Oh boy, here we go, a new story, welcome to my longest project ever Star Fox: Annihilation. This is a project I've been excited on for a long time and I'm happy to have the opportunity to at least try to write it out. This will be, hopefully, one of my best projects.
This story is based on a video game idea I had with the same name, Star Fox Annihilation. It follows the story I had pretty well with minor adjustments and adds in, so it'll obviously be long. The game was supposed to be open world, in a manner of speaking, similar to Mass Effect. Had to add in some romance scenes to make it work as a story, so we'll see if that works. I figured it'd be easier to do a story of the game than to actually have it turned into a game.
An important note, this story begins with Star Fox Adventures but that is only a minor part of this story, it'll lead into the main story pretty quick. So please do not stop reading after the ending of Adventures, it'll keep on going for a while after that.
This story also elements from one of my favorite original stories Fox's Unknown Daughter, mostly OCs like Daria Wilson - McCloud, Vixy Phoenix-McCloud, and Lord Zathora the Multiverse God of Destruction, and other characters. It also has some story elements from it as well, but I won't reveal those for now. I hope y'all enjoy those as much as I did.
Originally, this prologue included a scene with Zathora, receiving a vision of a coming threat, the main storyline. Unfortunately, I was having problems writing it out, so I decided to move it back to a later chapter, preferably shortly before Star Fox arrives on Corneria.
BTW, there are Verians in this story who belong to my friend Wingcommander Whitewolf. I don't really plan on describing their appearance much and I'm sorry about that. At best they'll play a minor role.
P.S. as I'm working on this story I may occasionally work on other stories so this work may progress slowly. I'm also trying to get through a very long period of writer's block. If it does I'm sorry for that.
Hope you enjoy the story.
Prologue
8 years after the Lylat Wars
Corneria, Military Headquarters
Fox yawned softly as his Arwing cleared the Cornerian atmosphere, ignoring the flames that surrounded him, knowing his shields kept him safe. Within moments the shields had the flames put out, leaving the Arwing untouched. Once the shaking stopped, Fox corrected his heading towards the Cornerian capital visible in the distance. Even though it was an easy flight Fox still had to concentrate on flying so he didn't fall asleep while flying.
"Fox, I'm going to make you pay for keeping me up so late." Peppy's angry voice crackled over the radio making Fox jump in his ship.
Fox turned his head to see Peppy's Arwing following close behind him. His Arwings was still smoking from exiting the atmosphere a little but the shields cleared that up quickly. In a moment, Peppy was flying right beside Fox, but far enough apart so they didn't accidentally collide. Fox could still look out his cockpit and see Peppy rubbing his eyes.
"It's not that late, Peppy." Fox shouted back, checking the clock in his cockpit. "It's only 2330."
"That's why I'm upset, it's way past my bed time."
"True, you've gotten so old that you're in bed by seven."
Fox heard Peppy laughing on the other head, making him smirk. "You're not wrong, I'm getting too old for this."
"Too old for what, the mercenary life or being up past eight?"
"Very funny foxie boy, you're lucky I don't knock your disrespectful ass out of the sky."
"Yeah, yeah, save it for the next training session old man." Fox smirked back sarcastically, getting a laugh from Peppy.
Despite wanting to continue their little spat Fox and Peppy remained quiet as they flew over Corneria. After a few minute the Cornerian Military Headquarters comes into view, flying just high enough to see it as Fox radioed for permission to land. From their position they could see the entire base, even though it was dark. Looking down Fox spotted the landing zone only to nearly gasp when he saw how full it was. Fox counted at least ten assault class battleships, seven support cruisers, and two massive carriers. To him it seemed as if an entire fleet had been massed at the base, which that could be exactly what's happening for all Fox knew. From what Fox could see the landing zone was so full there didn't appear to be a place to land.
"For this late there sure are a lot of ships docked." Peppy said over the radio.
"I know, if I didn't know better I'd say that Corneria's massing a fleet for an invasion."
"From the rumors I've heard they probably are."
"Oh, what rumors have you heard?" Fox asked, looking out his cockpit window at Peppy as he flew.
"Just stuff I've heard from my last poker night with Pepper, Presicent Stanford, and your step mother. Stanford mentioned something about massing a fleet to end the Venom threat once and for all."
Fox nearly gasped into the radio. It was well known throughout Lylat that there was still remnants of Venom's once great army scattered across the system, many still causing trouble. Even eighth years after the Lylat Wars had ended there were still Venom soldiers fighting solely because they didn't want to admit defeat. Currently, they were little more than a nusiance, many considered them just pirates or gangs. Hunting them down was Star Fox's main contract assignments and they'd been very effective at it.
"Why would they do that?" Fox shouted into the radio. "They aren't even a major threat, and sending an entire fleet just to wipe out one group is huge waste of resources."
"You'd be right if that's what they were doing. Pepper informed me that it's more like a task force fleet devoted to wiping out the Venom threat. From my understanding the Task Force will bounce from planet to planet till they've secured it from the Venomians."
"But, that'd take months if not over a year to achieve. And from what I see it looks like they're sending at least a quarter of Corneria'scfleet on this assignment. Seems like they're going for overkill on this."
"They're just trying to be ready for anything, Fox, you know from experience that the Venomians can be unpredictable." Peppy scolded Fox.
"I know, still seems like overkill to me. What really concerns me is that if those rumors are true than we'll basically be out of business."
"That was my concern to, I don't know why they're doing this now when they've had eight years to deal with the problem."
Fox sighed. "Their reasons don't really matter, what does is how this effects us. We should be careful and consider other options till we know for certain."
"Fortunately, we got this job to focus on for now, whatever it is."
Fox nodded as their permission to land cleared. They both immediately flew down as quickly as they could to the landing area. Fox and Peppy landed as close as they could to the headquarters building, unfortunately, due to all the land and space craft docked at the time, they were positioned on the other side of the base. Neither was happy about having to walk nearly a mile to reach their destination.
"Things seem a little quiet, even for this time of night." Peppy spoke up as they climbed out of their cockpits.
"The message I received from General Pepper did say that the traffic and guard duties will temporarily be lessened for our visit. So, I'd be surprised if we ran into too many people."
"Huh, that's strange, even for Pepper, he's usually a stickler for security. Whatever he wants to discuss with us must be important."
"That's what I figured to. Whatever it is we won't find out standing here, let's get moving."
Fox and Peppy begin walking across the runway to the headquarters, neither of them saying a word as they walked together. They kept a steady, quick pace to avoid attention and distractions, but both of their minds were in different places. Fox couldn't say what was on Peppy's mind but he was focused more on the current state of the Star Fox team and on a certain pair of vixens he'd prefer to keep quiet about. Knowing it wasn't the appropriate time to think about such things Fox pushed the thoughts out of his mind.
To Fox and Peppy the place seemed almost too empty. Other than a few roving patrols there was no one else around, which only aroused Fox's suspicion even more. His mercanary instincts naturally kicked in, making him survey everything and everyone, even though he knew it was unnecessary being on a friendly military base.
"What did the message really say Fox? I don't believe that crap you gave Falco and Slippy one bit." Peppy said, breaking the silence.
"I'm not sure I should tell you, the message came across as confidential. I had to tell some BS story to keep them from getting suspicious. You know how nosy they are."
"True, but you shouldn't lie to your team like that, it makes them less likely to trust you in the future."
"I know Peppy, but I'm sure they'll forgive me once they get paid." Fox replied as they passed through security, showing their mercenary badges to get through.
"Yeah that's probably true. Now, what did the message say."
"Uh, you want all of it or just the important parts? I'm not sure how accurate it'll be since I'm recalling from memory."
"Just what you remember will be fine."
Fox let out a sigh as they entered the main building. "Well, the message was stated as confidential, I think that goes without saying. You know my policy on accepting confidential messages but it was from General Pepper so I agreed to read it . The message was short and to the point, the way I like it. From what I remember it stated that an important government contract company needed our assistance with a top secret project emergency. Other than giving us the time and place of the meeting, and to keep the meeting as confidential as possible, that's all the message said, well th."
"Really, that's the message said?" Peppy said, crossing his arms.
"Pretty much, that's what I remember from the top of my head. It was pretty vague, more than what we usually get from Pepper."
Fox and Pepper spotted a duo of soldiers up ahead, patrolling the base from the looks of it. They stopped talking as the soldiers approached them, not wanting to be overheard, wanting to keep their conversation as private as possible. The soldiers barely noticed them as they were deep in conversation themselves, talking about a rave they recently attended from what they were saying. Fox and Peppy said hello to the soldiers as they passed who only waved back.
"That's odd, I've known General Pepper for decades, he's never been vague or subtle." Peppy said once the soldiers were far enough away. "For him to send is a message like that it must be something really bad or maybe he wants to keep it top secret, as confidential as possible."
"I was thinking the same thing. Normally, I would've turned down a request like that, but the payment included in the message was too good to pass on."
"Oh, how much were we offered?"
Fox leaned in close to Peppy and whispered, "Ten million."
Fox fought back a laugh as Peppy gasped. "Seriously, that much for an contract we don't even know what it is yet?"
"Yes, but that's just the down payment, an additional will be discussed after we're briefed."
"Huh, sounds a little too good to be true." Peppy replies, scratching his chin.
"I know, that's why I replied that we'd at least listen to what the contract is before agreeing to it."
"Smart, normally I would suggest we pass on something like this, but the money's too good to overlook. The Great Fox, and us, certainly need the money, even if you won't admit it."
Fox sighed, knowing full well that what Peppy said is true; at the moment the Star Fox team was NOT in the best condition. Though the Lylat Wars certainly made the system - wide heroes it effected them pretty negatively. While the Lylat Wars certainly cleaned up the bad guys circulating throughout the system it also eliminated almost all of their business; well, business for honest mercenaries anyway. Without Venom running amok, and very few pirates or gangs, business for Star Fox hadn't been abundant to say the least. Though there was plenty of business out there at least two - thirds of it was, as Fox put it, dark work, stuff that he considered dishonorable. Because of the lack of business the Star Fox team has recently seem some very bad lack of funds. Currently, Star Fox barely had the money to even keep the Great Fox running, even their Arwings were starting to be effected by it. As a result Fox was starting to get a little desperate for money, the idea of ending the Star Fox team had recently popped into his mind.
"Unfortunately, Peppy, at this point I can't afford not to admit it. We need the money, there's no question about that." Fox said with a sigh. "So, I don't think we have much of a choice but to accept the contract."
"Well, there is one other option that you're not considering. We can ask you - know - who for help. I'm certain she'd be more than willing to help us if you ask nicely."
"You're talking about Fara Phoenix?" Fox blurted out. "As much as I'd like to, and I think she'd be more than willing to help us, I'm not comfortable asking her for money."
Peppy shook his head in disappointment. "Fox, what have I told you about pride? If you let your pride get in the way it could harm the team."
"Pride has nothing to do with it Peppy. I got no problem asking for help when I need it, you know that."
"Then why not ask Fara for help? Sh could have the Great Fox running better than ever."
"Because, with the way things ended between us it wouldn't feel right to ask her for that kind of favor. You know how things ended between us, asking her for money feels like overstepping I'd be overstepping my boundaries, or something like that." Fox answered as calmly as he could.
"I thought that things ended well between you two. Last time I checked Fara and you were on speaking terms and often hangout together."
"We do, but that's only as friends, nothing more at the moment. So, please, drop it Peppy."
Peppy sighed as he walked side by side with Fox, with a dozen questions on his mind but kept them to himself. As much as Peppy wanted to continue drilling Fox with question after question, he knew it wasn't the appropriate time. The way things ended between Fox and Fara certainly were not something to just bring up, especially on a military base on their way to the confidential meeting with the gods know who. Peppy was determined to bring it up again, just later.
"Hey, Fox, did the message say who would be there?" Peppy asked as they entered the main building.
"No, that was never mentioned. For all I know my step mother could be there."
"Now that would be awkward, half of the meeting would be a briefing and half Shelby trying to convince you to let Daria join the team."
Fox smirked a little. "I'll take that over Fara's nagging any day."
Fox and Peppy turned the corner, both laughing quietly to themselves, only to almost bumping into the vixen standing with her back to them. They jumped back to avoid running her over only to freeze when they saw who it was. Looking right at them, mostly at Fox, stood a gorgeous fennec fox vixen. Her green eyes glared at Fox, sending shivers down his spine. At first, Fox didn't know whether to be turned on or scared, he never did with that particular vixen. It didn't help that the vixen looked beautiful but tough, as she always did. The vixen was wearing a grayish suit combined with a long skirt that went a little past her knees. The suit did little to hide her natural frame, especially her fine ass which was very pleasing for Fox to look at. It was strange seeing the vixen in such an outfit, Fox always considered her to be a tomboy. Fox quickly pushed the thoughts out of his mind before the vixen got angry with his starring.
The fennec vixen crossed her arms under her ample busom, glaring at Fox and Peppy. "Fox, Peppy, it's been a long time.
Peppy nodded and returned the sentiment but Fox remained frozen for a moment. Seeing the particular vixen standing before him was something he wasn't expecting. It didn't help that his heart was beating rapidly as it always did whenever she was around. Even after all the time they'd known each other, and the long time they were together, Fox still couldn't help acting like a fool around her.
After a moment Fox was finally able to speak. "Fara, it's nice to see you again, but what are you doing here?"
"As clueless as ever Fox. Who do you think called your team here?"
"Wait, that was you?"
Fara rolled her eyes and replied in a sarcastic tone. "Yes, had to get someone I trust that wasn't completely incompetent. Couldn't find someone who fits both and could handle the job I need done so I turned to you."
Fox shook his head, trying hard not to laugh at Fara's statement. Fara had always been good at teasing him, even in serious situations. However, what Fara said did have some truth to it, even though Fox would never admit it. But it seemed like everyone else he knew would say something like that, especially Falco, Fara, and Daria.
"As demeaning as ever Fara."
"Nah, only to you, Fox." Fara answered, then playfully poked Fox's nose. "Someone has to keep you on a leash, might as well be me."
"Huh, lucky me, getting teased day and night by the CEO of one of Lylats largest companies."
"As much as I appreciate the compliment it's assistant CEO. Apparently, part of my job is making sure you don't screw up and get into trouble, which should be Peppy's job."
"Hey, I don't get into that much . . ." Fox started to speak till a scowl from Fara stopped him. "Ok, maybe I do get into trouble, occasionally, but you know you enjoy looking after me."
"No, I don't, that is NOT a fun job at all and you know it."
"Oh, then why do you keep an eye on me then?"
Fara nearly growled at Fox, but instead walked up to him, smiled playfully and said. "One word, Fox, Vixy. I got to keep an eye on you for her sake. Vixy would never forgive me if her idol died."
"Oh, I thought it was because you still loved me."
"Whatever you gotta fell yourself to sleep at night."
"As much I hate to interrupt," Peppy shouted getting the attention of the two foxes. "Can we please get down to business? You two can flirt after we discuss whatever business you have for us Fara."
"Oh, my bad boys, you both know how I get carried away sometimes." Fara replied back with a giggle while Fox laughed to himself. "Now, follow me boys, what I have to discuss with you is best said in private."
Fara turned around and walked down the hallway, leaving Fox and Peppy a little confused and intrigued with what she had to offer. Fox's attention immediately fell on Fara's rear, swaying back and forth as she strutted down the hallway. The dress seemed to only amplify the movements of her already gorgeous, plump rear, forcing him to focus harder on the pleasent view. He knew she was shaking herself on purpose for him, she always did to tease and arouse him, but Fox wasn't about to say anything about it.
Damn that woman has the finest ass of any vixen I've ever seen. Must be something she really wants for her to be shaking it this much.
A quick pat on the back of the head from Peppy awakened Fox from his trance. "Save the hanky panky for later Fox, try to focus on the job."
"Sorry, Peppy, that woman knows how to distract and attract me."
"That's not hard to do, any women with a big rack or plump ass could get your attention." Peppy said, smirking a little. "So, I guess we're working for your ex now, Fox?"
"Hardly the first time we've done that, the pay is always good and the contracts are almost always simple recon missions."
"Unless you count the investigation over Macbeth last year."
Fox sighed, then whispered to Peppy. "That wasn't Fara's fault, the Intel she had wasn't fully complete, and they had a Venom spy in their company. It wasn't that bad of a contract."
"Tell that to the hole on the Great Fox, it cost a fortune to fix the damage."
"I'm well aware of that Peppy, but it wasn't Fara's fault, she wouldn't purposely lead us into danger."
"I think we both know why." Peppy said, smiling devilishly at Fox. "On a different note, I can't help but be curious of what Fara's proposal is."
"Same here, usually Fara calls me, we set up a meeting, discuss the details, and that's it. This is completely different, getting the military involved can't be good."
"Never is when the military's involved. That's why we should be cautious, never know what they're hiding."
Fara suddenly turned around and starred right at Peppy, making them stop just outside of the briefing room. "Just so we're clear, I don't purposely withhold information from you, haven't on any of the contracts you have done for me in the past."
Peppy looked at Fara shocked. "Uh, how much of our conversation did you hear?"
"All of it." Fara replied, pointing to her large ears. "These come in very handy. Now, can we please hurry, what we have to discuss is very important."
Fara spun around and continued walking down the hallway without saying another word. Both Fox and Peppy remained where they were for a moment, Fara's action caught them both off guard. The urgency she spoke in only increased their caution.
"Now you know how part of the last six years have been for me." Fox said as he walked past Peppy, following Fara.
Peppy remained in his spot for a moment before continuing after Fox and Fara. I got a very bad feeling about this, something big is going happen, I can feel it.
To be continued.
What is the contract Fara Phoenix and General Pepper have in store for Star Fox? What happened between Fox and Fara in the past?
Hope that you enjoyed the chapter. Please leave a review as any help to improve the story will be appreciated.
If anyone has any questions, please either PM me or leave a review and I will answer as best I can.
This is John Storm signing off, Stay Frosty y'all