Systems Analysis and Catching Up

by MichaelCross

What happens when Sakura finds herself curious during a driving lesson in Roadwolf? The creator of the system gets into it. Also, a horrifying truth is discovered by a member of the external SRT. Has slight lemon scene within.

2. Chapter 2

Special Delivery

Disclaimer: I do not own Kim Possible, Street Hawk, Thunderbirds, Transformers or Full Metal Panic. Wish I did, though.

Author's Note: This story ties in at the tail end of 'S.A.C.U.' What do former heroes do when they see suffering on the news? They do something about it. Along with come across a sitch involving the Thunderbirds and a new foe. Also, they'll meet a new friend in a kick-ass cool truck. Twenty points if you can guess the series it's from.

"Okay, Sand Hawk looks good to roll if we need it to. Bonnie, how's War Bird looking?" On the Kimmunicator's screen, Bonnie Rockwaller softly smirks at her former rival, Kim Possible-Stoppable.

"Spankin', K. War Bird's ready to fly. Hirotaka, how's Sky Base looking?"

"Everything is okey-day, Bonnie. My tongue is fat. My tongue is fat."

"Alright, 'Jar-Jar'. I already know about your tongue. And I want some more. Later, K. Gotta go make out with my husband now."

"Have fun."

As the screen winks off, Kim can only sigh and chuckle as she watches her husband and Lieutenant Stuart Argyle go over Rolling Base while Jessica Mach goes over Hard Hawk. Curious about something, she then goes over to her beloved, not knowing Stuart's bringing up the same thing she's thinking.

"Ron, when we get done with what we're doing, just how are we going to manage to avoid the greckin' press? I mean, they're going to be crawling all over us when we touch down on the greckin' tarmac in Tokyo."

"Just leave that to me, Stuart. I have a plan." Ron Stoppable can't help but grin as he turns around in time to see his beloved wife. "Yo, Kimbo."

"Ron, what's this hare-brained scheme of yours?"

"What hare-brained scheme? This plan is fool-proof."

"Ron, half the time, in the past, your plans were usually half-baked, not even warmed up yet or nuked in the oven."

"Oh, that was in the past, Kimbo. This idea is properly fully baked and delicious. Trust me." The silly grin from Ron is all Kim needs as she starts giggling.



"Of that, I'll hold my judgment on until I see what you've got in mind. Jessica, how's Hard Hawk looking?"

"The cannons look like they're FMC, Kim. The missile launchers are the same way. Considering they haven't been used very much, of course. Why did Norman think it was a good idea to have something I couldn't even find a use for in the first place?"

"It's a 'just in case' thing, Jessica. He just wanted to cover every possible scenario we could come across with our vehicles. You're no different than that."

"Then why didn't he mount missiles on Sand Hawk?"

"Where would he put them? The chassis is large and strong enough to support the twin cannons. Along with the armor."

"But, why not the mini-missiles Street Hawk has?"

"Jessica, I don't even know how he got missiles that small. Even more, I think Mithril bought up all the remaining minis, aside from the rescue pontoons, bought by the Coast Guard, and put them with Roadwolf. It's probably just as well. The missiles from Street Hawk would probably have been overkill for any hostiles we could come across."

"Hostiles? What do you mean by hostiles, Ron?"

"I'm sure you heard of a group called Abu Sayyaf, haven't you?"

"Yeah. They're an ally of Al-Qaida that work in the Philippines. Which borders with… oh damn." Her eyes wide, she asks, "You actually think we're going to come across those loonies?"

"It's a possibility. Together, we're going to traverse hostile terrain. Climb the highest mountain in that area to get our precious cargo delivered. If we have to, we'll fight our way through swarms of bloodthirsty homicidal maniacs armed with rifles and machetes. And if we're real lucky, I mean really lucky, we'll fight our way through two-thousand highly poisonous snakes."

"Two thousand highly poisonous snakes? There are thousands of snakes over there?"

"There's gotta be if you look hard enough, Jessica."

'He's mad.' Stuart then asks, "Can't we do this any easier way? One that doesn't involve going through all that?"

"Well, yeah, but then where's the entertainment value?"

"Entertainment value? How is that entertainment, Ron?"

"You know those old credit card commercials, Kim?" At her nod, he goes on.



"Here's the way I see it. 'Doing the decent thing; great. Delivering food and supplies to those that need it; heartwarming. Making the junta lose face in the eyes of the world; priceless.' It doesn't get any clearer than that and it doesn't get much better than that."

'He's nuts.' Stuart's musing is cut short as Ron closes the back door on Rolling Base, a grin on his face.

"Okay. Rolling Base is ready to roll. All we need are the food and med-sups to distribute."

"Spankin'. Bonnie and Hirotaka reported that War Bird and Sky Base are ready for transport."

"Great. I just hope Bonnie's up to flying an attack helicopter in her current condition."

"Ron, she's a month pregnant. Not dying."

"I know. I just don't want anything to go wrong while we fly." Checking his watch, he adds, "We better get going."

"Okay. Let's go."

"Okay, KP. Come on, Stuart." Stuart gives Jessica a nervous smile and gets a giggle in return. "You two can moon at each other later, but we're running behind."

As the four get into Rolling Base, Jessica nervously fingers the engagement ring on her ring finger, fervently hoping it was not a dream. Softly sighing in relief upon finding the simple diamond ring, she then smiles as the van leaves the 'Ferret Hole'. Turning toward Kim, she sees the lithe redhead smiling.

"Kim, can I ask you something personal?"

"Sure, Jessica."

"Did you ever finger your engagement ring after Ron proposed to you? Hoping it wasn't a dream at all, I mean."

"Oh yeah. Even after we got married, I still fingered my ring, hoping I wasn't dreaming. I still do so every now and then, just to be sure."

"Did Ron ever notice it?"

"No. Usually because I'd do it out of his view because I didn't want him to think I was having second thoughts. About him or our future together." Giving Jessica a soft smirk, she asks, "You're fingering your ring, I take it?"

"Yeah. I mean, I wasn't even expecting it."

"So how'd he propose? Tell all."

"How about during the drive to the field?"



"Sure. While we drive, you can so spill. Or, do you want to wait until we get there so you can tell Bonnie in War Bird?"

"I think I'll wait. You and Bonnie have both been the only ones I can talk 'girl talk' with. Apart with Tara, of course. Thinking of, shouldn't we get Felix and Tara in on this? I mean, I know they weren't part of Team Hawk, with them being Thunderbirds, but surely they'd jump at the chance to help in a disaster zone."

"Thunderbird 2 is already on the way there, with Thunderbird 1 providing escort. They'll take one side of the nation while we take the other. As for Felix and Tara, they're spending quality time with their kids."

"I see. What about the junta? They won't be too happy with us doing a humanitarian drop."

"If the morons in the junta have a problem with it, they can take it up with the UN Security Council. In all likelihood, they'll be rebuked for their inaction after the disaster."

"They'll be angry about getting egg in their face, Kim."

"So who gives a shit? I will not stand by and let innocent people suffer just because their country's leaders say everything is well in hand. From what Ron and I can see, everything is so not in hand. Isn't that right, Ron?"

"That is correct, Kimbo."

Snorting incredulously, Kim then adds, "If my suspicions are right, then our action is more than justified. Ron's suspicious of the whole thing as well."

"Suspicious of what, Kim? The junta governing Indonesia?" At that question, Ron jumps in.

"Yeah. Why else would the world be shown images of people suffering when the junta says that 'Everything's okay. We don't need your assistance'. That, to me, just screams 'bad road'. Miles of it."

Jessica considers it before gasping. "That's why you brought up those bastards in 'AS'. You thought they may have gotten a foothold in a government position."

Kim nods and replies, "Yeah. He does. And quite frankly, I fear he's right." The two femmes are silent the rest of the way as they ponder what had been said.

Five minutes later, as Rolling Base drives along Middleton's streets, Ron spies Stuart looking longingly out the passenger side window.

"You okay, buddy?"

"Yeah, I'm fine, Ron. Just still in disbelief I'm engaged to a beautiful young woman."



"Believe me, I know how that feels. After I proposed to Kim, I felt like I was dreaming even though I was still wide awake. When we found out we were going to be parents, the 'dream' got even better."

"Yeah. I've seen how you and Kim dote over your kids." Stuart gives a nervous chuckle before going on. "I don't even know what kind of Father I'd make."

"Only way to find out for sure is to try it. Start off small. Kitten, puppy or a naked mole rat." The mention of the final part gets Rufus to pop out and wave at Stuart. "Do well enough and you may find yourself confident enough to make a child with Jessica, my amigo."

"Yeah. Just wish my Dad and her Dad were still around. My Dad to stand with me and her Dad to give her away at the wedding. If they met, I'm sure they'd have gotten along great."

"Well, you could always do what Hirotaka when he got married to Bonnie. Ask Mr Dr P if he'd do the honor. Or rather, she could ask him for you."

"I guess I could. Yeah. Now if only I could get the guts together to call my Mom to let her know what's going on."

"You mean she doesn't know yet?"

"Yeah. We haven't been in steady contact for so long, it's not even funny. Then again, it is her fault that Dad died. If he hadn't been distracted by being distraught over her leaving us, he'd still be alive."

"Stuart, you've got a hurt that needs to be healed. The only way to do that is to face it. Stop running away from it all, man." At that point, they reach their destination, a long-forgotten airport. A 'THD' marked Sky Base waiting for them. With War Bird's rotors turning. "Now that we're here, we can head to the warehouse."

"Groovy." As Rolling Base rolls up into Sky Base, Stuart notices the amount of space they have available and whistles. "I guess it's a good thing you left Sand and Hard Hawk behind. Otherwise we wouldn't be able to carry the load we're about to pick up."

"A very good thing, Lieutenant Argyle." Felix Renton's voice surprises Ron as he turns around and sees his friend.

"Felix, what are you doing here? I thought you and Tara were going to be spending time with your kids."

"Tara's Mom decided she'd babysit the kids while Tara and I went to see Bonnie and Hirotaka. But, when we got there, we saw them leaving their home and followed them to the clearing. From there, Bonnie and Hirotaka gave us a choice. Come along or get our memories erased. I've seen what those blanker rounds do and I do not relish the idea of my head feeling like it's splitting like a cord of firewood."

"Okay. How about Tara?"



"She's with Bonnie in War Bird."

Hirotaka's voice then cuts through the tedium as he says, "Sky Base is ready for the mission of mercy, Ron-san."

"Excellent." Crossing to the communication console, Ron picks up the headset and says, "Okay, Bon-Bon, Tara, we'll fly to the warehouse and get loaded up. In the meantime, you go on ahead and head west. We'll meet up at the outer marker for LA."

"Copy. But I'd feel a lot better if I were there with you all."

"As would I. Problem is however, is that if people see you flying alongside us, they'll piece it together."

"Yeah. Even though this is a one-time gig for us. War Bird out." Tara's giggles in the background cause Ron to roll his eyes.

"Sky Base out." As War Bird lifts off of the ground, Ron turns to Hirotaka and says, "Let's get going."

"Hai." In under two minutes, Sky Base is in the air. Three minutes later, they arrive at the loading point. Along with see an unusual sight. Ron examines it intently before giving his findings.

"Huh. Must be a custom job. Never seen a rig like that before. The top portion of the front of cab looks like a cockpit for an Aerospatiale Gazelle helicopter. With something like rocket boosters on the sides while the bottom half looks like it was pieced together from spare parts. Good colors for it, though. Solid black with grey bottom. Hmm, lettering on it says 'MACK'. Nice one, too."

"Yeah. I'd like a rig like that, too." Felix's statement gets a nod from Ron, along with a slight glare. One that says, 'We're so talking about this later.'

"Yep. Ron, while you and the others get Sky Base loaded, I'll see if I can get hold of my Mom."

"Okay, Stuart. I just hope you can get through without any difficulties."

"Same here." With that, Stuart heads to the communications console while Hirotaka lands Sky Base in front of the loading dock, opening it's rear door in the process. Right beside the unusual-looking rig they'd seen upon arrival.

Before stepping onto the dock, Ron grins and gives the dock workers a nod. "I'm Ron Stoppable, sponsoring a pickup by 'THD' for the food and medical supplies sponsored by 'Chez Ron' for the people of Indonesia."

"Okay. The Thunderbirds already picked up their part, all of which were Medical. Gotta tell you, though, you're still getting a big load to transport. I just hope the aircraft you're with can handle it."

"How big a load are we talking?" Ron gets a wave for him to go up. When he does, he gets a look. Five palettes, six feet high and four feet across. "Holy shit. Looks like 'Chez Ron' paid for at least two planeloads." Smirking lightly, he adds, "Good thing we've got room."



"Looks like you're going to be loading heavy, pal."

The voice from behind gets Ron's attention as he turns around. Upon doing so, he sees a Caucasian man with short cut brown hair and wearing a black leather jacket with black leather pants. Along with a holster carrying a massive firearm on his right thigh.

"Name's Highway."

"Ron Stoppable. Yeah, we're loading heavy, but we've seen worse before."

"You got that right. Jack, my load about ready?"

"Yeah it is, Highway."

"Great. If I'm lucky enough, I should have enough time to help Ronnie here load up. So you may want to get moving so we can be done quicker. Besides, the Marshals Office has nothing pending for me right now."

"Oh, you're a big rig driving Marshal? Badical." The man calling himself 'Highway' gives Ron a wry smirk as he goes on. "Are you with that cool-looking black rig out there?"

"Yep. That it is. I am. All in that order."

"Badical. Though I gotta admit, I've never seen a rig quite like that before."

"Well, it's a custom rig. I mainly prowl the badlands, taking the law to the lawless. On occasion, however, I do deliver or transport loads when work is slow."

"Coolio." Examining the holstered weapon intently, he asks, "What kind of firearm is that, Highway?"

"Semi-auto 12-gauge shotgun, thigh-sized."

"Nice. Thanks again for the help."

"Thank me when we're done." 'Highway' gives the young man a soft chuckle as they head toward a pair of forklifts, intent on starting the loading.

"Jack, let's get the rig and plane loaded so we all can get underway."

"You got it, Highway. Bobby, Bruce, get on the ball! Mr. Stoppable's already ahead of you and he's just starting!"

As Bruce and Bobby get started to keep pace with Ron, if not exceed him, Jack turns around and sees 'Highway' grinning as he moves the forklift around.

"What's so amusing, Highway?"

"Ron Stoppable? Of the former Team Possible? Interesting."



"Yeah, they'd been happily living in obscurity since getting married after Ron got hurt. No one really knows what happened to the team that came up after them or who they were, but they can pretty much agree. Team Hawk sure had the cajones to do what they had to in order to stop any plot they came across. Be it everyday thugs or organized groups like the Sho-Da-Kah. Pity they were decommissioned by the Federal Government."

"I see." As 'Highway' watches Ron operate the forklift with some skill, he thinks, 'Are they really gone, Jack? Or are they simply lying low after being decommissioned because of the Sho-Da-Kah?'

Meanwhile, Stuart is having a very tense conversation with his Mother. Whom he hadn't even called in years.

"Mom, I told you why I haven't called." The voice of Grace Argyle is soft, yet strong enough to make him wince.

"You still could have at least sent a post card on a weekly basis. Something to at least let me know you're alright. Your Father, God rest his soul, did that much on his deployments."

"Don't bring Dad into this, Mom. Lest we forget, you leaving us was the reason why Dad died."

"Stuart, if I hadn't left, I'd have been miserable from your Father being miserable. I married a jet warrior, not a jet teacher. He'd have been miserable teaching young snot-noses like you how to fly."

"You don't know that for sure, Mom." Sighing in exasperation, he goes on. "In any case, the reason why I'm calling is because I'm getting married." Next thing he knows, Grace's excited shriek cause him to move the headset away from his ear. 'Ouch.'

"MARRIED? WHO'S THE LUCKY GIRL? WHEN ARE THE GRANDCHILDREN COMING?"

"Mom, jeez, calm down, will you? We just got engaged last night after a romantic date. You'd probably like her. She's learning to be a school teacher. Her name's Jessica. As for grandchildren, we'll torpedo that ship when we get to it."

An hour and a half later, 'Highway's rig is loaded and Sky Base is readying for take-off with it's load. Luckily enough, 'Highway's experience with loads allowed the team to make the most out of their loading space.

Especially with Rolling Base being at the bottom of the loading bay with their cargo in front and above the van. As they take off, they see 'Highway's rig following. As he drives, 'Highway' gives a light grin, saying, "Good luck to you all and I hope to come across you guys again."

In an introspective manner, he adds, "It's too bad I can't go over there with them. Yeah, sure, Tania would be ticked at me for going out of my jurisdiction, but it'd be worth seeing the Indonesians wearing happy faces. Maybe she'd let me slide once." After pondering it, he sighs and says, "Nah. She wouldn't go for it. Besides, where am I going to find a plane to haul 'Stealth' around at anyway? Not even D.C. Montana has the resources for international transport. Jetto, perhaps. But not D.C."



Five hours later, after meeting at LA's outer marker, War Bird and Sky Base are flying side by side. As they were exiting U.S. airspace, they saw a U.S.C.G. Sea Knight helicopter with a white face on the top of the cockpit. A white face comprised of squares. The helo just let them fly by without questioning them. But they can't help but feel as if it's observing them intently. Even as they flew by.

They are still on course for Indonesia and when they arrive three hours later, they see two familiar forms. All of them grin gleefully upon seeing Thunderbirds 1 and 2 flying over the country. However, their grins quickly fade upon seeing a grey Osprey firing at them both.

"Why is an American aircraft shooting at them?"

"No idea, Kim. But they need fire support and they need it now. Bonnie, Strike Package 'Charlie'. Be careful, the zone is hot."

"You got it, Ron. Thunderbirds 1 and 2, this is War Bird. Dangerous close fire is about to commence. You may want to back away until I get the area calmed down. Flying in hot with twenty mike-mikes."

"FAB, War Bird. Thunderbirds 1 and 2 exiting fire zone."

"Roger that." As War Bird opens fire on the rogue Osprey, Ron opens communication to their friends.

"Thunderbird 2, what in the devil's going on?" The voice of Jeff Tracy comes back just as War Bird opens fire on the Osprey.

"Soon as we started dropping supplies, the Osprey came up and just opened fire on both of us. No communication of any kind whatsoever."

"Well, no need to worry anymore. Fire support's here even if you didn't need it."

"I'm glad to have it, even if it wasn't needed. I'm just happy the butthead didn't bring out SAMs to bring us down."

"Same here. Subject change. Any idea as to when the Hood's trial is?"

"It already happened. Mullion and the Hood were both convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. Three consecutive terms each." The voice has a chuckle as it adds, "Of course, Mullion has a nickname. Courtesy of that concussion grenade that Lieutenant Sagara dropped down his pants, of course."

Tara's voice comes back curious as Bonnie is in the course of firing on the Osprey. "What is it, Thunderbird 2?"

"No Nuts." Jeff Tracy's voice has a hint of amusement within as he says, "Even more, the fact he had advanced testicular cancer didn't make it any less hurtful to him. Next time you see Lieutenant Sagara, please tell him Mullion's nickname."

"Copy that, Thunderbird 2. Will do so." Within two minutes, War Bird's skilled targeting and firing gets the zone calmed down as the Osprey flies off. "Badical shooting, War Bird."



"Thanks, Sky Base. But I don't think we've seen the last of that loser. Tara and I'll keep watch on the perimeter."

"Okay. While the fire's stopped, let's get these supplies dropped off, Thunderbirds."

"FAB, Ron. Thunderbird 2 resuming drop."

"Roger that. Sky Base beginning drop." Directing his attention to Hirotaka and Stuart, he says, "Let's tilt this bad boy's nose up so we can drop off the food and get the Hell out of dodge."

"Roger that." Hirotaka grins at Stuart and says, "Front nose thrusters, angle to 4-5 degrees."

"Roger that. Front nose thrusters, angle to 4-5 degrees."

As they do so, a voice comes over their speakers. "Attention Thunderbirds and retired Team Hawk. This is the junta of Indonesia. You are instructed to cease and desist in your off-loading."

Grinning sharply, Ron retorts, "THD-1 here. Bite me, asshole. We're dropping these supplies whether you bozos like it or not. Even more, we're not who you think we are. Our plane just happens to look like Sky Base. It's just marked differently."

"So you say. Regardless, the people of Indonesia have no need for your pity. Stop what you're doing at once, retired Team Hawk." Ron can only shake his head in exasperation as he sees Kim signaling for him to kill comms. Upon doing so, she gently strokes his cheek.

"Ron, he's persistent."

"So are we, Kim." Returning his attention to the panel, he then brings the comms back up and says, "I don't take orders from lame-brain terrorist sympathizers. The drop is almost complete anyway."

"How dare you! We have no sympathy for terrorists."

"So you say, butt-face."

As the gathered aircraft gently drop supplies to the ground, Bonnie and Tara both keep a watchful eye. Tara on the horizon ahead of them and Bonnie her radar. Bonnie's combat-honed senses start screaming at her and she ducks the helicopter in time to avoid a blast of fire from the Osprey that flew in above her.

"Son of a bitch has got some kind of stealth!" Opening fire with the cannons, she yells out, "You want some, come get some, you loser!"

As sparks fly from the Osprey's fuselage, she grins as she concentrates her firepower on the spot where the fuel tanks would be. The grin, however, quickly fades as she finds herself disappointed the Osprey's not in flames.



"Whoever that thing belongs to must know a thing or two about armor. Because I'm firing a mix of Armor-Piercing and High-Explosive rounds and having no effect." Getting a look at the Osprey as it turns about, Tara makes an addition.

"Aside from making a dent on his ass, that is."

Suddenly, War Bird is rocked by an explosive impact. The rogue Osprey had maneuvered around to her back end rapidly and sent a volley her way.

"Ah! I'm hit! I'm hit!" Next thing she knows, alarms start blaring as the helo goes spiraling and the twin turbines start failing. "Mayday, mayday! This is War Bird! Just took a bad hit on the rear rotor! Losing RPMs and control!"

"War Bird, can you auto-rotate down onto the ground? Or at least onto Sky Base's back?"

"Yeah, I think so on the latter." Another blast rocks the helo, causing her to shriek. "But if this loser keeps it up, We're so a pair of dead ducks!" Next thing she knows, another voice comes up on her comms.

"Hang tight, War Bird! I'll handle this Decepti-creep. If you can, get onto your main transport's back while I handle it."

"War Bird, roger." Bonnie then blinks furiously as she sees a red A-10 Thunderbolt. With a white face comprised of squares on it's nose. A face resembling that on the U.S.C.G. helo on their way out.

'It may be an ugly as hell color, but right now it's the most beautiful sight in my eyes.' As the A-10 opens fire on the Osprey, Bonnie lowers her landing gear as she maneuvers the stricken helicopter. Just as Sky Base makes it's way to her. Both hoping she'd make it before the engine gives out.

Just as they make contact, the Osprey turns tail and runs, the A-10 staying behind in case it comes back for more. When Bonnie feels and hears the emergency brackets on Sky Base latch onto her landing gear, she shudders in relief and lets out a stifled sob as she cuts the twin Lycoming turbines.

'Tara and I so came insanely close to buying the farm!'

"Bonnie, you and Tara okay?" The voice of her husband is welcome to her ears as she lets out a faint smile.

"I am, Hirotaka. Just a little shaken at how close you and Felix came to losing us. Along with the kids coming close to losing their Mother and new sibling."

"As am I, my wife."

Directing his attention to the A-10, Hirotaka says, "Sky Base to unknown A-10, thanks for the assist."

"You're quite welcome. Evac told me about two aircraft exiting U.S. airspace and suggested I tag along, just in case."



Bonnie smiles lightly before asking, "Evac, huh? What's your call-sign, A-10 pilot?"

"Powerglide."

'Powerglide, huh? Unusual, but fitting in a way. After all, this is an unusual world.' Bonnie quickly nods before saying, "Thanks, Powerglide. Give Evac our thanks as well, please. Sky Base, we better set down somewhere so I can make repairs."

"Sure. How does Merida Island sound?"

"Mithril's West Pacific Ocean Fleet Base? Sure. But…" Bonnie's voice trails off before she realizes where Ron's heading with it. "Merida Island is your idea to avoid the press, Ron?"

"Yep. Like I said, properly fully baked and delicious." Bonnie and Tara can't help but wrack their bodies in mirth-filled laughter to distract themselves from their near-brush with death. As their bodies wrack, they hear Ron asking, "So, Powerglide, what'd you mean by 'Decepti-creep', anyway?"

"That was a Decepticon named Incinerator. One of the most despicable spawn to come from the Pits of Cybertron."

Bonnie's laughter tapers off from the last word and she finds herself perplexed. "Cybertron, huh? Don't think I've ever heard of that place."

"No, you wouldn't have, War Bird. As Cybertron is far away from this planet. And long dead."

Tara's eyes bulge out before she asks, "Whoa, whoa, whoa. You mean to tell us that 'Incinerator' guy is from another planet?"

"In your terms, 'In a nutshell'. He is."

Curious, Bonnie asks, "How do you know about that?"

"I'm from the same planet." Powerglide's reply causes Bonnie and Tara's jaws to drop before he goes on. "I'm an Autobot, an opponent to the Decepticons." Powerglide then lightly chuckles as he goes on. "I guess you could say it's been like that for a very long time." Before Bonnie can ask, Ron's voice cuts in. With the same question that was on her mind.

"Just how long is very long, Powerglide?"

"Longer than the Human Race has been around, Sky Base. Far, far longer."

Bonnie can only nod emphatically before asking, "Do you think that loser will be back?"

"Incinerator? No doubt he will return. I landed a few good shots, but he's a quick healer. But you showed true grit in sustaining your fire on his Energon stores. Had you kept it up, you'd have made a hole in there."



"Yeah. And I'd probably have run out of ammo before then. Ron, when we get back home, remind me to call Mr Miles. I want to see if MBS-coated rounds can penetrate the hides of these Decepti-losers."

"Bonnie, us using the air vehicles to do this was a one-time gig, remember?"

"I so don't care, Ron. I so want that loser Incinerator's head on my wall as a fuckin' trophy. If I have to go renegade, I'll get it."

"Yeah, you would." Ron's voice has a light lilt of laughter as he goes on. "I can see it now. Incinerator's head on your wall, his mouth wide open in abject horror."

"Yeah. It'd be so beautiful. So, shall we head to Merida Island so we can begin repairs on War Bird and carry out your 'delicious' plan?" In her mind, she thinks, 'I so can't believe I actually said that!'

"Yeah. Thunderbirds 1 and 2, how flight-capable are you?"

"We're okay. Minor damage to our thrusters, but we can make it back home for Brains and Sandy to look at. Powerglide, Team Hawk, thanks for the assist."

"No sweat, Thunderbirds 1 and 2. Team Hawk, do you require an escort to your destination?"

"I don't see why not, other than not seeing how you can if you don't know where it is."

"I wouldn't be so sure of that, War Bird. One of my fellow Autobots was there some time back with SECDEF Keller. He relayed the coordinates to our leader for the purpose of having friendly relations with Mithril."

"Oh? Who was it?"

"His name's Skylift."

'Another odd name. Oh well. Whatever works, I suppose.'

At that, the two aircraft, stricken helicopter on the roof of one, make their way toward Merida Island. Two hundred miles away. Given the air resistance due to Sky Base's unexpected cargo, Sky Base had to reduce speed. With Powerglide reducing speed as well, intent on protecting both air vehicles in case Incinerator returns. Fortunately, the flight there proceeds without incident.

Upon seeing Merida Island, Stuart switches Sky Base's comms to Merida's frequency and says, "Merida Control, this is Lieutenant Stuart Argyle on Sky Base. I'm declaring an emergency. Requesting clearance to land."

"Welcome back to Merida Island, Lieutenant Argyle. What's your emergency?"

"War Bird's on my back. Tail rotor's shot."

"War Bird's on your back? Are we talking figuratively or literally?"



"Literally."

"Copy that. Sky Base, be advised, you have an A-10 flying alongside you."

"It's cool. He's a friendly. An Autobot named Powerglide."

"Roger that. Powerglide is to land first, with you behind. Upon landing, stop before reaching the hangar so we can get War Bird off your back. Crane's moving out of the hangar now to hoist War Bird off."

"Roger that, Merida Control." Switching back, Stuart says, "Powerglide, you're cleared to land."

"Copy that, Sky Base. See you on the ground." Once Powerglide's landed three minutes later, he says, "Sky Base, come on down. The crane's ready and waiting."

"You got it, Powerglide." Stuart then turns to Hirotaka and Felix before and saying, "Let's land so we can get your wives out of that bird."

"Hai. I just want to hold her in my arms when we land."

"Yeah."

Three minutes later, Sky Base is on the ground and the crane is moving to remove War Bird from it's position. A pair of Mithril mechanics, load-lifting straps on their shoulders, then scurry up a mobile staircase as it's moved to Sky Base's side. Upon getting to War Bird, they pause to check on Bonnie and Tara to ensure they're alright before each taking a side on the helo.

Just as the hook comes down from the crane to just above the helo, they toss one end of their strap to the opposite end. With the mechanic on the opposite side handling the end that arrives at their side. Linking the ends together on their respective straps, they then move so the rear doors can come down.

Bonnie lowers the rear doors on both sides and the mechanics snap the steps into place before positioning themselves. As Bonnie toggles the switches for them, the doors come up, lifting up the mechanics as they hold steadily onto their ends. Upon reaching eye level, they move their ends toward each other while another mechanic stands at a safe distance, guiding the crane's hook down.

Upon the hook's arrival, they quickly put the strap-ends into the hook. They then signal the crane to pick up the slack on the straps while ensuring they stay in place. When the straps are fully taut, they're lowered on the door before signaling it's okay to lift War Bird off Sky Base's back. The emergency clamps then deactivate from around the landing gear.

Within two minutes, War Bird's on the ground and Bonnie and Tara exit the helo, no less shaken from before. As they're embraced by their friends and husbands, the crew uses an aircraft tractor to move the stricken helicopter into the hangar, Sky Base right behind it.

"Oh, Bonnie."



"Hirotaka." With that, Bonnie latches her lips onto Hirotaka's before sobbing in relief. "That was so a close shave." Felix and Tara don't say a thing. For their embrace and kiss are enough for them to express their mutual relief.

"It was indeed, Ms Rockwaller. For you and Mrs Renton both." At the voice, the group turns in time to see Lieutenant Sachs, the maintenance chief for Mithril. "If you'd gone any further with that kind of damage, you wonderful ladies wouldn't be able to snog with your husbands. Or do anything period."

Tentatively, Tara asks, "How bad is it, Lt?"

"Come take a look and see for yourselves." At that, the group follows the chief, but he doesn't say anything until they get to the work area. They all can't help but gulp upon seeing the damage. "Whatever it was that nailed you damaged your tail rotor, Ms Rockwaller. To the point it'd have to be replaced."

"Do you have the parts needed for it?"

"Not here. But I can get them, no sweat. It'll take a day to get them, even less to get them on there."

Before Bonnie can say anything, another voice comes in. "Make it so, chief."

"Aye, Madam Captain." As Sachs ambles away, Teletha Testarossa gives Bonnie and Tara a soft smile before saying, "It's good to see you both alive, Bonnie and Tara."

"Good to be alive, Tessa. Just one thing I wanna know."

"Yes?" Tara jumps in and takes it from there.

"Just how long have you known about these Autobots and Decepticons?"

"The week before last. I take it you heard about the fatal ambush of a Military unit in Afghanistan."

"Pounder Group, yeah." Kim nods before shuddering. "Whoever did it was brutal to say the least."

"An understatement, Kim. A very big one. In any case, it's a good thing you met an Autobot during the flight. Though I'm quite sure you could have done without coming across a Decepticon as well."

"Oh yeah." The simultaneous reply gets Tessa to giggle lightly and shake her head in amusement.

"In any case, I saw the satellite images of you guys and Thunderbirds 1 and 2 over Indonesia. Along with the attack by the Decepticon. I was about to dispatch jet fighters to that location, but it was over before I could even give the order."

"Yeah. You know what I really didn't like about that at all?"

"No, Bonnie. I don't."



"I didn't get to splash that loser bastard. I mean, my rounds had not much effect on him whatsoever." Huffing in irritation, she adds, "At most, I dented him when he should've gone up in smoke. I was even using the standard mix of AP and HE. If only we had more MBS rounds. They might have penetrated his ass and given him an enema."

"I can sympathize with you there, Bonnie. But for now, I should brief all of you in full regarding the situation concerning the Autobots and Decepticons."

"Yeah. That'd be badical, Tessa." With that, Tessa lays it all out. With Ron summing it all up nicely. "That tanks. We're caught up in the middle of an intergalactic grudge match and we're barely able to nail these Decepticons whenever they attack by using high-heat sabots or our standard party mix."

"Correct, Ron. But, Bonnie's idea has some merit." Turning her attention to Bonnie, she asks, "How strong were the rounds coated in MBS?"

"Strong enough to penetrate our suits and the Nordoc NATO armor on Sand Hawk. Along with a heavily-armored big rig coated with MBS. That rig was with the bad guys."

"Ah yes. Simone Prevera and Garthe Knight, the ones that went after Mr Altobelli in Los Angeles. Correct?"

"You got it, Tessa. I wish you could've seen Sandy kick that bitch's ass. From the way she was clobbering her, I'd be tempted to say she held deep contempt toward her for her remarks about Jesse Mach." Ron's words at the end get Jessica's attention, peaking her curiosity. Along with her ire.

"What did that Prevera bitch say about my Dad, Ron?"

"Just that had he still been alive when she got out of Prison, he wouldn't have been for much longer. Along with her being ecstatic that he had been killed." The next voice that speaks up is filled with so much venom, the group looks toward Bonnie, only for her to drop her jaw at who it is.

"If that bitch was still alive, I'd pilot the M6 I piloted against Melissa, grab Prevera in it's hands, and tear her apart slowly! And I mean slowly to the point she'd feel her bones and sinews coming apart! Quite frankly, Ms McCoy was far too lenient with Prevera! Ms McCoy shooting her with your Glock was far too quick, Ron!"

"Sorry about that, Tessa. But there was no way you could have gotten to us in time to tear that bitch apart with an M6. Although that would have been bon-diggity cool."

Tessa smiles at that and softly replies, "I know, Ron. It's just that I'm starting to have mood swings for no apparent reason." Shrugging, she adds, "It's probably just hunger. I haven't been able to get my nourishment lately."

"In that case then, permission to use your kitchen, Captain Testarossa?"



"Granted, Mr Stoppable." Tessa then blinks as a large dust trail comes up from the hallway's clean floor behind Ron's feet. "Okay. How'd he do that?"

"No idea at all, Tessa. I've known Ron ever since Pre-K and he keeps surprising me." Giggling, Kim adds, "Then again, it's really no surprise to me as to how well he pulls off his surprises."

"That makes absolutely no sense at all, Kim." Bonnie considers it before adding, "Then again, it does some kind of logic to it."

Jessica, Tara and Tessa both look at each other and shrug before lightly giggling. Just then, however, Tessa starts feeling slightly woozy and lightly tilts. Catching Kim and Bonnie's attention at the same time as Jessica and Tara's.

"You okay, Tessa?"

"Yes, I am, Bonnie. I'm still lightly walking on a cloud." Kim, Bonnie, Tara and Jessica look at each other and nod before turning to Hirotaka, Felix and Stuart.

"Guys, go see if Ron could use help in the kitchen. We gotta do a little 'girl talk' with Tessa."

"You got it, Jessica. Let's go, Hirotaka."

"Hai." As the guys walk away, Hirotaka gives Stuart a glance from the edge of his right eye and asks, "You know why they did that, right?"

"Yep. So the Captain can spill her guts on why she's floating on a cloud with the ladies. We guys would only ruin it with our presence."

Hirotaka gives Stuart a light smirk as he says, "You are ready for the world of marriage, Argyle-san. I only hope it's ready for you."

"Well, if it ain't, then it's 'SOL'. Big time." Hirotaka's laughter resounds through the hallway as the two reach the kitchen area. While Felix's snickers are barely audible.

Meanwhile, Kim, Bonnie, Jessica, Tara and Tessa are heading for Tessa's quarters on the base. When they get there, Tessa quietly waves them in before entering. Upon closing the door and locking it, she lightly giggles as she does a twirl.

"Somebody's in love and wants to get married." Bonnie's mirthful comment freezes Tessa in place before she giggles again.

"You're quite correct, Bonnie. I am and he's a wonderful guy that lives in Los Angeles."

"What does he do? Tell all, please and thank you."

"Well, Kim, he's an EMT with a SAR crew on the LAFD." Reaching into her blouse, she brings out a small picture and titters lightly. "His name's Daniel Simpson. He's sweet, cute and funny."



"Those are good qualities in a guy."

"Indeed, Tara. Of course, when Lieutenant Sagara took him and one of our newer members for the reconstituted Team Ruby out fishing, Daniel was uneasy."

Blinking, Jessica can't help asking, "Why would he be uneasy about fishing, Tessa? Fishing's quite peaceful and serene."

"Oh sure. At least until Lieutenant Sagara created a variation of the sport." Tessa then giggles fondly, adding, "Stemming from watching the 'Crocodile Dundee' movies, of course."

"Hmm, the only movie of that series I know of with a fishing scene was '2'. But, that was a…" Bonnie's eyes suddenly go wide in shock before she closes them and shakes her head in amused bemusement. "He used grenades, didn't he?"

"Yep. He sure did."

"Only Sousuke can come up with something that messed up. What kind did he use, Tessa?"

"Hmm, I believe he used low-yield concussion grenades, Kim. Of course, our newest Ruby member was wearing an ear-to-ear grin when Daniel and Lieutenant Sagara got back to the apartment complex."

"If he was grinning ear-to-ear, he or she must've been Military at one point."

"Mr Reynolds most certainly was, Jessica. In fact, our newest AS pilot on the SRT is his wife. As of the current time, they're expecting children."

"I'd like to meet them sometime." When Bonnie notices Tessa's mild blanche, she asks, "There's more, isn't there?" At Tessa's nod, she goes on. "It involves Gauron, doesn't it?"

"Only marginally. Our newest pilot was once an assassin raised with her younger twin sister by him after their home in China was destroyed by Amalgam." Giving a light shudder, she adds, "At the battle in the warehouse district in Tokyo, we learned that Gauron had intended to eliminate both of them. Had Leonard not killed the younger twin, we may have had a chance to salvage her with the right conditions."

"How do you mean, Tessa?"

"Love, Kim. She could've been salvaged by love from a nice guy. Like Mei Ling Reynolds, our newest pilot, was."

"Huh?" The unified question in itself prompts Tessa to explain the whole thing.

In the kitchen, Ron's busy whipping up a massive feast when he hears a familiar voice. "Hey, Ronnie!"

"Hey, Kurz. How's it going?"



"Not too shabby." Kurz Weber, Mithril's resident flirt and the best sniper within the ranks, smiles as he watches Ron cook. "Oh man. You have no idea what your cooking does to me."

"From the sound of your voice, I think I can get a pretty good idea." Kurz and Ron both share a chuckle just as Hirotaka, Felix and Stuart arrive. "Hey guys. Where are Tessa and the others?" Stuart, Felix and Hirotaka both look at each other and shrug before giving their reply in unison.

"Girl talk."

"Ah. In any case, the beef and shrimp broth is coming along. Just gotta get the corned beef out of the fridge here. That way, when the broth's done, I can soak the corned beef in there."

"Is it safe? Not doubting you or anything, it's just that I'm not entirely sure it's such a good idea. Besides, where'd you find the broth cubes at anyway. I know we have beef cubes and shrimp cubes. Unless…"

"You got it. I combined them together. Booyahahahaha!"

Kurz can't help but burst out laughing as he shakes his head. While Hirotaka, Felix and Stuart chuckle madly in mirth. Kurz then remembers something important. Just as Ron opens the kitchen's fridge.

"Ron, when you get a chance, please come to my quarters. You can bring Kim if you like."

"It's nothing perverted, is it?"

"Nope. But it is somewhat strange."

"Okay." Once Ron's gotten the corned beef out of the fridge, he checks the broth to ensure it's ready. Sure enough, it is. Gingerly putting the meat into the pot, he smirks and says, "And the rest is up to the man upstairs."

"What is, Ron?" At the sound of Melissa Mao's voice, Ron, Stuart, Felix and Hirotaka smile widely. "Weber, you better not be planning any orgies here on base."

"Nah, babe. Just shooting the breeze with Ron here."

"I see. Ron, is that the only thing this joker's been doing?"

"Yeah. Well, other than wanting Kim and I to meet him in his quarters later on. But he did say it's nothing perverted. Somewhat strange, though."

"I guess that's safe enough. I'm hungry, so I came for my canned crab." Taking a tentative sniff, she smiles before asking, "What are you cooking, Ron?"

"Corned beef with beef and shrimp flavoring. Tessa said she hadn't been eating well lately."

"Well, this is certainly going to change that. Are you sure you can't be here full time? It'd keep you guys active with the SRT. After all, if you can pilot Arm Slaves, then you definitely belong on full-duty."



"Much as we'd like that, Melissa, we can't. We have families at home, our own plans for our lives that were figured out after we were decommissioned. Sorry if that sounds haughty."

Melissa simply waves it off and says, "Nah, don't be. Ron, you and the others did so much good long before Mithril came into your lives."

"Yeah. But, you know what the funny thing is?"

"No, I don't."

"That offer is very tempting. After all, 'THD' is a legit business on paper. So, maybe we can do something under Mithril's parameters. Like a front company of sorts."

"Sounds good. But, who'd be running it though?"

"I'm thinking Stuart."

"Me?"

Snorting incredulously, Ron sarcastically retorts, "No, Stuart Little. Of course you, Stuart." Melissa and Kurz share a chuckle before Ron goes on. With Hirotaka and Felix both lightly snickering in the background.

"After all, you know more about Mithril's procedures than we do. You also know about us. Jessica's going to be a teacher, Bonnie and Hirotaka are going to be Highway Patrol. Felix and Tara are busy with the Thunderbirds. Kim's going to be a badical D.A. and I'm going to be a chef. What do you want to do with your life?"

"He's got a point, Lieutenant. The de Danaan's not going to be at sea all the time. Plus you're madly in love with Jessica. You propose to her yet?"

"Yeah. Last night, Sgt Weber."

"There you go. Plus, if you think of it this way, it can't really hurt you. Opportunities for lunchtime quickies." Stuart's blush tells Kurz all he needs to know. "See? He likes the idea."

"Weber!"

"Time to go! Later Ronnie!" Kurz' laughter as he runs away, with Melissa hot on his heels, cause the four guys remaining behind to sigh.

"Will he never learn it's not a good idea to put ideas like that into other people's heads." Shaking his head, Stuart adds, "Then again, it does sound good. Why don't we talk to Captain Testarossa about it when her food's done?"

"Sure. Thinking of, the soak should be just about done." Bringing up the kitchen's tongs, he puts the ends into the pot to lift out the corned beef. Taking a sniff, he grins and nods. "It's done."



The young blond then puts the food on a platter and a cover onto the platter. As he exits, he starts whistling happily.

Five minutes later, inside Tessa's quarters, Jessica's telling the others with her about when Stuart had proposed to her. Next thing they know, a knock is heard on the door.

"Yes?"

"Food delivery for Captain Testarossa."

Tessa happily chirps out, "Just a minute, Mr Stoppable." Getting up, she crosses to the door and opens it. Smiling at the sight of Ron standing there and grinning with a platter, she says, "Come in."

"Thank you. I hope you like this. Corned beef with beef and shrimp flavoring."

"Hmm, sounds wonderful. You're so lucky you grabbed him when you did, Kim."

"I know, Tessa. Of course, from what you told us about Daniel, you got pretty lucky too."

Tessa lightly giggles before getting a glimpse at Bonnie. "Is something wrong, Bonnie?"

"Are you sure it's such a wise choice having a former Amalgam hitter in your ranks, Tessa?"

"Yes, for two reasons. One, she and her deceased sister were actually against Amalgam. They were just under the ambitions of a psychotic moron that Mr Stoppable and Lieutenant Sagara know all too well."

"Yeah, I'm wondering what the heck that's all about, Tessa."

"How do you mean?"

"Gauron being cloned. I mean, that's sick and wrong to a level that's beyond sick and wrong."

"I agree completely. That's why, when the time comes, we're going after him and any other cloning chambers he may have."

"Okay. So just how do we find this loser psycho?"

"Intelligence is currently poring over the items that Lieutenant Sagara had found in the warehouse the day of the assault, Bonnie. So far, no solid leads."

"So, let me get this straight, until he comes out of whatever closet he's hid in, we're waiting to either get lucky or for another Khanka-level incident to happen."

"Pretty much, Jessica."

"Well, whenever the former may be, I'd like to help on that. I'm sure the others would as well." The resolute nods from everyone else present give Tessa her reply.



"Thanks, Kim. Now, let's see about that corned beef."

That night, Kim and Ron are heading toward the enlisted barracks, intent on seeing Kurz. When they get to the sniper's quarters, they knock on the door. When the door opens, they can see that Kurz has an ear-to-ear grin.

"Hey guys. You're just in time. Come on in." When they're inside, Kurz closes the door and goes on. "Some time after our last mission together in Metro, I went to my family's home in Berlin. I hadn't been there in so long, my old man didn't even recognize me. When he did, he was ecstatic. When I told him I met the Ron Stoppable from Team Possible, his eyes just bugged out."

"Does he know about Mithril? Or Kim and I being part of Team Hawk with Bonnie, Hirotaka and Jessica?"

"Nope. I told him I met you at a writer's conference. In any case, he told me to follow him to my Grandpa's study." Reaching into a pants pocket, he brings out a thin chain with a familiar item at the end. "This was among them."

"How did your Grandfather get hold of a 'Star of David' necklace, Kurz? For that matter, what does this have to do with me?"

"Very good questions, Ron. 1933, before 'Shithead' started the Holocaust, Gunther Weber, my Grandfather, was a writer living in Berlin. One day, he met a Polish writer named Hiram. Gramps had always believed in tolerance and being open-minded. Hiram was Jewish, but Gramps didn't really mind. To him, a person's a person. It didn't matter what the politicians in the Third Reich said. He didn't believe for one bit the Jews were at fault for Germany's defeat in WW1 or 'Shithead's belief of a 'Master Race'. He and Hiram hit it off and got along famously."

Pausing slightly, he goes on. "Hiram just happened to be in Berlin, writing articles regarding anti-Semitism and friendships even in such conditions. But he was pretty discouraged when there was an abundance of the former and scant amounts, if any, of the latter. You with me so far, Ron?"

"Yeah. I think so."

"Great. Fast forward to '42. When 'Shithead' approved what was to be the 'Final Solution' for the Holocaust, Gramps got word of it and found himself ashamed to be German. So, he did what not much of anyone else had done. He told Hiram his life was in danger and that he intended to get him out of there. Hiram, much to his shock, disagreed to leave Berlin. At least without Gramps because he felt that if 'Shithead' had caught wind of a German helping a Jew flee, that German would be in a big mess of trouble."

Kurz then chuckles before he goes on. "Gramps was insistent on Hiram departing. So insistent, he knocked out Hiram and had him smuggled out of Germany before the 'Stupid Screwballs' or the death squads could come knocking around. Looking for Jews to either send to the death camps or shoot on the spot." Kurz can only shake in utter disgust at the thought of murdering innocents for no good reason.



"My Grandpa's first name was Hiram. He often spoke of a man named Gunther. Gunther had him snuck out of Germany and onto a ship. When he first arrived in the States, his last name was Stopaskivia, but they changed it to… holy shit. Your Grandpa knew my Grandpa?"

"Uh-huh. Some time after the 'Final Solution' started, Grandpa received mail from the States. From a man named Hiram Stoppable. At first, he was doubtful, but when he saw familiar writing, he was greatly relieved that Hiram made it safely. Hiram wrote that he was furious at first, but he quickly got over it. He thanked Gramps for getting him out of Germany and sent him the necklace as a memento of their friendship. In turn, they maintained their friendship until Hiram passed away after mentioning he had a grandson in his last letter."

"What happened then, Kurz?"

"Gramps was so inspired by what he did with Hiram, he decided to start an 'Underground Railroad' of sorts, Kim. So, keeping his cards close to his vest, he set about sneaking people out of Germany under the name of 'Germany's Moses'. Altogether, he was able to successfully save 2,000 people from a horrible fate. But, when 'Shithead' got wind of it, he put out a 'death demand' on 'Germany's Moses'. Needless to say, Gramps had quite a few close shaves until 'Shithead' offed himself with his daffy woman in their bunker."

"Kurz, question."

"Shoot, Kim."

"Who's 'Shithead' anyway?"

"Adolf Hitler. Who else? I mean, honestly."

"Okay. Why?"

"Are you kidding me? You ever see his portrait in the history books?" At Kim's nod, he goes on. "His hair doesn't even look like hair."

Kim curiously asks, "What does it look like, Kurz?"

"It looks like an elephant took a big-ass dump on his head and he was too damn stupid to get it off. That, or he liked the end result." Kim and Ron's laughter join Kurz' as they all imagine an elephant doing it's business onto Hitler's head. With Hitler liking the end result.

"I see. That's pretty funny, Kurz."

"Yeah. Shall we drink to our Grandfathers' friendship, Kurz?"

"You read my mind, Ronnie. You know, in a way, it's kinda funny."

"How so, Kurz?"



"In a way, I think we were meant to meet. One way or another. Or maybe it was just pure luck it happened." Kurz can only shrug as he brings up three cans of A&W root beer. "Seeing as you two don't drink, I figured this'd be the best kind of beer to toast with." When all three open their cans, Kurz goes on. "To Hiram and Gunther's friendship under trying circumstances."

Clinking their cans together, they all say, "Hiram and Gunther's friendship." As they take a drink, Kurz lightly smirks before swallowing. Highly curious about something.

"How did Hiram die anyway, Ron?"

"He was in a wreck in San Fran some time after I met Kim."

"Oh! No wonder you were down in the dumps."

"Yeah, Kim. Strange part was, Gramps was meticulous in maintaining his pickup. But, I guess brake failure can happen even after the most stringent checks. Of course, the Inspector investigating it thinks otherwise."

Kurz senses the sadness in Kim and Ron's moods and decides to cheer them up.

"You know, I think Gramps would've liked meeting you and Kim both, Ron."

"How so, Kurz?"

"You're friendly, easygoing and funny as heck. As was Hiram, according to Gramps' journal, anyway. As for Kim, who wouldn't? After all, a world-class heroine like Kim? That would've made his life complete for sure." Ron and Kim both give Kurz a smile before giving their reply.

"We'd have liked meeting him as well."

"Okay, why do you both sound like Kim's younger brothers? For that matter, how've they been, anyway?"

Kim softly smiles before saying, "Ron and I've done that several times in the past. Because we're so well-synced with each other. I guess the Tweebs picked that up from the both of us. As for how they've been, they're alright. Still experimenting, but under Dad's supervision."

"Great. Thinking of, they ever get that mixture they were working on right?"

"Yeah. It took them two weeks to finally get it right. It's now being tested at the Middleton Space Center."

"But, it's been like a year since that time. Why so long?"

"Two words, Kurz. Red-Tape. It's a nightmare getting the politicians in charge to even consider approving of testing. But, a little help from Dad's boss finally paved the way."

"Oh? How'd that happen?"



"She owed us a favor for rescuing her from Drakken and Shego a long time ago. Of course, I didn't ask her for that, but she figured she'd do the favor anyway."

"Shego? You mean Sheila? Sheila Murphy?"

"Yep."

"I see. That explains why Mr Chidori said what he said at Sousuke and Kaname's graduation." Kurz then chuckles and says, "I've gotta hand it to you guys. You sure meet the most interesting people in the most interesting ways. Be it as the former Team Possible, Team Hawk, our auxiliary SRT or your regular everyday people."

"Yeah. We sure do. We even came across a guy in a kick-ass cool rig before we left Middleton."

"Get a name?"

"Yeah. Highway."

"Hmm, one of our survival skills experts knows a guy by that name."

"What's your expert's name?"

"Jetto. He's still a 'Highwayman' as he does the training on a part-time basis." Kim and Ron look at each other before looking back at Kurz. With Ron firing off the question on both their minds.

"Isn't 'Highwayman' another name for road robber?"

"Well yeah, but this is a different kind of 'Highwayman' I'm talking about. The U.S. Marshal's Office has a division named 'Highwayman'. These 'Highwaymen' drive through the badlands in high-tech big rigs, taking the law to the lawless. At times, they scuffle with local law enforcement because of the way they do their jobs. 'Highway' is one of the best 'Highwaymen' in the division."

"Any of them go renegade?"

"I think Jetto mentioned something about one of them going renegade. Not too sure about what happened to him or her, though." Kurz gives a chuckle before adding, "That is, of course, if there are female 'Highwaymen' in the division." Suddenly, Kurz yawns. "I don't know about you two, but I'm beat. Watching over Shinji and Kyoko really took a toll on me. And don't get me started on Sousuke Jr either."

"That bad, huh?"

"Not really, Kim. He's just like his Father and Mother combined. Quiet one minute, loud the next. Pretty unpredictable. All in all though, not a bad experience."

"I so imagine not." Kim's giggles get Kurz to chuckling. Just as the sniper starts yawning. However, the yawn seems to be contagious as Kim and Ron start yawning as well. "Now see what you started?" However, Kim can't help but smile at her question.



Returning the smile, Kurz replies, "I seem to have that effect. Particularly on cute couples like you guys." Checking his watch, he adds, "Better hit the rack. See you guys in the morning for your departure."

"See you tomorrow, Kurz." Upon realizing they spoke at the same time, Kim jumps for it.

"Jinx! You owe me a long passionate night, Ron."

"Now that, I could handle." Kurz' chuckles as they exit his quarters and walk down the hall are audible. Causing Commander Richard Mardukas to shake his head in bemusement.

"Sergeant Weber seems to find amusement in anything. Wonder if he'd find amusement in cleaning the Arm Slaves onboard the Tuatha de Danaan and here on Merida Island. With a toothbrush."

In her quarters, Tessa's sleeping soundly, thoroughly enjoying the images. Until…

Daniel above her, smiling softly as he pumps her. Reaching up to softly stroke his cheek, she suddenly closes her eyes in rapture as she orgasms. As her orgasm ebbs away, she slowly opens her eyes to give Daniel a loving gaze.

Much to her horror, Daniel's not on or in her and she's not naked. But, someone she thought dead is standing there.

"What are you doing here, Leonard? I thought you were dead. Daniel. Where's Daniel?"

"I am, sister." Shaking his head incredulously, Leonard Testarossa continues. "Tessa, you of all people should realize that 'Whispered' belong with 'Whispered'. Not 'mundanes' like your precious 'Daniel' or that merc Sagara. As for 'mundanes', the only place they belong is either at our service or six feet under."

"Lieutenant Sagara may not be a 'Whispered', but he's not mundane. He's exciting and heroic in his own way. Two reasons why Kaname and I were attracted to him. Of course, Kaname got him in the end and I still found my 'Prince Charming'. In an EMT, no less. I only wish I was normal." Smirking meanly, Tessa then asks, "What? Ashamed you didn't find your 'Princess' before you died, Leonard? Upset you had to die as a virgin?"

"I found my 'Princess', but she'd chosen poorly. A savage murderer with no morals."

"If you're referring to Lieutenant Sagara, get this straight. Kaname wanted absolutely nothing to do with you. Now, where's Daniel, you deranged freak?"

"He's right here." Snapping his fingers, an Alastor comes into view, a struggling Daniel in it's grip by his throat.

"Daniel!" Snarling out, Tessa yells out, "Let him go, Leonard! Now!"

"Of course. After I show you what I mean about mundanes."



Snapping his fingers, Leonard adds, "Alastor, carry out my instructions." Wordlessly, the Alastor begins squeezing Daniel's neck as Leonard goes on. "I'll let him go once he's dead." Next thing he knows, a loud crack is heard.

Looking back, he nods in approval upon seeing Daniel's arms at his sides, hanging limp. Looking back toward Tessa, he says, "Your 'Prince Charming' isn't very durable, it seems. Then again, you always did have lousy taste, sister."

"DAN-KUN!"

"DAN-KUN!" Snapping awake and bolting up in a cold sweat, Tessa pants and chokes out a sob. "Only a dream. A dream that went from pleasant to horrible." Getting up from her bed, she crosses over to her communicator and shakily dials a number, hoping Daniel's in and awake. A second later, she hears a groggy voice. A groggy female voice.

"Whoever this is better have a good frackin' reason to be calling this time of night."

Jealously, Tessa asks, "Who the Hell is this?"

"Stephanie Simpson. Who the frack is this?"

I'm Teletha Testarossa. Daniel's girlfriend." Instantly, the voice perks up and Tessa could detect a soft smile within.

"Oh, so you're the girl Dan's been yakking about for the past couple days. My little brother's got good taste from the sound of your voice, Teletha."

Tessa blushes profusely before shaking her head. "I'm terribly sorry, but I need to speak with Daniel. It's very important."

"Yeah, sure. Hold on." Two minutes later, a voice that Tessa's yearned to hear again comes up.

"Tes-chan, you okay?"

"I wish I could, Dan-kun." The concern in Daniel's voice is evident within his next question.

"What's wrong, Tes-chan?"

"I had a bad dream and just wanted to hear your voice."

"Had to be pretty frackin' bad for a call this frackin' time of night. What the frack happened?"

"My brother, my long dead brother, had you killed by an Alastor's hand."

"You had a brother? Wait. What? What happened?"

Sniffling, Tessa replies, "He didn't approve of you. So, he had you killed. He called you a 'mundane', like it was a slur of sorts."



"Jeez, an arrogant asshole like that, I wouldn't be at all surprised if he died a frackin' virgin."

Tessa giggles audibly through her tears as she nods. "I'm pretty sure he did. But, in case he didn't, Kaname made sure to blow away the things that made him a he before she blew his brains out."

"Well, if she's anything like Sousuke, she did the job as completely as possible."

"Well, she's at least a quarter like the Lieutenant, but she did as complete as she could." Daniel's laughter over the communicator is soon joined by Tessa and Stephanie's giggles.

"I'd hate to get on their bad sides. Say, Tes-chan, when's your next leave?"

"Well, there are no pending operations to my knowledge. Of course, terrorists don't exactly have a steady work schedule, so it's a crap shoot."

"That's true. Wait a sec. How about that Mardukas guy that came to see me? Can't he take command when you're indisposed or on leave?"

"Well, he's on the Chain of Command. But all requests for leave have to be approved by Mithril Command personnel. With four days notice."

"Dang. What about emergency leave? Got that?"

"Yes, but only for funerals or other extreme circumstances."

"I think your nightmare more than qualifies as 'extreme circumstances', Tes-chan."

"Well, I could try it, Dan-kun. But I don't know if it'll be approved or not."

"Well, never know until it's tried, Tes-chan."

"Okay. Wish me luck, Dan-kun."

"Good luck, Tes-chan."

"Bye." After his reply, Tessa ends communication and sits down at her terminal. Typing in her information and request for emergency leave, she quickly gets her reply.

Bright and early, the hangar is alive with activity as Kim, Ron and the others head for the twin Turboprop that'll take them to Tokyo. Next thing they know, they hear a voice calling out to them.

"Hey! Wait up, guys!" Turning around, they're stunned to see Tessa wearing a casual business suit and rolling a large suitcase behind her. "This thing's dragging me behind!"

"I better go help her." As Ron goes to Tessa's side, he sees Mardukas and Lieutenant Commander Andrei Kalinin coming up behind Tessa.

"Madam Captain, what is the meaning of this?"



"You're in command until I come off of leave, Mr Mardukas."

"Why go on emergency leave, though? You know it's only for funerals or other extreme circumstances."

"I had a dream that was so bad, it pretty much fell under the category of extreme circumstances."

"I see. It's Mr Simpson, isn't it?"

"Only partly, Mr Mardukas."

"Madam Captain, I…" Mardukas trails off as he feels Kalinin's hand on his shoulder. "Andrei?"

"Enjoy your leave, Madam Captain. Hopefully, no major operations requiring the TDD-1 will arise. Besides, with Lieutenant Argyle on leave for the next two weeks, we're still in dry-dock. His engagement to Miss Mach, however, does present us with a complication. Lieutenant Argyle is the best Air-Boss we have onboard and it'll take months, if not years, to train a backup."

"But, how…"

"You and Miss Mach are wearing engagement rings, Lieutenant. Congratulations." Kalinin gives Stuart and Jessica a soft grin as he adds, "In most respects, you're both like Lieutenant and Mrs Sagara. And, at the same time, not like them. If you catch my drift."

"We do, sir. Thank you." Kalinin gives Jessica a nod as Stuart gives him a salute. Returning the salute, Kalinin then watches the group board the plane, with Ron lugging Tessa's bag behind him. Five minutes later, the plane's taxiing out of the hangar before it reaches takeoff speed.

Once the plane's a speck in the sky, Mardukas asks, "Are you sure it was a wise idea for the Captain to proceed with her leave, Andrei?"

"Of course, Richard. After all, this leave is only to reassure the Captain that her love life will survive. No matter the circumstances." Giving Mardukas a side glance, he adds, "Besides, I heard the Captain scream out in terror last night. No one deserves that kind of agony. Except, perhaps, our foes in Amalgam and other groups of their ilk."

"Good point. I just hope the Captain makes the most of it. Because once she returns, it's back into the grinder for her."

"Ah yes. The grind of memos, operation planning, Intelligence reports, repair forms, inspections and expenditure forms."

"Some days, I wish she was able to lead a normal life, without the blessing or curse of being 'Whispered' over her head. Other times, I'm glad for her because she'd grown quite well in the time we knew her. Even with her being 'Whispered' and all."

"As am I, Richard. As am I."