[FIC] And in This Corner (part 3 of 5) {Chapter 29}
Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2003 11:46 pm
Kaname stirred one pot while carefully watching another. She wanted to have everything done before Sousuke arrived, so they could spend some pleasant moments eating together. She had thrown together things that Sousuke liked, happy to think that she might do something that would please him.
When her work in the kitchen was finished, she went to clear the table of her handiwork. She had constructed a number of targets...put together some ancillary items...and collected some special items. Kaname was determined to have some fun today, win or lose. She packed the items carefully into a number of shopping bags and went about setting the table.
She thought back to her most recent visit to the TDD-1. It was a memorable stay, to say the least. She learned something about herself that day, and she had been an opportunity to view Sousuke in a different light, from a different perspective. What he meant to her. What he might mean to others. And what he might want for himself. Kaname might not be proud of her behavior with Tessa, but she was certainly glad to gain new insight.
She also thought back to their successful mission against Kurz. She laughed happily: there was more than one positive thing to come out of all that mess: Oh Yeh!
Kaname paused to think about the day's events. She remembered the first time she and Sousuke had visited Joe's shooting range. A special day for them both!!! And, she thought back to the numerous days that she and Sousuke had spent there training, preparing Kaname as best they could. Those had been good days too...sure, a majority of the time had been spend practicing, but there had been time for walks, dinners, and visits to small shops.
Thinking about Sousuke brought to mind the prize at stake for today's competition. She wondered how Sousuke must be feeling. He was, after all, the prize.
Kaname was relieved that Sousuke had returned home safe from both Malaysia and Cambodia. But, no matter how many missions he went on...and despite the fact that he kept returning safely...she was afraid she might lose him every time he shouldered that bag odf his and headed off into the sunset.
Sousuke had given he---and was giving her---some of the happiest times in her life. His presence gifted her with a sense of security she had never known before. But, he also carried an obvious aura of uncertainty around him. The chaos and unpredictability that he projected---simply by being who he was---had a rather disruptive effect on the small and certain world Kaname wanted to build. Or thought she did.
Was she doing the right thing, risking her heart the way she was? That was always the first question, and the one that sped her mind awhirl. Was the uncertainty any greater than that in any teenage relationship? That second question always calmed her down.
Was their relationship the best thing for Sousuke?
Kaname thought back to some of the things Tessa had said during their confrontation. What amount of uncertainty did Kaname inject tinto the relationship? And how did that uncertainty effect Sousuke and the the world he was beginning to explore.
Was there only one outcome today that would be best for Sousuke? Was there only one outcome that would be the best for her own self? Could she learn something about herself...and about Sousuke...if they actually lost? What might Sousuke learn?
Was she at a greater risk of losing Sousuke today, than she had been when he was Indonesia and Asia? That thought sent tiny shivers coursing down her spine.
Kaname also thought about her father and sister, both of whom would be returning to Japan for a visit in the not too distant future. Wouldn't they be surprised to know what she was doing today! Wouldn't they be shocked at all the things that had happened to her. What might they think when they met Sousuke?
What might Sousuke think, if she made it a point to introduce him? Would there still be reason to introduce him?
*************************************************************
Sousuke closed and locked the gun case, having finsished his final preparations. He packed away extra clips of ammunition into his carry bag, along with a number of items that Kaname had asked him to find. Looking over at his desk top, he reminded himself that he had a small bouquet of flowers to bring her as well.
Thinking of Kaname, he smiled, recalling their recent training sessions. She was getting good! And, he thought about all of the preparations that she had gone through getting ready for today. The competition obviously meant a lot to her.
Sousuke considered Kaname's feelings about the contest. He knew she would give it her best, simply because of who she was. He smiled, thinking about that side of her. He also knew that she was defending her interest in him, in her way. That gave him a pleasant feeling of warmth..
Gathering up his gear, Sousuke left his apartment and headed off towards Kaname's place. On the way, he thought of another reason Kaname had trained so hard: she did NOT want Tessa to win.
Tessa. What role might Tessa have in his life after today? Would things stay the same, both the good and the bad? What positive things might be at risk today? Or...might things get better, either from the results of the contest, or from the time that they would spend together: Kaname and Tessa...Tessa and himself...everyone, together?
Sousuke thought back to something Tessa had asked him. She had wondered if Sousuke had ever thought about how a trophy might feel. He certainly did have reason to think about THAT during the the past few days.
Sousuke also made quite certain that both Kaname and Tessa gave thought to that subject as well. There was more at stake here today than victory or defeat....
The contest would be challenging, but it should prove entertaining as well. He knew that Joe would be glad to see them. Sousuke had given Joe the basic guidelines that Kaname and Tessa had hammered out...and as the guest referee, Joe would set the boundaries for the individual games the ladies had come up with.
Six rounds, two with each class of weapon. Kaname and himself against Tessa and Kurz. Knowing his and Kurz' relative skills, Sousuke figured that the ultimate outcome would rest on the shoulders of the two competitive young women. He would check all of their bags to make certain no pillows were brought along. Then again, with guns readily available....
*************************************************************
Riding in the back of the Mithril limosine, Tessa checked herself in her pocket mirror, making certain things were just right. She knew there were more important things to worry about than her looks...but she put great importance on that as well. If she was going to fall short today, she would be certain to make the best possible impression nonetheless!
She would pick up Kurz from his hotel room, and ride with him to the chosen venue. As she had yielded that choice to Kaname---and her choice was practical as well as convenient---Tessa had gained for herself the right to choose her partner. She had seriously considered selecting Sousuke: that choice would have given her an opportunity to spend a lot of private time with him while training. But, she had no doubt that he would have been very business like, and had no idea just what opportunities she might have to further their relationship in that kind of environment. Knowing Kurz' prowess at sharpshooting, he seemed the logical choice: today's prize meant more to Tessa than inconsequential moments spent with Sousuke.
Tessa thought about the prize. Victory would bring something she wanted very much, even if the genesis of that opportunity would be artificial. Of course, the penalty of failure carried a dangerous cost. Were she and Kurz victorious, she would win a date with Sousuke. A real date, not just a hollow formality. Were they to fail, Tessa would stop trying to catch Sousuke's attention...at least as long as he and Kaname were together!
Tessa checked herself in her mirror again. She thought about image. She thought about how people must view her. How did that differ from what she was? How did that differ from what she might want to be?
Would today's event convince Sousuke that she was merely another soldier, and an officer at that? Or, might the way she carried herself---and the the way she interacted with everyone---give him the opportunity to see her as something different...see that she really wasn't all that different from Kaname, even though the the two of them certainly had different characteristics.
Tessa also hoped that she would gain the opportunity to get a better view of herself. What did she really want in regards to a career? What did she really need in a relationship? Should she follow the path she had started down, or should she consider a new road? She smiled, remembering a famous quote attributed to Yogi Berra: 'when you come to a fork in the road...take it!'
For a moment, she was frantic, wondering if she had forgotten the targets she and Kurz had gotten the graphics department to help them with. Her breathing slowed, and her heart stopped racing, when she remembered putting them in the trunk of the car. She knew that Kurz would enjoy the targets. She hoped that Kaname and Sousuke would NOT...in war, any little advantage might turn the tide of battle.
As the car headed onwards towards the destination, Tessa took time to think about her conrontation with Kaname. There were things there to learn about herself. Things to learn about Kaname. And things to consider about Sousuke. What did they all want and need. What dominoes might fall after today?
*************************************************************
Kurz had long since finished with his mirror. He hadn't needed too much time...after all, he WAS the Amazing Kurz Weber. Waiting on the street for the car to arrive, his gun case at his feet, he thought about the day's competition.
Tessa had chosen him to be her partner...a wise choice! Was there a better marksmen with rifles anywhere on God's green earth? How could there be?!! Sousuke was good---no doubt about that--but he was not in Kurz' class. Then again, Sousuke was the very devil with a pistol in hand, so the day ought to prove entertaining.
It would probably come down to the cute little Captain and the lovely young schoolgirl! Oh yeh! That would be fun to watch, alright! And it would be nice to see some shooting, too...
Kurz had been surprised by Tessa's new found proficiency. She really threw herself into her training. Sousuke had worked with her in the past, but hadn't mentioned any special aptitude. Kurz correctly guessed that the prize at hand had a lot to do with her determination.
He had tried to take advantage of that desire, asking what prize would be available for HIM if they won. Tessa had short-circuited that attempt, saying that he was fortunate not to be a full time kitchen boy after the stunt he had pulled. She obviously was not of the opinion that their gang-tackle of him at the French restaurant evened the score. Damn.
Tessa had also made it quite clear what would happen to Kurz if she ever suspected that he gave anything less than his best today. She need not have worried. Kurz thought the world of Sousuke and Kaname, but he wanted Tessa to win today. Not just for her sake-- he DID feel she deserved to have some things in her life that were currently denied her. No---there was more to be won here today.
Sousuke's life would become more interesting if Tessa won. And even if Tessa didn't win, his good buddy Kurz would make certain to liven up things for him today!
Oh yeh! Kurz could hardly wait.
*************************************************************
Kaname and Sousuke had waited outside of Joe's place until Tessa and Kurz arrived. They all headed into the shop together---after Kurz had made a lot of noise, slapping Sousuke on the back and draping himself over Kaname---and after the two young ladies had exchanged terse and hurried greetings.
Joe was waiting at the counter when they walked in, and he was obviously delighted to see Kaname and Sousuke. He gave Kaname a big kiss, and caused her to blush by calling her 'his little girl.' He shook Souske's hand, and mussed his hair in fatherly fashion. Sousuke made him laugh by saluting and reporting for inspection.
"Before we give you and your guns a once over, soldier...let me get to know these other folks here!" Joe was talking loud, and smiling big. "What a beautiful young lady," Joe said to Tessa. "You must certainly be the prize here today!" Tessa did not see the wink Joe gave Kaname.
Tessa blushed, curtsied, and held out her hand. After Joe had kissed her hand, she said "My name is Tessa. I am very pleased to meet you. Sousuke has had fine things to say about you." She exchanged some brief pleasantries with Joe, before he turned his attention to Kurz.
"Is this your sherpa, Tessa?" Joe asked. "When do you expect your partner to show up?" Kurz did not look pleased at that comment.
"No, sir. He is my partner. May I introduce Kurz Weber, probably the best marksman I have had the pleasure to meet?"
"Better than the youngster over there?" Joe asked, nodding towards Sousuke.
"Yes." Tessa sounded very certain. "A good bit better, in fact."
"Well then, there might be something to him after all...despite that hair and that look. I was afraid he might want me to kiss HIS hand!" Joe was laughing, obviously joking. He had not expected Sousuke, Kaname, and Tessa to laugh as loud and as long as they did.
Seeing Joe's look, Kaname said "It's a long story. We'll tell you later."
"Not if I have a gun in my hand," said Kurz, thunderstorms gathering on his face.
"Ahhh...that must be some story then...thanks lad, you REALLY make me want to hear it now!!! OK, folks, lets see what you brought with you today!" Joe cleared some books and papers off of the countertop.
Kurz grumbled, thinking that Joe obviously did not yet have the proper respect for THE Kurz Weber.
Sousuke hefted his case up on to the counter, unlocking it and opening it in quick econonomic movements.
Sousuke took a rifle out of the case. "Yes...an HK PSG-1 sniper rifle...very nice, very nice..." Joe started.
Smiling, Kaname quickly chirped "7.62 mm NATO standard ammunition...single shot...5 round magzine...much like Sousuke: rugged, dependable, and accurate!"
Joe smiled so widely, that it was no difficult task to count his teeth. "Wow! That's my girl. It does my old heart good...."
Kaname leaned around Sousuke to make a face at Tessa, who was caught of guard, frowning.
Sousuke left the Glock 17 and the TMP in the case...Joe was very much familiar with those weapons. After Sousuke took his case down, Joe spoke to Kurz. "Need my help lifting that case up here, son?" His large grin did not ingratiate him with Kurz, but he did start Tessa giggling. Joe winked at Tessa, who smiled in return.
"Why do I get the feeeling that it's the world versus Kurz Weber" Kurz asked sourly.
"Probably because it is." Kaname laughed as she spoke, and bowed when Joe gave her a thumb's up. "But we all love him just the same."
"Won't hold that against you, Miss Kaname. I like you TOO much. But Sousuke...you and I need to talk someday!!!" Joe shook his head in mock disappointment.
When Kurz opened his case, he noted with satisfaction that Joe had a true respect for what he had chosen.
"SIG 226 pistol...ugly, but gets the job done." That brought a nod from Joe.
Tessa picked up the pistol...broke it down...and put it back together again. That earned her a kiss and a round of applause from Joe. Tessa turned to make a face at Kaname, who made it a point to hug Sousuke.
Kurz removed a submachine gun. "HK MP5," Joe said. Kurz nodded.
"Another good choice, Joe said. You must have picked that out, right Miss Tessa?" Kurz clenched his teeth, and palced the gun back in the case.
"And this is my baby," Kurz said with a wide grin. "Custom made in the Swiss alps, based on the Suisse SSR 4000. Very expensive...remarkably accurate...but somewhat difficult to control...Just like Kurz Weber! Five round clip of 7.62 mm. 5X scope."
"Well, you might be worth something after all..." Joe said, handling the rifle, sighting down the scope, checking the action.
"See Tessa, I knew he'd come around. It's alweays just a matter of time!" Kurz hooked his thumbs in his belt rings and struck a pose.
"I said MIGHT..." Joe said, laughing at the subsequent look on Tessa's face.
He sighed, looking at Tessa and Kaname.
"Anything wrong, Joe? Is there a problem?" Sousuke sounded concerned.
"No lad...I was just looking at the young gals here. The one..." he said, looking at Kaname, "...looks like a pretty little filly raised to run." That brought a large smile from Kaname, who said "Take NOTES, Sousuke."
"And..the other looks like a pretty little filly raised for show." Tessa smiled as well, and got Kaname's ire up by saying "Yes...take notes, Sousuke!"
"Ahhh...makes me wish I was young again...but then I would have had to kill you two lads, and take both of the ladies for my self!"
"Take NOTES, Sousuke" Kaname and Tessa spoke at the exact same time...glowering at each other when they were done.
"Are we going to need a first aid kit?" Joe asked, knowingly.
*************************************************************
Joe took the time to show the facilities to the two newcomers.
"Thank you, Joe...a very nice set-up" Tessa said. "I also want to thank you for letting us come here today, and for serving as our referee.
Before Joe could answer, another voice called out "Do you have room for another official?" It was Melissa, who was carrying a rather large cooler.
"Melissa. Babe. What are you doing HERE?!" Kurz asked. "Not that I'm unhappy to see you. On the contrary, any chance to see your sweet and delicious curves is another day in heaven. Oh yeh!"
Melissa earned Joes instant respect by kneeing Kurz in the groin, and swinging him about with her fingers in his nostrils. When she had flung Kurz roughly to the floor, she wiped off her had, and offered it to Joe.
"Please to meet you mam...I must say I like your style. I'm Joe, and I run this place. Are you a friend of this crew?" Instinctually, Joe formed a quick and accurate assessment of Melissa.
"Some of them," she said with a large smile, flicking the ashes off of a cigarette and on to Kurz's head. Thinking a moment, she added a kick as well.
"You wound me, sis!" Kurz moaned, holding his belly.
"No...THAT comes later."
Joe filled the room with a loud guffaw. "Yes...I really AM glad to meet you! What's in the cooler, young lady?"
"Beer," Melissa replied, opening the lid. "Is it alright if I drink this here? I figured this kind of show deserved something cold and refreshing. I'd be happy to share."
"Well...I usually do not allow drinks in here...but you said the magic word. The shooters can't have any...but no reason we can't enjoy ourselves."
"You're a good man Joe!" Melissa said. She repeated herself when Joe went and grabbed a bottle of Vodka and two shot glasses.
While Melissa and Joe got themselves situated, Sousuke and Kaname walked up to great their friend and ask her why she was in town. Tessa joined them, but already knew the answer. She had called Melissa and let her know what was going on today.
Kurz kept to a safe distance.
"I was at the hospital for physical therapy," she answered, showing them the cane she had with her. "Not so certain they would be pleased with me carrying this cooler...but, I figure there's more than one to get better."
"Amen" a smiling Joe added. "Cheers."
*************************************************************
Joe and Melissa set up a small operations center around an oaken table and the cooler. They had a score sheet, and a pair of spotter's glasses. There was a red flag to signal 'miss,' and a green flag to signal 'hit.' They both resonated with a strong sense of anticipation.
"First off, let's all consider ourselves friends here." Joe smiled, waving his arms to encompass everyone present. "And, as my friends, I am certain you will follow the house rules I have described. I trust you will accept Melissa and my judgement, and I trust you will NOT question our calls."
Everyone nodded their heads. Melissa took over for a moment. "We have detailed all of the contests for you. You will alternate in the choice of targets, which I see you have thoughtfully provided. You will shoot in the order we decide, and you will stand down whenever we might say. Some of the six rounds can end in a draw. According, should all six rounds end with a tie in total score, Joe will arrange for a final match event...restricted to Tessa and Kaname, our principal contestants here today. Do you have any questions?" No one did. "Kurz...there HAS to be something YOU wanted to say!"
"No, babe! I was just sitting here enraptured by your authoratative beauty. As always, I am yours to command!"
"Shit," Melissa said under her breath. Joe patted her shoulder and offered her another beer.
Joe stood up, and toasted Sousuke with his shot glass. "Son...seeing that you are the prize here today..." Joe's smile was lopsided, and not because of drink. He was proud of Sousuke. And, envious. "Are there any words you would like to say before we get started?" Both Kaname and Tessa looked at Sousuke intently, then looked at each other with a scowl.
Sousuke scratched his head a moment.
"First, I would like to thank both officials. I respect both of you as if you were my family. Maybe even more than family." Joe and Melissa touched their beer cans together and thanked Sousuke.
"Seccond, I would like to say I am glad to be with friends today." He looked at Kaname, Kurz, and Tessa. They all smiled, but Tessa blushed as well...she was happy to be included in Sousuke's group of friends.
"Finally...I would like to hope that whatever the outcome, we can all say that we gave it our best today...and we will all accept the outcome with as much grace as possible." Everyone joined in for a round of applause when he was finished.
"I helped him with that speech, you know..." Kurz said, patting Sousuke on the shoulder. Souske shook his head.
Kurz jumped when Melissa swung her cane against the cooler, the resultant noise echoing through the taget range. Kurz said nothing in return.
"Oh...and one more thing, if I may." Sousuke put in. When everyone nodded, he said "I hope WE win..." He didn't smile, but Kaname did.
"That's the spirit!!!" Joe said. Melissa smiled.
*************************************************************
Melissa stood up, leaning on her cane. She took a moment to light up a smoke and pass it to Joe, who gladly accepted it. She then lit one for herself.
"The first round will use pistols. Like every other round, it will be guys against guys, gals against gals. For the sake of simplicity, Kurz...we'll include you in with the guys!" Everyone one laughed...except Kurz, who muttered something particullary obscene under his breath.
"Kurz...later, you WILL tell me what you just said. And, you know what to expect!" Kurz was a slow learner.
"Now, as for the round. Based on what Tessa and Kaname selected, we will base things on a game called FOLLOW ME." Kurz nodded his head, having played that game in paintball matches.
In each same sex pair, both shooters will have a chance to start as lead shooter. There will be six targets per shooter. If the first shooter hits, the second must hit the equivalent target. If the second shooter misses, the first shooter is awarded a point. If the first shooter misses, the positions are switched, and the other shooter gains the opportunity to collect points. Each pair will shoot until all targets are hit, and then they will switch positions as stated. The highest combined team score wins. Do you all understand the rules?"
All contestants signalled that they understood.
Joe cleared his voice, and took a moment to interupt the proceedings. "I've been thinking. I've taken a strong liking to you. Most of you. And I would like to offer my own prizes for the winning team."
"Sousuke...if you win, I would like you to have my trusty old M1 from Nam. It would mean a lot if I could pass that on to you." Sousuke consented, trully touched by the gesture.
"Kaname...if you win, I'd like to make a little contribution to your college fund." Kaname was taken aback. She walked up and gave Joe a kiss on the cheek.
"I hope you took note of that, Tessa. If you win...I would like to give you a small piece of jewelry that my mother left me. I had been keeping it in case I ever had a daughter." Blushing, Tessa ran up to give him a hug AND a quick kiss on the cheek.
Joe looked over at Kaname. To her credit, she caught on fast. She ran up to give Joe a hug, evening the ledger. Joe beamed.
"Kurz. You sure as hell better not try to hug me OR kiss me." Joe patted a holster at his side. "If you win...I will give you my first book on body building. I have it out on the shelf." Kurz mumbled. "On second thought, I better give you ALL of my books on body building!!!"
Melissa laughed, clapped her hands together, and gave Joe a long kiss. Joe was in heaven.
Sousuke walked up to shake Joe's hand.
"Et tu, Souske" Kurz said, shaking his head.
Melissa stood up, and made certain she had everyone's attention. "In the spirit of generosity, I feel compelled to offer awards to the winners as well."
"Sousuke...if you win, I will give you my diary on Kurz' misadventures with women. It's a long read, but I figure it will serve as a good 'How NOT-to guide.'"
"Kaname...if you win, I will buy you dinner one night, and tell you all the embarrassing Sousuke-stories I now."
Kaname looked all together too enthusiastic for Sousuke's liking. Kurz pointed a finger at Sousuke, as if to say 'welcome to the club, brother.'
"Tessa...if you win I will make completely certain that Sousuke knows exactly what is expected of him on your date...and what the penalty for failure is."
Tessa clapped. Kurz howled. Sousuke and Kaname looked as if they had eaten something bitter.
"And Kurz...if you win...from the goodness of my heart...I will give you a 'Get Out Of Ass Kickin' Free' card. Good for only one usage."
"Only one card, babe?" Kurz asked hopefully.
"It's MORE than you deserve. But, after all, I am a goddess of generosity, right?"
Kurz didn't answer. He hadn't won that card that card yet!
*************************************************************
Flipping his empty vodka bottle in the air repatedly, and catching it behind his back, Joe continued on with the preparation for the first round.
"Sousuke, I gather that you and your young lady slected the targets for this round?" Kaname smiled at his wording. Tessa did not.
"Yes, sir" Sousuke added, touching Kaname lighly on her arm.
"I have them here," Kaname stated, reaching for one of her bags. She showed the targets to everyone there.
"For the ladies," she said, holding up targets with pictures of mimes in the bullseyes. Sousuke smiled. He knew all too well about Kaname and mimes.
"And for the men...and Kurz," she added, holding up similar targets, but with a different picture. At the center of each, there was a picture of Kurz and Lt. Concepcion. Kurz was pictured wearing a dress.
"And," Kaname said, rummaging in the bottom of ther bag, "I brought something appropriate for the occasion." She handed everyone a napkin, a knife and a fork. She then passed around assorted French pastries courtesy of the folks at the Fountainbleu restaurant. "Everyone there sends their regards, Kurz. You're welcome back any time!"
Kurz grumbled, saying he wasn't hungry.
Melissa whistled loudly, clapping her hands. "OH YEH!!!" she said.
"Kurz, you're up" Melissa called, signalling Joe to get his flags ready.
"Wait a second..." Kaname put in, running to her other bag. "There's more to these targets!" Joe smiled. He was having a fine time.
Kaname put a small black box up on the counter in front of the firing lane.
She opened it up...it was a portable CD player. She placed a disk inside and closed the lid.
"What's that for?" Tessa asked. We never said anything about music...or noise!"
"It's like an interactive target, Tessa. You're not chickening out already are you...I would gladly accept a forfeit!" Kaname looked over at Joe, who put his head together with Melissa to confer.
"We'll allow it...as long as the same thing plays for each shooter." Tessa knew better than to argue.
"First, if you will all please rise...for 'Paraguayos, Republica o muerte,' the national anthem of the grand nation of Paraguay!" Kaname started the music playing. "This track is for us all...the next is for the pleasure of our shooters."
Kaname waited until Kurz had stepped up to take position, followed a moment later by Sousuke. Kurz looked decidely peeved. Excellent!
When Kurz signalled he was ready, Kaname cued the next track...choice exerpts from the soundtrack to "Just Desserts."
Kurz's voice was clearly identifiable. So was Casimira's, for those who knew her. "This is the story we promised you Joe..." Kaname smiled, and bowed to Joe.
"Oh yeh!!!" exclaimed Joe.
Joes's laughetr got louder and louder through the first run, as he heard such choice bits as:
*..."Flakey...chicken...light...and feminine"
*..."Not every female is woman enough to be Kurz Weber"
*....Flowers for all the ladies.
*....The disappointed dancer.
*....The sailors prefering the pretty one.
*....The young boy looking for a girlfriend.
*..."M-m-masculine!"
*..."Where can they find someone better...everywhere!"
*"...Finely sculptured!"
*....And the hits kept on coming.
The first run, started by Kurz, ended scoreless. Sousuke prepared to take his turn as the lead shooter.
Kurz, who had held his own with Sousuke, was determined to hold his own with Kaname as well, As Sousuke prepared to fire, Kurz winked at Tessa and said. "Soooo...Sousuke, old pal. Did you ever tell Kaname what you and Casimira did when she came to visit your room the other night. You two were in there a LONG time. And she came out with a mighty big smile! Oh yeh!" He waved to Kaname and smiled. "Did someone beat Kaname to the punch? Is that why your voice sounds deeper these days?!! Heh heh heh!"
Sousuke looked nonplussed...until Kaname got into the act.
"SOUSUKE!!!" Kaname had gone from zero-to-steamed in nothing flat. "SOUSKE SAGARA!!!" Tessa had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing.
"Uh--"
"You'd better have something better that 'Uh'!"
"Uh---"
"SOUSUKE!!!" Kaname held the halisen now.
"Uh--I'll tell you later, OK!" Sousuke said. Kaname cooled down when she caught a wink that only she could see.
Souske, his heart rate slowing back to normal, once more approached the line. After he and Kurz shot again, Sousuke walked a way with one point. That earned Sousuke a quick kiss.
Tessa walked up to the line for her start. She repeated a quiet mantra, trying to keep from breathing too quickly. Just as she was about to fire, the door to the range opened, and a number of people started walking through, intent on getting to a different gallery. The gun instructor stopped to chat with Joe, who then waved him along. His class, a group of mimes who had banded together to form a self-defense course, followed quickly in his wake. All save one.
One mime had recognized Kaname. Only too well!!! He stood there silently and defiantly, glaring at her. Kaname, for her part, had no doubt who her watcher was. She never forgot a mime!!!
"Oh, so nice to see you again! I think you might be very...interested...in one of the targets we are using today." She showed the mime one of the targets with a mime bullseye. He started to shiver.
"Oh...and a friend of yours is here today..." When Kaname pulled Sousuke into the mime's field of vision, he was still holding his pistol.
"Oh Shit!!!" the mime yelled, running first after his class, then back towards the exit, and then after his class again. He was clearly indecisive.
"You're welcome to stay..." Kaname said sweetly, "...in case we run out of targets!"
The mime ran full speed towards the exit. They could all hear a loud crash and some other noises coming from the direction he had run.
"What?" Kaname smiled, when Sousuke looked at her questioningly.
When the first run with Tessa was complete, Kaname had collected her team point. Tessa took Kaname's celebratory dance with as much good grace as possible. Kurz looked on, a wicked gleam in his eye.
Kaname stepped to the line, clearly enjoying herself. Kurz stepped just behind her, clearly up to no good. He turned to face Sousuke, just as Kaname prepared to fire.
"Sooo...Sousuke...I have a question for you. When you are with Kaname, when DO you exactly have your erections?!" Paydirt!
Kurtz laughed as Kaname missed, and Tessa took over as lead shooter.
"Uh--" That from both Sousuke AND Kaname!
"Is it when she bends over...?" Kurz said lugubriously. Tessa jerked a small bit, and her shot missed as well. She sent an accusing look in Kurz' direction. Kurz just smiled and shrugged his shoulders.
"Is there more?!" Kaname asked.
"Of course not, babe....you can trust old Kurz" Kurz paused, waiting for Kaname to perepare to fire. "Or, Sousuke, is it when she licks her lips real slow and gives you THAT look?"
Kaname made the shot that time, and gave Kurz a self-satisfied "Humpf!."
This time, Kurz was quiet while Tessa shot.
Melissa walked over and clamped a hand over Kurz' mouth, nodding to Kaname, who then signalled her thanks. However, Kurz was able to hit a tender spot and break free. Melissa added assorted painful punishments to her tally for Kurz.
"Or is it when she leans back on the couch and spreads her legs reeeaaallll slow?" Kaname had to be restrained from pointing the pistol at Kurz. Sousuke made a big show of picking up and loading the TMP.
Kurz decided he had done his best. The run ended with Kaname gaining another point, giving 'Team Kaname' three total points and a victory in the first round. Melissa told Kurz that he could consider his still being alive a victory of sorts.
Kurz was forced to agree.
At first, Sousuke had reason to feel pleased. Some things just don't last, however. Kaname came up to him and whispered into his ear "Sousuke...think of the answers to Kurz' questions..we may want to discuss them some day...."
Sousuke decided that Kurz may not live too much longer!
*************************************************************
"That certainly was a lot of fun!!!" Joe said jovially, passing out some gum to anyone wanting some. "The shooting was fine too!!!"
"Cheer up, Kurz!!!" Melissa called out to Kurz, who was still frowning. "You'll probably lose this round too!"
"Melissa!!!" That from Tessa. "I thought you were my friend. And an impartial official!"
"Sorry Tess...you know I love you, but we're talking about Kurz. Right?! I can NEVER be impartial towards Kurz by definition! Some people are born with greatness...other people achieve greatness...and some people have greatness thrusted upon them...."
"Yup! Key word, babe. Greatness! I knew you would understand." Kurz should have known better.
Melissa looked to Tessa and continued. "...Then there are other folks: some people are born deserving to have their asses kicked...others achieve ass-kickings...and others will have a whole shitload of ass-kickings thrust upon them!!!" Kurz decided to stay quiet. He had a sinking feeling that his special exemption card would be like a small island in a great big ocean of hurt.
"Lets move on to round two. A game of RAPID FIRE. This one will have six targets per shooter, and will call for the use of submachine guns." Melissa nodded to Tessa, who started getting her targets ready.
"The ladies will have their clips loaded with a total of 30 rounds. The men twenty." Melissa held up her fingers, counting slowly for Kurz' benefit.
"You missed one, Sis!!!" Kurz said, giving Melissa the finger.
"Joe" Melissa asked, "what is the penalty for game misconduct?"
"Well...let's see. I'd say a smack from the pretty young lady..." Joe nodded towards Kaname and her halisen, "...or you could cut off his nads and feed them to him!"
Melissa took a while to consider, while Kaname and Joe chuckled, and Tessa blushed. "We don't have time to look for something THAT small..." Melissa said with a straight face. "Kaname, if you would be so kind!"
Kaname walked up towrads Kurz, swaying her hips as she went. "Oh...Kurzie...I have been waiting SO long to give this to you..."
"Babe...I thought you were my friend!" Kurz held his arms out as if hoping for a hug.
"Yes...you ARE my friend...that's why you only get Sousuke Level Three..." she smacked Kurz hard enought to rock him back on his heals.
"How many levels are there, Kaname?" Melissa looked truly intersted.
"Ten!" Kaname said. Both Kurz and Tessa looked at Sousuke with looks of great sympathy.
"Hear that Kurz...we're going to switch over to a level system, too! I think you've had enough at level one...what do you think?" Melissa said cheerfully. No one looked sympathetic towards Kurz.
Joe just sat back, smiling, soaking it all in. If these folks were good friends, he certainly did NOT ever want to be their enemy!!!
"Let's get back to being serious now," Melissa said, daring anyone to contradict her. "Each shooter will have the number of rounds specified. No more. Feel free to use less if you like!"
Melissa nodded to Joe, who picked up where she left off "Hit as many targets as you can. Highest total of team hits at the end of the round wins. Who has the targets for this round?"
"Kurz and Tessa," Melissa answered.
Tessa took her targets out of her large bag. Kurz was already chuckling. "You're going to LOVE these, Kaname!"
Kaname looked at Sousuke, who gave her arm a squeeze. "It's OK to go to Sousuke Level Four later, if you like. There's a twenty-five percent chance that you will not break sergeant Weber in two." Kaname smiled, and gave Sousuke a quick hug. Kurz took a couple of steps back.
"We have a mix of targets...the same for for the ladies and the gentlemen." Tessa said. "The graphics department did a fine job on these...I'm certain we will ALL agree...right Kaname?" Kaname just grinned, patting HER bag of targets.
Kurz took over as master of ceremonies. He picked up the first type of target, parading it around for everyone one to see. He mentioned Kaname and Tessa's little altercation, and explained the related references.
The first target type showed the picture of a large submarine sandwhich. The words "AIM HIGH" were situated above the hoagie, and the name "KANAME" was located below.
"Get it, Kaname. Aim high, so that you can some day be the best damn deli queen in the city...AND...aim high, as in 'miss the target!'" Kurz laughed happily, and added "Oh...I kill me!!!"
"I wish." That from Joe, Melissa, Sousuke, and Kaname. Tessa looked like she wished she could join the party too.
"Oh, and this one is great, too!" Kurz held up a large picture of Kaname as a crossing guard. The caption read 'I HATE BEING ABANDONED' on top and 'I EVEN MISS MYSELF!' "Oh yeh...should I explain it to you, Kaname babe? You know...I miss myself, as in you you would feel bad if you were gone...and 'I miss myself' as in missing the shot! Tessa, let's get down with our bad selves!!!"
Kurz held out his hand for Tessa to give him five. She handed him targets instead. "Is it too late to change partners?" she asked.
"SORRY!!!" Joe and Melissa both answered.
"Tessa babe...I'm hurt!" Kurz looked over to Melissa who didn't need to say a word.
"OK...enough playtime children. Let's get this show on the road before I run out of beer!" Melissa sounded serious.
"Kaname, you're up..." Kaname took her turn, and finished with three targets hit.
"Alright, Kannnaaammmee...best one on OUR team!" Kurz said.
Sousuke did an admirable job of doing a stage whisper. "Sousuke Level Five" he said, loud enough for everyone to hear. That cheered Kaname up a little.
"Tessa, you're up..." Tessa took her turn, and finished with four targets hits.
"Go Tessa...go Tessa...go Tessa...Go Tessa...better than Kaname...But we knew that...go Tessa..." Kurz was into this round, alright. Sousuke held up six fingers.
"Sousuke, you're up..." Sousuke prepared to fire, grinning when Kaname blew him a kiss.
Just as Sousuke prepared to fire, Kurz asked a question. "So...Sousuke...have you had any thoughts about having sex with Kaname?"
Sousuke shot off a burst prematurely, but hit the spot. Tessa looked as if she almost swallowed her tongue. Kaname looked shocked at first, but then got a calculating look in her eyes. Melissa looked like the grim reaper checking her appointment book.
Sousuke had started to sweat. Kurz was living large.
Just as he could tell Sousuke was prepared to fire again, Kurz asked "So...Sousuke...when IS the big event." Fortunately, Sousuke hit the mark again.
Sousuke looked a plea to Kurz. Kurz just held up six fingers and smiled. When Souskuke tried to sneak a shot in fast, Kurz said "Hold onnnnn...what's the rush there soldier. I have another question for you, and I would NOT want it to interfere with your shot."
Kurz looked over at Kaname smiling, and asked Sousuke "So...old boy...before you get around to Kaname, are you STILL intending to practice first on long-haired noisy teenage hookers...or Melissssa?!!!:
Melissa jumped up quicker than anyone under rehabilitation had a right to. She sent Kurz sailing ass over teacup with a right cross. She then turned to Sousuke and said sweetly "No offense to you Sousuke...since both Mira and I agree it wouldn't take much..." She kissed Sousuke's cheek, and winked at an irate Kaname.
"Sis!!!"
"You want to play any more, Kurzie?" Melissa laughed a long satisfying laugh. She knew it would just egg him on...this was too much fun...she whispered an inaudible apology to Sousuke.
Sousuke hit the target.
Sousuke, still blushing, prepared to fire again. Kurz prepared to stick it to him once more. Kurz would have made a good prospecter back in the days of the California gold rush: he knew how to find the mother lode...and when he did, he was smart enough to concentrate his efforts there. And wasn't he just the best of friends? This was GOOD for Sousuke....
"Kaname...want me to give you an idea of what to expect in the future?" Kaname vigorously shook her head 'no.' "OK...whatever you want babe. Nothing's too good for you!" Kurz held up six fingers again...waited as Kaname held up only five fingers...waited when she dropped the number to four...and seeing that she would not go to three, he continued.
Imitating Kaname's voice, he said "Ohhh, Sousuke...I'm SOOO hot!" followed by an imitation of Sousuke saying "That could indicate a fever...better see a doctor." Then the Kaname voice again "And Sousuke...I'm SOOO wet!" followed by the Souske voice "How can that be Kaname...you didn't take a shower."
Both Sousuke and Kaname were blushing. Sousuke made the shot. Barely.
Before the next shot, Kurz was at it again. "Oh, Sousuke...touch my breast," followed by "But...Kaname...you have TWO breasts..you did NOT specify which one...I do NOT wish to make a mistake...please clarify your orders!" Chuckling, he continued. "Oh, Sousuke...I need you IN me!" was followed by "Kaname...is there a door?"
Another shot...another hit. Tessa was yelling for Kurz to stop, but he was on a roll. "Oh, Sousuke...DON'T STOP...DON'T E-V-E-R STOP!!!" was followed by "Kaname...you are making strange noises...are you defective?"
Sousuke was relieved when he had finished, feeling extremely fortunate to have hit all targets despite Kurz' best efforts.
Kurz chuckled heading up to the line. He KNEW that Sousuke wouldn't have a a suitable retribution for that, even if he wasn't so flustered. He laughed seeing the look Kaname and Sousuke gave each other. Yes, things were were on the way up for Kurz Weber!
Thump...............thump...............thump...............thump..........thump..........thump.....thump.....thump...thump...thump...thumpthumpthumpthump.
Kurz turned around to see what all the racket was. Melissa was banging her cane against the cooler. She answered his question before he even had opportunity to ask. "It's your heartbeat Kurz. I forgot to tell you before. Mira happens to be in town..." Melissa looked down at her watch before continuing, "...and I invited her to come watch. She should be here any moment!" she lied.
Kurz was a bit unsteady, making only five out of six targets.
The score that round was nine to nine. Draw!
Sousuke looked at Kaname a little uneasily. "Am I supposed to give you some answer for Kurz' first questions?"
"No," Kaname replied. "I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise. Besides, we're still working on 'if,' not 'when.' "
Sousuke felt relived. Or did he? Why did he feel like a bull with a ring in its nose???
*************************************************************
Before the start of round three, they all took a break for more pastry and some cold soda. Kurz did some stretching exercises. Tessa brushed her hair.
"Round three will require rifles," Joe started. "We'll be playing a variation of LONG SHOT. Each shooter will have a single target, with multiple smaller areas that need to be hit. Smallest number of total team shots needed to hit all areas wins."
"Kaname, if we may see that targets, please."
"Certainly, Joe. I have to thank Melissa for this, her photograph came in rather handy...in the end!"
"My pleasure, Kaname." Melissa smiled happily as she opened a beer. "I figured that photo would..end up... being useful some day."
Kaname held up a target. It was based on a picture of Kurz bending over, his rear end taking up most of the available space. Melissa cracked up, laughing so hard she had to hold her sides. "Well, Kurzie...haven't I always said you were going to shoot yourself in your ass some day?!!" She started laughing again, seemingly unable to stop.
Kurz turned angrily to Kaname, asking "Hey Kaname, what gives...what's the big idea with these targets?" He had noticed ten small coins glued to the mens' targets, and six pieces of paper money glued to each woman's target.
"I'm surprised, Kurz...haven't you heard the saying, 'put your money where your mouth is?' " It was Kaname's turn to laugh. She was soon joined by everyone but Kurz.
Kurz looked exceedingly miffed. "Well...let me make it up to you," Kaname said, an evil look in her eye. "If your team wins, I promise to kiss your derrierre. Long and sweet!"
Kurz' expression lit up after that. "Oh yeh! You must really want that...you know I can't lose!!!" Sousuke looked a bit unhappy...Kaname had not explained her plan to him.
"I'll add to that action," Melissa started, and Kurz punched a fist skyward, thinking Melissa was offering the same prize. It got better. Much better. "You've always wanted a piece of MY ass, Kurzie...if you make all of your targets in TEN shots...I'm ALL yours!"
That offer shocked Kurz right down to the bone. He looked as if he was about to melt into a puddle on the floor, or loose all controal and leave a puddle on the floor. "OOOOO-EEEEEEE-YEH!!! I knew it. I just KNEW that you wanted me, babe! This is Kurz Weber's LUCKY DAY!!! Let's get this party started." Kurz didn't see the wink Melissa gave a startled Tessa.
"Tessa, you're up..."
Tessa stepped up to the line, checked her rifle, and prepared to shoot. Just as she was about to shoot, Kaname asked "Hey Tessa...have you EVER been kissed?!" Tessa jumped, but still managed to hit her target.
As Tessa was about to fire her second shot, Kaname said " I meant with a BOY!!!" Tessa fliched, but made the shot.
She looked at Kaname and asked "Anything more." Kaname shook her head. Seeing Tessa settle her finger on the trigger, Kaname said "Oh yeh...I meant a boy who actually LIKED it!" Third shot. Third hit.
Tessa just tossed her hair, straightened her back in a stretch, and resumed her shooting stance. Just like clockwork, Kaname piped up again when Tessa was firing. "Didn't chip a tooth or break a leg DID you?!!!" A fourth consecutive hit.
That was all Kaname had to say. She figured silence would be hell enough...Tessa should be edgy, not knowing when or if she might say anything more. Tessa made her next two shots.
"Well, well, well...I must say you did well in the END, Tessa." Kaname laughed loudly, before heading over to give Sousuke another obvious kiss. Tessa, frowning, nodded to Kurz.
Kaname took the rifle Souske handed her, stepping up to take her turn. She said to Kurz "Oh..did I show you what I had painted on the stock?" She showed Kurz the rifle, with big white letters spelling out C-A-S-S-I-E. She laughed a long and raucous laugh.
Just as Kaname was about to fire, Kurz laughed loud as well, and Tessa said "No, Kurz. That sounded like a howler monkey...too QUIET to be Kaname!" She put emphasis on the word 'quiet' just as Kaname pulled the trigger. Kaname was releived. It was a hit.
As Kaname was starting her second shot, Kurz laughed again. "No Kurz," Tessa said "That was a Kookabura...too INTELLIGENT sounding for Kaname." Another shot. Another hit.
Another shot. Another raucous laugh. "No Kurz, that was a wild pig...too SEXY sounding to be Kaname!" Third shot. Same outcome.
Kurz was gasping for breath, trying not to laugh too soon. At the right moment, the loud laugh rang out again. "Kurz, that was a hyena...just PERFECT for Kaname!!!" Kaname gave thanks when Melissa cried "hit!" again.
Kaname turned to Sousuke. "Sousuke, aren't you going to DO something?"
"Kaname? I'm sorry...but I do not know any animal imitations..."
"SOUSUKE, YOU IMBECILE!!!" Kaname looked as if she wished she still held her halisen.
"Oh...I see..." Sousuke walked over to Kurz and Tessa. "Any more animal noises?" Both Tessa and Kurz said "No!" Sousuke walked back, looking smug, as if he had accomplished something. The look that Kaname gave him suggested he had not.
In blissful silence, Kaname made her final two shots. The two teams were even.
"Kurz, you're up...gentlemen, your shots need to touch center to count..."
"Start the drum roll! The time has come...the day Mama Weber's boy has been waiting for. You'll thank me Melissa...oh yeh! Again and again and again!!!"
Kurz whistled happily, walking up to the line. He was so intent, he didn't realize that Melissa had come up behind him. Melissa put her finger to her lips, silencing Tessa before she could say anything. Kaname had to fight to keep from smiling.
Just at the point Kurz started to pull the trigger, Melissa hooked her cane around his ankle and yanked, throwing off his shot.
"Miss!" Joe called out.
"OH YEH!!!" Melissa said, shaking her cane in the air. "The day that Mama Mao's girl had been waiting for!!! Easy come, easy go...right Kurzeroo?!!!"
Everybody laughed excpet Kurz. Kaname made certain her laugh was somewhat subdued. Kurz remained on the floor for a while, just hugging his knees to himself and mumbling. When he was ready to shoot, he finished off the targets in ten shots. Spot on.
"Sousuke, you're up..."
"Sousuke, want to place any bets?" Melissa asked sweetly.
"No!" Sousuke answered quickly. He strode to the line, and prepared to shoot. Just as he started to fire, Melissa clubbed him in the back.
"But...I did NOT make any bet!" Sousuke complained, having missed the shot.
"I know...I know...but fair's fair, even for Kurz. I cost him a shot...now you're even."
Sousuke clipped the edge of the eigth coin he shot at, missing center by a small fraction of an inch. It was enough to give that round to 'Team Tessa.'
"Well, at least some good will come out of this" Kurz said, his mood brightening remarkably. "Kaname, I'm ready to collect my well earned prize!!!" Kurz turned around, and presented his bottom for her tender attention.
"I always keep my promises," Kaname said puckering up. "Mm-mmm-m--mm-mmm-mm-m" she said, planting a long kiss on one of the targets. "I said I'd kiss your derrierre, Kurz...I just didn't say WHICH ONE!"
Sousuke looked relieved. Joe walked over to give Kaname a playful shake and a hug. Melissa bowed, sharing her moment of glory with Kaname. Tessa smiled, trying not to let Kurz see. Kurz just stood there with his mouth open.
"Cheer up, old man" Joe said, slapping Kurrz on the back. "You won this round!!!"
Nobody would EVER be able to convince Kurz of that!
*************************************************************
When her work in the kitchen was finished, she went to clear the table of her handiwork. She had constructed a number of targets...put together some ancillary items...and collected some special items. Kaname was determined to have some fun today, win or lose. She packed the items carefully into a number of shopping bags and went about setting the table.
She thought back to her most recent visit to the TDD-1. It was a memorable stay, to say the least. She learned something about herself that day, and she had been an opportunity to view Sousuke in a different light, from a different perspective. What he meant to her. What he might mean to others. And what he might want for himself. Kaname might not be proud of her behavior with Tessa, but she was certainly glad to gain new insight.
She also thought back to their successful mission against Kurz. She laughed happily: there was more than one positive thing to come out of all that mess: Oh Yeh!
Kaname paused to think about the day's events. She remembered the first time she and Sousuke had visited Joe's shooting range. A special day for them both!!! And, she thought back to the numerous days that she and Sousuke had spent there training, preparing Kaname as best they could. Those had been good days too...sure, a majority of the time had been spend practicing, but there had been time for walks, dinners, and visits to small shops.
Thinking about Sousuke brought to mind the prize at stake for today's competition. She wondered how Sousuke must be feeling. He was, after all, the prize.
Kaname was relieved that Sousuke had returned home safe from both Malaysia and Cambodia. But, no matter how many missions he went on...and despite the fact that he kept returning safely...she was afraid she might lose him every time he shouldered that bag odf his and headed off into the sunset.
Sousuke had given he---and was giving her---some of the happiest times in her life. His presence gifted her with a sense of security she had never known before. But, he also carried an obvious aura of uncertainty around him. The chaos and unpredictability that he projected---simply by being who he was---had a rather disruptive effect on the small and certain world Kaname wanted to build. Or thought she did.
Was she doing the right thing, risking her heart the way she was? That was always the first question, and the one that sped her mind awhirl. Was the uncertainty any greater than that in any teenage relationship? That second question always calmed her down.
Was their relationship the best thing for Sousuke?
Kaname thought back to some of the things Tessa had said during their confrontation. What amount of uncertainty did Kaname inject tinto the relationship? And how did that uncertainty effect Sousuke and the the world he was beginning to explore.
Was there only one outcome today that would be best for Sousuke? Was there only one outcome that would be the best for her own self? Could she learn something about herself...and about Sousuke...if they actually lost? What might Sousuke learn?
Was she at a greater risk of losing Sousuke today, than she had been when he was Indonesia and Asia? That thought sent tiny shivers coursing down her spine.
Kaname also thought about her father and sister, both of whom would be returning to Japan for a visit in the not too distant future. Wouldn't they be surprised to know what she was doing today! Wouldn't they be shocked at all the things that had happened to her. What might they think when they met Sousuke?
What might Sousuke think, if she made it a point to introduce him? Would there still be reason to introduce him?
*************************************************************
Sousuke closed and locked the gun case, having finsished his final preparations. He packed away extra clips of ammunition into his carry bag, along with a number of items that Kaname had asked him to find. Looking over at his desk top, he reminded himself that he had a small bouquet of flowers to bring her as well.
Thinking of Kaname, he smiled, recalling their recent training sessions. She was getting good! And, he thought about all of the preparations that she had gone through getting ready for today. The competition obviously meant a lot to her.
Sousuke considered Kaname's feelings about the contest. He knew she would give it her best, simply because of who she was. He smiled, thinking about that side of her. He also knew that she was defending her interest in him, in her way. That gave him a pleasant feeling of warmth..
Gathering up his gear, Sousuke left his apartment and headed off towards Kaname's place. On the way, he thought of another reason Kaname had trained so hard: she did NOT want Tessa to win.
Tessa. What role might Tessa have in his life after today? Would things stay the same, both the good and the bad? What positive things might be at risk today? Or...might things get better, either from the results of the contest, or from the time that they would spend together: Kaname and Tessa...Tessa and himself...everyone, together?
Sousuke thought back to something Tessa had asked him. She had wondered if Sousuke had ever thought about how a trophy might feel. He certainly did have reason to think about THAT during the the past few days.
Sousuke also made quite certain that both Kaname and Tessa gave thought to that subject as well. There was more at stake here today than victory or defeat....
The contest would be challenging, but it should prove entertaining as well. He knew that Joe would be glad to see them. Sousuke had given Joe the basic guidelines that Kaname and Tessa had hammered out...and as the guest referee, Joe would set the boundaries for the individual games the ladies had come up with.
Six rounds, two with each class of weapon. Kaname and himself against Tessa and Kurz. Knowing his and Kurz' relative skills, Sousuke figured that the ultimate outcome would rest on the shoulders of the two competitive young women. He would check all of their bags to make certain no pillows were brought along. Then again, with guns readily available....
*************************************************************
Riding in the back of the Mithril limosine, Tessa checked herself in her pocket mirror, making certain things were just right. She knew there were more important things to worry about than her looks...but she put great importance on that as well. If she was going to fall short today, she would be certain to make the best possible impression nonetheless!
She would pick up Kurz from his hotel room, and ride with him to the chosen venue. As she had yielded that choice to Kaname---and her choice was practical as well as convenient---Tessa had gained for herself the right to choose her partner. She had seriously considered selecting Sousuke: that choice would have given her an opportunity to spend a lot of private time with him while training. But, she had no doubt that he would have been very business like, and had no idea just what opportunities she might have to further their relationship in that kind of environment. Knowing Kurz' prowess at sharpshooting, he seemed the logical choice: today's prize meant more to Tessa than inconsequential moments spent with Sousuke.
Tessa thought about the prize. Victory would bring something she wanted very much, even if the genesis of that opportunity would be artificial. Of course, the penalty of failure carried a dangerous cost. Were she and Kurz victorious, she would win a date with Sousuke. A real date, not just a hollow formality. Were they to fail, Tessa would stop trying to catch Sousuke's attention...at least as long as he and Kaname were together!
Tessa checked herself in her mirror again. She thought about image. She thought about how people must view her. How did that differ from what she was? How did that differ from what she might want to be?
Would today's event convince Sousuke that she was merely another soldier, and an officer at that? Or, might the way she carried herself---and the the way she interacted with everyone---give him the opportunity to see her as something different...see that she really wasn't all that different from Kaname, even though the the two of them certainly had different characteristics.
Tessa also hoped that she would gain the opportunity to get a better view of herself. What did she really want in regards to a career? What did she really need in a relationship? Should she follow the path she had started down, or should she consider a new road? She smiled, remembering a famous quote attributed to Yogi Berra: 'when you come to a fork in the road...take it!'
For a moment, she was frantic, wondering if she had forgotten the targets she and Kurz had gotten the graphics department to help them with. Her breathing slowed, and her heart stopped racing, when she remembered putting them in the trunk of the car. She knew that Kurz would enjoy the targets. She hoped that Kaname and Sousuke would NOT...in war, any little advantage might turn the tide of battle.
As the car headed onwards towards the destination, Tessa took time to think about her conrontation with Kaname. There were things there to learn about herself. Things to learn about Kaname. And things to consider about Sousuke. What did they all want and need. What dominoes might fall after today?
*************************************************************
Kurz had long since finished with his mirror. He hadn't needed too much time...after all, he WAS the Amazing Kurz Weber. Waiting on the street for the car to arrive, his gun case at his feet, he thought about the day's competition.
Tessa had chosen him to be her partner...a wise choice! Was there a better marksmen with rifles anywhere on God's green earth? How could there be?!! Sousuke was good---no doubt about that--but he was not in Kurz' class. Then again, Sousuke was the very devil with a pistol in hand, so the day ought to prove entertaining.
It would probably come down to the cute little Captain and the lovely young schoolgirl! Oh yeh! That would be fun to watch, alright! And it would be nice to see some shooting, too...
Kurz had been surprised by Tessa's new found proficiency. She really threw herself into her training. Sousuke had worked with her in the past, but hadn't mentioned any special aptitude. Kurz correctly guessed that the prize at hand had a lot to do with her determination.
He had tried to take advantage of that desire, asking what prize would be available for HIM if they won. Tessa had short-circuited that attempt, saying that he was fortunate not to be a full time kitchen boy after the stunt he had pulled. She obviously was not of the opinion that their gang-tackle of him at the French restaurant evened the score. Damn.
Tessa had also made it quite clear what would happen to Kurz if she ever suspected that he gave anything less than his best today. She need not have worried. Kurz thought the world of Sousuke and Kaname, but he wanted Tessa to win today. Not just for her sake-- he DID feel she deserved to have some things in her life that were currently denied her. No---there was more to be won here today.
Sousuke's life would become more interesting if Tessa won. And even if Tessa didn't win, his good buddy Kurz would make certain to liven up things for him today!
Oh yeh! Kurz could hardly wait.
*************************************************************
Kaname and Sousuke had waited outside of Joe's place until Tessa and Kurz arrived. They all headed into the shop together---after Kurz had made a lot of noise, slapping Sousuke on the back and draping himself over Kaname---and after the two young ladies had exchanged terse and hurried greetings.
Joe was waiting at the counter when they walked in, and he was obviously delighted to see Kaname and Sousuke. He gave Kaname a big kiss, and caused her to blush by calling her 'his little girl.' He shook Souske's hand, and mussed his hair in fatherly fashion. Sousuke made him laugh by saluting and reporting for inspection.
"Before we give you and your guns a once over, soldier...let me get to know these other folks here!" Joe was talking loud, and smiling big. "What a beautiful young lady," Joe said to Tessa. "You must certainly be the prize here today!" Tessa did not see the wink Joe gave Kaname.
Tessa blushed, curtsied, and held out her hand. After Joe had kissed her hand, she said "My name is Tessa. I am very pleased to meet you. Sousuke has had fine things to say about you." She exchanged some brief pleasantries with Joe, before he turned his attention to Kurz.
"Is this your sherpa, Tessa?" Joe asked. "When do you expect your partner to show up?" Kurz did not look pleased at that comment.
"No, sir. He is my partner. May I introduce Kurz Weber, probably the best marksman I have had the pleasure to meet?"
"Better than the youngster over there?" Joe asked, nodding towards Sousuke.
"Yes." Tessa sounded very certain. "A good bit better, in fact."
"Well then, there might be something to him after all...despite that hair and that look. I was afraid he might want me to kiss HIS hand!" Joe was laughing, obviously joking. He had not expected Sousuke, Kaname, and Tessa to laugh as loud and as long as they did.
Seeing Joe's look, Kaname said "It's a long story. We'll tell you later."
"Not if I have a gun in my hand," said Kurz, thunderstorms gathering on his face.
"Ahhh...that must be some story then...thanks lad, you REALLY make me want to hear it now!!! OK, folks, lets see what you brought with you today!" Joe cleared some books and papers off of the countertop.
Kurz grumbled, thinking that Joe obviously did not yet have the proper respect for THE Kurz Weber.
Sousuke hefted his case up on to the counter, unlocking it and opening it in quick econonomic movements.
Sousuke took a rifle out of the case. "Yes...an HK PSG-1 sniper rifle...very nice, very nice..." Joe started.
Smiling, Kaname quickly chirped "7.62 mm NATO standard ammunition...single shot...5 round magzine...much like Sousuke: rugged, dependable, and accurate!"
Joe smiled so widely, that it was no difficult task to count his teeth. "Wow! That's my girl. It does my old heart good...."
Kaname leaned around Sousuke to make a face at Tessa, who was caught of guard, frowning.
Sousuke left the Glock 17 and the TMP in the case...Joe was very much familiar with those weapons. After Sousuke took his case down, Joe spoke to Kurz. "Need my help lifting that case up here, son?" His large grin did not ingratiate him with Kurz, but he did start Tessa giggling. Joe winked at Tessa, who smiled in return.
"Why do I get the feeeling that it's the world versus Kurz Weber" Kurz asked sourly.
"Probably because it is." Kaname laughed as she spoke, and bowed when Joe gave her a thumb's up. "But we all love him just the same."
"Won't hold that against you, Miss Kaname. I like you TOO much. But Sousuke...you and I need to talk someday!!!" Joe shook his head in mock disappointment.
When Kurz opened his case, he noted with satisfaction that Joe had a true respect for what he had chosen.
"SIG 226 pistol...ugly, but gets the job done." That brought a nod from Joe.
Tessa picked up the pistol...broke it down...and put it back together again. That earned her a kiss and a round of applause from Joe. Tessa turned to make a face at Kaname, who made it a point to hug Sousuke.
Kurz removed a submachine gun. "HK MP5," Joe said. Kurz nodded.
"Another good choice, Joe said. You must have picked that out, right Miss Tessa?" Kurz clenched his teeth, and palced the gun back in the case.
"And this is my baby," Kurz said with a wide grin. "Custom made in the Swiss alps, based on the Suisse SSR 4000. Very expensive...remarkably accurate...but somewhat difficult to control...Just like Kurz Weber! Five round clip of 7.62 mm. 5X scope."
"Well, you might be worth something after all..." Joe said, handling the rifle, sighting down the scope, checking the action.
"See Tessa, I knew he'd come around. It's alweays just a matter of time!" Kurz hooked his thumbs in his belt rings and struck a pose.
"I said MIGHT..." Joe said, laughing at the subsequent look on Tessa's face.
He sighed, looking at Tessa and Kaname.
"Anything wrong, Joe? Is there a problem?" Sousuke sounded concerned.
"No lad...I was just looking at the young gals here. The one..." he said, looking at Kaname, "...looks like a pretty little filly raised to run." That brought a large smile from Kaname, who said "Take NOTES, Sousuke."
"And..the other looks like a pretty little filly raised for show." Tessa smiled as well, and got Kaname's ire up by saying "Yes...take notes, Sousuke!"
"Ahhh...makes me wish I was young again...but then I would have had to kill you two lads, and take both of the ladies for my self!"
"Take NOTES, Sousuke" Kaname and Tessa spoke at the exact same time...glowering at each other when they were done.
"Are we going to need a first aid kit?" Joe asked, knowingly.
*************************************************************
Joe took the time to show the facilities to the two newcomers.
"Thank you, Joe...a very nice set-up" Tessa said. "I also want to thank you for letting us come here today, and for serving as our referee.
Before Joe could answer, another voice called out "Do you have room for another official?" It was Melissa, who was carrying a rather large cooler.
"Melissa. Babe. What are you doing HERE?!" Kurz asked. "Not that I'm unhappy to see you. On the contrary, any chance to see your sweet and delicious curves is another day in heaven. Oh yeh!"
Melissa earned Joes instant respect by kneeing Kurz in the groin, and swinging him about with her fingers in his nostrils. When she had flung Kurz roughly to the floor, she wiped off her had, and offered it to Joe.
"Please to meet you mam...I must say I like your style. I'm Joe, and I run this place. Are you a friend of this crew?" Instinctually, Joe formed a quick and accurate assessment of Melissa.
"Some of them," she said with a large smile, flicking the ashes off of a cigarette and on to Kurz's head. Thinking a moment, she added a kick as well.
"You wound me, sis!" Kurz moaned, holding his belly.
"No...THAT comes later."
Joe filled the room with a loud guffaw. "Yes...I really AM glad to meet you! What's in the cooler, young lady?"
"Beer," Melissa replied, opening the lid. "Is it alright if I drink this here? I figured this kind of show deserved something cold and refreshing. I'd be happy to share."
"Well...I usually do not allow drinks in here...but you said the magic word. The shooters can't have any...but no reason we can't enjoy ourselves."
"You're a good man Joe!" Melissa said. She repeated herself when Joe went and grabbed a bottle of Vodka and two shot glasses.
While Melissa and Joe got themselves situated, Sousuke and Kaname walked up to great their friend and ask her why she was in town. Tessa joined them, but already knew the answer. She had called Melissa and let her know what was going on today.
Kurz kept to a safe distance.
"I was at the hospital for physical therapy," she answered, showing them the cane she had with her. "Not so certain they would be pleased with me carrying this cooler...but, I figure there's more than one to get better."
"Amen" a smiling Joe added. "Cheers."
*************************************************************
Joe and Melissa set up a small operations center around an oaken table and the cooler. They had a score sheet, and a pair of spotter's glasses. There was a red flag to signal 'miss,' and a green flag to signal 'hit.' They both resonated with a strong sense of anticipation.
"First off, let's all consider ourselves friends here." Joe smiled, waving his arms to encompass everyone present. "And, as my friends, I am certain you will follow the house rules I have described. I trust you will accept Melissa and my judgement, and I trust you will NOT question our calls."
Everyone nodded their heads. Melissa took over for a moment. "We have detailed all of the contests for you. You will alternate in the choice of targets, which I see you have thoughtfully provided. You will shoot in the order we decide, and you will stand down whenever we might say. Some of the six rounds can end in a draw. According, should all six rounds end with a tie in total score, Joe will arrange for a final match event...restricted to Tessa and Kaname, our principal contestants here today. Do you have any questions?" No one did. "Kurz...there HAS to be something YOU wanted to say!"
"No, babe! I was just sitting here enraptured by your authoratative beauty. As always, I am yours to command!"
"Shit," Melissa said under her breath. Joe patted her shoulder and offered her another beer.
Joe stood up, and toasted Sousuke with his shot glass. "Son...seeing that you are the prize here today..." Joe's smile was lopsided, and not because of drink. He was proud of Sousuke. And, envious. "Are there any words you would like to say before we get started?" Both Kaname and Tessa looked at Sousuke intently, then looked at each other with a scowl.
Sousuke scratched his head a moment.
"First, I would like to thank both officials. I respect both of you as if you were my family. Maybe even more than family." Joe and Melissa touched their beer cans together and thanked Sousuke.
"Seccond, I would like to say I am glad to be with friends today." He looked at Kaname, Kurz, and Tessa. They all smiled, but Tessa blushed as well...she was happy to be included in Sousuke's group of friends.
"Finally...I would like to hope that whatever the outcome, we can all say that we gave it our best today...and we will all accept the outcome with as much grace as possible." Everyone joined in for a round of applause when he was finished.
"I helped him with that speech, you know..." Kurz said, patting Sousuke on the shoulder. Souske shook his head.
Kurz jumped when Melissa swung her cane against the cooler, the resultant noise echoing through the taget range. Kurz said nothing in return.
"Oh...and one more thing, if I may." Sousuke put in. When everyone nodded, he said "I hope WE win..." He didn't smile, but Kaname did.
"That's the spirit!!!" Joe said. Melissa smiled.
*************************************************************
Melissa stood up, leaning on her cane. She took a moment to light up a smoke and pass it to Joe, who gladly accepted it. She then lit one for herself.
"The first round will use pistols. Like every other round, it will be guys against guys, gals against gals. For the sake of simplicity, Kurz...we'll include you in with the guys!" Everyone one laughed...except Kurz, who muttered something particullary obscene under his breath.
"Kurz...later, you WILL tell me what you just said. And, you know what to expect!" Kurz was a slow learner.
"Now, as for the round. Based on what Tessa and Kaname selected, we will base things on a game called FOLLOW ME." Kurz nodded his head, having played that game in paintball matches.
In each same sex pair, both shooters will have a chance to start as lead shooter. There will be six targets per shooter. If the first shooter hits, the second must hit the equivalent target. If the second shooter misses, the first shooter is awarded a point. If the first shooter misses, the positions are switched, and the other shooter gains the opportunity to collect points. Each pair will shoot until all targets are hit, and then they will switch positions as stated. The highest combined team score wins. Do you all understand the rules?"
All contestants signalled that they understood.
Joe cleared his voice, and took a moment to interupt the proceedings. "I've been thinking. I've taken a strong liking to you. Most of you. And I would like to offer my own prizes for the winning team."
"Sousuke...if you win, I would like you to have my trusty old M1 from Nam. It would mean a lot if I could pass that on to you." Sousuke consented, trully touched by the gesture.
"Kaname...if you win, I'd like to make a little contribution to your college fund." Kaname was taken aback. She walked up and gave Joe a kiss on the cheek.
"I hope you took note of that, Tessa. If you win...I would like to give you a small piece of jewelry that my mother left me. I had been keeping it in case I ever had a daughter." Blushing, Tessa ran up to give him a hug AND a quick kiss on the cheek.
Joe looked over at Kaname. To her credit, she caught on fast. She ran up to give Joe a hug, evening the ledger. Joe beamed.
"Kurz. You sure as hell better not try to hug me OR kiss me." Joe patted a holster at his side. "If you win...I will give you my first book on body building. I have it out on the shelf." Kurz mumbled. "On second thought, I better give you ALL of my books on body building!!!"
Melissa laughed, clapped her hands together, and gave Joe a long kiss. Joe was in heaven.
Sousuke walked up to shake Joe's hand.
"Et tu, Souske" Kurz said, shaking his head.
Melissa stood up, and made certain she had everyone's attention. "In the spirit of generosity, I feel compelled to offer awards to the winners as well."
"Sousuke...if you win, I will give you my diary on Kurz' misadventures with women. It's a long read, but I figure it will serve as a good 'How NOT-to guide.'"
"Kaname...if you win, I will buy you dinner one night, and tell you all the embarrassing Sousuke-stories I now."
Kaname looked all together too enthusiastic for Sousuke's liking. Kurz pointed a finger at Sousuke, as if to say 'welcome to the club, brother.'
"Tessa...if you win I will make completely certain that Sousuke knows exactly what is expected of him on your date...and what the penalty for failure is."
Tessa clapped. Kurz howled. Sousuke and Kaname looked as if they had eaten something bitter.
"And Kurz...if you win...from the goodness of my heart...I will give you a 'Get Out Of Ass Kickin' Free' card. Good for only one usage."
"Only one card, babe?" Kurz asked hopefully.
"It's MORE than you deserve. But, after all, I am a goddess of generosity, right?"
Kurz didn't answer. He hadn't won that card that card yet!
*************************************************************
Flipping his empty vodka bottle in the air repatedly, and catching it behind his back, Joe continued on with the preparation for the first round.
"Sousuke, I gather that you and your young lady slected the targets for this round?" Kaname smiled at his wording. Tessa did not.
"Yes, sir" Sousuke added, touching Kaname lighly on her arm.
"I have them here," Kaname stated, reaching for one of her bags. She showed the targets to everyone there.
"For the ladies," she said, holding up targets with pictures of mimes in the bullseyes. Sousuke smiled. He knew all too well about Kaname and mimes.
"And for the men...and Kurz," she added, holding up similar targets, but with a different picture. At the center of each, there was a picture of Kurz and Lt. Concepcion. Kurz was pictured wearing a dress.
"And," Kaname said, rummaging in the bottom of ther bag, "I brought something appropriate for the occasion." She handed everyone a napkin, a knife and a fork. She then passed around assorted French pastries courtesy of the folks at the Fountainbleu restaurant. "Everyone there sends their regards, Kurz. You're welcome back any time!"
Kurz grumbled, saying he wasn't hungry.
Melissa whistled loudly, clapping her hands. "OH YEH!!!" she said.
"Kurz, you're up" Melissa called, signalling Joe to get his flags ready.
"Wait a second..." Kaname put in, running to her other bag. "There's more to these targets!" Joe smiled. He was having a fine time.
Kaname put a small black box up on the counter in front of the firing lane.
She opened it up...it was a portable CD player. She placed a disk inside and closed the lid.
"What's that for?" Tessa asked. We never said anything about music...or noise!"
"It's like an interactive target, Tessa. You're not chickening out already are you...I would gladly accept a forfeit!" Kaname looked over at Joe, who put his head together with Melissa to confer.
"We'll allow it...as long as the same thing plays for each shooter." Tessa knew better than to argue.
"First, if you will all please rise...for 'Paraguayos, Republica o muerte,' the national anthem of the grand nation of Paraguay!" Kaname started the music playing. "This track is for us all...the next is for the pleasure of our shooters."
Kaname waited until Kurz had stepped up to take position, followed a moment later by Sousuke. Kurz looked decidely peeved. Excellent!
When Kurz signalled he was ready, Kaname cued the next track...choice exerpts from the soundtrack to "Just Desserts."
Kurz's voice was clearly identifiable. So was Casimira's, for those who knew her. "This is the story we promised you Joe..." Kaname smiled, and bowed to Joe.
"Oh yeh!!!" exclaimed Joe.
Joes's laughetr got louder and louder through the first run, as he heard such choice bits as:
*..."Flakey...chicken...light...and feminine"
*..."Not every female is woman enough to be Kurz Weber"
*....Flowers for all the ladies.
*....The disappointed dancer.
*....The sailors prefering the pretty one.
*....The young boy looking for a girlfriend.
*..."M-m-masculine!"
*..."Where can they find someone better...everywhere!"
*"...Finely sculptured!"
*....And the hits kept on coming.
The first run, started by Kurz, ended scoreless. Sousuke prepared to take his turn as the lead shooter.
Kurz, who had held his own with Sousuke, was determined to hold his own with Kaname as well, As Sousuke prepared to fire, Kurz winked at Tessa and said. "Soooo...Sousuke, old pal. Did you ever tell Kaname what you and Casimira did when she came to visit your room the other night. You two were in there a LONG time. And she came out with a mighty big smile! Oh yeh!" He waved to Kaname and smiled. "Did someone beat Kaname to the punch? Is that why your voice sounds deeper these days?!! Heh heh heh!"
Sousuke looked nonplussed...until Kaname got into the act.
"SOUSUKE!!!" Kaname had gone from zero-to-steamed in nothing flat. "SOUSKE SAGARA!!!" Tessa had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing.
"Uh--"
"You'd better have something better that 'Uh'!"
"Uh---"
"SOUSUKE!!!" Kaname held the halisen now.
"Uh--I'll tell you later, OK!" Sousuke said. Kaname cooled down when she caught a wink that only she could see.
Souske, his heart rate slowing back to normal, once more approached the line. After he and Kurz shot again, Sousuke walked a way with one point. That earned Sousuke a quick kiss.
Tessa walked up to the line for her start. She repeated a quiet mantra, trying to keep from breathing too quickly. Just as she was about to fire, the door to the range opened, and a number of people started walking through, intent on getting to a different gallery. The gun instructor stopped to chat with Joe, who then waved him along. His class, a group of mimes who had banded together to form a self-defense course, followed quickly in his wake. All save one.
One mime had recognized Kaname. Only too well!!! He stood there silently and defiantly, glaring at her. Kaname, for her part, had no doubt who her watcher was. She never forgot a mime!!!
"Oh, so nice to see you again! I think you might be very...interested...in one of the targets we are using today." She showed the mime one of the targets with a mime bullseye. He started to shiver.
"Oh...and a friend of yours is here today..." When Kaname pulled Sousuke into the mime's field of vision, he was still holding his pistol.
"Oh Shit!!!" the mime yelled, running first after his class, then back towards the exit, and then after his class again. He was clearly indecisive.
"You're welcome to stay..." Kaname said sweetly, "...in case we run out of targets!"
The mime ran full speed towards the exit. They could all hear a loud crash and some other noises coming from the direction he had run.
"What?" Kaname smiled, when Sousuke looked at her questioningly.
When the first run with Tessa was complete, Kaname had collected her team point. Tessa took Kaname's celebratory dance with as much good grace as possible. Kurz looked on, a wicked gleam in his eye.
Kaname stepped to the line, clearly enjoying herself. Kurz stepped just behind her, clearly up to no good. He turned to face Sousuke, just as Kaname prepared to fire.
"Sooo...Sousuke...I have a question for you. When you are with Kaname, when DO you exactly have your erections?!" Paydirt!
Kurtz laughed as Kaname missed, and Tessa took over as lead shooter.
"Uh--" That from both Sousuke AND Kaname!
"Is it when she bends over...?" Kurz said lugubriously. Tessa jerked a small bit, and her shot missed as well. She sent an accusing look in Kurz' direction. Kurz just smiled and shrugged his shoulders.
"Is there more?!" Kaname asked.
"Of course not, babe....you can trust old Kurz" Kurz paused, waiting for Kaname to perepare to fire. "Or, Sousuke, is it when she licks her lips real slow and gives you THAT look?"
Kaname made the shot that time, and gave Kurz a self-satisfied "Humpf!."
This time, Kurz was quiet while Tessa shot.
Melissa walked over and clamped a hand over Kurz' mouth, nodding to Kaname, who then signalled her thanks. However, Kurz was able to hit a tender spot and break free. Melissa added assorted painful punishments to her tally for Kurz.
"Or is it when she leans back on the couch and spreads her legs reeeaaallll slow?" Kaname had to be restrained from pointing the pistol at Kurz. Sousuke made a big show of picking up and loading the TMP.
Kurz decided he had done his best. The run ended with Kaname gaining another point, giving 'Team Kaname' three total points and a victory in the first round. Melissa told Kurz that he could consider his still being alive a victory of sorts.
Kurz was forced to agree.
At first, Sousuke had reason to feel pleased. Some things just don't last, however. Kaname came up to him and whispered into his ear "Sousuke...think of the answers to Kurz' questions..we may want to discuss them some day...."
Sousuke decided that Kurz may not live too much longer!
*************************************************************
"That certainly was a lot of fun!!!" Joe said jovially, passing out some gum to anyone wanting some. "The shooting was fine too!!!"
"Cheer up, Kurz!!!" Melissa called out to Kurz, who was still frowning. "You'll probably lose this round too!"
"Melissa!!!" That from Tessa. "I thought you were my friend. And an impartial official!"
"Sorry Tess...you know I love you, but we're talking about Kurz. Right?! I can NEVER be impartial towards Kurz by definition! Some people are born with greatness...other people achieve greatness...and some people have greatness thrusted upon them...."
"Yup! Key word, babe. Greatness! I knew you would understand." Kurz should have known better.
Melissa looked to Tessa and continued. "...Then there are other folks: some people are born deserving to have their asses kicked...others achieve ass-kickings...and others will have a whole shitload of ass-kickings thrust upon them!!!" Kurz decided to stay quiet. He had a sinking feeling that his special exemption card would be like a small island in a great big ocean of hurt.
"Lets move on to round two. A game of RAPID FIRE. This one will have six targets per shooter, and will call for the use of submachine guns." Melissa nodded to Tessa, who started getting her targets ready.
"The ladies will have their clips loaded with a total of 30 rounds. The men twenty." Melissa held up her fingers, counting slowly for Kurz' benefit.
"You missed one, Sis!!!" Kurz said, giving Melissa the finger.
"Joe" Melissa asked, "what is the penalty for game misconduct?"
"Well...let's see. I'd say a smack from the pretty young lady..." Joe nodded towards Kaname and her halisen, "...or you could cut off his nads and feed them to him!"
Melissa took a while to consider, while Kaname and Joe chuckled, and Tessa blushed. "We don't have time to look for something THAT small..." Melissa said with a straight face. "Kaname, if you would be so kind!"
Kaname walked up towrads Kurz, swaying her hips as she went. "Oh...Kurzie...I have been waiting SO long to give this to you..."
"Babe...I thought you were my friend!" Kurz held his arms out as if hoping for a hug.
"Yes...you ARE my friend...that's why you only get Sousuke Level Three..." she smacked Kurz hard enought to rock him back on his heals.
"How many levels are there, Kaname?" Melissa looked truly intersted.
"Ten!" Kaname said. Both Kurz and Tessa looked at Sousuke with looks of great sympathy.
"Hear that Kurz...we're going to switch over to a level system, too! I think you've had enough at level one...what do you think?" Melissa said cheerfully. No one looked sympathetic towards Kurz.
Joe just sat back, smiling, soaking it all in. If these folks were good friends, he certainly did NOT ever want to be their enemy!!!
"Let's get back to being serious now," Melissa said, daring anyone to contradict her. "Each shooter will have the number of rounds specified. No more. Feel free to use less if you like!"
Melissa nodded to Joe, who picked up where she left off "Hit as many targets as you can. Highest total of team hits at the end of the round wins. Who has the targets for this round?"
"Kurz and Tessa," Melissa answered.
Tessa took her targets out of her large bag. Kurz was already chuckling. "You're going to LOVE these, Kaname!"
Kaname looked at Sousuke, who gave her arm a squeeze. "It's OK to go to Sousuke Level Four later, if you like. There's a twenty-five percent chance that you will not break sergeant Weber in two." Kaname smiled, and gave Sousuke a quick hug. Kurz took a couple of steps back.
"We have a mix of targets...the same for for the ladies and the gentlemen." Tessa said. "The graphics department did a fine job on these...I'm certain we will ALL agree...right Kaname?" Kaname just grinned, patting HER bag of targets.
Kurz took over as master of ceremonies. He picked up the first type of target, parading it around for everyone one to see. He mentioned Kaname and Tessa's little altercation, and explained the related references.
The first target type showed the picture of a large submarine sandwhich. The words "AIM HIGH" were situated above the hoagie, and the name "KANAME" was located below.
"Get it, Kaname. Aim high, so that you can some day be the best damn deli queen in the city...AND...aim high, as in 'miss the target!'" Kurz laughed happily, and added "Oh...I kill me!!!"
"I wish." That from Joe, Melissa, Sousuke, and Kaname. Tessa looked like she wished she could join the party too.
"Oh, and this one is great, too!" Kurz held up a large picture of Kaname as a crossing guard. The caption read 'I HATE BEING ABANDONED' on top and 'I EVEN MISS MYSELF!' "Oh yeh...should I explain it to you, Kaname babe? You know...I miss myself, as in you you would feel bad if you were gone...and 'I miss myself' as in missing the shot! Tessa, let's get down with our bad selves!!!"
Kurz held out his hand for Tessa to give him five. She handed him targets instead. "Is it too late to change partners?" she asked.
"SORRY!!!" Joe and Melissa both answered.
"Tessa babe...I'm hurt!" Kurz looked over to Melissa who didn't need to say a word.
"OK...enough playtime children. Let's get this show on the road before I run out of beer!" Melissa sounded serious.
"Kaname, you're up..." Kaname took her turn, and finished with three targets hit.
"Alright, Kannnaaammmee...best one on OUR team!" Kurz said.
Sousuke did an admirable job of doing a stage whisper. "Sousuke Level Five" he said, loud enough for everyone to hear. That cheered Kaname up a little.
"Tessa, you're up..." Tessa took her turn, and finished with four targets hits.
"Go Tessa...go Tessa...go Tessa...Go Tessa...better than Kaname...But we knew that...go Tessa..." Kurz was into this round, alright. Sousuke held up six fingers.
"Sousuke, you're up..." Sousuke prepared to fire, grinning when Kaname blew him a kiss.
Just as Sousuke prepared to fire, Kurz asked a question. "So...Sousuke...have you had any thoughts about having sex with Kaname?"
Sousuke shot off a burst prematurely, but hit the spot. Tessa looked as if she almost swallowed her tongue. Kaname looked shocked at first, but then got a calculating look in her eyes. Melissa looked like the grim reaper checking her appointment book.
Sousuke had started to sweat. Kurz was living large.
Just as he could tell Sousuke was prepared to fire again, Kurz asked "So...Sousuke...when IS the big event." Fortunately, Sousuke hit the mark again.
Sousuke looked a plea to Kurz. Kurz just held up six fingers and smiled. When Souskuke tried to sneak a shot in fast, Kurz said "Hold onnnnn...what's the rush there soldier. I have another question for you, and I would NOT want it to interfere with your shot."
Kurz looked over at Kaname smiling, and asked Sousuke "So...old boy...before you get around to Kaname, are you STILL intending to practice first on long-haired noisy teenage hookers...or Melissssa?!!!:
Melissa jumped up quicker than anyone under rehabilitation had a right to. She sent Kurz sailing ass over teacup with a right cross. She then turned to Sousuke and said sweetly "No offense to you Sousuke...since both Mira and I agree it wouldn't take much..." She kissed Sousuke's cheek, and winked at an irate Kaname.
"Sis!!!"
"You want to play any more, Kurzie?" Melissa laughed a long satisfying laugh. She knew it would just egg him on...this was too much fun...she whispered an inaudible apology to Sousuke.
Sousuke hit the target.
Sousuke, still blushing, prepared to fire again. Kurz prepared to stick it to him once more. Kurz would have made a good prospecter back in the days of the California gold rush: he knew how to find the mother lode...and when he did, he was smart enough to concentrate his efforts there. And wasn't he just the best of friends? This was GOOD for Sousuke....
"Kaname...want me to give you an idea of what to expect in the future?" Kaname vigorously shook her head 'no.' "OK...whatever you want babe. Nothing's too good for you!" Kurz held up six fingers again...waited as Kaname held up only five fingers...waited when she dropped the number to four...and seeing that she would not go to three, he continued.
Imitating Kaname's voice, he said "Ohhh, Sousuke...I'm SOOO hot!" followed by an imitation of Sousuke saying "That could indicate a fever...better see a doctor." Then the Kaname voice again "And Sousuke...I'm SOOO wet!" followed by the Souske voice "How can that be Kaname...you didn't take a shower."
Both Sousuke and Kaname were blushing. Sousuke made the shot. Barely.
Before the next shot, Kurz was at it again. "Oh, Sousuke...touch my breast," followed by "But...Kaname...you have TWO breasts..you did NOT specify which one...I do NOT wish to make a mistake...please clarify your orders!" Chuckling, he continued. "Oh, Sousuke...I need you IN me!" was followed by "Kaname...is there a door?"
Another shot...another hit. Tessa was yelling for Kurz to stop, but he was on a roll. "Oh, Sousuke...DON'T STOP...DON'T E-V-E-R STOP!!!" was followed by "Kaname...you are making strange noises...are you defective?"
Sousuke was relieved when he had finished, feeling extremely fortunate to have hit all targets despite Kurz' best efforts.
Kurz chuckled heading up to the line. He KNEW that Sousuke wouldn't have a a suitable retribution for that, even if he wasn't so flustered. He laughed seeing the look Kaname and Sousuke gave each other. Yes, things were were on the way up for Kurz Weber!
Thump...............thump...............thump...............thump..........thump..........thump.....thump.....thump...thump...thump...thumpthumpthumpthump.
Kurz turned around to see what all the racket was. Melissa was banging her cane against the cooler. She answered his question before he even had opportunity to ask. "It's your heartbeat Kurz. I forgot to tell you before. Mira happens to be in town..." Melissa looked down at her watch before continuing, "...and I invited her to come watch. She should be here any moment!" she lied.
Kurz was a bit unsteady, making only five out of six targets.
The score that round was nine to nine. Draw!
Sousuke looked at Kaname a little uneasily. "Am I supposed to give you some answer for Kurz' first questions?"
"No," Kaname replied. "I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise. Besides, we're still working on 'if,' not 'when.' "
Sousuke felt relived. Or did he? Why did he feel like a bull with a ring in its nose???
*************************************************************
Before the start of round three, they all took a break for more pastry and some cold soda. Kurz did some stretching exercises. Tessa brushed her hair.
"Round three will require rifles," Joe started. "We'll be playing a variation of LONG SHOT. Each shooter will have a single target, with multiple smaller areas that need to be hit. Smallest number of total team shots needed to hit all areas wins."
"Kaname, if we may see that targets, please."
"Certainly, Joe. I have to thank Melissa for this, her photograph came in rather handy...in the end!"
"My pleasure, Kaname." Melissa smiled happily as she opened a beer. "I figured that photo would..end up... being useful some day."
Kaname held up a target. It was based on a picture of Kurz bending over, his rear end taking up most of the available space. Melissa cracked up, laughing so hard she had to hold her sides. "Well, Kurzie...haven't I always said you were going to shoot yourself in your ass some day?!!" She started laughing again, seemingly unable to stop.
Kurz turned angrily to Kaname, asking "Hey Kaname, what gives...what's the big idea with these targets?" He had noticed ten small coins glued to the mens' targets, and six pieces of paper money glued to each woman's target.
"I'm surprised, Kurz...haven't you heard the saying, 'put your money where your mouth is?' " It was Kaname's turn to laugh. She was soon joined by everyone but Kurz.
Kurz looked exceedingly miffed. "Well...let me make it up to you," Kaname said, an evil look in her eye. "If your team wins, I promise to kiss your derrierre. Long and sweet!"
Kurz' expression lit up after that. "Oh yeh! You must really want that...you know I can't lose!!!" Sousuke looked a bit unhappy...Kaname had not explained her plan to him.
"I'll add to that action," Melissa started, and Kurz punched a fist skyward, thinking Melissa was offering the same prize. It got better. Much better. "You've always wanted a piece of MY ass, Kurzie...if you make all of your targets in TEN shots...I'm ALL yours!"
That offer shocked Kurz right down to the bone. He looked as if he was about to melt into a puddle on the floor, or loose all controal and leave a puddle on the floor. "OOOOO-EEEEEEE-YEH!!! I knew it. I just KNEW that you wanted me, babe! This is Kurz Weber's LUCKY DAY!!! Let's get this party started." Kurz didn't see the wink Melissa gave a startled Tessa.
"Tessa, you're up..."
Tessa stepped up to the line, checked her rifle, and prepared to shoot. Just as she was about to shoot, Kaname asked "Hey Tessa...have you EVER been kissed?!" Tessa jumped, but still managed to hit her target.
As Tessa was about to fire her second shot, Kaname said " I meant with a BOY!!!" Tessa fliched, but made the shot.
She looked at Kaname and asked "Anything more." Kaname shook her head. Seeing Tessa settle her finger on the trigger, Kaname said "Oh yeh...I meant a boy who actually LIKED it!" Third shot. Third hit.
Tessa just tossed her hair, straightened her back in a stretch, and resumed her shooting stance. Just like clockwork, Kaname piped up again when Tessa was firing. "Didn't chip a tooth or break a leg DID you?!!!" A fourth consecutive hit.
That was all Kaname had to say. She figured silence would be hell enough...Tessa should be edgy, not knowing when or if she might say anything more. Tessa made her next two shots.
"Well, well, well...I must say you did well in the END, Tessa." Kaname laughed loudly, before heading over to give Sousuke another obvious kiss. Tessa, frowning, nodded to Kurz.
Kaname took the rifle Souske handed her, stepping up to take her turn. She said to Kurz "Oh..did I show you what I had painted on the stock?" She showed Kurz the rifle, with big white letters spelling out C-A-S-S-I-E. She laughed a long and raucous laugh.
Just as Kaname was about to fire, Kurz laughed loud as well, and Tessa said "No, Kurz. That sounded like a howler monkey...too QUIET to be Kaname!" She put emphasis on the word 'quiet' just as Kaname pulled the trigger. Kaname was releived. It was a hit.
As Kaname was starting her second shot, Kurz laughed again. "No Kurz," Tessa said "That was a Kookabura...too INTELLIGENT sounding for Kaname." Another shot. Another hit.
Another shot. Another raucous laugh. "No Kurz, that was a wild pig...too SEXY sounding to be Kaname!" Third shot. Same outcome.
Kurz was gasping for breath, trying not to laugh too soon. At the right moment, the loud laugh rang out again. "Kurz, that was a hyena...just PERFECT for Kaname!!!" Kaname gave thanks when Melissa cried "hit!" again.
Kaname turned to Sousuke. "Sousuke, aren't you going to DO something?"
"Kaname? I'm sorry...but I do not know any animal imitations..."
"SOUSUKE, YOU IMBECILE!!!" Kaname looked as if she wished she still held her halisen.
"Oh...I see..." Sousuke walked over to Kurz and Tessa. "Any more animal noises?" Both Tessa and Kurz said "No!" Sousuke walked back, looking smug, as if he had accomplished something. The look that Kaname gave him suggested he had not.
In blissful silence, Kaname made her final two shots. The two teams were even.
"Kurz, you're up...gentlemen, your shots need to touch center to count..."
"Start the drum roll! The time has come...the day Mama Weber's boy has been waiting for. You'll thank me Melissa...oh yeh! Again and again and again!!!"
Kurz whistled happily, walking up to the line. He was so intent, he didn't realize that Melissa had come up behind him. Melissa put her finger to her lips, silencing Tessa before she could say anything. Kaname had to fight to keep from smiling.
Just at the point Kurz started to pull the trigger, Melissa hooked her cane around his ankle and yanked, throwing off his shot.
"Miss!" Joe called out.
"OH YEH!!!" Melissa said, shaking her cane in the air. "The day that Mama Mao's girl had been waiting for!!! Easy come, easy go...right Kurzeroo?!!!"
Everybody laughed excpet Kurz. Kaname made certain her laugh was somewhat subdued. Kurz remained on the floor for a while, just hugging his knees to himself and mumbling. When he was ready to shoot, he finished off the targets in ten shots. Spot on.
"Sousuke, you're up..."
"Sousuke, want to place any bets?" Melissa asked sweetly.
"No!" Sousuke answered quickly. He strode to the line, and prepared to shoot. Just as he started to fire, Melissa clubbed him in the back.
"But...I did NOT make any bet!" Sousuke complained, having missed the shot.
"I know...I know...but fair's fair, even for Kurz. I cost him a shot...now you're even."
Sousuke clipped the edge of the eigth coin he shot at, missing center by a small fraction of an inch. It was enough to give that round to 'Team Tessa.'
"Well, at least some good will come out of this" Kurz said, his mood brightening remarkably. "Kaname, I'm ready to collect my well earned prize!!!" Kurz turned around, and presented his bottom for her tender attention.
"I always keep my promises," Kaname said puckering up. "Mm-mmm-m--mm-mmm-mm-m" she said, planting a long kiss on one of the targets. "I said I'd kiss your derrierre, Kurz...I just didn't say WHICH ONE!"
Sousuke looked relieved. Joe walked over to give Kaname a playful shake and a hug. Melissa bowed, sharing her moment of glory with Kaname. Tessa smiled, trying not to let Kurz see. Kurz just stood there with his mouth open.
"Cheer up, old man" Joe said, slapping Kurrz on the back. "You won this round!!!"
Nobody would EVER be able to convince Kurz of that!
*************************************************************
waaaay too funny chapter dd!! I loved watching everyone bounce