Hi everyone, those of you still following this tale, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a belated welcome back after a hiatus, proving once again that life happens when you are making other plans.
Before we start this up, we'd like to thank the following for their support of this tale, overt and covert as it may be: nico2883, DarthManwe, Sentinel103, Rangarino, Mahler Avatar, marubang043, etyberz, otakufanatic, ChaoStar, Kapnord1993, merceralex117 and disney6667 (as the Mysterious Guest); thank you all for your support.
Previously, while Kim and Wade made it to Yamanouchi, courtesy of their 'local guides' where each started their individual training with the Ninja Academy, Ron was getting a taste of action in the field he had chosen, after getting a 'taste' of something from home. Mysteries regarding Kim's intermittent 'nightmares', no matter the time of day, were resolved by Sensei's mystical investigations, and Wade was expanding his horizons to include those realms that can't be quantified through science and technology, while Ron was experiencing a Category-One Hurricane (or would it be called a Typhoon, since it's in the Pacific…?) out over open water.
These three are starting out on the ground floor of their endeavors, while others in their lives are about to make announcements impacting surrounding family, and memories and regrets still haunt others.
And again, we have to make the usual disclaimer to keep the Billable-Hour-Crowd for the Mouse Empire at bay: If you saw them on Kim Possible, they belong to Disney, we're just borrowing them for a while, sans lucre…All else are their own entities, or created by Larry, hisself…
Storm Chaser
Chapter 31
Yamanouchi, Japan:
Wiping sweat from her brow, Kim's thoughts drifted to a much desired hot bath, sans white gi and black belt of course, and then to the dining hall for dinner before her after-meal meeting. At Yamanouchi for some time now, she knew she couldn't stay too much longer, she had to get back to the remainder of the reasons she was in Japan.
At school with Wade for the last two and a half weeks, her entire body ached from all the accelerated training she had undergone in that time. After each session it felt as if she'd been beaten with a foam-wrapped baseball bat.
Groaning internally, 'I wonder if this is what Ron went through while he was here.', the worn-out red head contemplated. Shaking her head to focus on the task at hand, 'Got to get through this, dinner's coming soon with Sensei and he's meeting with me for more meditation training…and something else he's been really vague about.'
Gathering her thoughts, she looked over to her partner, marveling at the changes the training regimen had brought about to him. If nothing else, he was toughening up and it showed on his frame.
Catching his eye, "Wade?"
Glancing to her, "Yeah Kim?"
Contrite, "Sorry I got you into training with me…", her hand waved around, "Here. I didn't think that we'd be doing this all this.", she paused. "It's hard for me and they're just as tough on you…"
A tired grin, "Don't worry Kim, I've come to like it.", Wade replied, wiping his brow, "And one of the girls I've been sparring with has been talking to me between classes...", looking down shyly, "I think she likes me, and if this works out Mom is going to be happy that her baby is seeing a girl instead of a computer monitor."
Kim's green eyes opened wide, "Wade…? Are you sweet on a girl you met in self-defense class?", a smirk beginning to form.
It was difficult for the African-American, but he did manage a visible blush. "Yeah Kim, we've talked for a while now and exchanged email addresses so that we can keep in touch when you and I get back home."
"Why haven't you said anything before?", she quizzed him. "I know we don't see a lot of each other during the day because of our training schedules and the history and language classes, but this is more than a little surprise…", she said before she squeezed his shoulder. "I'm proud of you…", she beamed to Wade.
Blushing and stammering, "I..I wasn't sure…before now Kim,", Wade said. "and yeah, we don't get to talk much…but now that we are almost done with this, I am glad we did it…and maybe since I might have a girlfriend…"
Smiling warmly, "Then it was good that you came Wade, everyone needs someone…", she said before she faltered, her smile fading.
Putting a hand on Kim's shoulder, "And you do too Kim.", Wade reassured her, "If you and Ron ever get together again make sure you tie him down.", he smirked.
"I'll have the Tweebs make up a containment sphere to keep him in till I have a chance to talk to him about 'us'.", she replied.
A knowing look, "If they need any help let me know, I'm sure I can come up with something to make sure that he doesn't get away again."
Smiling back, "Thanks Wade you've always rocked.", she said. Then shifting topics, "So are you going to talk to her? This girl, I mean?"
"Yeah, I am. We're having dinner together tonight while you're with Sensei. We'd like to include you eventually, but Sensei has you tied up until it's time to turn in."
Anxious to say anything about what she'd worked on with the old Headmaster of the school, he cautioned Kim against revealing what she had learned of herself for now. She was learning more and more about herself but the old man kept alluding to something about her destiny (and with nothing more than that to go on, she had no idea what he meant), so she did what he asked and did not spill anything to Wade.
Looking sheepishly to him, "He does for reason I don't yet understand, and I'm sorry Wade, I didn't mean to be this busy…"
Smiling, "Don't be Kim, I too, have found a lot out about myself while here.", Wade said before looking himself over, "And between you and these guys…I think my physique is a little better with all the training."
A warm smile in return, "That it is Wade, you've made great strides in your conditioning.", she said appraisingly. "In fact I think that the rest of your excess body fat is almost gone now.", Then with a gleam in her eye, "There are going to be more girls keeping an eye on you.", she teased.
Blushing lightly, "Thanks Kim, I've been trying, and this one girl who has really been pushing me…we've been spending some time together, off class.", Wade replied. "At first she said she was trying to make her English better, but she studies computer science like I do…So it kinda went from there."
Done for the day, the young friends made their way back to the school where they encountered Mushi Hamboto, a young man they met in the first days at Yamanouchi. He bowed to them, "Miss Possible-san, Doctor Load-san it is good to see you. Did you have a good training day?"
Bowing, "Yeah we did.", the two Americans chorused, then giggled before Kim said "Jinx!", to Wade's frustration.
Slightly perplexed, "I…have been told that Doctor Load has a dinner date with one of our students.", Mushi said, gathering his quiet bearing. Then to Kim, "Sensei again has invited you to dine with him this evening Miss Possible-san. Is this agreeable?"
"Uh sure…I…I mean it would be my honor.", Kim replied, "We usually spend time after dinner working on my mental attributes though."
"Very good Sensei told me that he will be expecting you at six o'clock. Please come in a clean gi and be punctual as usual.", Mushi said before bowing to them, and leaving them to their tasks.
XXX
Meanwhile:
The taunt, (Gaijin are you ready for a trip to the hospital…I will send you flowers befitting the little girl you are…), floated across the mat.
Dean Kaminsky glanced at his opponent across the mat and caught the amused sneer. 'Great I can't just go and stomp him right off the bat.', he lightly sighed.
'I've got to bumble around a little first, and maybe redline his overconfidence about me.', he contemplated. 'And since I am honor bound to try my best for Master Hukkuri I can't let his insults pass.', Dean resolved.
After a slight nod to his decision, Dean smiled to his foe, (Was that your little Sister who served me in the tea house the other night?), he shot back. Smirking, (I must say she was veeeerrrrry entertaining.), as he noted his opponent's features start to redden. Continuing on to ramp up the insults, (She said that her brother could join in and make the experience more fun as well…), Dean's smirk widened. (I am not sure what she meant, do you?), before he took his place across his current sparring partner.
Bowing to his opponent, whose black belt was as not nearly as frayed Ron's actual belt, a bow was made in return. Then sliding his left foot back into a relaxed 'L Stance' (Back Stance), his hands were at his side, practically inviting his Japanese opponent to attack him.
Mystified, 'He is egging me on? What is it with him?', Major Anguri Suposo frowned. 'Well since my insults have had no effect.', before he quickly slid to his opponent with what he thought was blinding speed to catch the blond American by surprise. His intention, to show this upstart gaijin and his students who was the better martial artist in his dojo.
A bit vain, the Japanese senior Karate instructor had always been very good at his art, yet somewhat demanding of attention from those in his circle. It was with this attitude foremost in his mind that he opened his sliding attack upon the almost defenseless gaijin with a back-leg spin-sidekick. (Normally you would never start with a spin side, but this just showed how little Karate dude thought of the American's martial arts prowess. A/N)
As the Karate Master's kick darted in, the blond American raised his right leg at the first sign of the spin and executed a front-leg snap-sidekick to Suposo's hip, stopping him in his tracks as his body twisted. This stopped the man in his tracks, drove him back a few inches and threw him off-balance.
Kaminsky quickly followed up with a right leg roundhouse kick aimed at the Japanese man's jaw, but impacted with a loud 'whack' just behind the ear. A strike which stunned everyone in the dojo who was quite familiar with Suposo's talents. The only person present who was not surprised by the blond American's strikes was Colonel Warmarster who had recently been on the receiving end of those same unorthodox tactics.
Stunned, the local Master dropped to his knees as the head-strike just about knocked him senseless and defenseless.
Kaminsky backed off a respectable distance for his opponent to recover, but kept a wary eye on the man who had 'called' him out three times in the previous weeks. He knew that eventually he was going to have to either let Anguri Suposo beat on him or come up with a way to discourage the man from escalating things before they got out of hand.
Having spent much of his youth as a victim of bullying, most of it during his high school years, the blond American decided he wasn't going to go through that again here in Japan. Also, Dean/Ron was well aware that some of Yamanouchi's alumni might be on base, it would get back to Sensei if their Champion allowed the disrespect he was being shown here continue.
Going against discretion as the better part of valor, he bowed to the highly regarded Japanese Karate Master, (Are you well Sir? I am sorry if I used too much power.), he mixed apology with slights and further insults, (Would you like a cold towel?)
Speechless, Suposo only raised his eyes in astonishment as Dean's explanations carried both innocence, (I am but a novice student and my style does not teach pulling our strikes.), and insults, (So let's take a break and when we return you can try to intimidate me again and we can see what happens.)
Finally, after keeping his rising temper under control, Suposo grunted, (What style to you study?), his intention to figure out counters to what little he experienced from this cagy gaijin.
(Shu Do Kan Ryu which originated from Tanken Toyama. My Dojo is in Sapporo and my Sensei is Master Initu Hukkuri.), Dean informed his adversary of his 'known' credentials.
Grunting, (Not all of your moves are traditional you know.), the local Master did his best to deflect his embarrassment at being handled so easily and decisively by this unknown American. And that it happened in front of people he had trained with for years.
Shrugging nonchalantly, (I know, but the students at my school have been given a greater base knowledge of other styles so that we can defend ourselves against other styles better.), Dean replied. Then with an amused gleam in his eyes, (Now are you ready to go again…I'll try to not be as hard if you wish to continue.), with just a touch of smugness in his voice.
Struggling mightily to keep his composure in the face of further insults from someone he considered an insignificant foreign nuisance, (Another moment please?), his control of his vanity and balance in dispute.
With a flash of realization of where he was and of how few 'friends' he had there, he decided to not push the issue further, (Of course Master.), Dean responded as courteously as he could.
A cleansing breath later, the lightly chastened, yet now slightly less arrogant Japanese Martial Arts Master turned to face Dean. Each bowed to the other, before they assumed their fighting stances and began again.
Cautiously circling Kaminsky, Suposo waited for an opening to strike the upstart American, and maybe pay the gaijin back for his insolence. Spying an opportunity, he switched his feet quickly between stances before he aimed a left-leg front snap kick at the knee of the Occidental's grounded lead leg. His intention, to injure this nonentity of a nuisance who seemed to insult the ingrained pride of a Martial Art born in his country, and his own inflated pride.
Sensing the mood of his opponent, Kaminsky prepared himself for such dishonorable tactics as he lifted his lead leg from the floor, minimalizing the intended damage inflicted on his knee as it was struck.
Not expecting such a defense to his low-blow strike, Suposo's lead foot placement to the mat was all he had smugly planned for. So there was no re-chambering of his leg for a follow-up strike or any prepared defense for retaliation from an opponent which would have been impaired from his less than honorable actions.
So it was to the Karate Master's complete and painful surprise, when the ball of the American's foot quickly struck him right above the navel. The shock of the strike doubling him over, both hands clutching his stomach as he sank to his knees on the mat.
Stunned again at the display of the unknown American, silence reigned in the audience, giving way to grumbling. Until, from the assembled, one of Suposo's friends shouted angrily, (That is unfair, Gaijin!)
Narrowing his eyes, Dean sought out the accuser, (He dishonorably tried to injure my knee, I paid him back for his actions…Is it your intention to take his place?), he challenged.
Before his next 'challenger' stepped forward, (Though my Sensei will not allow us to deliberately injure someone on purpose,), Dean said, (we are to at least minimalize the damage to those we show the error of their less than honorable ways.), he followed up with glint in his eye.
Fuming, a slightly younger challenger in a blue gi stepped on the mat, (Stop the fight with him and take me on!), he growled. Pointing to the still grimacing Suposo, (And I will pay you for his pain.) His black belt had a red stripe on it.
Gathering that things were escalating into hostile waters but not the particulars, Colonel Warmarster asked the blond American, "What's going on Kaminsky?"
Dean, keeping an eye on both of the locals on the mat with him, "Going after a fighter's knee in a spar is very taboo.", eyes narrowing while paying heed to the disgruntled group just off the mat. "Unless it's part of a street fight where there are no rules, this is met with swift retaliation." Warmarster nodded in understanding.
"And my retaliating with force is what's got their dander up. They know he had it coming, but coming from an outsider to their customs and what they consider their martial art, they may overlook his dirty shot at me just for that reason alone and try to get one back for their side."
As the Colonel took this in, Dean could see some of the locals backing away from what seemed to be a buildup to a violent altercation from those who were edging closer to his position on the mat. It could get ugly and bloody, real fast.
While Warmarster was taking this in, and wondering just what he was getting himself into, mainly that things here were a little rougher than what he was familiar with in the United States, a voice floated in from behind their soon-to-be adversaries, (I would have done the same thing if one of you had tried to injure me in this way.)
All turned around, some in shock of the source of this statement, the newcomer to the mat just grinned, (The American is within his rights to defend himself against anyone planning on doing such a dastardly deed.)
Outraged, that one of their own would take the gaijin's side in the matter of National Honor, the blue-gi'd martial artist glowered at the sweat-suited newcomer casually approaching the mat, (Stay out of this fool, or I will kick your ass after I remind this insignificant barbarian of his place here!)
His slow stride never changing, a smirk on his face, the newcomer stopped at the edge of the mat, (That sounds like a challenge to me.), his hands on his hips. (Now, do you want to be stomped by the Kimpatsu Ameko,), he pointed to Dean, (or me first…Chikusho?), a gleam in his eyes.
Red-faced, (I will gut you like a spoiled fish…), the cheap-shot artist's defender glared at the newest arrival to this soon-to-be fracas.
Unfazed by the trash talk, he spit into a hand and wiped it on his pants leg, sending the sentiment that he was quite agreeable with the idea of getting involved in a martial arts free-for-all, (Talk is cheap little girl, is that all you think you can do, or is all you wish you can do?)
Knowing this was going to get out of hand Dean frowned, he didn't like to have others help him fight problems of his own, any more, but he was grateful just the same, (Thanks for being here friend.), he nodded to his friend.
Keeping an eye on the loudmouth, the formerly spiky haired ninja's lips quirked up in a small smile, (Megana-kun would kick my tail if I let you have all the fun Kaminsky-san.), he said, quite knowingly. Then mock-stretching his arms and legs, (Besides, I haven't gotten much exercise lately and I really need to work out the kinks…Suzy and Wanda almost kicked my tail the last time we sparred.)
The American's snorted laugh was heard by all present, (Welcome to the fun my friend,), he bowed his head slightly. Then cocking an eyebrow, (Now do you think Master Hukkuri would be offended if we were to cause some injuries to those who wished us harm?)
Smirking, (I think he would be disappointed if we did not.), he replied as he sidled up besides the blond.
After both rotated their shoulders to loosen further kinks, (Now, shall we?)
Smiling, Dean and his friend ran towards the group which now was trying to scatter from their approach.
(Let's!)
XXX
At precisely six in the evening the young redheaded woman rapped on the doorframe to Sensei's quarters to announce her presence.
His, "Please come in Miss Possible.", softly came through the door as he rose from his meditation mat to greet her.
After removing her shoes, Kim entered. Upon noting Sensei wasn't alone, she bowed to Sensei and then to Antubi, "It is my honor to dine tonight with you Master Sensei and Antubi-san."
After they bowed in return, "Please be seated Miss Possible.", he said before extending a hand to his other guest, "If you haven't met, this is Antubi-san. He is a close friend of mine and also of Ron Stoppable-san's."
Perking up, "You know Ron?", and after regaining proscribed etiquette, "I uh, mean, Ron-kun?"
Nodding, "Yes Kim-san,", he smiled, "he is a very good friend of mine."
Anxiously, "Could you tell me when you saw him last Antubi-san?", Kim asked.
"It has been over a year, I believe,", he replied, "we had been talking about our futures after we had come out of a meditation session."
Timidly, "Is he well…?", then fearful, "Is he still mad at me?, finally, in a rush, "I..I mean, what is he doing with his life?"
Shaking his head, "No, the anger he still feels is directed towards himself for not being a better partner for you.", Antubi quietly said. "I believe he thinks that he failed you, that this is why he thought you did not want to have anything to do with him.", he explained, to her forming tears. "In fact, he left here some time ago to make something out of himself at a college, his intention to no longer be a burden to anyone."
Sniffling, "In time, do you think he will ever speak with me?", Kim replied, wiping a tear. "I miss him so much. It hurts all the time."
"Yes Kim-san, I think that in time this will be possible.", Antubi replied. His eyes cutting to Sensei and back to Kim, "But neither Sensei nor I know where our friend is at this time, and for us to suggest otherwise would be dishonorable.", his smile sad.
At her question, "Stoppable-san was not very forthcoming in relating his plans for the near future, so hazarding guesses would not be beneficial for any of us.", he shook his head.
Head down, "I…I understand." Then she looked up, "But if you see him after I leave, let him know I still love him.", her smile small and sad. "If nothing else, I really, really need him to know this…even if he refuses to talk to me."
Since Kim's and Wade's agreement to remain at Yamanouchi for the tasks of self-discovery and metaphysical explorations put to them, Sensei knew there was a significant amount to be accomplished with the auburn haired former heroine. Though she was making very good advances in the former, and was making gains in the latter, he knew there was more to accomplish, so he was always on guard to keep her from 'backsliding' in her woolgathering 'what-ifs' with Ron-sama.
With this in mind, "Please Miss Possible, do not concern yourself with what may or may not come to pass. There will be time enough for that in the future when you are more prepared for such likelihoods.", Sensei paused her. "Now please sit with Antubi and myself, I wish to help guide you to a place you have not been to before.", he said with a knowing gleam in his eye, "And this will take some work, on your part."
After she was seated beside him, Sensei continued, "If we are successful, we may complete the first level of training I feel you need to attain before moving on to the next level of consciousness.", to which Kim nodded in understanding. "So far your efforts have brought you very close a breakthrough of sorts, and if you achieve this next phase, a victory dinner will be held for you."
Pleased at hearing of her progress, Kim closed her eyes and began to center herself. With a small smile on her lips she slowed her breathing as she began to feel a calm she had grown quite accustomed to. Her body seemed to grow lighter as she felt the familiar presence of Sensei as he guided her to the next level.
Eyes closed, Kim sensed her being growing lighter as it seemed to drift ever higher through the levels Sensei guided her to, until after what felt to be a long time in this endeavor, she heard, "Kim-san, please open your mind further, there is someone I would like you to meet.", she heard. "He knows much about Yamanouchi, more than I, and he is quite interested in meeting you."
Concerned of the level of concentration she needed to accomplish this, "How do I do this Sensei?", Kim replied.
Feeling the mirth in his answer, "Let your mind follow me Kim-san, I will guide you to this level...it is what I have wished for you to learn while staying with us."
Kim smiled as she felt herself being pulled even further along until she felt a commanding presence in her midst, "Please allow me to introduce myself Kim Possible-san…I am known as Lord Toshimiru, but you may refer to me as Toshi."
Though Kim had seen the statue a number of times while at Yamanouchi, what she now saw along with the accompanying voice seemed to be at odds with perceptions she had of him. If nothing else, he sounded 'younger' than she thought his voice would be like as the mist gradually dissipated until she 'saw' him.
Now mentally stuttering, "Master…", as she made out the face of a much younger man than she was expecting. In fact, he appeared to be maybe a year or two older than she was.
With a small smirk, "Not what you were expecting?", came a soft chuckle from the very handsome young man.
Quite amazed at what she saw, "You are so…so young….."
"And I will age as we all will who are alive Kim-san.", he sighed in resignation. "My genetic heir has learned the ability to visit me at different times in my life, so what you see now is only one moment in time of my own progression to the end of my mortal days in Edo.", Toshi pointed out.
Waving a hand up and down, "In fact, I am as I appeared after only working for a short time on the sacred mountain.", he said. "And as such, I will get older, much older while I get wiser. But please know that my mortal body is quite dead and has turned to dust.", Toshi assured her. "Yet others such as yourself, have come to visit me here, as I move back and forth through my 'Age', if you will, but only a few have learned the ability to see me in various stages of my life before I passed on."
Still a little awestruck at what she was comprehending, "In fact, it was a certain young man who is very well known to you who taught this technique to several students and masters at the school."
Poleaxed, "Do you mean Ron…my Ron?", Kim blurted.
Nodding smugly, "Yes Miss Possible, your Ron.", her jaw dropped. "And it was Stoppable-san who instructed others to find me at different periods of my mortal existence."
Confused, "I don't understand…if I'm not a student of Yamanouchi, or possess any MMP that I know of, how am I able to communicate with you, Lord Toshimiru?", Kim asked the founder.
A gleam in his eyes, "A portion of my spirit imbued with the Mystical Monkey Power, which allows me to maintain a presence on this plane, also assists initiates of the 'Power', such as yourself, the ability to do so.", he said, to Kim's further confusion.
"Me?", Kim squeaked, "But how did I ever get some of the MMP?", as she wracked her brain for the answer.
As if it was the simplest thing for her to consider, "Did you not once wear an Amulet of the Monkey King?", Toshimiru asked, as the memory dawned to her.
Eyes widening as she recalled, "Yes!", and placed a hand where the mark had appeared on her neck, "It began to turn me into a monkey…", Kim blushed remembering the incident, "But we got it off before I completely became one."
Nodding, "Yes Kim-san, that your friends did," Toshi smirked, "but some of the residual MMP from the amulet resides within you. And it drew you closer, mystically, to other initiates such as Ron-san."
Kim frowned in thought, "I believe what you have said about me, Ron and the MMP, but I've felt closer to him way before then...", she looked up, "We once shared a dream together…", and flushed slightly, "and since then we've loved each other…", a tear in her eye, "I miss him so."
An eyebrow rose, "Was it a dream Kim-san, or was it a memory of two people from a previous life?", Toshi asked her, sidestepping the emotional portion of the discussion for now.
"I don't…I just don't know, Toshi.", Kim said. "All I can remember is that together we recalled a previously unknown adventure my relative, Mim, and, and Ron's relative, Jon seemed to have experienced…But how did we get it?"
"That I do not know Kim-san, but I know that you were very close to each other. Sensei has informed me of a possible link between you."
Nodding, "I know, deep down I seem to have felt that too.", Kim said. Then sadly, "But I seem to have blown that…and I had some hope that I could renew that with Ron…if he was willing to."
The manifestation of the ancient Japanese warrior chuckled, "He may if we could convince him to look for you again…that is if you are willing."
Eyes hopeful, "That is what I wish…more than anything"
Grunting, "Good.", Toshi approved. Then looking into her eyes, "Please understand it may take some time to accomplish.", he stated before pointing to a portion of the 'mountain' in their midst, "Since we both know Ron-san is stubborn and is as hardheaded as this stone that I am carving the school from, we must not be rash in this."
Giggling, "Ronnie could be so hardheaded at times, but I think in the end he would be well worth my efforts to turn him into a proper spouse.", Kim replied
During this exchange, Sensei quietly looked on. His hope that the Founder of Yamanouchi would take the red haired young woman under his wing, and help her devise a plan where she could reunite with her long-separated love, to marry…and to bring about the added result of making Barbara Stoppable, and Anne Possible, grandmothers.
Thinking for a moment, "I just can't believe my luck, to find you, the founder of Yamanouchi and looking so young!", Kim said in admiration of the 'young man' before her. "And that you also met Ron, I mean Ron-san…", she gushed.
"Kim-san,", Toshi interrupted, "on this plane we have talked many times,", he smirked, "and sometimes you were a principle part of our conversations."
Deflating, "Oh,", now more subdued, "I guess he told you how badly I treated him.", Kim seemed to sink in on herself. Eyes shining, "He hates me doesn't he?", her avatar began to diminish as her sorrow grew.
He smiled sadly, "He does not hate you Kim-san, but he feels you abandoned him for another.", and reminded her of her rash choice. "In the future though, I suggest speaking with people before you act."
Embarrassed, "You are right, I screwed up…but I'm glad Ronnie doesn't hate me…"
"He does not hate you Kim-san, but his spirit was heavily damaged. He had to travel a dark and lonely path by himself before he found a purpose in life."
Eyes hopeful, "Will I ever be able to speak with him again?"
At this Toshi looked off into the distance, "Yes someday he will speak with you…I do not know when that will occur, but it will happen. Of that I am sure.", he said to her avatar's sudden 'brightening'. Then gesturing to a path, 'Now please walk with me I could use some advice on how to create and setup some rooms and from what I have heard you could offer some very good advice.", he chuckled. "Women are better at this for some reason and I cannot find any on this plane to advise me on this matter."
Kim's cares seemed to fade into the background as she found herself discussing furnishings and lighting for his small one-person abodes, something she was familiar with since she'd been living in one for some time. To her chagrin, she eventually realized she was telling Toshimiru what her room looked like.
Then, "What about the bathhouses Master?"
Contemplating, then shaking his head, "We have need for only one, but it will be very functional…"
"So then the men and women at the school are going to bathe together?", an eyebrow rose.
Shaking his head, "We have no women here Kim-san…."
"But I am studying at Yamanouchi, and someday before my arrival, there will be women here.", Kim reminded him.
Blushing lightly, "Ah…I see your point Kim-san.", he said to his embarrassment, "Then, we shall have at least two bathhouses."
Looking around, "So, where is your wife? She should be here too.", she asked.
Sighing, "I have decided on living alone, so I will have no one.", Toshi said. Then wistfully, "I had a young woman once, but she decided she loved a more handsome man." Shrugging, "So, I spend most of my time meditating when I am not building or trying to protect innocent people from those who wish to do them harm."
Pained at bringing up such a memory, "Oh, I am sooo sorry…"
Stopping her, "Do not concern yourself with reminding me of that time, it is in the past and there is nothing I can do about it. But now years later I've realized my mistake, and Stoppable-san now believes he should walk the same path as I.", Toshi said to her growing distress. "I do not wish him to feel the loneliness that I felt in my old age and have stressed this to him each time we meet. He deserves to have friends and to be loved."
Kim lowered her 'voice', "I don't want Ron to be that way…to be lonely I mean. Even if it isn't with me that he receives love or gives his love to.", she lamented. Sighing, "I think he could end up being a great father to his children…I just hope that it's with me."
The 'young' man half smiled as he considered the avatar of the young woman brought to him by his school's current Sensei, "You are a very strong person Kim-san; he who shares the mystical power with me could do much worse than to have a mate such as you. It seems you are able to bring out the best in people. You have my blessing in finding the Master and making him your spouse."
Kim's mind was suddenly more at ease than it had been in quite some time, "So then, are you able to help me?"
"Yes, but as I have stated Stoppable-san is very hardheaded, so we must work as a group to bring him back to you and I am afraid that it will not happen soon.", he said to her distress.
Puzzled, "But…"
"Let me explain Kim-san.", he cautioned her. "For years he followed you around the world as your assistant, had he not?" She nodded. "He now has come into his own and enjoys the challenge of doing so much more, and if you were to suddenly reappear into his life without him fully realizing his true potential, he may not easily accept reverting back to that status quo, or he may rebel against working without you. In either case there would be friction between you, which could eventually sever your relationship, permanently."
Kim's eyes widened before she looked down in thought, "In trying to find Ron again, I never thought about that.", she said before looking up, "But is he that much better than before?" His nod and knowing look widened her eyes even more this time.
"I know he took out those aliens who tried to make a trophy out of me, but I really never knew how much potential 'Potential Boy' really had.", she said as she searched her heart. "And if he's so much more than he was then, I wouldn't ask him to be anything else but my partner…in the world saving sitch, and in my life.", she said as she inhaled deeply.
Letting the breath out slowly, "He means so much more to me than I ever realized. I knew down in my heart what he was to me, but it took my screw-up to finally see what I took for granted…for so many years." Her eyes shining with unshed tears, "I need that blond goof in my life as much as I've ever needed anything."
Nodding, "I know of this Kim-san. Stoppable-san and I have discussed how you and he were so much together, and some of what a future could have been between you, should you meet up with each other someday in the future…"
"He did?", Kim cut him off. Eyes hopeful, "Lord Toshimiru, what do you need me to do to get Ron to at least look at me again?"
Smiling, the ancient spirit of the warrior leaned in to the young woman, "First of all,", extending a finger, "since Stoppable-san is hard headed we must proceed slowly after we make our plan…This we must agree upon." Peering in as her eyes widened, "If you want him again you must have patience. If we go too fast with all that has happened we may very well fail in this endeavor and I believe that mankind would ill afford this to happen."
Nodding, "I…I agree,", she stammered, "though I hope that it happens before I am too old to have children. I so want to have Ron's children if that is possible."
Grunting in amusement, "That would be my desire as well Kim-san. Now I will explain to the current Sensei," looking in his direction in the near-distance, "that we must make a plan to inspire our mutual friend that only Kim-san's presence will allow him to be happy. Let us go to this period's Sensei and explain what we think will work to resolve this situation that we find ourselves in.", as Toshimiru 'walked' to him.
Falling in step, "Sounds like a plan to me…", hope intermingled in Kim's giggles.
As they approached Sensei, Toshimiru pointed to a level grassy area, "Please let us sit and take tea. We have plans to make to restore the Wa of Yamanouchi."
Quirking an eyebrow, "What do you have planned, Founder?", Sensei inquired as he sat down, while motioning Kim to sit next to him.
Huffing as he settled, "I propose that this should be the next move when we set eyes on the young master…"
XXX
His hand a blur, the blue gi'd, trash talking Japanese Black Belt was hit seven times by Dean before he could even register the multiple strikes. His cheek was so slowly turning red, it was reminiscent of watching old 'slo mo' game replays of bygone NFL games from the '60's.
Meanwhile, Colonel Warmarster had his hands full when one rushed him head-on as another attacked from the side. Finally he had enough and just to head butted each opponent.
The sweat suited young Japanese man who seemed to know Dean Kaminsky took on three at once, and seemingly was half-bored with the whole exercise.
Roughly two minutes later, both the blond American and the sweat suited Japanese man had taken care of their 'spar partners', and helped keep the Air Force Colonel from being overwhelmed before the martial arts brawl was all over. Though the locals limped and staggered off to the edge of the mat to lick their wounds, the trio that remained on the mat, for the most part, seemed to have only suffered bruises and scrapes.
While rubbing bruised knuckles, "You know we are going to have to answer to the head guys about this little tiff.", the Colonel said to his partners. Then offering his hand to the man who had helped them, "My name's Conrad Warmarster, glad to meet you."
The Japanese man smiled as he took the older man's hand, "I wouldn't worry about the trouble too much, Colonel. I am Lieutenant Natora Kasumi of the Japanese Security Forces. I will notify my superiors of this little fracas and if any of our assailants take issue with the outcome they will be receiving a call from Headquarters."
Surprised, "You know my rank?"
"Yes Sir my group is assigned to make sure that your stay here is nice and that you will wish to come back to my country in the future."
Dean/Ron kept a straight face as Natora/Hiro pointed to the blond, "Kaminsky-san goes to the same University that my wife attended and we went to the same Karate school in Sapporo."
Nodding in acceptance, "Ahhhh I see.", Warmarster said. Then looking to a clock, "Well, what say we hit the showers, Lieutenant? Mister Kaminsky and I have a mission briefing to get to, shortly."
Looking around to the fifteen or so men they just 'sparred', "I guess if they want to we can finish it later.", Dean said as all turned to him as one, and slowly backed away from the mat.
XXX
Frustration in her 'voice', "Sir I had hoped that we would get this done a little more quickly, but", sighing, "I suppose you are right.", Kim said, then looking resolutely to the ancient Mystic, "But no matter what happens on Ron's end, I agree and I promise to remain faithful to him."
Sensei nodded, "The Yamanouchi of my time will 'encourage' Stoppable-san to look towards Kim-san as the only one who has the ability to comfort him as long as you, Founder, agree to give him some sleepless nights."
Smirking, "I think I can do better than that.", Toshimiru said. "Since Stoppable-san accidently sent nightmares to Kim-san, I believe I should return the favor as a lesson for his previous lack of control in such matters."
Nodding at the subtle deviousness planned for their Chosen One, he put his right hand forward. Toshimiru laid his on top and after a nod, Kim covered them with her hand.
"For Ron."
X
"Miss Possible…", seemed to come from so far away.
Finally her eyes flittered, "Did I dream that?", Kim asked as she became accustomed to the light of the room.
Shaking his head in light amusement, "No you have indeed met the spirit of Lord Toshimiru, Kim-san.", Sensei said. "Now, do you approve of the plan?"
Sighing "I suppose.", Kim frowned. "I just hope it works sooner than later."
"It will work in its own time Kim-san, we must be patient.", he said sagely. Then gesturing to the recently delivered food, "Now let's enjoy our meal, we did much work tonight…Hopefully for good, and I for one am quite hungry."
Kim giggled after she rose, "It will be my honor to serve you Master.", and then bowed before doing so.
XXXX
Kim seems to be doing well in the mystical realm, after meeting with the founder of Yamanouchi. As she learns more of what Ron immersed himself in while there previously, she strengthens herself against further 'broadcasts' Ron may inadvertently send her way in the future. Hitting it off well, Kim seems to have hatched a plot Sensei is more than willing to participate in regarding Ron, but I wonder how Toshi will broach this to his 'descendent' when next they meet?
A recent challenge being met, Ron, the 'Lieutenant' and the Colonel clean house as the locals take umbrage to the blond's prowess in their backyard. Don't think those guys will try this again, especially when Yamanouchi will make sure it won't…
Until next time, hope the Holidays were bright for all of you.