x-x-x-x

Chapter 3

A thrum of murmuring voices filled the barracks as a lone Cerinian strode out of the shower and towards her locker. The azure vixen strode with determination in her step, or one would think that if not for the vixen humming a happy little tune to herself. Her thick bushy tail bobbed and weaved after her trip through the auto-dryer and combing down her fur over a body rich in hues of blue and white. The front of her facial features were white with two stunning aquamarines eyes most individuals could not help but be drawn into when they talked with her, that very same fur ran all the way down and over the swells of her chest, across her belly, and between her nether regions with a subtle hint arching around towards her backside. The soft strands of white gave way to blue that covered every inch of her body. Bright cerulean locks dangled in a professional yet appealing short locks with shots of white that were scattered within. All the while the vixen in question appeared to be in peak physical condition for her species and gender, taking excellent care of herself as her fur coat boasted a healthy sheen and powerful muscles were just hinted beneath the vibrant fuzz.

The very same vixen approached her locker and opened it after a dull beep signified the right combination. Inside was her flight suit, for today she wouldn't dare be caught dead not wearing that for one very good reason. A very compelling event that could potentially change the course of fate for both Cerinian and Cornerian alike and she wanted to be seen as what she was. A Cerinian pilot willing to do what was necessary to save lives. Today, she was meeting with Fox McCloud, a legend and a devil among Cerinians.

Her suit slipped on easily, black with blue thigh high boots and paneling over the chest and shoulders that could dissipate energy blasts. A simple belt that wrapped around her waist with an aquamarine stone in the center which had a singular band that went around her right thigh that held a holster for her blaster. To further her kit, she had a pocket in which her most sacred treasure was stashed securely; a powerful Cerinian warstaff that behaved as a conduit for which Krystal could channel all her psionic might and power into world and reality bending effects. That wasn't to say she needed it, but it helped to have a focus and hers was among the finest in their craft.

Purple and blues ran up the shaft of the weapon with the head ending in a beautiful golden tip that could open into a sharp spear capable of penetrating the thickest of hides and even heavy infantry armor. Within the tip was an alcove that held a tiny sapphire gem which had been a gift from her mother. The traditional weapon was a sacred family heirloom; one Krystal held reverently with a sigh before she was jared from her thoughts in surprise. A loud crash of a fist meeting metal made Krystal nearly jump out of her fur as her steely eyed gaze came to land upon Cynric; one of her wingmates.

She was greeted by the sight of a burly male, well, burly for pilot standards. A man like him would not have been out of place in the infantry with his broad shoulders and powerful musculature easily on display in the unisex barracks. The tod cared not that his body was on display, in fact, he seemed to take no small amount of pride in displaying himself to Krystal. It was amazing to her the antics some men would do to attract a female.

"Gods dammit Cynric, why do you always have to make me jump like that?"

The vulpine in question was a bright sky blue with mirth filled and surprisingly gentle white eyes eyes. "Not my fault you can't hear me coming from a mile away Krystal. Seem to have something on your mind; gold coin for your thoughts?" His accent was deep, almost baritone and within it lay a certain strength that was assertive yet placating. She understood why he was the talk of the barracks among the other vixens and it was no secret he had his eyes on her for some time.

"What do you think, pretty sure word has spread already."

Cynric chortled quietly. "You would be correct. You're one of our top pilots and being interviewed for a spot on the team that gave us so much hell when we first arrived. Everyone is envious of you. I mean, c'mon; McCloud was the one who killed Andross himself. The madman was practically a god from all the accounts and McCloud took him out."

Krystal couldn't deny that as they'd all seen the recording from Fox's flight recorder. Even some of the more choppy distorted parts delivered an intense and harrowing experience. Fox, by himself had killed the greatest threat to Cerinia and Corneria single handedly. He was a hero by anyone's standard and yet somehow they were on different sides of a sea rife with tension that should have never existed in the first place.

"Just a shame we're in the position we are. You would have thought we could work together, but between the horrible first contact; then the riots when we first showed up, the terrorist cells… we came to fight Andross only to find these people on a wing and a prayer." The cobalt vixen muttered.

Cynric gave a shrug. "What can you do? They forsook their gods long ago and ignore the world around them in favor of constructs and machinery. Perhaps this is their punishment."

The azure vixen scrunched her snout at that comment. "And what was our punishment for Cynric? We lost just as much as these people, perhaps even more. Do not be so quick to judge, afterall; Fox and his team gave us hell before Corneria surrendered. Imagine if he decided to keep fighting.

That should deflate his ego a bit.

The response Krystal garnered was exactly what she desired. Cynric's ears went flat with a morose look of defeat before crossing his arms and turning his eyes up to Krystal. "True, there's more than a few in the Royal Air Arm and Marines who respect him. I've even heard one of the old priests mutter how Fox could be the avatar of the war god. Can you believe that?" The male smirked at the very notion as he found the very notion preposterous."As if a Cornerian would even be noticed by our creators." His normal confident demeanor returned rapidly and a small side of smugness was carried in his tone.

Krystal understandably found it odd how sure of himself Cynric was in that statement.

"Stranger things have happened Cynric, and while I agree these Cornerians are a motley bunch… But, we're all in this hell together, so best to learn to keep that pride in check before someone knocks you down."

She watched as the male rolled his eyes and then directed them back to her with a flirty smile upon his snout. "So after your interview Krystal, how about you and I go get some food huh? There was a fresh delivery from fleet hydroponics today. Need to get it while the getting is good."

"Ask my mother first." She shot back with a smirk. The vixen reached back into her locker and produced two gloves to slip over her palms and snapped them into place. She was armed and ready to face the man, the myth, the legend.

"Oh c'mon, don't tell me your family still adheres to those traditions?"

The vixen closed her locker and just grinned at Cynric. "Only when I know the male in question who's trying to sniff under my tail wants what's there and only that. Now, if you want something serious then maybe we'll talk. Until then, I have an appointment to keep."

She did take a small amount of pleasure in putting Cynric in his place, while he wasn't a womanizer, he did make the rounds so to speak. Krystal felt herself wanting something more stable and romantic; and while some of her female friends spoke highly of Cynric's ability as a lover; the tod did not seem the type to want to dedicate himself to one woman. Which was perfectly fine, especially with their population lower than it's ever been. He just was not her type in that regard. Even so, she did not want to give up the momentum of her career as she was riding high on the hog and hopefully if all went well today, the stars would be the limit.

Not to mention It would do her some good to get off the base; as Krystal often stayed there for various reasons. Chief among them was how judgemental Cornerians were. It amazed her really; how a planet of people that according their political doctrine were open and accepting, but were incredibly subjective in their views. It was why ventures outside of the compound were rare for her. The stares and reactions from people she didn't want to deal with which combined with the wayward thoughts of an undisciplined population that she could hear as clear as a sky blue day; it was a recipe for a migraine. Regardless, Krystal left the barracks with a small spring in her step and found a military car waiting for her. It was a small vehicle with a covered top, four wheels, and armored enough to resist small caliber anti-tank rockets.

One can't be too careful.

The driver to her surprise was a Cornerian Military Police Officer; one of the few who probably stayed on board for the benefits and jobs security. She couldn't blame the man at all as the benefits were plentiful and guaranteed him some sort of preferential treatment. However, the hell he must have caught from his people had to be fierce.

The doberman offered a salute without a word. Krystal of course returned it and then climbed into the back, closing the door as she took her seat and strapped herself in. The drive was not a long one but it was enough to let her get an eyeful of the city in disarray. Buildings were still collapsed and entire streets were inaccessible due to rubble or giant holes that were left over from the war. Krystal felt a pang in her chest at the memories of Cerinia, specifically the capital city as It had been in a strikingly similar state when the homeworld was evacuated.

Yet for all our suffering, the Cornerians bore the brunt of Andross' assault and everyone else was just a victim to his aspirations of galactic dominance.

Cornerian citizens on the sidewalk flowed past in a sort of strange amalgamation of colors as Krystal keyed her senses into the temperment of the city. The overall feeling was not a pleasant one; decrepit and bleak were the words that first came to mind. Very few people wore smiles these days and the weather did little to help improve the mood with it's grey skies and even an ocean once reputed to be a pristine blue was muted from it's pollution. All around her a sense of emptiness and a lack of all life and hope filled the city. Such emotions had a stronger effect on Cerinians and Krystal had to steel herself lest she get caught in a feedback loop of negativity.

"We're here ma'am." came the voice of her driver. The vixen clearly surprised at just how fast they arrived at their destination.

"Thank you Sergeant, don't wait and report back to base."

The doberman looked in the rear view mirror at her skeptically. "Are you sure ma'am? I know things have been quiet for a few months, but that's a bit bold if I may say."

"You may, and I appreciate your concern Sergeant. I will be fine. If I am not safe around Fox McCloud, where can anyone be safe?"

The dog had to give it to her, she was right. If you were in danger around a McCloud, then things had really gone sideways.

"Very well ma'am, be careful."

Krystal exited the vehicle and made her way inside. The storm over head raged on as lightning began to streak across the skies. The rain did little to bother her; as a child she had ran through rain storms for personal enjoyment as it made her feel alive and connected with the world around her. Still, she could not deny that her mind felt heavy with doubts. Fox's record was astounding, hundreds of confirmed kills all across the spectrum. From tiny one man fighters, to super capital ships. His ground career was no slouch either and that's what made Fox such an interesting individual to the Cerinian Authority. His skill, speed, and ability to adapt was something even they had not seen before. The confidence and strength he inspired in others was almost otherworldly.

"I heard one of the old priests say that Fox could be the avatar of the war god... Can you believe that?"

The words rang in her mind as that thick tail swayed in tandem with her pace. Here, her soon to be new squadron leader resided. Krystal checked her wrist communicator and saw that she was right on time as the elevator she had taken from the bottom floor brought her to the very top and had made he way down the hall to the apartment that Fox resided in.

Well, here goes nothing.

Three gentle taps upon the wooden surface followed by a few seconds of silence until from within she heard a firm voice tinged with enervation answered.

"Enter."

A twist of the knob and the dark colored door opened before her and led into the apartment. She expected something professional and showy; but instead, his apartment was quaint. A couch, holovid set, and windows that shown out onto the street and other nearby buildings. The floor was hardwood and colored similarly to the door. Krystal's eyes wandered slowly around the room as her nose took in the scents. All she could smell was Fox, a spicy almost woods like fragrance mixed with something floral to tune down his natural musky aroma.

Krystal's eyes came to rest on the man in question. Fox sat over the table in front of him staring at what was presumably her military record. Likely he was doing one last look over before they talked. Krystal strode forward and past a chair that was left for her; snapped her feet together smartly and offered Fox a polite salute with her elbow out and a sharp inclined paw on the left side of her head.

"Leftenant Krystal reporting, Sir."

The tod seemed surprised when he looked up. Eyeing her with curiosity and to her shock, hardly a look of thirst. She wasn't sure if she was disappointed at that or marveling at Fox's self control. What caught her off guard though was his appearance, Krystal expected a cocksure self confident pilot ready to take on all comers as indicated in his psyche profile.

What sat before her was the complete opposite.

He looks exhausted.

Though the better word to have used would be disheveled. There were large bags under his eyes that indicated he had not slept in days. Fox's ears were droopy and far from alert and attentive; his fur was dulled significantly in what otherwise appeared to be a healthy male vulpine. All of that was coupled with how slow he moved and a tail that was at complete rest. Overall, her first impression of this supposed legend was falling far short of her expectations.

His voice is what really did it in though.

"I'm not an officer Lieutenant, drop the sir." His tone was sharp and full of aggravation; as though her presence were an annoyance.

Not that I can blame him considering the circumstances.

She was willing to cut Fox some slack for now, whatever he'd been through was showing and the amount of crap he must be putting up with had to be immense.

"Right, apologies uh…"

"Fox will do, please, have a seat and we c-can begin."

He didn't even stand to shake my hand… rather rude this one.

"Of course." Replied Krystal as she took a seat while being mindful of her tail.

"Well, you certainly make no bones about how you wanted me to see you, blaster, Cerinian weapon and flight suit. Professional ap-pearance and all, a good start. So... I've gone over your record and thus far I am impressed. Over several hundred confirmed kills ranging from fighters to capital ships, numerous su-successful recon and escort missions. Ground combat trained which is always good, hell, even Chemical and Biological hazard environment training. While all of this is good... I don't really care about any of this."

Krystal kept her cool, to feel her record that she worked so hard for and establish herself as warrior among her people being thrown aside felt like a slap to her face. Not to mention Fox was behaving strangely, she saw him fidget slightly in his chair and the stutter in his voice was becoming noticeable as time passed. He kept missing syllables or having prolonged pronunciations; even outright moments where he seemed to space out only to continue right from where he dropped off.

"Then what do you care about?"

"Why do you fight?" He said sharply.

"Come again?"

"Why. Do. You. fight." Reiterated Fox. "Kills and successful missions are great for the press and your own ego. I already have one pilot like that on my team and he's a handful. I don't need another. So, I ask you again Krystal, what purpose do you fight for? Honor? Prestige? Glory? Money?"

I see, it's a personality question, he wants to know who I am behind the stick as opposed to just who I am when I pull the trigger.

"That's a complicated answer Fox, but, if I were to say it in one simple phrase. It's to protect others, especially those who can't defend themselves."

A derisive snort came from the sapped tod in response.

"Is there something wrong with my reply?"

"No, just the irony in it is all. Con...considering the situation we find ourselves in."

At first she wanted to rebuke what he said; but the truth of the matter was he sat across from one of his conquerors. So, what she just said had to sound like the most paradoxical statement he ever heard. And she could give him leeway on that, Krystal's tolerance for his behavior swa swiftly running out. The disrespect was bordering on offensive to her sensibilities.

"Next question I have for you Krystal, is what are your talents, and I don't mean combat or off duty talents. I mean your Psionic ones. For some reason your commanding officer decided to leave that information out."

"Why is that important?"

Fox narrowed his eyes at her. "You really have to ask that Krystal? Your people conquered mine, you can read most individuals thoughts barring those of us who know how to focus our will enough to keep you out. We've seen what your ground troops can do first hand when the riots and other various instigators started raising hell upon your arrival. So, this is a question I have for you because I need to know and want to know what you can do." His voice was hostile, aggravated; and the fact Fox's voice held tension that was growing by the second did not help matters.

Her own temper began to flare, but ever grateful for her training Krystal still managed to keep her calm with several rhythmic shallow breaths before speaking her reply.

"Captain McCloud, I do not feel comfortable answering that question and I would appreciate if you would keep your tone respectful." She shot back curtly. "I am not one of your wingmates yes. And I am sure as hell not some green pilot fresh from training."

She saw the temper in Fox flash for but a hot second before his eyes relaxed and he leaned back into his chair with a heavy sigh. A single tired paw ran over his handsome features as two two fingers and his thumb gripped the bridge that separated his eyes.

"I'm sorry," It was strange for Krystal to watch as Fox seemed to pause mid sentence, his eyes closed while his paw gripped the table lightly. It was as though he were struggling to find words or formulate them and they would not come forward. Several long seconds passed before he seemed to gather enough brain power to continue speaking.

"It's been a rough few days and between getting the Great Fox ready, and then fighting with resources and procurement out of the Cerinian Authority... Co...combined with some unpleasant thoughts I've been having. It's been hell. Think I've only had at max, maybe eight hours of rest in the last…crap, I've lost track of how many days it's been."

Well that explains a few things. Chief among them this drained attitude of his.

"Very well, I didn't mean to get testy with you Fox. But I am not going to be walked all over."

"Of course, Krystal. I'm normally not like this. There's a lot going on right now. Anyways, if you don't feel comfortable talking about your psionic abilities." Thash fine, but I would like to know in the future when you do feel better about shhharing them."

Krystal's ears twitched as his words had even started to slur together. She marveled at just how ragged Fox was and yet in his current state he showed little signs of slowing down. His nervous tweaks and anxious ridden demeanor were all apparent. Krystal didn't even need the use of her telepathy as Fox was pushing himself to the absolute limit and possibly beyond what any normal mammal should have.

He must be working himself to the bone for all this… Fox must be either really stupid or incredibly ambitious. I'd admire him if it obviously weren't hurting him.

"Why does it matter exactly?" She inquired.

"Because my team is going to be p...paranoid. Falco already accused me of being mind controlled by your people for even accepting thish deal. I don't think your people can do that, or would do that even if they could. Otherwise we'd be walking around as mindless slaves or shhomething."

Krystal didn't react to the idea of mind control, but didn't exactly scoff either. Krystal was silently grateful that Fox didn't really seem to notice or care.

"So, knowing what you can and cannot do would go a long way to ease some already frayed nerves."

"Your team? Does that include you?" Krystal was curious as to just what kind of uphill battle she would be facing.

Krystal hit him with a sharp verbal slap to the face to which the tod across from her winced at the accusation. Fox liked to think of himself as open minded and welcoming, but all of this was completely new. Even he couldn't keep the Cerinians out forever. It was an unfortunate occupational hazard that he had to know everything about a person before taking them on. It just so happened the newest potential member had abilities no one could see or stop her from using. It was a shameful feeling Fox had; that he had to judge Krystal for the natural abilities her people came by. Everyone had their secrets after all.

"It pains me to admit it, but what you can do does scare me. How do you defend against something that you can't see or feel until it's al-already happening? I mean, I can block most Cerinians out, but eventually you always get through. It's not something I'm used to dealing with." His mind drifted for the briefest of moments before returning to the present. "Hell, no one in Lylat is familiar with it save maybe Andross before I put him down a couple years ago."

Krystal tilted her head in curiosity towards him. "You seemed to do well enough in combat, you did quite a bit of damage before Corneria's surrender." It was intended as a compliment to his skill and daring, unfortunately, Krystal had no idea what she just stepped into.

Fox's tail flitted angrily as he cast his head down with a balled up fist.

"Get out." He snarled with a voice that oozed with aggression.

The sudden way he shifted from apologetic and professional to anger was like someone flipped a switch on him. Krystal attempted to placate Fox and apologize to the bewildered vulpine. "Fox, I'm sorry, I didn't mean-"

"I said; get out!" Fox roared.

The vixen looked upon the tod and saw the pain and anger in his eyes. But it was who it was directed at that shocked her the most. Her mind carefully graced his so as not to tip off the alerted vulpine and what Krystal glimpsed shocked her; all the hatred, and anger she could see coming off him in vast powerful waves was directed internally rather than at herself.

Just what kind of man are you?

With a crisp salute Krystal snapped back around and promptly exited the apartment with the door being shut behind her. The vixen drew in a long breath of air before slowly exhaling as she tried to calm her frayed nerves.

"He's quite intense, wouldn't you agree?"

Krystal stood up and tried to look proper as her head turned and came to rest upon a spotted feline with tall ears and a short bobbed tail.

"I… yes, yes he is… erm-"

"Miyu, Miyu Lynx. Star Fox's chief mechanic and Sixth member of the team."

Krystal gave the cat a polite nod of her head. "Krystal. Nice to meet you Miss Lynx."

"Just Miyu will do. So, what did you say to Fox that made him throw you out?"

Krystal closed her eyes and cast her head down lightly. "I brought up the surrender."

Miyu flinched and then hissed softly like someone had punched her in the arm. "Yea… not a good idea to ever bring that up. He's still sore about it; blames himself more than anything."

"I noticed," replied Krystal. "Saw it in his eyes, he wasn't even mad at me. It was all directed inwards but he lashed out."

The feline with the strange arrow shape pattern on her forehead nodded. "That's Fox. He tends to shoulder tons of responsibility even when it shouldn't be his to carry. Comes with being in command along with the kind of guy he is."

The feline's gaze was not what she expected; there was no accusatory glare, not a hint of malice. Most of what she saw in there was curiosity and from the way Miyu was talking, the feline was trying gain a measure of the woman she was dealing with.

"I see."

A noble sort then. Going so far as to even sacrifice his own health for the greater good.

Krystal's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Miyu's voice. "Anyways, you're the new girl?" The Lynx asked inquisitively.

Krystal scratched the back of her head as she sized up Miyu curiously. The feline wore a red shirt that cut off above her belly, revealing a rather potent set of muscles beneath the short fur. Over that was a dark grey jacket with sleeves that only went to her elbows and a length down just to where her shirt ended. A long pair of cargo pants ran down her lower half that covered her from waist to feet and were tucked into a pair of black combat boots. Overall, Krystal's impression of Miyu was someone who was not to be trifled with. Especially with which the ease of confidence she wore naturally.

"I don't think so, considering he threw me out of his apartment." Krystal uttered with slumped shoulders.

"Ehh, don't sweat it. Come with me Krystal. Lets give Fox some time to cool off then we'll head back and give him another chance. He's been dealing with a ton of crap on all sides." Miyu said with a smile upon her lips.

"I kind of figured as much. His position cannot be an easy one."

The lynx nodded with a laugh. "Understatement of the month right there." Replied Miyu as she turned about to walk down the hall towards her own apartment. The feline quickly opened it after letting Krystal pass through first and then gently closed the door behind her.

Much like Fox's room, it was a quaint event, the only difference was the myriad of equipment and tools laid out on a table. All of which seemed to be used in fixing a sort of engine. It didn't appear to be a weapon to her.

"Drink?" Miyu offered as she went into the kitchen and opened the fridge.

"Uhm, just water please."

"Laaaaame." Came the felines rebuttal as she snagged a bottle of water for Krystal and a beer for herself. With ease Miyu chucked it across the room to which Krystal's swift reflexes snagged it out of the air with a wet slap of fur on plastic.

"Have a seat, it'll be a bit before Fox calms himself down." Krystal found herself planting her rump firmly in a nearby couch as she sighed and looked to Miyu quizzically.

"Credit for your thoughts Krystal?" The feline said with a raised eyebrow.

"Mostly just curious as to why you're being so polite or if this is some kind of weird baptism by fire."

Miyu shook her head mirthfully. "No baptism here, you just stepped on a landmine that most know to avoid. Though, how could you know? You've never talked with him before. I just don't want you getting chased off is all."

"And why is that? I would think you and your team would want any Cerinian chased away."

The feline seemed to think it over slightly in her head and tapped the tip of her beer bottle with a claw. "Well, for starters you're obviously military, and assuming your navy is nowhere near as incompetent as ours was; I'd wager they would send one of their best over rather than saddle us with a greenhorn. Abrecan isn't that stupid."

Krystals head tilted with curiosity. "Your tone indicates respect for the Admiral, why is that?"

"Because Abrecan, though a conqueror has at least tried to treat us with respect and dignity rather than how your politicians have been behaving. He ensures food gets evenly distributed; that Cornerians don't go without medical treatment, hell, he's the one who pushed for joint Cornerian and Cerinian education."

What Miyu said was true, and Krystal had to smile slightly to hear someone from a famous team speak highly of one of their leaders. "Well, I'm glad his efforts have been paying off at least in some regard. But if this is the case; why hasn't Star Fox come out in support of him?"

"Politics." Miyu said simply. "Between Rowena trying to pin Fox's ass to the wall and a decent amount of Cornerian people who are pretty pissed off still. It's not safe for us to pick a side. Not that we really want to."

"I see, play the middle ground and try to foster something."

Miyu's left eye clenched a little as a look of indifference came across her features. "Not really, just don't want to get caught in the crossfire. We're not tools for a political machine, we fight for the people. Government be damned."

"Then why didn't you keep fighting us?"

Miyu's mood took a turn for the dour as short snout now bore a frown. "That's not for me to answer Krystal. But I will say this, we've lost people and it took its toll on Fox. To be honest, I'm worried he might not be ready to lead again. He feels responsible and wants to; but his heart may not be in it just yet."

"Why are you telling me this?" Krystal uttered, curiosity rife in her voice.

"Because, you can read his thoughts. You'll be able to see more than I ever could. I don't want Fox or any more of my friends to die. With your power you might be able to get through to him where all of us have failed."

So, her bringing me here was out of concern than anything else.

"You don't even know me, how can you possibly trust me with such a thing?"

"Gut feeling." She replied. "No idea why, but, you strike me as a good person. Though, I have been wrong in the past. Regardless, you're the one they sent and if Abrecan supports it, well. You can't be a total ass barrel."

Krystal raised her eyebrow at that phrase. "Ass… barrel?"

"You know, a barrel full of ass?"

"You have strange insults Miyu."

"Can't be any weirder than some of the Cerinian ones I'm sure." Replied the Lynx. "Either way, give it about ten more minutes then we'll go back and see Fox."

Those ten minutes seemed to go by faster than Krystal anticipated. The vixen was curious about a many number of things though the answers were very far and few inbetween. She received enough to slake her curiosity for the time being until finally, the pair did as Miyu suggested and went back to Fox's room with the feline knocking on the door. "Hey Fox, it's Miyu, open the door."

Deafening silence was the reply.

"That's odd… Krystal, I don't mean to push you, but can you sense anything on the other side?" Miyu bore a clear indicator of worry within her voice.

"Is something wrong?"

"Gut feeling again, and a bad one at that. Fox usually answers the door."

Krystal saw the pleading in Miyu's eyes and understood that the feline was genuinely concerned.

"Alright, give me a second." Krystal focused her mind slowly and exhaled. It was just like watching something with her own two eyes as the room opposite the door came into focus. Bit by bit she traversed the living space with her mind's eye and honed in on Fox. A sharp gasp tore from Krystal's lips as she laid eyes upon the tod what she witnessed was unlike anything she had ever seen before. Around Fox was a dark malign aura filled with sorrows and contrition while he sat upon the edge of his bed head in his paws. Whatever was on Fox's mind it bore the weight of a life time and he hadn't even reached his late twenties. The simple room was disheveled and looked like a total wreck with papers, books, and various data pads flung about.

She could not let this stand; while Fox certainly had once been an enemy, his background spoke of compassion unparalleled and mercy not many were capable of. An abrupt spike of protective nature surged forth and in an effort to alleviate Fox's woe, Krystal channeled a modicum of her empathy towards the vulpine and whispered his name in a fashion that was laced with subtly so as not to be detected. Miyu watched on curiously as the vixen's aquamarine eyes radiated with power though she knew not what Krystal was doing.

Krystal was trying to break the spell the tod's heart had cast upon him; and slowly but surely as she repeated his name several times in an attempt to siphon off as much of his negativity that she could bare. Problem was, there was a lot of it. She could feel everything from within him, all that plagued him made him suffer. Krystal had no idea how someone could shoulder that much guilt and stay sane, his mind was certainly made of sterner stuff than the average Lylatian. It was about the third time that Fox's head rose as he heard his name and confusedly glanced about. Confusion and disorientation were written upon his features. Satisfied, Krystal withdrew quickly before Fox could detect her.

"Alright, try again Miyu." She uttered breathlessly, the vixen having had quite the toll taken on her own mind from such a venture. It would take time to process all that she felt, but it was not enough to debilitate her for an extended period.

The Lynx was confused at Krystal's sudden heavy breathing before deciding to not ask for the moment and firmly knocked upon the door three times. When Fox did not answer, she did it thrice more until finally the door twisted and Fox stood there looking as haggard as before; perhaps even slightly worse.

Fox's drained eyes gazed upon them both; nary a flicker of animosity was present when he turned his gaze to Krystal and then back to Miyu.

"What?" He said sternly.

"Boss, you have an interview to conclude."

"We already-"

Miyu gave him a look, one that Fox had become accustomed to. How she managed to pull off the stern "Mom" look at such a young age astounded Fox. "No, you threw her out, I could hear it from all the way down the hall and I understand why. But give the girl a proper chance, she's not all bad, and if Abrecan sent her, well… we probably could do worse."

Fox stared at Miyu and deliberated on the input. While he wasn't sure about having a Cerinian on the team… if Miyu gave support, well; that had to count for something.

With an exhaustive sigh, Fox shook his head and once more gazed upon the cerulean vixen. "Alright. Krystal, I apologize for earlier. I was well out of line, you stepped on a sensitive personal issue and I had no right to take it out on you. Would you like to come in and continue?"

His entire demeanor performed a one-eighty degree turn. He was far more polite yet still utterly spent. Whoever Miyu was to Fox; he obviously valued her advice and put great stock in the felines words. For many Cerinian's Fox's actions would have required a lot more than a few words to earn forgiveness, but given the situation they were in coupled with her own nature, it was easy to give him a pass just this once. It certainly helped that Fox seemed far more amicable than he was before and Krystal was eager to prove she was worthwhile being on the team. She wouldn't let this small bout of drama ruin her chances.

"Your apology is accepted Fox, and I would."

Fox gave her a tired smile before turning around and heading back inside. Krystal for her part faced Miyu with a warm smile. "Thank you, I don't think this would have ended well without you."

The spotted cat nodded. "Think nothing of it, it's not me you have to impress, it's Fox. If he thinks you're worthwhile being on the team. He'll put you where he needs you."

"Preferably in a cockpit." The vixen replied. "Anyways, I best get in there. It was nice meeting you Miyu."

"Likewise, blue." The feline replied as she turned about and made her way down the hall.

"Blue?" The vixen muttered to herself before heading back inside to sit in the chair that had been left out previously. A sugary energy drink can lay empty on the table as Fox rubbed his temples slowly and muttered softly to himself in a tongue she couldn't quite understand. Several minutes passed before Fox opened his eyes and gave her a heart felt and apologetic smile.

"Okay, I'm in a better place now… where did we leave off?"

"My Psionic talents."

"Right… Right… Okay, if you don't feel like telling me right now, I understand. But I would prefer to know of them in the future when you feel more comfortable. For now, I will leave it alone."

"Thank you, Fox." She replied gracefully and bobbed her head in respect.

"Now, I don't know much about Cerinian Fighters, but we fly Arwings on Star Fox, We'll have to get one made for you… though I don't know if Fara has enough materials to spare. Not to mention I'd like to see what you're capable of in a flight sim before signing you on fully." Fox sighed and ran a paw over his face as exasperation had set in long ago.

"There's just not enough time and all the normal channels are either closed or would take too long." Fox gave a shake of his head as he decided finally. "Alright, here's how this is going to go: Abrecan trusts you, and while I trust Cerinians about as far as I can throw them, he sent you and I have to hope he has sound judgement and everyone's best interest at heart. Your telepathy will be a huge tactical and strategic boon, and you're an experienced combat pilot along with your ground experience. With the reasons you gave me about why you fight… there's really nothing more to say save for one thing."

Krystal's tail twitched at the praise, her heart had stopped as she waited for Fox's next fateful words.

"Welcome to Star Fox."

That simple phrase made Krystal practically beam with pride, while Cerinians held Star Fox in high regard due to their combat prowess and sheer tenacity; it was the fact she was going to get to join the team and be apart of efforts to save both Cerinians and Cornerians. That same explosive pride nearly had her heart bursting forth from her chest while that thick bush of a tail had begun to wave as though it had a mind of its own.

For the first time that day, Fox had a genuine smile stretch across his lips. Even if the person sitting across from him was someone he didn't want around. To see her so excited and full of life was a change of pace from what he normally saw these days. Dour faces, frowns, angst and anger with growing desperation. This alien vixen who was celebrating her acceptance to the team. Her body language exuded joy and cheer with Krystal's whiskers turned up and her ears cupped forward while her tail could politely be called a blurr waving back and forth. For lack of any other word in that moment, Fox couldn't help but find Krystal… cute.

A long awkward silence ensued as Krystal's rush of joy came down and realized the both of them had been staring rather oddly at one another before an uneasy laughter filled the space between them.

"Sorry" Both vulpines blinked in surprise as they said the exact same word simultaneously and for little or no reason at all; both started laughing outright as nerves fell away.

"Sheesh, that was weird!" Fox said as he tapped his fingers on the table, grinning like a goofy idiot. "Don't think I've done that before."

"Nor have I." Krystal replied with her own demure smile upon her lips. "Rather amusing really. Anyways. I should probably get going Fox, Admiral Abrecan and Colonel Sylvara will want to know how it turned out."

"Of course, let me see you to the door Krystal."

Oh now he's a gentleman.

Fox stood up and walked around the table, with his body energized somewhat from that drink; she couldn't help but notice the luster in his eyes return. There was a small amount of confidence in there that burned brightly and seemed to be growing with each passing second. She couldn't deny Fox was a handsome vulpine, with his strong noble features; athletic frame and thick plush coat. Once he cleaned up and actually got some sleep, he'd be good enough to eat.

Krystal blinked to herself as her head shook side to side.

Where did that come from?

The pair arrived at the door and Fox held the knob ready to twist.

"One thing Krystal. Next time you enter my headspace like that; please, ask first if you can. If not, then do what you need to, in any circumstance I appreciate you bringing me out of that mess. But, my thoughts are my own."

The vixen clammed up as her tail went rigid as she thought her subtly had been enough. Apparently Fox was far sharper than they realized.

"O-of course Fox, I only did it…"

"Because Miyu was worried. She does that a lot. There's a reason why we call her team mom. Anyways; we'll talk more tomorrow, for now-"

"You need sleep." Krystal finished for him. "A good day or two of it."

Fox's nose wrinkled slightly from a snort. "No rest for me Krystal; I still have to make sure the rations get delivered to the ship, ammunition, fuel…." The spent vulpine went on into a list of other items before Krystal had an idea. A brilliant one if she did say so herself.

"Let me handle the logistics Fox."

The tod blinked in surprise and raised an eyebrow at his newest recruit.

"I know the ins and outs of the bureaucracy, I can get you the supplies you need much faster. You take the next couple of days off and rest. I'll get it done." She beamed, hoping to prove her worth in this capacity to her new commanding officer.

Sleep sounded so damn amazing and a couple of days off with no worries would do him a world of good.

What do I have to lose? If she screws me, it's on her.

Krystal almost blanched at Fox's choice of words as his thoughts weren't filtered or controlled and she could hear them clearly.

"Alright, Krystal, consider this your first assignment. I appreciate it."

"Y-yes, of course. I'll see that Miss Phoenix gets the materials and rations loaded onboard as soon as possible. See you in a couple of days then Fox."

"Thanks Krystal, I owe you."

The vixen smiled broadly as anxiety fell away when she stepped through the door; Fox McCloud owed her. Oh how her friends and wingmates were going to grill her as soon as she got back to the barracks. She just knew it. Regardless of that, Krystal gave a crisp salute followed by a bow and left Fox to his own devices.

As soon as the Cerinian vixen was gone, Fox returned to his trashed quarters and flopped down on the bed. The creaky thing complained from the impact before the springs fell silent. Fatigue was close to taking him as he groaned in agitation.

What am I going to do? Corneria lied to me, Pepper lied to me and Corneria will starve in less than a year… So much to do, little time to rest. And that girl Krystal…

Fox smacked his lips as if tasting the name. There was something about her that had Fox intrigued, that smile of hers had certainly caught his attention and the way her body language had been so carefree and full of joy. She had reminded him of a happier time. He missed those days before the war. The peace, the joy so many felt; but then Andross had ruined everything. Still, Fox felt something in his chest twitch as he thought of Krystal, an instinctive response to the attraction of the opposite sex. He was still a man at the end of the day and certain thoughts had begun to entertain themselves within his mind.

No… No Fox, you know where that leads. Both of us would get caught in that shitstorm, besides She's a teammate now, not someone to think of in that way. As lovely as she is; she's also an alien and an invader. The team would flip their shit as would most Cornerians… Then again, why do I care what Cornerians think? They only ever cared about what I could do for them and not the other way around.

Fox sighed as old prejudices reared their head. The orange tod rolled onto his side with closed eyes in hopes that sleep would take him once more and grant the time he needed to recover.