Storm Chaser
Chapter 38
Hello all, sorry for the delay between postings of this tale, but real life intrudes and keeps ya on the ropes, time wise…
Last time, Kim was still recovering from her near-miss with Ron at that pub in England. She's a trooper, and her friends do their best to help her out…current and 'new' friends alike. Meanwhile, Betty and Wade are pulling their hair out trying to determine what they can from Ron's brief foray, yet tactically, they are learning that this Ron ain't the Ron they're used to…and that there's some 'holes' in their data retention of others, just not what or for whom those 'holes' exist. And Wade learns that he's going to take a road trip, and that there are many others on the horizon, too.
Ron checks in with Yamanouchi and finds that Rufus is quite good at extortion when it comes to threatening Ron to get in touch with Kim. Between plans made by Sensei, Rufus, Yori and Toshimiru and Ron's legendary hardheadedness…the blond's gonna be one ticked off Chosen One if those four pull this off.
Before we start, we'd like to thank those who've chimed in up to now: BigRiver590a, stay true Naomi, HicHicHiccup, chinaluv, Mahler Avatar, hadago77, simplyshelbs16, Randamwriter, Thatoneguy360, Legendary Dragon94, DavidC20OfficialWriter and RedHood001, thank you, one and all!
Sapporo, Japan:
A sweating, and, with each step she took, increasingly peeved Ukuma Sekari carried the last load up the stairs to her and Nanotri Saskua's apartment. To the door, which was ajar, she announced louder than necessary to be heard, (We are done now boyfriend. I turned my keys over to my landlord. My apartment is clean and empty, with no attachments to me in my wake.), she huffed. (This means that you are now stuck with me…), a dramatic pause, (It had better be worth it.)
Well-versed of the implications she directly spelled out to him, (Very good Ukuma-kun. Here let me take this from you.), Nanotri opened the door fully and did his best to get in her good graces. Taking her box, (Oh,), the thought came to him suddenly, (and Kaminsky-san sent me an email saying that he would be back in town this morning. Once we finish settling you in we should call him and see if he is willing to go out to dinner.), he said to a blossoming, fond smile.
(Hai boyfriend-kun, I wish to learn how his internship progressed this summer and if he plans to do the same thing again next year.), Ukuma said as innocently as she could.
Eyes suddenly cutting to his girlfriend, (Are you still trying to control him?), Nanotri huffed in annoyance.
Tartly, (He could use a girlfriend to keep him on the straight and narrow.), she shot back. Then using the moment to bust her boyfriend's chops, (For example,), fixing him with a raised eyebrow, (you could have helped me move my stuff…)
Incredulous, (I thought you wanted to be a liberated female?), Nanotri tossed back to her.
Her eyes lidded fiercely, (Some help would have been useful you know.), the coed smirked, knowing she had won this tit-for-tat.
Realizing to say anything to the contrary would get him in hot water with his girlfriend, the male intelligently decided to agree with her, (Maybe so my sweet, but the American usually follows his own mind as you well know.), Nanotri conceded this well worn out issue to her, yet scored some points at the cost of another male's manhood.
Her triumphant smirk growing, (And that is where he goes wrong.), Ukuma sniffed in gender-superiority. (He needs a girlfriend to keep him out of trouble.), she proclaimed.
Fully aware he was about to tread on thin ice, (He was able to avoid your entrapments easy enough.), Saskua lightly pointed out.
A huff that promised assured retribution, (Maybe he wasn't right for me.) Leaning in, she fixed him with a glare before pulling away, delighted by his flinch. (Anyway his loss, your gain.), she smirked before she kissed him lightly on the nose.
Relieved he was to avoid the wrath of a disgruntled girlfriend, (Thank you, my love…And I agree.), he blurted out at her sharp glare. (Maybe…maybe I should buy him a bottle of Sake to ease the pain of losing you.), he fumbled to distract her from delivering said retribution to him where she stood.
Smothering a grin so he would stew some more as she pretended to contemplate his suggestion, and attempted distraction, her eyes suddenly took on a more haunted look as she really considered Nanotri's words. (Whoever hurt him…should be happy with herself.), Ukuma frowned, her eyes now pained, (She broke him so bad he may never be fixed.), her breath shuddered lightly.
Taking a moment before she looked to Nanotri, (I wasn't the only one throwing herself at Kaminsky-san.), she reflected. After a few moments to compose herself, (If he were such a man, he could have easily had a harem…But in the time I got to know him, I found he could be nothing more…to any woman, than he was to me.), she said in sad affection. Shaking her head slightly, (Though I've moved on from him…I do hope he's happy with his life...Such as it is.), exhaling a sad breath as Ukuma ended a perspective of Dean Kaminsky, one that many women could see, of her take on his lack of female companionship in the time she's known him.
The Japanese male frowned, (What makes you think it was a girl who made him…so indifferent to other girls?), and showing how vast the chasm between the male and females of the species were in such matters.
Fixing him with a look that seemed to be a historical constant between the genders, (A woman knows these things it's in our DNA.), she smirked to him. (Don't you understand that?), tapping a finger lightly on his nose, with a non-patronizing giggle.
The Japanese male shrugged, (I had guessed as much…now I know.), as he surrendered to a truism that transcended time.
X
Warmly wrapping her arms around the blond American she missed so much, (Kaminsky-san, you look well.), the Japanese female said into his chest. Pulling back to look into his eyes, (Did you enjoy your internship over the summer?)
Returning the hug, he then backed off two steps to lowly bow to the girl, (Hai Ukuma-kun,), Dean replied. (I found it to be very educational. In fact, I may have learned very much about what may be my possible future profession.)
Dean then turned to the young man, (Nanotri-san! It is good to see you again.), to his former, one-sided crush's boyfriend. Then glancing over him in mock concern, (And from what I can see you have no broken bones so evidently…), he smirked to her, then her boyfriend, (you and your girlfriend didn't go bike riding or anything dangerous since I've last seen you.)
Holding in an amused snort, Ukuma's boyfriend bowed in return, (If I may say so, it seems that you have had a more interesting summer than we have Kaminsky-san.), he smirked, finally letting out that snort. (I for one am looking forward to hearing what you did.)
X
A sushi bar in in Sapporo Japan:
Looking to them, (May we speak in English for a while guys? My Japanese is a little rusty and I don't want to sound like a dork. It will take a few days to get back into the groove.), Dean asked his friends.
The Japanese female nodded. She had never spoken English in front of the meteorology student, though she was quite fluent in it, as was her boyfriend, "Dean-san I too could use the practice in your native language…", she glanced to her boyfriend who was caught in the glare that was her raised eyebrow, "so we agree."
Slow on the uptake, (Huh?), Nantori replied.
Elbowing her boyfriend in the ribs, "His English needs some work Dean-san,", her glare freezing him in place, "so I propose that we spend some of our time together speaking English."
Smiling gratefully, "Thanks.", Dean replied. Shaking his head, "At the start of the summer, my English was bad, having only spoken Japanese for years…and it showed.", he laughed, and they warmly joined in. "But what helped me get back into the swing of it was having to spend time as an interpreter between the American contingent who didn't know Japanese and their Japanese counterparts who didn't know English."
X
Closing in on their apartment building, he pauses, "Thanks again for speaking English tonight guys. Once I get back in the groove we can go back to just speaking in Japanese.", Dean said gratefully to the couple.
Nanotri laughed lightly, "We were out of practice too, so maybe we should speak English when we get together every once in a while."
Dean snorted, remembering the first time they met the young man, "Yeah, I guess 'Look out! Coming through!' is better said in English than in Japanese."
XXX
London GJ Facility:
"Helen, is Miss Possible here?", an authoritative female voice interrupted the quiet of the cubicled room of page-turners and discreet lecturers.
Shaken from her reading, "Doctor Director!…Wade!", Kim softly cried as they both stood at the opening to her cubicle where she was studying two thick volumes.
Glancing to the Section Chief, Elizabeth Director nodded, "I see that we've found her." Then peering at the red head, "So Helen, has Miss Possible achieved her day's task?"
Nodding, "Yes Ma'am, she has and I was going to have her go to lunch and then PT."
A curt nod, "Very well. May we join her?"
Beaming, "Yes Ma'am, you most certainly may.", Helen replied. Smiling to the red head, "In fact, I am done with her for the weekend.", she said to her boss' raised eyebrow, "She understands the material better than I did at this stage of the course."
Smiling warmly, "Miss Possible is one of our better prospects, Helen.", Betty related to the Section Chief. Looking to him, "Agent Load here, and I are both hungry and also feel the need for a sparring match if Miss Possible is up to it."
Turning to, "Kim?", Helen asked.
Bookmarking her place, "Sounds like it will be educational…and fun too, Ma'am.", the former heroine smiled to them. Then with a smirk, "I have to warn you though, I have been practicing.", her eyes glinting mischievously.
Lightly smirking in reply, "Are you as good at fighting as you were in high school, Kimberly?", Betty taunted her.
Mentally cracking her 'knuckles', "I suppose you'll have to judge that for yourself Ma'am.", Kim innocently replied.
Rolling his eyes, Wade felt he just had to warn his superior, "Doctor Director…just so you know…we…ah, took part in…a little martial arts training while at Yamanouchi..."
Well aware of the implications, "Good.", Betty's curt reply was followed by what he considered an evil grin, "Then that should allow me to also gauge your abilities, too. Right Agent Load?"
With the sigh of a condemned man, "Yes Ma'am.", he shook his head. "Somehow I knew this was going to happen…"
Smirking, "Then you should be prepared, Agent Load.", Betty patted him on the back. Then to, "Miss Possible I expect you to use all the tricks you can think of.", she advised her protégé, quite anxious to see what both had learned while in Japan.
Nodding eagerly, "I understand Doctor Director, but I suggest we spar before lunch so that we don't hurl all over each other.", Kim suggested, figuring it was better to do this on an empty stomach if they were going to smack each other silly sparring. And she knew that she and the Director of Global Justice weren't going to hold back once the fists and feet started flying.
X
Standing in her gym clothes on the edge of a large circle, Kim bowed to the Director of Global Justice, who likewise followed suit from her spot on the other end of the mat. Watching from the sidelines, Wade caught his breath after having sparred each woman before the 'main event'. As expected, he lost, but he'd done fairly well considering the only 'real training' he'd received before today had taken place last summer.
Coming out of her bow, "Show me what you have Miss Possible.", Doctor Director taunted with a light smirk, "Show me why Shego had such a difficult time trying to beat up a teenager."
With non-participants acting as 'referee', Wade took up his spot between them and raised a hand to start. On his toes to step in (as best he could-a minnow amongst sharks) to try to keep things from getting out of hand between the two veteran martial artists, should that happen.
Looking to each, "Fighting stance." Dropping his hand, "And…begin."
Switching from their stances, they circled each other briefly before the young red head closed the distance and started with a left leg round house kick followed by a spin sidekick-back fist combination the older woman avoided by sliding to the side.
As Kim passed by, Betty grabbed the red head by the shoulder, tried to kick out an ankle and grab her in a stranglehold while she recovered from being tripped. Though the GJ Director succeeded in getting the former teen heroine to the floor, the younger martial artist used a tactic she learned at the ninja school, and tucking her head under her boss' arm, Kim trapped the older woman's hand and pulled her to the floor.
Though he'd seen the move himself at Yamanouchi (his classes weren't as 'advanced' as Kim's were), Wade was surprised to see it in use here. "Nice move Kim.", he called out to her.
"A simple Aikido move that I learned from Antubi in Japan, I sooo need to learn the advanced moves and the counters.", a heavily sweating red head explained as she torqued Betty's arm, forcing the older woman's face to the mat.
Grunting in surprise, more than pain, "This,", Betty grunted again, "wasn't in your file Miss Possible…"
Smirking, "Yeah, new moves courtesy of Yamanouchi, I hope you like them.", the younger read head said as she locked the arm down.
A raised finger to Kim, "Point to Kim Possible Ma'am.", Wade called as Betty also tapped out. "Stop and reset your stances."
Both sweating women (Ok…ladies perspire, women sweat…Right? AN) returned to their starting places.
Betty Director taunted, "Let's see what you really have Kimberly.", as she came out of her bow.
Bowing in return, "One hundred percent?", as Kim came up. At the nod. "Yes Ma'm! I aim to accommodate you.", with a smile that lit up the room.
An amused snort from Wade, he had seen some of her workouts in Japan, "Fighting stance.", and shook his head as he started the next round.
Back in their stances, Betty's a right foot forward-back stance, Kim's a near walking stance with her left foot back enough to put her in an open stance to Betty (their abdomens facing the same direction), before Wade chopped a hand, "Go."
Before the word fades, Dr. Director rushes across the mat to try and surprise her opponent by grabbing the younger red head and taking her to the floor to grapple where the older red head's twenty pounds and additional strength would benefit her more than the lighter red head.
But…the former teen heroine had other ideas, as she spun away to let the larger dark-haired woman flash by at the last second.
Her ploy unsuccessful, Betty quickly spun around only to have both legs swept away by Kim's spinning left leg. And the leader of GJ found herself flopping on her back as Kim rolled away to pop up on her feet.
XXX
Sapporo, Japan:
"Gaaaaaaahhhhhh!", erupted from bed-tossed blond, faux Kaminsky, moaning as he rose from the low bed. Rubbing his face in frustration, "No sleep for the wicked tonight.", noting the early hour.
'What the hell is bothering me?', and glanced over to a snoring mole rat. A tired breath, 'Oh yeah…Kim…Again.' Taking a few seconds to recoup, I'd better go and center myself,' he sighed, 'or I'll never make it through class today.' Snorting sardonically, 'I should never have gone there in the first place.'
Sighing, the former buffoon to a genuine hero pulled on his robe and trekked to another room where he sat on a mat, lotus position, and tried to clear his mind.
After what he supposed was ten minutes later, no way to truly determine this where he went, Ron found himself walking up a very familiar path. Coming into view was someone he recognized immediately.
"Stoppable-san, welcome again to my home", a now elderly Toshimiru greeted him with a moderate bow.
Bowing lower in respect, "It is good to return Master, have you been well?", Ron greeted his mystical mentor.
Roaring in laughter, "As well as an old dead man can be my friend. Thank you for asking about my welfare. And what of yourself?", the ancient warrior replied.
"Life is, as life I", the blond American smirked to his mystic ancestor.
Smiling slightly, Lord Toshimiru knew he had to play this very carefully if he was going to keep his promise to the young red head he was sure was the 'true' one for the young man in his midst, "Yes it is. We sometimes want to be above the seemingly trivial trials that our mortal bodies endure, but the sad fact is that we must deal with all as they come to us."
The tranquil beauty of the mountain setting calming himself, "I have told you before about my friend Kim Possible?", Ron asked Toshimiru.
Nodding, "Yes Stoppable-san, you are…", narrowing his eyes to Ron, "or were in love with her until she broke your heart, and in turn, led you to seek help and enlightenment with the current head of the school.", Toshimiru replied. "I feel that something from that weighs on your heart and has left you troubled." His smile hidden because of the knowledge that the young man still thought of his 'client' in that way. It seemed, after after all the times they had spoken of many other things, Ron's coming back to this topic of his life gave him hope that they could reunite on more pleasant terms.
Shrugging, "I used an excuse to see how my old friend was doing…and found…the pain…is still there.", Ron sighed. A hand rubbing his face, "I don't think I'll ever be able to let it go…" Then pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts. "You see I have come to realize that she still has a hold on my heart…" Now a furrowed brow as he exhaled loudly, shaking his head, seemingly to clear it, "But no matter…maybe, someday, one of Sensei's missions will make me pay the price I agreed to when I took on this life.", Ron said with some finality.
Masking his alarm at this fatalistic pronouncement from his young friend, "Ah I think I understand, for I remember the unreturned love of youth…it is something which we could study in depth if we had the time but alas we do not have an eternity at the moment.", Toshimiru teased. Then gesturing ahead of them, "Please let us walk up the path to Yamanouchi and take in refreshments, maybe a broken heart is something that I may aid you with.", the legendary master smiled.
Though in his trance, Ron's body laughed, "While Rufus would be annoyed at missing a meal, nevertheless I thank you Master for the invitation." Each smiled at the thought of a miffed naked mole rat. "It would be my honor to speak of such mundane things."
Gesturing ahead, "Please come then, I would enjoy conversing with you on many subjects my friend…although I would not classify love between two as something mundane even if this is only to be a short talk.", his eyes taking on a gleam.
The two men continued on the path before them until they came to the now famous walls of the secret school. Noticing young men exercising Ron said, "There are more students here than last time. Are more people becoming your students?"
A short nod, "Yes, but many decide not to further their studies after they learn the basics of Tae Ching Pak War…it is very difficult for those without the power.", the aged mystic lamented. Sighing, "Sometimes I wonder if I am doing the right thing."
Looking pensive, "Though few are gifted in the ways of the monkey spirit, studying the simian style has its advantages in calming the soul.", Ron observed.
A knowing look and nod, "That is one thing I try to instill in all of our students my friend." Now looking to Ron, "Does that continue in your time?"
"It does Master. I can reveal that in the future many people will be protected by the graduates of Yamanouchi.", Ron informed the school's founder. "Your teachings will make a great difference to many, though you may not be alive to see that happen.", he grasped his mentor's shoulder. "You are honored in your homeland. And as a result, the Wa of Japan is strong."
A smile of relief, "That is good to know my friend. It warms my old feeble bones."
Ron chuckled, "Feeble?"
"Life is transitory my friend…for all of us.", his voice a bit sorrowful. "I learned that too late." Then Toshimiru pointed to a small dwelling, "That is where I rest my head now."
After they entered and removed their footwear, Ron asked, "And you never found a woman companion to replace your beloved?"
Sighing, "No…I am too old now my friend and I am much closer to the end of my travels than I am from the beginning. I only wish at the end there would be one who mourns my death…", he trails off.
"That is some time away yet Master.", The blond American told his mystic predecessor, "You have much good to accomplish in the world before you say goodbye to the physical plain.", Ron assured his Master, to bolster his spirit.
XXX
GJ Headquarters, London:
A chorus of groans as they sat, the three placed their trays as they prepared to have lunch. The martial arts workout they just ended had left scrapes, bruises sore muscles, joints…and a heck of an appetite with all of them.
Betty's smile, tempered by the pain of her recent shiner on her 'good eye', picked up a chip from her fish and chip dinner. (OK us folks in the good ole US of A know the English 'chips' as French Fries. To us chips are something that comes in a bag…AN)
A sheepish look, "Sorry about the black eye Dr. Director.", as Kim, again, attempted to apologize for the flurry of fists that got out of hand, some forty-five minutes earlier.
Smirking, her eye twinging, at the red head, "Don't think this is the first time I've been dinged up Kimberly." Turning to their more subdued, and still groaning, lunch companion, "And how are you feeling Doctor Load?", as Betty checked on the young man who had been Kim's backup during her high school years.
Stifling a moan, "I'll heal in time Ma'am.", Wade stretched out a kink in his shoulder. Shaking out of his stretch, "I have to admit you did warn me and being forewarned is forearmed." Looking to Betty, "I think I'll opt for the higher level classes at Yamanouchi next summer." Then nodding to Kim, "Although a battle suit similar to Kim's old one might be a quick fix.", and flinched when his neck tweaked him.
Grinning, "A word of advice Wade.", Betty said warmly, "Always try to spar someone better than you are even if you get stomped once in a while. That will help you to get better…And it is more reliable than just depending on technology.", she advised the martial arts newbie in their midst. Pivoting, her neck hitching on her, to her intern, "But it was Kimberly who surprised me today. I suppose she'll be placed in the advanced self-defense classes next summer to see what she can handle."
Shrugging, then grimacing when her shoulder pinched, "I guess I'd better spend more of my extra time in the dojo this term if you're going to do that Ma'am.", Kim replied to Dr. Director as she lightly rubbed her shoulder, slowly rolling it to get the kinks out of it.
Nodding and then cringing when her neck flared, "Then I think we'll try you out with the heavies…and just to give you a heads up, a couple of them are better than I am.", Doctor Director warned.
Kim glanced down at her meal and then back to Dr. Director, "As long as it doesn't interfere with my trip to Japan in the summer, I'd love to play with the big boys…as long as they promise not to break me into little pieces that Ronnie would have trouble putting together again."
Betty chuckled, "Something tells me you will be able to hold your own Kimberly.", and smirked when Kim's nod was tweaked by another sore body part complaining. Then, "On another point, how have your studies been progressing this term?"
Thinking for a moment, "Right now I am in the top five percent of my class. Considering the institution, I'm attending, and after coming back from what went on in the beginning of my stay here, I think I'm doing pretty good Ma'am.", the younger red head replied as she took a 'chip' and dipped it in ketchup (damned Americans) before she inserted it into her mouth.
XXX
Drakken's Island:
His hands outstretched in joyous wonder, "Ahhhhhh Shego, this is the best time of year down in the Gulf.", as the blue former villain slowly spun in place while his wife played with their daughter.
Looking fondly to Sam as she tickled her, "And why's that, Drewbie?", Shego said over their scamp's squeals of delight.
Glad for his audience's 'interest', "The real hot weather is over for the year and the storms are dying down…", he suddenly paused. "You know that's an idea!", Drakken suddenly burst out, "I could invent a machine to calm fierce storms down…A sort of anti-weather machine.", his excitement now in overdrive.
Which lead to Shego's slow, yet deliberate head-swivel to her husband, "Drew,", her voice calm, yet with a menacing edge, so as to not startle Sam, "you know better than to mess with the weather.", she retorted. "Remember what happened the last time?", elegant eyebrow rising above a glaring eye.
Deflating slowly like a Macy's balloon at parade's end, "But Shego...", the former villain whined while the mint hued mother continued to tickle their daughter, "I'm just trying to make some serious cash…errr I mean, to make life better for humanity.", he stumbled, then tried to rally his point.
Her laugh warm, but somehow still snarky, "You know there are just some things you shouldn't try Drewbie." Then sighing, "It'd be our luck that the island next door would be where the sidekick lives, and with your luck that gizmo would dump all the bad stuff on him and piss him off to no end." Her demeanor now sober, "I'm not sure I wanna chance it with Sam living with us."
Starting a rant, "Shegooooo, I told you about hurtful words…", which ended with the look she shot his way. "Ahem…anyway we do need a positive cash flow.", he sheepishly redirected his 'point'.
Snorting before returning to playing with Sam, "I know. But since this island is not just where we make our living, but it's also our home, Drewbie." Fixing him with a look when he opened his mouth to rebut, "And while we need to make money off your brains, we'd better not forget that we have this pretty little girl with us,", stopping to tickle said pretty girl, "who for some reason loves us very much." Squeals of joy ringing out from the little girl.
Looking fondly to mother and daughter, "I know Shego, I know.", Drakken nodded, "But I do have some ideas though."
Cocking an eyebrow, "Well blue boy…what are they?"
Temporarily paused, from memories of past snark…and better moments from his wife, "Ah yes…See remember when I told you that I hadn't completely translated those alien computer files. I'll bet I could find a benefactor who would love to see what those creatures had up their sleeves."
Chuckling, "Good, that'll give you something to get started on…" Fixing him with a look, "Tomorrow." Finality sounding in her voice.
Sheepishly pulling on his collar, "Yes my wife.", he blurted out. "Although the entire process should take me a few months…", he trailed off. Finger tapping his chin, "I wonder if Betty would look for someone to cough up some money for that information."
Having gone back to playing with Sam, "I'll bet there are a few scientific foundations out there that would just love to learn of whatever new information buried in those files.", the former villainess smiled wickedly.
Eagerly nodding, "I agree, and I'll send a message to Betty and see how much of that equipment she can give us access to."
"Good.", Shego huffed. Then looking to him, "Now rub some of that sun block on me while I take care of Sam.", she ordered.
XXX
On a private jet over the Pacific Ocean:
Sitting comfortably in his well-appointed seat, Sheldon Director focused on the first-rate movie playing, trying to keep his attention from his itchy eye-patch.
Giving up and rubbing the patch, "I'd be better off getting a fake eye and be rid of this patch…I'll begin looking for one after this trip…maybe one that has 'enhancements' that will give me an edge in dealing with things like whatever happened to my group in Tokyo.", he mentally rambled.
His musings were interrupted by a very young, and attractive, brunette walking up to his seat, "Mister Director, may I get you something to eat or drink?"
Nodding with a smile, "Yes, thank you Miss Tammi, if you would be so kind."
"What would you care for, we are fully stocked.", she posed.
Smirking warmly, "Just surprise me, I have a little thinking to do."
"Yes sir, one major surprise on the way.", Tammi replied. Turning to the galley, "It will be a few minutes, but I'll bring your usual drink out first."
A genuine smile, "Thank you very much.", the former villain replied showing his usually hidden manners as he glanced up at his entertainment, now wondering if trying to take over the world was worth the trouble.
X
Twenty minutes later:
Sheldon Director sat with his tray slid across his lap as 'Miss Tammi' poured him another glass of his favorite red. She asked, "Mr. Director, we have included several very good desserts and a wonderful port to finish off your dinner, if that is acceptable. Do you wish for me to bring out the tray before you are too full to decide?"
"Thank you dear…uh how much longer until we reach Tokyo?"
'Tammi' glanced at her watch and then the clock in the cabin (which displayed the current time by where they were in the world), "About five hours and forty-five minutes Mr. Director, if I might suggest it would be a good time to take a nap so that you will be fresh when we arrive."
"I think I will take your suggestion.", Sheldon agreed. In approval, "You seem to be much more capable that some of my former employees. By any chance, are you looking for work?", he smiled to 'Tammi'. "My corporation makes a point of hiring people who demonstrate the abilities you have shown me on this trip.", Sheldon pointed out, not revealing that he was a former techno villain.
Smiling warmly, "Not at this time sir,", 'Tammi' shook her head, "but thank you for the offer. I enjoy the travel and off days I have with the company I'm with too much to work for anyone else right now.", content in the knowledge that Betty Director would laugh her head off about this job offer when she's debriefed back in the States.
Sheldon had no idea that if word ever got out that he pressured the young (who was one of GJ's best) woman into going to work for him, his sister would hound him to the ends of the Earth. So it was a good thing he didn't get very far with the young woman while he was trying to rebuild his empire in Asia after the losses it had taken the previous year and a half. So in short, Sheldon had no idea that 'Tammi' was a GJ deep cover agent. If he did he would have changed services and start an investigation into his past comments with the service currently providing his business flights.
XXX
Bowing deeply, "Master it is time I returned to my body, I have some classes to take which will require my time soon.", the blond American sent to the long dead warrior hero.
"Then you should go my friend, but remember we look forward to seeing you here again soon.", the founder of the Yamanouchi school smiled as he bowed, pleased that he had, at least, planted a kernel of yearning into the young man's soul.
The monkey master's eyes flickered a few times, 'I feel better already, and it's not even light yet. I should be able to get a few hours before I have to get up for the day. I have Karate class and I need to do some research for that project Professor Akumbu wants me to work on.'
X
Three hours later:
"Rufus I'm going out for a run. When I get back I'm making breakfast.", Ron/Dean announced as he pulled on a light sweatshirt and sweatpants.
"Cheese?", came the oft heard plaintive cry from the overly pampered naked mole rat.
"Of course.", the blond assured his friend. "Then I have to head to the library for a few hours and then Karate class."
Making a face, "Karate…phoooie.", Rufus spat.
"Now, now Rufus, it has its purposes.", Dean/Ron countered.
Paws crossed, standing on his back legs, "As if.", he scoffed.
Glaring, "Listen rat, I practice both styles so I have a little better idea…", Ron stopped before he got carried away with this recurring 'debate' with Rufus. "The best thing about this is that if I'm doing good at this, they'll believe that the Karate's the reason why.", the college student retorted to his rodent buddy, "But at the moment, I DO have to get some aerobic work in or the younger students at Yamanouchi are gonna kick my butt the next time I go there for training."
The former sidekick pulled up the hood on his sweatshirt and opened the door, "Keep an eye on the place Rufus, I'll only be a couple of hours.", his face neutral. Then smirking, "Of course you could come with me…it's nice and brisk out there."
"Hnk, no way loser.", Rufus sniped back.
Three hours later Dean Kaminsky found himself in the math library with four books open as he worked through two problems simultaneously. Pausing every now and then to read through a published paper on humidity and ocean currents.
Snorting during the busy work, 'I think I have finally turned into the biggest weather geek on the planet.', he thought to himself before he put down some notes while working the math in his head, 'KP would never believe this, let alone Mr. Dr. P.'
When he was done the former hero slash sidekick gathered up his books he carried and shoved them into his backpack. Then rose to return the others to their places on the shelves. He donned his black stocking cap (since it was very cool outside) and as he left the library, whistling lowly, very happy with his effort on a Sunday morning; mentally preparing for the Karate class a couple of hours distant.
Hearing shouts and scuffles, the blond American glanced up to see a young woman running away from what appeared to be four men. Mumbling in English, "Here we go again,", and rolling his eyes, "damsel in distress…Once again, buffoon to the rescue.", he huffed a sigh.
After looking around at his surroundings, he was off in a flash after the girl and the men chasing her.
Ron was almost a block behind the four when they turned into an alley. 'Oh this is gonna be special.', he snarked. Then quickly pulling a handkerchief from his hip pocket, he folded it into a large triangle and covered his face, securing it behind his head. He then began to fade from view as he had the Lotus Blade take the form of a Bo staff.
XX
(Please leave me alone.), the young woman pleaded as she backed up further into the alleyway.
(Ha ha!), sneered from one of the men as he advanced on the female, (Your father hasn't paid his protection money for two months…and you know what happens when we get annoyed with late payers…Don't you?)
Terrified, (I don't know what my father has been doing,), the young woman shook her head, (I just work at a restaurant.)
Still invisible, Dean snorted, (I'll bet your teachers are real proud of you with the lousy grammar and all.)
Shocked, the four spun around searching for the source of the voice, when Dean chuckled, (No, not over there…over here stupid.), he snarked a taunt to the thugs.
To their surprise, a masked-blond American suddenly came into view by the girl's side, their eyes widening as they observed him twirling what appeared to be a wooden staff.
With a malevolent grin, (Scaring a girl is gonna get your ass kicked and I'm going to do the kicking.), the former world saver taunted before he raced towards the largest of the four, suddenly springing into the air. In one motion the blond struck one with the staff, performed a flying left-foot sidekick at a second, while his right foot snapped a twist kick into the third, stunning those hoodlums before they could raise a hand. The Former-Sidekick's sidekick caught its victim in the chest at heart level, collapsing him while cracking his sternum. The twist kick nailed its target just above groin level, with the ball of the foot rupturing the bladder and the heel guaranteeing that the hoodlum it landed on was going to have trouble in fathering children. The third found that his skull was fractured as the iron hard staff caught him above the temple on his left side.
Dean landed lightly on his feet. Then looking to the hoodlums writhing on the ground and laughed, (One combination and now you have three going to the hospital.) A quirked eyebrow to their leader, (Now pal… just how lucky do you think you are?), he taunted in a voice similar to one he remembered from an old movie.
Stunned at the display of martial arts prowess, (Do you know who we are?), the fourth hissed as he tried to maintain his fading self-superiority to the one with the covered face.
Shrugging, (Either common hoods or Yakuza…either way it makes no difference.), Dean said casually as the hood raised his shirtsleeve up to display his tattoo, and to intimidate the girl's defender.
Assured of the hood's affiliation, our hero nodded, (You deal with The Mountain now, she is under my protection.)
His smirking demeanor faltering, (The Mountain? I apologize my Lord,), his head bowing, the hood now contrite and fearful, (but we must show that we have received payment or many heads will roll beginning with her father's. There is nothing I can do…)
Dean frowned, (How much does he owe your organization?)
Mustering some pride, (Two hundred eighty thousand yen.), was his reply.
After a few moments in thought, (Let the girl go and I will give you the money.), Dean said as he reached into a pocket, (But you must release her family from the debt or I will bring down my fighters to finish this.), and whipped out two thousand yen, offering it to the hood. Dean's eyes narrowing, (She goes free and I return in an hour with the balance.)
Surprise in his voice, (What is she to you?), the hood growled.
Shrugging nonchalantly, (She's pretty.), Dean said offhandedly. Then his eyes cold, (I will be back here in less than two hours…), he let hang in the air. (If you cheat me I will remove your insides painfully.), he promised.
A simple nod from the Yakuza hood, and our 'masked' hero confidently and the girl, still uneasy, walked unmolested from the alley. After several blocks Dean startled the girl from her stupor, (Write down the name of the business, I want to speak with your father.)
Now fearful she had been saved from one monster by another, (Are you going to hurt him?), the girl squeaked, now shaking.
His eyes smiling warmly above his mask, (No, but we will make a deal.) She paled, and he slightly shook his head, (And it will be one which will not put him into debt to gangsters.) Gently grasping her shoulder, (If he donates any money it will go to the poor.), he assured her. (We do not take money from hard working people, they have enough trouble as it is…)
Nodding, she handed over the note. Dean glanced at it, then to her, (Thank you Miss Azura.), he dipped his head slightly, (On behalf of the poor children I also thank you for anything you can do for them.) Backing away from her, (Now I must go and make good on my part of the bargain.), Dean bowed to her and sprinted away.
X
An hour later the former sidekick walked into the alley to see the lone undamaged hood along with another man. (Here is the money I promised and some extra…), Dean paused as he looked over the second person. Eyes flashing briefly, (Who is your friend?)
The older man bowed respectfully, (I am Sharika Sourie, I am the business manager in this dispute. My associate told me who you represent.), he glanced warily to the hood. (I am sorry if we have offended The Mountain.)
Shrugging, (Normally I don't involve myself with petty disputes,), then his eyes went cold, (however…I thought something bad was going to happen to the girl, and I am honor-bound to not allow that to happen.), and paused to let this sink in before continuing. (From now on we will give you your payment, but do not lean on this family again or my friends will take an interest in your operation.)
Eyebrows raised at this, (Are you now going to take protection money from them?), the older man asked.
Shaking his head, (We only take donations and give that to charity, so no. If they donate, it goes to a good cause.)
Still incredulous, (Why do you do this?), the business manager inquired.
Huffing, (Because it is the right thing to do.), he glared at the pair. Then slowly fading from view, (Now excuse me I have other people to meet…) Then pausing mid-fadeout, (Oh and 'The Mountain' will be notified of this action and of the family in question. Now I must bid a good day to you.), before he faded from sight.
XXX
London:
Giving him a hug, "Alright Wade, you take care of yourself and I'll see you in a couple of months. You just remember to keep up with the lessons they taught you at Yamanouchi.", Kim encouraged her longtime friend.
Laughing as he returned the hug, "Sure Kim, I will, but you have a good time at school and we'll see you at winter break.", the African-American genius smiled.
Turning to board the transport, he and Dr. Director waved before the hatch closed up and they could begin the next leg of their journey; a surprise visit to her brother to see if they could catch him violating the conditions of his pardon.
XXX
Well, another chapter there for your entertainment. Ron's catching up to familiar friends, school and the occasional Yakuza beat down while he gets back into his college rhythm, while Kim catches up with her CO and Tech Meister, but only after a good old fashion free-for-all spar session.
Sheldon is having second thoughts as he flies out to his far-east territory to learn how things there are going so badly…but not before considering recruiting more personnel.
Thanks for following along and hope to keep you interested.