around his neck too. It makes us feel much closer to each other.", Kim revealed as she blushed slightly under the gaze of the elder Possible matriarch.
XX
Anne Possible lay on her back poolside, trying to get an even tan to take home knowing that she was going to lose it anyway in only a few short weeks, 'At least James has stopped backbiting Ronald now. Maybe Nana and I can let up on him a little.', she mused behind her sunglasses as her husband was splashing the twins (who were always trying for an advantage like always.) 'He will only be able to pick on them for another year or two at the most before they get him. We'll still be here another week and a half and then back to Middleton. I wonder what that man of mine is going to pull on Kimberly and Ronald now?'
"James.", Anne called out, "Why don't you be a dear and rub some lotion into my back?"
"Be right there Annie, just a second.", he then disappeared under the surface as his two youngest took him down again.
XXX
France:
(How are the plans proceeding?), the leader asked.
(As well as can be expected, the site is up and we have been able to change the counters so it appears to have been set up years ago. A very professional job if I might add.), the other young man named Manfred turned his monitor to show it off, (I'm sure we have taken care of all possibilities.)
(I see you have a phone number too. Why have you done that?), the leader asked in confusion.
(If you have to use the cover story of the 'Earl' then we have the number listed, if someone calls to check we will have everything in place, think of it as another safeguard. Some of the others are working out the storyline now, you have to memorize it to make sure that it is second nature to you.), he warned, (If there is a hole in the story the Geek might see through it and notify the authorities.)
(Good thinking my friend, we don't want anything to get in the way of our payday.), the younger man smiled and clapped his associate on the back.
(Yes, now how much longer are we going to inhabit the chateau?), Manfred asked.
(I don't know, we are going to need a place to return to once the mission is over, so I plan to extend the lease for another year. After the payoff I want to disband for a while like we have done in the past to throw any surveillance by the authorities off the scent if you know what I mean.), the leader explained.
(I have met this young lady and I want to impress her.), Manfred revealed.
(We can mostly vacate the place if you want. I suggest that she only be here for a couple of days.)
(I will use the limousine with the side curtains drawn for security.), Manfred told him citing some of the measures members of the team had used in the past for their dalliances to take care of certain 'urges'.
(That will work my friend. We have a meeting after dinner tonight. We will bring it up as a topic of discussion.), the leader suggested.
'Maybe I should study red heads and get used to their quirks if I'm ever going to leave my mark on the world.', the leader mused as he turned away and headed to the door of the computer lab.
XXX
Dr. Elizabeth Director looked over the report in front of her. "Are you sure our little deviant 'friend' is active somewhere again Will?"
"Yes Ma'am. Though we have only heard through the grapevine, so to speak. I hope to hell that he doesn't go after a really big name this time. The last one almost started a war.", Agent Du replied.
"What are we going to do about it Du?", Betty rubbed her temples not wanting to deal with this at the moment.
"We have several of our female agents combing the bushes as we speak….we think that it would be easier catching this group with one of them. From what intelligence we have from regional sources in Europe we have heard that some people who may have been associated with him in the past have gone missing. If any of them come up with anything we will find out hopefully before they bolt from wherever they are at.", GJ's 'Top' Agent informed her.
"Should we put more resources into the area?", the one eyed director of Global Justice asked.
"I think that if we flooded the area, our people might inadvertently fumble over each other and start blowing covers. I think it is better that we just use the resources that we already have in the area and hope we get lucky. It's not like he's going to take down a government or start a war Ma'am. He's really just an annoyance that we have to take care of...A minor villain you will, an irritant not a real threat.", Will gave her his appraisal of the situation.
"I agree Will, but let me know if there is any word. I did give my word to several families to apprehend the clown.", she told him.
"I hope so too Ma'am but up till now he has just been a nuisance."
"I hope you are right Will. Now I wonder how Miss Possible is enjoying her vacation?", Betty mused.
"She is taking a much need rest Ma'am, unfortunately for her young Mr. Stoppable won't be able to accompany her during this much needed break in the action for her.", Will snorted.
"That was an evil idea, but a great one. Now we should be able to gauge for ourselves just how competent he is without Miss Possible's interruption skewing our little fact finding mission.", Betty chuckled at the prospect of knowing more on the subject, "I want to offer them both positions at GJ, but I have to be sure of him. The 'Ron' Factor' project got too close and we had to scrap the study before too many people became aware of him."
"It's hard to believe they did, but I suppose with enough figures you can make red look blue if you want to.", Will smiled as he knew just how hard his boss had to dance around certain 'things' that had been cropping up.
"Yes now when is Mr. Stoppable supposed to return home?", Dr. Director asked.
"According to the schedule that we listened to earlier he should be home in a couple of days. I think he may be getting a little bored, so maybe we might tell him a little story about someone who wants to hurt his little girlfriend and have him bring them in.", Betty suggested, "you know a threat against a reserve agent…."
"You'd lie to him?"
"It won't be an out and out lie, most of those crooks and villains would like nothing better than to take down the crime fighting red headed teen. We'll just enhance the story a little a little unless we find another way of gauging his abilities.", she smiled, "We really need to see what he can do without Miss Possible leading and we could find some suitable volunteers to find out what he is capable of."
"Do you mean willing or unwilling volunteers Ma'am? Well we have a couple of weeks to plan something. Let's make contact with his parents and offer to, oh send him to a 'gaming camp' as a way of apologizing for the way we treated him earlier.", Will stopped and looked at his boss with a widening smile, "You know this could really put him back on our side where we need him."
XXX
The blond haired American teen bowed to the senior fighters he was going to face during his time on the course outside the walls of the ninja school. (You four go to your stations. I expect to see Stoppable-san with sizable bruises for his efforts tonight.), Master Sensei told them as he and the Sword Master returned the bows to the four.
After they left the area Sensei looked to his prized student, (Be aware Stoppable-san they will not kill you, but they will hurt you if given the chance. I expect to see how your training has progressed since you returned to us.)
(Thank you Master Sensei. I understand I have much to do to keep KP safe and I will to do my utmost to honorably pass this exam.), Ron replied as he bowed and got down on his knees to meditate, slipping his hand over the locket he wore with pride remembering the features of the one he had sworn to protect with his own life.
Half an hour later the American teen was on his feet again. Ron Stoppable, Middleton High School slacker and goof off bowed to the man who oversaw his training, (I am ready.)
(Good follow Master Umestu to the start of the course and good luck.), Master Sensei bowed slightly in return.
When the two got to the beginning of the course the Sword Master began Stoppable's final instructions, (Stay on the path. I will be waiting at the end. You will be finished when you see me again. Remember there are four of them out there. They have made their own plans and can fight you as many times as they want. You may have four battles or ten, or even just one. Even though the blades have been dulled they are sharp enough to cut and leave a nasty wound. While you are outthere are innocents as well so not all are here to give you battle. Protect them as they need you. Sensei wants to test your honor. Good luck my student.) The Ninja Master bowed, Ron returned the bow and began the walk to the test which would decide if he had indeed gotten better over the summer.
'I hope Rufus is having fun with Yori.', Ron half smiled as he pulled the face mask up to his cowl and loosened the sword across his back.
XXX
Middleton Mall:
The fashion maven of the high school and the small city sat in the food court taking her lunch break.
"Hi Monique how are ya hanging?", the college recruit smiled and waved as he made his way over to her avoiding the much smaller inhabitants who were running around making their parents edgy with their antics.
The African-American for her part smiled as he seemed to avoid all contact with the grace of a ballerina.
As he got to her booth she commented, "Those are some pretty good moves there blondie."
"When you're under an eight man rush of three hundred pound men who are very hungry and aggressive you tend to be light on your feet, or at the bottom of a pile.", Brick Flagg laughed, "Mind if I sit with you?"
"Sure, I'd like the company.", Monique replied and paused.
"What are you doing here today, I thought you'd be packing for college."
"I'm done and am going to load the truck up tomorrow for the trip. It's hard to believe just how much stuff you have when it's time to move. I mean Mom and Dad showed up at the apartment to take some of the things to their new place. I just couldn't take those trophies with me.", Brick laughed lowly, "Mostly they were about how well the system works."
"Yeah you mentioned something about that. I wonder how deep it goes?", the gossip queen mused.
"If I were you I wouldn't stick my nose in there Monique...That's just some advice. I'm just happy that I'm out, some other sucker is gonna get trapped by this though and the cycle will repeat itself. Anyway what are ya doing tonight?", he asked.
"Nothing, with Kim being gone on vacation there isn't a lot of people to hang with.", Monique frumped, a little lonely.
"Wanna go with me to a movie and dinner?", Brick asked.
Monique thought for a moment, "Sure do you want to meet or pick me up?"
"How about I pick you up? Say seven?"
"Yeah sounds like fun big boy.", Monique replied.
XXX
The masked figure calmly walked on the path used for exercises at Yamanouchi when he heard, (Help help.)
Silently, Ron hurried to the noise.
Before him was another black clad figure trying to grab onto an obviously frightened young woman.
(May I be of assistance?), the American asked calmly knowing instinctively that this was the first part of his test.
(Get lost loser.), the assailant taunted Ron well aware of what he had been called for most of his incarceration in high school, his intention to quickly make him lose focus.
(Please remove your hands from the lady.), Ron told him staying calm as he was taught ignoring the insult.
(Make me.), he laughed as he threw the young woman at Ron who caught her and put her behind his back absently keeping track of her as well in case she was part of the team that he was now facing.
(As you desire dishonored one.), Ron replied with a hiss.
The two circled each other for a few moments when the attacker suddenly charged and drew the sword that he carried on his hip.
Ron's sheathed weapon was out in a blur that astonished both the attacker and the girl who was now just inside the wooded path. Silently he removed the Katana from its scabbard and held it before him, prepared to use whichever defense he needed to protect the girl from the other masked swordsman.
The American watched with narrowed eyes and waited as the one leading the assault rushed in with his Katana in an overhead cut meant to split Ron in two. As the opposing Katana began its downward strike the blond moved to his left and parried the blow, and countered with his own strike from left shoulder to right hip and then back across the middle at the navel. The series was meant to get the attacker's sword to take a feint he offered and then gut him on the spot.
(It is good Stoppable-san. You have won.), the attacker realized his mistake and lowered his weapon to his side.
With a bow to both the girl and his opponent Ron re-sheathed his sword and bowed knowing this was just the beginning.
X
The American stopped as he noticed two figures to his front in the gloom, (Drop your weapons and your valuables, then leave.)
(Come and take them if you feel lucky.), Ron replied as he used his thumb to release the catch on the sword and sheath knowing that this was going to happen fast.
The two moved as one. 'I must take the faster one first before they get me between them.', Ron mused as he drew his Katana with his scabbard left inside his sash this time.
Both weapons whistled to each and 'pinged' as they made repeated contact; the distinctive sound of steel on steel hammering away at each other. The first fighter was definitely one of the best that the American had ever crossed blades with as he feinted, parried then slashed as his comrade silently approached from the rear.
Ron could 'feel' the other when he saw his opponent he faced suddenly stiffen. At the last possible moment the blond pivoted on one foot and tripped the latecomer to the fight and slashed low delivering a non-life threatening gash to the side and leg. Then Ron reversed his spin and thrust forward making the original attacker slide to his right to slice downward towards Ron's shoulder nicking him as he caught the scabbard across his face distracting him and allowing Ron to close and stop his decapitating slice just as the sword contacted the neck.
(We both give.), the one on the ground told Ron seeing that both would have been killed or wounded severely if this had kept up.
(Good let me help you. I am sorry about the wound.), Ron told a senior student who he had been paired with before.
XX
Again the black form was quiet as he moved along the path staying in the dark.
XX
(Who are you? Where is Makita?), the female asked in concern, (We are on exercise.)
(Ah old friend, we haven't crossed paths since the volcano remember?), the masked person asked the female in front of him, (As for my former fellow student...let's say he is indisposed, my sources know all about the exercise.)
(You!), the lithe ninja hissed remembering the dishonor that this one had caused with his actions. Unfortunately Yori didn't have her weapons with her as her evil ex-classmate drew his sword and smiled.
(And I will have my revenge on the gaijin soon and all will be right in the world.), Fukushima smirked as he blew some 'dust' off his hand into Yori's face.
The disgraced Yamanouchi ninja student caught Yori in part to keep her body from making noise. Then he carried her over to a tree that he had picked out to make sure that anyone traveling up the path saw her first. Picking up the rope he had hidden earlier he quickly tied up Yori, gagged her and placed a red wig on her head. He then tossed the remainder of the rope over a limb and hauled the young Japanese woman up so that her feet were just off the ground and was facing away from the trail. To the unfortunate Makita Namuri he went over and slit his throat to make sure that the senior student didn't interrupt the surprise that Fukushima had in store for the American.
XX
The American slowly approached, noting one figure ahead lit by an oil lamp. 'What the...', Ron almost spoke when he saw the red headed form who looked suspiciously like someone he knew very well.
"KP!.", Ron hissed to himself as he cautiously approached the figure wearing a dress.
(Stop right there. To get your little 'sweetheart' you must do battle with me. Your life for Kim Possible's. What do you say?), a figure appeared from a shadow.
(This is dishonorable. There is no way Sensei would allow an innocent to be put in harm's way during an exercise.), Ron spoke lowly.
(Do you think not? Over the years he has sacrificed many that have served their purpose, what makes you think that the red head will have a better fate?), the figure taunted and drew his katana.
(You know who I am, who am I going to kill evil one?), the American teen hissed.
(You do not know me gaijin? I am surprised at you. And how are you going to kill me, you have a dull weapon while I do not. Your head will part from your shoulders and my honor will be regained for my family.)
(Fukushima?), Ron hissed as he drew his sword, knowing that the disgraced student had the advantage and that there was a very good chance that Kim Possible was going to be looking for a new boyfriend soon.
(You have just as good of a chance as if you had drawn a feather instead of steel, I will make this quick so that I can make off with my prize, I mean your head.), the ninja began to laugh not knowing nor caring the amount of training the American teen had received over the summer.
(Do you still wear women's clothes to cause enjoyment to your masters evil one?), Ron chuckled hoping to make his foe mad and trying to get him to strike before he was ready.
(You young bitch, I will gut you before I take your head.), Fukushima screamed at the insult as he began to strike without purpose.
Ron for his part parried and avoided knowing that his foe was both much better and was using a high quality sharp weapon of the best kind. (Sure you will. Is that before or after your entertain the other men in the bath house like a geisha?)
The American spun around and blocked the sharp sword again then played his gambit striking at Fukushima's weapon breaking his own in the process.
(Now I have you gaijin, do you want to see it coming, or close your eyes. You will be in the afterworld with the kami before you know it.), the former student laughed noticing Yori was waking up, (Or should I just kill your precious Yori first, then you will die disgraced and I will be finished with both of you, afterward I will take your Kim Possible as my play toy until I tire of her.)
Ron smiled and held out his right hand. (Lotus Blade.), he commanded hoping it would answer his call.
Immediately with a loud screech the brightly glowing blue Katana appeared in the teen's hand hissing loudly.
(Hey Fukuhead...guess who's here?And it looks sorta pissed off.), Ron laughed as his eyes began to glow as he seemed to grow in stature.
(How?)
(I'm its Master, not you, not Fiske...just little ole me. And now I'm pissed. It's time for Fukushima sushi.), Ron rushed forward the legendary blade's path formed an arc while Fukushima tried to block the slash that shattered the disgraced ninja's weapon upon impact.
Ron slashed seven more times before the disgraced student fell in twelve pieces on the ground in under two seconds. The American teen showed just what he was made of when he righted the dying body of one of Yamanouchi's most promising ninjas in a hundred years before he swung again one last time saving his battle foe anymore pain. Ron picked up the head of the former Yamanouchi student by his top knot so that he could look around one more time before darkness claimed him. After the eyes glazed over Ron calmly placed the head on the ground and in a moment he was at Yori's side. Her eyes wide in awe, she had watched the battle once she regained consciousness.
(That was well done; you were able to call the blade when you needed it. Thank you for your assistance both in saving me and ridding Yamanouchi of a very dangerous man.), Yori told him.
(Taking a life does no one honor Yori-san, but him losing his life was better than you losing yours and KP becoming his slave.), Ron frowned as he set her down on her feet. He held her with his bloody left arm as he cut the rope that held the senior student up.
(We must check on Makita.), Yori urged, (He was supposed to be the last one you fought.).
Ron began to look around, (There.), the blond called to his friend.
(I am sorry I wasn't faster Makita.), Ron stated as he knelt down and closed the eyes of the staring, but dead ninja. Yori bowed her head as she silently said goodbye to her longtime friend.
XXX
"RON!", Kim Possible cried out as she sat up in bed trembling.
In a few moments there was another red head in the room with her, "Kimberly are you all right?", Anne Possible asked as she grabbed for her daughter.
"Ron.", Kim gasps breathlessly.
"It was a dream honey, I'm sure Ronald is alright.", her mother told her with confidence, "Anyway you can call him a little later. Now do you want something to help you sleep?"
"No Mom, I think I just had a nightmare about Ron, you're right.", she touched her pendant and smiled softly, "I'm sure he's alright."
"Are you sure honey? We could call Ronald on your gizmo thing."
"Yeah Mom, I musta ate some of my own cooking. Ronnie's gonna call me after he gets home, it's only going to be another day or so.", Kim reassured her Mother since he had called her earlier in the evening not wanting to bother him if he was busy.
Anne shuddered at the thought of anyone eating Kim Possible's cooking, "Are you sure you don't want some antacids then?"
"Mommmm, I'm alright."
"I'm sure you are honey. Good night."
"Good night Mom."
XXX
Sensei looked at the now cleaned and kneeling young man in front of him, (Please rise Stoppable-san and call the Lotus Blade to you.)
With questioning eyes the American Teen held out his hand and called almost under his breath, (Lotus Blade.)
(It is as we believed; you are the Chosen One of destiny Stoppable-san. I will train you tomorrow on how to change the weapon to serve different uses. Please return it to its case until morning.)
(It is my honor Sensei.), Ron replied not really understanding what was happening, (Lotus Blade, go home.)
In a flash and a loud pop the mystical weapon disappeared.
(Please follow me to my study Stoppable-san, some things have happened and we need to get to the bottom of this without prying eyes.), he told the American as he bowed and turned to leave the small arena where the ceremony had just concluded.
Following the white haired man to his own quarters and removing his footwear as the others did Ron waited for the others to sit before he did.
(Stoppable-san today you have killed, I hope Fukushimawas your first victim. Though unauthorized, the action was needed to save Yori-san's life and to avenge the honor of Makita and Yamanouchi. The disgraced one's pyre is now being built, although I am saving the head…..I can use a new trophy in my study, and his will serve as an example of what happens when one disgraces the school. But now I and Yamanouchi are now in your debt again.), Sensei stated, (An honorable warrior feels the weight of the souls he harvests, even those who have no worth.)
(Sigh, I did not have much choice Master...when I did it I felt cold inside. I wonder why Yori was wearing a red wig though, for a moment when I came upon the scene I thought that Fukushima had KP.), Ron said.
(That part of the exercise was to have Makita attack me and you intervene Stoppable-san.), Yori told him, (Fukushima put the false hair on me while I was unconscious. If his plan was to make you rush in and lose your calm...he failed in his purpose.)
(He DID upset me; somehow he knew who I was and where I was going to be. He knew that my sword was dulled as well. I would say that our unlamented friend had informants inside the walls of Yamanouchi.), Ron stated, as it was obvious to him and now them.
(So it seems. You have applied your lessons well Stoppable-san Master Umestsu has trained you very well.), Sensei smiled, (Now is the time for rest. Tomorrow after breakfast meet me on the training ground. We have only a couple of days remaining until your return, but this time you will be returning with some things from Yamanouchi, one for Miss Possible and the rest for you to aid your training. Good night Stoppable-san and rest well tomorrow will be very intense.), Sensei got up and bowed motioning the rest to do the same.
XX
"KP, hi honey.", Ron spoke into the Kimmunicator two days after the exercise.
"Hi honey, are you home?"
"No, I'll be taking off tomorrow night. So I'll be back in sometime next forever.", Ron lightly chuckled.
"Did you learn much?", Kim asked softly.
"Yeah I learned some history and more of the language...you'll never believe this, but I actually wrote some poetry. It didn't even suck that bad."
"You did? Can I see it?"
"Yeah, can you read Kanji?"
"No, but Wade can interpret it. I'll bet he has some sort of program that can do that on his computers somewhere.", the red head teased.
"Sigh, yeah I guess. I'll read some of it for ya when you get home KP, I love you so much.", Ron promised.
"I miss you.", Kim confessed in a small voice.
"Same here, it's been so long."
"I had a nightmare about you.", she told him.
"Oh? I'm telling you that I didn't do anything with that Yori girl, she wasn't even here the whole time I was.", Ron told her remembering her concern for the female ninja.
"You had better not, anyway I thought you were in danger, but it must have been some of my own cooking.", she replied.
"I thought we had a deal you weren't supposed to eat your cooking. It's only to be used to gain confessions from villains.", Ron laughed again making light of her fears.
"Ronnn, you're losing your points.", she informed him.
XXX
Flight JAL 2691:
Ron rubbed the new 'watch' on his wrist to get him used to having something on his wrist, 'I wonder how I was able to make it through security though this really doesn't count as a weapon? Anyway Sensei is sending the rest of the articles by freight...well except for the special thing for KP, I hope she likes it.', the blond mused as he thought about the pull the Master of the Ninja school had with some companies to get the token for his love.
The blond teen looked over his shoulder to make sure that the person behind him had plenty of room before tilting his seat back to get some sleep. Before Ron went to sleep he could hear the soft snores of his pink rodent buddy who had already passed into slumber.
X
Middleton Airport:
The tall blond woman told her husband, "Dean I see him, he's coming this way."
"That's good honey, I'll help him with his bags.", the short pudgy middle aged man replied.
"Mom, Dad.", Ron Stoppable called out as he spotted them and waved.
In a few moments Barb Stoppable was hugging her son for dear life. Dean tried to lift the duffle bag that Ron brought back. "Ooofff, what do you have in there son, a barbell set?"
"Nah Dad, just some clothes and some souvenirs that I picked up in Japan. Not much at all.", Ron chuckled then he showed the other bag he had, "I have something for KP that's the only one of its kind."
"Oh what did you get Kimberly Ronald?", Barb asked.
"A one of a kind Cuddlebuddy, with a certificate of authenticity from the chairman...I mean chairwoman of the board. The Headmaster of the school knows her and asked if they could make KP something special.", Ron explained.
"What is it?", Dean asked knowing how valuable some of the plush toys were.
"It's a Platamonkey. So a duckbilled platypus and monkey.", Ron informed them.
"And just how many did they make?", Dean asked.
"One and the papers say that it belongs to KP, so it's one of a kind.", Ron smiled.
"As much as she loves those things she might want to keep it in a vault.", Dean suggested.
Ron didn't tell his parents that his girlfriend already had a secure place where she kept some of Wade's more exotic gadgets when he answered, "Yeah I guess we'd better do that, come on let's go home. I want to catch up with all the gossip."
Barb glanced at her son as they walked to the parking deck, "Honey did you have a growth spurt in Japan. You look like you gained a couple of inches and gained some weight."
"I uh don't think I did, I mean I don't feel any different though I guess my clothes are fitting a little tighter.", the teen replied.
"You are right Ronald, but your clothes were so loose before, they look better on you now."
"Thanks Mom."
X
They were mostly quiet as they returned to the car for the drive.
As they drove home they passed the high school, "Ah as much as I hate high school Mom and Dad, I sure miss it. Looks like some of the football players are working out, maybe tomorrow I'll get with some of them and see how I do."
"Are you sure you want to play a violent game like football Ronald, all those boys are big and strong.", Barb replied from the front seat, "and even though you look bigger I think you'll look a dwarf to them."
"Yeah I think I want to, since I was bounced off the cheer squad as mascot I feel I need to do something to be a thorn in Bonnie Roachwaller...ooops I mean Bonnie Rockwaller's side. Otherwise it'll be a wasted year.", the blond teen snorted.
"You know that isn't nice to just needle her to death Ronald.", Dean reproached his son.
"Yeah I know, but she's so full of herself and she picks on KP all the time.", Ron told them.
"You know what Rabbi Katz always says...Some people are not worth our time if we have to say bad things about them. It's better you leave that young woman alone.", Barb added.
XX
Later that night:
Ron picked up his Kimmunicator and pushed the connect button. In moments Wade's image came up, "Hey Ron what can I do for you?"
"Wade buddy are you familiar with the term retribution?", Ron asked becoming very serious.
"Uh yeah Ron. What's up?"
"You know those guys that tried to rape KP?"
"Yeah, what do you need to know?"
"I want their bios and I want a ride to each one of their locations, one at a time. Starting with the leader and I want a ride to where he's at.", Ron's left eye began to twitch slightly.
"What are you going to do?"
"I'm not going to kill them if that is what you're concerned about, but I want them to know that KP and her roomie have a protector and I think that the word will spread when I get done with the four. What they tried to do to KP and Sarah needs to have a little more repercussions if you know what I mean.", Ron smiled now.
"I don't think that's a good idea Ron, what if they hurt you?"
"You let me worry about that Wade and promise me nobody finds out, not even KP...OK?"
"Sure Ron, who do you want first?"
"The guy that led the assault buddy. It's good to start at the top and work your way down. I'm gonna educate him about 'stinky finger'."
"OK I can have a ride to your place in about twenty minutes is that good enough?", the genius asked, "What was that comment about a finger?".
"Yep it's good enough, now who is gonna get the snot whipped out of him tonight?", Ron asked then explained himself, "And 'stinky finger' is a term that KP's roommate at the camp used."
"Oh ok. This guy's name is Jerome Banks.", there was the sound of typing, "Oh good he's back on campus. I will have your ride drop you off and while you're in flight I'll have all the data on him I have on file which is quite extensive now that he attacked Kim."
"Good I want pictures of him and no witnesses. So when I get there you might want to sign off for a while Wade. You don't wanna get called into court ya know."
"Yeah I know."
"Now where am I going?", Ron asked smiling now to keep his friend at ease.
"Iowa City our little play boy has been hanging out at bars a bit during the summer...He is twenty-one you know.", Wade explained
I didn't know, but how do you know where he is buddy?", Ron wondered out loud.
"After the attack I started an online surveillance on him and the others. I've done that with others over the years you know. It adds a little extra security.", Wade enlightened him.
"You have? No wonder you're not surprised.", Ron told him as he tightened down his black belt on his pants, "Hey first thing I gotta do is to buy something that makes me out to be a local...Maybe a University sweatshirt? You know something that doesn't say Don Droppable."
Wade snorted in reply, "I think we'll find someplace to get you something, oh their colors are black and gold so sorta stealthy."
"Hey here's the jet, I gotta get on the thing, we're burning moonlight.", Ron laughed as he picked up his pack and left an already prepared note for his parents who were out for the evening.
X
The hover jet that didn't have Global Justice painted all over it:
Over the Kimmunicator the two male members of Team Possible exchanged information. "So it seems this guy has been a thorn in the side of a lot of people and nobody can nail him with anything?", Ron asked incredulously.
"Yeah and I don't think the University is real happy with him either. The girls on their cheerleader and pompom squads usually travel in groups with their boyfriends around in the wings. You know if you think about it this could be considered one of those 'service' projects that Kim likes to do.", Wade replied as he dug further into Jerome's background.
"Oh well good, maybe he and I will get locked in a cell together or something...nah Wade this is just an in and out. By the time I get done they'll know enough not to mess with KP and none of them will remember my face.", the blond chuckles.
"OK Ron, I am getting a current feed of where the target is, looks like he's barhopping.", Wade said.
"After very many it'll be more like bar crawling.", Ron snorted, "Anyway when we get close wake me up, I'm gonna close my eyes...I still have some jet lag."
"Sure Ron, get some shuteye you have about forty-five minutes."
"That'll be enough."
XX
The Stoppable home:
"We're home Ronald.", Barb called out to see if her son was still up.
"Honey there's a note on the table.", Dean told her as he read it.
"Oh he left his cell phone here and is gaming with Felix tonight.", Dean finally finished.
"Maybe his schedule is all messed up and he needs this time to re-charge his brain.", she told him.
"Well I'll put some cheese out for Rufus then. Ronald will be home in a few hours."
"That sounds fine, I'm going to get ready for bed Dear.", Barb replied.
XX
Iowa City:
"Thanks for the lift guys, I owe ya.", Ron called out as the hover jet landed on the top floor of the deserted parking lot.
"Have fun Stumpable, don't chase any of them college girls they're too old for ya.", the co-pilot called back.
"Oh not gonna do that, I have a meeting with some professor on Japanese poetry.", Ron lied not knowing if there even was an expert on campus, "I was having trouble with some of it."
Ron could see the co-pilot nod as he waved. In moments the craft was gone. "OK Wade where's a store?"
"Three blocks to your north and right now your target is about a half a mile away.", Wade returned, "I hope you know what you're doing...Kim's gonna be pissed if she finds out."
"Yeah I know, but you're in this up to your brown ears too so I guess it's in our own best interest if we keep this quiet.", Ron advised hoping his sword master didn't give his friend too much information.
Ten minutes later Ron walked out of the small shop wearing a black sweatshirt with what appeared to be a gold logo on left breast of some kind of bird. "OK where's my target now Wade?"
"Turn left and go three blocks then turn right and go four. He's in a place called Casey's right now and I am hacking into their security...Uh Ron they're carding people before letting them in. What are you going to do?", the Team Possible tech guru nervously asked.
"Go in.", Ron replied.
"How? I said they're carding people, you know for age? That place is a bar….they serve booze."
"Wade don't you think that I don't have fake IDs?"
"Uh...I didn't think of that, sorry.", Wade seemed to turn red which was rather hard for him as he wondered where Ron could have gotten a hold of something like that without him knowing.
As Ron got to the college hangout he pulled the Illinois driver's license his friends at Yamanouchi had made up for him and handed it to the huge college guy who was the bouncer.
"You're new kid. I haven't seen you before."
"Just got in from the University of Illinois and enrolled in a Master's program man..", Ron replied. "What's the cover charge here man.", Ron asked having been drilled to do this automatically.
"Ten bucks and you have the first two beers free. How do you guys over there deal with no mascot?"
"Kinda steep, but until I get to the store and get my own I guess it'll have to do.", Ron passed the two fives over and held out his hand for the stamp that was coming and his license back with a smirk, "They still have a mascot, it's just they have to be politically correct and keep the Chief underground."
"Yeah politically correct, anyway have fun, but look out this can be a rough place."
"I'll be careful mommy.", Ron smiled back and walked inside not telling him what kind of mayhem he was probably going to lay down.
In the space of the next hour Ron had not only gotten close to his target, but after buying the older man a few drinks he was seemingly on his good side as well.
"Come on let's go over to the Galaxy.", Jerome urged to the handful of friends who were with him, "You too Bob." For once Ron was glad that none of them knew his real name.
"Galaxy? I'm kinda new on campus ya know. What do they have there?", Ron asked.
"Girls.", one of the others replied.
"Sounds cool.", Ron told them.
A few minutes later the six young men staggered out of Casey's towards their next stop on the tour.
"Hey this way's a shortcut.", Jerome told them pointing to an alley.
"Sure thing.", Ron replied with a slur in his speech.
The group hadn't gone fifteen yards when one of the young men grabbed Ron. "Alright punk give us all your money, or we're gonna have to beat it out of ya.", a voice growled.
"Huh, what do you mean Lance?", Ron asked as the older and larger person seemed to menace him.
"You got money and we want it.", Jerome clarified as another of Jerome's friends named Nick grabbed Ron's other shoulder.
"You're gonna rob me? Why?", Ron asked in fear.
"We aint robbing you punk, we're just relieving you of some tolls just like in high school.", Nick laughed since he had been a bully and knew that they were all over the world. Nick then slapped Ron across the face and shoved him up against a wall preparing to pound Ron if he didn't give them what they asked for. "Remember high school?"
"Yeah I remember.", Ron gasped as he reached into his pocket to pull out his wallet. "Oooppps.", Ron slurred as he dropped the object on the ground. As Lance reached for the money holding accessory Ron moved slightly and touched Lance's arm which suddenly went numb.
"Ahhh my arm...What did you do prick?", Lance cried out.
"Oh man are you all right?", Ron feigned concern keeping his words slurred. "Hey buddy did you see what happened?", Ron asked Nick as the ninja used his free hand to apply pressure to Nick's wrist until it snapped audibly. Ron also identified Nick as a major threat and stepped on his ankle breaking it as well, causing the larger young man to collapse in agony.
The blond from Middleton then pivoted and front snap kicked Lance in the neck finding three pressure points and stunning him for the next ten minutes.
Jerome watched two of his drinking buddies fall to the obviously younger man not realizing what he was watching. "Jimmy, Davey get him.", the male cheerleader roared, enraged as the three charged the teen who had now pulled a balaclava up to cover his facial features and produced a small piece of aluminum in his hand which only stuck out about six inches.
The now disguised Ron Stoppable spun and whirled as he used the long Hestitan of Yamanouchi's own design to bash Davey in the temple as he missed letting the dazed thug run into a wall knocking him out. Then the blond member of Team Possible thrust the piece of aluminum into Jimmy's solar plexus also dropping him to his knees in a blur.
"Who are you?", Jerome choked seeing four of his large friends down and hurting and now facing the smaller young man by himself.
"A little bit different than trying to rape a friend of mine, isn't it prick.", Ron growled this time, "I'm a lot meaner than Sarah is."
Jerome's eyes widened, "You're a friend of Sarah's?"
"She's got lots of friends, asshole, and you hurt her and her roomie. Now you're going to pay.", Ron misdirected his prey.
Jerome turned to run, but was caught and hauled back into the alley. "Please man, it was that Possible girl's fault, if she would have just put out none of this would have happened."
Ron was beyond pissed. He kicked the college cheerleader in his good knee hard enough to tear a ligament. "So it was Kim Possible's fault huh? Cause she didn't put out?" Ron delivered a hard punch low to Jerome's floating rib on his right side fracturing it... "You know I respect her and I despise rapists. I think they ought to castrate each and every one of them…and I have a knife to do it."
Ron seeing he really had his opponent's attention continues after kneeing him in the 'nads to punctuate the effort, "Now here's how it's going to be from now on Jerome, I'm gonna pay attention to you and your little band of goons here. If I ever find out that you attacked a woman again. I am going to track you down and remove your little friends and cut it off too...without any painkiller. Do you understand me?"
Ron could see him processing the information, "I don't think you believe me buddy."
Ron then dropped the guy who attacked his KP and went over to one of the guys and removed a lighter from his jeans.
The sill irate teen went back to Jerome's side and lit the lighter holding it where Jerome's legs came together.
"I believe you, I believe you.", the college cheerleader cried in agony moments later.
"Yeah I think you do, for your sake you'd better hope you have a good memory 'cause I do.", Ron told him coldly as he punched him in the back of the head then with inspiration hitting his mind the blond teen started breaking fingers after three of them he stopped satisfied he finally got the buff young man's attention or would when he woke up.
Ron exited the dark alley leaving the guys who had attempted to mug him with one last reminder. He kicked each one of them in the face breaking their noses.
As he looked at his watch he muttered to himself, 'Damn seven minutes...too slow.' He quickly walked away from the groaning forms in the alley a few minutes later he pulled out his Kimmunicator and pushed the connect button on it.
"Hey Ron I have a cab on the way, just walk three blocks to your right. He has orders to drop you off at the terminal. I have you on a small plane home from there.", Wade told him.
"Wish I didn't have to do that buddy, but you saw they tried to mug me. So it got more violent than I really wanted.", Ron explained.
"Well I matched their faces, seems that they've been doing this for a while, so you did the community a public service.", the genius replied.
"Good keep an eye on their files; I might have to reinforce the lessons learned tonight. Talk to ya later Wade.", Ron broke the connection.
XXX
OK so I did say that Ron isn't Lilly white didn't I? Remember Zorpox can be a jerk and Ron loves Kim and will just about do anything for her. Not only that but he seems to have overcome his reluctance to mix it up as it were and sometimes gets a little carried away.
While this is going on Kim expresses her feelings about Ron to Nana. The former 'operator' tells Kimmie about her grandfather and how much Phillip was like Ron. I guess we'll just have to wait and see how all this turns out.
Oh the dreaded disclaimer: Kim Possible, Ron Stoppable, Rufus and Wade Load are the property of the Disney Corporation and the show 'Kim Possible' creators and not myself or my badical beta. And neither of us make any coinage from this little writing hobby and it is just for the amusement of us and our readers so there.
We'll see ya down the road,
ST-103