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Description
Disclaimer: All Kim Possible characters are the copyright of Walt Disney Corporation. I’m just
borrowing them to write up a story with no intention of making any money. This is for fun. All other characters in my stories, that Disney doesn’t own, are mine.

A salute goes to campy for again providing wonderful beta/proofreading for me! (big grin)

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A Bond of Honor
Chapter 5 – Meeting the Squad
By JuPMod (aka JPMod)

Brown eyes surveyed the papers in a folder on his desk. Far as he knew from the information presented before him, there was no denying the truth. The individual mentioned had done a superb job, and he certainly knew what needed to be done.

Those twin orbs rose to take in the two Japanese seated in front of his polished oak desk, before he leaned forward to rest his arms on the desktop with his hand laced together. “From the test results, Mr. Mochizuki, it looks like Miss Takana here aced through most of high school. The test and her grades from Japan reflect highly to her intelligence.”

Master Mochizuki, wearing a gray business suit, kindly grinned. “Thank you, Mr. Barkin. Yori is one of the best students in her class at Yamanouchi.”

Vice-Principal Steve Barkin nodded, as he looked at Yori, who wore a button-up, long-sleeved floral dress, hugging black waist belt, and high heels. He approved of her attire more than the outfit she wore on Friday. The ex-Marine understood the Japanese have a dress code in their high schools, but that school outfit she had worn was cutting too close to being indecent with that skirt to even be worn in public, nevertheless Middleton High.

He again focused on both guests. “She obviously had to be one of the best to achieve the grades shown. Yet, she didn’t quite pass to earn a high school diploma, and furthermore, after consulting our guidance counselors, we agreed that Miss Takana should enter the senior level. Not only for her to earn the final few points needed to earn her diploma but also gain any additional points that could reflect on her resumé if she decides to seek a higher education after high school.”

His brown eyes held Yori’s. “You’ll be starting your classes in September, given it is too late into the current school year to start. That is unless you want to take summer classes to get a head start.”

With gentle grin, Yori shook her head. “I will wait until September, Barkin-sama. For I have other plans this summer to achieve.”

Barkin almost grinned upon hearing the honorary. He knew the ‘sama’ part was her showing respect to him as her elder. It was the first time he was ever called by an honorary, for not even that Hirotaka boy last year called him by an honorary.

“If that is the case, Miss Takana,” the vice-principal said as he closed Yori’s student dossier, “I recommend anytime before September, you stop by so we can go over which classes you should take for the senior year as well as possible suggestions for extracurricular activities.”

Yori simply nodded. Satisfied, Barkin looked back-and-forth between the young girl and her guardian. “Do you have any questions?”

“Hai, I do,” Mochizuki spoke out gaining Barkin’s full attention. “This is Yori-chan’s first time ever living in America. I was hoping she would able to start classes this semester.”

Shaking his head, Barkin frowned. “As I said, it’s too late into the school year for her to even start.”

Master Mochizuki held up a hand and grinned to pacify the vice-principal. “I understand.” He lowered his hand before continuing. “I do suggest this… Yori-chan will attend classes as an observer. She can learn much from how the school functions as well as learn the social behaviors and customs of fellow students.”

Barkin bobbed his head, seeing what the Japanese man was aiming at. “Other words, by observing how we run the school, she’ll be fully ready for classes in September. No need for her to adjust.”

“Precisely,” Yori’s guardian grinned with a small nod.

“That is a sound plan, Mr. Mochizuki,” Barkin admired, yet he slightly shook his head. “Yet we can’t allow anyone going unsupervised in the school. She can’t walk into any class she desires.”

“Again, I understand.” His grin became almost sly, and the ex-military officer knew the Japanese man had yet another suggestion in mind. “I propose a single student in Yori’s senior class to act like a guide to her. She will attend the student’s classes and observe.”

Rubbing his chin, Barkin certainly could see the benefits. “Again, it sounds fine, but we don’t have the time currently to seek out a student from the current junior class to be Miss Takana’s guide.”

Master Mochizuki’s grin widened. “How about the boy that came to Yamanouchi last year during the week exchange program?”

“Stoppable?” Barkin’s eyebrows shot up in surprise as he lowered his hand.

“Hai,” Yori grinned. “I have helped Stoppable-san during his one week at Yamanouchi as his guide. He showed respect and honor to his name, Barkin-sama. Now that I’m here, he can be my guide.”

The gruff vice-principal was taken aback even more by this news, yet he only showed his astonishment for a moment. “Well, I can’t see anything wrong with him being your guide, if you two know each other.” His eyes narrowed a bit. “Just you will not interfere with his education.”

Yori shook her head, her grin still on her face. “I will not interfere. I can help his education, if he desires it.”

“Hmmmm,” Barkin hummed, nodding. “Yes, given your grades, you may be a help to Stoppable.” His face firmed into an expression both Japanese knew was a sign he made his decision. “Very well, Miss Takana. You’ll attend Stoppable’s classes as an observer and he’ll be your guide, and in turn, you can help tutor him, if he desires it. I’ll have to run this suggestion through the principal, but I don’t see any problems of this being rejected.” He raised an eyebrow at Yori. “Do you want to attend classes every day?”

This time Master Mochizuki shook his head. “I suggest three days a week, Mr. Barkin – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.”

“That’s fine with me, Mister Mochizuki,” the ex-marine agreed. “I’ll inform Stoppable of his new duties.” Taking a look at the wall clock, Barkin tapped his desk. “Matter of fact, we can inform him now.”

Confusion etched Yori’s face. “Ron-kun still has classes?” She saw the time was close to 5 PM.

Barkin shook his head. “Negative. Yet I know the practice schedule for our school’s cheerleading squad. They should be finished practicing soon in the gym.”

Master Mochizuki raised an eyebrow, while Yori was surprised. “Ron-kun is a cheerleader?” She knew he hadn’t ever mentioned this to her.

Again, the vice-principal shook his head. “He’s not a cheerleader per se. He’s our school’s mascot.” Again, Yori was floored and Master Mochizuki raised an eyebrow, for this certainly was something new regarding Ron.

Standing up from his chair, Barkin headed toward his office door. “Come. We’ll go to the gym and inform Stoppable, and if they’re still practicing, you’ll able to see what he does as our mascot and how he works with the cheer squad.”

Yori immediately followed Barkin out of the office, trailed by Master Mochizuki. The young girl was eager to see this side of her boyfriend she didn’t know before.

A short amount of time was all it took to stroll to the gym, and the Japanese girl could see it was in a separate building apart from the main school. Upon entering the gym, the first things she spotted were the eight girls doing a synchronized plan of aerobics, cheering, and formations, and seeing Possible-san, she knew the redhead girl was in charge of this group. Yet the individual with a dog mask on his head, working around the girls, caught her attention next and held it. Given the mascot was the only male in the group, it was clear to Yori that he was Ron-kun, and as she watched him perform, she became even more transfixed in wonderment.

The ninja girl always had a strong notion that Ron-kun was not fully using his potential when it came to martial arts. At Yamanouchi, he had shown occasionally he did have the ability, yet during the fight against DNAmy, a little more than a week ago, she saw he hadn’t used his physical skills much at all compared to her and Possible-san. However, Ron-kun presently was able to flawlessly do aerobics and easily at times with just one hand or foot, much like Possible-san, and he was able to do all this with a mask on his head.

Turning her head to look at Master Mochizuki, Yori could see he was well able to see Ron-kun’s capacity. He faced her and gave a raised eyebrow, a sign that told her that he was impressed with the American boy’s potential. Facing the cheer squad once again, Yori watched as the group performed their routine.

Finally, the performance was over, and Kim congratulated everyone for a job well done. Only then did Ron spot the newcomers as he removed his mask. “Uh, KP?” His call made all eight girls focus on him. “We have company,” he pointed and the girls turned to see what he was talking about.

Kim saw Mr. Barkin, but she was taken aback a bit upon seeing Master Mochizuki and Yori. She knew Yori said she was going to find out on Monday her test results, but the ninja hadn’t said anything about coming to school to find out. “Mr. Barkin?” she asked as she and the other members of the squad approached.

“At ease, Possible,” Barkin replied, holding up his hand momentarily to forestall any questions before facing the entire squad. “With the exception of Stoppable, introductions are called for. Ladies,” he gestured to Yori, “this is Yori Takana.” The lithe Japanese placed her hands together, grinned, and bowed slightly toward the group of girls. “She has recently moved to Middleton from Japan, and starting in September, she’ll be your new classmate.”

“It’s my honor to meet you all,” Yori greeted before rising upright. All the girls returned the greeting by introducing themselves. That was for the exception of Kim.

“Hi, Yori,” Kim slightly grinned, crossing her arms. “I didn’t expect you to come to school to be told your test results.”

Yori shook her head a bit. “Just telling the results is not the only thing Barkin-sama needed to say. He also informed me of his suggestions for my education.”

A bushy brown eyebrow rose as the ex-military man quickly eyed back-and-forth between the two girls. “Do you two know each other?”

“Wait a minute!” Hope, the oriental-looking girl of the squad, called out, pointing at Yori. “You were the one that came into the cafeteria during lunchtime last Friday! You sat at Kim and Ron’s table!”

“Hai,” Yori nodded as she grinned, “that I did.”

This news tidbit made Barkin eye Kim. “So you two were already introduced.”

The teenage world-heroine sighed quietly with a small grin. “Yes, we were.” Dropping the grin, Kim gestured to the Japanese girl while still maintaining eye contact with the vice-principal. “So are you giving Yori a tour of the school?”

“Negative, Possible,” Barkin answered before turning to face Ron. “We’re here for Stoppable.” His words made everyone as well eyed the blonde boy.

Holding his Mad Dog mask in his left arm, Ron pointed to himself with his right. “Me?” he asked in bewilderment. He was even unaware that Rufus, who had been watching the cheer practice from the sidelines, had come over and climbed up his body to stand on his right shoulder.

“Stoppable,” Barkin began, “Mr. Mochizuki, Miss Takana’s guardian, suggested that for the remaining school year she attend classes as an observer. This way she can see how the school functions, so by the time she starts school in September, she would be able to fit in easily without any hard adjustments.

“Now I don’t approve of anyone going around the school unsupervised, thus Mr. Mochizuki advised that a student in Miss Takana’s class be a guide to her. She attends that student’s classes three days a week – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and since you and Takana already know each other, you are the best person for the job to help her.”

Blinking, Ron again pointed to himself. “Me?” His brown eyes caught the dark ones of his girlfriend. “You want me to be your guide, Yori?”

Smiling affectionately, the nimble girl nodded once. “Hai. I trust you, Ron-kun, for you know more about this school than me. Will you be my guide?”

Looking into her warm, expressive face, Ron felt his lips curl into a warm smile to match hers. How could he say no to helping someone he cared for? He gentlemanly bowed to her before replying. “Yori, it’ll be my honor to be your guide to the bon-diggity world of Middleton High.”

Yori giggled at his words, and even Kim and some of the other girls of the squad couldn’t help but to chuckle as well. “Being poetic, Ron-kun?”

He gave a mock-smug look. “Yeah, I’m thinking of whether I can write up romantic poems to speak at next year’s talent show.” Again, Yori giggled, while Kim smirked and shook her head at his antics.

Bonnie was the only one in the group not grinning. She just couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Here was a beautiful Far Eastern girl flirting with Stoppable of all people. And the way they were eying each other, it showed that they were… No, it couldn’t be!

“Exactly what does Stoppable mean to you?” Bonnie asked as she pointed to Ron but focused on Yori.

Yori blinked with surprised at first before giving a small grin. “He’s my boyfriend, Rockwaller-san.”

“SAY WHAT?” all the girls of the squad cried out flabbergasted except for Kim. As one, they turned wide-eyed expressions from Yori to Ron, who simply grinned slightly.

Shaking her head, Bonnie still couldn’t believe it. “How could you date a loser like him?”

Again, Yori blinked, but this time out of confusion. “I do not understand you, Rockwaller-san. Ron-kun is honorable, kind, brave, and good. I do not see him as a loser.”

Undeterred, Bonnie pressed on. “He is a loser. He’s stupid, a pig, lazy, and at times, just doesn’t know what he is doing. He’s on the low end of the social ladder of this school. You should be dating someone else than him.”

Vice-principal Barkin was about to say something to intervene when he felt a strong hand on his left arm. Turning his head, he faced Mr. Mochizuki, who gave a stern, small shake of his head. The message was clear… Don’t interfere. Barkin remained silent as he returned to watch the trade of barbs along with the other transfixed members of the cheer squad.

Feeling her ire rise, Yori narrowed her eyes at the bronze-skinned girl. “Only I choose whomever I choose to date, Rockwaller-sama.” The emphasis on the honorary told everyone the Japanese girl had meant it sarcastically. “I’ve been told in Japan that it’s not what others say about you that defines your life, but what you do with your life that defines you.” She raised an eyebrow. “What has Ron-kun done to make him a loser in your eyes?”

Bonnie incredulously stared at the Japanese girl. “Were you listening to what I said? He’s a pig! He’s lazy! He’s nothing!”

“So you say, Rockwaller-sama,” Yori quickly responded, her face still showed contempt for this girl before her. “Tell me... Did you ever help Possible-san on any of her missions to help others?”

The cheer squad’s second-in-command eyed the leader a bit wearily. “Yeah, I did once.”

“Only because we were stuck together, Bonnie,” Kim pointed out. “You didn’t ever volunteer to help me before or afterward.”

Yori pressed on before Bonnie could respond. “Ron-kun has always helped Possible-san. He risked his life to help others throughout the world. He fought against those who’d wanted to dominate others. His actions to help Possible-san greatly display his noble deeds and his generous heart.” She took a few steps to place her face nearly nose-to-nose with the brown-haired cheerleader. “Tell me, Rockwaller-sama… What have you done with your life to ever measure against what Ron-kun done for the world?”

She was trapped, and she knew it, for she couldn’t come up with anything to say against what the Japanese girl had mentioned. “He’s still a loser,” Bonnie whispered harshly into Yori’s face, “and so are you.” With that, Bonnie turned around and stormed off toward the girls’ locker room.

The cheer squad stared dumbfounded after their defeated team member, and only after Bonnie entered the changing room did they all turn to face Yori.

“That was amazing,” Jessica, the blonde cheerleader, said in awe. “No one’s ever gotten one over Bonnie like that.” Except for Kim and Ron, who only smiled proudly at his girlfriend, the entire squad broke out in amazed praise in agreement with Jessica.

Yori gave a small grin in acceptance of the admiration bestowed on her. “I simply spoke the truth.”

“Nevertheless, Takana,” Barkin spoken up as he stepped forward, “the girls are right that you have done what very few in this school ever could do, beat Rockwaller at her own game. I say you should join the school’s debate team when you start in September.” Jessica and the others agreed highly, again making Yori grin as a small blush crept onto her cheeks at such high endorsements.

As the girls nearly half-circled around Yori, asking her questions, Kim held back, still stunned at what had happened. Her rivalry with Bonnie was well known, and even she knew that Bonnie could manage to win occasionally over her, making her angry and resentful of losing to the cocky girl. Yori, on the other hand, didn’t rise to the bait, for instead, she lured Bonnie into a trap that made her look like a fool, and the ninja girl did so all in protecting Ron’s name. Kim knew she had fought Bonnie before in helping Ron, but nothing on the level Yori did.

Seeing the conversation was taking too long to wind down, Mr. Barkin cleared his throat loudly to gain everyone’s attention. “All right, girls. You will all have a chance another time to talk with Takana. Right now, you all should go change and head home.”

Agreeing, the squad, except Ron, turned to head toward the girls’ locker room. Kim however looked back to see Ron was hanging back a bit, and she knew he wanted to speak to Yori privately.

Still smiling proudly, Ron eyed his girlfriend fondly. “Yori… What you’ve done for me…”

Yori gently shook her head at him, smiling affectionately. “As I said, Ron-kun, I simply spoke the truth. You are not a loser, given your generous heart.” Her smile faded into a worrisome face. “Do you actually believe her?”

Ron sadly smirked. “I used to, but in the past year, I’ve learned that I live my life as I see fit.” He shrugged. “Bonnie is Bonnie. She has always been that way.”

Just then the door to the girls’ locker room opened and Bonnie walked out and nearly marched across the gym toward the exit. Along the way, she glared at Yori, who only narrowed her eyes in return.

When Bonnie left, Ron frowned as Yori returned to look at him. “I hope you’re not going to let her get to you, Yori.”

“I certainly will not, Ron-kun,” she retorted. “She is not worth it.” Her lips curled into sly grin. “You, on the other hand, are definitely worth it.”

Feeling his cheeks burning, Ron boyishly grinned. “Aw, come on, Yori, stop making me blush!”
Rufus snickered, while Yori giggled.

“So,” Ron felt a need to change the subject, “what are you doing now? Want to hang out at Bueno Nacho or something?”

This time Yori sadly grinned. “I have to return home, Ron-kun, and tomorrow, I’ll be quite busy.”

The blonde boy caught her meaning. She would be too busy with her training tomorrow to do anything social, yet an idea came to his head. “Mr. B?” He turned to face his gruff teacher. “When could Yori start coming to school to observe?”

Barkin thought about it just for a moment. “If Takana doesn’t mind, she could start this Wednesday.”

Smiling in triumph, Ron faced Yori to see her smiling widely at him. “I’ll see you Wednesday morning, Ron-kun.”

“Booyah,” he whispered, eyes showing his affection for her.

What happened next surprised him. Ron thought she would kiss him on the cheek as she had done before, but instead, Yori reached up to give a quick, yet firm smooch on the lips. A smooch that he knew conveyed her feelings for him.

As a smiling Yori, with pink cheeks, walked away, Ron’s lips slowly formed a loving smirk as he wobbly stood on his legs, watching her retreating backside. He didn’t notice Master Mochizuki follow Yori yet only after giving an approving grin at the young man. Once the ninja girl reached the far side of the gym, she looked back toward her suitor and gave one final loving grin at him before leaving the building with her guardian right behind her.

Once Yori was gone, Rufus turned to look at his owner to see him still in a loving daze. The mole rat rapped a fist against Ron’s head, not able to break him out of his trance. Rolling his eyes, Rufus smirked and shook his tiny head. “Oh, brother.”

Barkin had to admit that Stoppable’s pet had a point, for the boy certainly had it bad. However, he didn’t want to see the teen standing there forever. “Stoppable!” he yelled in his best drill-sergeant voice.

“What!” Ron cried out, breaking out of his spell.

The ex-marine shook his head at his student. “Stoppable, go change and get out of here,” he thumbed over his shoulder toward the exit.

“Right, Mr. B!” Ron smiled at the vice-principal with a pointing right finger as he backed up toward the boys’ locker room. “Got’cha, Mr. B! No prob, Mr. B!” Holding his Mad Dog mask in his left arm, the blonde teen swiveled on one foot and began walking to the locker, whistling happily along the way.

As Ron strolled out of sight, Mr. Barkin shook his head again at such a display before departing the gym himself. In all the time he had known Stoppable, he had not ever seen the boy so smitten with anyone. Maybe this might transform the young man into something better. Then again, knowing Stoppable, Barkin kept thinking about that song. The one titled “Why Do Fools Fall In Love.”

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TBC (End of Chapter 5)

A/N: Just to want to thank Classic Cowboy for creating that wise saying regarding that it is what one does with his/her life that defines the person. It’s off his incredible “The Batman” KP fanfic. If you haven’t read his “The Batman,” I highly recommend it. Read it over at FF.net.

:) (Smile) — Description
Disclaimer: All Kim Possible characters are the copyright of Walt Disney Corporation. I’m just
borrowing them to write up a story with no intention of making any money. This is for fun. All other characters in my stories, that Disney doesn’t own, are mine.

A salute goes to campy for again providing wonderful beta/proofreading for me! (big grin)

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A Bond of Honor
Chapter 5 – Meeting the Squad
By JuPMod (aka JPMod)

Brown eyes surveyed the papers in a folder on his desk. Far as he knew from the information presented before him, there was no denying the truth. The individual mentioned had done a superb job, and he certainly knew what needed to be done.

Those twin orbs rose to take in the two Japanese seated in front of his polished oak desk, before he leaned forward to rest his arms on the desktop with his hand laced together. “From the test results, Mr. Mochizuki, it looks like Miss Takana here aced through most of high school. The test and her grades from Japan reflect highly to her intelligence.”

Master Mochizuki, wearing a gray business suit, kindly grinned. “Thank you, Mr. Barkin. Yori is one of the best students in her class at Yamanouchi.”

Vice-Principal Steve Barkin nodded, as he looked at Yori, who wore a button-up, long-sleeved floral dress, hugging black waist belt, and high heels. He approved of her attire more than the outfit she wore on Friday. The ex-Marine understood the Japanese have a dress code in their high schools, but that school outfit she had worn was cutting too close to being indecent with that skirt to even be worn in public, nevertheless Middleton High.

He again focused on both guests. “She obviously had to be one of the best to achieve the grades shown. Yet, she didn’t quite pass to earn a high school diploma, and furthermore, after consulting our guidance counselors, we agreed that Miss Takana should enter the senior level. Not only for her to earn the final few points needed to earn her diploma but also gain any additional points that could reflect on her resumé if she decides to seek a higher education after high school.”

His brown eyes held Yori’s. “You’ll be starting your classes in September, given it is too late into the current school year to start. That is unless you want to take summer classes to get a head start.”

With gentle grin, Yori shook her head. “I will wait until September, Barkin-sama. For I have other plans this summer to achieve.”

Barkin almost grinned upon hearing the honorary. He knew the ‘sama’ part was her showing respect to him as her elder. It was the first time he was ever called by an honorary, for not even that Hirotaka boy last year called him by an honorary.

“If that is the case, Miss Takana,” the vice-principal said as he closed Yori’s student dossier, “I recommend anytime before September, you stop by so we can go over which classes you should take for the senior year as well as possible suggestions for extracurricular activities.”

Yori simply nodded. Satisfied, Barkin looked back-and-forth between the young girl and her guardian. “Do you have any questions?”

“Hai, I do,” Mochizuki spoke out gaining Barkin’s full attention. “This is Yori-chan’s first time ever living in America. I was hoping she would able to start classes this semester.”

Shaking his head, Barkin frowned. “As I said, it’s too late into the school year for her to even start.”

Master Mochizuki held up a hand and grinned to pacify the vice-principal. “I understand.” He lowered his hand before continuing. “I do suggest this… Yori-chan will attend classes as an observer. She can learn much from how the school functions as well as learn the social behaviors and customs of fellow students.”

Barkin bobbed his head, seeing what the Japanese man was aiming at. “Other words, by observing how we run the school, she’ll be fully ready for classes in September. No need for her to adjust.”

“Precisely,” Yori’s guardian grinned with a small nod.

“That is a sound plan, Mr. Mochizuki,” Barkin admired, yet he slightly shook his head. “Yet we can’t allow anyone going unsupervised in the school. She can’t walk into any class she desires.”

“Again, I understand.” His grin became almost sly, and the ex-military officer knew the Japanese man had yet another suggestion in mind. “I propose a single student in Yori’s senior class to act like a guide to her. She will attend the student’s classes and observe.”

Rubbing his chin, Barkin certainly could see the benefits. “Again, it sounds fine, but we don’t have the time currently to seek out a student from the current junior class to be Miss Takana’s guide.”

Master Mochizuki’s grin widened. “How about the boy that came to Yamanouchi last year during the week exchange program?”

“Stoppable?” Barkin’s eyebrows shot up in surprise as he lowered his hand.

“Hai,” Yori grinned. “I have helped Stoppable-san during his one week at Yamanouchi as his guide. He showed respect and honor to his name, Barkin-sama. Now that I’m here, he can be my guide.”

The gruff vice-principal was taken aback even more by this news, yet he only showed his astonishment for a moment. “Well, I can’t see anything wrong with him being your guide, if you two know each other.” His eyes narrowed a bit. “Just you will not interfere with his education.”

Yori shook her head, her grin still on her face. “I will not interfere. I can help his education, if he desires it.”

“Hmmmm,” Barkin hummed, nodding. “Yes, given your grades, you may be a help to Stoppable.” His face firmed into an expression both Japanese knew was a sign he made his decision. “Very well, Miss Takana. You’ll attend Stoppable’s classes as an observer and he’ll be your guide, and in turn, you can help tutor him, if he desires it. I’ll have to run this suggestion through the principal, but I don’t see any problems of this being rejected.” He raised an eyebrow at Yori. “Do you want to attend classes every day?”

This time Master Mochizuki shook his head. “I suggest three days a week, Mr. Barkin – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.”

“That’s fine with me, Mister Mochizuki,” the ex-marine agreed. “I’ll inform Stoppable of his new duties.” Taking a look at the wall clock, Barkin tapped his desk. “Matter of fact, we can inform him now.”

Confusion etched Yori’s face. “Ron-kun still has classes?” She saw the time was close to 5 PM.

Barkin shook his head. “Negative. Yet I know the practice schedule for our school’s cheerleading squad. They should be finished practicing soon in the gym.”

Master Mochizuki raised an eyebrow, while Yori was surprised. “Ron-kun is a cheerleader?” She knew he hadn’t ever mentioned this to her.

Again, the vice-principal shook his head. “He’s not a cheerleader per se. He’s our school’s mascot.” Again, Yori was floored and Master Mochizuki raised an eyebrow, for this certainly was something new regarding Ron.

Standing up from his chair, Barkin headed toward his office door. “Come. We’ll go to the gym and inform Stoppable, and if they’re still practicing, you’ll able to see what he does as our mascot and how he works with the cheer squad.”

Yori immediately followed Barkin out of the office, trailed by Master Mochizuki. The young girl was eager to see this side of her boyfriend she didn’t know before.

A short amount of time was all it took to stroll to the gym, and the Japanese girl could see it was in a separate building apart from the main school. Upon entering the gym, the first things she spotted were the eight girls doing a synchronized plan of aerobics, cheering, and formations, and seeing Possible-san, she knew the redhead girl was in charge of this group. Yet the individual with a dog mask on his head, working around the girls, caught her attention next and held it. Given the mascot was the only male in the group, it was clear to Yori that he was Ron-kun, and as she watched him perform, she became even more transfixed in wonderment.

The ninja girl always had a strong notion that Ron-kun was not fully using his potential when it came to martial arts. At Yamanouchi, he had shown occasionally he did have the ability, yet during the fight against DNAmy, a little more than a week ago, she saw he hadn’t used his physical skills much at all compared to her and Possible-san. However, Ron-kun presently was able to flawlessly do aerobics and easily at times with just one hand or foot, much like Possible-san, and he was able to do all this with a mask on his head.

Turning her head to look at Master Mochizuki, Yori could see he was well able to see Ron-kun’s capacity. He faced her and gave a raised eyebrow, a sign that told her that he was impressed with the American boy’s potential. Facing the cheer squad once again, Yori watched as the group performed their routine.

Finally, the performance was over, and Kim congratulated everyone for a job well done. Only then did Ron spot the newcomers as he removed his mask. “Uh, KP?” His call made all eight girls focus on him. “We have company,” he pointed and the girls turned to see what he was talking about.

Kim saw Mr. Barkin, but she was taken aback a bit upon seeing Master Mochizuki and Yori. She knew Yori said she was going to find out on Monday her test results, but the ninja hadn’t said anything about coming to school to find out. “Mr. Barkin?” she asked as she and the other members of the squad approached.

“At ease, Possible,” Barkin replied, holding up his hand momentarily to forestall any questions before facing the entire squad. “With the exception of Stoppable, introductions are called for. Ladies,” he gestured to Yori, “this is Yori Takana.” The lithe Japanese placed her hands together, grinned, and bowed slightly toward the group of girls. “She has recently moved to Middleton from Japan, and starting in September, she’ll be your new classmate.”

“It’s my honor to meet you all,” Yori greeted before rising upright. All the girls returned the greeting by introducing themselves. That was for the exception of Kim.

“Hi, Yori,” Kim slightly grinned, crossing her arms. “I didn’t expect you to come to school to be told your test results.”

Yori shook her head a bit. “Just telling the results is not the only thing Barkin-sama needed to say. He also informed me of his suggestions for my education.”

A bushy brown eyebrow rose as the ex-military man quickly eyed back-and-forth between the two girls. “Do you two know each other?”

“Wait a minute!” Hope, the oriental-looking girl of the squad, called out, pointing at Yori. “You were the one that came into the cafeteria during lunchtime last Friday! You sat at Kim and Ron’s table!”

“Hai,” Yori nodded as she grinned, “that I did.”

This news tidbit made Barkin eye Kim. “So you two were already introduced.”

The teenage world-heroine sighed quietly with a small grin. “Yes, we were.” Dropping the grin, Kim gestured to the Japanese girl while still maintaining eye contact with the vice-principal. “So are you giving Yori a tour of the school?”

“Negative, Possible,” Barkin answered before turning to face Ron. “We’re here for Stoppable.” His words made everyone as well eyed the blonde boy.

Holding his Mad Dog mask in his left arm, Ron pointed to himself with his right. “Me?” he asked in bewilderment. He was even unaware that Rufus, who had been watching the cheer practice from the sidelines, had come over and climbed up his body to stand on his right shoulder.

“Stoppable,” Barkin began, “Mr. Mochizuki, Miss Takana’s guardian, suggested that for the remaining school year she attend classes as an observer. This way she can see how the school functions, so by the time she starts school in September, she would be able to fit in easily without any hard adjustments.

“Now I don’t approve of anyone going around the school unsupervised, thus Mr. Mochizuki advised that a student in Miss Takana’s class be a guide to her. She attends that student’s classes three days a week – Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and since you and Takana already know each other, you are the best person for the job to help her.”

Blinking, Ron again pointed to himself. “Me?” His brown eyes caught the dark ones of his girlfriend. “You want me to be your guide, Yori?”

Smiling affectionately, the nimble girl nodded once. “Hai. I trust you, Ron-kun, for you know more about this school than me. Will you be my guide?”

Looking into her warm, expressive face, Ron felt his lips curl into a warm smile to match hers. How could he say no to helping someone he cared for? He gentlemanly bowed to her before replying. “Yori, it’ll be my honor to be your guide to the bon-diggity world of Middleton High.”

Yori giggled at his words, and even Kim and some of the other girls of the squad couldn’t help but to chuckle as well. “Being poetic, Ron-kun?”

He gave a mock-smug look. “Yeah, I’m thinking of whether I can write up romantic poems to speak at next year’s talent show.” Again, Yori giggled, while Kim smirked and shook her head at his antics.

Bonnie was the only one in the group not grinning. She just couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Here was a beautiful Far Eastern girl flirting with Stoppable of all people. And the way they were eying each other, it showed that they were… No, it couldn’t be!

“Exactly what does Stoppable mean to you?” Bonnie asked as she pointed to Ron but focused on Yori.

Yori blinked with surprised at first before giving a small grin. “He’s my boyfriend, Rockwaller-san.”

“SAY WHAT?” all the girls of the squad cried out flabbergasted except for Kim. As one, they turned wide-eyed expressions from Yori to Ron, who simply grinned slightly.

Shaking her head, Bonnie still couldn’t believe it. “How could you date a loser like him?”

Again, Yori blinked, but this time out of confusion. “I do not understand you, Rockwaller-san. Ron-kun is honorable, kind, brave, and good. I do not see him as a loser.”

Undeterred, Bonnie pressed on. “He is a loser. He’s stupid, a pig, lazy, and at times, just doesn’t know what he is doing. He’s on the low end of the social ladder of this school. You should be dating someone else than him.”

Vice-principal Barkin was about to say something to intervene when he felt a strong hand on his left arm. Turning his head, he faced Mr. Mochizuki, who gave a stern, small shake of his head. The message was clear… Don’t interfere. Barkin remained silent as he returned to watch the trade of barbs along with the other transfixed members of the cheer squad.

Feeling her ire rise, Yori narrowed her eyes at the bronze-skinned girl. “Only I choose whomever I choose to date, Rockwaller-sama.” The emphasis on the honorary told everyone the Japanese girl had meant it sarcastically. “I’ve been told in Japan that it’s not what others say about you that defines your life, but what you do with your life that defines you.” She raised an eyebrow. “What has Ron-kun done to make him a loser in your eyes?”

Bonnie incredulously stared at the Japanese girl. “Were you listening to what I said? He’s a pig! He’s lazy! He’s nothing!”

“So you say, Rockwaller-sama,” Yori quickly responded, her face still showed contempt for this girl before her. “Tell me... Did you ever help Possible-san on any of her missions to help others?”

The cheer squad’s second-in-command eyed the leader a bit wearily. “Yeah, I did once.”

“Only because we were stuck together, Bonnie,” Kim pointed out. “You didn’t ever volunteer to help me before or afterward.”

Yori pressed on before Bonnie could respond. “Ron-kun has always helped Possible-san. He risked his life to help others throughout the world. He fought against those who’d wanted to dominate others. His actions to help Possible-san greatly display his noble deeds and his generous heart.” She took a few steps to place her face nearly nose-to-nose with the brown-haired cheerleader. “Tell me, Rockwaller-sama… What have you done with your life to ever measure against what Ron-kun done for the world?”

She was trapped, and she knew it, for she couldn’t come up with anything to say against what the Japanese girl had mentioned. “He’s still a loser,” Bonnie whispered harshly into Yori’s face, “and so are you.” With that, Bonnie turned around and stormed off toward the girls’ locker room.

The cheer squad stared dumbfounded after their defeated team member, and only after Bonnie entered the changing room did they all turn to face Yori.

“That was amazing,” Jessica, the blonde cheerleader, said in awe. “No one’s ever gotten one over Bonnie like that.” Except for Kim and Ron, who only smiled proudly at his girlfriend, the entire squad broke out in amazed praise in agreement with Jessica.

Yori gave a small grin in acceptance of the admiration bestowed on her. “I simply spoke the truth.”

“Nevertheless, Takana,” Barkin spoken up as he stepped forward, “the girls are right that you have done what very few in this school ever could do, beat Rockwaller at her own game. I say you should join the school’s debate team when you start in September.” Jessica and the others agreed highly, again making Yori grin as a small blush crept onto her cheeks at such high endorsements.

As the girls nearly half-circled around Yori, asking her questions, Kim held back, still stunned at what had happened. Her rivalry with Bonnie was well known, and even she knew that Bonnie could manage to win occasionally over her, making her angry and resentful of losing to the cocky girl. Yori, on the other hand, didn’t rise to the bait, for instead, she lured Bonnie into a trap that made her look like a fool, and the ninja girl did so all in protecting Ron’s name. Kim knew she had fought Bonnie before in helping Ron, but nothing on the level Yori did.

Seeing the conversation was taking too long to wind down, Mr. Barkin cleared his throat loudly to gain everyone’s attention. “All right, girls. You will all have a chance another time to talk with Takana. Right now, you all should go change and head home.”

Agreeing, the squad, except Ron, turned to head toward the girls’ locker room. Kim however looked back to see Ron was hanging back a bit, and she knew he wanted to speak to Yori privately.

Still smiling proudly, Ron eyed his girlfriend fondly. “Yori… What you’ve done for me…”

Yori gently shook her head at him, smiling affectionately. “As I said, Ron-kun, I simply spoke the truth. You are not a loser, given your generous heart.” Her smile faded into a worrisome face. “Do you actually believe her?”

Ron sadly smirked. “I used to, but in the past year, I’ve learned that I live my life as I see fit.” He shrugged. “Bonnie is Bonnie. She has always been that way.”

Just then the door to the girls’ locker room opened and Bonnie walked out and nearly marched across the gym toward the exit. Along the way, she glared at Yori, who only narrowed her eyes in return.

When Bonnie left, Ron frowned as Yori returned to look at him. “I hope you’re not going to let her get to you, Yori.”

“I certainly will not, Ron-kun,” she retorted. “She is not worth it.” Her lips curled into sly grin. “You, on the other hand, are definitely worth it.”

Feeling his cheeks burning, Ron boyishly grinned. “Aw, come on, Yori, stop making me blush!”
Rufus snickered, while Yori giggled.

“So,” Ron felt a need to change the subject, “what are you doing now? Want to hang out at Bueno Nacho or something?”

This time Yori sadly grinned. “I have to return home, Ron-kun, and tomorrow, I’ll be quite busy.”

The blonde boy caught her meaning. She would be too busy with her training tomorrow to do anything social, yet an idea came to his head. “Mr. B?” He turned to face his gruff teacher. “When could Yori start coming to school to observe?”

Barkin thought about it just for a moment. “If Takana doesn’t mind, she could start this Wednesday.”

Smiling in triumph, Ron faced Yori to see her smiling widely at him. “I’ll see you Wednesday morning, Ron-kun.”

“Booyah,” he whispered, eyes showing his affection for her.

What happened next surprised him. Ron thought she would kiss him on the cheek as she had done before, but instead, Yori reached up to give a quick, yet firm smooch on the lips. A smooch that he knew conveyed her feelings for him.

As a smiling Yori, with pink cheeks, walked away, Ron’s lips slowly formed a loving smirk as he wobbly stood on his legs, watching her retreating backside. He didn’t notice Master Mochizuki follow Yori yet only after giving an approving grin at the young man. Once the ninja girl reached the far side of the gym, she looked back toward her suitor and gave one final loving grin at him before leaving the building with her guardian right behind her.

Once Yori was gone, Rufus turned to look at his owner to see him still in a loving daze. The mole rat rapped a fist against Ron’s head, not able to break him out of his trance. Rolling his eyes, Rufus smirked and shook his tiny head. “Oh, brother.”

Barkin had to admit that Stoppable’s pet had a point, for the boy certainly had it bad. However, he didn’t want to see the teen standing there forever. “Stoppable!” he yelled in his best drill-sergeant voice.

“What!” Ron cried out, breaking out of his spell.

The ex-marine shook his head at his student. “Stoppable, go change and get out of here,” he thumbed over his shoulder toward the exit.

“Right, Mr. B!” Ron smiled at the vice-principal with a pointing right finger as he backed up toward the boys’ locker room. “Got’cha, Mr. B! No prob, Mr. B!” Holding his Mad Dog mask in his left arm, the blonde teen swiveled on one foot and began walking to the locker, whistling happily along the way.

As Ron strolled out of sight, Mr. Barkin shook his head again at such a display before departing the gym himself. In all the time he had known Stoppable, he had not ever seen the boy so smitten with anyone. Maybe this might transform the young man into something better. Then again, knowing Stoppable, Barkin kept thinking about that song. The one titled “Why Do Fools Fall In Love.”

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TBC (End of Chapter 5)

A/N: Just to want to thank Classic Cowboy for creating that wise saying regarding that it is what one does with his/her life that defines the person. It’s off his incredible “The Batman” KP fanfic. If you haven’t read his “The Batman,” I highly recommend it. Read it over at FF.net.