Storm Chaser
Chapter 42
Hello again and it's time for a sporadic reentry into our tale…Sorry for the delay, and certain Guest 'Reviews' being ignored, we continue where the last chapter left off. Real life does continue to intrude, as well as outside influences, such as the three windy visitors that have pounced upon the Southern & Eastern United States, as it wrecked much of the Caribbean and Mexico along the way, before Mexico was shaken very badly.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those who've been the recipients of such harsh weather, and destructive tremors. So many, throughout, have lost so much, sometimes all, and from this comes scenes of so many people rushing in to aid those in need as rescues and recoveries were performed by agencies…and regular folks with shallow-draft boats of all types doing what they could to assist in the aftermath of such overwhelming events that these storms have inflicted upon those in their paths.
Before we start up, we'd like to thank those who've chimed in, last chapter: Jimmy1201, Guest (and we're no longer accepting 'Guest' reviews…), Alex876, Robot Wolf 26Z, dragonbane522, newboy ('nother Guest review-Fist is probably a statue in Amy's garden…), ST103 (trying to 'Guest' us, eh?), Sentinel103, and Bobtrumpet, DrCyrusBortel, Tentat, Twilight rasengan, Brenegan and ValiusShme, thank you one and all!
Life does go on for our heroes…and a villain who's planning a 'Comeback Tour'…while Kim's moving on with her schooling and professional life, and Ron is approaching the end of his schooling while embedding himself into a nice…little…cushy job…flying into hurricanes…Makes Sidekicking seem a bit tame in comparison.
And now, on to the tale.
XXX
Ludden's Microbrewery and Steakhouse, outside of Middleton, Colorado:
Motioning Monique to stand with her, Kim rose from her seat as the GJ Staff Agent recognized her two friends from Oxford as they entered the establishment.
The taller of the two waved, elbowed the shorter one and motioned with her head to follow.
The red head reached out and hugged the taller one, then the more petite one before she turned to her longtime friend, "Monique these are two of my friends from college. Wanda is the taller one and Suzy is the shorter one. They're cousins.". Then to the 'cousins', "And this is Monique Jenkins, my best friend, girlfriend."
The two Asian women offered their hands to Monique, handshakes all around. The African-American beauty laughed lightly, "All I heard almost all summer after Kim got back from Japan was 'Suzy this' and 'Wanda that'. I can only hope that she talked about me the same way over in England."
Suzy laughed as all took their seats in the booth; she and her 'cousin' sat opposite of Kim and Moni. "Kim spoke well of her BFF. It was that she felt sometimes she wasn't a good enough friend for you,", to which Monique blushed. "but it seems like you are closer than ever.", Suzy observed to the fashion diva.
Wanda, going even further, "Kim mentioned that you are designing clothing now. That must be considered an art to be able to create like that."
Blushing as well, Kim decided that it would be better to steer the conversation in another direction before she put herself in a funk. "So, girls, how was your trip back to China?"
Wanda replied to the two Americans, "We were able to meet most of our relatives, thank you for asking. And our Mothers are very proud of us right now."
Smirking, "Well my Mother was proud.", Suzy chuckled. "Wanda, here, couldn't hold her liquor one night when we were out partying with some of our school friends. She embarrassed the whole clan with her actions."
Sensing some choice gossip about to be aired, Monique leaned in as Suzy continued, "She blew chunks and then ripped off her jeans and top, forgetting she wasn't even wearing a bra and began moaning 'Help me, help me'.", the 'cousin' snarked. While avoiding Wanda's glare, she continued, "There she was, drunk as a skunk and half naked in front of her parents' home while my parents, brothers and sisters gazed upon her drunken foolishness.", she snorted. Now haughty, "I am, of course, used to her antics after being around her so many years, so her antics were quite the moment of enlightenment to them of her relative.", Suzie finished as she continued to ignore the glower beside her.
Glaring a badly concealed stage-whisper, "You don't need to tell them everything, cousin.", Wanda frowned, hoping the two Americans bought into the tale, as no matter what happened, she'd never moaned 'Help me'...to anyone…for any reason.
"Suzy?", Monique inquired, "Why were your parents at Wanda's house?"
"They only live two streets over from each other and either of our parents are always over at one or the other's home.", Suzy replied. "And like I said, we are cousins, and have known each other since we were in diapers, so our families are like an extended family.", she further explained what only she and Wanda knew was a lie. Then in order to derail the other girls' thought processes, "So…what kind of beer do they have at this establishment?"
To which the other girls began to look for the drink menu.
Kim giggled as she picked up the list, "I told you Moni, these two know what's important.", she said lightly as she gave the list a onceover, "Although after being in England for all those years, I think I am going to have something more 'American'," she said peering closely at the list, "and a little lighter in calories too, since I spend some of my time behind a desk and can't get exercise all the time like I used to."
Huffing in mock-frustration, "Procreating is what's important too, GF, or at least practicing for it.", Monique tossed at her best friend. Waving a hand casually, "Miss Blonde and Bubbly and Mister Artist have number two in the oven.", Monique announced, holding up two fingers to her friend, "We're behind and not likely to catch up any time soon."
Looking up from her menu, "Tara and Josh?", Kim asked to Monique's nod and smile. "Boy, they have been busy…Do we need to throw a baby shower?"
The fashion diva laughed lightly, "I think so, I'll call a bunch of the others and set it up the get-together.", she smiled, then snorted, "But let's not have it at Bueno Nacho…"
The red head giggled, "That might be tacky, but I think we can come up with something.", she agreed. Shrugging, "I'll have the time for now, since I don't have to go back to Japan with Wade until next summer,", sighing in contentment, "and can just get used to being home fulltime and work in the job that GJ has assigned me to." Looking fondly distant for a moment, "We made even more progress this year than ever."
Then, out of the blue, an old, seemingly forgotten memory slipped into her mind. A familiar, yet distant voice echoed in the back of the red head's mind as she remembered a conversation she had taken part in, years before.
X
Years before:
The raven-haired shinobi kissed the freckled, blond boy on his cheek before she got on the helicopter, right behind the red-robed Master.
"You know Ron, Yori likes you."
"Yeah KP, she's nice to everybody…"
"Ron, I mean she like, likes you."
The blond teen rubbed his cheek, "Whaaaa…she didn't have to be all ninja about it!"
X
Back to reality:
"Kim…GF, are you alright?", a puzzled Monique inquired.
"Huh…uh, what did I miss?"
"You sorta spaced out on us…", she said, waving a hand between them, "We were talking about boys.", the fashion diva told her longtime friend to bring her back to the here and now.
Shaking her head to clear it, "Uh, yeah…", Kim replied. "I…just remembered something that I have to call someone about, but I can do that at a later time.", she half-smiled as she felt she 'suddenly' felt the need to confirm a suspicion she now had since a 'certain' semi-secret school she had been attending may not have been completely forthcoming with her and Wade.
XXX
"And that's a wrap. Good job on the work this year gentlemen and lady.", Colonel Warmarster announced over the C-130's intercom. "Debriefing in one hour in OPS, then break for chow."
X
"Well Mr. Kaminsky, do we have any more interesting weather coming in the next few weeks?"
Ron, aka Dean Kaminsky, stood up, "There is no evidence of anything coming out of Africa until maybe late November and by that time the surface water temperature will have dropped another degree to degree and half. So, no, there is nothing foreseeable on the horizon. And from this, it appears that hurricane season is over until next summer."
"I think we'll wait another day or two before making plans to stand down, and if it still looks quiet then we'll begin to wind down and get ready for the winter season.", the Colonel told them.
X
Walking back to the BOQ after they and some of the others had chow, the 'Old Man' turned to the Weather Geek, "Are you heading out to get your pet in Colorado?", Warmarster inquired.
"Yes sir, Mom and Dad would like to hand him back to me and take Sis on some minor weekend trips without having to worry about him."
"So, they are taking a vacation?", the Colonel asked. A nod in reply, the wheels of his mind turning before the implications of Dean's comment filtered through. "But how about you? In all the time that I've known you, I realize that you really don't talk about 'downtime'…ever"
Appearing sheepish as he rubbed a hand on his neck, "Ah…well sir, I messed up when I was younger…and now I'm trying to make amends…and get caught up with my classmates from high school.", Dean replied, using his old backstory to deflect deeper inquiry from his unofficial CO.
A thoughtful look, "Why don't you gyp the rest of the session, go retrieve your pet and then get back to school.", Warmarster suggested.
Contemplating his offer, "Well…if it's okay I'll leave in later tonight…You have my cell number just in case…right?", he replied.
Nodding knowingly, "I have your number…I also have your number at your apartment and some of your professors' numbers as well, so I'm pretty sure that I can reach you if there is a need.", the Colonel replied, somewhat anxious to give someone who rarely seemed to have it, a little much needed time off.
Dean smiled inwardly, though a bit nervously, since he hadn't been called out for his day job in over a year, and that was so he could perform a little reconnaissance concerning a former student in Arizona. Yet, while he did understand that his 'day job' and his other activities were going to evolve regarding how they affected his life for years to come, he concluded taking a break from the constant grind he now lived was necessary.
Smiling gratefully, "Well…I would like to see the 'rents and the intruder before I get into classes again, sir.", Dean replied as he accepted the offer to head out earlier than expected.
Musing that with the recent lack of evil-activity, the world was becoming a 'nicer' place to live and the need of world saving ninjas weren't as great these days, Ron felt he could relax a bit from the constant hectic schedule he'd been living since he went to Yamanouchi all those years ago.
Breaking him out of his ruminations, "Then, Kaminsky,", the Colonel said, "I would highly advise you get to it, pick up that cat of yours and get back to school.", he advised with a smirk.
Smirking in return, "Well then, I'll head out to pack my bags and be on my way.", Dean snorted. "But I will keep track of the weather patterns and let you know if my analysis changes."
A curt nod, "Good, Kaminsky…thanks.", Warmarster replied. Then changing to a quite familiar topic between them. "But…have you given any thought about that Air Force commission, yet?"
Shaking his head, with a small apologetic smile, "Yes sir, I have…", Dean cocked an eyebrow at his 'CO', "And while I appreciate the offer, I'm pretty sure that at this point in my career that I want to stay in the civilian sector. And…if that keeps me from flying with the Hurricane Hunters, I understand and I'll find another venue for me to continue my work.", the blond told his superior.
A wry grin, "Son, regardless, I am sure that the Hunters would love to continue your association. You have worked and studied very hard to become a leader in the field and we are grateful for some of the things you have been able to accomplish.", he declared. "It's just that you are one of the few who have taken to this naturally and we'd like to make you one of our own."
Dean chuckled, "Or is it that you want to keep me in that loop, just so you can learn more about a Karate style?", he deflected a much trod upon trail between them, in either case.
At the thought of Dean's prowess in martial arts, the Air Force Officer chuckled, "I think that I have learned enough about what you can do from the bruises I've received to not want to take you on in a serious fight without something backing me up to give me an edge…like a whole security police unit armed to the teeth."
Dean snorted at Warmarster's 'tribute' to his subordinate's prowess, "Like that would help you.', he rebutted to the Colonel's begrudging shrug/nod. "Now, I'm going to call and have a plane come to the business wing of the airport and pick me up.", he said before smiling at 'nothing'. "It'll be great to see the fam again."
A warm grin, "I'm sure it will.", he replied. Then continuing with small talk, "Uh how close are you getting to your dual PhDs Kaminsky?", the 'old' man inquired.
Pausing to consider his answer, "At the moment, I am writing both of my theses and let me tell you, it is taking a while.", Dean grimaced. "However, I expect to defend them after the first of the year.", the young man who's worn many hats in the travels of his still young life informed the Air Force Officer as they walked along towards the BOQ.
X
Five hours later:
The young blond boarded the private jet and began to store his bags behind one of the lavish chairs present. A young woman stepped to him, "Mr. Kaminsky, would you like for me to put these bags in a more secure location?"
"Ah could you just show me where that would be, Miss? I can handle my own bags.", Dean offered, before she did just that.
Settling in his comfortable seat, the blond waited for the flight to Colorado to begin, where a rental car awaited him in the VIP lot of the airport.
XXX
Drakken's Caribbean Multipurpose Residence…:
Pausing as she brushed her daughter's hair, Sharon Lipsky, aka Shego asked her approaching not-so-mad scientist Husband, "Ok Blue Boy, what are you working on now?"
Turning to her Father, little Samantha Jean Lipsky, nicknamed Sasha, looked on in amusement at the back-and-forth between her Mom's well-known jibes and her Dad's flustered reactions. Though she'd lived most of her life in this 'home' (One of Drakken's former lairs, a sentimental favorite for him and his Wife), she was quite the precocious little imp. Home Schooled, due to Shego possessing a degree in Child Development, she was quite advanced for someone her age, something which could also be highly attributed to the genetics of her 'rents...Though not a 'Plasma Burner' like her Mom, yet- supposed by all present, it was a development that all living at the lair/home were patiently prepared for its eventuality.
Smiling at the question, devoid of his Wife's usual snark, "I'm glad you asked…I'm in the process of developing new ballistic armor for Betty. It is very thin and lightweight.", he replied to Sasha's dismay at the apparent lack of a homebrew family floor show. "If you remember GJ gave me an advance on this project and I'd like to clear it off the table to free up some time so we can take a vacation.", Drew informed his wife as she continued to prepare their daughter for bed. A near-ritual followed nightly after the young girl had finished watching the offerings they received from their less than legal satellite reception in the Caribbean. Tonight's event had been a children's cartoon movie from the Mouse Ear Channel.
Pondering Drew's answer, "Oh, I remember that one…So, they want some return for their money, huh?", the raven-haired woman remembered as she went back to brushing her daughter's impressive mane of jet-black hair.
Eagerly nodding, "Yes Shego, quite right. And I have some ideas for other projects, so I'd like to get this one done so that I can devote all my time on them afterward."
"That's understandable Doc.", Shego replied. "Oh, and have you been paying attention on what Sam is able to do?"
Pride in his voice, "She's using the computer like a pro Shego. That was the reason I built her that unit and taught her beginning code."
Angsty realization dawning, "No wonder she acts screwy sometimes…But I can't do that…"
Smugly, "I'm going to test her in a couple of years to see if she is a genius…", Drakken started a rant.
Only to be halted by, "Don't push her Doc.", Shego cocked an eyebrow at her 'helicopter dad' of a husband, "I want our child to have as normal of a childhood as she can.", she said, drawing on some of her training from her degree on the matter. Waving a hand mockingly, "I mean…look what happened to you."
Quite indignant, "There is nothing wrong with me…", he growled.
Growling in return, "Do you want me to call your Mother to verify this?", as Shego gave Drakken the 'stink' eye.
Sputtering, "Moth…I think we can leave her out of this discussion Shego.", Drew backtracked his pride, mollified his wife and put an end to his bluster. It was bad enough he was henpecked by the two women he lived with that he did not want to have another one gladly visit and add to that misery.
XXX
From his seat on the dais, Sheldon Director glanced around the auditorium, audience still filing in. Shortly after the last seat was taken, he stood at the podium, center-stage. A hush came as he adjusted the microphone.
Looking out over the assembled, "Gentlemen, thank you for continuing to support our little group in its efforts to return as one of the great powers that we know we are. We have continued to work in the background, sometimes making breakthroughs, sometimes enduring setbacks.", he paused for a moment. "As you know, a few years ago we decided to strike out and become a legitimate, upstanding business…This was done for several reasons…", the room rumbled in amusement, "And as of now that strategy seems to have paid off." An air of relief was felt in the room. Continuing, "In a short amount of time some of you will be reassigned to some new divisions within the corporation." Surprise now the feeling in the room. "And as always keep an eye and an ear out for security." His face solemn, he frowned, "Although the police forces that dogged us in the past appeared to have slackened in their vigilance it is something that we can NOT afford to count on. So be vigilant, be aware and leave nothing to chance to those still observing us and our operations."
Assured his message was received, the one-eyed 'former' villain then turned and left the dais with several inner circle lieutenants accompanying him.
As soon as they were out of earshot, "Do you think they bought it Boss?", Mika Richards asked.
Quite assured of the answer, "Of course.", Sheldon replied. "Although we are not going to be doing quite what I told them. I want to make sure that GJ (shudder) doesn't have a mole amongst us and this will give us a chance to flush any of them out."
"What do we do when we catch one?", another of the inner circle asked.
Sheldon stopped for a moment and turned to them, "Gentlemen, we are members of a criminal organization with an intention on taking over the world or at least blackmailing it. What would you consider doing if someone infiltrated us?" Message delivered and understood, he pivoted and continued walking to his next destination.
Nodding, all understood the implications and caught up with the former Director of the World Wide evil Empire. Once he was assured of their presence around him, "Remember, we are playing for keeps…A few years ago we tried to possess some nuclear weapons to affect change in the world order. We actually had them in our grasp when someone attacked our men and killed most of them.", he growled as he clenched his metal hand, "We are playing for keeps."
One of the group suggested, "It looks like someone else is playing for keeps, too sir. And you are right that we must be on our guard if we are to take this organization to the level of where it belongs."
Turning to that person, "You are quite correct. And if you are serious about thwarting these interlopers, call my office in the morning, I believe I have a job assignment you may be interested in.", Sheldon offered to the young man he had watched rise from within the company for the last couple of years.
XXX
Ludden's Micro Brewery and Steakhouse:
Passing out hugs amongst the four young women, Kim chided the other three, "Ugh, I have to work in the morning guys, so no more after midnights for a while.", she smiled brightly to them. "And since it looks like I'm going to be in the area for more than a while, I'm going to start looking for a condo close by so I can be near Mom and Dad." Looking to her best friend, "So Monique, when are you going to looking for a place?"
Shrugging, "In a few months. I can't keep taking advantage of Justy's parents, it wouldn't be fair.", the fashionista told her longtime friend.
Tapping a finger to her cheek for a few moments, Kim looked to her, "You can move in with me when I get my place. I really don't have many possessions to put in it, and there's going to be a whole lot of house and no one to share it with. I'd be too lonely."
Grateful, but hesitant, "Kim, I couldn't…"
Stopping short of using her PDP, "Okay Moni, but it won't be for a long time. Maybe for a year or two.", Kim modified her offer.
Looking off in thought, "Will it be big enough for my sewing machine? I like to do a few things on my own once in a while.", Monique explained.
Kim beamed, "I'm sure we can find something that will suit our purposes."
"GF!", Monique squealed as she hugged her friend again, "I would love to live with you! And when that skinny blond boy of yours comes back you'll have to kick me out."
"When Ron comes back maybe we'll buy a house close by, so you'll be able to keep the condo.", Kim suggested, "That way we can still spend a lot of time together."
At this exchange, Wanda and Suzy both smiled. Unbeknownst to their friends, they had already purchased a large three-bedroom condo with a two-car garage.
Suzy offered, "Kim, there are some open units in our complex where we just bought a condo. And I can tell you that they are large, upscale and have their own security."
Monique turned to look at Suzy, "That place sounds like what Kim might be interested in girls, maybe we should go and look the place over."
Kim nodded, "What's the name of the place, Suzy?"
"Shamrock Links.", Wanda replied for her 'cousin', "It has a golf course there too."
Kim laughed lightly, "Wow. I'm so glad we met tonight, that saves us the headache of searching for a place to live.", she replied. Glancing to her best friend/girlfriend, "Maybe Monique and I can go over there on Sunday to check it out."
"I think you should Kim, you will like what you see.", she beamed. Then, "It was nice seeing you for dinner and Monique it was nice meeting you as well, I hope we can do this again soon.", Wanda said. "Now, we have to go shopping for furniture and pots and pans…"
Suzy snorted, "As long as you don't cook, cousin." Kim and Monique laughed at an exchange that struck home with the two women.
Pointing at the red head, "I know what you mean, she's like that, too.", Mo snorted. "In fact, we could move in together, but those two would end up poisoning each other."
Suzy laughed, "And my aunt would never let me live it down. Though I think they wouldn't be that bad off. Their stomachs have been conditioned to withstand their cooking skills."
The red head groaned, "Ha, ha.", Kim deadpanned. "I'm not as bad as I used to be in the kitchen. In fact, Ron taught me a few tricks before I left for England.", she retorted.
Monique snorted. She had the inside information on what the former heroes had been up to for most of their senior year, "GF… from what you told me, they're not the kind of tricks to be used in polite society."
While the former cheerleader captain's blush reached the color of her hair, Wanda inquired, "Kim has told us a little about this 'Ron'. How about another round or two so that we can learn something about her past?"
At this point the color of Kim's face matched her hair. Struggling to reply, "Okay but only for another half hour.", she sputtered. "I need to get some sleep, so I can be ready to take on a new assignment in the morning. I can't go there and be all bleary-eyed as they want me to look over reports so that I am brought up to speed."
XXX
Golden, Colorado:
Barbara Stoppable (aka Kaminsky) smiled as she ended the call on her cellphone. "Hanna, Rufus, come here please." And then she pulled a tray of freshly baked oatmeal and raisin cookies out of the oven; placing them on a wire rack to cool.
A pink blur was soon followed by a raven haired one.
"Cheese?", Rufus asked.
"No, but I have oatmeal cookies.", Barb replied when his face fell. "Why don't I get some milk and you can have everything on the rack as long as you promise me that you'll go to bed and get a full night's sleep."
"Mom,", Hanna asked, "What's going on?"
"Your brother is coming in tomorrow morning."
"We have to tell Dad…"
"When Ron shows up that'll be our way of telling him.", Mrs. Kaminsky slash Stoppable giggled as she put in play, on her husband, the same game they had been playing on Ron since way before he became a teenager.
XXX
Denver Airport:
"Mr. Kaminsky, when we get secured, a car will come and take you to the rental lot where your transportation is waiting.", the attendant informed the blond haired young man.
"Good. I hope it's a simpler car than what I've requested in the past. That's all I need this trip.", he nodded. Then, "Did the captain inform you that I plan to fly to Miami on Sunday?", Dean inquired.
Nodding in return, "Yes, Mr. Kaminsky. We are assigned crew rest as you requested.", the petite blonde replied.
Dean stroked his blond beard, "You are being compensated, correct?"
"Yes, our rooms and meals…"
Interrupting, "Wages?". Dean inquired.
"Yes. Half pay, since we aren't flying.", she informed him.
Taken aback, "Half pay? No that's not right. Wait a moment while I make a call to straighten this out."
Five minutes later:
"There, the crew has full overtime pay, plus rooms, meals, rental vehicles and entertainment is covered as part of their per diem package while they are waiting for a client. Does that sound fair Miss?", Dean asked the shocked young woman.
At this point the pilot and co-pilot had been called by the hostess and were standing next to her as Dean brought them up to speed regarding their employment package's additions.
Stunned, Captain Martin Hovelmatt, the pilot asked, "Sir…how are you able to do this?"
Smiling to them, "Name's Dean Kaminsky, I own the company.", the young adult informed his three employees. "Did you receive a company credit card?"
Frowning slightly, "Yes, but the limit isn't very high.", Hovelmatt replied.
"The limit will be increased.", he assured them. Then, "Until that takes place next week, I'll make up the difference.", Dean said as he pulled a wad of hundreds out of his pants pocket and handed it to the pilot, "This should help to take the sting out of staying here for the weekend.", he said. "Now, if you run out give me a call on my cell and I'll help out further while you're here in Denver…Oh the Rockies® are playing at home this weekend. Would you need tickets for tomorrow's game?"
Numbly, the co-pilot nodded, "That would be great Mr. Kaminsky…"
Smirking, "The name's Dean, Mr. Kaminsky is my Dad." Then reaching into his pants pocket, "Now let me give you my phone number so that if you have any problems, I can take care of them."
Dean then showed his number and had each member of the crew put it into their cellphone.
A noise was heard outside of the plane; the pilot went to the hatch to investigate. Upon his return, "Sir, the ride to your car is here." Extending his hand, "Have a good weekend, and thanks for doing all this for us."
Shaking the hand firmly, "You work hard and it is high time you began to be treated like it. I'll make sure this goes company-wide before Sunday, you should be getting a formal notice sometime this weekend.", the CEO assured them, "If you don't hear of it by Monday afternoon, call my phone and I'll make sure that it is taken care of.", the young man nodded to them before he turned to leave the executive jet, and get this part of the trip over.
XXX
The red head looked at the 'special' phone in her grasp, a phone similar to the one Ron Stoppable had used years before when he contacted a 'certain' secret martial arts school. After the phone booted up, she pressed her thumb on the single indention on the side and waited.
A few seconds later a voice, in English, sounded from the speaker, "Good evening Kim-san, how may we assist you?"
Sighing, "I have a question to ask Sensei.", the GJ agent responded.
"Is it something that I can help you with?", she heard in response.
Frowning, "I don't know…it's about Ron Stoppable.", Kim explained.
After a few seconds of near-dead air, a muffled conversation was not quite so muffled by a hand on the speaker, "The Chosen…Stoppable-san?", was stuttered out. Then quickly, "You must understand Kim-san, I am not authorized to divulge that information in this communications medium.", was the solemn reply to Kim's sigh.
Then, after a few seconds of quieter air, "Sensei is attending a conference in Tokyo for a few days, so he will be unavailable for a short while…but any information to be given out regarding Stoppable-san will only be given out face-to-face. Regardless of your status as a student of Yamanouchi."
Rubbing the bridge of her nose in frustration, "I can't travel to Japan right now…I just started a new job.", Kim explained.
A lighter tone now, "That is easily rectified Kim-san.", was the reply. "Would it be sufficient for our representatives to meet with you at your domicile?"
Rolling her eyes in relief, the red head quietly sighed. "That sounds great, but how will I know that they are your genuine agents?"
A smirk seemed to be in the reply, "I assure you Kim-san, you will recognize them. Please remember this is for your benefit and Yamanouchi's security. Our agents will tell you enough to partially satisfy your desires for this knowledge, although they may not answer all of your questions.", was heard. Kim's shoulders sagged as the voice continued, "Be patient with what you learn about Stoppable-san, his schooling is nearly complete. Good night Kim-san…remember our agents will contact you soon.", the voice said before the phone 'disconnected'.
Anxious, Kim knew she had to speak with someone about this, but it being so late in the day, she decided to just take a shower and go to bed. Wade was scheduled to be at GJ in the morning and she knew that they could speak quietly together.
X
The next morning:
Her voice light, "Hey Wade.", Kim greeted her longtime friend at the doorway to his lab, "Do you want to go for a walk in the woods for lunch today instead of sparring?"
Looking warily to his friend and his unofficial mentor in all things physical training, "This isn't some sort of obstacle course you have set up, Kim?", the African-American genius hesitantly asked.
Smirking, she shook her head, "No, not it's not.", Kim assured him. "But I remembered something from a long time ago that I want to share with you and ask your opinion. And…I'd like to talk to you without other people listening in."
Still hesitant, but now for a different reason, "Kim…"
Holding up a hand, "I already contacted one of the cafeterias and they are going to make us a picnic lunch.", Kim tempted her friend.
Looking hopeful, "Fried chicken?", Wade asked.
A curt nod, "Fried chicken.", the red head confirmed.
His eyes starting to light up, "Ron's famous fried chicken?"
Smirking, "Is there any other kind?"
A breathy sigh, "Thanks Kim, I'll see you at your cubicle at about twelve-thirty.", Wade smiled. "If so, I'd better get back to work so I can be free by then."
Pausing to think a moment, "Can you make it at eleven? We both have a meeting with Dr. Director at three.", Kim reminded the tech genius.
Light-bulb moment for the young man, "Eleven it is.", Wade replied remembering the meeting as well.
With a half-smile, Kim turned to go back to her desk. A spring in her step as she hoped to get more information from her friend while she waited for the associates from the martial arts school to contact her.
XXX
Just off Glen Coe County Road, Golden, Colorado:
Exiting the Jeep Cherokee© the 'Corporation' had rented for him to drive from DIA (Denver International Airport), the blond calmly walked up to the front door and used the doorbell, alerting those inhabiting the home that someone was there. Before asking why he was here, this was a place he had acquired and had paid for prior to his summer trip to the South Pole. (Oh, and for all you HAM radio operators…the call sign for the Amateur radio station there is KC4AAA. The station is normally 'active' on Christmas Day, on 20 meters or about 14.2 megahertz on lower sideband…look it up, but you will need a HF rig to listen in…oh but if you aren't licensed do NOT speak…AN)
Dean absently rubbed his beard as he waited for the front door to be opened. From the back of the vast dwelling, in the kitchen, Barb Kaminsky heard the door-chime. Turning to her husband, "Dear, why don't you check the door?"
Looking up from his treadmill's display, "Sure Barb, right away. But have you seen Hanna lately?"
Nodding towards the den, "She's watching cartoons with Rufus, Dean. Now scoot, Ronald might have sent us something and we don't want the poor delivery man to have to make another trip out here."
Reaching to shut down the treadmill, "Well Ronald is supposed to call us soon, isn't he?", Dean asked as he carefully prepared to get off his daily workout machine.
Shrugging, "I suppose so.", Barb sighed wistfully. Then raising an eyebrow at him, "Now hurry up.", she urged her hubby as he hopped off the aerobic workout device responsible for the thirty pounds he'd lost since starting this exercise regimen back in Norway.
Hurrying to avoid the 'look' that came from what his wife considered dawdling, the actuary quickly made his way to the front door. His greeting stalled, "May I help yo…"
Casually waving, "Hey Dad.", the blond meteorology graduate student said.
"Son?", nearly speechless for once, "Um…why didn't you call?", Dean sputtered.
Smirking, "I did…last night…When I talked to Mom and Hanna.", the former sidekick replied, "I guess this was their way of telling you, huh?", mirth dancing in his eyes at the karma.
Knowing when he'd been had, "Well come in and bring your bags.", Dean told the younger male.
Turning to his Jeep, "Let me get my things. Be right back."
X
Ron, aka Dean when he's not with family or Yamanouchi friends, snatched another cookie off the platter while he sipped on his black coffee, "It's been a fun summer dad, we had a couple of Cat Fours and were able to forecast where they were going correctly."
Dean smiled, "And you got the information out so that people could evacuate, correct?"
"Yes sir, only a handful of lives were lost, and if they had listened we might not have had any losses." Shaking his head sadly, "There is nothing I can do if they won't listen.", the former hero lamented at the folly of those who won't listen to reason.
Barb put her arm around her son, someone who was trying to become an elite meteorologist, "You know you can't save the ones who don't want to be saved.", she squeezed his shoulder, nodding sadly.
Familiar of this, from his days as Kim's Sidekick with Team Possible, "Yeah Mom, Colonel Warmarster told me the same thing. I only hope that people heed our warnings when we tell them to get to safety."
Dean looked over at his son, "This is America, Ron.", using the young man's given name when in private, "You can't MAKE people do anything…even if it is for their welfare. You do the best you can do, and give them the information they need to save themselves from harm. The final decision to get out of harm's way is up to them.", replied the Actuary, who was quite aware of the reality in the numbers of such things.
Sighing sadly, "Yeah I know.", Ron replied. Then with a small smile, "You guys want me to make dinner?", intent upon moving on from a depressing topic to something less dramatic, "I know I'm a little out of practice, but I DO need to do something."
XXX
GJ:
Barely holding in a smirk, Kim handed Wade a basket, "You're a guy, you can carry it."
More interested in the contents of the basket, he obliviously missed the shot at the expectations of his gender, "It has food in it right?", asked the young man, concerned of a bait-and-switch prank from his physical training mentor.
Smiling, the red head nodded as the African-American genius grabbed the large basket while Kim kept the blanket. After they had walked for about fifteen minutes the former teen heroine looked around, "I think this is good enough Wade."
After spreading the blanket, she took the basket and set it on a corner, before she motioned for him to sit across from her after she took a place on one side.
Tentatively, Wade sat down, "So…what gives? Guys and girls who are dating go on picnics,", he cocked an eyebrow at her, "and as far as I know we aren't dating…"
Cutting him off, "There's something I wanted to talk to you about, and I wanted to be assured of near-absolute privacy.", Kim said to Wade's widening smirk (if there was anyone who knew how difficult it was for privacy at GJ, it was the tech-savvy Wade), "But this is from something that happened last night while I was out with Monique and some friends.", she continued before he could add anything. "The talk jogged something I remembered that Ron said, a long time ago and I wanted to run it past you."
At his look of askance, she dove right in with the topic.
Ten minutes later:
Sitting back, Wade nodded as he rubbed his chin, "I remember that mission…it wasn't like any of the other ones you'd been involved in…you didn't get a call, or anything, and it was mostly just to track down Ron when he went off like he did…with Yori.", he looked off as he started to put the pieces together. "That and the Yono mission settles this also.", he concluded.
Looking back to his friend, "So from this, we can guess that Yori is a ninja…and so is Hirotaka.", Wade replied. "And Sensei did tell us that Yamanouchi has many of its alums in the Japanese government, too…", he said as he extrapolated further. Shrugging, "Hell, I guess if you suspect that Yori and that Hiro guy are ninjas, then it stands to reason that Uroki is probably one too…Or at least a trainee."
Her demeanor now questioning, "And if they are all ninjas…then what is the possibility that Ron's a ninja too?", Kim followed up that thought.
Nodding a bit hesitantly, "Then that's a big possibility, too…But, we'd have to ask someone who knows.", Wade responded.
Nodding in agreement, Kim said, "Remember the single-use phones that they gave us this summer?"
Searching for the memory of this, "Yeah…"
"Well, I used mine last night to call Yamanouchi to ask that specific question.", Kim enlightened Wade.
At his blank look, "They couldn't say anything over the phone, so they are sending someone to talk to me and I think it should be us to answer what questions we have about Ron."
Tilting his head, "Kim.", Wade said, "I wasn't in your head back then…Want to clue me in?", he waved his hand in a 'tell me more' mode.
Blushing lightly, "See, when I followed Ron and Yori to help find Sensei…uh, she kissed him…", Kim trailed off with a detail she hadn't related in her earlier explanation of Ron's and Yori's mission back in high school.
Lost and puzzled, "Sensei?"
Frustrated, "Noooo, Ron.", Kim huffed. Snorting, "Anyway, I told Ron that Yori liked him and he responded that 'Yori's nice to everybody'…", she sighed, "…Then I explained to Ron that Yori liked him liked him."
The light still not going on overhead, "Kim, I'm still not picking up what you're trying to get at.", Wade's confusion mounted.
Realizing she inadvertently left one piece of information out, "Okay Wade, you're right, there was something else…Ron then said Yori didn't have to be so 'ninja' about it.", Kim related, "So…"
The bulb lighting up, Wade finished the thought, "Ron knew back then that Yori was a ninja and…that Yamanouchi was a ninja school."
Smiling, "Yeah.", she nodded eagerly, "So…from that I figured out that Ron's probably a ninja, too…And we both know what he did at Graduation…"
Settling back, "Sooo, Ron might be one of Yamanouchi's assets…", Wade posed as he rubbed his chin in thought. "Maybe…an assassin?", he tossed out.
A look of concern, "And maybe this helped him to defeat the Lowardians…", Kim said, as her tone changed, likewise, "He could be very dangerous…", she gulped, "Like he was when he was Zorpox."
Cautiously, Wade asked Kim, "Dangerous to who?"
Shaking her head slowly, "I don't know, Wade…Maybe to me, or you…I just don't know. And that's why I called Yamanouchi."
X
Golden, Colorado:
"Thanks for baking the dessert, Mom.", Dean said as he turned the apple cheddar brats.
"Thank you for coming home Ro…Dean.", Barb Kaminsky laughed, getting back in context, "Your Father isn't that good on the grill,", she looked around overhead, "and in another month, we will be having to do most of the cooking inside."
The pink rodent, maintaining his perch on Dean's shoulder, looked on as the blond haired young man finally (to his way of thinking) handed Rufus a chunk of cheddar.
Dean, the elder and actual Dean of the family, sipped on his iced tea as he watched the interaction between his family, "When are we going back to Middleton? It's been years."
Walking quickly to her husband, Barb sat and quietly said, "We can't go back, there is too much pain.", shushing him from commenting further with Ron so close by.
XXX
Shamrock Links Estates, Middleton:
Trailing a few feet behind Monique, Kim scanned the model-unit with interest.
Gushing, "Kim, this is way more than I bargained for!", Monique beamed as she drifted through the dwelling. "Four bedrooms, one of which I can put my dressmaking things in and the other you can use for an office…This is way more space than I thought we would find here."
Meeting with the saleslady when they ended their tour, "Do you have any questions?", she asked the obviously happy soon-to-be-occupants.
Kim turned to her, "Do you have the price list for the four-bedroom one? My friend will be moving in with me, but I am going to make the purchase."
Checking her listings, "We have two that are ready to furnish Miss…ah."
"Possible.", Kim replied.
Nodding in vague familiarity, "I'll need you to fill out the paperwork for it…But maybe we should go to the units and you can take your pick." Then the woman held out her hand, "I know we introduced ourselves earlier…My first name is Linda…but…Kim Possible?". she asked.
"Uh, yeah.", Kim replied while shaking Linda's hand.
"I was a cheerleader at Upperton when you were a freshman at Middleton."
Kim smiled, "It's a small world."
Then with another realization, Linda added, "Oh, and if you sign the contract today it's ten percent off the sale price."
"Well let's check out the units and then we can talk turkey.", Kim laughed lightly, "Oh this is Monique, she'll be living with me until she finds her own place."
X
Three hours later:
Keys in hand, Kim and Monique found themselves sitting at a corner table in a coffee shop while they discussed how they were going to decorate their new domicile.
Pausing when Kim's phone gave off a tone for an inbound call, the former heroine tapped the green button, "Kim Possible."
A familiar voice sounded, "Kim-san this is Yori. We will be in town on Tuesday. Will you be able to meet with Hiro and me?"
Smiling brightly, "Sure…And if you don't mind, I'd like Dr. Load to be there too."
"We prefer that Kim-san. And we will bring Uroki Fujicsu with us. She misses Dr. Load."
XXX
Things continue to move on, as Kim has questions about Ninja Ron and Ninja Yori while the red head restarts her life in Colorado. Ron's checking in on things, and finds he has to issue new edicts for his company's offline personnel…Gemini's gathering his forces, seconds and has started planning…
Until then, see you next time.