Author Notes:
Disclaimer: I don't own Kim Possible or any other relevant stuff. KP is the property of the Walt Disney Company. My OC Characters are owned by me.
Reviews Q,R & A:
'speedofsoundsonic'
R: 'I would like to say that my review was also negative sounding in hindsight and I apologize because it is now immortalized. My comment "but perhaps others will enjoy it" should simply be "but others will enjoy it" and I don't know what I was thinking, perhaps an envy for your ability to update? There is actually quite a bit of good stuff here for anyone into high school drama, I think. I don't know what other readers like, hence why I talk about what I want out of a story, not what others want. But I will say again, there are a lot of characters. There's also a lot of pitstops to what I think should be a simple story. Ron is gone, Kim isn't doing so hot without a partner. Paul will step in to fill the void. At least that's what I'm getting. I think my problem is the pacing, but at this point, it's not a problem. Paul's anger is unhealthy in my opinion, we will see where this goes. My preference is for quicker payoffs, but the story here is going for a more realistic time frame. Be careful with too many subplots and characters to keep track of, it can be real difficult. The amount of content here is really great though, really strive to keep that up. I will also say that you should never be negative about your own story. If there are flaws you yourself caught, patch them up and make it more intriguing. But as you've said, this is all a prequel to even greater things.'
A: 'You really keep on impressing me 'speedofsoundsonic'. I won't take that previous review as negative. Let's call it ...potential. Perhaps others might read, perhaps others wont. I've noticed a strong view count for the first chapter and around 80% of readers leave. I've put a warning on the first chapter to give feature readers a heads up. I want all the reviews to be immortalised, so those two other guys can put their money where their mouth is. People have different tastes. Everyone isn't going to read the same story and expect to like it. I've got no end goal here to see it achieve 1000 favourites, or 100. The main goal is to create a story, that includes an OC Character into the works of the people of Middleton and see what changes throughout it's timeline and see it from the start to the end. You're right. This is a major story to keep track of. And especially entering new sub plots and multiple changes compared to the original canon. It's important to close each subplot eventually down the track. Sure Ron is gone, but...
Who Knows... Knows... Noses...
Hey I can't give away too much man. Haha.
A lot of people speculating Kim could handle missions without Ron, but I reckon their relationship or partnership balanced each others needs and made the missions successful eventually in the end. Therefore Kim's fab 4 (Wink) she can't keep up with them. Paul filling that void will do wonders and might create opportunities down the track. As for Paul's anger... Well you've come to the right chapter to further stamp your opinion about his character and behaviour. It will tell a lot about him. Might even change your opinion about it. And that's the thing. I don't really want to fast-track this story or it will be pointless. Introduction to an OC and boof, it's finished with 300-500K words, from start to end. This is a big project that I want do in my spare time and try and complete it, where it will feature a few stories and easily hit 1 million words in total and there will be some months where nothing will get updated. So let's take it one month at a time for now and be grateful of the content we're receiving as I'm typing this. I got to admit it's hard work to keep track of. And you're right about trying to make it more intriguing. It's hard without Ron. He's the guy that creates or delivers the punchline and is the butt of the jokes. Madly respecting character though. And you're right. Because the Original show started in Sophomore year, this is a prequel ;)
But in all honesty, you've been really inspiring in the past month. Thank you for the moral booster, reading and investing your time into my story. Please enjoy the next chapter.'
CHECK BIO FOR UPDATES ON FUTURE CHAPTERS
Kim was at her locker, putting away her books and getting her other books for her next class until her personal device played a certain ring.
'Beep-Beep, De-Deep'
Kim hears it and takes out the device out of her pocket, answering the call.
"Hey Wade, what's the sitch?" Kim asks her friend.
"We just got a hit from the Seniors. They've stolen- No, my bad sorry. They've 'paid' for a simulator that develops evil case scenarios in Virtual Reality form. They're probably planning on using it to practise for future plans or further their villainy ways."
"... That's it? Really?" Kim says excepting something big. Well it was big, but it wasn't world ending big.
"Well, they aren't the most threatening duo but it could be vital for the future." Wade says.
"And the mission is to stop what exactly. A machine?"
"Precisely. Stop them from building this simulator. Or destroy it. Either will do. Both would be handy." Wade says.
"Doesn't it seem a bit, I don't know. Futile?"
"Pointless? Yes. They're part of the fab 4." Wade says.
"Don't remind me. Ron should have kept his bright ideas to him self." Kim says recalling the first time she met the Seniors. Oh how that night was a disaster. Worse than Karius in Kiev.
"Don't we all." Wade says recalling that night too.
"Alright. Doesn't seem like a big sitch. But it can be something potential for them to do damage in the future. How long until my ride arrives?"
"About 10 Minutes."
"Great. Thanks Wade" Kim ends the call from Wade. She sighs after ending the call.
She really wished last year Ron kept his mouth shut when dealing with the Seniors for the first time. He gave them ideas after they went on a mission to investigate about a blackout near the coastal areas of Spain, France and Portugal, and the source apparently came from a island around those countries located in the Bay of Biscay.
It belonged to a wealthy retired billionaire by the name of Senor Senior Senior and he lives there with his pride and joy of a son. Senor Senior Junior. He was using a giant tanning lamp which caused the blackouts throughout the costal towns.
A tan! Seriously, have you ever heard of the sun?
Long story short. Ron's big mouth was the cause of them becoming villains and doing evil bidding as a hobby. Notably overseeing their island and mansion, mimicking a real life villain in which there were never had intentions until Ron gave them ideas. Sick I know. But she had a mission in Europe and they had to investigate either way. She regrets that day. But Ron didn't know better. She wished he was more assertive like that in school and towards his homework, instead of causing extra problems for Team Possible.
Maybe it would have never happened if she just had called that favour from Francois and fixed Ron's hair. Oh well, the damage has been done.
Right now, she had a mission. And despite being one of Kim's main nuisances of villains, she still had to go despite them not being as threat or world conquering as the other 3. It was still early in the day and she would need to catch up on her classes. She will need to pick up the classes content and homework she will miss out, while she's gone for the rest of the school day.
She grabs her duffel bag from her locker and heads out for the front door of her school. She most likely won't be back today.
It was currently lunch time at Middleton High and people were eating their lunches in the cafeteria, spending time outside with their friends or playing pass the pig-skin in the yard.
Paul was sitting at his usual table, he was by himself for the time being. He had a few papers surrounding the table. He was writing something down in regards to the government for the school he's attending. He's been persistent in trying to remove the Senior table, which is providing top tier grade food, while the other year levels suffer with poor quality and below standards food in the cafeteria hall. It probably wasn't even safe for human consumption!
Let's give him credit, most people wouldn't care. But he did.
Barkin didn't want anything to do with this.
Paul wasn't going to throw the towel on this issue. That funding could feed everyone in the entire school with good quality food.
Some others want to hog it all for themselves. Specifically speaking, the Senior year level.
Speaking of Barkin. Paul was on a thin wire with him already. He ditched detention the other day and Barkin was stilling aiming to get him. Maybe even something possibly worse than detention.
"Hey Paul. Geez, have you ever heard of a binder?" Josh says taking a seat, holding his lunch.
"Hey Josh, sorry man. I'm trying to organise my paperwork, school work and some notes for other classes all in one go."
"You can say that again."
"I'm trying to organise some paperwork, school work and some notes for other classes all in one go." Paul repeats his previous sentence, smirking towards the blonde teen.
"I was joking." Josh says.
"I know you were." Paul says smiling and chuckling before continuing to write.
Josh slightly laughs getting his joke, "Nice." Monique arrives to the table.
"Hey guys." Monique says taking a seat, both boys say hello to her.
Paul noticed that Monique and Josh were getting a bit attached to each other. He saw them last week at the Starbucks sharing a drink and laugh. He didn't want to ask them about if there relationship was a thing yet.
"Hey, has anyone seen Kim?" Paul says out of the blue.
"I think she went on another mission." Josh says guessing.
"Figures. I wonder when she'll take up on my offer." Paul says. He hoped Kim would eventually come to her senses one day. She can't be saving the world all by herself forever.
"You know, she's been more tired recently. And a bit down as well." Monique says, as Josh nods in agreement
"I'm telling you guys. She needs a partner. Wade told me that she's been over the edge recently. Ever since her friend left, she's been inconsistent with her missions, eventually she'll burn out once the workload increases at school and her missions won't be getting any easier any time soon. These guys are eager to take over the world and numbers are persistent. I think there was 4 main villains? Plus she has obligations with cheerleading and family." Paul says.
"I have to agree with you there Paul. She's soon going to fall behind in school." Monique says caring for her friend.
"Get out of the way losers." A snobby voice calls out.
Paul sighs, knowing exactly who it is. Didn't she know better!
"You know, I'm getting real sick and tired of this girl!" Paul puts down his pen and gets up from his table, and approaches the brunette.
"And you! Why are you sitting on our table?" The bossy girl points at the group of nerds sitting down on the table.
"B-b-because, w-we... uh... have a right to s-sit anywhere we want?" The geek says nervously.
"Wrong! Only people from the high part of the food chain can sit here!" Bonnie says.
"B-bu-but we were here first." The other techie says.
"'B-But we were here first.' I don't care. And if you don't move. My boyfriend will make you move." Bonnie says mimicking the teen before threatening the group of nerds with her boyfriend.
"You really don't show any remorse or leave people alone. Do you Bonnie?" Paul says with his arms folded. He's not happy at the treatment these students were getting from the bitchy brunette.
"Well. If isn't the foreign exchange loser." Bonnie says smirking.
"Real original. Must have taken weeks to come up with." Paul says not amused by her attempt to bring him down with her words.
"Please. Anyone with half a brain cell will consider you a loser." Bonnie says.
"You must have that word tattooed on your brain. Why don't you leave these guys alone." Paul says.
"Oh I will... Once they leave our table... Oh and I won't leave them alone, I'll still pick on them."
"You're truly a low life Bonnie. There's so many tables here inside the cafeteria. Why don't you do me a favour. Or all of us a favour and take a hike." Paul says.
"I wouldn't do that if I was you pal." A voice calls from behind and places a hand on the teens shoulder.
"Oh yeah! And what are you going to- Brick?" Paul says surprised at the person behind him. He then had a realisation on how he knew Bonnie, "Oh god. Please don't tell me your on Bonnie's side." Paul says.
"Actually. He's my boyfriend. Afraid much... Paul?" Bonnie crosses her arms, smiling at the teen. She looks at him smug, but Paul didn't look afraid at all.
Paul stares at the taller teen, "Brick. Why are you doing this? You know this isn't right man." Paul says.
"Sorry Paul, I don't wanna do this man. I think you're a cool dude and all. But Bonnie is my world."
"Enough talk! Sweetie, why don't you teach our uncultured friend about the American way."
Brick really didn't want to beat up Paul. He actually liked talking to him. Even though they had one encounter.
Paul stares down at the bigger teen. Paul lays down the line, "I don't wanna fight you Brick."
"I wouldn't wanna fight me neither." Brick says.
"That doesn't even make any sense!" Paul says, "Alright. I'm going to just give you one chance. Please stand down now. I don't want to hurt you." Paul gives him a ultimatum. He will hurt him, despite being shorter and less muscular than the older teen.
"Look man. I don't want to hurt you bro. You seem like a good guy." Brick says in all honest.
"Brick!" Bonnie says, after her supposedly boyfriend saying his a good guy, much to her hatred.
"Sorry Bon. But no one gets in the way of my girlfriend."
"And what! To make these guys leave this table? There's plenty of others around if you haven't noticed." Paul gestures around the half empty cafeteria. Or half full?
"But this is our spot!" Bonnie spits out.
"So what! You should find yourself another spot. They came first, they've got the right to sit here. You should really stop acting like a bitch Bonnie. That's all I seen you do s-WHAMM!"
Brick sucker punches Paul on the template area, he never saw it coming. A lot of people gasp, some of the jocks cheer him on. Monique and Josh gasped and where in a state of shock, who saw from a distance, stand up immediately and go nearby the teen. People would believe that no one could be standing after that punch.
...
But in fact...
It was a miracle!
Paul was still standing up, he only moved a few inches from the spot he was punched from. He touches the area he just got punched. No blood or cuts. Not even a bruise.
He begins laughing slightly. The other onlookers think he's gone mad. He looks around and still laughs, he begins to approach slightly towards the blonde jock.
"Did you just punch me bro?" Paul says grinning pointing towards the area Brick punched.
"I think so." Brick says as he tries to throw another punch, but Paul dodges his attempt. He saw it coming from miles. He was ready. Brick threw another punch. And another! But Paul dodges with ease.
He then grabs a punch with his palm, pushing it back, before retaliating and throwing successful body and face shots at the blonde teen. He was going in hard. He punched him unexpectedly, so Paul retailed with some powerful blows back to him.
"No one." Paul punches his liver.
"Punches" Paul punches his stomach.
"Me!" Paul punches his peck.
"CHEAPLY!" Paul yells out as he punches his template area multiple times, changing fists and throwing fast punches.
With Brick on the ropes, he's struggling to stay up on his feet. He keeps on throwing punches, before Brick was on his his knees. Paul then throws a big punch towards his ribs making a...
"CRACKK!"
"ARGHHHH! My Ribs!" Brick calls out in agonising pain, holding his ribcage. Bonnie gasps, she was shocked that such a small looking compared to a taller and stronger guy, got knocked down so easily! She runs towards him worried, being near his side.
"Broken Rib. 6-8 weeks to recover. I told you not to fight me." Paul says from a distance. He felt bad doing it, but in all fairness, he was strongly against bullying. Looks like he won't be asking for tutoring lessons any time soon from the teen. He really wanted to help him out after he had to repeat Junior year again.
Paul stares behind him and sees a bunch of jocks heading towards him. They weren't cheering anymore and had a look of anger on their faces.
"Oh great. The fucking cavalry has arrived." Paul says.
"Hey dude, what's your beef with Brick?"
"My problem? The guy punches me for calling his girlfriend a bitch. She needs to be put in line. I despise people like that." Paul says angrily.
"I don't care about no spies. But I can reassure you one thing. You mess with Brick, you mess with our table. You mess with us. Let's get him boys!" The blonde boy says cracking his knuckles.
Oh boy! 6 older and tougher boys vs a Freshman. What an advantage...
..
NOT!
"(Sighs) They always go for the hard way." Paul murmurs to himself, readying himself for a big battle. He had to concentrate.
Two guys came charging at Paul and he instantly decked one with a punch to the face. Really? That was it? Running towards him would really throw off his game.
The other teen throws punches towards his head, but Paul dodged them and throws body shots, after almost 10 seconds of blow after blow the jock teen is winded and wincing on the floor in pain.
The other 4 teens stare at the teen in disbelief. Paul beckons them with his right hand. He knew that they weren't going to stop until they were scared of him or throw in a white flag. But male teens don't know when to stop and they keep their pride high and their fears where no one can see them. Right now. Both were on for show for everyone to see. And Paul wasn't afraid to take them on.
All 4 of them run towards him, one throws a punch but misses badly, Paul slams his elbow at the back of his head and down he goes. Two approach him from both sides and get in a few body shots towards the teen. It wasn't anything serious that will hurt him or give him pain afterwards.
"Josh, help him out!" Monique pleads.
Paul retreats a few steps back and spots a broom and a bucket nearby.
He grabs the broom spinning it around within his hand and hits a teen on the head with the broom, before punching two others. Paul runs towards a jock and tackles him head first in his abdomen and slams him against a wall.
He falls unconscious after that heavy hit.
He punches another teen, but he is still standing. Paul goes again. The other teen wouldn't give up. He was on his knees and slowly tries to get, with wobbly legs, Paul shows some mercy and pushes him down slightly with the end of the broom
The jocks were making him look like a world class fighter. His punches were powerfully and nobody could tell if they were laid by a Freshman.
"Them or Paul?" A shocked Josh says. Monique too was shocked, how in the blue hell was he this good at fighting?
There was one teen left. Paul squares him down, holding the broom.
"I don't know why you can't just let us be!" The teen wearing a letterman jacket says referring to the Seniors table. It was the same guy who told him not to try anything on this first day of school.
He took a few punches from the teen and was still standing. He spits on the floor, "I'll admit you got guts kid. But too bad I've got to bruise them when I'm done with you." A random kid with a towel wipes down the floor where the teen spat.
Paul stares at him, holding the broom. He walks towards the teen, the other follows too
Both were less than a few meters away from each other, The older teen was ready to punch the lights out of him, holding both of his arms southpaw positioned. He's about to throw a punch but Paul swings first, knocking down like a sack of potatoes. Paul stares at the teen, he looks unconscious with blood leaking out of his mouth. He stares around at the destruction he's caused.
All of this... for a table!
"Let this be a lesson to you guys." Paul breathes steadily again, pointing the broom towards the fallen jocks as he tosses it away.
"What even are you! How are you even this strong?" Bonnie says, as she stands up from a heavily wounded Brick dropping his head on the floor. Whether it was on purpose or not remains the question. Being her, she probably didn't care.
She points towards the teen in anger, "You did this to my boyfriend and his friends! You're going to pay dearly!" Bonnie says.
Paul walks up to her being a few inches away from her.
"I. Specially. Told. Him. Not to fight me. Can't comprehend basic English, not my problem. Besides I condemn bullying. That wasn't bullying. That was fighting back and defending myself."
"He's not even smart. That's why he failed Junior year! You listen here you- you... Freak-" Bonnie says.
"NO! You listen to me and listen good. You can't boss around people like that. People like you are the pit of the world!" Paul interrupts the brunette.
The centre stage was now on Bonnie and Paul. With all eyes focused on them.
"All I've heard from you is, talk shit about her, bully her, bully him, move out of the way, loser loser loser lo- Shut the fuck up!" Paul says.
Bonnie was shocked after he swore at her, the fear was slowly building up inside of her. All the other students look on.
"I've heard enough from you and your stupid shit. Bonnie Rockwaller. I'm going to say this once and only once... You're despicable! Your parents would be a shamed of yo- LOOK AT ME WHEN I'M TALKING TO YOU!"
Paul clinches his teeth. Bonnie was staring at something else. He was angry as Bonnie now was staring at him.
"They're not the losers Bonnie. You! are the loser Bonnie, you put people down to make yourself feel better about yourself. But inside of you, there's a void making you do that!" Paul says to her.
"I'm no-" Bonnie says quietly. She looked so embarrassed.
"I don't think you deserve an input. I think your peers should tell you the right thing to do. Either that or you can go fuck yourself!" Paul says.
"CONIGILOPOULOS!" An angry voice shouts out
"IT'S KANELLOPOULOS! NOT CANO- Oh my god, just forget it. JUST GET IT RIGHT!" Paul now was angry and breathing heavily.
"MY OFFICE! RIGHT! NOWWW!" Barkin yells at the teen.
"With pleasure!" Paul shouts back at him, he heads towards the table he sitting at, quickly packs up his stuff. He head towards the cafeteria double doors, staring down at Bonnie on his way out and exits the cafeteria.
Both Monique and Josh were absolutely shocked what they just saw. Everyone in the cafeteria had their heart beats risen after that fight and rant
Paul... A Freshman. Stood up against, Brick and his pals. 7-0. Beating them up, one by one and Bonnie...
Got told! Badly. No one has ever done anything like that to the cheerleader. No one in Middle School would have done anything like that to her. Kim would have given her a piece of her mind, but nothing that loud or deserving with a centre stage like that.
But he did. And didn't hold back for one second. She truly deserved it.
He was truly a warrior when it came to fighting. A performance that would make boxing greats smile beyond the grave.
Boy. Kim Possible missed quite a show!
Paul was waiting inside Barkin's office. Paul had his hands intertwined and had a neutral face. He was waiting for Barkin to enter in his office.
He already bailed out on detention a few days ago after Barkin wouldn't allow him to do his homework during detention. Paul was really angry at this. He knew he wouldn't get off easy. Especially Barkin being a hard nut, but he really didn't care. Why you ask? Well when you've got nothing to lose. You got nothing to lose.
Plus he knew this was coming, he'd avoid Barkin for the past 48 hours or so, while he was patrolling the halls during class changes. Todays major altercation in the cafeteria just rubbed more salt into his wound. It bit back at him big time today and would just increase the punishment that Mr Barkin would issue to the teen. He knew detention was off the cards. Probably something worse off... like suspension. Or even Expulsion.
The door opens up, Paul definitely knows who it was. He didn't even turn around to acknowledge that person. Barkin closed the door and proceeds to lock it.
He straightens his suit and tie, walking towards his chair. He straighten up a few documents on his desk. before he starts to speak.
"Canelopoulos. You're in a heap of trouble mister. You put in a complaint about the food that's produced in the cafeteria. You skipped out on detention. And now you beat up one third of the football team! You've hit the trifecta! Do you have anything to say for yourself?" Barkin says to the teen.
Paul stares at him, followed by looking down on the table dusting it off and proceeds to respond back. "Sooo... basically you're denying me. My education, nutrition levels as a teenager in one of the most obese countries and you put bullying over the students of the school? Real class. Real classy sir." Paul says listing the things being denied at this school.
"Don't get yourself out of this Collegopulos! You're not getting out of this one easily. You could be be easily suspended. Or even worse. Expelled, you punk!" Barkin says in a serious tone.
Paul leans forward to the teacher, "Go ahead... I don't care." Paul leans back in his chair.
Barkin was taken back by the teens comment, "You don't care? What do you mean you don't care! You're suppose to care."
Paul gives a slight chuckle, "Mr Barkin. Look at me. I'm an outsider. Whether you suspend me or expel me. I'm still going to study no matter what. You think I'm going to lounge around at home and not study. I will enrol myself to the next school until this program is over. I'm missing my family the most. Do you have any idea what it's like to be far away from your loved ones?" Paul says.
"N- Well yes.. Yes I do. But don't change the subject Canofcornopoulos!"
"See! That's not even a real name! That's just a short sentence with Opoulos at the end" Paul says now his patience wearing thin, "Like seriously. It's Kanellopoulos. Kan-ello-opoulos. It's easy to remember if you repeat it 10 times in your head or out loud."
"Well I'm trying my best." Barkin admits. But Paul wasn't having it.
"Well if you're having a hard time pronouncing it. Just call me Paul."
"Look... (Tsk) I'll bite. You're an exceptional student, I've heard amazing feedback with the work and effort you put into all your subjects, but your actions today require punishment. Therefore I hereby suspended you for the rest of the school week." Barkin announces his punishment to the teen.
Paul has never been suspended before, but has had a few run ins with people back at his school before, but never suspension. Heck he nearly got suspended for a haircut once. If this was back at home, he actions would have of coursed been sanctioned on the record but suspension for preventing bullying? Pathetic. Really poor.
"Go ahead. Suspend me. I'll still learn from home. My suspension is a reminder that bullying isn't strongly against school staff. As long as no one was harmed by those bullies today in the cafeteria, I'm a happy man. But deeply disappointed that you let bullying occur in this establishment you call a school." Paul says.
"Even if you retaliated with violence." Barkin asks raising his eyebrow.
"When the first punch is thrown. You must always defend yourself sir." Paul says
"But I don't get it. Why defend someone else?" Barkin says.
...
"Why defend yourself." Paul says softly, before speaking up "Why def- You didn't learn a thing in the military did you sir!" Paul says baffled that Barkin even said what he just said to the teen.
Paul begins to speak again "You wanna know why! I'll give you an example." Paul rises out of his chair. "Food chains! People think schools are like food chains! There's a bunch of different groups. When a fish tries to join a group that they don't belong in, they attack that fish. Same rules apply here at this school. The tech group or as others would call them... nerds. They get treated like nothing else. Today I stood up against those jocks, because of a freaking table in the cafeteria. Everyone deserves equal rights here at schools, no matter their appearance, looks, class or status! No group should be put down because of popular groups or cliques."
Barkin was starting to realise and understand Paul's scenario.
"Bullying is an absolute joke these days, before younger students would get picked on, mentally and physically abused by others. Now these days it's all online. Trolls and people who want to be a big coward over a 6 inch screen! Because they haven't got the balls to say stuff like that to their faces. I don't care if I get suspend, as long as the person or group of people, who I protected is safe from harm. Do what you will!" Paul says.
Barkin now was starting to see the bigger picture. He started to realise something. Had he been so blind this entire time. Or had he been sloppy and let everything slip through his hands for so long?
"In the military, you go overseas to defend your country to protect people and serve, so younger generations live an easier life and don't have to experience war. But it's a sacrifice people are willing to make when they join. That's called patriotism. What you described about defending others goes against your code. You protect your peers and squad. You're willing to help them out! Not let someone beat them to death and turn a blindside and act like it never happened!" Paul says. He breathes in some air and fixes himself up. Composing himself before taking a seat back down into his chair.
"So go ahead. Suspend me. Just please protect the little guy! Or it will be blood on your hands one day. Trust me. One day you'll get that knock on your door. You'll have to explain to their parents, something that you never want to say or witness in your lifetime and it won't be pretty. And you god damn know exactly what I mean by that sir." Paul ends his long rant and let's Barkin process everything he said and let him have a chance to respond.
Barkin had to think about this. He was now starting to feel guilty. He's right...
"I... I know what you mean, by protect the little guy. You're right. You're absolutely right Paul... I'm sorry for not understanding the situation until now. I feel like a total idiot. I'm sorry for overreacting before and yelling at you." Barkin says apologising to the teen.
Paul was surprised Barkin was trying to reason with him.
"That's alright... I have to apologies as well. I'm sorry to for yelling back and the use of profanity towards a student. I usually don't use it unless I'm angry or frustrated."
"I accept. I also too understand being far away from family."
"You do?" Paul says.
"... It was 2003. Two years prior the twin towers that collapsed. I was enlisted to go to Iraq and fight for my country."
FLASHBACK TO 2003
A younger version of Steve Barkin is shown in a desert environment with clear blue skies, dressed in a camouflage uniform walking around the camp.
'I was stationed 10 Kilometres North of Jai-Alai, it was the peak of the invasion.'
'There was a lot of young troops that enlisted looking for a challenge, friends, money or they had nothing else to do besides playing snake all day on their Nokia.'
A young soldier is holding a big semi-auto gun and shoots at a target from the distance. He begins shooting and violently vibrates alongside with the gun, Barkin holds him steady, until he leaves and gets a large sack of turnips and places it behind the troop to avoid him from moving. He gives a thumbs up and smile, Barkin nods in approval.
'I was an exceptional private, I moved up the ranks quite quickly in a short amount of time. I was Sergeant for my group within a matter of 5 days.'
Barkin enters a tent and sees three guys. One of them is a short to medium really bulky guy with short hair and a goatee, one is a big guy with a African-Canadian background, he had a unibrow and had a buzz cut and the last one is a short guy looking quite skinny with medium brown hair.
'I remember all the names of my group. Wendell, Norbert and Seymour! They were the 3 damn best men I've ever wished for in my crew.'
Barkin and his crew and firing guns inside the villages of the town. Alongside with other groups. Barkin tosses a grenade, while he crew sits back behind waiting for movement.
"Go Go Go!" Younger Barkin says to his crew.
'What happened to them?' Paul asks.
'They all moved on after the war. One's a principal, I heard one of them apparently got killed in action. And the other one was a chef for a reality tv show. Something Total Karma. I don't watch much of reality shows.'
'Do you still see them?' Paul says curiously. A reunion is always a great idea to organise.
'In all honesty. No. I do miss them though. It would be great to catch up with them and reminiscence the good old days. That's if they are still around. Anyway, it was a long intensive battle to get by. Days felt like weeks. Weeks felt like Months. Months felt like years.'
Next thing you know everyone is celebrating in the night sky desert with bonfires everywhere, drinking and smoking cigars.
'And it was in reality only 43 days' Barkin says.
'Oh so Bush must have declared the end of the invasion' Paul adds.
'That's right and you know the rest. Right?'
'For sure, I'm great with history, especially recent history.' Paul says.
'Excellent, I think it's time to end the flashback.'
"After the Iraq Invasion ended, I went back home, and served another 2 terms. I eventually become a lieutenant until 2007. It felt great to have such a decorative and high rank. That's when I got a job here at Middleton High. And work part-time at the Smarty Mart. I only saw my family for 6 months during that 4 year period. I know it's nothing compared to being away from home at a much younger age without seeing them, but I know what you're going through. It's a tough thing."
"I know that feeling sir. You actually work two jobs?"
"You've gotta work hard in life Paul." Barkin says.
"That's true. Make ends meet."
"Exactly. Plus the benefits...I've got admit. In all my 12 years of at this school. I've told no student about my story." Barkin admits.
"Well.. I feel honoured you told me, and you're not alone. Many men experience PTSD."
"Yeah. It can be a hard to overcome, but I get through it." Barkin says.
"That's good. So what made you become a teacher?" Paul asks.
"Sub teacher."
"What made you want to be a sub-teacher?" Paul asks curiously.
Barkin was quiet for a few seconds, "I honestly can't remember a time when I didn't want to be a sub-teacher. I wanted to do something that involved in education. I always had a passion for baking, selling housewares and designing houses. When I was younger, my father sent me to military school. It taught me to toughen up and become obedient. I'm very similar to my father. I see him quite a bit. He's the mayor of Port Mystic Cove Haven. So yeah. But I always wanted to go into education and teach others as much as I can handle. I can teach almost any class."
"That's good to hear you've done a lot with yourself. It's a shame though." Paul says.
"Why's that?" Barkin asks.
"I think you'd make a great interior designer." Paul says smiling
Barkin give a small out of breath laughs# at Paul's joke. For the first time he actually enjoyed talking to a student and he wanted to continue the conversation, "What about you? I know you're a foreign exchange student and all, but what's your story? What made you sign up for this program?"
"Well I actually didn't sign up for anything. You see sir, I was 1 of the 100 students chosen to participate in the program out of 1 million students across my country. My father being the stubborn father he was tried to sue the school and government. And what father wouldn't let his son go overseas and disrupt his life for two whole years. Not many would, but he did it because he loves me. You can't put a price on your loved ones. They gave a choice for my family to join me or go by myself. And they all had their lives in Melbourne, so I couldn't let them stop their lives for 2 years. The only good part is the compensation I'm receiving from the government. Other than that, I've had a great time meeting some new people from time to time.."
"I'm sorry to hear that you were let down by your government." Barkin says with sympathy.
"I've gotten over it. What can I say, just let the next 2 years roll by. And enjoy the most of my time here in America."
"You got that right. Say uh Paul. Could you do me a favour-"
"Not tell anyone about this conversation. Yeah sure. I will still tell everyone you haven't gone soft yet." Paul says interrupting his teacher, he gave a small grin. He realised he had a soft spot.
"Don't push your luck. Also I hereby reverse my decision in regards to your suspension. And your detention... I'm afraid you still have to attend after school today. Steve Barkin is tough but fair. And those boys who tried to take you down today will be sanctioned too." Barkin says. Paul was better than he was before. More happier.
"I guess that's fair due to what I did today." Paul says thinking about all those he wounded today.
"However, I will grant that from now on, homework can be completed during detention. I figured I won't be denying anyone their education on school campus. I thought about what you said and I thought detention is supposed to be a punishment and reflect on what you've done to end up there. But I now realise that 45 minutes of studying is better than doing nothing at all."
"That's great to hear!"
"And... (Sighs) I'll see what I can do about the Seniors Table. But no guarantees!" Barkin says making no promises.
"Gee. Thank you sir." Paul says gratefully.
"No problem. I thought about what you said and maybe... it's better to give to all then only a few. But I'll only do it for the greater good."
"That's fantastic, thank you so much for taking it to consideration."
"Well, it's the least I can do. But you won't go off easily next time! Consider this to be your first and only warning. If I see something that's not related to bullying, I will have to take evasive action."
"Right. So I've got to ask. What type of military were you in?"
"The Marine corps. I was lieutenant. I got that during my second term."
The two continued to talk for a long time. For the first time in Barkin's teaching career, he actually enjoyed talking to a student.
Kim parachuted down onto an island located in the Bay of Biscay, Wade hooked her up with a ride.
She was now heading towards the mansion, home of the Seniors. She approached towards the massive house and hears construction workers assembly something. Most likely the simulator. He must of got the workers to build it outside of his home.
A older looking male with a slight hunch is overseeing some blueprints and admires the progress of the soon to be built simulator.
He can suddenly feel a presence behind him. He knew it could only be one person. Two people in fact, but he didn't know until he turned around fully to register that it was only Kim that was behind him.
"Ah, Kim Possible. So nice of you to show up. Where is your partner Ron Stoppable?" Senor Senior Senior says.
"He took a long break. It's only me now." Kim responds.
"Wonderful. I take that you're here to stop my beloved VREvilSimulator3001. Ain't she beautiful. Care for some tea?" The man says politely.
"You were always good at guessing and no thank you. I'm fully hydrated after that plane ride." Kim says to the friendly villain.
"Well Miss Possible. I always give a chance for you and your colleague to stop my evil plan, but today is a bit of a different case."
"Father Father, Kim Possible she- Oh she's already here." His son says running towards hid dad, but saw the red head heroine.
"I know my son. I was just about to show our guest our court order." SSS Says
"What court order?" Kim asks curious and confused.
"What court order father? For the last time father, I told you, that the Karaoke bar in Germany reinstated my membership card." Junior says after he was almost banned for his singing. Correction. Awful singing.
"It's not about that Junior. You'll see. Jean! It's time. The papers please." Senor Senior Snr gestures towards a man wearing a striped blue suit to come forward. He's holding a large set of A4 documents.
"Bonjour." A French Accent lawyers says introducing himself. "I Jean de Brinon, have a court order zat, Senor Senior, Snr and his son, Senor Senior, Jnr have got permission from judge Robert Fuster, that they are allowed to have this zimulator operating at full capacity. According to this court order, they are herby allowed to have it on their island. Anyone caught destroying, tampering or involvement with a certain red-head teen. Must be prosecuted at once." The French accent lawyer hands the papers the red-head teen.
She takes them and begins to read it inside her head.
"Private Property. Legal! A fine of 750,000 Euros!" Kim mutters a few words before being shocked at the price of the fine.
"You can't put a price on technology." The old man points out.
"Now zat I've given her the paperwork. Can I go back home now sir?" The lawyer asks the older man.
"You may Jean. The helicopter will take you back to France."
"Thank you. Senor, Senor. Mademoiselle Kim." The lawyer boards onto the helicopter and departs off the island.
"So you see Miss Possible, I'm allowed to use this simulator with my son and there's nothing you can do to stop it. But next time I'll make it much easier for you. After all, you give your foes a chance to strike back." SSS says. He is very polite and always let's Kim and Ron have a chance to stop them when it comes to his not-so evil plans. He was a fair villain. Too fair actually.
"Father I won't be using this contraption." Junior says pointing towards the massive simulator.
"Nonsense my son. We must practice your villainy skills. If you do. I'll buy you a Mall."
"But I've already got one of those." SSJ whines.
"A Dubai Mall."
Junior brightens up after hearing the word 'Dubai', "Deal! Sorry Kim Possible. It looks you won't be joining me."
"You can't be serious. I travelled all the way here to just get told by a lawyer that if I touch or destroy this, I'll be placed under arrest?" Kim continues to check for any flaws within the court order.
"Yes I'm serious. Yes and unfortunately yes. Sorry about the inconvenience travelling all the way here for nothing. I know it's a long trip back home. I can always get you a ride home for all of your trouble."
"B-but. But. But!" Kim stammers and exclaims in outrage.
The older man just shrugs and lifts his hands up in the air.
Kim lets out a loud yell in anger. Both boys flinched after hearing her yell. She wasted her time coming out all the way from America to an island off Europe and leaving school to just be told by a lawyer that she can't do anything to stop this simulator.
What the Seniors had was perfectly legal.
And a court order to prove otherwise.
She forcefully gives the papers to Junior which surprises him and storms off from the duo and pulls out her Kimmunicator device, likely to contact Wade and get her a ride home. The rest of the workers were continuing to assemble the simulator in the background. The yell didn't even bother them.
"Father, why is she so angry?" Junior says
"Well you see son, women have these... things-"
"I'M NOT ON MY PERIOD!" Kim yells back while walking off.
"I stand corrected my son. I was dead wrong." The old man says.
"Okay sir, you have a good day. See you later on in detention." Paul says as he exits Barkin's office. The two had a lengthy chat. Some probably would say Barkin was his favourite student. But he didn't like to have favourites.
"No problem Paul you take care now." Barkin says.
"Thanks. Oh! By any chance that I can come to detention at 3:05PM?"
"Denied." Barkin says.
"Or I can ask the teacher that I have during my last class to leave 5 minutes early, because detention starts a 3PM on the dot."
Barkin thinks about this, he rather him not finish class 5 minutes earlier and have spare time. This is regarding all students. "Granted."
Paul smiles and thanks him. He farewells Barkin and attends his next classes.
Later on throughout the day, the final bell rang at 3PM, Paul exits the classroom and goes towards his locker, after a few seconds he notices two teens staring at him.
"Ah! Geez. Why do you have to startle me like that guys?" Paul says.
"What happened with you and Barkin?" Monique says.
"Did he suspend you?" Josh says worried.
"Don't tell me he expelled you! We just got you. You can't leave so soon." Monique says.
"Woah! Guys chill. I didn't get expelled. I just only got detention only." Paul says.
"Only Detention! For what you did? But I heard Barkin was supposed to be a strict but fair guy?" Monique says shocked he only got detention. His actions required a big punishment.
"He let me off with a final warning. But he said he was going to do something in regards to bullying at this school. He might even remove the imported food going to the Senior Table."
Both other teens stare at each other surprised. What he did today was noble, but violent. Plus was it really necessary to use that much violence? Plus he could have gotten hurt today. But he came out unscathed.
"Those group of boys sitting at the table were about to get hurt today if I didn't step in to help. Kim would have done the same thing if she was here." Paul says.
"You're right. I just didn't know you were so against bullying. It's a major issue in today's generation. Face-to-face and online. We're both proud that you stood up against all those guys today. I was right about when I said you don't go down easily." Josh says praising him and foreshadowing he's words for the day before, when he stood up against Barkin after receiving a rather unordinary detention from him.
"Thanks and of course I would stand up against to those guys. No matter the size." Paul says.
"Well at least someone cares. I can't wait to tell Kim about this. She would be happy that Bonnie told by you!" Monique says.
Paul paused and thought about this. Telling Kim about what he did today is great and all. But telling her that a guy younger and less stronger than older students he took down really brings out a different side of him. He actually didn't want to tell her about this... yet. She would totally freak out if she saw what he did. It would make her reconsider picking Paul, he wouldn't have a clue how she would react at this. It's better to hear it from the horses mouth rather from a second or third source. Then there's the gossip of course.
"Uh, Monique? That won't be necessary." Paul says.
"What do you mean boy? You did something great today, despite all of the trouble you caused, those boys were aiming to hurt you. Kim needs to hear about your skills and the good deed you did. Bonnie also tried to talk smack towards you. And you told her straight! Kim would have loved that. She might even take you alongside with her on missions."
"True Monique, but she'll think that I'm crazy or something. That's why I'll tell Kim when it's a good time to tell her."
"When though?" Monique asks.
"In due time."
"But what's the point? She's bound to hear it soon than later. 70% of the school's gossip gets leaked." Monique says.
"If she finds out. She finds out. It's out of my hands. But I don't want to freak her out about what happened today. I promise I'll talk to her about everything that happened." Paul says assuring the two teens.
"Speaking of today... Where did you learn to fight like that?" Josh says curious how the teen fought off those bigger guys with ease.
"My grandfather taught me boxing from a young age. Nothing compared to martial arts, but it's something to defend myself with." Paul admits.
"Wow. Those guys were twice as strong." Josh says.
"Strength isn't everything Josh. It's about technique, skill and most importantly practice. It's important not to lose control and bring out your aggression. I know it looked like I get aggressive or have an unhealth attitude towards Bonnie in recent times, but the truth is, I hate people that bring down others, I respect, take care and back up my friends. No matter what. So that's why I get angry at these certain things. Back to strength. Most don't know what they're packing." Paul says knocking on his arm. Concealed under his blue jacket.
"They didn't even stand a chance." Monique says.
"You never know, I'm pretty good though. Not the best though. It takes years to become the best. But anyway, I would love to talk, but I've got detention to go to. Barkin will add more detention for every minute I'm late. Oh, one last thing. Are you guys dating?" Paul asks curiously. He didn't hear anything in the past few weeks since seeing them at Starbucks, so he broke the ice.
"Uh, we (Laughing nervously) you see. Er, not yet."
"Uh, well, (Laughing nervously) you see. Er, Us?"
"Not yet!" Josh says, "I thought we were?" Both were stammering at the same time like a bunch of fools.
"You did?" Monique says.
"Okay. It seems like you too are having some major miscommunication vibe going on here. Congrats though to the both of you. I hope it works out well for the long term. I've really got to go. Ciao." Paul says shaking both teens hand and waving goodbye.
"Wait! How did you know?" Monique calls out.
"Oh, so you are dating." Paul turns around while walking backwards. Smiling at the future couple, before walking towards detention.
"Paul this isn't funny!" Monique says.
"So that was our first date? ..." Josh says thinking whether the hangout at Starbucks was their first date.
Paul was in detention completing homework. Something now he's allowed to do inside the detention room, which a few days ago was denied. He was alongside the three other casual detentionees. Big Mike, Junior and Vinnie, who too were trying to complete whatever homework they had. Two of them were struggling a bit. While Vinnie was doing well.
Barkin was stamping some papers. He stands up and address the group of 4, "I'll be back in 2 minutes. Nobody talk while I'm gone!", Barkin exits the room.
All boys continued to work in silence.
"PSSTT" A noise can be heard behind Paul.
Paul stops writing and turns around. It came from either Bike Mike or Junior.
"Hey. Can you help me out dude?" Junior says eagerly.
"What is that you need help with?" Paul asks.
"My work." Junior says.
"Which subject?" Paul asks.
"Maths." Junior specifies.
"Okay, I can only help you work it out. I can't give you the answer."
"Alright, seems fair." Junior says, he shows Paul the equation.
'5(- 3x - 2) - (x - 3) = - 4(4x + 5) + 13'
'Basic Algebra' Paul says inside his head.
"Okay. Basically we multiply the factors. The 'x' we multiply with the number at the beginning of the brackets. If there's no number just open the bracket and reverse the minus to a plus. Remember, two minus signs become a positive."
Two of the boys made a funny face. Like they heard something out of the ordinary.
"Then we get '-15x - 10 - x + 3 = - 16x - 20 + 13', then we group the numbers. Minus 'x' goes into -15, then becomes -16x. -10 becomes -7. On the other side, we don't touch the 'x' term and instead just add 13 to-."
"20?" Big Mike says a bit unsure.
"-20" Paul corrects the big teen.
"Why?" Junior asks.
"It's minus 20, because the equation was times -4x by 5, therefore it becomes -20. One negative and one positive, always results the answer being negative."
"Right." Junior says.
"So then it becomes, '-16x -7 = -16x - 7'"
"Wait, there both the same." Junior realises.
"Yes."
"So that means it's 0=0" Vinnie calls out.
"Correct Vinnie." Paul says.
"Wait, minus and minus equals positive and positive and positive equals minus." Junior says.
"You've got that first part right. But no. Two positive signs don't turn into a minus answer with Algebra. But a positive and negative equation can turn out to be negative." Paul says.
Junior writes down Paul's working out.
"I never thought I'd say this, but this isn't half bad. Can you do one more for us." Junior asks nicely.
"Sure." Paul says as he goes through another algebra equation for the boys. Although a certain teacher comes through the room holding a paper shredder.
"I thought I said-" Barkin stops talking, as he sees all four boys surrounding a desk watching Paul solve their maths problem. These boys are the usual three students in this room after school, one of them is smart enough to do his own work, while the other two weren't really the brightest bunch. Especially Big Mike.
Barkin couldn't believe that Big Mike and Junior were taking an interest in learning.
"Now you have to carry the 2 over to the other side of the equal sign." Paul says explaining to the boys, slowly wrapping their head around the content. The boys nod their head understanding.
Barkin gives a small grin of his face. There's hope for these boys after all. He walks back to his desk, continuing to file papers. He soon gets the shredder and starts putting selective papers through. He let's the boys continue working together as a group.
He complained about not able to do homework in detention, and has managed to get two boys to get invested in learning. Barkin made a right call about homework.
Maybe detention wasn't so bad after all.
Author Notes:
- I'm aware most of the background stories of how Kim Possible meet her villains aren't that good, but at least I can try my best with those scenarios.
- The Seniors (AKA Senor Senior Snr & Senor Senior Jnr) They are probably the least threatening out the five in the series. Like how can you be so bored you have to resort to being a villain as a hobby. Like you've got so much money dude, you can do so many other hobbies, that are much more fun and entertaining. Seriously.
- The part about Kim meeting the Seniors, I had to redirect that Ron didn't change his looks and instead both were in France for a different reason, hence Kim regret not calling a favour from Francois about Ron's hairstyle. Linked to episode 'The New Ron'.
- If people are a bit confused, the show was set around 2002-2005. The plot for the Fanfiction here is set in 2020. No COVID Happened in this timeline. Plus a lot of different plots will change compared to 2002-2007 events to event like now. You'll get the gist of it down the track.
- Karius in Kiev was the 2019 Champions League Final. Karius was concussed after receiving an elbow to the head. He continued to play goalkeeper and made two critical mistakes which made Liverpool lose 3-1 against Real Madrid. I like to use soccer analogies. If you're not a fan of it, let me know in the comments.
- Also, those 3 characters Steve Barkin mentioned in his group, are actually in fact real cartoon characters;
- Wendell is Wendell Barrage from the show Detentionaire. The principal of A Nigma High
- Norbert is Norbert Cheffory (Chef) Hatchet from the series Total Drama. Chris McLean's psychotic sidekick and best buddy.
- Seymour is in-fact, Walter Seymour Skinner from the show The Simpsons. The principal of Springfield Elementary School. I was originally going to use the name Armin Tamzarian in the story, but apparently that's non-canon in the show. Didn't know that until last week.
- Heads up. There will be a few crossover parts throughout the series. I will break them down within the AN if you don't recognise them.