Hi there and here we are with another installment of 'Storm Chaser'. Hope it wasn't too long of a wait, but life, work, and the never ending battle against the cold and flu season struck just as this was being finalized for posting. But never fear, PTO, bed rest and lying low have won the day…
But before starting the pre-Christmas recap of our tale so far we'd like to thank the following for chiming in as they have: Mahler Avatar (Multiple chapters, but still more to go before he or Calvin & Hobbes sleeps…), Beckman (yes, Hurray indeed, again), Uberscribbler, ajw1970, Robot Wolf 26Z, Sentinel103, Jimmy1201, Paradoxreader (you old Guest, you…), Vondrakenhof, wildcon120, levi2001a1 (both times…) and Randamwriter, thanks to you all, even the 'Silent Reviewer'…
Last chapter Kim was winging her way home while Ron and Company took out a major base of operations of their most persistent foe in the Far East to date. (The Yakuza took a hint, maybe these guys will too? Only time will tell…) But that ever persistent involuntary 'open door' between them struck again as Kim put on quite a show in First Class when Ron went Berserker on his and Yamanouchi's hosts, and then found something left behind with one of the survivors that surprised all witnesses to the results. No closer to resolutions on either side of the planet, Ron and his Team prepared a 'message' for their foes while Kim finally got some vindication from Tara's witnessing and evaluating the event.
One Caveat before the first passages of the chapter are read: Though the timing of the release of this chapter is quite close to a recent devastating hurricane to the Asian quarter of the Pacific Ocean, bear in mind this chapter was originally written by Larry in the late Spring or early Summer of this year during what was a very quiet Hurricane Season in the Western Hemisphere. We offer our prayers and thoughts to those who went through it, though, and hope the survivors get the relief and assistance they need as they rebuild their lives and their world.
But before this goes much further Larry and I need to deny the Evil Grinches (Sorry Theodore…) of Disney their sumptuous feast on the bones of us writers: If ya saw it on Kim Possible, it's theirs, if not then they either are their own creations or ours (see Larry).
Now on with the show…
Storm Chaser
Chapter 26
Yokota Air Force Base about 30 KM west of Tokyo, seven days after the Metz Affair in Tokyo:
Glancing around the conference room from his podium the balding Japanese Air Self-Defense Officer smiled as he took in the mix of Atmospheric Scientists and Flight Officers, Japanese and American, civilian clothing and coveralls, and olive drab flight suits like his own.
Clearing his throat, he got their attention and they took their seats so he could begin the initial briefing. Speaking in English as few of the Americans present spoke Japanese while most of the Japanese were at least bilingual, "On behalf of the Japanese Nation I welcome the American assemblage to Yokota Air Base. To those from here I also thank you for taking part in this event. I am Major Isaku Norobi of the Japanese Air Defense Force and I am here to explain your presence at this facility.", the Air Force Officer greeted them.
After the low rumble of replies settled down, "The Nation of Japan is seriously considering changing the way we study the violent storms in the Pacific Ocean, especially those which would approach the Islands and the Asian Mainland.", he continued. "For years we relied on the same methods still in use in the United States to track and investigate typhoons like you did your hurricanes, in fact your Air Force was a big part of the methods, but after a time we went with satellite technology and other means of electronic surveillance which we use to this day."
Extending a hand to the American pilots, and then to their aircraft parked on the tarmac, visible through the room's picture windows, "With the evolution of technology and aircraft modifications in the years since we went with satellite surveillance, our government has decided to once again return to those methods.", the Major announced.
After the low din faded, "It was realized that from afar we were not gleaning nearly what we've learned our compatriots in America were gathering from their direct involvement in those storms and those of you present were invited here to take part in a pilot program to help us learn how get back into the business of studying these destructive forces of nature more closely.", Major Norobi declared.
Looking solemnly, "Over time Japan has noted tropical storms are getting stronger and more unpredictable and it was determined by our Meteorologists that we were not gathering the information needed to prepare for them from by current methods. It was decided to look to the United States and their example to gather more accurate data to define more precisely where storm damage will likely occur…", the Major said to the gathered.
Then extending a hand to an American officer in the first row, "Colonel Warmarster here,", he said as the quite large and flat topped US Air Force Officer in an olive drab flight suit, black oak leave clusters on his shoulders, left his seat and walked up to the podium, "is the Commanding Officer of the group who've come here with their equipment and aircraft to assist us in this endeavor and I'd like to thank you and your experienced crews for volunteering your time and equipment to help us get this off the ground.", the Major finished and turned to shake hands with the Colonel.
Turning to the assembled, "Thank you for that introduction Major Norobi.", he said before pausing to look over the room, and noting a fair-skinned blond haired male sitting with the Japanese group, "I am Lt. Colonel John Warmarster, of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known as 'Hurricane Hunters'. My particular Flight's call sign is 'Storm Chasers', and we operate from our base at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi. We are all extremely happy to be here to assist the Nation of Japan in the creation of a program which we believe will pay tremendous dividends for you when it comes to preparing for those Pacific storms which plague this part of the world.", he explained to the assembled.
"What we do, and what we are a part of is a joint military/civilian agency operation to gather and disseminate data regarding some of the most powerful storms in the world.", he continued. "Though much has been learned from afar from the technology developed for this purpose, but it was learned that direct involvement through means such as we employ are still necessary to get a fuller picture of the hurricanes that threaten the shores in our corner of the world."
Pointing to the two aircraft he, his crews and some of the civilian scientists flew in on the night before, "We use the latest model of the C-130 Hercules, the WC-130J, which carries the latest in equipment for us to gather the data called for in storm threat assessment and an airframe that has all the latest materials and structure designs to secure the crews flying through some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at the Human Race when we fly through her hurricanes."
Turning back to the assembled, "Major Norobi's description of what our two governments agreed upon only scratches the surface of what is planned for you.", he said waving a hand over all present. "We've got a lot of work ahead of us but when we are done here you will be able to take the lead in Asia in helping other nations prepare for storms which range the entire breadth and depth of your part of the world.", the Colonel declared.
Again pointing to their aircraft, "We do all of our data gathering from planes like those on the tarmac, which we fly through the very center of those storms, so they have to be quite durable for us to survive slamming through storm walls where winds have been recorded at 150-plus miles per hour.", he said to gasps of surprise from the local group.
After the murmurs died down, "But before anything like that can be done we need to help bring your team up to speed as to duties and responsibilities called for in all phases of such missions. And quite shortly our group will help introduce these duties and responsibilities to members of your group once the introductions and job designations are made.", Colonel Warmarster said as each group looked to the other.
Then looking to the only blond in the room not in his group, "Major Norobi, I see that you have someone of European heritage on your team.", he said to the Major before turning to Ron, "Where are you from Son? And do you speak English?", he asked. Then looking more closely to the marks and bruising on Ron's face, "And if you don't mind my asking, what happened to your head? Lose an argument with a wall or something?"
Chuckling at the comments about his face, "My name is Dean Kaminsky, Colonel and I'm originally from Chicago, where I and my parents were from until work brought them here.", he said with a grin. "As for speaking English, even though I'm from Chicago I guess you could say a speak a dialect of the language.", Ron smirked as the room rumbled in low laughter. Pointing out the group he was with, "I'm majoring in Meteorology at the University of Sapporo and have an internship here for the summer."
Then shrugging, "And as for my head, I walked into a door back on campus before coming out here…I lost my train of thought for a math problem, well you know how loss of focus and open doors work out.", he said in 'explanation' of the very visible bruises and cuts on his face he received from his very recent adventures in his side job as a ninja for a secret ninja academy.
"Chicago huh?", the Colonel chuckled, "I guess that covers your ability to speak English I suppose, but by any chance do you speak Japanese?", he asked, deciding instead to avoid the obvious running gag he'd heard within his group about weather geeks being too smart to fit a table through a door without having a boy scout with them.
Looking innocently to the officer, (Of course I do or at least better than you do I'll bet.), Ron replied before he switched back to English, "Does that answer your question Sir."
Quizzically he leaned over to one of his men who did speak Japanese, "What did he say?", off-mic, but still loud enough that all heard.
His eyes darting, "Uh, Kaminsky said 'Yes', Sir.", the aide took the safest route with his CO, but made no mention of the snarky tone he understood in the reply.
Smirking knowingly, "Something tells me that isn't quite what he said,", said the man who knew when someone was 'blowing smoke' with him, "but if he can speak Japanese as well as Captain Markus here then I think we can use him at least in a liaison role.", Colonel Warmarster replied.
Turning to Ron, "Son do you know anything about advanced meteorology?"
"Sir I am an intern…a student, so I do not know how I compare to people who have been doing this for years.", Ron reiterated his reason for being here this summer. "I am here to learn, gain experience so I can begin to build a resume for a possible position in this field down the road. When I graduate I plan on returning to the states to complete my education.", Ron/Dean replied.
Looking pensive, "I see, so where are you planning to go for your advanced degree after you graduate from Sapporo?", the Colonel inquired of the fledgling Meteorologist.
Shrugging, "I am not sure at this point, Colonel, but when I get closer to graduation I plan on scoping out who would want someone with my skills.", he replied. "I do hope that I can get into either Colorado or Colorado State, if not Oklahoma when the time comes."
Taking on a look of concern, "Some of the schools out there are relatively expensive…"
"I am well aware of the cost of those schools, but my parents have set aside enough funds for me to go to any school that accepts my application when the time comes, even if it's MIT.", Ron cut in.
His smile taking on one of 'oh one of those pampered guys' kind of looks, "So you're rich too, eh son?", a corner of the Colonel's mouth twitched.
Another unassuming shrug, "I get by Sir.", Ron replied indifferently.
Smelling more than Dean let on from his nonchalance, "So how then did you get to come here?"
Casually continuing, "Well Sir…I, uh asked around and a couple of my former teachers wrote letters of recommendation for me and I guess that helped out some.", Ron replied leaving out his 'In' with a school that had some serious connections with the Japanese Government.
Nodding in acceptance, for the moment, "Well it should help in the long run that you can speak both English and Japanese, so if it's all right with Major Norobi here I can put you with one of our techs on one of the birds. That way we can begin to show you how things operate so that you gain some kind of working knowledge to go with that sheepskin after you graduate."
Smiling, "Thank you Sir, I would like that. That experience would sure help me out in some my classes.", the blond young man said.
Nodding his reply, the Colonel moved on to wrap this meeting up, "Now the final piece of business. I'd like to staff out the birds today so we can get them into the air tomorrow, fully crewed. But before we can do that we need to get those of you without flight suits issued your sets today.", Warmarster announced. "So those of you without flight suits, please raise your hand.", he requested as the non-military personnel complied.
"To that end,", he nodded to an officer who rose from his seat on the front row, "please follow Lieutenant Himorshi to Supply where you will be issued your flight suits.", Colonel Warmarster said to the six males and one female who raised their hands.
XXX
Global Justice:
Hunched over her desk, Betty Director glanced from the papers before her and back to the two individuals standing at ease in front of her desk. After a few more seconds of rereading a passage or two she leaned back in her overstuffed chair. "So what do you think was the cause of this last 'episode' Miss Possible?"
Sighing, "You have to remember Ma'am that I am not a licensed psychiatrist…", the younger red head tried to clarify her position.
Cutting her off, "I know you are not Kimberly,", Betty smiled in agreement, "but you have a history of dealing with these episodes and you know your mind better than we do."
Her eyes glazing briefly, "Yes Ma'am, I suppose so. But as you know I did go in for evaluations and in all cases they found nothing wrong with me.", Kim huffed at the countless times this happened in the past, "However, a friend who was with me on the flight and witnessed my last episode came up with something that I really hadn't thought of in all of this. And maybe I missed it because I was so overwhelmed by those episodes.", she said, concerned how this would be taken by her Boss.
An eyebrow rose, "And what did she come up with?"
Looking to Dr. Director somewhat uncomfortably, "Well the background to this has to do with this one time Ron and I shared a dream…it was like we had a psychic link somehow…"
Betty again cut in, "Not common, but not unheard of either.", she said a little skeptically. Then waving her on, "Please continue Kimberly."
Kim glanced at Wade, who smiled encouragingly to her from his place beside her, "I may be some kind of 'Receiver' and I seem to be receiving some intense, for lack of a better term, visions from someone which are very unsettling.", she said timidly. "But I can only remember receiving one or two that could be placed in the 'nice category'.", Kim continued, tapping a finger on her chin.
Sitting straight in her chair, "Kim…if you were a 'Receiver' as you say you were, wouldn't you 'receive' these kinds of things all the time?", Betty played Devil's Advocate.
"Well from what Doctor Jamile told me, she thinks that I get selective data from a very limited number of people, and this was based upon what she pieced together from what I could remember about those varied episodes I experienced…she said less than five people…", Kim replied, "If I got more than five, she said I'd have these episodes all the time and before long I would be a total fruitcake.", she furrowed her eyebrows in concern. "And then I would be headed off to the looney bin…her terminology, not mine."
Nodding her acceptance of the prognosis of Kim's issues so far, "At least we are closer to finding the cause for your episodes.", Betty said before picking up a small packet of papers. "Now as to your request to travel to Japan, and with the Japanese couple you met during your last visit there…you may do so,", as Kim's eyes flashed in released joy, "as long as you take Mr. Load with you.", she said as she handed the packet to the other red head.
Smiling warmly to Wade as Kim turned to him also, "He is your partner now and I think that he could use some walking in the mountains for the exercise and relaxation while you are trying to find this school that Mr. Stoppable went to on his exchange trip."
Taking the packet, "Yes Ma'am I'm sure we both will take advantage of the offer.", Kim beamed to Dr. Director. "In fact I've been in email contact with the couple we met there last year, Lieutenants Kasumi and Tustoma, and they promised me that they can get some time off from their jobs with the Japanese Defense Forces to show us around.", Kim informed the Agency Director.
"Good.", she nodded. "Now I have taken the liberty to clear this,", and pointed to the packet, "with the Japanese Government when I received word that you were still interested in traveling to Japan.", she said to Kim's immense joy at learning someone she looked up to did this behind the scenes for her.
Continuing as Kim looked to the packet of papers in her hands, "Within are all the introductions and clearances you will need for your upcoming visit to them,", Dr. Director said, "so both of you look them over and take what is for you and keep the rest in that packet.", as both looked to her.
"And while the Japanese Authorities granted you and Dr. Load the permission to undertake your personal business,", Kim flushed lightly, "they have agreed for this to be a 'working vacation' of sorts for you two…", she paused, "and for you two to be low-key 'Emissaries', if you will, between our Agency and their Government.", Dr. Director said as her demeanor went from light to serious.
Taking in the meaning, her charges also went solemn as they understood the meaning of her explanation.
Clasping her hands together and settling them on her desk, "That being said, you two are to treat this as a cultural exchange between GJ and Japan, a kind of first steps between us that your reputation as a Teen Hero helped pave the way to happening. This helped us greatly in our negotiations for this 'first contact' with them after all these years of their benign indifference toward us.", Dr. Director said in quiet significance.
Nodding to Kim, "And your contacts, the couple from the Japanese Air Defense Force, also helped us out in those negotiations, too. We, errr, requested them in a semi-official manner to offer assistance to you while in Japan during this double-edged 'mission' there.", Dr. Director enlightened them. "It also won't hurt for their presence to help cut through any red tape you may encounter while in Japan."
Sighing with a tear in her eye, "I know this was probably a difficult thing to get accomplished and I'm happy to accept this 'gift' you've given me as a part of business between GJ and Japan's Government.", Kim said gratefully, "That you called it a 'cultural exchange' between us and Japan…just brought back so many memories of when Ron went on one there while we were sophomores in high school.", Kim said wistfully as she briefly grasped Wade on his arm.
Nodding, "Yes Kimberly, that I am quite aware of, I've spoken with your Mr. Barkin and he divulged all he had at his disposal on the matter.", Dr. Director said. "That you have friends in Japan who will act as guides for you two, I'm sure you will make a very good go of this as a working vacation while there."
Wide-eyed as her emotions started to overwhelm her, Betty said to Kim and Wade, "Please, you two, sit down before you either fall out or jump into the ceiling and hit your head Kimberly…" Chuckling, "But with the way Wade's been wearing himself out with his physical training regimen, I'm sure it would be he who would fall out other than you, Kimberly.", she finished.
Looking her young Agent over appraisingly, "Though he has not let up on the intensity of his training he's no longer losing any weight…I'd bet before too much longer he's going to be built like a brick.", she smirked. "Quite opposite the image for someone in his chosen field as an Intelligence Officer-in-training at GJ.", she said with professional pride of his hard work.
Grateful for the offered respite the former members of Team Possible took their seats in some very comfortable chairs. They were also relieved that their Boss had undertaken the heavy lifting needed to allow Kim and Wade into Japan for their search for Ron while helping bridge the professional gap between GJ and Japan's Authorities.
And amazingly, all of this went on behind Wade's 'back' without him even getting a sniff of it.
Beaming at her former Techmeister and Guru, "Wade's getting there Ma'am; I even found one of Ron's old workout schedules from high school and gave it to him…" Also looking him over, "And it does look like it gave him the start he needed to get the results he's received."
Taken aback, "Ron Stoppable trained in high school?", Betty asked in amazement at that concept. "For what?"
Frowning at another reminder of just how badly Ron had been overlooked by so many who kept 'score' of such accomplishments in her world, "Yeah, Dr. Director, Ron had been heavily involved in physical training in his last year of high school.", Kim looked levelly at her boss as a long-closed mental door opened in her mind.
An eyebrow twitched, "Did anyone think that the football prowess he put on display on those fall Friday nights came just from his so-called dumb luck?", Kim lowly growled as Wade could tell this had really struck a nerve with his friend and partner. Gesturing to him, "Maybe you could check out some of Ron's old game films, Wade could send you copies of him in action.", she said to a suddenly introspective Dr. Director who nodded her acceptance of the premise.
Silently recalling something she had read about in Kim's quite extensive dossier, yet discounted until this very moment, Dr. Director realized she had stepped on a pet-peeve 'tripwire' the red head had about people discounting her best friend. And she also realized this was compounded by the guilt she must now carry for essentially discounting him the same way in her first year at Oxford. Silently she vowed she would tread lightly with this subject from now on.
Her demeanor neutral, she nodded to Kim as the Agency Intern also realized what was recognized by her 'audience', "I mean, how many guys do you know of, outside of SEAL's who can snorkel a couple of miles of open water, crawl through A/C ducts, fight henchmen® and then sprint a quarter of a mile to safety from an exploding lair?", Kim continued as she reined in her emotions.
A few moments later, she shrugged, "Add to that the usual Mad Dog stuff he used to do as the school mascot and you'd have a stud that any sane girl would want for herself.", Kim huffed a cleansing breath to help her come down from causing a scene on so many levels after what had been a pleasant meeting so far.
Nodding slowly, "I believe there is more to Ron Stoppable than was realized and that GJ should have looked further into this…", Dr. Director started.
Struck by a thought, Kim interrupted, "Think of it Doctor Director; performing all those near-gymnastic moves while wearing that Mad Dog costume and mask for a couple of years must have been really challenging.", she said as she remembered how strenuous his routines had been, "I know it would have been for me…", she admitted.
Snorting, "And Drakken couldn't even remember his name, while Shego also used to call him a buffoon.", Kim said sardonically, "If they had any idea.", she shook her head.
Cautiously Dr. Director just had to ask, "Kimberly why didn't you make any of that public knowledge?", of something that even her agency had missed of the often overlooked Sidekick, including in GJ's own discounted 'Ron Factor' project of days past.
Looking meaningfully at Dr. Director, "Once I figured this out, Ron and I decided to keep this quiet, it would be our 'secret weapon' against those who've made a career of underestimating him in the field.", Kim pointedly replied. "Besides, by then we were dating and his blossoming 'traits', if you will, really started to intensify…on all levels, and then it all became very personal between us.", she gazed knowingly to her boss.
"And after that we didn't want the publicity that would come from the media trying to use that angle to dig further into our personal lives for something sensational to report on 'Kim Possible',", she air quoted sarcastically, "…that could have led to them to discovering our personal activities in the tree house.", Kim sighed as she pinched the bridge of her nose.
"We decided to tone down our off-the-clock activities so we wouldn't run the risk of getting caught doing something which would embarrass our parents if we were intruded upon by some enterprising investigative reporter at the wrong moment."
Hoping to get slightly off this track, Wade decided to chip in, "Ma'am,", he cut in, "I have some old video from Team Possible when they were in high school which might be pertinent. You could use the footage, from start to finish to chart Ron's progression from the beginning of his career with Kim.", he said Dr. Director's grateful nod.
"In fact, I can also include practice and game film taken the season Ron played for the Mad Dogs. Once I find it all I can have it downloaded to my GJ server to prepare for you to look over.", he added to her approval.
Curtly nodding, "Very good Doctor Load, I want you to try and get that accomplished before your flight next Friday."
Kim gawked, "Next Friday?", while Wade's jaw dropped.
Turning back to her, "Yes Kim, the Japanese Government not only agreed to your visit they've fast tracked it to get the ball rolling on these low-key first attempts to bridge our Agency with those of their own.", Dr. Director announced. "To assist you in your travels there, you will be met and accompanied by the aforementioned couple you met last year during our 'Asset Retrieval' mission in Japan.", she also informed them.
Holding up a hand to prevent any questions, "They have been given temporary leave from their current assignments in their Air Force and will act as protocol liaisons and guides throughout your stay in Japan for this First Contact with their country's Security Agencies…", Dr. Director paused, and then lowering her voice, "And to help you with your own personal mission to locate your boyfriend.", she winked to the red head.
Flushed, "Uh thank you Dr. Director for all you've done to set this up for us. We won't let you down with the Japanese Agencies and will do our best to help pave the way for more open interactions between us.", Kim said as she acknowledged the pressure being placed on her and Wade, with this back-channel meet-and-greet.
"And after that I hope I can find Yamanouchi and make things right between Ron and me.", Kim's tiny smile gave off the hope she had for that happening.
"You are welcome Kimberly.", Dr. Director replied formally. Then smiling, "And as your boss I need not remind you that it is time for you to take a bit of a vacation, and I think taking in a little scenery will do just fine.", she said.
Then to Wade, "Doctor Load do you have any problems with this arrangement?"
Smiling brightly, "No Ma'am, none whatsoever, but I think I'd better get my walking shoes broken in better before we leave.", the genius replied.
Lightly clearing her throat, "Uh Ma'am?", Kim asked, "Do you want me to email the couple that we met in Japan last winter?"
Nodding, "Please do and be sure that we know where you will meet them in Japan.", Dr. Director instructed Kim.
Then settling back in her chair before taking a look to each, "Now you both have duties and assignments to take care of before you leave, so you'd best be off to do so.", she directed them as they rose from their chairs. After they stood at attention they waited her dismissal, "And I would suggest the both of you taking some long walks in preparation for the trekking you will be doing also."
With a smile, "Wade, I also suggest you find those shoes and continue to break them in.", she said to his smiled reply.
Saluting them, "Dismissed.", they replied in unison, "Yes Ma'am", and headed out the door to the responsibilities and tasks that awaited them.
After her door closed, Betty heard Kim's muffled "Boooyaaaahh!" filter through her door, after which she shook her head with an amused grin on her face and went back to the paperwork on her desk.
XX
After a few seconds of walking silently, "Sorta happy about this, aren't ya, Kim?", the African-American teen asked, his gaze focused down the hallway.
Her smile dipped briefly to a slight frown, "Don't jinx it Wade…this is the best thing that has happened to me since that one night in the tree hou….", Kim said before she stopped rambling and blushed deeply.
Surprised at the sudden silence, "Huh, something wrong, Kim?" he turned to her.
Now blushing heavily, "Uh…no, no..it's just a memory I just had…that probably needs to be written on an AF site instead of airing it out here vicariously by those dorks we've got for authors…", Kim stuttered in mixed emotions.
Taking what Kim almost said, and some of what he had heard about these 'memories' of hers, the veteran of many years surfing the internet and all that that inferred, Wade had a pretty good idea what she was referring to, "The tree house huh?", with a smirk plastered on his face.
Nodding, "Yeah…", she trailed off as her complexion flushed quickly to the red end of the color spectrum, "The first time was awesome,", as her eyes glazed over, "and the what followed went to amazingly unbelievable.", she shook herself out of her daze.
Looking to her partner, "And Wade, if I ever pull a stunt like this with Ron again,", her eyes furrowed dangerously, "make sure you have someone kick my butt for being so stupid."
Smiling sadly, "Kim it wasn't all your fault…"
Cutting him off, "Maybe not, but enough of it was.", she said in irritation, "I should have been smart enough to call for help…" Then she stopped and turned to look him straight in the eyes, "Wade, promise me you'll never let me isolate myself ever again."
Sighing wearily, "Kim, part of the problem then was that we had no idea what you were going through.", Wade replied before grasping her hands, "If we had known, I'm sure that your Mom and Dad would have gotten you home.", he said, looking down into her emerald eyes, "But that is in the past and as long as you don't repeat this and have learned from it, then you will be stronger for it.", as he squeezed her hands.
Then letting them go, "Now I'm going to advise you to think long and hard about your relationship to Ron…", he began.
Interrupting him, "Why Wade?", Kim asked in mystification.
Shrugging, "Simple…maybe finding him won't be that easy. But as far as I know he hasn't popped back in Middleton, and, while I've been watching the world, it is a very big place.", he said with a sad grin, "So there may a lot of rocks he could be hiding under that I'd never know of."
Her heart sinking, "Do you think he's broken?, Kim frowned, "'Cause if that happened, I'm sure that I brought it about with him…", she said, then bit her lip in worry, "I didn't realize it at the time, but it could have happened."
Lightly shrugging again, "Maybe…I just don't know, but maybe it would be better if he was broken, Kim.", Wade replied to her horror.
As she started to sink into despair, "Kim!", he said sharply but quietly, bringing her out of her approaching hysteria, "Could you imagine if the opposite was true?, Wade said knowingly. "That if he wasn't broken then maybe he didn't care for you as you thought he did. But we both know that he did love you, very much, and knowing Ron the way we do anything like what happened like it did could have only affected him that way."
"But how is that a good thing?", Kim whispered in fear, "How would him being broken from what I did to him be a good thing, Wade?"
"Kim, I saw him in those months where you left all of us in the dark…I saw how he was when he was completely cutoff from your family, and by extension,", he paused when he saw her coming reaction, "you.", then grasped her arms in support as tears formed in her eyes.
As those tears started to fall, "I knew what he was going through proved to me that he loved you more than you ever knew." They fell harder. "But what you didn't know was that he loved you way before he confessed that to you at Bueno Nacho HQ.", her eyes registered surprise and disbelief through the tears.
Nodding, "Yes, he did. For as long as I've known you two I could see it in his eyes, the things he did for you that went beyond for a best friend. But he kept it hidden from you.", Wade confessed to her. "It really became obvious to me the night he chased that flower down in the Amazon and blew that pollen on you so you could continue your date with Josh Mankey.", her eyes tearing up again at the memory.
"What you didn't know was that after you left to finish your date, he stayed alone in the bushes talking to himself." Kim tensed up and stared at him. "Over and over again he kept asking why he wasn't good enough, before he eventually went home.", as tears rolled down her cheeks to accompany her soft sobs.
"So maybe what happened that fall when you were in England could have pushed him into going off and improving himself, and all he was looking for was a sign…", he said as Kim sniffled.
"Yeah, and the sign he got from me was 'Not Wanted'", she groaned. "Oh Wade, why did he ever put up with me like he did?", she cried.
"Short answer Kim…Ron Stoppable loves you.", he replied.
Derisively snorting through the tears, "You mean 'Loved', don't you.", Kim blubbered before she wiped her eyes, "Wade, as much as I want him here with me…why would he show up?", she cried as she wrung her hands.
Sighing, "By now some other girl, or girls, are probably enjoying what I took for granted when I had him.", she said forlornly, "But I guess I'm getting what I deserved from this and all I can hope for is to reestablish our friendship when I find him, if that'll ever happen."
Breaking in before she fell further into that abyss, "Kim…no pity fest here, ok?, Wade said, "I meant loves, as in a guy doesn't spend most of his life supporting someone, then after getting sweaty in a tree house with her for about a year…", he winked to her, "and just like that gives up?", he shook his head, "I just don't believe he would just give up something he fought so hard for.", he said to rally her spirits. "Trust me, he still loves you."
Continuing to wipe away the tears, "I hope you're right Wade.", Kim recomposed herself for a moment then looked to a nearby clock. "Now it's late and we're scheduled for an hour of PT then we're gonna do,", she eyed him here, "an hour and a half of sparring to burn off that meal we ate today. And I expect each of us to put some extra effort into it.", as the very familiar 'Coach Possible' came out at the end.
Recalling the video he reviewed when she coached the Tweebs' soccer team, he sighed, "Yeah Kim, you're right about that, and I guess we might as well get it over with…", as each went off together down the hall to close out their day.
XXX
Rocky Mount's Bar & Grill: The Dinner hour.
Happily anticipating the arrival of their friend, Justine (for the next few months…) Flanner and her fashion diva friend Monique searched the crowd of the little Italian restaurant they were seated in for a glimpse of a red mane they were so familiar with.
Excitedly pointing, "There she is Justy!", Monique said before waving to the approaching fellow graduate of Middleton High.
Snorting in tipsy sarcasm, "It's about time Moni, I'm on my third beer.", before she drained the mug.
Not so 'wieldy' herself, "Yeah I know, me too.", she snorted in reply, "Let's see why she wanted to meet with us for dinner."
Walking up, Kim gave both women a warm hug, "How have you guys been?", as she noted the 'aroma' around her friends.
"Busy.", Monique responded then nodded to her dinner companion, "Justine has about six months till Mike gets out and then it's gonna be wedding bells for the skinny, brainy blonde here.", she said. Then looking at Justine in calculation, "But before then we gotta find some way to put some meat on her, she's way too thin. And as for me Coco is running me around like a crazy person….", she frumped, "But the pay is waaaayy good.", she said in happy consolation.
Smiling, "Good for you guys.", Kim replied and noted that Justine was a little slow on the uptake at the moment.
Her ego getting an assist from her previous libations, "In a bit less than a year, I'm off the market.", she crowed. "Boy are all the other girls in Middleton going to be happy.", Justine smirked as her synapses fired off a response she never would have made under more temperate circumstances.
Pointing a thumb at Justine while Kim seemed to be stifling a giggle, "She's had a three beers tonight and when we leave we're taking a taxi home.", Monique deadpanned to her longtime friend.
Settling down, "Well congratulations to you again Justine, I can't wait for the big day.", Kim said, then took her seat.
Looking to her, "What about you there hero girl? What are you up to for the foreseeable future?", Monique asked.
"Well guys I'm going to spend two more years in England and then I am coming home permanently.", Kim informed them.
"You tell your 'rents yet?", Monique asked, her eyebrows raised in delight.
"Yeah I did, and I am going into a graduate program in Upperton.", she said with a smile. Then looking around longingly, "Being so close to Middleton I'll be home every weekend and then we can get together more often."
Nodding happily, "Sounds like more and more alumni are returning to their roots.", Justine observed.
Laughing lightly, "Just give me two more years and I'll be home for the duration.", Kim said to them. "And for sure I'll be home next year for the big event.", Kim pointed out.
Coyly, "Oh, you mean our little get-together?", Justine asked.
Smirking, "Yeah the one with you in white.", Kim said, then peered at her, "So, is Mike going to wear his Marine uniform?"
Shrugging and lightly shaking her head, "At this point I don't know Kim, when we tie the knot he will have been out about six months."
Nodding, "Ok, I guess we'll see when the time comes.", Kim replied. Then with an evil grin, "But a little birdie told me that you two had some after-hours fun about a week ago.", her voice going higher at the end. Ducking down conspiratorially, "Was it as good as you remember it?"
"Yup.", the heavily blushing blonde replied as her eyes glazed over. That her complexion's condition was from her alcohol intake, the memories of the event, or both, was up for speculation at that table.
Fanning herself frantically with a table place setting, "Lord would you two stop talking about that?", Monique moaned, "I haven't had any action for over a year, and the frustration is killing me!"
Kim chuckled in sympathy with her friend, "I know what you mean 'Nique, but if you remember I've gone without a lot longer…And you don't see me complaining do you?"
Each looking to the other, "Oh yes you have.", the two chorused when they turned back to Kim before holding back a giggle-fit.
Hands up in mock-surrender, "Ok, ok stop it you two, I admit it, you've got me there.", Kim laughed along as she remembered the times she cried on her friends' shoulders about this sitch. Blunted somewhat over time, the harsh sting of the memories of how her Kimness train-wrecked the relationship with her long-missing boyfriend could now be talked of a bit easier these days.
After they settled down, "Well belly up to the bar Possible, you're waaayy behind on the drinks.", Justine warbled to the red head.
Smiling in light regret, "I need to keep my head clear tonight, so I'm only going to have a couple of glasses of wine with a light dinner.", the red head shook her head at the two.
Interests piqued, "Why?", from Monique as Justine also looked on in surprise.
"I have to get on chat and make contact with that couple I met in Japan last winter.", Kim explained.
Perking up, "Oh and why's that?", Justine asked curious about her friend's interest in the couple.
Excitedly, "Well Wade and I are going over…on GJ liaison related business,", she said, not giving away company business in public, "and they will be our guides and interpreters for that.", as Kim gave the gist of the event as the two women took in her explanation.
Then eyes bright, "And maybe when that's over with, they'll be able to help me locate Yamanouchi…", before she bit her lip, "I really need to speak to the Headmaster of the school there.", Kim said with hope in her voice.
Scratching her chin, "That name…its familiar somehow. I've heard of it somewhere…", from Monique, a blank look from Justine.
Looking meaningfully at her, "I've mentioned it before Moni; it's where Ron went on that exchange trip."
Eyebrows sharply up, "Why do you want to go there GF?"
Looking between her friends, Kim bit her pensively lip, "Cause that might be where Ron went.", her eyes hopeful, "If he's still there…and available…", her voice lowering as she sighed, "maybe he'll take me back and come to live with me in England while I'm finishing up there."
A gleam in her eyes, "GF, you sure horny ain't driving that bus of yours?", Monique smirked while Kim flushed lightly and they giggled for a few moments.
After the hormonal-based mirth ended, Justine frowned, "It's been almost four years Possible. He may not even be there anymore, or he may have found someone…", she reasoned, "You have to consider it."
Sighing after biting her lower lip, "Yeah I know, but they might have a line on where he is so that I can contact him and find out where I stand with him.", Kim said, her own eyes downcast.
"Ok girlfriend,", Monique told her friend, "you've been going on about him long enough to convince me that you really want this situation to be over." Monique said before she raised her hand to get a waiter's attention and Kim could order something from their menu. "Now maybe you can get that taken care of."
Timidly, "I at least need to talk to him guys…", Kim drifted off. Sighing again, looking down at the table, "Has it been four years?", she shook her head and looked to her friends. "What's he done with his life up to now and where is he going? I'd..I'd like to know…if he's available..if not, then,", she gulped, "maybe I'd have to move on with my life", she fretted. "Maybe…just maybe,", she whispered, "we can rekindle our friendship.", a tear appeared in her eye. "I'd hate to have lost that…even if it's all I have left.", she shrunk down in her seat.
Monique was having none of that, "Talk to him?", she shook her head, "Girl, your hormones are doing jumping jacks while hopscotching all over the place whenever you talk about Ron.", she replied in a no-nonsense tone. "Your fear of what's become of him are having it out with those vibes I'm getting from you to jump in the sack with him every time you talk about that blond goof.", she retorted.
A little miffed, "I'm not that bad…", Kim shot back.
Wagging a finger, "Oh no? Hell girl you're worse than Flanner here.", Monique nudged Justine with her elbow.
A little slow on the uptake, the inebriated blonde genius rallied indignantly, "Hey!", before she seemed to hunker down and pay better attention to the back-and-forth at their table.
With a haughty look and reply, "Don't worry Justine the hangover you'll have in the morning will make you think twice about tying one on for a while.", Monique cast a knowing eye at her bud.
With a goofy smirk, "Just celebrating the test strip being pink, Monique…", Justine let hang before she looked to her now-empty glass.
Kim froze in place, then after a few seconds looked to her classmate in wide-eyed shock, "Huh?", was all she could manage to say.
Nodding to Flanner, "She's been off her BC meds a couple of months now because something wasn't working quite right with her body chemistry.", Monique told Kim. "She knew she was taking a chance with Big Mike when we visited with him in North Carolina while we went to pick up my car…" , she said to a goggle-eyed red head.
Incredulous, she knew that Monique delayed returning home for this 'errand', "Why didn't you drive it back before then?", Kim asked, looking back and forth between her friends. Then glaring to the tipsy blonde, "And why are you drinking in this condition?", she said as Justine opened her mouth to speak.
Cutting her off, "Cause her beau was going to be there for about a week before he went back overseas, Kim.", Monique said and looked to the blonde also, "And I've tried to cut her off, but not brainy girl.", she frumped. "You'd think with all those smarts she'd listen to reason…", she ranted. "But it's her life, I've tried.", the fashion diva crossed her arms across her chest.
Then looking to Kim, "And as for nuptials, hell, I'd even coordinate something like that for you and Stoppable if I had the chance.", she grinned to Kim in a way that the red head thought was a little too calculating.
Cocking an eye at her GF, "Thanks for the offer Monique, and if the opportunity arises I'll keep it in mind…But if you find him first, I still have first dibs with him.", Kim replied in mock seriousness.
Mock-miffed, "Ok GF, but if you end up walking down the aisle to him,", she returned the eyebrow, "I get to be your Maid of Honor."
"Deal.", Kim said as she and Monique shook hands, and then giggled at the 'drama' between them.
Crossing her arms across her chest, "And if skinny boy picks me…", she paused for a moment, "then you get to be my Maid of Honor.", Monique smirked and waited to see what rise she could get out of her red haired friend.
Her eyes flashed, "You. Did. Not. Just. Say. That. Girlfriend!", Kim grated out as her complexion seemed to be on its way to spontaneous combustion.
Though she may have been half in the bag, Justine caught the tone, "Whoa Kim, slow down!", she held her hands up between the two to stop an upcoming brawl, "While I have to admit there is such a thing as justifiable homicide, I don't think that excuse would fly here."
Monique laughed nervously for a moment, "Girlfriend you are too easy, I won't ever do anything like that to you.", she Cheshire-cat-grinned to Kim.
Relaxing after realizing Monique had played her, Kim relaxed as the waiter arrived, "Do you have any craft beers?", she asked him. Looking to Monique and Justine, "I guess I'd better get on track a little to celebrate with you two."
After the brown haired young man produced a card listing the beers served there, Kim took it as Monique got his attention, "One more for us."
He nodded and took down their order as Kim smiled to him and, "O'Fallon Gold on tap.", as her order.
Nodding to her, "Ok,", he said as he looked her over a little, "but I gotta card you..I want to be sure…you're of legal age, you know?", the waiter stumbled his delivery.
Reaching into her purse, "Sure.", Kim said as she pulled her driver's license from her wallet, allowing him to see her name and age related information, but covered her address with her thumb, "Here you go."
Looking awkwardly to her, he stuttered, "Uh…I..I sorta need to see….", as he seemed a little too anxious to Kim.
Smirking with a glint in her eye, "Where I live.", Kim finished his statement. Fixing him with a look that only villains saw when she was taking them down, "No, you, don't.", she said and froze him in his tracks as he tried to rebut her.
"If you don't believe me,", as Kim pointed to a window at the front of the restaurant, "I'll just have that cop out there come in here to 'splain it to you."
Looking out the window the waiter saw Sergeant Hobble at a car speaking to someone in the driver's seat.
Gulping and slowly turning back to the fiery red head, "You see kid, I too am a cop of sorts and Sergeant Hobble and I go way back in our respective fields of service.", Kim said and let that sink in for a moment.
Then fixing him with another glare, "And he'd agree with me that you don't have to see my address; that you have no legal or legitimate reason to see anything but my picture, my name, and my birthdate on my legally issued identification.", Kim said with authority.
Lowering her voice, her eyes boring into his, "And between you and me…I don't care to be stalked. It wouldn't go well for you.", Kim said to the wannabe Lothario, who shuffled off to get their drink order filled.
Then with a glint in her eye, before he got very far away, "And no more alcohol for Justine here, only iced tea for the rest of the night.", Kim projected her voice to his receding back.
Opening her mouth to protest, Justine stopped and collapsed in her seat, "Yes mother.", she groused as Monique fell into a giggle fit.
XXX
An island in the Caribbean:
Placing their daughter into her husband's lap, "All right Drew, keep an eye on Sam while I check the hot dogs.", the mint skinned woman said to her blue skinned husband as she made for the outdoor grill from their seats at a beach side table.
Calling out to her as she lifted the lid to the grilling hot dogs, "I'm telling you Shego, lobster rolls would have been so much better…"
A hand on her hip, tongs in the other, "And you forgot to have the lobster delivered didn't you?", she replied with a smirk before she turned them one last time.
Pouting, "Well now that you bring it up…"
Interrupting the onset of a whining rant, "I saw the list that you sent off Drew, there was no lobster on it.", Shego reminded him of his oversight.
Huffing in defeat, "Very well, I admit leaving it off the supplies list last week.", Drakken tried to sulk, but his daughter's fascination with her parents' back-and-forth caught his attention and brightened his mood somewhat.
The turning of the dogs complete, Shego closed the lid and returned to her family, "Drew don't worry about it, the supplies coming in next week will have plenty.", she told him. "In fact, you can make them for the whole staff, too."
Once back to their covered table, Shego took in their daughter's glee while Drew played with her. Smiling she took her seat and pulled it closer to them and rubbed Sam's back. Sitting back she looked out over the water to the setting sun and sighed happily before opening her arms to invite her daughter to sit in her lap.
Hugging her close, Shego looked to Drew and reached out a hand which he took and both sat quietly for a few more moments before it was time to remove their dinner from the grill. While Shego placed the hot dogs on a small platter, Drew and Sam retreated to the beach side bungalow's fridge and cupboard to retrieve the rest of their meal. After all the fixings, sides and condiments were laid out on the outdoor picnic table, they began the process of melding it together for their late afternoon meal.
Quiet, happy noises were heard from the trio as their assembly went the way it usually did of families who had love in their hearts for each other as they interacted with each other. Laughter, giggles and the occasional squeal was heard as 'some assembly required' also led to some mishaps resulting in misfired mustard by the youngest or hot dog buns unprepared for the grandiose additions to them by the scientist of the family to the basic 'red hot', or the scoffs heard to one big city girl's haughty claims of what the ultimate hot dog was in relation to other locale's pale imitations.
All-in-all it was a good ending to the day as the sun continued to set and the automatic lighting slowly started to come up to a soft glow around the bungalow, while the little family of former supervillains and their offspring settled down at the table to eat their dinner and take in the darkening scenery fading into the approaching night.
XXX
A warehouse in Tacoma Washington:
After making his way up the stairs to the above-floor office, a very thin, clipboard carrying, man knocked on the door.
Through the door he heard, "Come in.", and walked in to his balding supervisor seated at his desk, dealing with paperwork. "Yes, Clarence, what is it?", came from the desk.
Pointing a thumb behind him towards the warehouse floor, "Mr. Ingersol, a shipment of some kind has just arrived.", Clarence Pinkney replied.
Without looking up from his paperwork, "What kind of shipment?", Alfred Ingersol growled to his foreman.
Shuffling uneasily, "All I can say is that it's a very large crate.", he shrugged.
Looking up, "Well which company is it addressed to?", Ingersol fixed him with a stare.
Shaking his head, "There is no company listed on it, anywhere, just this address."
Sighing in resignation, "Ok, bring it in and open it up, maybe whoever sent it has the wrong address, again.", he waved to his floor manager.
Nodding, "Ah yes Sir, we considered that, but we've checked and nobody's expecting anything right now, and we don't have anything scheduled to be delivered here either.", he replied.
Taking this in, "Well Clarence, what's the sending address?", he asked, his patience starting to wear thin.
"Tokyo Japan."
Leaning on his desk, "Are you sure that we didn't have anything coming in?", Ingersol asked, this had happened before.
Holding up his clipboard, "Yes Sir, we're clear of deliveries right now, and for sure nothing from Japan.", as Clarence fanned the sheets on the board. Then after locating one particular sheet, "But we do have some things coming in from South Korea at the end of next week, but nothing like this."
Waving him off, "Go ahead and uncrate it, but make sure you have a camera on it too. We don't want any problems with the intended receiver if they claim we messed up their delivery.", he growled. A dismissive wave, "I'll be up here if you need me.", Ingersol said and went back to his paperwork.
Nodding, "Sure thing, Sir.", Clarence turned and went back to the floor.
X
Standing far enough away so as to not be underfoot, Clarence watched as two of his warehouse men worked with hammers and crowbars to open the top of the crate. Surveillance cameras were focused on the crate.
An edge cracked open and one of the men suddenly 'teleported' away from his task, "Daaammmmnnnnn! ", he shouted. Gasping for fresh air, "Man! What is that smell?", he yelled as others nearby also caught a whiff of what had the first guy gagging.
Halting them, "Hang on for a second, I'll be right back.", Clarence instructed and walked back to his office to retrieve what he suspected he would need for what created this odor in the box. It wasn't unheard of but snakes did get packed away in crates like this one.
He returned a couple of minutes later with a handgun tucked in his belt, just in case, "Go ahead.", he ordered.
With raised eyebrows both men began to attack the crate again, taking care to be as upwind as they could.
His hand near an opening at the top of the crate, one said, "Hey, whatever's in here is cold!"
After a few more seconds the top was removed and both men gingerly started to remove the plastic foam they found packed on top.
Tossing the foam away they stopped when one found a plastic bag and unable to see through the bag due to the smears inside the bag, opened it up. Focusing on the object in the bag, horrified, "Oh shit!", he dropped it back in when he realized what he had.
His gun at the ready, Clarence cautiously walked to the box, glanced in and jumped back when he noticed six faces, nestled in ice, staring at him.
Startled, he jumped back a foot, then after a violent shudder he quickly walked to the in-house phone and dialed Ingersol's office phone.
"Yes, what is it?", Ingersol barked.
Gulping, "Mr. Ingersol, you gotta see this,", he said, "but first you might wanna call that emergency number that we got from our benefactor."
Impatient, "What is it?", he shouted in reply.
Looking back to the box, "Just come on down here, we have a problem.", he said with a shudder. "And bring something to cover your face with. It's pretty rank."
Three minutes later Ingersol, with a handkerchief held over his mouth and nose, approached his men and the crate.
A little put out that his presence was called for with something he felt should have been taken care of by his foreman, "Ok Clarence, what's the big deal? Couldn't you take care of whatever the hell you called me down for?", he growled. "And what's with the handkerchief anyway?"
Flipping the lid off the crate, "This.", he replied and ducked back while his boss took the brunt of the 'aroma' wafting from the box.
Trying not to revisit the lunch he ate a few hours ago, "Gawwwwd damn.", he gagged out. "You..guys get that…top back on that crate and back off. I gotta call…security.", he sputtered as he tried to get his pride back.
After a few seconds recomposing himself he pulled a wad of bills from a pants pocket, "Take your crew and head over to Chick's Bar, buy yourselves a couple of beers…and then bring me back a bottle of Jim Beam©, I need a drink."
Grateful for the 'happy hour' while still on the clock, "Sure boss, but…", Clarence gestured to the box and his men.
"Get outta here…now!", he cut his foreman off, "You didn't see nothin'! Understand?.", he looked meaningfully to him and the crew.
Worried at the underlying threat from his boss, though they operated some shady ventures all the time from this warehouse, he'd never seen Ingersol behave like this for anything until now, "Uh sure, boss.", Clarence replied, "We didn't see nothin', just like you said and we're going to get those beers you're paying for…"
Then taking in his boss' nervous demeanor and sweat forming on his face, "Yeah, and you look like you need that JB, too. I'll be right back after I get the guys down to Chick's", Clarence said as he quickly shuffled his men towards the freight door after they put the top over the crate.
"Yeah, but put that bottle at the loading dock and don't come back inside till I tell you, got it?", he said to his confused foreman. Before Clarence got to the roll down, "You got your cell, right?"
Pulling it from his holster, "Yeah.", he held it up.
A sharp nod, "Good, I'll call you later, now get outta here!", he dismissed them and turned back to the box, handkerchief over his mouth as he walked by it on his way to his office to make that phone call.
It would be several hours beyond the next morning's start of shift before the seven men who exited the warehouse would be notified to stay away from the building until further notice.
Five hours after the exodus:
Rising unsteadily from the chair he'd been sitting in as ordered after making that call, Alfred Ingersol tucked his JB away and made his way to the Employee's Entrance to answer the door. Several hard knocks announced the presence of what he found were five men impatiently waiting to be let into the building.
Upon entry, all wrinkled their noses at the rank smells that still lingered despite Ingersol's best efforts to diminish them. There was only so much that could be done other than cover the box in plastic sheeting to trap the smells and use interior fans to blow the ambient air to a blind alley behind the warehouse.
After the five newcomers made their way to the box, still some distance between them and it, Ingersol walked up to the man who seemed to be in charge, "Sir.", he said as he shook the one-eyed man's hand, "I'm glad you could come on such short notice."
Looking from him to the box, "Well you said that you had a unique situation and we wondered if it had any connection to one of our groups we lost contact with last week.", he said before extending his metal hand to the box, "Now have you taken the precautions as required for instances such as this one?"
Nodding, "Yes sir, as soon as I and a couple of my men saw what was in the box, I sent my men away and told them to say nothing and to not return until I called them.", Ingersol said which greatly placated his boss.
Grimly, "Good, now if you please, show me this box and its contents, I'd like to get this over with.", the one-eyed man ordered him.
Pausing to take a mask from his underling, he walked with Ingersol as the others kept their distance until told to do otherwise.
X
Though hardened by years as a worldwide crime boss, what he saw and smelled bothered the big man. Using his 'real' hand to hold the mask over his face, he withstood the rank smells of decaying flesh long enough to identify several 'faces' packed into the icy sludge covering the rest of the body parts in the crate.
Gasping for air, "Now I know why we heard nothing from this outfit until now.", he said to Ingersol. Pointing to a head, a look of abject terror on its face, "That man was in charge of my Tokyo operation."
Looking to the head, "Yes sir, something serious must have happened to have him go with his face looking like that.", Ingersol agreed. Then handing his boss an envelope, "Before calling you I found this in the crate."
Agitated at the envelope's suspected source, "Why didn't you say so?", he barked at his 'employee'. "Give me that!", and snatched it from his hand.
Chastised, "Sorry sir, it won't happen again.", he said to a man who had offered a 'seat' to so many before him for lesser 'transgressions' than this one.
Examining the envelope, then looking to his subordinate, "Did you open it?", he eyed him carefully.
Returning the gaze with no hint of deceit, "No Sir, it appeared to be a private communication for your eye only, so I just secured it until you got here.", he replied.
Nodding in satisfaction, the one-eyed man tore the envelope open and found only a small white card, blank on one side, a sketch and writing on one side. Grunting in building aggravation, he scanned the card for a few moments before thrusting it in Ingersol's face.
Snarling, "Do you know what this represents?", Sheldon Director asked the warehouse manager.
Startled, "N….no Sir.", Ingersol almost backed away.
Grunting, "Good.", he said, "Now I want you to take your keys with you and leave the building.", he ordered. "And don't come back for three days."
Surprised, "Sir?", he stammered.
His eye boring into his, "Just do it and don't ask questions.", he said menacingly.
Gulping, "Yes Sir.", Ingersol turned and rushed to an exit, but not before retrieving his bottle.
After Ingersol cleared the door one of the other four walked up to the former WWEE Leader, "Sir, what do you wish us to do?"
"Remove the box and the 'contents'.", he ordered. "Then sanitize the place, remove all traces of that box and what was in it…It was never here.", Sheldon further instructed.
The orders given, all went to carry them out to his exacting demands.
As he oversaw their work, "I have another score to settle with this 'Mountain'!", he spat under his breath.
XXX
Rocky Mount's Bar & Grill: Later that night.
After dinner the three girls had one last drink (to Justine's dismay it was her third iced tea) as Kim declared, "Any more of these and I'm gonna have to take a cab like you two already are."
Smirking to the red head, "Yeah and you might go home with that cute Waiter too.", Monique replied, reminding Kim of the young man's repeated attempts to hit on Kim all night.
"You can go with him Moni, I'll take Justine home for you.", Kim offered while patting the chastised future mom on the back.
In mock disgust, "I'm not that horny hero girl.", Monique huffed at her.
In mock seriousness, tilting her head to her friend, an eyebrow raised, "And I only need the itch scratched by one guy Monique, so let's leave it there."
XXXX
And this draws the curtain to the latest chapter in our sprawling tale. Ron's settling in with his summer internship while Kim has quite the full day at GJ and then with friends. While Ron's getting noticed by the leader of the training cadre in Japan, Kim's been debriefed, surprised, welcomed, near-stalked and finally marinated by the end of the day.
While this was taking place a 'message delivered' event was taking place at one of The Mountain's unwanted conduits to the Far East that promises so much in the way of fireworks when both groups finally meet…head-on.
Until the next chapter, Larry and I wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.