Epic Sitch Chapter 9, a kim possible fanfic

My thanks to you all of my readers, especially reviewers campy, WhiteLadyoftheRing, RamaFan, ron-sama, warprince2000, mattb3671, and G-Go. Your comments are valued. If you are reading, and haven't reviewed, give it a try. It's easy and costs nothing!

I've never quite gotten the whole song-fic thing, probably because I can't remember lyrics. However, later in this chapter, you will be entertained by none other than Ron Stoppable, who will sing a brand new composition. Be grateful I won't be singing it for you. Any writing talent I may have is most definitely not matched by singing ability …

And, so mouse ear-wearing lawyers don't come looking for me, if you saw it on KP, Disney owns it.

"Good morning, Possible clan!" Ron announced cheerily as he walked into the Possible family kitchen.

"Oh look, it's the celebrity!" Ann Possible said with a friendly grin.

Ron was clearly confused.

James Possible held up that morning's newspaper. The headline screamed "Kung Fu Fighting!" Below was a grainy photograph of Ron taking down Fukushima.

"Outstanding move, Ronald, though I must say you looked even better on TV last night." Mr. Dr. P. began reading from the article: "Ron Stoppable … longtime sidekick to teen hero Kim Possible … newly promoted manager of Team Possible Ninja Division … remarkable skills … Middleton's new scourge of evil."

"Scourge …" Ron said dubiously.

"I like it!" Kim said as she gave Ron a peck on the cheek, before breaking into a giggle fit. In a mock-serious voice, she said: "Ron Stoppable: Scourge-of-evil!"

Ron pouted as Kim teased him. Showily trying to ignore Kim, but with some difficulty, since she had now placed her hand on his knee beneath the table, Ron turned to his girlfriend's father. "So, Mr. Dr. P., you all ready for your first day?"

"To be honest, Ronald," he replied, "I'm a bit nervous. You know, it's been decades since I last had a 'first day back to school'. I hope the kids like me."

"Don't worry, Dad, you'll rock," Kim said reassuringly.

"Thanks Kimmie-cub. I sure hope you're right," he replied.

Kim turned to Ron and said, "C'mon, Scourge. Ready to walk me to school?"

"My pleasure – Kimmie-cub," Ron replied.

Kim gave him a playful whack and the two walked out of the house laughing. They arrived at Middleton High School a short time later. People waved and said hello. To Ron, it was all still a bit unusual. He recalled how some of the students had begun to look at him differently back in the spring after he and Kim began dating and he had put Bonnie in her place, not once but twice in a single day. But this day things appeared to be different. The news coverage of the museum incident seemed to have boosted his stock to a whole new level. Football players were giving him high fives. To Kim's surprise and relief, Ron was not showing any signs of "big-headiness." She hadn't made the connection between Ron's new level-headedness and one red-headed teen's confidence in and affections for him.

Later in the day, as they left their second to last class, Kim laughed.

"What's so funny?" Ron asked.

"It's ironic – last spring I was all worried about the stupid food chain. I know it really doesn't matter, but here I am dating the only ninja in Middleton, and a ninja so sounds like the top of the food chain to me!" Kim then took Ron's hands and looked into his eyes. "Though you'd be at the top of my food chain even if you weren't a ninja."

Ron didn't care if Mr. Barkin walked down the hallway. He gave Kim a hug, which she happily returned. It was a nice way to begin their final year of high school. They knew things would be different in so many ways: their deepening relationship, college applications, and different class schedules. Not surprisingly, Kim was taking all honors classes. Ron, with Kim's encouragement, was willing to push himself and had convinced Mr. Barkin to let him try some advanced classes, too. History and English were things he could work hard at with the possibility of doing well; things like calculus, however, he wasn't going to fool around with and it happened that math was scheduled for the final period. The day's last class was one they would not be taking together.

"Meet you in the gym for the cheer squad meeting?" Kim asked brushing her her fingers along the back of his hand.

"You got it, KP. The Mad Dog's ready to play!" Ron answered, taking her hand and giving it a squeeze before heading to his class.

They met up 50 minutes later and walked to the gym together. When they got there, all of the other squad members were already present. Kim immediately sensed that something was wrong. Bonnie looked supremely confident, which wasn't unusual. But Tara looked like someone who was being kept out of the loop.

Something's wrong, thought Kim.

Kim, as captain of the squad, was about to begin the meeting when Bonnie stood up.

"Excuse me, Kim. I'd like to say something," Bonnie sniffed.

"Uh, sure Bonnie," Kim said, wondering what Bonnie was planning.

"I think it's time for a new captain," she declared.

Kim groaned. Here we go again, she thought. Last time Bonnie made it a whole two weeks before bailing. Do we really need to go through this again?

Before Kim could say anything, Bonnie barreled on. "You just don't have time for the squad. Admit it. You're yearbook editor, on the dance committee, a member of the environmental club, busy saving the world," – this was said with air-quotes and sarcasm – "and, how should I put it, otherwise occupied with Ron ..."

Ron turned beet red while Kim glared at Bonnie.

"… I think I should be the new captain. I have more time; now know what I'm getting into, having served as captain before; and, through the modeling agency, can get us incredibly hot new designer uniforms at no cost.

"I think we should vote, right now."

Kim was stunned, but quickly regained her composure. "Okay, Bonnie. Let's have a vote. But I think I've worked hard for this squad. While I've been captain we've won the cheer regionals …"

"But we still haven't gone to the nationals," Bonnie interrupted.

"…. And I've given this my all. I'd be proud to get your votes. And I can promise that this will continue to be a priority for me …" Just then the Kimmunicator began to chirp.

"Someone calling, Kim?" Bonnie taunted. "Evil needs your attention? Or is it your dermatologist?"

"Hey, that's uncalled for!" Ron snapped.

Bonnie responded by blowing him an air kiss. Kim's eyes flared.

Reluctantly, she took the call.

"What's the sitch, Wade?" she snapped.

"Bad time?" he asked.

"Ferociously bad," she answered through gritted teeth.

"Sorry, but you remember that French aeronautics company I did some consulting for?" he said. "A prototype of their next generation pilotless drone helicopter is flying out of control around France; I tried to land it remotely, but didn't have any success. The French Air Force wants to shoot it down, but I thought you might be able to bring it in. They said they'd let you have a try before they acted. I have a ride for you if you can go. I hate to ask a favor, but it would mean a lot to me. The prototype cost a fortune to build and these guys have actually directed some good technology our way."

Kim looked at Wade's image, then the cheer squad. She was torn. Then she felt Ron take her hand, which he squeezed gently. It was at moments like this that she knew why she loved him so much; he really always was there when things got tough. She sighed. "We're on it, Wade."

Bonnie smiled triumphantly, "Now that we know about your real priorities, can we vote? Then you can go save the world while we practice."

When the balloting was over, Kim had received just three votes: her own, Ron's and Tara's. Before leaving for the mission, Kim decided to do the gracious thing and suggested making the vote unanimous. Bonnie, however, decided to twist the knife a little more, and rudely dismissed the gesture, saying it was unnecessary, making Kim feel foolish.

Kim stalked out of the gym with Ron in tow.

II.

As Kim and Ron climbed aboard their transportation to France, James Possible dropped into a chair in the surprisingly empty teacher's lounge. He was sitting quietly, collecting his thoughts, when Steve Barkin entered.

"Possible, mind if I join you?" the gruff assistant principal barked, as he grabbed a cup of coffee.

"No, please, sit down," James said.

"So, how was your first day?" Barkin asked.

"Mixed," James answered. "There are some students here who will be a joy to teach. Really enthusiastic kids. But some of the others …"

"Lord of the Flies, Possible. That's the only education you need to be a high school teacher. It will tell you everything you need to know about the darkest recesses of the teen mind."

"You may be right. Did you know I already have a nickname? "The Mad Scientist." I overheard that one after physics."

Barkin looked at his new colleague. He saw a proud, decent man who was doing his best not to let his pain show. But Steve Barkin had been watching people for years. James Possible was suffering. What had happened to him just wasn't fair. He couldn't imagine what it would be like to be a world-famous authority, only to lose a hard-earned reputation under what could only be called freakish circumstances.

"Possible, focus on the good kids," he advised. "That's your reward. Especially the ones who have potential, but need encouragement. You can change someone's life with what you do here. Not a bad way to spend your day, now is it?"

"No, it's not when you put it that way." Yet James Possible could not escape the fact that, even here, there were people who thought he was dangerous. That some of them also thought him an object for ridicule was just icing on the cake.

III.

Dr. Harris was worried. He had been experimenting with the Drone-Sat's maneuvering thrusters. Wanting to confirm just how agile the unit was, he had piloted the drone towards another satellite. The Drone-Sat got too close, however, and collided with the other vehicle, which belonged to a company based outside of Paris. Harris didn't look forward to sharing this news with Drake.

He had heard about colleagues who'd run afoul of the Director. And of course there was the case of Possible. But as he contemplated various unpleasant possibilities, he realized he might actually have been presented with an opportunity. Drake had wanted to know about any potential military applications for the Drone-Sats …

IV.

Hank Perkins, lawyer and some-time temp to villains, looked at the young man on the other side of the Plexiglas divider. The prisoner was Japanese and in his late teens. It was clear that he did not like wearing an orange jumpsuit.

Fukushima returned his visitor's gaze with interest. He knew he could count on Monkey Fist to get him out of this prison.

"My client is willing to make bail for you …" Hank said.

"I assume your client is Lord Monkey Fist?" the young man interrupted, speaking with arrogance.

"No, it is not," Hank replied. "Unfortunately, I am not at liberty to reveal my client's identity at the moment. But it is someone who has operated in the field with Monkey Fist in the past. In exchange for securing your release, my client would like you to agree to be on retainer. Pay you a contingency fee should your services be needed."

"I am not interested in money. I am only interested in claiming the Lotus Blade and avenging myself against the Outsider."

"The Outsider? Who's he?" They're all nuts. Every one of these villains is stark raving nuts, Hank thought. On the other hand, they sure do pay well.

"He is known here as Ron Stoppable."

"Ah. Then I think we can do business, my friend. My client has expressed an interest in him, too."

"I can't believe her! Bonnie is sooo out of control! Can you believe …"

Ron listened as Kim continued to rant. He couldn't blame her. Kim may have lost her temper, but everything she'd been saying about Bonnie was true. Bonnie was vindictive, mean-spirited, and cunningly clever. Ron also knew that Kim felt let down by the cheerleaders who voted against her. Sure, the call from Wade had come at the worst possible moment; it couldn't have been better timed to clinch Bonnie's argument. But hadn't Kim gone the extra mile again and again for the squad?

Ron had listened sympathetically for quite a while, but decided the time had come for Kim to amp down. They needed to talk about the mission before they arrived in France.

"You know, KP, if anyone is going to complain, it should be me," Ron said.

"What?" Kim responded indignantly.

"Well, all that happened to you was that you lost an election. I was the one who had Bonnie blow an air kiss at him," he said making a face. "Yuck. Kissing Bonnie would be worse than kissing …"

"A synthodrone?" Kim asked, beginning to smile.

"… Exactly!" Ron said, wearing his trademark goofy grin. "In fact, maybe Bonnie is a synthodrone. That would explain a lot …"

Kim felt her tension draining away. She was still disappointed about the outcome of the vote, but she was able to begin putting it in perspective. She laughed, then said, "You rock, Ron."

Ron eyed Kim suspiciously, taking Kim by surprise. "What?" she asked.

"How do I know you're not a synthodrone?" he replied.

Kim came over to Ron and sat on his lap. "You'll just have to find out for yourself, won't you ..."

VI.

Harris was relieved by Drake's response to his news.

"Are we getting any telemetry?" the director wanted to know.

"Yes, we are. The simulations had suggested that the Drone-Sat was very robust; this collision offers proof."

"So the Drone-Sat can impact another satellite, damage it, and continue on its mission. Fascinating," Drake said, steepling his fingers and looking thoughtful. "Dr. Harris, I want you to work with the Project Ares staff. I can see some intriguing synergies between your efforts and theirs. You may have just hit upon a way to achieve strategic domination of outer space."

VII.

"… You are definitely NOT a synthodrone," Ron said, wearing a very happy grin, thinking of the kiss he'd just enjoyed.

"Good answer, Bad Boy," Kim purred. "Now that we've settled that, let's talk about how we're going to handle Wade's helicopter."

As the private jet on which they were flying approached Paris, Kim and Ron read the technical information that Wade had provided on the craft and finalized their plan of attack; Kim would be leading the mission, which satisfied Ron just fine. He knew the score where ninjas and Camp Wannaweep were concerned; rogue technology he would leave to his girlfriend, though he was happy to help in whatever way he could.

"Ron, one final thing," Kim said. "And please know I love you with all my heart as I say this."

"O-kay," he said, a bit worried.

"If you see any unlabelled buttons, DO NOT PRESS THEM!" Kim knew that if there was one thing in this world that Ron Stoppable found almost as alluring as her it was an unmarked button, especially the bright, red kind. Put Ron in front of a button, he'd push it. Sometimes that worked to their advantage, sometimes not.

Ron turned red and grinned sheepishly. "I'll try not to, KP. Promise."

"Thanks," she said before giving him a peck on the nose.

As they left the jet, Kim thanked the pilot for the ride. "Think nothing of it, my employer is still grateful to you for saving the Paris Fashion Show last year."

"No big," she said breezily. "Anybody could have seen that some of the models were really androids. Their evening gowns gave them away; they were so last year!"

Kim and Ron walked away from the jet. Kim pulled out the Kimmunicator and contacted Wade.

"We're in Paris, Wade. Can you send the coordinates of your helicopter?"

"I'll send them now."

"Please and thank you."

Once Kim had the data, she turned to Ron and asked, "You ready?"

"Yup." Rufus popped out of Ron's pocket, gave Kim a thumbs up and squeaked ready.

"Okay, boys, let's go!" Kim and Ron pressed the buttons on their backpacks, causing their flying packs to deploy. They then blasted off in search of the runaway aircraft.

They found the copter buzzing the Eiffel Tower. For a brief moment Kim recalled the last time she and Ron had been there – he was in France with his parents, and she was on-site trying to retrieve Rufus, who had been kidnapped for the microchip he'd swallowed. Ron never learned about that incident; he didn't know that Kim had been within a few hundred yards of him. Maybe someday we'll be able to come here together on a romantic trip, she thought, before returning her attention to the mission.

They approached the aircraft; tourists on the observation deck were pointing at them. Nobody had expected this kind of entertainment.

Kim and Ron had been relieved to learn that the helicopter had not yet been fitted out with offensive systems. But most of its defenses were in place; the most daunting of which was ionized hull plating. By giving off an electrical charge, the helicopter prevented anybody from touching its surface, thus precluding entry. After conferring with Wade, Kim and Ron had agreed on a Plan A and a Plan B. Plan A involved Kim firing a dispersal beam from the Kimmunicator; that would disrupt the hull plating and allow them to board the helicopter. Plan B was a bit dicier. Naturally, that was what they had to implement when the Kimmunicator failed to do the job.

Kim was going to use the battle suit's technology to discharge the ionized field. She would be able to use the suit's electronic circuitry to momentarily ionize the fabric to match the particle frequency of the helicopter; the suit would act as a conductor for the energy, which would then be discharged through the power glove. In essence, Kim would act light a reverse lightning rod. Ron would then fly to the door of the helicopter, gain entry, and pull Kim into the cockpit. To make the plan even less appealing, since the copter's energy field could cause other equipment to short out or even blow up, Kim would have to be free of the Kimmunicator, which she could easily enough pass off to Ron in flight, and her jet pack, which would have to be jettisoned as she jumped to the aircraft.

He did not like this idea when they discussed it, but Kim insisted. And though they were partners, he still deferred to her in the field. She had earned that. His respect for her experience, however, didn't stop him from telling her that since Wade had yet to "super suit" him, he was tempted to knock her out right there so he could put on the Battle Suit himself and do the "discharge thingie."

Kim arched an eyebrow, then smiled.

Kim may have been strong and independent but she still liked the idea that Ron cared enough to want to protect her.

She also liked the fact that he knew when to back off, and let her handle things.

"You know, you can be so ferociously sweet," she finally said to her boyfriend.

"Not as sweet as you in that suit, KP," he replied with a wolfish grin.

"Oooh. You are a bad boy, Ron Stoppable!" she said encouragingly.

That playful banter seemed liked something from the distant past as Kim approached the helicopter. They had no choice but to try. If the French Air Force shot down the craft, innocent people below might be hurt from falling debris.

She checked the settings on her power glove, took a deep breath, let her jet pack go, and with perfect timing grabbed onto the helicopter's port landing skid. The energy began running across her suit. She could feel her skin tingling. She was surprised to find herself thinking, My hair is going to be so whacked after this.

Ron watched nervously. He saw Kim enveloped by blue energy, her hair flying out in all directions. A moment later she pointed the glove up into the sky and discharged a tremendous bolt of energy. Had he not been so worried about Kim, he definitely would have thought that was one of the coolest things he had ever seen. Kim had successfully dissipated the energy field. Ron maneuvered to the door of the copter, looked down at Kim, who had pulled herself up and was now sitting onto the skid while holding onto a strut with one hand and giving him a thumbs up with the other.

Ron opened the door and climbed into the cockpit.

Kim waited. Nothing.

Then she saw a panicked Rufus poke his head out of the door.

"Rufus! Is Ron alright?" she yelled, sure she already knew the answer to her question. The naked mole rat shook his head and confirmed her fears.

"Can you push the door open all the way for me?" she asked.

Rufus nodded. He slowly swung it outward.

Kim made sure not to look down as she dropped from her perch, dangled from the skid, crossed one hand over the other so she could rotate and face away from the copter's hull. It was then she noticed the TV news helicopters. She shook her head and thought, Idiots.

Kim counted to ten, began swinging back and forth to build momentum, took a deep breath, and flipped herself into the cabin. She landed on her feet, though unsteadily. Before she could gain her footing and survey her surroundings, she felt a beam of energy slam into her torso. She staggered, then dropped down to the floor, and found herself lying prone. Rufus pointed in the direction of the beam and then towards Ron, who must have been hit when he boarded; unlike Kim, Ron wasn't wearing special gear. In fact, the force of the blow knocked his jet-pack and helmet loose.

Kim retrieved the Kimmunicator from Ron's pocket and contacted Wade. Before he could say anything she snapped. "Ron's down, Wade! You didn't tell us about on-board lasers."

Wade looked shocked. "What? They're supposed to be inoperative."

"Well it looks like the circuitry's been scrambled. Ron was hit and so was I." Kim was ripped, but she began to control her breathing. She wanted to gain control of the aircraft and, more important, tend to Ron.

"Sorry, Kim," the young tech guru apologized. "Ron will be okay, if a bit sore. They're beams non-lethal."

"Yeah, and they're inoperative, too," she said sarcastically.

Wade looked hurt.

Kim sighed. "Sorry, Wade, but it's way tense up here and I don't like seeing Ron hurt."

"Understood, Kim. Don't worry. Do you see the control panel?"

"Yes, I do," she said, focusing on the task at hand.

"You need to press the third switch from the right to turn off the internal defense system," Wade instructed her.

Kim looked at the panel; she'd be hit again getting up and wasn't sure how many shots she could take. Still, she'd have to try. But before she could, Rufus scampered over, dodging the shot that came his way as he clambered onto the panel. He flipped the switch, then wiped his brow and sighed.

Kim smiled at him, and said, "Once gain the little guy makes the big play."

Rufus beamed with pride.

Kim looked at Ron; he seemed to breathing normally, but was still unconscious. She knew he couldn't be comfortable. She had to get him medical attention.

"Wade, what do I do now?" she asked, wanting to know how to land the helicopter.

He gave her instructions; she sat in the pilot's seat, took control of the craft and headed towards the airport. Wade, meanwhile, was arranging for medical help.

After Kim landed the helicopter she rushed back to Ron and knelt besides him. She caressed his face and he slowly came to.

"Oof. KP, are you okay?" he wondered.

"Me? Ron, you're the one who took the hit!" she exclaimed.

"Uh, KP, have you looked at your super suit?" It was covered with scorch marks; Kim didn't know it yet, but the electronics were completely fried.

"I'm sure it looks no worse than my hair," she said with a grin.

Ron smiled weakly. "Your hair does look kind of freaky. But maybe we could get some Le Goop from Francois while we're here." Ron groaned; he was hurting. "KP …"

"Yes, Ron …." she said softly.

"Next time we come here," he replied, "can we try doing things like normal people: you know, eat crepes, go to the top of Eiffel Tower, avoid roaming street mimes?"

"I'd like that very much," she said as she cradled his head in her lap.

VIII.

Kim and Ron were exhausted when they arrived at school the next day. The mission to Paris had taken its toll, and while they had slept on the flight home, they were both suffering from sleep deprivation by the time they went to the cafeteria for lunch. They had just grabbed their trays of Mystery Meat when Bonnie came over.

"Hello, Kim," Bonnie said, looking her fellow cheerleader over. "You look tired. Busy night saving the world – or were you and Ron here busy?

"Cut it out Bonnie, you're not funny," Ron said.

"I may not be funny, but you're getting kind of cute, Ron" Bonnie purred. "If I weren't already dating someone, I'd suggest you give me a call when you decide its time to trade up to a real woman."

Kim's blood was beginning to boil. She was gritting her teeth and clenching her fists. Stay away from him, Bonnie, she thought.

"Bon-Bon," Ron said. "You. Me. Hell Freezing Over. Dig?"

"Oh, Ron, you can play hard to get all you want." Bonnie then looked directly at Kim. "So, Kim, where did you go, if you were fighting evil last night? You know, I hear we have our own mad scientist right here in town that you could fight. Oops. My mistake. You know him. He lives in your house!"

After years of being baited by Bonnie Rockwaller, Kim Possible finally snapped. She dropped her tray and jumped her fellow cheerleader. "Stop it! Don't you ever, ever talk about my father that way!" she yelled, tears streaming from her eyes. Kim had kept her emotions bottled up inside for a long time, but she had felt her father's pain and suffering almost as much as he had. She loved him and had always been proud of him, even when he was embarrassing her. Kim was about to hurt her when Ron pulled her off.

"Kim, she's not worth it!" he said. "Your gonna get into trouble!"

But it was too late. A teacher had arrived.

James Possible.

"Kimberly Ann Possible!" he said loudly and sternly.

"D-dad …" she stammered.

"Principal's office. Now," he said, wearing a pained expression. As Ron made to go with her, Dr. Possible put his hand on the boy's shoulder. "Not you, Ronald."

Bonnie did everything she could to stop from smiling, enjoying the three-fer: Kim losing her cool and being humiliated; Kim's dad having to punish his daughter in public; and Ron having to stand there helpless to do anything. She was very much looking forward to telling Shego about what had happened. As far as Bonnie was concerned, being evil sure was fun.

IX.

James Possible hated his job that day. He knew how mortified his daughter must have been being disciplined by her own father in front of a room of her peers. Yet he knew, and knew she knew, that he had no choice. He had to treat her as he would any other student in that situation.

Bonnie had been a model of charm when he asked her what happened; she sweetly answered that Kim's lack of sleep and, while she hoped it wasn't the case, her loss of the cheer squad captaincy, might have pushed her over the edge. Anyway, Bonnie continued, everybody knew how stressful a life Kim led; she'd just as soon forget the whole thing. The explanation sounded plausible – except to one who knew his daughter as well as James Possible did. His doubts about the story were confirmed when Ron filled him in on what actually happened.

James Possible decided that he'd have to give up his job at the school. Kim's education was too important and the situation was already breeding tension. His presence would only be a distraction.

Kim received an in-school suspension for the rest of the day, detention for a week, and was prohibited from participating in any extra-curricular activities during that time. At the end of a long day, a dejected Kim Possible trudged through the corridors of the empty school, towards the front door. She walked through the doors and found Ron sitting on the steps, waiting for her. She sat down beside him.

"Hey," she said, quietly.

"Hey," he replied, putting his arm around her.

"Thanks for waiting," she said, resting her head on his shoulder. "And thanks for stopping me before I really hurt Bonnie."

"As someone I love likes to say, 'no big.'"

Kim smiled. "Well, will you walk the new school bully home? Something tells me that I'm going to be ferociously grounded and that we're not going to be spending much time together the next few days."

"Then we'd better walk very, very slowly," Ron suggested.

XI.

The Drs. Possible were not happy with what happened at school that day – even though Kim had been goaded, she could have seriously injured Bonnie – and did indeed ground Kim. But Pizza Night had become a longstanding tradition at the Possible home, and Ron's presence was part of that tradition. Not wanting to punish Ron or the twins, who enjoyed having Ron and Rufus around, they invited him to join the family for dinner.

Nobody was particularly enjoying their food that week. Kim was still down from what happened at school, her father was once again worried about his future, her mother was concerned about her family, the twins were aware that things were not right at home, and Ron was still sore from the laser blast he'd taken in the helicopter. They were eating quietly when Ron broke the silence.

"This just stinks," he declared. "It's too bad you can't start your own space center, Mr. Dr. P."

The scientist smiled fondly at his daughter's boyfriend. "A nice idea, Ronald, but it takes lots of money. But don't worry. I'll land on my feet." James had already informed them of his decision to leave his position at the school.

After dinner, as part of being grounded, Kim went up to her room alone. Before she went up, Ron kissed her goodnight, then prepared to leave. Jim and Tim asked if he'd stay and watch TV with them. Since he'd already done his homework (the Ron of a year ago would have wondered about the odd habits he was picking up from Kim) and had nothing else to do he accepted their invitation.

They flipped through the channels and settled on American Starmaker. The three watched the show for a while before Jim said, "This show stinks …"

"… yeah, now that Mean Guy isn't mean anymore!" Tim added. The show's host had continued using the free supply of shampoo that Drakken had given him earlier that year as part of his successful attempt to snare a spot on the program; the once-snarky emcee had been annoyingly pleasant ever since.

The two boys weren't the only ones who felt that the show stunk. Millions of disaffected viewers agreed. And the producers at the Wolf network were concerned that the numbers for their once top-rated show had fallen so sharply. That was why at the end of that night's program, the emcee announced a special edition of American Starmaker would be aired in one week. Five contestants from previous shows would be selected to compete; their names would be announced tomorrow. The contestants would be judged by a randomly selected studio audience, which would vote for a winner, who would walk away with $10,000,000.

"Hey, Ron, maybe you and Rufus will be chosen," Tim said.

"That would be so cool!" Jim chimed in.

"Yeah, it would. But I only got a B- when I appeared," Ron looked indulgently at the tweebs. "It would be pretty badical, though."

XII.

Andrew Drake stood in front of a bank of microphones and dozens of TV news cameras.

"Today I am pleased to announce the beginning of a new chapter in the story of scientific research. We have completed negotiations with the government and private investors and will privatize the Space Center. As a private entity we will enjoy maximum flexibility while making no claims on the taxpayer, a win-win situation for all. Indeed, I can report to you that we have already secured initial funding of five billion dollars.

"To inaugurate this new era, we will be changing our name to the X Institute …"

XIII.

Now that Kim had renewed her acquaintance with Big Mike, Vince, and Eddie, and reminded people that cheerleaders did indeed do detention, she didn't feel like she had much to lose by racing down the corridor. The worst Barkin could do was extend her sentence.

She was breathless when she found Ron. She thrust the Kimmunicator at him.

"Call. For you," she said, catching her breath.

"Uh, thanks, KP." Ron realized he'd left his cell phone at home. "But no need to run …"

"Take the call!" she urged.

"Hello?

"Uh huh.

"But I … I see.

"Okay."

Kim stared at Ron. "Well?"

"They just asked me to sing on next week's American Starmaker," he said matter-of-factly.

Kim was marveled at how calm Ron was.

Then he fainted. It had taken a few moments for him to realize that he would actually be going on live TV to compete for ten million dollars.

Mean Guy may have only given him a B- for the "Naked Mole Rap," but the producers were aware that the song had become an internet-driven cult hit. Ron, like the other four contestants who had been chosen, had proven himself to be a fan favorite.

XIV.

From Ron's perspective, there had been one benefit to Kim's grounding, and that was his ability to focus on writing a new song. He had trouble at first. He'd stare at the wall, then the ceiling, then his lava lamp. Rufus began to get edgy after Ron took to staring at him. But then inspiration hit. He began scribbling lyrics. Then he improvised a tune. Then he got Rufus into the act. Ron began to relax. I may not win, but at least I'm gonna have one bon-diggity good time! he thought.

Kim's parents decided to parole Kim from her grounding so she could fly to LA with Ron; she argued, and they agreed, that she'd be able to keep him calm before his performance. While she was indeed interested in doing that, she also wanted to hear his song before he went on TV.

"Nope," he said, refusing to share his lyrics with her. "It's going to be a surprise. You like my surprises don't you?" he asked.

She had to admit to herself that she did. But that didn't stop her from trying the puppy dog pout – only to be reminded that Ron had somehow devised a defense against the most powerful tool in the arsenal of the Possible women.

A few hours later they were behind stage at the Wolf network studios. Kim sat with Ron in the green room, as he waited his turn to perform. Mean Guy, no longer entertainingly mean, had been replaced by MC Honey, the rapper, as that night's host. Based on the audience's reaction, Kim thought Mean Guy might want to start looking for a new gig.

Finally, Ron's name was called. Kim gave him a hug and a kiss. "You look great," she said, surveying his floppy hat, baggy pants and borrowed bling.

Rapmaster Ron walked out on stage.

The strobes began to flash, the bass began to thump, Rufus began to wiggle and led things off:

Boom – pffft – pffft – boom – boom – pffft

Chikka – chikka – chikka. chikka – chikka – koo. Unnh.

Then Ron, who strutted across the stage, began singing:

Now lemme tell you a story/'bout my girl KP

Ya got that right/ she's actually datin' me.

She's got red hair/she's got green eyes

She's got great moves/for takin' down bad guys

We go way back/back to that pre-K

And we're still hangin' tight/to this very day.

We used to hang out/at a place called Bueno Nacho

But it was blown up/by Dr D, who was a real wacko.

Ron broke into the refrain, waving his hands in the air, then pointing at the audience.

Her name's Kim. Kim Possible

Kim. Kim. Kim -- Kim Possible.

She's oh – so badical

Oh so – so – so – so badical.

Now I wanna hear a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

The audience enthusiastically responded to Ron's first call and "boo-yahed" even more lustily the second time.

Gonna give me a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Ron fed off the energy; the audience was clapping and stomping its feet. He and Rufus began moonwalking; the people in the studio cheered ever more loudly.

We've been in lots of scrapes/all around the world

And now I'm gonna tell ya/she's one tough girl.

She'll save your town or city/then go home and do her trig,

Then rescue your cat/and say it's "no big."

You see I've got her back/And she's got mine.

As a fighter and a girlfriend/she's mighty fine.

Her name's Kim. Kim Possible

Kim. Kim. Kim -- Kim Possible.

She's oh – so badical

Oh so – so – so – so badical.

Now I wanna hear a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Gonna give me a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

The audience roared its "boo-yahs" this time.

She volunteers at school/she cheerleads, too.

And then she goes and does/that funky cool kung-fu.

She can do anything/Oh yeah she can

Though we're gonna leave the singing/to this boyfriend man.

So ya see I gotta rap/'bout my girl KP

Rapmaster Ron's gotta sing/cuz' she means the world to me

Her name's Kim. Kim Possible

Kim. Kim. Kim -- Kim Possible.

She's oh – so badical

Oh so – so – so – so badical.

Now I wanna hear a boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Gonna give me a boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Once again the audience joined in. Ron spun and pointed to Rufus, who sang:

Uh huh, uh huh uh huh. Uh huh, uh huh huh huh.

Ron, using both hands, pointed at the audience and finished:

Now I wanna hear a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Gonna give me a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Now I wanna hear a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

Gonna give me a boo-yah! Boo-yah! Boo-yah!

The studio exploded. The audience was cheering and applauding and shouting "boo-yah" and "badical." Rufus blew air kisses to the audience and said, "Buh-bye!"

Kim didn't know whether to laugh with joy or cry with affection. Ron had just sung a love letter, albeit a very goofy love letter, to her in front of a projected live audience of sixty million people. He took his bows, hamming it up as he made his way off stage. When he stepped behind the curtain, she jumped into his arms and gave him a passionate kiss. "You rock and you rap, Ron!"

Ron collapsed on the green room couch; Kim sat down beside him. They watched the final contestant on a video monitor.

After the last act was over, MC Honey asked the audience members to register their votes on the electronic key pads located at their seats while the program cut to a commercial break. Two minutes of ads for dentures and SUVs seemed like an eternity to Ron.

MC Honey welcomed the viewers back to the program. She was handed an envelope, which she opened slowly, allowing the suspense to build.

"And the winner is … Rapmaster Ron Stoppable!"

Kim screamed. Ron's jaw dropped; he sat there stunned. Kim and Rufus had to push him back on stage.

He was numb, but managed to smile and wave. I won. I just won. They voted for ME. I just won … ten million dollars …

The crowd was cheering wildly. He knew what they wanted, so he began prancing around the stage. They ate it up. He called Rufus to join him, which prompted another wave of raucous cheering. Then MC Honey asked if the song's inspiration was present and Ron beckoned for Kim to join him. The audience clapped wildly as she walked onto stage, then roared its approval when they kissed. Then responding to calls for an encore, Ron did the "Naked Mole Rap," which elicited a standing ovation.

The network executives were very happy men and women. The prize money was a small investment to make in the revival of their most valuable property.

James and Ann Possible couldn't control themselves. They were jumping up and down, giving each other high fives. They were too excited to even care that their daughter was lip smacking her boyfriend on live national TV.

Jim and Tim looked at the TV, then each other.

"Ewww! They're kissing" Jim said.

"TV cootie alert!" Tim chimed in.

"Kim and Ron: So hot …" Jim added.

"… they're on fire!" Tim concluded. "Hoo-shah!" they both exclaimed.

Ron's parents were equally excited, though his mother couldn't help but roll her eyes when his father said, "Musical talent. Takes after the old man."

Bonnie, watching with Junior, who had made a flying visit to see his new girlfriend, fumed quietly. Even if Ron was the one who won the contest, the song was about Kim. It always came back to her. Junior, however, did not react quietly. He was beside himself. "Why can't I be the teen pop star? He doesn't even have a nice haircut anymore! This is so unfair." Being Junior, this wasn't about Kim. It was about him.

Shego was also watching with interest. Once again, Drakken's Law of Unintended Consequences came into play. Dr. D, through his nutty scheme to sell brain control shampoo had turned Ron Stoppable into a multi-millionaire celebrity. You and the buffoon are flying high Kimmie, she thought. But maybe now it's time for you to crash.

XV.

Ron walked into the Possibles' kitchen.

Kim's father stood up and shook his hand. "Outstanding, Ronald."

Her mother gave him a hug. "We're so proud of you."

The boys high-fived him.

And Kim watched with a nervous smile. She knew why Ron had come over to speak with her father.

"Uh, Mr. Dr. P.? Can I talk with you? Alone?" Ron asked nervously.

The room fell silent.

"Of course, Ronald. Let's go into the family room." Oh no, James thought. Please don't ask to marry Kim. Not yet. You're not old enough, even if you're rich.

Ron and Kim's father sat down. Dr. Possible felt a knot in his stomach.

"Dr. P., you know that I love Kim," Ron said, sitting up straight, his hands on his knees.

"Uh, yes, Ronald. Of course I do." James replied while thinking, I don't want to say no, but you're still in high school!

"You know why I love her?" Ron asked.

He then answered his own question. "Part of it is because she's been my best friend forever. She's smart. And she's also pretty, really pretty. She loves me even though I'm weird. But the reason I love her most is because of who she is. And Dr. P., Kim is who she is in large part because of you and Mrs. Dr. P …"

James was confused. He wasn't sure where the conversation was going.

"… You taught her about loyalty and friendship and helping other people and what really matters. And over the years, you taught me those things, too. You've been like a second father to me …"

James Possible was touched. But as he appreciated Ron's comments, he watched Ron's face grow stern. The young man was clearly angry.

"… You are the best rocket scientist this stupid town has ever seen. What happened to you is criminal. You know, I remember going to Rocket Boosters with you when I was a kid. The cookies were great. But what was even better was how you made what you did seem important and fun. I still don't understand most of what you did, but that doesn't matter.

"You should be doing rockets, not teaching at the high school."

Ron shifted in his seat, then reached into a pocket and pulled out an envelope, which he handed to Kim's father.

"This is for you. I know it's probably not enough, but maybe it can get you started …"

James hesitantly began to open the envelope, thinking that what Ronald had done was a nice gesture. Still …

Dr. Possible's eyes almost popped out of his head. "Oh my God," he whispered, as he stared at a blank check for five million dollars.

"Ronald, I …" James Possible was at a loss for words. "Do your parents, I mean, you …"

"No need to worry Dr. P. We talked. There was enough after taxes so I could do this, pay their mortgage, put money away for college and the future, even have a little mad money." Ron reached into his pocket and pulled out another envelope. "Speaking of my parents, Dad said I should give this to you. It's about tax stuff and non-profit status. After you talk and do the paperwork and name your new space center you can fill in the check and deposit it."

"Ronald, I can't," James said.

"Yes, you can," Ron said forcefully. "Dr. P, Kim saves the world, Mrs. Dr. P does brains, you do rockets. And I get to spread a little Ronshine."

James Timothy Possible was overwhelmed. He got up and hugged Ron, then began to cry. The rest of the family couldn't help but hear and came to the doorway. They saw Ron and Dr. Possible standing together for a long time.

Finally, Ron said, "I ask just one thing. You let me name the first rocket."

"Deal," was all Kim's father could manage to say, still choked up.

Later that evening Kim and Ron sat on the deck, looking at the stars. She was holding Ron's hand.

"You know you're my hero," she said.

"Well that's good KP, because you're my hero …" he replied.

"No Ron, I mean it."

"So do I."

"Ron, just listen for a moment," she insisted. "I don't know how far that money will go, but you gave Dad his life back tonight. That was the most generous, incredible thing anybody I've known has ever done." She paused, hoping her comments would sink in. "I would tell you I love you, but you already know that."

"You know I'll never get tired of hearing you say it," Ron replied.

Kim smiled at her boyfriend and squeezed his hand. "I love you, Ron Stoppable."

They sat quietly, not needing to say anything more, as they gazed at the night sky.

XIV.

James Possible found some warehouse space in an industrial section of town. It was dirty, and unattractive, but large and affordable. He signed a lease. And with great pleasure, he wrote the name of his new organization on the document: Middleton Space Center. Dr. Possible's sparring partner Rabbi Katz had recommended a lawyer; James was glad he'd retained the man to handle the papers. The attorney had discovered that nobody had ever bothered to register or copyright the old Space Center name.

Five million dollars wasn't a huge amount of money for the kind of work Dr. Possible did. But it would be enough to buy computers and begin some design work. And that in turn would give him credibility as he looked for funding. He was soon able to line up infusions of cash from Nakasumi Toys of Japan, whose CEO said he'd like to diversify, and a French aeronautics company that designed and built pilotless drone helicopters, among other things.

Colleagues who'd remained loyal to him when he was the black sheep at his old job, and who were now unemployed because of that faithfulness, expressed an interest in coming to work at the new Space Center, even if the pay was going to be low and the equipment Spartan. James Possible was happy to talk to anyone with talent. Prof. Hinckley signed on as a consultant. As did Wade.

The new Middleton Space Center was in business.

And when Andrew Drake learned of this he slammed his surprisingly small, delicate hands onto his desk and muttered, "Snap."

XVII.

Bonnie sat at the conference table in Shego's office. She and Shego had just finished discussing a proposed photo shoot of winter styles. The professional villain and her protégé shared not only vicious mean streaks and an inexplicable animus towards Kim Possible, but a love of cutting-edge fashion. They both enjoyed the work of the Ella Va Agency.

Shego closed her folder and looked at Bonnie. "Okay, cheerleader, fun's over. Let's get down to business. That was good work you did with Possible earlier this fall. I loved the image of Kimmie getting suspended, then spending a week in detention!"

"Thanks, Shego," Bonnie said with a slightly furrowed brow. Bonnie had already forgotten her triumph and was now stewing over Ron's success and the reflected glow it cast on Kim. Every girl in Middleton, in fact the country, thought it was the sweetest thing that he'd sung her that song on national TV.

Shego knew how Bonnie felt. And she thought it was a good thing. Resentment was the well from which a successful villain drew; it was the kindling that stoked the fires of ambition. An angry Bonnie would be a more productive Bonnie.

Shego also knew it was time to take things to the next level, for both Bonnie and Kim. "So how'd you like to see Kimmie hurt? And I don't mean metaphorically."

Bonnie perked up.

"Here's what I've got in mind …" Shego began to explain her plan. Bonnie smirked and nodded, offering her opinions and insights. This is going to be good, she thought.

XVIII.

"Sit down," Kim said in her best no-nonsense voice.

Ron complied, slipping into the breakfast nook in the Possible family kitchen. He saw a stack of books and large envelopes. Ron became nervous as he saw the titles: Fun with the SAT!, Standardized Tests Are Your Friend and The SAT without Tears.

Kim pulled one of the envelopes out of the stack and pushed it in front of him. It was addressed to him and was from Upperton Community College. "What's this?" she asked.

"Hey, it's a federal offense to take someone's mail!" Ron whined.

"You want to talk crime, let's talk about that Zombie Mayhem V source code you got Wade to download for you from a certain secure corporate web site," she said, here eyebrow arched.

Ron fell quiet.

"Talk," she ordered.

"It's a college application, KP," he said.

"I know that, Ron. But Upperton Community College?"

"Oh, like I'm going to get in anywhere else," he asked glumly. Ron knew he'd have to deal with college applications, but since he realized how much it actually meant to have Kim in his life, he'd dreaded thinking about the subject. He even had a nightmare scenario all figured out: Kim went to Harvard, he went to Upperton; She met a handsome genius and dumped him; in a fit of depression, he dropped out of school, and, with no other options, pulled out the Zorpox outfit and turned to evil, only to be defeated by Kim, who was tipped off by none other than Rufus, on her wedding day. The world rid of evil, and a low GPA, Kim and her new husband lived happily ever after.

He blurted out his dark vision.

Kim practically fell out of her chair as she laughed uncontrollably.

"You laugh now, but you wait and see!" Ron protested.

"Let's get something straight, Zorpox," Kim countered, striving mightily to suppress here urge to start laughing again. "I – love – you. Got it? You're going to have to do lot worse than go to a different school or even turn blue to get rid of me. Okay?"

"Really?"

"Really." To make her point she leaned over and kissed him.

At that moment the tweebs wandered in. It was a stroke of good luck, from their point of view, that Tim was carrying their megaphone.

"Cootie alert! Mrs. Stoppable is kissing Mr. Stoppable in the kitchen! Evacuate now! Evacuate now!"

Kim broke off the kiss, growled "Tweebs" and got up to chase them, but they had made their escape. She returned to her chair and resumed making her point; Ron conceded that perhaps the "other guy" part of his nightmare was unfounded.

But that still didn't allay his worries over the prospect of being separated from Kim. Though his month at Yamanuchi had provided a tremendous growing experience, Ron, now in the comfort of Middleton with Kim by his side, could only remember long days and nights missing her. And then there was the primal fear called Wannaweep. Four years without Kim? He shuddered.

"Another thing, Ron. Why are you assuming I'm going to Harvard?" She pulled a second envelope from the pile and withdrew a catalogue. This one was for Middleton College. "I'm actually planning to apply early decision." Ron couldn't argue with her choice; Middleton was one of the country's top liberal arts colleges. She could see that Ron was curious.

"Ron, my parents, and my uncle, and my grandparents, and my great grandfather all went to Middleton. It's like a family tradition."

"So you'll go to Middleton and I'll go to Upperton?" Ron asked, relieved that they'd at least still be in the same county.

Kim shook her head. "No, Ron. We're both going to Middleton. Or at least we're going to try."

Ron stared at Kim like she'd grown a second head, but she ignored him.

"Let's review the facts," she said, pulling out a piece of paper. "Ron Stoppable: first two and a half years of high school: C average. Second half of junior year: high B. Senior year, taking some honors classes, B+ to A-. That's a good trend. Plus you've done exchange work in Japan. Twice.

"Extracurriculars: Cheer squad; Sunshine Spreaders at the Medical Center; Saving the world with me.

"Other: You've written and performed two hit songs on national TV. Your gift to Dad's space center makes you a major local philanthropist. I am sure that you are the only student in the history of Middleton High School ever to be asked to teach a regularly scheduled class. And you invented the most popular product in the history of a multi-national fast food chain."

"And I'm a bon-diggity dancer!" Ron added, getting into the spirit of things. He'd never quite thought of himself the way Kim obviously did.

Kim smiled indulgently, but continued, not to be deterred. "You can get good references from Sensei, Barkin, and Rabbi Katz, not to mention me.

"I know you can write a great essay and I'll do whatever it takes to prep you to crush the SATs." Kim put down the piece of paper. "Ron, I can't promise you'll get in, but I want you to try. Your grades may not be the best, but how many applicants are going to be able to say they've done the things you've done? The worst that happens is we're at different places for a year, you work really hard and transfer to Middleton; but imagine if you get in! Will you do that for me … Potential Boy?"

Ron looked at Kim and drew confidence from her.

"Yeah, KP, I will. And I'll do it for me, too," he said.

Kim beamed. She didn't say what she was thinking: See, Ron, I really do know what's best for you! Of course, being Kim-with-a-goal, she didn't actually ask Ron whether he wanted to go to Middleton College.

Fortunately, he thought it was a great idea; for once in his life he was happy that Kim was being bossy.

XIX.

Kim was getting dressed for a dinner date with Ron when the Kimmunicator began to chirp.

"What's the sitch, Wade?" she asked

"An intruder at the Acme Widgets warehouse on the edge of town," he reported

"And you're calling me why? This sounds like something for the police," Kim said.

"I think you'll want to see this," Wade replied. His image disappeared, to be replaced by footage from a security camera. The figure in the middle of the picture was clearly Shego. "It gets better, Kim. She's apparently stolen a particle cannon priming device from the High Energy Lab for Physics."

Kim couldn't resist. "So HELP wants help?"

Wade groaned and thought, You've been spending too much time with Ron, but instead answered, "Yes."

"Okay, we're on it. I'll call Ron," she said before ending the cal.

Ron's phone rang; he saw it was Kim's number. Something told him that she was about to call with a change in plans. She didn't disappoint.

Kim took off her black cocktail dress and changed into her Club Banana crop top and cargo pants. Wade was still repairing the damage the Battle Suit incurred in France. She selected her most useful tools, including her compact mirror, her laser lip stick and, of course, the indispensable hair dryer grappler.

Ron pulled into the Possibles' driveway in his new car; he'd been responsible with his prize money but had decided that the Ferretmobile shouldn't be driven everywhere, everyday, and especially on real missions. Ron couldn't bear the thought of telling Mr. North that the Ferretmobile had been blown up by actual bad guys. He wanted to buy a truck, but knew that Kim would give him the environmental responsibility lecture and make him read pamphlets on energy conservation; he rejected a convertible based on the number of times he and Kim in the course of their missions had been in vehicles that flipped over. So he settled on a rugged sport utility wagon. And so Kim would feel it was hers as much as his, he had opted for a vanity plate: TmPssble.

She climbed into the car and Ron drove off.

"You know, KP, I have an unresolved dilemma," he said.

"Oh?" she asked.

"Yes. I can't decide whether you're hotter in the Battle Suit or the mid-riff baring crop top." Ron was wearing a cocky smile.

Kim sat quietly for a moment; Ron wondered if he had gone too far. "Maybe I'll solve your problem by wearing a bikini on our next mission!"

Ron let out a hearty "Boo-yah!"

To which Kim responded, "Oh, if I wear a bikini, you go in the cute green boxers with the polka dots!"

Ron couldn't help but begin laughing at that image; Kim soon joined in.

They soon arrived at the warehouse. They parked on the street and got out; Ron locked the car.

Kim called Wade. "Anything new?"

"No. Shego's still in there. And I'm not sure what she's up to. Be careful."

Ron lifted the hatch on the back of the car and withdrew something.

Kim saw that it was the Lotus Blade. Before her eyes, the sword became a pair of nun-chucks, which Ron was able to tuck into his waistband. She had seen him do it before, but watching him cause the sword to change shape still amazed her.

"Shego's in there; I'm not taking any chances," he said. "There's too much at stake now," he added as he took her hand. She squeezed his in return.

Kim couldn't blame Ron for being cautious. Of all their foes, Shego had been the most dangerous. And now she was operating without the constraint of Drakken's crazy schemes. Shego had been like a marathon runner forced to race with a bag of sand tied to her back; now she would be relieved of that burden.

They quietly made their way into the seemingly abandoned building. The light was dim, but Kim and Ron could make out stacks of crates, and a cat-walk that spanned the interior. It was eerily quiet.

Then, out of the shadows, a figure appeared above them. It was wearing a familiar form-fitting green and black jumpsuit.

"Nice to see you again, Princess," Shego said. "And I see you brought your buffoon, I mean your boyfriend …"

Kim bristled. Ron was too used to the abuse to be bothered anymore.

"… Or wait – is this your boyfriend?" she asked as she was joined by Eric on the cat walk.

Kim gasped, wondering how Shego got a synthodrone? Kim noticed that he was holding a small device – the primer – and that he was smiling at her wickedly. She wanted to wretch as memories of the previous spring returned.

Ron simply wanted to cut off the synthodrone's head and be done with things.

Before either of them could fully recover from the shock of Eric's appearance, Shego spoke again.

"Oh wait," she taunted. "You moved on, didn't you? To someone a little more familiar …" A Ron synthodrone, wearing mission gear, appeared from the shadows.

The faux-Ron spoke. "Yo, KP. Sorry to break the news to you, but I've dumped you for someone else. Someone better."

And at this Bonnie, presumably also a synthodrone, emerged; the syntho-Ron took her in his arms and she began to kiss him.

Kim was feeling ill. It was as if her nightmares were coming to life. Ron was reeling, too. Instinctively, each reached for the other's hand.

"This is sick …" Ron began to say.

"… and wrong," Kim concluded.

Shego clapped, then sneered. "How cute. You're finishing each other's sentences just like an old married couple. But I'm being rude. I still have another friend for you to meet."

Kim's twin emerged.

This Kim, bearing a red chip on her forehead, was wearing a Shego suit. "Hello, Kim," she said cheerily. "Look closely at me. I am your future." Unlike the others, this synthodrone betrayed no sense of individuality, no sense of personality. There was only a bare mid-riff, a mocking nod towards Kim's signature outfit. The syntho-Kim smiled blandly; her large green eyes were vacant. Her sole purpose was to obey and serve. Kim's blood ran cold at Shego's vision for her while Ron was enraged.

"What do you want, Shego?" Kim demanded, shaking with fury, straining to control her emotions. I will not, can not, let Shego play me, she told herself. Not again. Not now!

"Want? I just want a piece of you, Kimmie. It's time to play …"

TBC …