You saw it on KP, Disney owns it.
Thanks to campy, lab1152, Spitfire F.22, mattb3671, Jokerisdaking, charizardag, WhiteLadyoftheRing, userx, ron-sama, warprince2000 for reviewing and to everyone else for reading.
I.
Mr. and Mrs. Stoppable were at the airport to meet Kim and Ron. Ron gave his mother a kiss on the cheek, then enveloped his father in a bear hug, surprising the older man.
Rufus, who had recovered from eating Kim's nacos, sensed that the time for his appearance had arrived. He clambered out of Mrs. Stoppable's bag and onto Ron's shoulder, squeaking "Tah-dah!"
"Rufus!" Ron cried. "I've missed you, little buddy."
Rufus hugged Ron as best he could, given that he had really short arms. The naked mole rat had enjoyed his month with the Possibles, but was looking forward to returning home, living in Ron's room, and not having to be on guard when he ate.
Ron had earlier told Kim that he needed to spend some time with his parents that evening, which she fully understood. As the Stoppables dropped her off at her house, she cheerily said she'd talk to him later.
The three Stoppables and Rufus arrived home and Ron suggested they get some snackage before he filled them in; he had a lot to tell them. He had already decided that if the Lotus Blade was going to be in his parents' home, they needed to know all. He and Sensei had discussed this, and, though Sensei was not enthusiastic about the idea, he had no reply to Ron's observation that if his parents' house was invaded by Monkey Fist and a bunch of monkey ninjas looking for the sword, they had every right to know what all the hoo-hah was about.
Ron was heading off to the kitchen, when, much to his surprise, his father said that while they would love to hear all about their son's month in Japan and that they had some good news to share with him, there was something they needed him to do first.
"Go to the garage, Son," his father said.
Ron was uneasy and confused. He never did like the garage, the domain of the evil garden gnome. But he was curious and wondered if they'd bought him a new scooter.
When Ron opened the door to the garage, the gnome didn't attack and he didn't find a scooter. Instead, waiting for him was the Ferretmobile. Ron couldn't believe his eyes. He just stared and pointed.
His father, smiling, handed him an envelope, saying, "Here's a note from your friend Mr. North. You've obviously done a fine job as a Sunshine Spreader. We're proud of you."
Ron tore open the envelope and began to read:
Dear FF2,
I wanted to do this sooner, but Farnsworth and I were on the convention circuit and then you left for Japan. That, however, allows me to surprise you.
I decided the Ferretmobile should be with someone who would know how to enjoy it; please treat it like your own car.
This is my way of properly thanking you for showing me so much kindness since that day you first came to visit. You literally changed my life.
You and Ferret Girl are always welcome in the Ferret Hole.
I hope you enjoy ferreting out evil!
FF1
Ron was still shocked. "This – is – so – cool," he finally stammered.
His father encouraged him to look on the driver's seat. There was the Fearless Ferret suit, the matching one for Wonder Weasel and an envelope, this one bearing Kim's handwriting. Inside was a note that simply said, Put on the suits and pick me up as soon as you can.
Ron looked at his parents. He had planned on spending this first evening home with them; they could see he was torn. They smiled, already aware that somehow their son had undergone some profound changes over the past month; the boy who had left in a funk had returned more of a man, more attuned to his responsibilities.
"Ron," his mother said, "I don't think you should keep Kimberly waiting. I hear she has a wicked left-hook."
Ron hugged his parents again, grabbed the costume, ran inside the house, suited up ran back to the garage and hopped into the car. He roared off to Kim's, and was pulling the Ferretmobile into the Possible's driveway in no time. He was too happy to be self-conscious about the get-up he was wearing and happily strode to the front door with Rufus on his shoulder. Ron rang the bell.
Mrs. Dr. P. answered. As if nothing was unusual, she said, "Good evening Fearless Ferret. I think someone is expecting you." In reality, she was barely able to keep herself from breaking into uncontrolled laughter.
Ron didn't have to wait long before he received the second surprise of the evening. There at the top of the stairs, stood Kim, wearing a modified Ferret Girl costume. She smiled, came down, and kissed Ron. "Ready to ferret out evil?" she asked.
Ron looked at Kim and admired her costume. "Like the miniskirt and boots, KP! And the crop top is a nice touch."
She smiled impishly, and whispered in his ear, "Don't let Dad hear that or I'll need the Ferret Rocket Ship to bring you back from deep space!"
They headed outside, finding Mr. Dr. P. and the tweebs looking at the car. "This is outstanding!" Kim's dad said. "I loved this show. A darned shame they canceled it after only two seasons." Mr. D. P. leaned over to Ron, and speaking behind his hand, asked, "So, Ronald, uh, Fearless Ferret, you think I can take it for a spin?"
Jim and Tim also wanted to go for a ride.
"Why does Kim get to go first?" Jim asked.
"Yeah, she doesn't even like TV Trash Heap! She always wants to watch Pals." Jim chimed in.
"Oh, I'm feeling moopy today!" The twins said in unison, rolling their eyes.
Ron, striking his best ferrety pose, said, "Fear not, good citizens, everyone will get a turn. But first Ferret Girl and I must find and ferret out evil!"
Kim covered her mouth, trying to stifle her giggles, while Rufus made clear his displeasure at not being mentioned.
Ron noticed how miffed his little friend was and said, "My bad, Wonder Weasel. Evil will cower before you!"
Rufus was mollified.
Ron backed the car out of the driveway and headed into the center of town. People cheered as they saw the car speed down the streets of Middleton. Kim still didn't get the whole super hero secret identity thing, but she knew she had a very happy Ron beside her. And, she had to admit, she was having a blast.
"So, Kim, I noticed you, uh, updated the uniform," Ron observed.
"Ron, it was so sixties," she said with a roll of her eyes. Then, smiling, she added, "I hope you like it."
"Like it? I'm lovin' it. Though I noticed you're packing." Kim's had slipped her hair dryer grappler into a utility belt that she'd made to match the costume.
"Well, you've got all that ferret gear, so I thought I should have gadgets, too." Kim crossed her arms and frowned. "I so hope I'm not just your sidekick, here only to provide glamour."
"Sorry, KP," Ron replied. "Wonder Weasel here has officially booked the sidekick role …"
Rufus squeaked an emphatic, "Uh-huh."
"… You'll just have to settle for being my full-time partner." Ron then looked over to Kim and added, "That you do provide glamour on the side is yet more proof that the Rondo is one lucky dude."
"You know, 'Rondo', you're getting pretty smooth," Kim, arching an eyebrow, observed.
"Hey, I'm am what I is!" he said enthusiastically.
Kim smiled warmly at her goofy boyfriend, happy that he was indeed what he was.
II.
Shego looked across the candlelit table at her dinner companion. He was smart, witty, had great hair and was a very sharp dresser. He owned a very successful business. And he wasn't threatened by her; in fact, he responded positively to her strong personality, to her drive to succeed. He was happy to sit and listen to her talk about her plans for the future. This was so much better in so many ways than eating a microwaved meal in one of Dr. D's out-of-the-way lairs.
The man looked at the woman across from him with admiration. Intelligent, beautiful, gutsy, and wickedly clever. Jack Hench was a very, very satisfied man.
III.
The Kimmunicator chirped.
"What's the sitch, Wade?" Kim asked.
"You off to a costume party or something?" he asked.
"Of course not, Wade. The Fearless Ferret and I are ferreting out evil," Kim replied with a giggle.
"Oh-kay, whatever you say." Wade sensed what was going on. He knew this was some sort of weird dating thing for Kim and Ron. He cared deeply about his two friends, but he was still at the age where the sappiness of two people newly in love could turn his stomach. "You and Ron, I mean the Fearless Ferret, up for some real evil?"
"Count me in, KP, uh FG!" Ron chimed in.
Wade groaned. "Okay caped crusaders. A break-in has been reported at the Middleton Diamond Exchange. The jeweler said they have a 75 carat diamond in the safe. Kim, uh Ferret Girl, would you like me to send you the address and a building plan?"
"Please and thank you," Kim responded.
Ron drove to the location provided by Wade, pulling the car up next to the building. He popped the canopy and he and Kim vaulted out of the car.
"Uh, KP, one ground rule," Ron said in a serious voice.
Kim looked at Ron, curious.
"Ferret Girl is in charge. 21st century and all that." Ron was smart enough to know that despite his time at Yamanuchi, Kim was by far the more competent of the two in the field.
Kim smiled sweetly at Ron in return. "You rock, Fearless Ferret. Now here's what I think we should do …"
Kim and Ron shot the grappler and Ferret Claw, respectively, into the air. The hooks latched onto the cornice of the building. They pulled the ropes taut, making sure the lines were secure. Then they began climbing. Ron had to restrain himself from humming the Fearless Ferret theme song. Rufus stayed in Ron's pocket, ready to appear at a moment's notice.
Kim and Ron reached the top of the building and hoisted themselves over the edge. There was a door on the roof top; it was locked, but a crack in the casing was large enough to allow Rufus in. He unlocked the entrance.
Kim and Ron quietly made their way down to the seventh floor. There was a light shining in the offices of the Diamond Exchange. As the two teens exchanged a look, Kim thought, either it's a trap or we're dealing with amateurs. Hope for the latter, assume the former.
"Ron, did you learn any stealthy door opening ninja moves in Japan?" she asked.
Ron gave Kim the thumbs up and opened the door. Kim rolled in, with Ron covering her.
The robbers were taken by surprise. But what advantage Kim and Ron gained was almost negated by their shock when they saw who the culprits were – six of Drakken's henchmen, dressed in their trademark wraparound sunglasses and red body suits. They were holding sacks full of jewelry and had just broken into the safe, where the most valuable prize lay.
"Okay, wait a minute," Ron said. "What are a bunch of synthodudes doing here? I thought Drakken was dead."
"We're not synthodudes," one of the thieves said in a doltish fashion.
"And we're not synthodrones, either" another added. "We're the guys that got laid off when Dr. D decided he could mass-produce his henchmen. We have to make a living, you know."
"Gotcha," Ron acknowleged.
Kim watched the exchange with bemused fascination until one of the henchmen looked at her and said. "Haven't I seen you on TV? Aren't you, like a sidekick?"
That didn't sit well with her.
Simultaneously, Kim growled, "I don't do sidekick" while Ron said, "Hey, hey, she's not a sidekick, she's a partner." Ron's comment made Kim feel much better, putting a spring in her step as she did a double flip, landing in front of the thug by the safe. She decked him with a karate chop. Ron quickly took on another criminal, pivoting on his right leg and kicking out with his left. The other four went down just as quickly. Rufus retrieved the diamond, struggling under its weight as he carried it to Kim; the naked mole rat was proud that Wonder Weasel had played a part.
Kim thanked Rufus, then looked at the fallen henchmen and shook her head. "That was too easy. No wonder Drakken turned to synthodrones."
By the time Kim and Ron had tied up the would-be jewel thieves and called the police, the news trucks had already arrived. The possibility that the Fearless Ferret was real was too good to pass up. Ron, however, had taken to heart the first lesson he was taught by Timothy North: preserve the mystique. He and Kim waved silently at the camera crews and drove off.
The Possibles watched with pleasure. "I'm glad Kimmie is cutting loose," her mother said. Her father replied, "We sure didn't dress up as super heroes and chase bad guys when were their age."
The Stoppable watched with amusement. "Ron really does take after his old man, doesn't he?" his father asked. "Whatever you say dear," was Mrs. Stoppable's response.
Timothy North took pride in his protégé. "Nice work, FF2," he said to the TV.
Bonnie, who happened to see the news, was sure it was Kim and Ron she was watching. Kim is so weird, she thought. Running around in that outfit. She is such the loser.
IV.
Ron walked Kim to the front door, and before he kissed her goodnight, told her how much he appreciated what she'd done that evening. Coming to Japan to save him was one thing; dressing up as Ferret Girl really spoke volumes about how the depths of her feelings.
"No big, Ron," she said affectionately.
"No, it is big, KP," Ron said seriously. "Which is why I want you to set aside the last weekend before school starts for the Kimday."
"Kimday?" she asked.
"Yeah, Kimday. It's a day devoted to things Kim loves to do. But it's gonna be so big that it'll require 48 hours. Two days filled with Kimmitude. And it's going to be a surprise. So don't even think of trying the puppy dog pout, because I'm not gonna blab." Ron still had to think about what they would do and how he would pay for it. Somehow he'd pull it off.
"I can't wait," she said as she embraced her boyfriend.
V.
After seeing the glowing news accounts of how the Fearless Ferret and Ferret Girl, along with their sidekick Wonder Weasel, had foiled a robbery, Bonnie decided the time had come to act. She had spent too many years in Kim Possible's shadow. It was Bonnie who evaluated Kim when the latter wanted to join the cheer squad; yet it was Kim who was now the captain. That had to change. The proper order of things had to be restored.
Bonnie decided it was time to cut Kim down to size. Bonnie Rockwaller, after all, was an up-and-coming model; Kim Possible was a weirdo who spent her free time messing around with bizarre villains. Bonnie was dating a billionaire Euro-hunk. Kim was still with that loser, Ron Stoppable, though he did seem to be a bit thinner and stronger these days.
Bonnie had already developed a plan. The most satisfying thing she could do would be to split up Kim and Ron. But even she knew the ties there were too strong, though she could still try ways to play Kim. So she would have to do other things. Hurting Kim would be fun. And even without ruining her little romance, there were a number of ways to do that. She planned to begin with the cheer squad.
VI.
The next evening Ron and his parents sat down to talk. He told them all about his Yamanuchi adventures. Despite his years of going on missions with Kim, they were somewhat skeptical about what he said – until he demonstrated his mastery of the Lotus Blade. They were proud of what their son had accomplished and learned, though they confessed a bit of unease. Neither of Ron's parents had foreseen that their son might someday become a ninja master. They had been hoping for a profession a little more mundane, like accounting. Given Ron's past experience with quantitatively-oriented subjects, they should have been relieved about the recent turn of events.
Mr. and Mrs. Stoppable waited for Ron to tell them his stories before they shared their good news with him: he was already receiving royalties from the "Naked Mole Rap" – $90,000 to date to be exact; since being registered, the song was on track to become one of the most downloaded tunes ever. Mr. Stoppable handed Ron a check, explaining that he had thought about some of the things Ron had said before he left for Yamanuchi. Ron just stared at it, then looked at his parents.
"This is badical!" he exclaimed. "The Ron-man is going to show his girlfriend one bon-diggity good time at the end of the summer!"
His parents tried to conceal their looks of concern; they recalled the nacos debacle and feared they had misjudged Ron, but had made a commitment to let him make his own decisions.
He could sense their discomfort. "No need to worry," he said. "I'm going to set a couple of thou' aside for my big weekend with Kim, but I want you to invest the rest for me, Dad, okay?"
Ron's parents were filled with pride – and relief. While they might not be sure of what to make of the fact that their son was now having sword battles with orangutans, he was clearly learning the importance of responsibility.
The trip to Japan had indeed been good for him.
VII.
While Ron and his parents talked, Kim was spending the evening with Monique. They decided to eat at the Middleton House of Pizza, where Ned, formerly of Bueno Nacho, was the new assistant manager. The two young women agreed that the poor guy seemed out of his element. His milieu was clearly Tex-Mex fast food.
"So girl," Monique said enthusiastically, "you looked awesome in that super hero outfit." She then asked slyly, "Did Ron like it?"
"Yeah, he did," Kim said. "To be honest, getting him to talk about things like that; well, he can be shy at times, and …"
"So can you, girl," Monique teased.
Kim blushed. "I know," she conceded, before she began recalling Ron's enthusiastic reaction to her costume – and to the way he put her in charge of the outing. The memories brought a wide smile to the teen hero's face. "Mon, he was just full of compliments. And what was even sweeter was how he insisted that I lead the mission, even thought Fearless Ferret is his thing."
"Ooooh! I have got to find a guy like that!" Monique and Josh had gone on a few dates, but there had been no sparks. She was considering asking out Brick, now that he'd been dumped, yet again, by Bonnie, who was rumored to be dating some mysterious European.
Kim and Monique laughed; Ron as the ideal boyfriend was something that even he would have found amusing just a couple of months ago. But to Kim, that's exactly what he'd become.
VIII.
The fight, which took place a week after Ron returned from Japan, was over something completely inconsequential involving baseball. Kim and Ron had been watching Field of Dreams. Ron watched intently; he knew most of the script by heart, and seemed lost in his own world whenever the actor said, "Build it and they will come." Kim just didn't get it. This is like zen cage bats. It is so not believable, she thought.
They would never be able to say who made the comment that elicited the response that triggered the comeback that led to the snarky riposte. But pretty soon Kim and Ron were engaged in a heated argument and soon they both lost their tempers.
"I'm leaving!" Kim shouted, heading for the front door.
"Fine! Go home." Ron said, sulking on the couch.
Kim fumed as she walked back to her house. Stupid men. Stupid Ron. He yelled at me! He is such the jerk.
Ron scowled as he glared at the television. Stupid women. Stupid Kim. She yelled at me! What a jerk!
Kim returned to an empty house; the rest of her family was out. She was still furious; she stomped up the stairs and changed into her nightclothes. She flopped onto her bed, noticed that she had instinctively put on Ron's red jersey, and instantly burst into tears.
Ron still sat staring at the TV set. I am like the world's biggest loser, he told himself. I think I may have just screwed up the best thing that's every happened to me in my entire life. He was stunned; beginning to feel trapped, he got up, left the house and began walking.
The Drs. Possible and the twins had barely walked through the front door when Kim's mother heard the sound of sobbing coming from upstairs. She exchanged a worried look with her husband, who quickly announced to Jim and Tim that it was time for the Possible men to take a walk. The expression on his face and the tone of his voice dissuaded the boys from making any snide comments.
Ann Possible went up to her daughter's bedroom. She knew her daughter to be brave, resourceful and smart, having, even before graduating from high school, dealt with situations that would be beyond the comprehension of people decades older. Yet Kim was still a teenager, and one who actually had little experience dating, nothing more than a long crush on Josh Mankey and the few days with the synthodrone Eric. Ann knew what few others did – that despite her popularity and involvement at school and in the community, not to mention all the people she had saved over the years, Kim actually had few close friends. Acquaintances, yes, but true friends – there was pretty much Monique, Wade – and, of course, Ron, who was now in a new category. They were the only ones who, at the end of the day, were never bothered by Kim's heroics, who accepted her need to be in charge, and were willing to ignore her faults. Ann was grateful for them – and the fact that she and James had created such a close knit family which could provide a nurturing environment for their unique daughter.
She knew how challenging this new state of affairs must be for Kim. The girl who could do anything was now making herself vulnerable. Ann didn't think that was a bad thing. She knew Kim had been good for Ron in many ways – Mrs. Stoppable, to give one example, couldn't stop raving about Ron's improved grades and attitude towards his work, attributing the change to Kim. But Ann also knew Ron was good for Kim, an always faithful companion who helped her daughter be true to herself, who let her be strong in new and different ways.
Ann Possible had been worried when Kim began talking about food chains in the spring – the girl who said that would never have been secure enough to go out in public dressed as Ferret Girl, and have a good time doing it. Despite all of her achievements, Kim had been peculiarly susceptible to peer opinion; Ron had helped her overcome those insecurities.
Ann Possible poked her head into her daughter's room.
"Kimmie? May I come in?" All Mrs. Dr. P. heard was muffled crying. Ann saw her daughter curled up in a ball, clutching Pandaroo; Kim had buried her face in her pillow.
"Kim, did you and Ron fight?" she asked gently.
Kim nodded yes and her mother sat down besides her, putting a comforting hand on her daughter's shoulder.
Ron was still reeling. If you love her, why did you yell at her, you moron? Rondo, you are such an idiot, he scolded himself as he aimlessly wandered the streets of Middleton.
After a while, Ron approached the playground. James, Tim, and Jim Possible were happening by and they saw Ron before he saw them. His distress was obvious to all three. Dr. Possible looked at his sons and said, "Go play. Just don't blow anything up. You remember what the fire department said the last time …"
"Okay, Dad," the twins said in unison before running to the swings.
"Ronald!" James called out.
Ron turned and saw Kim's father. Great, Ron thought, I'm sure Kim told him about tonight. "Uh hi, Dr. P." he mumbled.
"Ronald, sit down," James said, pointing at the bench. "We need to talk."
Ron felt queasy as he had a flashback. "All I want is for my daughter to be happy," Dr. P. had said the night Ron took Kim on the moodulator-inspired date. He's going to send me to a black hole in deep space.
"Do you want to tell me about it?" Ann asked.
Kim shook her head no, but then between sobs began to explain what happened, at first haltingly and then in a torrent. It was clear that she was now far more upset at the damage she feared may have been caused to her relationship with Ron than she was with whatever sparked the disagreement.
Ann stroked her daughter's hair, and mentally took a deep breath. This was a subject she didn't expect to be broaching this early in Kim's life. Ann Possible had long harbored a secret hope that Kim and Ron would become something more than best friends; she'd long sensed that they had what the other needed to be complete. She just didn't anticipate things unfolding so quickly.
"Kim, you love him, don't you?" she asked.
"Yes, I do," she said sniffling. "I, I don't know how it happened. We spent 12 years as best friends, two and a half months dating and now I love him. And, and now I'm scared I've lost him. If I love him, why did I yell at him?"
"Kim, you probably yelled at him because you love him." Ann Possible looked away for a moment, thinking about the past. "You know I actually broke off the engagement with your father …"
Kim turned to look at her mother; this was news to her.
"… it was maybe a month after he proposed. He was going to take me to dinner for my birthday. Then he calls up to ask if we could do lunch instead, because some rocket scientist was coming to campus. I was furious and I was hurt and I told your father he could have his rocket scientist – and his engagement ring. I actually took it off my finger and put it into his hand. Boy, was he stunned!"
"But you got married …" Kim protested.
"Yes, we did," Ann said. "Because as dumb as I thought your father was at the time, I realized that the man I had fallen in love with was nuts about rockets. It was a package deal; I couldn't have James without the rockets. So I finally called him and we talked and, well, you know the rest of the story."
"So you just forgot about what happened?" Kim asked.
"Oh, no," Ann said, waving her hand. "I already knew I wanted to be a brain surgeon so I made him take me to Cornell, where they have a whole bunch of human brains on display."
"G-ross, Mom" Kim said, making a face, but then smiling. "Way too much information."
"Oh Kim, please. It was sooo cool. They even have one of a murderer named Ruloff. Besides, that's not the point of the story," Ann said, turning serious. "So, Ron's not perfect. Neither are you. You know, there are no perfect people out there, honey. And so what if Ron finds meaning in baseball? Given the number of times you've taken him shopping, have you ever actually asked him how he feels about spending time at Club Banana?"
Ron was terrified. He'd been dating Kim for a little more than two months and now he'd ruined everything. Not only had he lost Kim, he'd angered her father as well. He'd probably turned the whole Possible family against him and, given their abilities, that could be very, very dangerous.
"Son, tell me what happened," James ordered, gently but firmly.
Those weren't the words Ron had expected to hear; it took him a moment to realize that maybe he wasn't going to be sent into space. Hesitantly, he recounted the evening's events. It was clear to Dr. Possible that Ron was far more worried about scaring off his daughter than he was about who was wrong or right.
"Ronald, I'm going to ask you a question and I want a straight answer …" James said, his tone serious.
Ron, terrified, blurted out, "I didn't touch her, I mean I kissed her and held her, but that was all, I promise! Please don't send me into outer space! Please! Please!"
"Ronald, calm down and let me ask my question. Do you love Kim?" her father asked. "I don't mean 'really like her a lot' and I don't mean do you find her really, really attractive. I mean love. Do you love her?"
Ron looked at the older man. "Yessir, I do. Though it probably doesn't matter now, since Kim will probably never want to talk to me again." Ron glumly hung his head, feeling depressed.
James looked at his daughter's boyfriend. He thought it strange that he, and not Mr. Stoppable, was having this conversation with Ronald. But over the years James had come to think of Ronald as a son, and for the first time, wondered whether the day might come when the young man would be a son-in-law. It surprised James Possible that he wasn't panicking at the thought of his daughter being married to Ron; that was a change from the racing heart beat he used to experience when Kim spoke of "hotties."
James proceeded to tell Ron the birthday story and the aftermath. "Uh, Mr. Dr. P., I'm kinda with Mrs. Dr. P. on that one. Even I'm not that thick."
"Ronald, you're right," he agreed. "I did drop the ball. Big time. But we came to understand that the key to a successful relationship was communicating, really listening to each other, and remembering that we were on the same side. You and Kim should understand what it means to be a team better than anyone, I'd think."
"You really think she'll talk to me?" Ron asked hopefully.
"Yes, I do. But a bit of advice. Lay off the baseball for awhile. And maybe take her shopping." James was pleased. Maybe he couldn't give Kim advice about boys, but he sure could give Ron advice about girls.
"Mom, be honest with me," Kim said. "Is it okay that Ron and I love each other. I mean, we've only dated a couple of months and we're not even seniors yet and …"
Ann Possible looked at her daughter fondly. "Kimmie, I guess if I'd planned this, you and I would be talking about your falling in love when you were a few years older. But I'm not going to tell you that you shouldn't love Ron. You two have a very special relationship. You've already shared a lifetime's worth of adventures. And considering the number of times you've almost been blown up and have saved each other, I'm not surprised how intensely and deeply you feel for each other. Besides, he's a fine young man and it's obvious how he feels about you, which means a lot to a mother.
"You know your grandparents were high school sweethearts and they did fine. But you need to be aware that you'll have your work cut out for you. That doesn't mean that Ron isn't "The One." But this is your first real relationship and you'll be learning along the way. It may be tough at times, but trust me, it'll be worth it." Ann Possible then embraced her daughter. "I am so happy I am for you, Kim."
Kim smiled and whispered, "Thanks, Mom," but then began to cry again. She was overwhelmed by her mother's support – yet still felt empty inside. It was one thing to talk about loving Ron. But he wasn't there and she wondered about the depressing possibility that he would remain angry with her.
Kim was distracted from her worries by the cheerful voice of her father. "Hello ladies, I've got a little something for my Kimmie-cub!" Kim was shocked as her father pushed Ron through the door.
Mrs. Dr. P. got up to leave and as she walked past Ron said, "I'll call your parents and tell them you're here. And I'll make up the couch in the den for you."
"Ron," Kim said tearfully.
"Kim," Ron gulped.
They looked at one another, until Ron came over and put his arms around Kim. "I, I'm so sorry Kim. I was a complete jerk. Can you forgive me?"
"Only if you'll forgive me," she countered before asking hesitantly, "Ron, do you still love me?"
Ron looked shocked by the question. He blinked his eyes a couple of times before answering. "'Sha! Of course I love you, KP! And I always will."
The two teens sat up late into the night talking. By the time they were ready to go to sleep, Kim had begun to understand why Ron might see baseball as more than just a game. Though she still wondered why anybody would willingly spend time in the cage bats …
VII.
"This drone satellite, or Drone-Sat as you call it, can be retooled for any number of missions?" Drake asked, looking at a set of schematics. "And as it is currently configured, it can fly to another satellite and perform repairs or run diagnostics?"
"Yes, Mr. Drake," replied the mildly nervous scientist standing before him. Meeting with the new director was like being called to the principal's office: unnerving and potentially humiliating. Sooner or later each researcher received the summons to the corner office on the top floor. Some left rattled, some left unemployed, and a select few left with increased projects budgets. Today, it was Dr. Harris' turn. "As you can imagine, any nation or company with satellites would find the Drone-Sat a very useful and prudent investment. Right now if a satellite goes down, the choice is to write it off or launch an expensive repair mission with a space shuttle. Drone-Sats could do the job at a fraction of the cost."
Drake steepled his fingers and continued to look at the papers before him, then slowly raised his head and stared at the scientist who was standing on the other side of his desk. Drake didn't believe in letting his subordinates sit down. This kept them edgier. "Dr. Harris. Have you considered the possibility that this technology could be used to sabotage or attack other satellites?"
The researcher was shocked. "No! This is peaceful technology."
"Yes. Of course," Drake said, pausing menacingly before he continued. "Five words for you, doctor: James. Timothy. Possible. Hephaestus. Project."
Drake had invoked the name of the Space Center's new scapegoat, its symbol of all-that-could-go-wrong, agitating the researcher, who was visibly uncomfortable. That Harris didn't regret Possible's termination was of little comfort; he'd never liked the man or his family, especially that daughter of his who'd pointed out his toupee, back when he'd still been on the board. He never bought the explanation that her lip was the result of a truth ray. As far as Harris was concerned, Possible's daughter was nothing but a lippy brat.
"Doctor, I'm very concerned about this issue," Drake said. "I don't want us to be caught with our pants down a second time. We need to be prepared for any questions, any contingencies should your technology fall into the wrong hands. I'm increasing your budget. Look into every – and I mean every – offensive capability your Drone-Sat has. If there is any way your invention can be used as a weapon, I want to know about it."
IX.
"Hi!" Kim was standing at Ron's front door, a big grin on her face and a large bag in her hand. "What do you think?"
Ron was surprised to see Kim wearing a Middleton Mud Hens jersey and baseball cap. He was having flashbacks to the time she decided to be a gamer, even wearing a Zombie Mayhem t-shirt, so she could spend time playing video games with Felix and him. He had to admit though, the jersey looked way cool on her. "Pretty nice, KP, pretty nice indeed."
She turned her back to Ron, who whistled when he saw the name "Possible" and the number 3, which was her favorite number, embroidered on her shirt.
Ron showed his girlfriend into the Stoppable living room. "So what gives?"
"I told you I had a surprise for tonight. Tah-dah!" she said as she whisked out two tickets, which she handed to Ron.
"Box seats for the Mud Hens …" Ron looked at Kim, appreciation mixed with rampant curiosity. Ever since the fight he'd avoided the topic of baseball, yet here was Kim leading him to hardball heaven.
Wearing her best 'I know what I'm talking about' look, Kim told Ron, "Part of a successful relationship involves supporting each other's interests. You've always been willing to go freak fighting and shopping with me. And while I know you've grown to like going on missions, don't try telling me you enjoy spending time at Club Banana. Tonight I'm taking you to a ball game."
"KP, this is badical. You didn't have to. I mean, we did the Fearless Ferret and everything …"
Kim looked at Ron sternly. "Be quiet. And put these on. Now." She handed him his own jersey, which bore the name Stoppable and the number 4. "Why four, KP?" he asked as he put on his new shirt.
"Because that's how old we were when we met," she said with a smile.
He returned the look and shaking his head, said, "This is just way too cool."
The evening only got better. They enjoyed hot dogs and sodas. Ron taught Kim how to make a rally cap. As if to confirm that it was a special evening, they witnessed the only no-hitter in Mud Hens history. It was a perfect night. Though Ron still couldn't understand why his honor-roll-placing, doomsday-device-defusing, save-the-world girlfriend just could not grasp the infield-fly rule.
X.
Shego was a very happy woman these days. Business was up and her plot was unfolding as planned, which was good, and she actually had a social life, which was very good. Today promised to be especially enjoyable. She had been thinking about her potential protégé for some time now.
Shego knew that Bonnie had discovered her mentor's true identity. She had never entertained any illusions that Junior could keep a secret. But she was wondering how Kimmie's rival would use that information. This would be a good test of the girl's potential. And exam time was in just a few moments.
The intercom buzzer on Shego's desk rang. "Miss Rockwaller is here to see you, Ms. Va," a disembodied, vaguely Mediterranean voice announced.
"Please show her in, would you, Arturo?" Shego thought about her hunky receptionist. She had decided that all of the support staff at the agency would be European beefcake. Being the boss does indeed have its perks, she thought.
Shego rose to greet her guest as Bonnie was shown into the office. "Hello, Bonnie, would you like some water or tea?"
"No, thank you, Ella," Bonnie replied graciously. Good, thought Shego, she's playing it cool so far. But I hope I get to play her a little, teensy, weensy, bit. That would be soo much fun.
The two women talked about an idea for an upcoming photo shoot that Ella had been considering, then discussed the next steps in Bonnie's training as a fashion model. Shego noticed that the young woman was beginning to fidget. Here it comes, Shego thought, She's about to lay whatever she has in mind on me.
"Ella, I'd like to ask a favor of you …" Bonnie spoke with a fair measure of confidence.
Not bad for someone who, I bet, is about to blackmail me, Shego thought before responding. "Yes?"
"I thought it would be nice if my cheer squad could get new uniforms this year," Bonnie said. "Something from one of the designers you work with. We could be a showcase for teen fashions."
This has something to do with Kimmie, I know it, Shego thought. So I like it. But I have to have my fun first.
"No." she said flatly.
Bonnie was stunned. "Ella" had never refused her anything so far, nor had she spoken to her so curtly. But rather than be held down, Bonnie got up and pushed back.
"I don't mean to be rude, especially given all you've done for me already, but 'No' isn't an acceptable answer, Ella." Bonnie practically drew her breath as she finished her sentence. "Or should I say Shego."
Shego smiled condescendingly at Bonnie as she clapped. "Bravo! Bonnie knows who I am!" Shego's smile was then replaced with a scowl. "And what is she going to do about it?" At this point, Shego did something that she had not done for weeks – she used her glow power. She didn't throw any bolts of energy, but she let her hands be enveloped by green plasma, which definitely caught Bonnie's attention.
"You didn't think I didn't know that Junior would have told all by now, do you? Shego said, an edge to her voice. "He's a sweet guy, but a few yards short of the full mile in the IQ department.
"But the question now Bonnie is: what do I do with you? You know who I am, which is a threat to my safety. And you just tried to blackmail me, which is either offensive, given what I've done for you, or amusing, since all you've asked for is some clothes for your posse, I'm really not sure which."
Shego sneered and let Bonnie squirm before saying coldly, "I should probably just kill you."
Bonnie was terrified. She hadn't expected things to unfold this way. But much to her surprise, she was also excited. She was feeling an adrenaline rush unlike any she'd ever known before. Bonnie did her best to maintain her composure.
Shego was watching her closely. "Yes, I'll kill you …
XI.
James Possible was growing frustrated. He was surprised by the extant of the fallout from the Hephaestus Project; Drake must have worked overtime to blacken his reputation. None of the research institutes to which he applied for a job would hire him, despite his many accomplishments and previously stellar reputation as one of the world's top rocket scientists. Now he was "Mr. Hephaestus." He had been hopeful about landing a position at the College. Prof. Hinckley had even gone to bat for him, but the administration was concerned about maintaining the school's relationship with the Space Center and didn't want to offend Andrew Drake. He thought they were craven, but couldn't blame them in the end.
So here he was, sitting in the Administration Office at Middleton High School, waiting to interview for a position as a physics teacher. James was thinking how fortunate he was to have met Rabbi Katz. The two men had taken to sparring a few times each week; it helped James deal with his stress. When the rabbi had heard of the opening at the school, he told his new friend.
Steve Barkin came to the reception area and extended his hand, "Dr. Possible, please come in."
The two men talked. Barkin was convinced that Possible had been shafted. Barkin would never admit it, but he felt gratitude towards Possible's daughter for all she had done for his favorite student. Yes, Steve Barkin, who had developed an animus towards Ron Stoppable when the boy was in 9th grade, had become fond of the young man. They had shared some strange adventures over the years, Ron had shown the right spirit with the Pixies, and now the kid was busting his gut to improve himself, both physically and academically. Barkin liked that kind of grit. And he was sure that it was Kim Possible who had inspired her boyfriend to seize the day. So this was a way to express his thanks. That and he knew he'd never again have the chance to hire someone of the scientist's caliber to teach at the school.
"Here's the deal, Dr. Possible," Barkin explained. "I want to hire you as the soccer coach. That way we can work around the whole teacher's union question. You'll teach physics. And probably some other things too, maybe English composition and Latin. Your daughter may have told you that we're a bit shorthanded around here …"
It had occurred to James that Kim never really spoke of any of her teachers other than Mr. Barkin.
"… Interested?"
For James Possible, 'interested' was a huge understatement. This opportunity was a lifeline, a chance to do something useful and not just sit around the house, mourning the loss of everything he held dear in his professional life.
"Yes, I am," James answered.
"Good. Then welcome aboard," Barkin said, grinning and once again shaking Dr. Possible's hand who could only think how grateful he was his mother had insisted he learn Latin …
XII.
"… Yes, an unfortunate accident involving alcohol and the pool – that would be a plausible explanation for your untimely death.
"And, no, there is not going to be some cockamamie scheme involving countdowns and elaborate traps, giving you the opportunity to escape. I am, after all, no longer formally a villain so I don't have to observe all the niceties." Shego paused. It was time for the cat to lunge at the mouse and see how the smaller animal reacted.
Bonnie wasn't sure what to say. The whole situation was whacked. Then again, this woman was Kim Possible's arch-foe, a woman who had participated in scores of take-over-the-world schemes. Wait a minute … she thought.
Bonnie's fear was replaced with a white-hot anger born of an extremely over-developed ego.
"You never killed Kim Possible, but you're going to kill me! That is, like, so ferociously unfair. I never even tried to stop one of your plots. If you're going to kill me, go kill Kim first." Bonnie couldn't believe she had just said that. But surprising herself, while she didn't actually want Kim to die, she realized she liked the idea of not just hurting her, but making her suffer.
Shego was fascinated. My little cheerleader is indeed a bad apple! She has potential. Lots of hate. And lots of confidence. She's not begging. She's complaining, but not begging. And she's still telling me what to do. She IS cocky.
"Okay, Bonnie, tell me why I shouldn't kill you." Shego said in the most reasonable of tones, as if she was seeking the younger woman's advice on which shoes to wear. Time for you to decide, Bonnie, Shego thought. What's it gonna be? You ready to run with the big dogs?
A part of Bonnie's brain was telling her that this was an insane conversation to be having. But another part, louder and insistent, argued otherwise. People say you're mean? Then be mean. They say you bully them? Then bully them. You've been told you manipulate people? Then manipulate them. Make a deal with Shego. She's got things you want – clothes, money and nice things. And you can offer her something she wants – a way to get at Kim Possible.
"You should let me be your, like, villain intern. I can help you put Kim Possible in her place, once and for all. Humiliate her. Make her suffer. I even have a way to start doing that …" Bonnie told Shego about her ideas for the cheer squad and how the new uniforms she'd asked for would play a role in her plans.
Shego narrowed her eyes, then smiled. "You're on, cheerleader. Just remember. There's no turning back. You sure you're ready to be evil?"
Bonnie sat quietly. A wicked smile spread across the teen's face. "Yes. I am so ready."
XIII.
Kim was receiving a full-body massage at the Middleton Spa, reflecting on her Kimday so far. Ron had outdone himself. The surprise breakfast the day before, which included a menu of events for the weekend; the Cuddle Buddy exhibit at the Middleton Museum, where in Ron's company and her excitement at seeing a Flamingoat and Pandaroo Super Star Edition she forgot her embarrassment about being a "Cuddler"; the dinner at Chez Henri, Middleton's finest restaurant – and the skydiving. That had really caught her by surprise, since that was the one thing not included in the schedule Ron provided. When he said, "Next stop: Sky diving," she was sure she had misheard him.
"I thought you hated freefalling?" Kim observed.
"Uh KP, didn't somebody give me a lecture about doing things the other person enjoys before taking me to the best baseball game of my entire life?" Ron replied. "This is payback time. Besides, you're not really going to pass up the chance to jump without having to worry about rushing into some bad guy's lair at the other end, are you?"
Kim climbed aboard the plane before Ron could chicken out.
She saw how brave he was trying to be as they held hands and rode the thermals and loved him for it. Ron returned the feeling in equal measure when Kim said it was time to pull their rip cords.
Ron had left her at the spa to get what he called the "Full Girlie Treatment" while he went home to prepare a special dinner; he would pick her up in a few hours.
He had just walked through the door of the Stoppable house when the Kimmunicator chirped. Ron insisted that Kim hand it over before she went in to the spa. A massage wouldn't be relaxing if she had to spring up and fight evil. He insisted that local, state, federal authorities, GJ, and the US Marine Corps could let her have a few hours to herself.
"Hi Wade, what's up?" he asked.
"Uh, where's Kim?" Wade replied, surprised to see Ron.
"Off duty," Ron explained. "Someone needs help, they get me or they call 911."
Wade had never said anything, but he'd quietly observed Ron's growing confidence and abilities over the past few months, especially since Ron and Kim began dating and he spent that time in Japan. Maybe it's time for Ron to go on a solo mission, he thought.
"I think we'll go with you," Wade said. "Half of Team Possible is better than none."
"Thanks, I think," Ron said acidly.
"Chill out, Ron," Wade countered. "That was meant to be a compliment."
"Sorry, Wade," Ron said apologetically. "Sometimes I still think in "goofy sidekick" mode; you try getting used to be Kim Possible's partner. It's a big job. So, what's going down?"
Wade, now smiling, answered, "Break in at the Middleton Museum. Security camera shows a ninja heading for the Asian Statuary Hall."
"Let me guess. Tempus Simia," Ron offered, knitting his brow.
"Uh, you're right. But how did you know that?" a surprised Wade asked.
Because, my friend, it is my fate in life that all things monkey exist to vex me, Ron thought before saying, "Long story. Someday I'll tell you the whole tale. Might even be worth your while to come out and hear it in person!"
Ron ended the call, ran up to his room, put on his ninja gear and grabbed the Lotus Blade. He really wanted to get this over with; he planned to make some tagliatelle by hand.
The museum director and security officials were waiting at the front door. Museum patrons filled the parking lot. Some were leaving, others hoping to see something interesting. The sight of another ninja seemed to satisfy the visitors, but made the security men tense up and point guns at him.
"Whoa!" Ron called out, holding up his hands. "I'm the good guy! Don't shoot!"
"We called Kim Possible. Who are you?" asked the director.
"Uh, I'm from the ninja division," Ron said.
"Got it. We think he's after the Tempus …"
"… Simia," Ron interjected. That he knew what was at risk reassured the official. "I'm going in."
Ron stealthily and quickly made his way to the Asian Statuary Hall. The ninja had just finished disabling the security systems and was removing the statue from its pedestal when Ron confronted the intruder. He'd expected Monkey Fist, but the thief clearly did not have genetically modified hands and feet.
"Put it back, ninjaboy!" Ron ordered.
Ron's voice startled the thief. Without thinking, the intruder exclaimed, "Outsider!"
"Fukushima?" Ron was momentarily startled, but quickly regained his composure. "Uh, dude, this is my home town in case you didn't know. I think that makes you the outsider."
Fukushima, rounding on Ron, cried out "Enough!" and withdrew his sword from its scabbard and slashed at Ron.
Ron did a backwards somersault, reached behind and taking out the Lotus Blade. The sound of clashing steel reverberated throughout the room.
"Uh, Fukushima, didn't it occur to you that you might do better breaking in at night?" The two fighters circled one another. Ron rolled to his right, then kicked at his opponent.
"The true warrior does not skulk in the night; he acts boldly." Fukushima replied, dodging Ron's attack.
Huh? I thought ninjas were all about moving silently in the night, Ron thought before saying, "Dude, that is so wrong. Were you sleeping in Ninja 101? You really aren't going to get into a good ninja college."
Ron parried a thrust from Fukushima, before going on the offensive.
"Monkey Fist has promised me a glowing letter of reference." He said, fending off a blow from Ron.
"Yeah, but you won't be able to get a transcript from Yamanuchi," Ron said as he ran to the wall, sprung off and landed behind his opponent
"What? How would you know?" Fukushima asked, spinning to face Ron.
"Because I'm the new master," Ron said smugly, "though Sensei's still running the place and …"
Fukushima was outraged by this improbable news; he lunged at Ron, who did a backwards somersault. The two one-time Yamanuchi classmates warily circled one another. Fukushima slashed at Ron, who parried the thrust with the Lotus Blade. Ron was able to catch Fukushima's weapon at the hilt, and pushing upwards, knocked it from his opponent's grip. Ron then pivoted and kicked Fukushima in the stomach, sending him to the floor.
Ron quickly set aside the Lotus Blade and jumped on Fukushima; the two of them grappled until Ron was able to knock out his adversary with an uppercut. Ron then rolled Fukushima over, pinned his arms, and bound them with his opponent's belt. Ron, winded, then retrieved the idol, bowed, and said, "It is my honor to defeat you. Again."
The director and the security officials rushed in, relieved to see that the intruder had been defeated. "Thank you so much," the relieved official said. "How can I thank you, Mr. uh, what is your name?"
"I told you, I'm with Team Possible, ninja division," he said, not wanting to be delayed. "Look, I gotta go. And if you want to thank me, lock this monkey thing up good, okay?"
Ron headed home, hoping to change out of his ninja suit, before picking up Kim; but when he walked through his front door, he found her there, reading the latest issue of Spirit Squad Weekly. Before he could say anything, she spoke.
"You looked good, Ninja Division."
"Uh, thanks. But how …" he stammered, clearly confused.
"Video from the museum security cameras was playing on TV," she explained. "Sound and all. You know, I never get to appreciate the jokes you crack when we're fighting. Anyway, I think somebody at the museum decided that fighting ninjas might boost the culture cool factor. The crowd around the set in the spa's reception area sure seemed to support that idea."
Kim looked at Ron, smiled, and continued. "Something told me that my ninja might be delayed in picking me up, so I decided to come here and wait for you." She paused before finishing. "That was really of sweet of you to go in alone so I could enjoy myself, but you could have called me."
"Why? The whole idea of going to a spa is to rest, Kim." Ron paused, "Heyyy, I thought you thought I could handle myself!" He looked hurt; he thought he'd proven himself over the last few months, especially in Japan.
Kim sighed. "That's not it, Ron. You know I believe in you. But we're a team. Maybe I just want to help you the way you've always helped me."
"What, you're going to crack lame jokes and drop your pants?"
Kim scowled. "No. Be there by your side through thick and thin, like you've always been by mine. Are you going to tell me if the situation was reversed, you wouldn't feel the same way?" Kim asked, knowing the answer to her own question.
"Well …" Ron said, rubbing the back of his neck and looking sheepish.
Kim, now wearing a satisfied look walked up to Ron and began to push him to the stairs. "Now change out of that get-up and make me my dinner. The Kimday schedule you gave me says I get pasta Kimberly tonight. You've got to get cooking!"
XIV.
Señor Senior, Senior sighed heavily.
Señor Senior's life had been a series of triumphs and successes. With drive, determination, and careful planning he became one of the world's richest men, a billionaire many times over. But for the first time in his life, he was encountering frustration, indeed failure. His late-life turn to villainy, instigated by an overpowering sense of boredom, had not yielded the fruits he had expected. Instead of world domination, he had occasional run-ins with a cheerleader and her sidekick. Instead of ruling the world, he was now trying to protect his fortune from Shego.
Señor Senior had been surprised and frightened by the ease with which she'd gained access to and manipulated his assets. He reluctantly agreed to Shego's request for a meeting, knowing her visit would be costly. But even prepared for extravagant demands, he was still shocked by what Shego wanted: five billion dollars to fund something called the X Institute. He wanted to object, but knew he really had no choice but to comply with her request; she had already demonstrated that she could completely ruin him if she so wished.
He wearily signed the documents that had been brought to him by Hank Perkins, a young lawyer and some-time temp for villains.
XV.
One hundred miles above Middleton, a diligent astronaut did a final check on all of his space station's systems; all appeared to be in order. He could now go to bed. But before turning in for the night, Frederick decided to send a message to his friend Ron.
XVI.
Bonnie was pleased.
She had just completed the last of her meetings with members of the Cheer Squad. Shego had told her to use the expense account, which allowed Bonnie to treat each of her marks to the best lunch in town and a facial. Her arguments about Kim's inability to devote enough time to the squad in light of her "save-the-world" hobby, some snarky remarks about how strange Kim really was – she spent more time fighting freaks than with her peers, her father was a mad scientist – and the offer of what might be the most stylish cheerleading uniforms in the world seemed to win her the support she needed. There were seven cheerleaders plus Ron. She obviously knew that she'd never get Kim's vote and that Stoppable would do anything for her. She would have preferred six of eight votes, but had come to doubt Tara's reliability and so kept her in the dark.
Tara had proved to be a disappointment. The perky blonde, who had been dating Jason Morgan, the star forward of the basketball team, was now rumored to be spending time with Felix Renton, of all people. She clearly did not understand the food chain and was thus suspect.
Bonnie had told her five supporters not to say anything to Kim, Ron, or Tara; she was gratified when they agreed. Bonnie now felt like she had her own posse, even if it was bought. She couldn't wait to see the look on Kim's face when her peers voted to dump her as captain of the squad.
TBC …
Author's notes:
I actually have friends who were indeed engaged after just six weeks; they have been happily married for quite a few years. And, I know a couple of high-school sweethearts who were happily wedded for more than fifty years; only his death brought that marriage to an end. Finally, you really can see human brains at Cornell; they're in the Olin Building …