Hello again, sorry for the delay but real life, a failing computer and other stuff beyond our control have further intruded on the cycle of posting chapters for this tale. But nevertheless we press on to continue this story of the sitch between Kim and Ron, since Graduation.

Before we get to the latest chapter we'd like to thank the following for their Reviews, Faves, Alerts and Follows: Sentinel103, Jimmy1201, Uberscribbler, Sword of The Azure Rain, levi2000a1, Beckman, Drakonis Aurous, Paradoxreader (as Guest: Interesting questions there, but for now Kim's not going to consider losing Ron to Yori. But eventually there will be something of that later.), JaingSkirata and InfiniteEntropy, thank you all for chiming in last time.

And speaking of last time, while the Middleton Entourage made their way to Japan to 'reacquire' a lost piece of high tech aircraft, Ron and his persistent suitor made their way to some high altitude snow adventures. The upshot is that while Kim and Company were getting clearance to prove ownership of the flying machine, Ron was doing his best to keep his charge from becoming the first woman to fly off the slopes of a Japanese ski resort mountain while stripping his clothes off in the process. All's well that ended well as the US contingent were cleared to return with their stolen craft and an introduction to some vaguely familiar 'new friends' while dining nearby and Ron saved his friend from herself by reigning in her inner 'Crash Dummy' and finally explaining his thoughts on her pursuits of his affections, and they made a new friend in the process (Just how friendly, for one of them…you'll have to see.)

Now to keep from starting a feeding frenzy in lawyer row over at Disney: The characters of Kim Possible are the property of Disney and are in no way involved in our financial gains through their involvement in our fan fiction. Also any others mentioned in the story are their own selves or our own creations. And speaking of creations of others, it is with great pride that I announce that taking part in this tale is a couple of characters that Larry, Sentinel103, has graciously loaned to the story. Two of my favorite characters from his 'Once Again' ARC, the ever so lovely, the oh so deadly, possessing a mischievous streak as long as they have been friends, and a penchant for the Nipponese Rice Wine...let's give a big hand to Wanda Wang and Suzie Chin, the Sake Sisters!

Storm Chaser

Chapter 19

Amidst a moderately crowded ski resort bar two women, one tall, the other short, took their seats, turned to the bartender and ordered their favorite beer (Yeah I know, it goes against the grain of their legacy, but we didn't want them to get too soused, too soon, CB). Once the orders were taken they turned back to each other, knuckle-bumped and snorted in mischievous glee followed by a full-on belly laugh before they collapsed in their seats.

(Wanda, wasn't that a little risky giving that kid a push down that mountain? You could have killed all three of them.), Suzie Chin giggled incredulously to the taller woman.

Snorting further, she waved a hand dismissively, (Nah sister Stoppable-sama is durable…), and she almost lost it again. The tall slender Shinobi stopped to wipe tears from her eyes with a napkin before she replied to her lifelong friend, (But Sensei wanted to make sure he was not distracted from his studies and that girl was doing her best to sidetrack him.), Then pausing to take a long pull on her beer, (Anyway neither the girl nor that 'Mack truck' were very good on the slope so somebody had to end it before we had a real accident.)

Nodding, (The girl was very single-minded about Ron-sama wasn't she? She was almost ready to peel off Ron-sama's clothes and roll around with him in the snow.), Suzie noted.

With a gleam in her eye, (I think the term hormonally fixated is more appropriate don't you think little tiger?), Wanda Wang laughed as she glanced around the bar to make sure no one was eyeing them too closely while discussing matters of Yamanouchi, something of a challenge with two very attractive women in a bar full of single men on the prowl.

Snorting, (You do have a way with words.), Suzie replied. Then tapping a finger on her chin, (But I wonder where that kid came from, we should have checked him out before sending him blindly on his way.) After a few moments of contemplation she waved her hand away, (No matter, what is done, is done. But maybe we really should buy him a drink in repayment don't you think?), Suzie told her.

Taking another pull on her beer and signaling for another round for them, (Nah sister it might have delayed the events we set him in motion for…but he sure seemed interested in the girl. Anyway it's too bad we didn't add something to get them in the 'mood' there, maybe she would have completely forgotten about our friend.)

Frowning at the unwanted thought of using any of the school's 'special' medications for people they didn't deem a threat to security, (Sensei just wanted Ron-sama to be able to focus,), Suzie replied. (Just like that Master at that dojo he attends.), she said before smirking, (But I have a feeling his world is going to be turned upside down when Sensei gets done with him.), then stopped when the drink orders were placed before them.

Waiting for the bartender to move on, (Suzie this has been fun, but we have to head to Sapporo later tonight.) Then with a smirk, (And the meeting at the dojo is going to be interesting to say the least. The school already made our reservations for us.)

Looking off thoughtfully, (Do you think we gave them enough of a head start Wanda? And do you think we should have warned Stoppable-sama of what is going to happen?), and took another drink of her beer.

Shaking her head, (No let Sensei explain it his own way.), Wanda admonished Suzie. Then looking to a clock over the bar, (The next train leaves in about an hour, then there is another one in two hours, we'll take that one.), she said to her best friend who nodded and took a drink of her beer.

Continuing her contemplations, (Now Stoppable-sama used quite a bit of energy on the slopes…he had to keep picking the girl up when she fell…a lot.), Wanda smirked. (So if we take the train in two hours we'll be in Sapporo in three,), taking another swallow of beer, (and then it's a ten minute taxi ride to our hotel…..we have plenty of time for tonight's festivities.), she grinned. Then offhandedly, (Anyway I know of this nice little tea house….), Wanda suggested to her lifetime friend and then called the bartender back for another round to pass the time.

Suzie laughed out loud then lowered her voice, (More like a bar where stevedores hang out…) Wanda looked back to her and snorted a laugh at how well her friend knew her.

XXX

On the train back to Sapporo:

Ron sat back in his seat, smiling as he looked on the slumbering pair in the seat across from him, while thinking on the 'intrusion' of a young man with less skiing ability than the young woman who had been pursuing him since the previous fall.

'They look so cute together, it's a shame I don't have a camera with me.', he mentally snorted. 'But I'm glad someone has come along to distract Ukuma from the disappointment of not landing me as a romantic interest.', he sighed in some relief.

Then looking out the window of their railcar, 'I wonder if Rufus has eaten all of the food in the apartment while I was gone…I left him enough cheese to tide him over.', Ron's randomness interjected.

'You know you could have brought him with you, he's skied before…'

'True, but he's older now and more fragile than he was then…and it's still too soon after the 'events' to try something like that. If someone saw a blond Caucasian with a pink rodent they would probably put two and two together and come up with Kim Possible then maybe get word to her somehow through Wade to ask her about us.', he frowned. 'I don't want her or her boyfriend to even have a reason to think about us, she's got her perfect world and I don't want to mess that up for her.'

'And what do you have?'

With a slight smile he replied, 'Duty. Yamanouchi needs me, the world needs me. I do not need the world. It has passed me by.'

'Oh? So you can live without the world. Why then do you need to go to college for the field that you are in if that is so?'

'I want to do something that is interesting yet fun while I bide my time between battles, and I am curious about this field of study and I think I'd enjoy taking part in this line of work.'

'There are easier careers out there you know.'

'I know, but I am curious about this. And lately when have I chosen the easy way? Even though it pays well I don't need the money, and maybe I can settle down some place where I can make some friends again.'`

'You can live very well without all this work…'

'And be bored out of my mind? I am supposed to keep improving myself….if I do not find something challenging I will stagnate…and maybe this is why Kim found someone better. The one thing that I can never give her enough credit for is her getting me off my lazy rump and getting me to make something of myself.'

'So you have stated to others, but do you really believe that you can remain as stoic as you claim to be?', came the counter argument.

'I suppose we will have to find out won't we?', he shot back.

'I suppose we will. Good luck to you Master Fool, but be prepared for failure when things don't turn out as you have planned.'

'I am always ready to play the part of the monkey again if that's what it takes to accomplish my tasks and my goals. Anyway I have failed before, what is one more time?'

Ron was brought out of his internal conversation as Ukuma Sekari's eyes opened a slit before she settled around in her seat a bit. Then with a contented sigh the young woman closed her eyes and snuggled into the guy next to her.

The blond headed young man smiled slightly as he watched the scene before him, 'Good luck Mr. Nanotri Saskua, I think you have a new girlfriend unless I've gauged my crazy little 'friend' wrong.', he smirked. 'She's a little bullheaded too and I hope you're good at math, 'cause she needs the help, but not as much as she thinks she does.'

X

After some time passed, Ron could feel the train slow in preparation for the next stop on the rail line. After a glance to his watch he calculated the time remaining before he had to wake his little friend and her acquaintance from their slumber.

Thinking ahead, 'Rufus I hope you haven't eaten everything in the apartment.', Ron ruefully shook his head. 'Maybe I'd better make sure these two get home and drop off my gear before I get him something to eat.', Ron mused as the two began to stir.

XXX

Komatsu Air Force Base, Japan:

With a big smile on his face, "This was a wonderful dinner, Lieutenant Kasumi, I am very glad you suggested it.", James Possible thanked their hosts.

Bowing slightly, "Doctor Possible it was my honor to do so, my fiancée and I are glad you enjoyed it.", Natora replied as the Japanese woman smiled slightly.

Kim hesitantly cut in, "Excuse me Sir…but are you familiar with a place called the Yamanouchi School?"

He frowned thoughtfully as he paused, so his fiancée, Lieutenant Megana Tustoma, answered, "There is a community named Yamamouchi on the west side of Japan, Miss Possible. Why do you ask?"

"Is the western part mountainous?"

"No not really, however the central part of the country is. In fact, that is that part of Japan where we come from. So why do you ask?"

Her face melancholy as she recounted her memories from back then, "Years ago,", gulping timidly, "I came to a place here in the mountains, to a school and the school's name was Yamanouchi.", Kim said, her eyes now with a glimmer of sad hope. "My b..boy..boyfriend,", she stammered as her voice painfully failed, "…had been a student there and I thought he might have returned."

Other than a nearly imperceptible eye twitch, her face betrayed no emotion, "I could check for you, Miss Possible, but I personally do not know of a place. Are you sure of its name?"

Her face registering loss, "I'm pretty sure that was the name I was given.", Kim said, feeling she hit another dead end.

Coming from an angle that was probing, yet gave nothing away, "Didn't your boyfriend even tell you where he was going?", Megana asked with a slight frown, "That would be dishonorable to not tell one's loved ones where he was headed before he left.", she said, and then waited for the red head's reply and reactions.

Kim wiped an eye, "I wasn't a very good girlfriend back then. I made some very bad mistakes during that time and I really wish I could go back in time to make things right.", she sniffed and looked so forlorn to the other woman.

Continuing to gently pry, "So a lover's spat then?", Megana asked, her tone more compassionate.

Remorse and regret in her face, "Not really, I more or less cut off all contact…", Kim began to explain.

At that moment, a large man in a blue uniform walked up to the table and interrupted the red head's confession, "Excuse me ladies and gentlemen, General Cleaver sends his regards and reports that it's time to begin boarding the plane for our return flight to Middleton. The item has been secured for transport on the cargo plane and is preparing for takeoff."

Looking to those at the table and noting all had finished their meals, "I suppose that we'd better get going or we'll have to pay our way home. We hate to run…", James said for all present in his group.

A friendly wave off, "Nonsense Doctor Possible, it was our honor to meet you, Miss Possible and Doctor Load.", Lt. Kasumi replied. "It will of course be our honor to pick up the tab as you Americans say.", he responded as he picked up the bill.

"Why thank you young man, and if you and your fiancée are ever in Middleton, Colorado I will be more than happy to return the favor. You have made us feel very welcome and we would like to return the favor sometime.", James smiled at having made another friend and maybe one who could give him some insight regarding vacationing in Japan someday. Then, reaching into his jacket he pulled out a card, "Here is my business card, I do hope to hear from you."

"But of course Doctor Possible, Megana-chun and I will be on…what do you call it…oh yes our honeymoon and we are considering traveling to the United States since we have never been there before. Your offer will give us something to discuss. And we promise to let you know."

"Remember our treat when you come to town."

The beautiful Japanese woman smiled, "We will have to see how our schedule works out Doctor Possible. Now it seems your time in Japan is growing short, so may we escort your back to your airplane?"

"Thank you Miss, that is most kind of you.", James said as he and the rest rose from their chairs.

Extending his hand to each of the Americans, "We are honored to meet you Doctor Possible and your famous daughter's exploits have preceded your arrival.", the young Japanese officer said as they shook hands.

Kim also offered her hand to his fiancée, "I hope you come to the States this summer, but I'm going to see if I can spend a few weeks in Japan. Maybe I can track down my old boyfriend if he is still here."

"Maybe it will happen for you Miss Possible, good luck with that. And I am sure that I can get some time off to show you around a little if we are here at the same time,", Megana Tustoma promised. Then she added with a sincere smile, "We hope you will find your young man Miss Possible."

Kim replied as they walked out to the waiting van, "That sounds great, I'll be sure to get word to you. And thank you, I really want to see him again."

The five boarded the van and were lost in their thoughts as they were transported back to the jet.

Final goodbyes said, three climbed aboard the executive aircraft while those from the other group who were not returning with the object in the cargo plane showed up to join them on the return flight to the US.

Clearances given from the tower, the jet climbed into the sky, winging its way back to the US. Thirty minutes and ten thousand feet in altitude later, Kim, Wade and James were fast asleep as they headed east to, for most of them, Middleton and home.

As she slept, the pretty red head dreamed as she always did, mostly of a face she had long missed due to her miscalculations those few years ago in England. But her dreams were intruded upon by a face she did not recognize…that of an Asian girl, who was snuggled up to an Asian boy, and both seemed to be in clothing likely worn on snowy mountains or on ski slopes.

Frowning slightly, 'Why am I seeing this?', the thought formed to her in her sleep.

XXX

Sapporo, Japan:

Reaching across and gently shaking them, (Hey you two, we are almost home you might as well wake up.), Ron said to the slumbering pair.

With a slight start, (Huh where are we?), the cute young Japanese woman asked as she came to her senses.

The blond American chuckled, (Sapporo. You two look quite beat, so I suppose I'd better make sure you get to your homes. I don't want to be accused of letting you two sleep on the sidewalks tonight.)

(Already?)

Snorting, (Hai, you both slept most of the way,), then smirking, (and it was so cute.), to their sudden blush. (I suggest after we depart the train that we share a cab, I am not strong enough to carry gear for three people.)

Five minutes later the three made their way off the train and out to the street to hail a cab.

X

(There's one.), Ron told them as he raised his arm to signal for the taxi.

After strapping their equipment to the cab's overhead luggage rack, they boarded the taxi and headed off to the young man's apartment. Ron noted while helping remove Natori's bags that the young man lived about a half mile from Ukuma's apartment.

From there Ron helped the half asleep woman retrieve her bags and get her to her door, (I will pick you up for a late dinner in an hour Ukuma-san, is that enough time for you?), Ron asked, bringing her out of her energy burnout daze.

Startled, (Hai, I will wait for you Dean-san.), she replied as he backed out to the street.

(Very good, now get in some normal clothes. I'll return after I put my gear away and change, too.)

From there the taxi then drove Ron to his apartment where he paid the fare and climbed out with his gear. (Can you wait here until I come back, I need to pick up my friend who we just let off and take her out to dinner.), Ron asked the driver as he gave him way more than enough to cover the ride, tip and wait.

With a wide smile, (As long as you are paying for my time sure.), the cabby replied.

The blond American quickly exited the taxi and walked up to the door of his apartment building. After he entered he took the stairs two at a time as he hauled his pack and ski gear with him.

Upon opening his apartment door Ron could hear the television. Quietly he moved about, and shortly found his little pink mole rat friend, dozing in front of the television. "Hey Rufus.", Ron called softly to his buddy as he set his stuff down.

No response from the pink mole rat, Ron picked him up and began to scratch his ears.

A few moments later Rufus opened his eyes, "I'm going out to eat soon, so come on, I'll get you some cheese to tide you over until I get back with take out from the restaurant.", he told the bleary-eyed rodent.

With a tired smile, "Hnk, home Ron."

"Yeah I'm home; now let's get you some of that cheese that I put away for you because you've been so good."

"Hnk cheese.", he brightened up.

"Yeah but I have to hurry, I need to pick up Ukuma Sekari at her apartment for a late dinner."

Rubbing his stomach sympathetically, "Hnk she starve….", as he started to sniff for his own dinner.

Smirking at his buddy's attempt to play his emotions, "Yeah I know,", Ron poked Rufus' tummy, "she'd probably starve herself if I didn't make sure she got something in her once in a while.", Ron replied as he put Rufus down on the kitchen island and pulled the special cheese from the fridge, and then took out a very sharp knife to slice it up for his little buddy.

Realizing he was busted, "Hnk playin' you…"

"Yeah I know, are you gonna be alright for a couple of hours?"

"Hnk yeah, loser, got TV."

"Alright then, I'm gonna leave and pick up Ukuma for dinner, now behave yourself while I'm gone and I'll make sure I bring home your favorite sushi."

Rufus then stuck out his tongue, rubbed his belly and licked his chops in anticipation as Ron set him down in front of the television with a plate of cheese.

X

As the taxi slowed to a stop in front of the apartment of the female bane of his solitary existence, (Are you going to give me a couple of minutes to get her down here.), Ron asked the driver.

(Of course, but the meter is running.), the driver warned.

Shrugging, (I know and you will get a very good tip when you drop us off at the Hanagi.)

An impressed whistle, (You had better get something in return from her out of this. That place is expensive!), the cabby said suggestively.

Ron frowned, (I know it is and I have enough money to treat Ukuma. But all I care about is if she eats good she tends to fall asleep and doesn't annoy me much for the rest of the day.), he said in light irritation. (Then she won't be calling me at all hours of the night, which she has done four times already.)

Looking on appreciatively, (If you treated all women you meet this way you will not ever have to worry about being lonely. But I still think she could show her appreciation between the sheets for you.), the cabby leered.

Shooting him a look, (We are not romantically involved, we are just good friends and she deserves a nice filling dinner after skiing all day.), the cabby backed down.

Shrugging, (Suit yourself friend, but someone will cash in on this.), the cabby replied. (And in my opinion you are a simpleminded fool for passing up something like this.)

(Maybe I am, but I feel no romantic interest in her. Like I said I am her friend.)

(Alright, if you say so.), he backed off. Then after Ron handed over the fare and a large tip, (Thanks.)

(Think of it as silence money. If you don't bring up the romantic thing, maybe she won't think of it since she is so tired right now.)

(All right Sir, but I still think you are making a mistake.), he took one last shot.

(Thanks, we'll be right back…) Then looking to her building, (I hope unless she fell asleep.), Ron chuckled as he got out of the taxi and walked up to the door.

Ron pushed on the buzzer to her number and waited for the return call from her apartment.

.

.

- No answer-

Ron pushed again and was rewarded by a sleepy voice, (Dean-kun is that you?)

(Yes, are you ready?)

Buzzing him in, (Come on up, I will be in a moment.)

The American entered and in moments he was at her door, which he found to be open.

Looking in warily, (Are you decent?)

A muffled, (Almost, make yourself at home.), came from her bedroom.

Ron removed his shoes and entered.

Yawning as Ukuma Sekari entered the room while not doing so well to fasten an earring; her frustration apparent.

Ron smiled (You are quite sleepy, aren't you? Do you want help with that Ukuma-san?)

Frumping an irritated breath, (Please.), and turned so he could help her with her problem.

His hands pulled back from her, (Ah please pull your hair to the side.)

XXX

Well after sundown as a car approached a train station, (Well dear, what did you make of all that?), Hirotaka asked as Yori looked off in thought.

Her voice distant, (Meeting Kim Possible again like this is not how I envisioned it would happen, husband.), she said, deep in thought. (From what I can ascertain…It seems…there has been a misunderstanding…of epic proportions between those two.), Yori quietly said.

Then turning to him, (At least she did not recognize you; it would have caused turmoil for all parties if this was discovered by her. And we were not prepared to deal with this contingency in this mission; we were lucky in that regard.), she cupped his cheek.

Missing the loaded signal she sent, (Do you think we should tell him?), Hirotaka asked, showing he did understand something of what Kim tried to explain back at the restaurant. But him being a male, so much of what little was said by Kim there blared loud and clear to the females present at the table; whether they knew the details of what she spoke of or not.

Sighing in tired frustration, (In the mindset he is in, no, not at this time.), she shook her head sadly. (He has started on this path and he must now finish it.), she decided. Turning to him, her look serious, (However Sensei must be aware of this latest development.) Then her jaw set, (And…in time..I shall have a discussion with the young master to convey to him my point of view concerning this matter, for the last time.), Yori said in grim finality.

Nodding in agreement, yet not fully aware of the lengths his wife would go regarding this with their hardheaded friend, (We will see him either tonight or in the morning. Considering what the mindset that Stoppable-sama is in maybe a wait and see attitude is best.), Hirotaka suggested. Shrugging, (It is quite obvious that Kim-san is still very much in love with our eccentric master.) Then smirking to Yori, (I still think we should kidnap him and drop him off drugged at her school…..naked. Imagine the surprise that she and all the other women there will have?)

Glaring, (No, fool of a husband, Kim-san would have to fight all them off if you do this. We want just the two of them to mate and make lots of little ninjas.), Yori deadpanned. Patting his arm, (It is better that we wait; we have time now that we understand the situation more clearly.), she nodded knowingly. Then sagely, (Our friend has a path to travel just as Kim-san does.), her voice trailed off. (I wonder what they will find when they reach the end of their travels?)

A smirk playing on his features, (Well it is going to be an interesting meeting tomorrow, that's for sure.), Hiro said to her snort. Reaching to her to follow him, (Now we have to hurry to make our train and the little surprise we have waiting.)

X

Quickly the Japanese couple walked through the sparse crowd to their train, took their seats, and after ten minutes of small talk between them, the train pulled out of the station.

With a look of 'I told you so', (See we had plenty of time.), the female Shinobi told her husband. (I knew we would make the train before departure.)

Frowning, (I wanted to be sure we would not be delayed in returning. Sensei is not very happy right now, and I did not want our late arrival to distract him from tonight's activities.), Hiro replied, his forehead creased in worry.

With a knowing smile, (Grandfather knew we would make it, so there are no worries there, husband.) Then with a pondering smirk, (Now I wonder how Ron-sama did on his little ski trip today?)

Snorting, (Knowing him he fell and broke a leg.), Hiro chuckled.

Yori frowned, (He is very capable on skis and you know it husband.), and chided him. Again smirking, (Who was the last one who fell?)

Sighing in capitulation, (It was me, but I had an excuse….)

A gleeful grin, (Oh?), Yori asked in mock surprise.

(I was thinking about you. When that happens you know I can't function well.), Hiro offered.

Snorting, (That's because you think with your 'thing' instead of your mind.), Yori again chided Hirotaka.

His voice now very syrupy, (But dear, that's how I always think of you now. You are the most beautiful creature on the Earth.), he flirted back.

A glimmer in her eyes as she pulled him to her, (And you are trying to butter me up for something?), Yori rebutted Hiro. Then she pushed him to the door of their cabin, (Now go stand guard at our door while I change out of this uniform. I will do the same for you.)

Still laying it on thickly, his hand over a 'wounded heart', (I would never not tell the truth to my life partner, you are the most precious thing to me…), he staggered to the door.

Smirking, (I know, but it is fun teasing you…now go and do as I say. This skirt is uncomfortable.)

(Yes dear.), Hirotaka said as he removed his jacket and carried out her orders.

XXX

Through the snow packed streets of the small city drove a van with two newly marrieds, enroute to their new home.

With a contrite smile to his bride, "I'm sorry we couldn't do more for your honeymoon, honey.", Josh said as they drove further into Middleton, returning to rest up for a day or two before going back to college to complete their senior year.

A loving smile in return, "It's all right Josh, I don't mind. We have to get back to college early anyway, and remember you have a showing at that art gallery just off campus. It could be a break for you and your work.", Tara said reassuringly as she placed a hand on his arm.

"Yeah, there's that.", he said smiling hopefully. "There's supposed to be some dealers and collectors there and they could find something there they might like of my works. If nothing else I might get a commission or two if I don't sell anything.", Josh looked slightly fearful. His hands gripping the steering wheel tightly, "But I think this is a way I can make more money to support us."

"Josh we're not starving or broke.", Tara said gently. "We planned this out and our 'rents said they would help us get on our feet."

A look of determination, "I'd like to show your Mom and Dad that I'm a man…that I can take care of my responsibilities to our family. And that includes not being a burden on them. Our parents helped us out and I want to pay them back.", Josh replied with a fire in his eyes. Now a loving look in them, "Anyway your parents already gave me the best gift in the universe, and I don't know exactly how to do this, but I'm trying to find a way."

Confused, "Honey what are you talking about? What 'best gift in the universe' did my parents give you?", Tara asked her husband.

Grasping her hand, "It's you babe.", the artist cleared up her confusion.

"Me?"

The artist explained, "Yes you, Tara Michelle Mankey, the bablical wife of Joshua Wendell Mankey. You were the best thing that ever happened to me."

The platinum blonde giggled, "Bablical? Where did you get that?"

Now his turn to be confused, "Isn't that what Stoppable said about stuff he loved?"

Giggling, "No silly his word was badical.", Tara rolled her eyes, having been in the presence of one of Ron Stoppable's signature exclamations more than a few times in her life.

Now really confused, "Badical…for something he liked? That makes no sense.", Josh said in exasperation.

A look of smug confirmation, "Well it is and I should know, I kissed him once…did you?", she teased.

Mock indignation, "Hey I don't swing that way honey you know that…..I don't care what all the other kids said in school. I am totally heterosexual.", Josh grumped at a sore spot that followed him throughout his teen years.

Smiling confidently, "I know you don't…and that you are totally…", she smirked contentedly. "You did make the last two weeks of my life very memorable.", Tara said with a satisfied sigh. Looking to him expectantly, "I just hope we can keep the pace up.", she said suggestively.

Sighing in faux exhaustion, "Not likely Tara, you wore me out.", he theatrically replied to her.

Smacking him on his arm, "You grew back Josh, don't tell me you didn't like it.", she teased.

Looking grim, "I didn't like it.", Josh said, his voice flat.

"What?"

"I loved it.", Josh said before he put his hand on her knee.

Fuming in her seat, "You…", the former cheerleader said before she leaned in and stole a kiss.

XXX

Residing on an isolated Caribbean island, with their support staff, were a famous, or infamous depending on your point of view, couple who were doing their best to stay out of the public eye after taking part in thwarting an alien invasion a few years earlier.

So far they were quite successful, but if determining their location by sound would have been used by overhead satellite scans, it's a good bet that fans, the curious, or more, could have zeroed in on them from outbursts such as the following.

"Gawd blue boy! That kid of yours kicks like a mule!", the sweating mint hued woman gasped as she rested on the exam room bed, at wits end trying to relieve the discomfort she was constantly under.

Gently chiding her, mostly because she could still inflict plasma or other pain to him, even in her condition, "Kicking is probably more in your genes Shego than in mine.", Doctor Drakken said while holding her hand. "Relax, the Doctor should be back in shortly to give you something for the pain."

"The pain I can deal with, just keep those assistants out of here before I fry them. Anyway I want to walk a little, my back is stiff again."

"Are they annoying you?", Doctor Drakken worried about being able to keep them on staff if his wife continued to threaten them.

"What do you think Doctor D.? They're all perky and everything, and after all those years of dealing with the Princess,", Shego snarled, "anyone who's perky gets on my nerves.", she snarked.

"Meh, I told them to be happy, does that bother you?"

"When have you ever known me to be happy Drewbie?"

"Mother told me she was the happiest when she was carrying me, I thought you would be the same way…"

"As if! Your Mom is a little whacked just like the rest of your family, I'll be happy when this temporary weight gain goes away."

Not hearing her, due to his thinking back on his Mother's musings from when she raised him, "It's not going away, Shego. In fact, it's going to start crying eventually…they all do that you know…", he trailed off, then shook his head to clear it.

Looking to her in wonder, "Yeah and Shego the great super villain will be nursing a baby for much of the next year too, don't you forget that.", Drakken pointed out. "Anyway Mother and Edward are so stoked about this, maybe it will be an incentive for my cousin to get out and away from his gear-headed friends and really make something of himself.", the former blue villain told Shego before he stopped his musings.

Looking fearfully to her, "And I hope Mother doesn't follow through with her threat to come and live with us for a while…", he trailed off as he and Shego shuddered.

After the feeling of foreboding for both had passed, "Are your hormones still messed up?", Drakken asked. At her timid nod, "Then I guess I won't have them screwed up even more by suggesting Betty send Kim Possible down here to cheer you up with one of her old cheer routines.", he laughed, not quite aware of just how much trouble he was in for if he continued this line of discussion.

Squeezing his hand in an iron grip, "And if that happens I'll make sure you get one of my extra special plasma blasts, Drewbie…", Shego answered sweetly. "You know it's not nice to tweak a woman at the edge of childbirth, especially this woman.", she said with a very familiar and dangerous glare.

The glare and the handgrip doing their jobs, Drakken nodded in surrender.

"You just keep that perky goody-two shoes away from me and while you're at it, keep that goofy boyfriend away, too for that matter.", Shego mocked him as she lit up a hand and reached around to 'threaten' her husband's mullet.

Unaffected by the threat to his mullet, "Meh, Shego, go ahead and burn it off. I'm sick of it anyway. I'm even considering dying my hair blond since I've turned over a new leaf.", Drakken said to his now surprised wife.

Taking this in, Shego sat stunned for a moment, then after an eye-twitch from the very pregnant former villainess, "What's wrong with you Drew?...OH!", she asked as her surprise gave way to the interruption of a very overwhelming spasm.

After the pain from the sudden grip of death passed, Drakken was able to reply, "I…already gave up on my goal of dominating the Earth; I suppose I need to give up on the hairstyle too."

Snorting a mock, "Dummy, invent stuff the world can't do without and you'll dominate it by being the richest guy.", Shego retorted.

The realization coming to him, "I suppose so.", Drakken said, then looked to her IV bag, "I see the IV is done, I'll get the Doctor back in here to remove the needle so you can get out of bed to walk around some.", as he patted her hand.

"Yeah, you do that blue boy.", to his back as he cleared the door.

A few minutes later Drew Lipsky returned with the doctor, "Mrs. …"

A hand flaring up, "Don't you dare say it.", she warned the young physician.

"Huh."

"It makes me sound old and I don't like sounding old.", she suggested. "Shego is much better.", he nodded a little fearfully.

With a pointed look at her husband, "Now Doctor D, why don't you make yourself useful and get me my favorite pillow from our bedroom."

A quick nod and the blue scientist quickly left to grab the article for his wife.

The very pregnant, mint-hued woman chuckled, "Now that he's gone and out of the way for the time being, I want to get up for a while.", and began to slide over to the edge to get out of the bed.

Hurrying over to her, "Oh yes I understand Miss Go,", looking to the IV, "and I see that the bag has run its course so there's no reason for you to stay in bed. Now as long as one of the medical staff is with you it will be fine to get up to move around for a bit.", Doctor Smuck informed her and removed the needle from her arm.

"Thanks Doc, I appreciate it. Maybe I can work the kinks out in my back since the doofus that was here earlier to do that can't seem to give me a decent back rub."

Extending a hand to help her out of the bed, "I'll have one of the nurses come in to help with that, Miss Go.", the Doctor offered. "I understand that your back bothering you and heaven knows mine would be the same way.", he sympathized.

Then looking to her chart posted where it was easily seen, "You've been in an out of active labor for a day and a half." Turning back to her, "What we can tell so far is that even though your daughter's going to come early, she's going to have fully developed lungs."

Her face softening at the news, "Good.", she whispered, placing a hand where the baby was. "Sorry about me being a grouch,", Shego said apologetically, "but I've never been very patient about many things and I like to be in control."

At his relieved smile, "After you guys get done with my back could you send my husband back in to walk me around a little? It'll only take him about fifteen minutes before he starts worrying about me again and then I'd have to come up with something else for him to do instead of annoying me."

Nodding sympathetically, "As soon as the nurse comes in and Doctor Drakken returns I will send him off to make some of his coco-moo. Miss Hamilton should be done by then. After she finishes up it will be nice for him to get used to supporting you since he's going to be quite involved with changing diapers and bathing your little one while you rest."

Smiling very appreciatively, "Thanks Doc I knew I could count on you."

XXX

Sapporo, Japan:

Holding the sleeping girl in his arms to keep her secured in the backseat of the taxi, (See what I said, you get a good meal in her and she goes to sleep and stays that way.), Ron told the taxi driver he spoke to earlier in the evening.

Again reminding Ron of some of their earlier conversations, (Do you want me to take her to your place for some 'fun'?)

His face darkening, (No, I told you that isn't what our friendship is about.), he reminded the cabby. (Now take us to her place; I will put her into her bed and then go home to my apartment.), Ron said. (And keep the meter running I won't be long.), Ron dictated to the driver as the cab pulled up to Ukuma's apartment building.

XXXX

Well, there you have it. Ron's had a little 'help' from Yamanouchi with his 'girl problems' in Japan, and Kim's on her way back home to continue with her schooling. But while Ron is not aware of how involved his second Alma Mater in one aspect, he's about to learn what else they are about to do for him shortly. Suffice it to say, he had his warnings… Kim, meanwhile, said so little about her relationship fracas with Ron, but to a woman, especially one very intimately involved in the subject of the red head's angst, it said volumes.

Later we see where each recent incident plays out, but for now, we hope you've enjoyed the ride.