Barefoot Heroines, Part V

LS enlists the aid of new friends to help her fight a corrupt politician

By Mongoose750 (mongoose750@yahoo.com)

Meanwhile, on seemingly the other end of the world, the men have gathered at the house where Lewis was staying, this time surprising him with bringing what they considered "man food," with big rib eye steaks, and assorted items that goes with it. The master chef was more than pleased to prepare the meal. After the meal was over, the men slumped in their chairs and couches speaking high praise of the feast. After Kevin left (he said he needed to check the library's archives for "something." Actually that something was Loretta who was planning to meet him there for a "library date."), David spoke up, having to excuse himself twice for burping.

"I don't know about you guys, but I miss Susan," he said.

"Well I can't say I miss Susan that much, but I do miss Janelle," Benjamin replied.

"Not as much as I miss Love," Lewis piped up. When the others looked at him funny, he said, "You do know "Love Story' is what her initials stand for, right?"

"Okay, I have to ask, how did your girlfriend end up with that name?" Jesse asked.

"From what I was told, when Love was born, her mother suddenly went blank on what to name her. They had at least a dozen names picked out. But when the nurse asked her what the baby's name was going to be, all the mom could think of was a romance novel she read while she was in the hospital. So the words Love Story came out, except it was in Chinese so it would sound more authentic."

"I can see it's not a name you want to be called by your enemies, or the tax man for that matter."

"Of course it sounds sweet if you're close to her. But the words "Love Story,' plus her middle name, makes for something that takes up some room."

"Really, what's her middle name?" Benjamin asked.

"I can't tell you."

"Why not?"

"Because I value my life, that's why not."

"We don't want anything to happen to you, you grill a mean steak," David said.

Billy, who didn't want to feel left out, said, "Hey, I miss my Irena too."

"Miss her? She's still in town."

"Yeah, but I miss her anyway."

"What's wrong?"

"She put me on "probation,' that's what's wrong. She said I needed some time to put everything in perspective, and she needed some time to cool off so she won't body slam me."

Benjamin looked at him. "You did it, didn't you?"

"Did what?"

"Either said something that made you look really stupid, blabbed out something about her and mud wrestlers, or a combination of the two. We warned you man, we even had you watch DVD's of her in action. But no, you just couldn't leave it alone, could you?"

"Oh come on, Ben-"

"Benjamin."

"Benjamin, I already got a lecture from her, I don't need another one. And what's with the name change, I thought Janelle calls you Ben."

"Well you're not her, so call me Benjamin; unless you want me to call you William."

"Okay, I got the point."

"What I was about to suggest before we found out what's wrong with Billy was to go ahead and give them a call," Jesse suggested.

"Well I already talked to her this morning, but I can talk to her again," David pondered.

"Hey, you can even use my phone," Jesse replied as he tossed his cell phone to David.

The solitary call to Susan turned into a conference call. Janelle, who was close to Susan, wanted to talk to Benjamin, and when they finished, Jacqueline called out to LS that Lewis was on the phone. Besides the three couple's vows of undying love for each other, they also promised to make up for the time they've been apart. LS, realizing it was about time to gather the team together, reluctantly had to end the call. But she wanted to tell Lewis one more thing.

"How dare you watch DVD's of Susan's fights and the Russian Cage Matches without me?" She said.

"Well, I, me and the guys, ah, hey, how did you find out about that?" Lewis sputtered out.

"I am a woman, we always know. And you better have something special fixed for me when I return."

Lewis looked at the men, wondering if a spy was among them, then realized that women have a habit for just "knowing things," like it or not. "I will, Love, don't worry about that," he said.

LS's supposedly harsh tone softened immediately. I will come back to you in a day or less. I must see you."

"Ah, it's because you miss my breakfast in the morning."

"That, and the rest of you. Good-bye, my beloved."

"Bye, Love."

After catching his cell phone tossed back to him by Lewis, Jesse said, "I sure hope that helped you guys. I'm not attached to any of them, and I feel like crying."

"Well apparently Irena reported our activities the other night to the girls. Love just told me not to watch anymore fights on DVD without her."

"Hey, you don't think she told them about what happened to us, I mean Irena and me," Billy exploded.

"No, I don't think she told everybody. Hopefully she didn't tell your sister," David said.

"Why's that?"

"Because when she finds out, she's going to "whack you across the head.'"

Despite themselves, the rest of the men couldn't keep from laughing.

"That's cruel, David," Benjamin said.

"Yeah, but somebody had to say it. Billy, you may want to be scarce when they come back."

"David, Betty is not going to track me down and hit me in front of everybody for, you-know-what."

"You sure?"

"I'm not going to talk about this anymore. When I get out of the bathroom, let's play some cards or something."

As he went to the facilities, Jesse said, "Come on, David, you're being mean."

"Yeah, I know, but he had it coming. When Susan told me she was a kickboxer, I didn't have any idea there was such a league around, but I knew better than to say something silly."

"The day we met Janelle, she won an arm-wrestling contest against some circus strongman; so we already knew how strong she was. You don't make light of things like that," Jesse said.

[Author's Note: And that can be found in Janelle's debut story, Love Can Be Weird ' Mongoose.]

"Yeah, we had no idea," Benjamin reflected.

"I knew LS since my freshman year of high school, and she was already well-built when I met her," Lewis replied.

"Yeah, I still remember that story about her coming to you by the pool and asking you how she liked her swimsuit," David laughed as he decided to grab some desert. "I think she was bound to get you in trouble, dude."

"She almost did, and that wasn't the first time either. I have another story about the day we wore new uniforms in gym class during our junior year. It will have you shake your head."

"I'd love to hear it," Benjamin said, "but we better cool it, our man on "probation' is back."

Billy emerged from the bathroom. "So guys, what game do you want to play, hearts, yuker, spades?" He asked.

"How about "Old Maid?'" David remarked.

"Geez David, chill out! He's been through enough," Jesse said.

"Sorry, that one slipped out."

"It was nice of them to call. Now I am even more determined to end this," LS said after she was out of the kitchen and earshot of Mrs. Chang.

"You could've let me get back on the phone so I could've told David not to watch anymore matches of me without ' me," Susan said in mock anger.

"I find it interesting that Ben has taken an interest in female combat," Janelle replied. "Maybe I should've brought him along."

"No, I wanted Lewis to bond with the guys," LS said. "He has heard so much about them, and I wanted somebody to keep him busy."

"In other words, keep him from worrying about you."

"That is correct. I also wanted him safe."

They passed by the den where Jon was engrossed in the race, and May was performing an exercise she regularly did in her judo class, while managing to turn a page in the book she was reading. It was enough to make LS do a double take.

"Huh; I remember her telling someone in class once that she practiced judo almost as often as breathing, but I thought she was speaking metaphorically," LS remarked.

"Looking at her makes me feel guilty, and I did my exercises today," Janelle said.

"I just want to know how she can read while she does that," Susan commented.

"I have practiced judo and those exercises since I was a child, and I do not think I have enough concentration to do that and read a book at the same time," LS observed.

Kim came in from outside. "Hey LS, do you think it's time to ' is she doing an against the wall standing one arm pushup and reading a book?" She asked.

"Your eyes do not deceive you."

"Must be a good book."

"It must be a good race. Jon hasn't noticed," Janelle remarked.

"That's nothing new; Jon can watch a car race for hours, while the house is on fire. LS, do you think it's time to wake the others and get on with what's going on tonight?"

"Yes; the race should be over in another twenty minutes. We will wake Rhonda, Betty, and Cao then, and May should be finished, or at least to the next chapter," LS quipped.

"Well let's go on to the garden then."

A few minutes later, Betty, normally a pretty sound sleeper, awoke, not by sound or anyone rousing her, but by the call of nature. As she staggered down the hallway from the bathroom, she recalled it's been a long time since she's been so exhausted. Then again, it was not everyday she fought indestructible people on blazing hot rooftops either.

She heard the sounds of a car race coming from the den, and saw Jon watching it. Like a moth to a flame, she went to the den.

"Hey Jon, what race is this? My word, May, what are you doing?" She asked, startled by May's latest physical movement.

"I'm reading the latest David Baldachi novel. It's very engaging," May answered in her soft voice.

"No, I mean that other thing you're doing."

"Oh, you mean my judo exercises. I do them all the time. Sometimes I don't even realize I'm doing them."

"How often do you do them?"

"At a guess, I'd say about five times a day."

Betty flopped on the couch. "You just wore me out again, girl. Jon, what are we watching?"

Jon continued to watch the race.

"Jon?"

The cars rounded a curve. Betty tapped Jon on the shoulder.

"Jon?"

"Oh hi, Betty, I didn't see you," Jon said.

"So I noticed. What race is this?"

"The Paper Chase 500. It's sponsored by the major newspapers in this area. I'm taping the whole thing for you."

"Why thank you, that's very kind. After all I've been through, that's a wonderful gift."

"I'm eager to please," Jon smiled. "By the way, you have bed head."

"Bed head?" Betty exclaimed, feeling her head and desperately looking for a mirror.

"It's true," May added.

"It's not that bad," Jon laughed. "Actually, on you, it looks kind of cute."

"Really?" Betty said.

"Betty? I thought I heard your voice in here," Kim said, arriving in the den. "You saved me the trouble of waking you up. I see the race is almost over, and May, you're finished doing what you were, uh doing. LS needs you by the garden ASAP. And Betty, do something with your hair, it looks terrible."

With a sigh, Betty wearily got up from the sofa to fix her hair in the bathroom. Jon gave a slight shrug to May, who began giggling as they left the den.

"What's so funny?" Kim demanded.

"Nothing," May replied, innocently.

Kim watched her for a moment, then thought no more of it as she walked through the house to find Cao and Rhonda.

When Betty arrived at the garden, everyone was gathered there. Rhonda was standing, but it seemed to be the only conscious thing she was doing, other than yawning a lot. Cao was no less in better shape as she found a nice patch of grass to lay on. Both women, having longer hair than Betty, had a more severe case of "bed head" than she did.

"So Betty, I see you're back with us," Susan said.

"In body at least," Betty replied.

"That's why I didn't take a nap. When I take one, I'm gone."

"Wherever I was, it was a nice place. I'd like to go back to it tonight. LS, I have a question."

"Sure Betty, what is it?" LS asked.

"You were on that hot rooftop like me and Rhonda was. How come you weren't worn out like we were?"

"Now comes the true story about LS's "commando training.'" Kim joked.

"Huh?"

"Years ago, LS, Jasmine, and myself were watching a program on how they train Navy SEALS. Then LS came up with this idea, and said we needed to try some of this stuff."

Rhonda, now more fully awake, said, "And what "stuff' did you do?"

LS was about to answer, but Kim spoke first. "Stuff like sitting in a freezing pond in nothing but your swimsuit. Oh, need I ask it was January when she did this? She also went to the other extreme, getting as hot as she could get. After she did each of those insane stunts, she ran through an obstacle course, provided with some poor man we paid to be thrown at the end."

"Kim, if I may speak please? At the time, we were watching the streets constantly, and just because it was cold outside, it didn't mean the thugs stayed home. I thought those exercises would be an effective way to toughen us. And as I remember, I was not the only "insane' woman who did it," LS said, glaring at Kim.

"Well, I did a little."

"I suppose Jasmine stuck around to make sure you two didn't kill yourselves," Cao replied.

"Actually, she did better on some of those drills than we did."

"So her "chi' was stronger than yours?" Betty joked.

LS grinned slightly. "Yes, you could say that. My cousins thought I was nuts, anyone in the neighborhood who heard about it thought I was crazy; even I was starting to wonder about myself. But it paid off when he had to fight under adverse conditions."

"So that's why a hot rooftop dueling with the "flying ninja' didn't bother you. I was beginning to think I didn't eat my Wheaties# or something," Rhonda said.

"Okay, I have one more question. Kim, how come I had to fix my hair while Cao and Rhonda got to come as they are? No offense, ladies," Betty asked.

"None taken," Cao mumbled, finding a softer spot on the grass.

"I expect my students to look as presentable as possible at all times," Kim replied. "Rhonda is LS's student, so she's her responsibility, and Cao is family, and nothing can be done about that."

"Oh," Betty groaned.

"Hey Kim," Susan said.

"Yes?" Kim responded.

The kickboxer grinned and said, "Smile."

Kim was taken aback. "What?"

"Smile."

The normally unflappable woman was suddenly stunned by the request, and floundered trying to come up with a suitable or stern response. Everyone else though, was rolling on the ground with laughter. Even LS, who tries to keep a serious tone herself, couldn't help giggling.

"Someone thought you needed to lighten up a little, so they had me send you a message," Susan said.

"Mother," Kim breathed with a funny look on her face.

"While my cousin is regaining her composure, I will go ahead and go over the plans with you tonight," LS said. "First, Jon, do you have something for me?"

"I sure do," Jon replied, trotting into the house. The trip only took a minute or two as he came out with a handful of pictures. As soon as LS took them, she started leafing through them.

"Well, this explains things," she said as she quickly went through them.

"Kim, where are your parents?" Janelle asked.

"Oh, this is the time where mom and dad have tae kwon do practice, I forgot to tell you," she said. "She told everyone to have a good time, and don't stay out too late."

"You have nice parents, Kim; especially your mother, who has a beautiful smile," Janelle replied, teasingly.

"Stop that!" Kim barked.

"What do you see, LS?" Susan asked.

"Yes Love, don't keep us in suspense," Cao followed.

"Ah Cao, nice to see you up and around. Susan, do you remember fighting the boxer named Storm?" LS said.

"Yes I do, who was the same woman who had a gang follow you around for a while," Susan replied.

[To be found in The Thrill of the Hunt ' Mongoose.]

"Well, I believe I found the reason why she was able to bounce back so quickly from that steroids controversy."

LS shown Susan the picture of Storm and the councilman kissing in front of their house.

"Yep, that would explain it all right."

As the others looked at the photographs, Janelle asked, "So what are you planning to do, LS? Blackmail him?"

LS pulled from her pocket a copy of the conversation between Johnson and herself. "No, I am going to make him an offer that he can not refuse. I do not care if he sleeps with half the kickboxers in this city; I want him gone. And he will go one way or the other. He has been a plaque in this town long enough, and I will not endure him turning it into a war zone so he can stay there another four years."

"Amen to that," Rhonda replied.

"Before I go on, there is considerable risk in what I am asking you to do. If you do not want to pursue this course any further, I understand, nothing will be held against you if you refuse. You have been a big help to me so far, but I will do this, if I have to do it alone."

Silence settled for a few seconds as LS's words settled in. Suddenly May stepped forward, stared into LS's eyes, and said, "Teacher, tell me whatever you want me to do, and I will do it tonight."

Kim followed by saying, "You already know what I'm going to say, and I already said it several times, so I'm not going to bother."

"Stay behind, and miss all the fun? This is already more fun than that bodybuilding tournament in Cleveland would be," Cao said.

"When is that tournament?" LS asked.

"Tomorrow."

"I am sorry. I did not mean for you to-"

"Think nothing of it! At least I can flash my muscles and pop people in the head for a good reason."

"You know I'm with you on this, LS," Rhonda said.

That left Janelle, Susan, Jon, and Betty. Janelle was studying one of the pictures intensely.

"You'll need someone to neutralize the guards," she said.

"What?" Kim responded.

"I think that's her way of saying yes, she's in," Susan said.

"Do I still have home security?" Jon asked.

"Yes brother. Mother and father may be away, but we don't want any surprises waiting for them. I know they both can handle themselves, but still. . ." Kim said.

"I gotcha. It'll give me a chance to play with my garage's new surveillance system. Not even a cat will walk by the house without my knowing it."

"Good, good. Betty, you're kind of silent over there. I know what happened earlier today wore you out, but if you can help in some small way, that would be great," Kim requested.

It wouldn't be until the mission was over that Betty would catch the urgent plea in her teacher's voice. At the moment however, she was contemplating other things, like what kind of road she'd be driving on, how much traffic would she have to deal with, the closest she could park away from the mansion, how much horsepower the van had for a clean getaway, etc.

"Of course I'm coming, I'm driving the getaway van," Betty replied. "Jon, I need you to tell me everything about those roads, and how close we can get to the mansion without parking on his front doorstep. Does anyone have objections to going through the woods?"

After everyone shook their heads, she pulled Jon alongside, and they started talking amongst themselves.

"I will do this on one condition," Susan said. "If a certain person will do her mother's request and smile."

"Susan, for Pete's sake!" Kim protested.

"I've seen you laugh and joke around, so I don't think one smile is out of the question."

"And you're saying if I don't smile, you won't help?"

"Not completely. I'll just sit in the garage with Jon and perform surveillance."

"All right, I'll do it," Kim breathed, and flashed a smile. It was a rather dazzling smile. Then just as soon as it appeared, it was gone. "Happy now?"

"You have a beautiful smile, Kim," Janelle said. "Why would you want to hide it?"

When Kim was silent, LS told them, "Because she is ornery! Welcome aboard, Susan."

"At your service, ma'am," Susan replied, bowing.

"All right. By what I gathered from Jon's pictures, there are at least five or six patrolling the house," LS pointed out. "That almost balances out to one man for each of us. After Betty finds us a suitable place to drop us off, we will pick one to knock out, and stash under the bushes someplace. That will leave two of us without. I of course, have the councilman, and I guess one will be backup."

"Don't forget Storm," Susan said. "I suppose I could have a rematch with her; I'll just make it quicker."

"No, she's mine," May said aggressively.

"Are you sure?" Janelle objected. "She's a professional kickboxer, and she's almost as tall as ' wait a minute, I forgot whom I'm talking to here."

May just gave an evil grin.

"It is just as well, because she's going in with me. Given her height, it will be easier for her to sneak in the house. The tricky part will be disabling the burglar alarm," LS said.

"Why? You have six guards guarding your house around the clock. Would you even use your alarm even if you had one?" Betty asked.

"I never thought of it that way, but she has a point," Kim said. "I don't think he'll have it enabled."

"But what if he does?" Janelle asked.

"What if he does? By that time, it's too late. Besides, I know enough about electronics to disable any sensors and stuff. I'll already be busy disabling other things anyway," Betty replied.

"'Other things?' Like what?"

"I assume we won't need to, but in case we need to make a quick getaway, I'd like to make sure we won't be pursued, if you get my meaning."

"You're going to slash the tires?"

"Oh come on, Janelle; anyone can slash the tires. To momentarily confuse the car's computers so they won't start right away, that takes someone with skill."

"Then perhaps I should tell you what make of car you'll be disabling," Jon said, as he quickly gave Betty the makes of the cars he saw at the councilman's house.

"Is that all?" Betty responded. "I'll have that done in no time!"

"What about Storm's car?" Susan asked.

"What about it? Storm isn't going to be ready anytime soon to chase us, and I can't see any of these guards getting into her car that quick. If you're about Janelle and Susan's height, getting into a sports car is an act of coordination and contortion."

Janelle raised her hand. "I can attest to that. Ben once thought about buying a sports car, and after an hour of folding ourselves into those things, we thought it would be a bad idea," she said.

"So I gather you already have an idea on how close we can get to his house?" LS asked.

"Yeah, but first we need to stop at Wal-Mart# again," Betty answered.

"We're getting ready to do a major break in, and you want to go shopping?" Cao said.

"I don't know about you, but I don't want branches and leaves getting stuck in my hair; plus we'll need some type of flashlights to get us through the woods, even though it's only a short jog. And you can divvy the guards among yourselves; I'll be a little busy on the grounds."

"Well let us go. We will figure out the rest on the way there," LS said.

"You know it's at times like this, I sincerely wish I didn't I didn't make that goofy promise," Michelle said. Her and Rini were sitting on a park bench not far from the house where LS's parents lived. Michelle was decked out in a lime green short-sleeve shirt and blue jean overall shorts. Rini wore khaki pants with the legs rolled up to the knees, and an old blue Oxford long-sleeve shirt untucked with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows. As per their usual dress, both were barefoot.

"I agree with you. I wasn't going to make that promise, but Caroline practically pleaded with me to do it," Rini replied. "I'm really not sure why she made us do that."

[Author's Note: That "goofy promise" was made in No Good Deed Goes Unpunished, available at you-know-where ' Mongoose.]

After a moment's reflection, Michelle said, "Because she knows we would do it. It, our word, is the only thing keeping the two of us and Jasmine from marching down to City Hall and beating the councilman to a pulp. Hey, do you remember the time we were practicing our one-inch punch, and her sister gave us the funniest look?"

"Yes; I remember what Caroline told us her sister said too. "You martial arts people do some weird things.' I wonder what she's doing now."

"I wish I could tell you. Aside from my regular visits with Caroline, I only visit her family once in a while to see the baby. She moved out, and lives in the city someplace. As bad as it is to say, every time I saw her, I would think of Caroline, and before I know it, I find myself getting angry all over again."

Rini sighed. "Me too. I consider myself honored that we're guarding LS's parents' house, but at the same time, I wish I was out there "in the field.'"

"Maybe we shouldn't have told them about our promise when we first saw her behind bars. Oh that's right, we didn't, Jasmine did. I'm sure she'd be struggling with this decision too."

"Speaking of struggling, did you hear something?"

"Now I do. LS's folks aren't home, right?"

"Right, they have tae kwon do practice tonight. If it's intruders, they would park around the back," Rini commented.

Both women made their way around the back of another house that had a clear vantage point of the house they're guarding. They saw four people, two men and two women approach the house. Two of them circled around to the front.

"Game on," Michelle said. "You want front or back?"

"I think I want the back. I'm dressed more obvious than you are."

"Okay; you going to use your sticks?"

"No Michelle, I'm in more of a mood to tear them apart with my bare hands ' and feet if it comes to that," Rini replied.

"Oh yeah, how much damage?"

"How about we forget about any promises or pledges until after we beat them?"

Michelle grinned. "Works for me."

Quickly, Michelle trotted around the front of the house, where she saw one of the women ring the doorbell of the house.

"They're not home," she said, startling them. The two thugs figured it was one of the neighbors until they took a closer look at Michelle. Michelle recognized them as well.

"Ah, I remember you two, I beat you up earlier," she remarked.

Full remembrance came to the man in the duet, who leaped, attempting to catch her in a flying tackle. Michelle grabbed one of his arms while stepping aside, and guided his ascent into one of the rose bushes on the front lawn. Muted screams and curses burst forth as the man tried to get himself loose from the thorny branches.

The woman tried to catch her from behind, but Michelle turned and delivered one of her one-inch punches directly into her face. Staggering back with a bloody nose, she reached into her back pocket and pulled out a knife.

"Yeah, you deserve a handicap," Michelle said. "I'm glad you came, because I have this dire need to beat on someone."

The woman slashed and jabbed madly at Michelle, who backed up a little bit, then blocked the next slash attempt by striking her right forearm against hers. The impact almost caused the intruder to drop her knife, but the next few moments wouldn't matter if she had a knife or not. Michelle spun around to the outside and sent an elbow into her right eye socket, possibly cracking it. She spun again and delivered a right side kick into her kidneys. Screaming in pain, the woman cradled her blade trying vainly to ward Michelle off with it, but Michelle wasn't done.

Normally she would've used the finesse of her tai chi and aikido disciplines, but on this night in her present state of mind, she wanted to use raw power. Going for a frontal assault, she launched a front kick into the woman's left side, knowing her adversary would not be able to strike quickly enough with the knife. The woman gasped in more pain as she felt a rib or two break. Michelle grabbed the wrist of her knife hand, and used the other hand to punch her several times in the head in a few seconds. A turn of the wrist, and the knife fell in the grass. A foot sweep delivered her to the ground, where Michelle mounted her and gave her a few more punches before she slipped into merciful unconsciousness.

The man, with his clothes torn and multiple cuts delivered by the rose bush, finally managed to get himself loose from the rose bush, only to find himself facing Michelle who was out for blood. She delivered a left punch into his solar plexus, and then followed it up with a heel palm blow to the chin. He was out cold.

"Is that it?" Michelle demanded. "Your lady friend put up more of a fight, and she's hurt more than you!"

Making sure to pick up the knife, fold it, and put it in her back pocket, Michelle grabbed the ankle of each person, and dragged them to the back. There might be the slightest chance Rini might need help, she thought, but she doubted it. As she made it around the back of the house, she saw she was right. Rini's bare left foot was placed on a man's head, pushing his face into the ground while she had one of his arms bent in an aikido hold. From the looks of it, the arm was not far from the breaking point. Rini's other hand was clamped around a woman's throat. Sensing the man had enough, she dropped his arm, which plopped to the ground like a dead fish. When she saw the woman was out, she tossed her aside with one arm, landing her among the trash cans.

"I wasn't finished," Michelle lamented, dragging the two bodies along.

"Neither was I," Rini replied.

"Surely they're going to send more people. I still have some pent-up anger to work off. Maybe we could wake one of them up and interrogate them."

Rini lightly laughed. "For what? We already have what we need to know, unless you're talking about the sheer pleasure of beating on them again. How bad did you hurt yours?"

"All together, there are some broken ribs, bruised kidneys, maybe a sprained wrist, and a cracked eye socket. Oh, and some superficial cuts and bruises if you count the rose bush," Michelle replied, ticking them off on her fingers.

"A cracked eye socket? Man, you were brutal. I was afraid if I let myself go, I might do something I might get arrested for."

"I restrained myself; they're still alive, aren't they?" Michelle said defensively. "Besides, one of them had a knife. Hey, do these guys look familiar to you?"

"Yeah; didn't you punch that guy out the other day?"

"Uh-huh. I think one of LS's students hit these two you dealt with. What do we do with them now?"

"I was going to recommend the dumpster down the street, but somebody went "Dirty Harry' on her assailants, and now they're in need of medical attention," Rini ribbed.

"Don't give me that; you know you wanted to hurt them."

"Yes I did, but I was too busy throwing them. Wrenching that man's arm was as far as I got."

"We could throw them in the dumpster, then call an ambulance. Just say it was a street fight; they happen all the time," Michelle explained.

Rini pulled out her cell phone. "I'm going to send a text to LS that her family is safe," she said.

"Could it wait a minute? I'm going to get the car and pull it up so we can throw these punks in the back. The Changs will be back in fifteen minutes."

"Oh you're right! Okay, back it up, and I'll load them up."

The two women took care of the task quickly and quietly, and just in time as LS's parents pulled up in their driveway ' five minutes ahead of schedule.

"Whew! I don't think we could've explained ourselves if they caught us," Rini said as they watched them enter the house.

"Yeah, imagine trying to do it in proper English," Michelle replied.

"I rather not, thank you very much. I believe I will send that message now."

Back at the councilman's house, Matt, one of the guards, was watching the night sky. The stars were out, and he could see the constellations and a full moon too. His friends sometimes asked him, what was it like keeping watch for a guy who could be an absolute scumbag. Not bad, he always said. Johnson always paid well, and he liked his shift because nothing happens, aside from a deer, fox, or some stray cat or dog passing through the area.

Seeing that his area was secure, as usual, Matt leaned his bulky 5'10" frame against the house and lit up a cigarette. He lifted it up to his lips and took a puff. He savored it a moment, exhaled, and prepared to take another puff. But as he lifted the cigarette up to his lips, the cigarette was gone. He didn't even remember dropping it. Matt looked down on the ground to see if he could find it. When he didn't see it, he looked to his right side to see if it somehow fell there. The first and last sight he saw was the sole of Susan's foot knocking him out.

"Smoking is bad for your health," Susan said as she stood over the unconscious guard. She wore black boxing shorts, a black T-shirt, and a black scarf with a black domino mask hiding most of her features. When it was suggested that she'd wear the mask and scarf, she felt like she should either prepare for Mardi Gras, or get a cape to complete her getup, like what Batgirl would wear. But LS explained if the councilman saw her, he might be able to make her kickboxing career rather difficult. Susan grudgingly agreed.

"Filthy things," she muttered to herself as she took her bare left foot and grounded out the lit cigarette. She then tied and gagged the guard before dragging him into the woods.

Wearing a black sports bra, black scarf, and black yoga pants, Kim moved quickly and quietly through the grass toward her target. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Susan handle her victim. For a woman who never done covert work, she was doing a good job. She'd like to knock her target out like Susan did, but there was a complication. Unlike the other man who was smoking, this one kept on fumbling with his radio. During the struggle, there could be a good chance he might be able to turn it on long enough to summon help. Suddenly Kim came up with a unique idea.

With a burst of speed, Kim shot out of her hiding place toward her target. Before the guard understood what was happening, Kim punted the radio from his hands sending it high into the air. She then spun in the air to deliver a flying roundhouse kick to the head, knocking the guard out. As she landed, she opened her hands wide to receive the radio on its downward decent.

"I still got it," she smiled to herself as she clipped the radio to her pants, and started to tie up her prisoner.

Dwayne marched around his area like it was Fort Knox, and he was given the sole responsibility of guarding all the gold. He walked around his area in circles, back and forth, and in what looked like a few geometrical patterns. He never was one for keeping still. The guards on earlier shifts could always tell where Dwayne was patrolling by the indentions in the grass. It drove the gardener nuts. In fact, Dwayne drove his fellow guardsmen nuts too. When one of them told him that during the late shift he could relax a little, Dwayne looked at him as if he was speaking another language. The word "slow" didn't seem to fit in his vocabulary either as he made his patrols in short bursts. Small wonder he was laid off from previous job as a guard for a bank because he made the customers nervous.

As Dwayne made his rounds, he noticed the two other guards who stood still suddenly weren't around. They may have either checked on something or rushed inside the house to use the bathroom; no big deal if they're aren't gone too long. On the edge of Dwayne's area, there was a tree with low hanging branches. About every three minutes, he would go under the lowest one before he walked back to the beginning and started over again. He walked under the branch for the umpteenth time when strong brown arms from above clamped around his neck. Immediately Dwayne swung and elbowed his unseen foe only to discover that his foe wasn't behind him, but above him. Soon his struggles only served to put him to sleep that much quicker. When he went out, those arms dropped him on the ground.

Rhonda swung down from her perch, dressed in a black stocking cap, a black T-shirt and black sweatpants, where she overtook the hyperactive guard. She looked at him with a mixture of relief and frustration.

"Didn't anyone teach you to slow down, boy? It took me forever to get up this tree while you were running in circles like a bunny rabbit," she fumed, and then stopped when she realized she was talking to someone who was knocked out. At least she didn't have to break a leg to keep him from rushing about. But to be on the safe side, she'll bind the legs first.

Jon was sitting in his garage, checking over his latest "toy," a closed circuit television camera system. Since he bought it a month ago, he meant to install it in the garage so he could watch for possible intruders when he worked at night (there were a few individuals who were jealous of Jon's prowess with a wrench, so he thought something like this would keep them at bay). Since LS gave the general plan, he bought a few more cameras to survey the house as well. At his improvised "control center" near the back of the garage, he almost felt he had a God's-eye view of every nook and cranny around the garage and home. Nobody would get by him.

Suddenly, he heard the door to his garage open. Startled, he quickly turned around. He saw a woman the same height he was with a thin build. Her black hair was pulled back, allowing her long tresses to hang down to the middle of her back. Her delicate-looking facial features and skin were a few shades darker than Jon's own.

"Hi Jon. What are you doing?" She asked.

"Mai? What are you doing here?" Jon said.

"Yes it's me, Mai, your nosy neighbor. And I always drop by here, especially when the lights are on."

Jon looked over her outfit. She wore a blue long-sleeve pullover blouse and matching pants with elastic around the ankles, and a red slash belt. She wore no shoes.

"Mai, you're barefoot," Jon commented.

"My family is Thai, Jon," Mai said. "It's second nature with us. Besides, why should most of your family and your sister's friends have all the fun? I'm also not at work where I have to wear something on my feet, so now I'm free."

Mai also knew Jon had an attraction to barefooted women, so for this night, she decided to empathize it a little with a gold anklet, blue nail polish, and two gold toe rings. She was pleased (making sure not to show it) that he had noticed. She sat beside Jon, glanced at the multiple screens for a moment, and then turned to him.

"So what are you doing, Jon?" She asked again.

"I'm, I'm just testing out some new security equipment I bought," Jon responded.

Mai sighed and turned herself in her chair so her whole body faced him. "Now Jon, I've been your neighbor for several years now. You should know you can't hide anything from me. Besides, Kim, LS, Cao came over to your house with some buff women I never saw before, and they only stay long enough to eat, not counting the sleepover they had last night. And besides seeing you head out with a camera, I see Michelle and Rini leave, looking like they missed the boat, and you know it's not often you see Rini unhappy; she wasn't even smiling."

Finding that his neighbor had found him out again, Jon gave Mai an abbreviated version of what happened the last few days, and the game plan thus far. Mai nodded, and directed her gaze at the multiple screens on the monitor.

"So LS plans on taking the councilman down," she said. "Good for her. I think she'll succeed where others failed."

"'Others failed?' What do you mean? How do you know?" Jon asked.

Mai turned to him with a slight smile. "Jon, there isn't much that goes on around here or this town that I don't know about. That's something you may want to keep in mind for the future," she replied.

Jon prepared to ask what she meant by that last remark, but Mai interrupted him.

"You missed a spot," she added, nodding at the screen.

"Where? I covered everything," Jon said.

"Let me show you," Mai replied as she made her way to the door, crooking a finger as she went. "By the way, is that one woman pretty good with cars herself?"

"She owns her own garage, and has a few cars she rebuilt."

"She's from out of town as well, right?"

"Yeah."

"Here we are."

In a spot on the ground covered in shadows between the house and the garage was a figure clothed in black, bound in laundry clotheslines. Mai bent down to pull the mask up. It was a woman.

"She was venturing around this area not covered by your cameras, and I asked her what she was doing. She had the nerve to tell me to mind my own business, and called me a bad name, well, a few of them, actually. I told her I was going to tell your folks, and she attacked me. And there she is."

"I, uh, thank you," Jon said.

"No problem, that's what good neighbors do. There's a nice-sized dumpster two houses down if you're not planning to interrogate her, or something. She can sleep it off in there. If you need my help, you know where I am."

Jon looked at the would-be intruder, and then at Mai, who just grinned. "How, how did you do that?"

Mai just giggled and said, "Good night, Jon. I'll drop by to say hello to everyone in the morning."

She walked back to her house smiling at the confused look on Jon's face. They'll be plenty of time to tell him a lot of things once she put her plans in motion; plans in which he will play a big part. One of those little details she'll eventually reveal will be that she's been a practitioner in Muay Thai for the last eight years.

Cao remembered when the group went shopping for "covert wear," Kim and LS stressed to get something they would be comfortable in as well as something stealthy. For the professional bodybuilder, that equated to an article of clothing she wore a lot, a posing suit. Since the average department store didn't carry posing suits, the next best thing would be a bikini. That became a problem however when Kim barricaded her from the swimsuit section, and swore under threat of death that she was not going to storm the councilman's mansion in "that getup." She saw LS stifling a giggle, and Betty ready to protest, but neither one wanted to deal with Kim who had a very stern look on her face. Cao decided to strike a compromise, and tell Kim she'll get a one-piece swimsuit instead. That too ran into problems when Kim thought she should get the type of swimsuit they wear in the Summer Olympics, the type that covers the legs as well as most everything else.

"Oh come on, Kim, it's warm outside! Do you want me to melt?" Cao protested.

Kim finally agreed, and Cao bought her swimsuit. Actually the one-piece was very comfortable and very resilient as she found out from her brief trot through the woods. The black swimmer's cap came in pretty handy too. Now her next dilemma was how she was going to take out this guard thirty feet from her.

The problem with an eclectic knowledge of multiple disciplines was the question of which technique does one use in what situation. She remembered Jasmine once told her to use whatever seems right to at the time. Of course this advice came from a prodigy who can very well duplicate whatever style is out there, so how valid could that be?

As she gave it some thought, Cao figured the situation called for a technique from one of the softer disciplines. She thought about those moves her aunt, a tai-chi master had taught her. However, considering the style of tai chi she knew, not only would it knock the guard out, it would also dislocate his jaw and strain his neck to the breaking point. She needed the guard knocked out, not maimed. Then another word of wisdom from Jasmine, LS, Kim, and everybody else (a large congregation in this family) told her: simplicity is king. With that, she sprung in front of the startled guard, and gave him a chop on the neck. He fell to the side like a felled tree.

As she carried the guard away, Cao made a mental note to use that chop at the next Event. It should go a long way toward making her a feared foe among her fellow bodybuilders.

Regarding outfits, Janelle decided to pick something reflecting back to her days in modern dance, which was before her days in ballet, which was as far as she was going to go concerning those bittersweet, mostly bitter memories. She chose a sleeveless black leotard, with footless tights, the legs cut mid-thigh, and for an extra spot of color, a red slash tied around her waist. It was the same type of outfit that she wore when she performed modern dance, and her favorite. Just wearing it made her feel like making those graceful leaps and spins she did years ago.

It also reminded her of the time she almost bit Ben's head off when he accidentally saw Janelle's ballet shoes, trophies, photos, and other dance memorabilia that day when they were going on an engagement cruise.

[Author's note: That little incident can be found in The Iron Foot, way back in the achieves of my library. The little dancing detail will be fully explained in a future story, I promise ' Mongoose.]

Pushing the memories out of her mind, she adjusted her pony tail (since her hair was black to begin with, she didn't see a need to bother with toboggans, nylon caps, or scarves), and sized up her opposition. Although she was a dancer, it didn't keep her from feeling like a dancing bear as they trotted through the woods. She felt like she stepped on every leaf and broke every branch that was around. The warning looks of the others didn't help much either. So she was absent that day they taught sneaking through the woods in judo class, it wasn't her fault!

As she prepared herself to attack, stealth was not what she was going to be aiming for anyway. When the guard (who was sitting on a lawn chair) reached down to pick up something, Janelle launched her strike. She ran towards her target, her bare toes churning up the ground. When she reached the proper range, she leaped. The guard turned his head just in time to see a large woman sailing towards him before she grabbed him around the side and neck. She twisted in the air, yanking the man out of his chair, and sending the junk in his pocket flying. Janelle hit the ground first, in a controlled roll, which didn't bode too well for her victim, who landed hard. The man took a second to try to cry out, but that was cut off by a savage lapel choke. Janelle wrapped her legs around his to keep him from kicking anything that might cause a racket. In the space of less than a minute, it was done. As Janelle got up, she was a little proud of herself. She was always pretty good on her chokes, but she had always had problems in the past with executing a good daki wakare, a high lift and separate throw. It wasn't pretty or sneaky, but it got the job done.

Still hiding out in the woods, LS, May, and Betty had just watched Janelle subduing her victim.

"She's very good," May said.

"Yes she is," LS agreed. "I have never seen a flying daki wakare before. It has never occurred to be to use it that way. Interesting, she moves just like a dancer. She never told me she had a dancing background. Ah well. I do not see the sixth guard. Could he be ill tonight? I do not think it will matter at this point. Betty, I think your path is clear. If May or I encounter the last guard, we will take care of him."

"Unless they made any recent improvements in the make of these cars, it won't take me long. Besides, I don't think they guard the garage as closely as they do the house; not that there's any to be concerned about now. Here I go," Betty said, quickly sneaking off through the grass directly toward where the garage was located.

Betty was wearing a black tank top and black Capri-cut jeans (because of her new short haircut, she didn't bother with any type of headwear), but while she heard Susan make superhero jokes about her mask, that gave her an idea. When she was little, she would look through her brother's Batman comic books, mainly to get a peak at the Batmobile. The other thing she always noticed was Batman's utility belt. It took a little bit of searching to find exactly what she was looking for, but after taking a black carpenter's belt, a smaller version of the tools she always carried with her, and some Velcro (to keep the tools from banging around), she made her own utility belt. She almost bought a black cape to wear as a joke, but she knew Kim would have a fit, and there was no need to get her more uptight than what she was. Maybe uptight wasn't the word for it; intense was more like it.

More than likely the garage would be locked, but Betty was prepared for that too. A long time ago, she took some lessons from a locksmith to deal with locked cars with the keys still in them. It also included dealing with electronic locks, and the proper use of lock picks.

With all this knowledge, it's a good thing I'm a good girl, Betty thought.

Any problems with the door appeared to be a moot issue, because Betty found the garage door slightly open. Inside it was still dark, except for a dim service light, so Betty whipped out a small flashlight and went in. As she approached the cars, she shone her light on the tires. Jon's suspicions were confirmed. The tires were Titan tires, black, sleek, and virtually invulnerable to punctures. One would have to take a power drill to the tires to make a dent, or an axe to slash them if he or she had all day to do it. The makers of the tires were so confident about their product they offered a lifetime guarantee. These tires were generally used by dignitaries and highly esteemed politicians; particularly those who have people who don't like them. And according to some rumors, drug lords in some countries used them too. On top of that, the tires were very expensive. This councilman evidently had very good connections to get them, and bringing in enough income from who-knows-where to buy them. Fortunately it'll be much easier to lift the hoods of the cars, she reflected, and quietly made her way down the line of cars.

Betty started to hear a strange buzzing noise. At least it sounded like buzzing. It might be no big deal, but then again, it might be some type of silent alarm. It might be a good idea to check it out just in case.

Using her flashlight, Betty continued to follow the buzzing noise to its source. As she rounded a corner, it dawned on her what the buzzing sound was. It was snoring! One of the guards took advantage of his shift and his area to go into the garage and take a nap. Betty laughed to herself. The new plan was to first find "sleeping beauty" and determine if he was a light sleeper, or one of those people who can sleep through an earthquake. Then she can go from there.

Located in a separate room in front of the automobiles was what appeared to be an office, with its own phone lines, a computer, and what looked like a wall of keys. There also was a desk, an office chair, and located on both of them was the sleeping guard. The door was opened only a little, and Betty saw that as a good thing, because the man was loud! If it wasn't for the office, and the size of the garage itself, all five guards would hear him; and probably mistake him for a bear, Betty thought.

This changed things. She could still work her magic on the cars quietly, not that Grizzly Adams in the office would hear her regardless. However, seeing that wall of keys gave her a more simplistic approach. Taking a small pouch from her utility belt, she gauged its size, and then got to work. Quickly but gently, she took each car key and placed it in the pouch. After she did so, she pondered where she would stash it. Smiling, she pulled open one of the front drawers of the desk, making sure not to disturb the guard's siesta, and dropped the pouch in there. Granted, the keys in the front drawer would be easy to get to, but not if you don't know where they are in the first place.

As she walked out of the garage, Betty had to be happy with her success. Without getting her hands dirty, she disabled all the automobiles in the garage, and accomplished this without throwing a punch, kick, or even a confrontation. It almost seemed like a downer in a way, but after fighting idiots with swords, and indestructible women who had the hots for her, it seemed like a small relief. There always was the possibility that he may wake up, but by the time he did so, they'll be done. Besides, how would he explain to the others how the keys were taken under his watch?

Maybe there is something about these pantyhose, Stacy thought, as she walked to one of the extra bedrooms where a large bulk of her clothes was stored. She had changed into a nearly transparent baby blue negligee and matching pantyhose. The sex life between her and the councilman had been pretty active before, but since she bought these hose from the Daughters of Athena, it was like she couldn't get enough of it. She already ravaged the man in his office earlier that evening; now after they ate dinner, and she changed into something more comfortable, she wanted to go at it again. It's as if the hose shifted her normally active libido into hyper-drive. Not that she was complaining, but she needed to take care, lest she burn her man out, drive him to an early grave, or having to chase the man when she was in one of those "moods."

Stacy paused on the last frame of that thought. Actually it would sound cool to chase him around the house, and . . . never mind. The way the hose were designed, it also made her less inclined to wear shoes, which also seemed to add more fire to her sexual furnace. She made a mental note to talk to the woman about these hose . . . and then buy ten more pairs.

She walked into the spare bedroom, turned on the light, and then jumped as she saw LS sitting on a bed, legs crossed, decked out in black leggings, a black half-sleeve top, her toes wiggling fiercely.

"It's you!" Stacy said in a hushed whisper.

"Hello Storm," LS replied, looking over her outfit. "Nice lingerie, it displays all your muscles and female form. I will need to look into getting one of those. Anyway, it appears I may have interrupted something. I would apologize, but I am not. I have something to discuss with your boyfriend."

Stacy's expression changed from one of surprise to one of rage. "We have a little something to "discuss' ourselves," she spat. "I received a nasty little bruise on my stomach from our last meeting, and I would like to pay you back."

"Oh, so you are ready for another "lesson' I see. I would be more than happy to "teach' you some more, but I have more pressing business with Mr. Johnson," LS replied calmly. "I do not suppose you could tell me where he is, could you?"

"Why you arrogant little shrimp! The only person you're going to see is a surgeon at the emergency ward. Then I'll have you arrested for breaking and entering, and attempted assault!"

LS stared at her. "And are you going to attempt the first part in that outfit? I do not know if I should be offended or flattered. And as I have tried to tell you, I do not have time for you tonight. But I have not forgotten you, since I found out about your intimate connection with the councilman."

"How did you find out?"

"Not important. I need to go." LS snapped her fingers.

"You expect me to move because you snapped your fingers?"

Ignoring the question, LS went on. "May is an excellent student at my dojo; one of my first students in fact. She is nicknamed the "Giant Killer.' I invited her here for "pest control.' That would be you, by the way."

"What are you talking about, you ' ah!"

Stacy started to look around, and then jumped again when she saw May standing beside her. It was like she came from nowhere.

"How bad should I hurt her, teacher?" May asked in her usual quiet voice.

"Bad enough so she cannot follow us, but good enough to keep her out of the hospital. The idea of my tax dollars paying for her treatment does not sit well with me," LS replied.

"I'll smash you like a cockroach," Stacy hissed to May, "and then I'll do the same to your precious teacher."

"A "cockroach?' No one has called me that before. That's a new one," May smiled.

"Farewell, Storm, or since we are on a more personal level, Stacy. When you are finished healing from what May does to you, if you want me to teach you any more "lessons,' just look me up, and I will be glad to oblige," LS said.

As LS rose and headed to the doorway, Stacy/Storm lunged at her, but found May standing in her way. With a smirk, LS closed the door.

After Councilman Johnson set the big screen TV to the right volume, he left to grab a drink from his bar in the dining room. Despite the likely potential for a romantic evening, he was growing a little concerned. He did not hear from the people he sent after the two Chang families, and when he tried to call them, there was no answer. He wasn't crazy about the idea of sending more people, but he may have to.

As he mixed his drink, he walked by a nearby window to watch the night sky as he waited for Stacy. The view was pretty as always, but something was missing. After a moment's thought, he found out what it was. Ian, one of the guards on the night shift, normally occupied that spot. He could've left to relieve himself, but that didn't stop the cold chill creeping along his spine. He ran to the living room window and threw the curtains back. The scene was the same as always, except no guards were out front. Johnson turned and ran toward his office.

"Stacy! Stacy!" He bellowed, but the only response was the TV. There was a tumbling noise, but was that the TV or something else?

If he could get to his office, he could grab the cell phone that he used to summon his personal squad of policemen who obey his whims, and not necessarily follow the letter of the law. As soon as he reached his office, the big screen TV went silent, like someone turned it off.

"Stacy? Is that you?" He said.

The room, which was half-dark, now lit up. LS, Kim, and Cao were standing beside his desk. Rhonda, and Janelle covered the doorway. Susan and Betty stood outside the door.

"You!" Johnson said.

"You remember; I am impressed," LS replied.

"Where's Stacy? What have you done with her?" He demanded.

As if on cue, May entered the room, wiping her hands with a bandanna. Johnson recognized it, belonging to Stacy.

"Her kicks would be more effective if I was taller," May said, almost to herself. "I don't know how she could win very many matches fighting like that."

"You little runt! If you hurt her . . ." Johnson threatened.

May regarded him as if she just saw him for the first time. "I'm sorry, were you talking to me? Your girlfriend will be okay, aside from a headache and some bruises when she wakes up. You will have much worse if you threaten me like that again," she said.

The counter-threat surprised everyone by its utterance and delivery. May's calm, quiet voice did not hide the certainty that she would carry out her threat if pushed. The short judoka sat on the arm of a sofa, her brown eyes boring directly on the councilman.

There was something familiar about May's face, but the councilman couldn't figure out what it was. In any case, his rage finally gave way to reason as he finally directed his gaze to LS.

"Well may I sit down at least?" He asked.

"Oh by all means, go right ahead," LS said, making a dramatic sweep of her hand, pointing to his chair behind his desk. "The king does need to sit upon his throne, after all."

The councilman considered fixing himself another drink, but thought better of it. He wasn't sure what would happen next, but he needed to show them that he was still in control. What he was sure of was that he underestimated LS's tactical savvy. He was so confident that his forces would keep her so busy and exhausted if not beaten, she would be forever on the defensive. For some reason, he never expected her on his very doorstep. A horrible error, but that was alright, he still had an ace in the hole.

"You made it past my guards, impressive," he said, leaning back in his seat. "Now, why are you here?"

Kim, Rhonda, and Cao snorted at this question. Janelle shook her head, while Betty and Susan gave each other a look that said, "Are you kidding me?" May just stared.

"This nonsense, this "little war' you have started between us has to stop," LS said. "It needs to stop now."

"So you think you can break into my house and tell me what to do? You and your friends may be impressive fighting thugs on the street, but this is the real world, where things are different. Let me tell you a little something about power, LS. It doesn't matter how strong you are, how much muscle you have, or to be a master of all these fighting arts. If you don't have power, it means nothing. And LS, my dear, that is what you have, nothing. You have a chance to stop our "little war' before it started. Now it's out of your hands. Request denied. Now is there anything else?"

"Yes; you are to leave your office immediately," LS replied, without missing a beat.

The councilman laughed.

"How stupid do you think I am?" He said. "I now know how stupid you are. And I actually thought you were intelligent. Now get out of my here, you and all your muscle-bound bimbos, before I call the police."

LS pulled out a micro cassette recorder, and pressed the play button.

"My opponent, who is running against me this year, was making the claim that he's responsible for this drastic drop in crime . . . ."

She fast forwarded the tape, and played it again.

". . . give my son control of his old gang, he could cause just enough havoc to prove his boast a lie . . ."

LS fast forwarded the tape some more.

"I don't have anything to fear from the authorities; rather it's the other way around. I gave them their jobs, and I can take them away."

She pressed the button one more time.

". . . consider that a show of my power. That could be your family or loved ones"

LS stopped the tape. Johnson looked at her, mouth open and wide eyed.

"Now councilman, tell me again about power," LS remarked.

Johnson was stunned for a moment, trying to figure out how that happened. Then it came to him.

"Your gym bag," he said.

LS just gave a grim grin as she thought about how the idea came about.

"I suppose we could fix it so the wire could fit under the lapel of your gi," Kim said, as she looked at the tiny microphone and other electronic gadgetry sitting on the table before her.

"No, that would be too obvious," LS replied.

"We could fix it so it would fit around your waist," Janelle offered.

"That is true, but I may not be able to sit down. That might look a little suspicious, plus I might crush the equipment if I do sit down."

Betty who was sitting back all this time, spoke up. "Now I see why politicians are always caught with this "bugging' business. Putting the microphone on strange places on your person, that's bound to attract attention when you're moving funny," she said.

"So what would you propose?" Kim asked.

"I would say the simpler the better. Put it in someplace handy, like your gym bag. Just tape it in place so it wouldn't bounce around, and aim it in the right direction. So simple, it's obvious. It worked for Clark Kent."

"Betty, Clark Kent is a comic book character," Janelle argued. "Someone who took a close look at him with those glasses could tell he was Superman."

"But that's not the only thing. He was a reporter too. The last thing a person being interviewed would think while answering a question about something that just happened was, "Hey, that's Superman!'"

"But Betty, I do not carry my gym bag into most places outside the dojo," LS said.

"No, you normally don't; that's why you would need a distraction."

"What type of distraction?" Kim asked.

"Something that would keep the councilman's mind off what might be out of place," Betty replied. "It doesn't have to be something big."

"I understand what you're talking about now, but I can't think of anything distracting," Janelle said.

"Me either," Kim replied.

LS was looking into the closet of her bedroom, still debating what to wear. "I think I know just the thing," she said, reaching into the closet.

"Oh yeah?" Betty replied.

"Yes; I will be the distraction," she said as she pulled out her exercise leotard. "This should really tick him off."

"Someone wise told me that sometimes simple is better. The most obvious can be the most hidden. It works for Clark Kent," LS said.

"What?" Johnson asked.

"You will get it later. In the meantime, you have a few choices regarding your new situation. The first one is you can go ahead and resign your office now; I have mentioned that earlier. The second one if you refuse the first option, I will send this tape, or one of the many copies I made to the local TV media, and hungry newspaper reporters who have been out for your blood for years. Even if you do not end up impeached, your credibility would be shot, and your reelection hopes gone as well. The third option, considering all the trouble you put me through, would be for me to just beat the crap out of you. And there is my personal favorite, and that's for you to resign, I send the tape to the media, and I beat the crap out of you."

"You have presented some interesting choices," the councilman said, stalling. "Let's discuss this for a moment. I'm sure there might be some type of arrangement, or agreement we can come to."

"I already know the scope of your "agreements,'" LS argued. "As far as "arrangements' go, you have just heard them. I do not want your money, I have no desire to even consider running for public office, and a compromise is out of the question. You have your choices. You either choose one, or I will pick one, which will be most likely my favorite."

The councilman breathed a sigh of relief when he heard a cell phone ring. It was Kim's cell phone receiving a text message. It read:

Sis,

Nabbed one, no problems, family is safe. Be careful.

Love, your bro, Jon.

"Was that your phone, Kim?" LS asked.

"Yeah; it was Jon, telling me everything is all right," Kim replied.

"Good. Now where were we, Councilman? Oh yes, we were about to discuss your resignation." LS's cell phone ringed. "If you will excuse me."

Johnson started to form a smug grin on his face. The lone abductor he sent to Kim's parent's house was only a token gesture on his part, an added bonus. The main prize was the parents of his arch enemy. He wondered how she was going to negotiate now.

The call LS received on her cell phone was also a text message. It read:

LS,

The final score is:

Good Guys (the two of us): 1

Bad Guys (the four of them): 0

Your parents are fine, they never saw us. Michelle and I are fine. Two or three of the punks may need medical attention, but that's neither here nor there. The threat is gone, we're going home, see you in the morning.

Love, Rini & Michelle.

As she closed her phone, LS's facial features darkened, from a neutral expression to an angry scowl. The councilman saw this, and displayed a large smug smile.

"You dead dog, may your mother curse the day she ever bore you!" She spat out in a hushed stage whisper.

The rest of the women thought the insult was strange, though it sounded like what someone would say in the King James Version of the Old Testament. Cao and Kim however, both had shocked looks on their faces.

"Uh oh," Kim said.

"Now, my little nemesis, I believe the tide has turned," Johnson said. "Now that you have heard from my men who made a visit over to your parent's house, let's talk about those "arrangements' that you didn't want to make."

"No," LS said flatly. "Those were my friends who took care of your men; my parents are fine." As the councilman's face turned ashen, she continued. "You know, a part of me believed that even you would not stoop so low as to attack one's family like a common gangster, but I see I was wrong."

"Maybe we can still work something out." Johnson had started to rise from his chair, and move behind it to use as an impromptu shield.

"Work something out? Oh we are past that? Do you remember what I said would happen if you dared to make a move against my friends and family?" LS started to move forward.

"LS, I wasn't really going to-"

"DO YOU? I believe I was going to make you regret that I didn't take care of things in your office once and for all."

Kim and Cao made frantic hand motions to the rest of the women. From the looks on the faces of the two women, they saw not to argue as they rushed forward. To LS, the rest of the world didn't exist, except for her, and her prey standing in front of her. Johnson saw the look in LS's eyes, and began to realize that his continued existence may depend on what he does in the next few seconds. In his desk's front drawer was a revolver. Nothing fancy, just a registered handgun, something to use in the rare chance that something life-threatening might happen in his house. And that time was now. Fortunately the drawer was unlocked. In a split-second, he could pull the drawer and yank the gun out to keep her at bay at least. The timing had to be just right.

"Now despite the fact I want to rip your head off, councilman, I am a fair woman. I believe you still have a choice to make. What you choose now may make things a little easier, and maybe a little painless. A little, not a lot. What do you choose, Johnson?" LS asked, taking another step.

The councilman thought very carefully. He still had the chair in-between them, and the drawer not far from his right hand. She may have offered him a choice, but he would be crazy to let his guard down now. In the face-off, Johnson made a crucial mistake by directing his eyes toward his desk drawer.

"I knew I could count on you to do something stupid, councilman," LS said.

What happened next took only seconds, though to everyone there, time appeared to slow down. LS ducked low, and with her right hand, flung the heavy office chair out of the way, almost having it roll behind her. With a speed he didn't know he had, Councilman Johnson yanked open the drawer, and drew the gun. But drawing the gun was the only thing he was able to do. With her left arm, LS executed her hand sweep, her hand striking Johnson's legs at the ankles. The councilman then found himself flying backwards. As his back hit the carpeted floor, the revolver took a flight of its own, landing in one of the large potted plants sitting beside the desk.

The other women moved as one toward the two combatants, but Kim and Cao were the only ones who were close enough to matter. As they went after LS, they now had the new obstacle of the office chair that rolled in their way. Kim tripped over it and fell to her knees. With muscles developed from hours of working out in the gym, Cao picked it up and threw it to a corner of the room, just being mindful enough to make sure it avoided the other women behind her. Having removed the chair, Cao dove forward.

At this point, LS sat on Johnson's legs, pinning him down. In pure horror, Johnson looked at LS's face, which was in pure rage, realizing that it may the last sight he would see in this life. A myriad of possibilities flew at light speed through her mind. To take her fists and pound his head until it broke like a pi#ata might be satisfying, but it would take too long. A palm heel strike to the nose, breaking it, and shoving the bones into his brain could do it, but it wasn't always successful. There was a wide variety of judo chokes and strangles she had in her repertoire that could put him down in a few seconds, but that wasn't quick enough. Finally she found the right thing. Forming her hand into the shape of an eagle's claw, she readied it to strike and rip out his throat, or at the very least, dislodge his larynx. The claw wasn't a standard judo technique, belonging more to kung fu, but technique was the last thing on LS's mind at the moment. With a look of rage, she raised her hand to make the fatal strike. Before she did so, she heard a voice cutting through the red haze in her mind.

"LS, don't do it!" Kim cried from the floor where she fell.

LS considered it for a split-second, but then the memory of that attack at Lewis' apartment, the attack at the dojo, the attack at her apartment building, and finally the attack on her family. No, he must pay, this has to stop, she thought, as she finished raising her hand for a final strike.

With anger burning in her eyes, she started her strike, only to find out her hand wouldn't move. She tried again, but it wouldn't lodge. She finally turned to see what the problem was. Cao had two arms wrapped around hers in a desperate death grip.

"Don't do it, Love, he's not worth it," Cao whispered to her.

Kim got up to take LS's other arm, so she and Cao could pull her away. The other women arrived to help; Janelle moved in-between LS and Johnson.

Calm rationality returned to LS, along with the realization that she was just a moment away from ending someone's life.

"You can let me go now," she said. Both women slowly released her arms. She turned and walked around the desk.

Johnson still lay on the floor, his mouth moving like a fish, trying to say something. Janelle turned to face him.

"Shut ' up," she said before walking away.

There was an awkward silence for a few minutes. Then LS turned to the others and said, "Let's go home."

"Just wait outside, everybody. I'll go and fetch the van, it won't take long," Betty said as she trotted out of the house and into the night.

Everyone quickly left the room, except for two women, Cao, Kim, and May. Kim and Cao walked back and faced the councilman, who was still lying on the floor. May stayed where she was at in front of the desk.

"Th-thank you," Johnson managed to say.

"What you need to do is to quit your office, pack your things, and leave," Kim said evenly. "Cao and I saved your life tonight. The next time, we may not be able to hold her back. And I'm not sure I'll want to." She turned and left. Cao considered saying something, but since Kim echoed the same sentiments she had, she just turned and followed her cousin. May stood and gave Johnson the same burning stare she had given him throughout the evening. Despite his befuddled state, recognition started to come to the councilman concerning the face that glared at him.

"Wait a minute, I know who you are now, you're-" he started to say, but May turned and walked out the door, following the others.

In the morning, at LS's apartment, aside from a "Good morning," LS and Janelle conducted their workout in silence. LS told Janelle that they were going to eat breakfast at Kim's parent's house, to which Janelle told her it wasn't a problem. It wasn't a normal gesture for either woman to turn on the television after their morning exercises, but regarding the events of the night before, it may be a nice idea to see if they made the state's most wanted list. After they showered and changed, LS took her television remote and turned it on.

"Our breaking news story for today is Councilman Michael Johnson has suddenly resigned," the television reporter said. "No explanation was given as to why he did so. His secretary said he came to the office, and handed her his letter of resignation to be read in a press conference. The letter said-"

LS turned off the TV. She had no desire to hear what the letter said.

Though a mighty victory had been won, neither woman was in a celebratory mood. LS turned to Janelle.

"I suppose you see me now as some cruel sadistic monster," LS said.

"Why would you say that?" Janelle asked.

"Janelle, I almost killed a man last night. All I wanted to do was use those tapes to get him out of office, and out of my life. But when I found out he sent some goons out to attack my mom and dad, I lost it. I did not just want his resignation, I wanted his blood. I wanted to finish him as soon as possible. And you know what the scary thing was? I was running all the options through my mind on how I could do it. I wanted to rip his throat out, Janelle. I heard Kim telling me to stop, but when I thought of all the attacks he launched on my boyfriend, my dojo, my cousin, and finally, my parents, I lost it. If it was not for Cao hanging on to my arm for dear life . . . well, I would rather not dwell on that."

"LS, you faced someone who pushed you to the edge," Janelle replied. "I thought about last night, well, I thought about it a lot, actually, and if it was me, I would've done the same thing, except I would either choke him or snap his neck. What was that thing you did with your hand, anyway?"

"Oh, that was an Eagle Claw. One of my relatives knows that style of kung fu, and one day during one of our family reunions, he showed it to me. I guess among our group, Cao would be the only other one to know what it was."

"Okay. Another thing. Do you always deliver curses from the Old Testament when you're really angry?"

LS laughed. "Boy, I must have been really steamed. There is a story about that."

LS's phone rang. She got up to answer it.

"Hello Kim," she said, already knowing whom it was. "Yes, I saw the news. No, I did not hear what the letter said; it was probably some bureaucratic garbage about how he came to that decision, how it pained him to leave, and so on. Yes, we will be over for breakfast. How am I feeling? Ask me that again after breakfast. Oh, have your mom set another place at the table, I will call May and invite her over, it is only fair since she was with us last night. Okay, I will see you soon; bye."

"So how is Kim feeling?"

"I am not sure, but I think "half-dead' might be the word for it. Let us get ready, and I will tell you that story."

At the Chang's household, Sonny and Jacqueline were happy about the news, but the women weren't as enthusiastic, mainly because they were half-asleep. Despite some good-natured ribbing from Jacqueline about the evils of staying out late, breakfast went well. May made a brief appearance; she had to get to work before "they realized they missed her," she said. Later on, Cao and Rhonda came over, soon to be followed by Rini and Michelle, the latter two to catch the remnants of breakfast, and to find out what really happened last night. Mai dropped by briefly, as promised, and made Jon introduce her to everyone. After she met the new women, she asked them a couple of introductory questions. Once her curiosity was satisfied, she said her goodbyes and went to work.

"Mai strikes me as a strange bird," Betty said, as her, Janelle, and Susan stood in front of the sink, doing dishes. They figured as much as they ate there the last few days, washing a few plates was the least they could do.

"Yeah, with all those questions, I felt more like I was being probed," Janelle replied.

"I know she asked me a few questions, but then again, considering what I do, I'm used to that," Susan stated. "But she really drilled you, Betty."

"No kidding! She asked me stuff that I only hear from customers and other mechanics. It felt like a pop quiz," Betty said. "I wonder why."

"Who knows? Maybe she has a passing interest in cars. Just as long as she didn't ask me what I was doing last night, it's no big deal," Janelle replied.

"If anyone asks me outside of our group, I'll tell them I went on vacation. But I can't wait to go back to work so I can get some rest."

"Amen to that."

"Hey you two, what did you think about last night?" Susan asked.

"I think we're going to have a meeting regarding that subject," Betty said, "and then you can ask me later."

"Why so late?" Janelle asked.

"Because I'm going to take a nap."

As Betty predicted, LS and Kim entered the kitchen, and told them everybody would be meeting by the garden in a few minutes. When they met, with the exception of Michelle, Rini, and Jon, everyone seemed to drag just a little.

"Before I deliver my remarks, I just want to hear what everybody else's thoughts are about what we have done," LS said.

"From what I've been hearing on the news, we're responsible for one of the biggest news stories of the year in this area; something that will make the history books," Betty said. "Only we can't tell anybody about it; at least not too many people around here. Back home, I, I'm not really sure what to tell them. Part of me still can't believe we did it."

"I think Betty speaks for me as well," Susan replied.

"Same here," Janelle said.

"Michelle and I wanted more people to beat up," Rini joked.

"Rini, Michelle, you have my deepest thanks for what you did last night. I can never repay what you have done," LS said. "And to the rest of you, I thank you deeply. Regarding last night, I would like to apologize for how I acted last night. I have been told by some of you that you would probably do the same thing, but that still doesn't make me feel better. But I believe I can safely say that my days of street justice for lack of a better word are completed. The streets are safe again, and one of the main causes for it is gone."

"LS," Kim began, "I'm not going to go into what happened last night, nor rehash how we could've done things differently. I'm just glad what could've happened didn't happen, because I really don't want to have to split my time coming here to visit you in prison."

"That was a joke, by the way," Jon said.

After that clarification, everybody laughed.

"And people wonder why I don't tell jokes more often," Kim replied.

"Well enough of that. Everybody ready to go home?" LS asked.

After the visiting party said yes, Susan said, "It may take a little while. Our driver wants to nap first."

"That is fine, I need to pack anyway," LS replied.

Rhonda, Cao, Rini, Michelle, and Jon hugged everyone before they had to head their separate ways. Betty drove Janelle and LS back to the apartment, then returned to the house, quickly packed, called Irena at the shop that they'll be home later that day, and then promptly collapsed on the bed, and was out like a light for the next few hours.

It turned out Betty's remark about what they achieved being a big news story was an understatement. Repercussions of the councilman's resignation extended statewide. Later that year, Johnson's opponent won easily and almost unopposed. But before that happened, other things occurred as well.

In a more secluded area of town, the Wilson family was sitting in front of their television. Breakfast was filled with the usual conversation about work, how classes were at college, among other things, when the son, Roger, turned on the TV to find some sports scores. Instead, he received news about the councilman's sudden resignation, and called everyone in the house to see the dramatic turn of events.

"Can it be true?" Jessica, the wife and mother said, almost to herself. Self-consciously, she stroked her left temple where one of Johnson's crooked cops struck her with a Billy club.

[Author's Note: The story behind what happened to the Wilson family is documented in No Good Deed Goes Unpunished. You should know where it is by now ' Mongoose.]

"If so, then our nightmare is over," Kyle remarked. The last couple of years seemed like they were refugees in Nazi Germany. He had to work out of town a lot, while his son attended a private school, and the daughter, Heather, went to Indiana University in Bloomington, an hour away. Jessica almost became a prisoner in her own home. She had to quit her job, and had to look over her shoulder any time she ventured outside the doors. To that end, a bodyguard, Jake, was hired to make sure no one would approach them. All this was because Kyle refused to play the councilman's games of manipulation and deceit.

The whole family watched the news, double-checking in a way that what they heard was no hoax, and then Heather got up from the sofa. "Come on mother, let's get dressed," she said.

"Get dressed, where are we going?" Jessica asked.

"To the police station. There's a woman in there who saved our lives who's in there for no reason at all, and I want to get her out."

"You are right. Kyle, I must go with her. I don't know what would've happened if it wasn't for her. She sacrificed a lot for us," Jessica said to her husband.

"I understand honey. Still, take Jake with you. He might be gone, but his goons might not know that yet," Kyle replied.

As the two women ran off to their bedrooms to get changed, Roger turned to his father and said, "Dad, will this mean I can go to a normal school again?"

"I hope so, son, that school is not cheap."

"And I won't be surrounded by stuck up people all the time."

"Oh come on, they're not that bad, are they?"

"One of them called basketball a "sport of barbarians,' and suggested that polo should be the sport everybody should play."

"Polo? They're worse than I thought. Don't worry son, by this August, I'll make sure you'll be back in a regular high school with your fellow "barbarians,'" Kyle laughed.

Kyle slowly was starting to feel relieved, relieved that the hell he put his family through was finally going away. He was a promising building contractor who wanted to make sure his family would live well. Johnson saw his eagerness and preyed on it, promising Kyle his family would never want for anything if he would do a "couple of deals.' A "couple of deals' soon turned into almost every deal until he said enough was enough. In time, his family forgave him for his mistake, but it still took twice that long for him to forgive himself. Now at last, he can walk the streets of the town he called home without feeling like a criminal.

At the local police station, Chief of Police Daniel Butler was on the phone. He was a black man in his fifties with salt and pepper hair, an average build, and a normally tired face that had brightened up for the first time in years.

"Really? You sure? Well it's about time! You just made my day. Thank you."

He hung up the phone, and smiled at his lieutenant.

"What's going on, chief?" The lieutenant asked.

"Come with me," the chief answered.

They walked over to a desk that was literally covered with paperwork, and not all of it was police business either. Behind the desk sat a 6'6" unkempt police officer sitting back with his feet on the desk and halfway through a box of doughnuts. He regarded Chief Butler with a bored expression.

"Mr. Allen, by the power invested in me as the Chief of Police, and to the relief of all the officers who respect their uniform and badge, I hereby terminate your employment as a police officer, effective immediately," the chief said, trying his hardest not to sound enthusiastic.

"You can't fire me," Matt Allen said, spraying bits of doughnuts everywhere. "The Councilman-"

"The councilman is gone, Allen. He's flown the coop. Now it's time for you to do the same. I'll take your gun and badge right now.

Allen grudgingly handed them over.

"You now have twenty minutes to clean out your desk," the chief continued.

"You can't do this to me! I'll sue!" Allen protested.

"You now have fifteen minutes. If you're not done, I'll personally throw you out. And whenever your slob of a partner comes in, I'll tell him the same thing. And Allen, your dismissal will run through this town like a forest fire. I'll bet there's a number of people who'll want to get their hands on you. So after you leave here, you better run, and run fast, because we might be looking the other way."

The chief turned and went back to his office, but not before he received a standing ovation from his fellow police officers, staff, and even some of the criminals.

[Author's Note: Again, you'll find out more about Officer, or rather ex-officer Allen in No Good Deed Goes Unpunished. ' Mongoose.]

Normally in things dealing with bureaucracy, the paperwork concerning requests and other things tend to go slowly. However, there were exceptions to the rule. With the sudden absence of the councilman, numerous requests were sent through with lightning speed. Well, lightning speed in comparison to how fast normal requests go through, relatively speaking; this is the government after all. One request in particular ran through the system quickly.

A month later on a Wednesday morning at a woman's correctional facility (or women's prison, to put it bluntly), during a morning recess, the prisoners filled the courtyard. In the center of this courtyard, there was a group of about twenty prisoners performing tai-chi exercises. At the front of this group stood a Filipino woman who stood 5'6 #", with shoulder-length, wavy black hair. Her build when she first entered was athletic-looking, but from the time spent in the prison gym over the last four years, it had became more muscular, particularly in the arms.

Caroline Barusta was leading her "class" through its regular morning tai chi session. Later that day during the afternoon recess, she would teach a slightly smaller class aikido lessons. The guards didn't mind her teaching the inmates these two forms of self-defense; in fact, since she had done so, the number of conflicts between inmates had dwindled considerably. Even some of the guards themselves attend these morning sessions with the inmates. Over the last four years, she became a popular inmate.

Dressed in her standard issue orange jumpsuit, peeled down to the waist to reveal a white T-shirt, and barefoot, she was leading the women through the movement "Pat the Wild Horse's Mane" when she saw two prison guards headed her way. They allowed her to finish the movement and tell her "assistant," Maxine, a 6'2" black woman to lead them into "White Crane Spreads its Wings."

"Yes ma'am?" Caroline asked.

The first guard, a tall blonde woman almost the same size as Maxine, said loudly, "Ms. Barusta, you're needed in the warden's office immediately."

"Sure; what did I do?"

"Nothing!" The second guard, a stocky Hispanic woman the same height as Caroline replied.

"Nothing?" Caroline asked, reaching down to pull her jumpsuit up.

The guards started laughing. "That's right, nothing; you're going home," the tall blond said.

"Going home?"

Maxine stopped what she was doing and turned Caroline around. "Let me break this into words you can understand honey; go home! You're free! Get out of here!"

The Hispanic guard laid a hand on her shoulder. "The councilman resigned, so now all the prisoners he put in here and the men's prison for whatever dumb reason are being set free. Besides, you should get a medal for beating up that stupid cop," she said.

[Author's Note: A reminder; that "stupid cop" you'll find once again in No Good Deed Goes Unpunished. ' you know who I am!]

Caroline stood there stunned, like she didn't know what to do next. She knew in her heart that she would be free soon, but she had no idea when that actual date was. Still, regardless of what she knew, it was still a shock to the system to hear those words.

"Permission to kick the prisoner in the butt so she'll leave, ma'am?" Maxine asked the guards.

"That won't be necessary," the blond said, laughing. She and the other guard gently took Caroline by the arm to escort her.

"I'm going home!" She cried to the other inmates, tears running down her cheeks.

And her fellow, now former inmates cheered in approval.

Later, after she packed, or rather threw and stuffed everything that belonged to her in a box, and nearly broke Maxine's ribs hugging her goodbye, she appeared at the warden's office in the clothes she was originally arrested in. The warden, a fifty-something Hispanic woman wearing a smart navy blue business suit, greeted her with a smile.

"See, I told you I'd get you out before your sentence was up!" She said. "Actually, it appeared matters took care of themselves. The councilman quit, so lawyers and everybody are working like mad to get the wrongly accused out of this place. Those two witnesses you saved from bodily harm made their way to the police station not long after the news was broadcast that morning. In fact, the Chief of Police fired those goons soon after. Now they're going after them, since they're now charged with Police Brutality."

Caroline was going to say something, but she couldn't think of anything, except to croak the words, "Thank you."

"Don't mention it. By the way, your bunkmate will be out soon too. It may take a little longer since she punched out her ex pretty good, but not much longer. Why are you still standing there, go already!"

Caroline almost ran out of the office, and almost ran out of the prison. As the gates closed behind her, she saw her family, her mother and stepfather, her sister, and little brother, who could now stand on his own, she really started running. They stood there for a while in a long overdue embrace.

"Take me home!" She yelled.

"We're on our way, baby," Sharon, her mother said, as they moved to the car.

The crew arrived at Betty's garage later that evening (Betty's nap lasted until early afternoon, but by the time she woke up, she had to rouse a few of the others who were napping. After a short lunch and a thank you to Kim's parents, they finally left). They arrived to a warm welcome from their friends and boyfriends. Susan almost flew out of the van to embrace David warmly for a long time. Janelle did the same with Benjamin, until he pleaded for her to let him go, lest his ribs gave way. LS was a little more deliberate as she hugged and kissed Lewis passionately.

"I missed you, beloved," she said.

"Same here, Love," Lewis replied.

"I am tired, but before I go to Kim and Jasmine's place, let me check out this place that Velvet provided for you to stay while we were gone."

"Okay. The kitchen is a little dirty though."

"That is all right."

She told everyone she'll see them tomorrow, with the exception of Kim and Jasmine, who she would see later that evening. She paused to tell Velvet where they were headed, and gave her a wink. Velvet replied with a thumbs up. Billy saw that last transaction, and asked Kevin (he didn't dare ask Irena) what could be going on.

"So the others were right," Kevin said, shaking his head. From what he gleaned from Loretta and what he noticed, he had some idea.

"What?" Billy asked.

"You really are clueless, aren't you?" He replied and walked away.

"What?"

"What is it now, William?" Irena asked, walking up to him.

"Nothing."

Loretta walked over to Jasmine and Kim, who were talking with Velvet. "Were they going where I think they're going?" She asked.

"Yep," Jasmine replied, "and I'm not going to bed until I hear the answer."

"Then you can wake me up," Kim remarked. "I'm still wore out."

"As soon as you find out, call me; I don't care what time it is," Velvet said.

"That goes for all of us, I believe," Loretta replied.

Betty saw the four women giggling like schoolgirls and said, "Normally I would ask what you four are laughing about, but I'm too tired to care. Irena, I think I'll come in a little late tomorrow." She turned to Susan/David and Janelle/Benjamin. "And you four, break it up! I'm going to my house and sleep for a week. Ladies, gentlemen, I'll see you later." And she started walking toward her house, which was next door.

"I'm not sure, but I think she just threw us out," Jesse remarked.

"Well she does have a point, I'm beat myself," Susan said.

"Yeah, me too," Janelle agreed. "We can resume this tomorrow."

"I agree, the archives wait for no man. Bye everybody," Kevin said, making a point to discreetly wave to Loretta who smiled back at him.

Everyone filtered out, until only Irena and Billy were left. Irena took the opportunity to set some things up for the next day.

"So babe, you want to go out and have a late night snack?" Billy asked, sitting on Irena's desk in the office.

Irena sighed and said, "Sounds nice, but I can't," she said.

"Why not? It's not that late."

"No, it's because you're suspended."

Billy looked at her confused. "Suspended? From what?"

Irena stopped what she was doing for a moment and looked at him. "My past in the fight game was and is something I take rather seriously. And for someone who's supposed to be close to me to be flippant about it upsets me a little. So for a time, you are being disciplined."

"But I said I was sorry! I saw the DVD's, I know what you're about now," Billy pleaded.

"It shouldn't have took the DVD's for you to get an understanding of "what I'm about,' William. You can call me, and we'll get together on group events, but for right now, no going out."

"Now wait a minute, I think I'm an absolute gentleman when we're out."

"This isn't for just you, it's for me too."

"For you too? Is there someone else?"

"No, I'm doing this so when I do see you, I'll want to hug you, and not put you in a headlock and throw you to the ground."

"Hey, that might sound like fun!" Billy quipped. Irena glared at him. "Hey, it's a joke!"

"From those two moves alone, I know a few techniques that could dislocate your limbs or break bone. No, for you, that would not be "fun.'"

"So you're really angry."

"Now you're becoming a little more perceptive. But I'm more hurt than angry."

"How long will this take?"

"It will take longer if you keep asking me. Besides I said earlier you can call me and we can do group events."

"Outside of church, when will the next group event be?"

Irena thought about what her and most of the others saw coming, but she shook your head. "You'll find out. Goodnight, William."

"But-"

"Goodnight, William. I need to lock the door."

For Billy, it was a long walk to his house, even though it was next door.

Meanwhile, as the couple arrived at the house, LS said, "Care to give me the grand tour?"

"Sure. I don't know if I'll do as well as the realtor with the prospective buyers, but I'll give it a try," Lewis replied.

After he showed her around, he turned to LS and said, "Nice house, isn't it?"

"Yes, very nice. I did take a quick look at it before you settled in. Let us sit down, Lewis."

"Sure Love. Why are you smiling?"

"Beloved, do you remember what we discussed back at your apartment?"

"Uh, refresh my memory; so many things happened since then."

"I am referring to our conversation about finding a place to live, and what would happen if we found a particular dwelling, like a house?"

"Ah yes, I remember now. Well this house is real nice, but it's waiting for the prospective buyers to make a decision, so we'll have to look for adjoining apartments again," Lewis explained.

LS just smiled.

"What are you smiling about, Love?"

LS continued smiling.

"We couldn't buy this house if we wanted to, because we're not the prospective buyer."

LS smiled and cocked her head.

"Wait a minute, we're the prospective buyers, aren't we?"

LS's smile brightened.

"Blast it, Love, you fooled me!"

"No beloved, I caught you, fair and square. And do not tell me you do not like the house, because I can tell how much you love it, especially the kitchen. Everything was to both our likings when I surveyed it earlier; the kitchen was the acid test," LS said. "You are busted. Now that we have found a house, and a nice place to live, there are other matters to discuss."

"Like what?"

"Outside or indoors?"

"What?"

The wedding was beautiful.

The groom wore a classic white tuxedo with tails, while the bride wore a flowing white kimono and a white floral wreath upon her head. And of course, no shoes. The kimono was long enough to hide that fact to protect the sensibilities of the more squeamish and self-proclaimed officers of the "shoe police." But if they wanted to take a closer look, none of the bridesmaids (except for Jasmine, who adamantly refused) wore shoes either. Instead, they wore sheer white hose underneath their white kimonos. One of them, who's been a bridesmaid before, said that was the most comfortable she's felt in a wedding, not having to deal with shoes that pinched her feet.

The ceremony was held in a gazebo overlooking a lake at one of the prettiest parks in Central Indiana. The bride and groom gazed at each other throughout the whole ceremony. So much so, it was as if they shut out the world around them; the beautiful setting, the large crowd, the nice weather, everything. The only exception was when they broke their concentration long enough to hear the minister's admonition to both of them, and when they said "yes," "I will," and "I do." To make things even more intense, the bride and groom both quoted to each other verses from the Song of Songs, a book of love from the Old Testament. Some people blushed, fanned themselves, and took notes. In the audience, Sonny and Jacqueline listened to the erotic verses and gazed at each other. For them, it would be another early night to turn in. The minister found himself growing a little warm, and he knew about the scriptures beforehand.

Finally the words came that both were waiting for, "You may now kiss the bride." And kiss they did, a light, passionate kiss that spoke of promises to be fulfilled later that night.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Spaulding," the preacher declared. There was light applause, but near the rear of the audience, high-fives were delivered, and money changed hands. Kim reflected on this with a sly grin. She normally wasn't a betting woman, but on this day she knew she would be significantly richer. She knew it would be only a matter of time before her cousin got married to her longtime friend, she just didn't know when. In any case, she looked forward to collecting the winnings after the ceremony was over.

The reception was outdoors as well, with plenty of food, music, and dancing. Betty, wearing a light blue dress, ditched her shoes before the couple's "I do's" were shared. She walked across the lawn preparing to do something she's done only on occasions like this. Her opportunity to dance with Jon seemed to go away when she saw him dancing with another woman. That in itself was no problem until she saw what looked like a small line of women waiting to dance with him, Michelle and Rini among them.

As the two marital art teachers and friends waited their turn, Michelle turned to Rini with a revelation.

"Hey Rini, how long has Jasmine and Kim been living out of town?" She asked.

"A few years, why?" Rini replied.

"So except for them making occasional visits, what's keeping us from our initial pursuit?" Michelle continued, nodding towards Jon.

Rini thought for a moment, and then a warm smile spread over her face. "Why nothing, nothing at all."

Michelle returned her smile. "I think this summer, it's time to declare open season on Jon Chang."

"Effective immediately; and to the victor goes the spoils."

Both women exchanged a high-five, and started plotting to themselves privately when and how they would go out with their longtime crush.

Meanwhile back on the lawn, Betty just shrugged and walked the other way. No wonder his sisters are overprotective of him, she thought. His charisma was so strong, women couldn't seem to leave him alone. It was just as well she wasn't dancing with him; Kim would probably see them and make a big deal about it anyway.

Speaking of Betty's friend and sensei, she found Kim among a group of people collecting money. In fact, the little white purse seemed to be bursting with bills. It took no time at all for Betty to figure out what the wager was placed on.

"Shame on you, making money from your cousin's wedding!" Betty said when the two were alone. "Does she know about this?"

"No, and she's not going to know, is she?" Kim replied, her eyes boring a hole into Betty's.

"Uh, no; not from me," was Betty's response.

"There were some people fool enough to think LS and Lewis would never get married, and some people who were even more fool enough to think LS would never get married. When they came to me with this, and dared to bet me, they didn't figure in one thing."

"What's that?"

"That I'm right."

"Oh. So what are you going to do with the money?"

"Oh I'm not sure, maybe buy a new laptop with everything, maybe put it in a special bank account, who knows."

"Well since you seem to know these things, when do you think Jasmine or Jon will be getting married?"

"I would have better progress telling you who's going to win the next presidential election."

"You know who's running?"

"No. My sister's life is so private, I would've hired a private detective if I knew she couldn't catch him. And regarding my brother, with Jasmine and I living out of town, it would make it hard to screen out potential candidates."

"Potential candidates?" Betty asked.

"Yes, it would be a long and painful process. Now if you'll excuse me, I'll need to put away my winnings before anyone else notices."

As Kim quickly walked away, covering her purse, Betty said to herself surely she's joking about having Jon's ladyfriends screened. If that was the case, the poor boy may be looking at middle age before he dated again. Maybe he should move out . . .

"Hey Betty, where's Kim going in such a hurry?" A voice asked from behind her.

Startled, Betty sputtered, "She went to her car to put something up. She'll be right back." She then turned to see a 5'9" slim red-haired woman with long hair in a red dress, dangling her sandals from her fingers.

"Oh hi, Crimson, I didn't realize it was you."

"Yeah, it's been a while. And "Crimson' is only my stage name. You can call me Gayla like my good friends do," Gayla said.

[Author's Note: Crimson/Gayla you can find if you go way back in my library to the story An Invitation. I promised myself I would use her again if I get the chance, but it's been a while. In fact, I had to look up the title of the story she was in for this note. How about that? ' Mongoose.]

"Sorry. So Gayla, what's going on?"

"Since I last saw you, I got married myself, private ceremony, cruised the martial arts circuit, and kept my little company ahead of the game. I understood you had quite an adventure with my van."

Betty's jaw dropped open. "That was your van? I had no idea! I-" Gayla held up her hand, stopping her.

"Don't worry about it. You gave it a good road test, which proved to me it was in good shape with all the bells and whistles. Besides, we ended up kind of raw the last time we met, so this was my way of making it up to you."

"Oh, I was just in a weird place that day."

"No, I was giving advice that wasn't necessarily ' necessary. I just met you; I had no reason for saying that."

"Forget it. Do you still have your "Happy Hunting Ground'?"

"Yeah, but I don't use it as much as I would like. The prey has become scarce around here for some reason. I mean that's good, but it's bad, know what I mean?"

"Yeah. You should've gone with us a month ago. I had enough fighting to last me for a long time," Betty said.

"That would've been nice, but I'm domesticated now. I can't have the hubby worrying about me too much. Anyway, I need to take my leave, there's another event I have to attend. I already gave my regards to the bride and groom and the others, so I wanted to say hey to you before I left. I'll drop by the garage sometime."

"Sounds great," Betty replied sincerely.

"One more thing." Gayla pulled a check from her purse. "For all you did to "pimp my ride,' sister."

Betty took the check without looking at it. "I'm eager to please," she said.

"Be seeing you," Gayla waved as she took off toward her yellow Hummer.

Betty waved and opened her little purse to put the check in. Because of the purse's size, Betty would have to fold the check in half. It was then that she saw the actual amount Gayla gave her.

"Wha-what is this?" She barely managed to utter.

"Oh, that's just a little tip on top of the standard amount. Bye," Gayla called back on her way out.

Betty stood there transfixed, staring at the fleeting figure of Gayla, and looking down at her check. A minute later, Irena found her. She was wearing a sleeveless dark blue dress that bared her shoulders, and no shoes.

"Betty, have you seen Gayla yet? She wanted to talk to you about her van," she said. "Are you okay, you look like you've seen a ghost!"

Betty by way of response flashed the check in her face, making sure she saw the dollar amount. Irena whispered the Russian equivalent of "Wow," and looked as ashen as Betty. After a minute or two, she recovered enough to ask Betty a question.

"So what are you going to do with it?"

"I don't know. I think I'm going to put the check in my purse, and put it in the car, and then lock the doors; maybe I'll lock the keys in with the car. Maybe when I come home tonight, I'll believe what happened," Betty said.

"I guess this takes care of our Christmas bonus," Irena joked.

"I think it takes care of the next few Christmas' to come. And in case there was any doubt, hire a third mechanic."

"How do you want to go about that?"

"I don't know. I originally came this way to dance, but I think I'm going to sit down instead. I feel a little faint."

"I think I'll join you," Irena agreed.

In another part of the reception area, not far from where the food and drinks were served, Jasmine was talking to the new bride, and the two future brides-to-be, Susan and Janelle, playing catch-up on what she missed.

"Sounds like I missed a lot," Jasmine said.

"From what you told me, you had some excitement going on yourself," Janelle replied.

"Jasmine, where is Kim? I thought I saw her running to her car," LS asked.

"Oh she's just putting her purse away. It was becoming a burden," Jasmine said, phrasing her answer carefully. She figured she might get a little upset if she found out her cousin made a small mint on her wedding.

"Yeah, give me pockets any day," Susan remarked.

Michelle and Rini appeared, much to Jasmine's relief so she wouldn't have to cover for her sister. Michelle was wearing a sleeveless white summer dress, while Rini was wearing a spaghetti-strap blue cocktail dress with a slit up the sides. Rini looked at Jasmine with a devious grin on her face.

"Hey Jas, guess what kind of shoes I'm wearing?" She said.

"Oh come on, Rini, we all know you don't wear shoes at all if you don't have to," Jasmine started, then stopped as Rini raised up her skirt to reveal blue hose with a lace design, and clear blue slides, otherwise known as mules. Rini and Michelle burst out laughing; Jasmine was speechless.

"In all the years I've know Jas, she has never seen me with shoes," Rini explained. "Today, I had to pull this stunt, plus I wanted to prove that I do own a few pairs. Of course, I had to take them off when I was dancing. How do people move in those things anyway?"

"You got me," Janelle agreed.

"Well I brought some too, but I believe I left them at the dance floor," Michelle said. "I'll get them later, they'll be okay."

Janelle placed a hand on Jasmine's shoulder and said, "You know, you might as well give it up and join us, Jasmine. Kick off your shoes; you don't know what you're missing," she said.

Jasmine just gave her a dirty look.

Kim, who joined the group, said, "Let me guess, once again, you're taking part in the "never-ending' struggle."

"I gave up that struggle a long time ago," LS replied. "The woman is stubborn."

Jasmine gave her a dirty look. "Don't you have a husband around here someplace?"

"Yes, but I let him talk to the guys for a while. I am giving him an illusion of freedom before I take it away forever."

While they were laughing, Susan saw May pouring herself a cup of punch nearby. She wore a purple pastel dress and matching heels. "Hey, there's May our fearless "giant killer,'" she remarked.

"Ah yes, she was a tremendous help for us," LS added.

Jasmine watching her carefully, said, "Yes, I see she's bulked up since the last time I saw her."

"You know her?" LS asked.

"Yes, that's Caroline's sister."

That stopped everyone in their tracks.

"You mean your friend Caroline?"

"Of course; you didn't know?"

"Oh my, I don't know how I missed her; I mean she's changed, but I ' we were even in the same room, how -" Rini sputtered.

"Yeah, what you said," Michelle agreed.

"No wonder she fully agreed to go with us," Janelle said. "I would too if my sister was in the same situation."

"How come you didn't know, LS?" Susan asked.

"I never asked," LS answered. "I try not to make it a practice to ask too many questions on why they join my class. I just know she appeared on my doorstep before I even opened my dojo."

"Well she is an excellent student," Kim said as she saw May take a sip and head their way.

"I apologize for being late, sensei; I had another obligation to attend," May said.

"That is quite all right, May, I am glad you are here," LS replied.

"And my sister Caroline said she wanted to attend, but she wanted to spend the time with her family."

"You mean she's free?" Jasmine asked.

"As of ten this morning."

The group was awestruck for a second, absorbing the news. Then Jasmine rushed forward, kissed LS on the cheek, and said, "It was a beautiful wedding, cousin; I got to go." She ran off toward her car.

"Jas, wait for us!" Rini yelled, pulling off her shoes so she could catch up. "Wait, Michelle, your shoes-"

"Forget the shoes, let's go!" Michelle yelled as she ran after Jasmine.

LS watched them go, and then turned to May. "Goodness, May, I had no idea-"

"You never asked," May replied, "and I never offered. In the long run, it was better that way. I wanted to be known as your student, not Caroline's sister, or "Caroline's sister, who's been thrown in jail for no reason,' and I wanted to know all you knew about judo, not your sympathy on a regular basis. Not that you would intentionally do so, but it would be there. Caroline told me to come to you, because you were one of the best, and judo would be the best discipline for me."

"But to suffer like that for four years; that must be awful," Susan said.

"My sister forbade me from attempting anything; one of the reasons being that she was thoroughly convinced that her deliverance would be soon. I didn't understand it, but I believed her. And today, that day has come."

"Wow," Kim said, an expression that was unusual for her. The others nodded their agreement.

"I want to congratulate the groom," May continued, "but first, I wanted to thank you teacher, for being the main tool in freeing my sister. I must admit, you were more merciful with the councilman than I would've been."

As May walked off to see Lewis, LS said, more to herself, "Yes, I believe you are right."

"I don't think we would've been able to stop her," Kim reflected.

"Yet another reason why Johnson should be thankful he's still able to draw breath," Janelle remarked.

"Well, he is not my problem anymore, so you know what I am going to do? Since I am now a married woman, I am going to get the man of my dreams, and ask him to dance with me," LS replied. "By the way, Kim, you may want to rescue your little brother. He is beginning to look a little tired."

"Really? Who's he dancing with now?" Kim asked.

"Looks like he's dancing with Betty," Janelle observed before she received an elbow from Susan.

"Well we can't have that! And what is that, a line? Time to break things up," Kim went on as she walked off with LS.

Janelle turned to Susan, confused.

"What?" She asked.

Epilogue:

No one knew for sure where former councilman Johnson went. Some had speculated that he just moved to the more remote corner of town, most likely planning his comeback, others had speculated that he moved to Cuba (Cuba?). In any case, outstanding warrants for his arrest made any type of comeback unlikely. Those who worked for him outside of the legal capacity (who didn't flee town when they had the chance) had been caught and arrested. Story after story appeared on the news on how Johnson set them up, coerced or forced them to this or that, and was responsible for everything short of global warming. To simply matters, Johnson's staff was fired. His secretary, who really was innocent of any wrongdoing, was hired almost immediately by the man who would take Johnson's place. It turned out while the councilman was playing his power games, she did what most secretaries do, and ran the ship smoothly. She later received a card from LS, telling her she was glad that everything was going fine for her. Because of LS's workout tips, she was also looking rather buff as well.

Where some of Johnson's gang fled, or was arrested, some were not so fortunate. Matt Allen, one of his crooked cops, was found by police in the trunk of his car. A phoned-in anonymous tip told them where he was. He was found severely beaten. When he was found, he kept mumbling to the paramedics and police that he was beaten by a group of women, particularly one who kept talking about what he did to her sister. But the police assumed it was probably a gang of people who wanted some payback, and paid no attention to his rants.

After their honeymoon, LS and Lewis moved into their new house in the town where LS's cousins, Kim and Jasmine lived. LS said she accomplished what she needed to do in her hometown, and decided it would be best to leave it and create a new start. One of the first things she did was open a new dojo in a part of town that didn't have many martial arts studios around. After going through the process of moving his "center of operations," Lewis was back to baking, cooking, and running his business again. He started seriously thinking about renting or buying an industrial kitchen to expand it. Outside of that, they spend their time doing what newlyweds do, and living their dream. They have their house, their businesses, and the love of their lives. They don't have 2.5 kids yet, but they're working on it.

Regarding the Changs back in Indiana, Sonny and Jacqueline realized they missed having the kids running through the house like before. That was when Jacqueline dropped a bombshell on him, one that almost made him faint. Jon's garage and schooling went well, but he found his social calendar suddenly busy. It was as if the women who were attracted to him found out his sisters weren't around to chase them off, and started making their move. It made for a wild summer. Eventually, one woman did win the "prize," but that's another story.

The business at Betty's garage started to increase in customers, who came, if anything, to see what the new additions in construction were. Eventually she did hire an additional mechanic; a college student who was working toward a business degree, and who wants to ' you guessed it ' eventually run a garage. The new addition was of Korean decent, 5'6", had a muscular build, built a vehicle practically from scratch, and a black belt in hapikdo.

Betty hasn't received too many challenges since her return, which was good, because she was too busy to fight, her energies more focused on the newer inflow of customers. Every now and then, somebody would come by, challenge her, and she would give them a whack across the head, and that would be that.

After going to LS's wedding, Susan and Janelle hurried even more to put their own wedding plans into action. Janelle told Benjamin they should use the same Bible verses LS and Lewis used, but Benjamin refused, explaining that he didn't want to turn ten shades of red in front of witnesses. Susan stayed with her plans, but there was a championship fight she wanted to win first, as a wedding present of sorts to her husband-to-be.

The taped evidence against Johnson was never turned in; than again, with the rising tide of his wrongdoings being uncovered, it didn't have to be. Just the same, LS still had the master copy, stored in a safety deposit box. By that same token, Betty had her copy placed in a safe deposit box as well. To complete the overkill, Kim also had her copy placed safely away in case Johnson planned to try something against them.

A month later after the wedding of LS and Lewis, on the other side of town where they now lived, a longhaired, redheaded woman walked or rather strode proudly out of a nightclub. She received her jollies that evening by flirting with two men, and scaring their dates for that evening into fleeing and hiding in the restroom. After that was done, she gave her number to both men, and told her to call her soon, because she's so hot, she won't be alone for long. She even got a bigger kick from that, because neither guy was her type, and after she turned them down, they'll probably be begging their lady friends for forgiveness, explaining this woman led them astray.

The woman was Sheila, a 6'0" woman who had a large bodybuilder's physique and a perpetual scowl on her face, which some men found enticing. Sheila's stock in trade has been for the time she's been in town was being a full-time bully. That and antagonizing Betty by putting a bounty on her head to reward the first person to beat her up.

[Author's Note: Sheila, Betty's nemesis, can be found in a number of early Betty stories. Two in particular are Fred Again? and The Gang's All Here. ' Mongoose.]

And like most bullies, Sheila was a coward. Not that one would notice, considering how muscular she was. No one, man or woman, dared mess with her, but she received a sadistic joy in intimidating others, particularly those who were smaller and weaker than she was. When she encountered Betty with the plan of beating her up, it didn't take long to realize the mechanic didn't take grief from anyone; along with the fact that she could knock her head off with one of those kicks. So she figured if she could send enough catfighters to wear her down, she could stroll in and finish her off. All the plan did was make Betty mad, and word spread that she was looking for her. Well she could remain scarce until she's ready to deal with her, for find someone who can.

As she left the nightclub and approached her car, she found a heavyset woman sitting on the trunk, right leg crossed over the other, as if she was expecting her. The person in waiting was short, real short in Sheila's opinion, had long black hair, and large black sunglasses. She was wearing a half sleeve leotard, black tights, and barefooted. A small smirk appeared on her face as she saw Sheila.

"Hey, what are you doing on my car, shrimp?" Sheila demanded.

"Waiting for you. I am impressed, it didn't take as long as I thought," the stranger said.

"Well what business do I have with you? I don't deal with shrimps."

"Well I have business with you. Business on behalf of a friend."

"A friend?"

"Yes, her name is Betty."

"What, you want to take her on? That would be good, though I don't think you'd stand a chance against her. My reward is-"

"No, you do not understand; I am here as a gift to take care of you. She did a favor for me, now I do a favor for her."

Sheila laughed. "You're here to take care of me? To beat me up? Me?"

"Yes, and do not be so arrogant. I know all about you Sheila Easton," the stranger replied.

"Wait a minute, how do you know my name? I never told anyone here my whole name."

"How do I know? I myself have connections. You are Sheila Marie Easton, born in New York, particularly in the Irish part of town. After you graduated high school, you apparently were introduced to bodybuilding, and discovered the power it can have over people. You took up some boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling; just enough to take care of yourself when you encountered those who weren't impressed by your build. You became an enforcer for a women's gang, and made quite a reputation for yourself.

"That all fell apart when a rival organization decided your gang did not need to be on the streets anymore. I believe you also owed that group money too, interesting. So you fled here to live with relatives. I find that funny, because that same organization who wiped out your gang is actually stronger here than it was there. The fact that you're hiding right under their noses is either a good plan or a stroke of luck they have not found you yet. Now you spend your time engaging in bar fights, running little protection rackets, and pestering my friend by sending her women whose only form of combat is to bite and claw, like sending puppies against a tiger."

"That's pretty good. Of course, you know I have to hurt you real bad now," Sheila replied.

"I asked myself, how come this woman with all these muscles does not take Betty on herself?" The stranger continued, ignoring the remark. "I realized it is because she fears her. She knows what Betty can do, and does not want to engage her. Why does she mess with her in the first place? So she can be "the toughest girl in town,' and start her reputation here. You are pathetic."

"I'm not scared of anybody!" Sheila exploded. "I'll prove that by kicking your sorry but back to her garage!"

"Well, I am waiting. I hope you do not have any plans for the next week or so, because you will not be able to attend them," the stranger said, stretching her arms wide in a "come and get me" gesture, while still sitting on her car.

Betty must not think too much of me if she has this pipsqueak here on her behalf, Sheila thought. Out loud, she said, "First, I'm going to kick your fat butt off my car."

The side kick hit the stranger in the chest. But instead of it having the expected effect of her flying off the car or her bending over in pain, the stranger looked down at her stomach, brushed the dirt from Sheila's shoe off of it, and slowly got off the car. "Is that the best you can do?" She asked.

A split-second later, Sheila found herself flying over the hood of another car to land on the sidewalk. She scrambled to her feet while rubbing the sore spot on her belly where the unknown woman's bare sole hit it. The author of the kick strolled around the front of the car like someone who had plenty of time on her hands.

"That is how you do a side kick. I think I did that properly, or was "my fat butt' a little too fast for you?" She said. "I could do it a little slower if you like. That one was just right. I didn't want to injure any internal organs yet."

"Why you - ! Just because you had a lucky shot doesn't mean you're going to walk away from this one." Sheila's fists were clinched in some form of a boxing stance.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you, that was your one shot. You should have aimed for my head - not that you would have scored, you are very slow ' or tried to hit me with your fists. But you did not, so I will now teach you a lesson that is filled with pain."

Sheila by way of reply just growled at the top of her lungs and charged at her smaller opponent. She was going to pound this ant to paste. The idea was still in her mind when she found herself skidding on her back across the car's hood. She had a split-second to brace herself for the landing on the unforgiving asphalt. Upon the rough landing, the revelation appeared that this woman was not some mere pipsqueak who talked tough; this woman had some mad skills, and she wasn't finished yet. So Sheila planned to do one of the things she did best, a strategic retreat. She got up, ready to propel herself to her car door, and, wait a minute! How did she get there so fast?

"Going somewhere?" The stranger asked, standing beside the driver's side door of Sheila's car. "We barely got started! There is so much I need to teach you."

Out of desperation, Sheila threw a combination of a left kick to the stranger's ribs, followed by a right cross to the face. The woman parried the kick to the outside, seemingly leaving her more open to the oncoming punch. Delivering a high block that raised Sheila's right arm up, with a quick pivot, the stranger delivered a short punch to Sheila's ribs. Upon the punch's impact, Sheila realized something didn't feel right. She didn't get to dwell on that point, for the stranger took her right arm, twisted her hips, and gave her a classic over the shoulder throw. Her back exploded in pain when she hit the road, along with aggravating the ribs that the woman hit. She struggled to get up when the stranger slammed her foot on her chest, smashing her to the pavement once more. The next thing she felt was the woman's small fingers clamped around her jaw, pulling her up. The grip felt like someone had clamped a pair of pliers on her head, strong and crushing. The stranger by this time had one knee pinning an arm down, and had her face within six inches of Sheila's. She pushed up her sunglasses, revealing slanted brown eyes that seemed to penetrate her soul. A sudden spasm of fear hit Sheila, and she struggled to hide it. The stranger saw it though, and displayed a small grin that scared her more.

"Now there is a good chance you may not be in the proper frame of mind or conscious to hear this later on, so I will tell you now the crux of this lesson. Stay away from Betty Conrad. I do not want you near her or near the garage. You are not even going to bring your car there for a tune-up or to fix a flat tire. You are not to go anywhere near her assistant, Irena, either. Did you hear me?" The stranger asked. Sheila nodded, as much as she could with the claw hold on her jaw.

"And you are not sending anymore tramps to beat her up. Betty and Irena could defeat them with no problem just as I am sure they could each beat you with no problem, but they have other things to do with their time, like work for a living. They do not have time to deal with the likes of you. If you send anyone, I will hear about it. If you dare come within a hundred yards of the garage, I will know about it. And once I found out, the beating you got tonight will be nothing compared to what I will do to you. Understand?"

Sheila again nodded. She was partially grateful that woman's claw hold kept her from visibly shaking.

"Good, I see we understand each other," the woman said, releasing her hold. Sheila's head almost dropped hard on the pavement.

The woman stood up, and Sheila very carefully prepared herself to crawl to her car if necessary. That woman's a killer! Taking care of Betty or getting that title isn't worth that much trouble, it definitely wasn't worth her life, which was what she would lose if she didn't leave now. She carefully crawled her way to the car door, about to reach the handle, when the stranger walked up and kicked her in the side, her bare toes landing under her right arm. The force of the kick landed Sheila on her back, and it did something to her arm. It didn't want to work right. She needed to get some medical help now. She looked at her antagonist.

"Where are you going?" The stranger asked.

"Y-You taught me the lesson," Sheila stuttered. "I won't go anywhere near Betty, Irena, or send anymore people after her, I swear."

"I know that," the woman replied, standing over Sheila, and then kneeling down on her chest, the sudden weight made her ribs scream with pain. "But I did not say the lesson was over. In my experience, people like you tend to be a little hardheaded when you tell them the first time, so I need to give you a little taste of what will happen if you did not heed my warning."

While she was talking, the woman pulled up Sheila's T-shirt and rested her hand on her stomach. Without warning, the hand sunk its fingers into the stomach, making Sheila suddenly whimper in pain. The woman took the other hand and clamped her jaw again. Shaking her head slightly, the sunglasses fell back into place.

"One more thing, that look on your face; that scowl, I do not like it. That will need to be rearranged along with almost everything else on you. Do not worry; you will be able to eat solid food with your own teeth. And you will regain the use of your limbs again, but not for a while. The lesson is about to begin." The stranger released her hold on her jaw, and pulled back that same hand, forming a fist. Sinking her fingers further into Sheila's stomach, the stranger prepared herself to strike a blow.

"Noooo!" Sheila cried.

If you have read this far, I hope you liked the story. This isn't my last one; I have plans for more, God willing, but this story was going to be the turning point for several of my characters. Future tales will reveal what those are. Regarding references, I believe I included about half the stories on my bookshelf. If you would like to know the proper order, just check my Reader's Guide to Barefoot Heroines.

Writing this story has been a joy, and a test of endurance and stamina. Plus now I know what regular authors go through when they try to edit what they have. It's not easy trying to keep everything straight.

One thing I can say for sure, and that is this work wouldn't have came about if it wasn't for help and ideas I received leading up to this point. To list a few names, Andrew Rue was very helpful when I first started out with Susan's stories (and Andrew, I'm writing that wedding story, I promise!). Tommy2164 (Bullygirl) was very helpful with character suggestions, like Sheila, for instance, and story ideas for three or four of my early ones. Big Bomber I also have to thank, because if it wasn't for a story suggestion on the writer's board of an short Asian woman who was strong, yet not a bodybuilder, LS never would've came into being. Gaily, I thank you for being the cheerleader in my corner. You don't know how encouraging a little "rah-rah" can be at the right time. A big thank you to the public libraries in my area, and the Net for martial arts research (it's always a good idea to sound like you know what you're talking about; fight scenes take work!). There's others (I apologize for forgetting your names) whose suggestions, complements, and even criticism have been a big help to me. I even thank that one author whose writings I didn't think were very good, which was actually the motivation that got me into this mess in the first place. Woman, this is your fault! At least I think it's a woman. To give a hint who this is, the name starts with V (not "Valkyrie'), and that's all I'll say about that. Of course I give a tremendous debt of gratitude to Diana the Valkyrie, or whatever your real name is, for letting me post all this stuff in the first place.

There are also many writers, from the more popular to the "one-hit wonders" who were helpful for motivation and inspiration. And most of all, I thank you, the readers for even taking the time to explore my part of the library and checking out a tale or two. If I gave you some enjoyment in your day, it was worth it.

That being said, if you have any comments, suggestions, story ideas, new characters, scripts, movies, screenplays, novels, or TV pilots for me to do (ha-ha), then send me an e-mail at shrewsberry@juno.com.

#2008, Barefoot Heroines, Inc.