Chapter II: New Venture
10th of Month Seven, 2979 GST – James McCloud's personal apartment.
"…and two days ago, reports were filed regarding an underground explosion and visible smoke that had startled visitors and bypassers at the Corneria Defense Force's headquarters." A TV news host narrates the events, as told by the CDF.
"A CDF representative answered at an interview that an underground power generator exploded beneath their laboratory complex due to a malfunction." The brown vixen continues. "6 workers were killed in the explosion, and 10 injured are in recovery state. In other news, the Katina Memorial Plaza has been elected to be the host of…"
A few days after the briefing, James was at his apartment getting ready for departure. He was packing some of his belongings before heading off to Corneria Spacedock; a customized handgun, a portable deflector, some data pads, and a hologram of James and Krystal together.
James was feeling rather anxious, despite his expertise. This was something entirely different from a regular mission. Many times he had already gone into daring missions, but something of this scope was never in his mind.
Alright. I think it's time to go. I'll have to be ready for everything from now on. It's not going to be a small task, but I hope this helps Lylat in the end of the day. There's probably more to this mission than just a search and political talks… Otherwise they wouldn't have called us.
He closes his backpack, following to grab and put on his red scarf.
James takes a contemplating look outwards his room's wide window, seeing Corneria City with its ever-busy vista and skies, as he follows to take his leave from his room, quietly shutting the door.
…Time for the StarFox team to take flight again.
James arrived at his car outside of the apartment complex's entrance. Arriving there, he finds Krystal waiting for him.
"Oh, hello James. I was thinking, a mission like this…This may be our biggest venture so far, hmm..?" Krystal says, leaning back at the car. "I still can't believe we're involved in something this important… What a strange universe ours is, huh…" Krystal adds flicking her hair back, making her eyes more visible.
"And I'm sure not many people here would ever have some opportunity like this, Krystal… I guess we're lucky, heh." James says while turning up to the sky, with a distant look. "Let's make the best of this chance."
"Well, maybe not everyone could do any of this…" Krystal says. "But I have the feeling some coincidences helped a bit… Like being a charming fighter ace with a good heart, doing his best for the people he cares about…" She adds, leaning forth on James, and holding him in a soft embrace.
"Yeah, Krystal. Just a tiny bit." James replies with a smile, his tail waving to the sides slowly.
"Hehe… Ah well… Let's head off then, James. We should meet the others at the spaceport soon." Krystal giggles while entering James' car.
"Yeah... Let's go." He replies, entering the vehicle. Shortly after, he drives out from the parking into the streets, onwards to the busier and ever-lively highways of Corneria City on his way to the shuttle port, and from there, to the spacedock.
A huge complex of connected structures and space buildings was seen circled by countless small craft. The Cornerian Orbital Spacedock was decidedly as busy as the city below, being a hub of communication and transport networks. It was highly popular among travelers from other locations of Lylat; merchants and traders of all kinds, entrepreneurs, and of course, tourists.
Perhaps the lively ambiance of the station had Krystal feeling accordingly. Whatever it was, her face showed some joy as she walked off carefree with James from the transport shuttle docking bay, in the middle of a conversation.
"These places, they have such a unique feel… I haven't spent too long in stations like this, but I just love it... The crowds, the action, and space stretching into infinity just a window away…" Krystal says. "It's kind of inspiring, don't you think?"
"When you say it that way, I guess it actually does make some sense." James answers with a shrug, but in accord. "I've been around space ships like the CCV Endurance and stations ever since I can remember, so they feel more like a first than a second home to me. I don't mind living in my apartment down at Corneria City though. The view down there is nice, though to be honest, what I really missed was living in a ship of my own…" He adds, delving in nostalgia.
"Indeed, though I'm sure that feeling won't last for too long now." Krystal says. "I'm sure you had a hard time by losing the first one, though… You said your father went through a great deal of effort to get it…"
"Yeah, that he did… Losing the ship in the Aparoid conflict came at a high cost… Not just for how much it was worth in credits, but I had lots of good moments on that ship." James says.
"Hey… At least we still have the team this time. I'm sure having all of us together after all this is what matters." Krystal says with a giggle and trying to shrug off the heaviness, caressing the side of his face.
"And besides, today you'll have a new ship you can call home. Now it's ours to carry on, live in and have all-new, good memories in it…" She continues.
"Well… I think you're right, Krystal. We'll sure have quite a bit to remember in it." James says. "I was just feeling like losing the ship was like losing a last memento of my father… like I disappointed him somehow."
"Hey, cheer up… I'm sure your father would be proud of what you've become." Krystal says, giving the other fox a gentle hug.
"I suppose he would… Thank you, Krystal." James says, embracing her with his arms.
"Now come on." Krystal says, letting go of him. "I've no doubt being at the bridge again will make you feel better, James. Just like old times…" She looks at him, smiling.
The couple walks off further into the hallways and skywalks of Corneria Spaceport, onwards to meet the new ship of theirs, and towards the journey they'll set out on.
Not far off from where the couple of vulpines went by, Aldo and Sully arrived shortly after. Aldo surely had some colorful comments to make about how Sully was to be seen though; the copious amount of equipment made Sully's pace embarrassingly slow.
"So tell me… why are you bringing this load of stuff again?" Aldo asks in a rather embarrassed tone, as he was trying not to look at the clumsy, overburdened young fox besides him. "Seriously, you barely can carry the ones in your hands and you put this heavy thing on your back. Thought you'd be a bit smarter than that." He adds.
"R-really, it's important, I've got months, maybe years worth of research notes here! Log recorders, data pads, research equipment, some notes of mine and a few tools as well, all of which I've been using on the Arwing and other of our stuff since way back then. I won't go anywhere for too long without these, especially now that I can compare what we have with their technology!" Sully replies. "If you'd be so kind though, you could carry these for me, don't you think?" he adds, motioning with the packages on his hands towards Aldo.
"Aah… You're the one who's gonna use these, right?" Aldo asks.
"Yes, but—"
"There, it's all yours then. See ya." Aldo says and walks off, waving back dismissingly.
"Agh! Aldo, get back here!" Sully tries to step up to stay with Aldo before the two reach the CDF wing of the spaceport.
CVN-1614 – CCV Endurance II
The tail number printed onto the aft of ship shined in a metallic grey paint, with the emblem of the StarFox force.
To some, it may have been no more than a ship; a massive hulk of metal and circuitry welded together, but it was obviously designed to have cosmetic improvements over its predecessor. While featuring new aft-swept wings, it had sleeker shapes and a larger overall size. it was a tremendous piece of work. A few cargo shuttles could be seen entering and leaving the large docking bay of the CCV Endurance II. It would seem those were loading in the last few supplies and cargo for the mission.
James and Krystal look around the surroundings of the airlock skywalk. The busy procedures outside were muffled by the vacuum, at the same time an automated callout sounded over the station's announcer speakers.
"Cornerian Defense Force Starship – CCV Endurance II; Preparations for departure complete. Undocking process will begin shortly. All related personnel, please board the vessel."
Krystal's ears perk up shortly after. She turns around to see Aldo and Sully rushing to meet them.
"See, we're not really all that late, are we?" Sully turns to Aldo. "I told you I wouldn't take too long with the packages."
"Whatever works, I guess." Aldo answers, shrugging. "I see our lovesick couple is already here, too…"
"Oh, here we go again…" Sully sighs; whenever Aldo would start talking about the two as a couple, humor remarks of terrible caliber were to be expected.
Krystal heard his comment, but let him pass by as the avian and Sully get nearby.
A few moments later, she winces and turns to Aldo.
"Hey, Aldo? I just heard what you said about us, and I was thinking…" Krystal begins to say, with a slight smirk.
"What, got something to tell us? 'Cause I know you usually get all flustered when you talk about this stuff and all…" He says, wincing at her.
"Not exactly. It's just… For what it's worth, I never had you pegged as a… well, 'lone wolf' type of guy, you know? But that's okay, not everyone's lucky in that regard… Oh, and… at least we're a couple…" Krystal winces with her eyes and quips in a suggestive tone, holding James closely by his arm.
Aldo definitely was rather embarrassed as his confident smirk turned into a startled frown after Krystal said that. James and Sully can't help but to laugh a bit at this.
"Hey! I, ah..." Aldo tries to come up with something to get back at the teammate… in failure. "Gah, whatever…"
"All this time passed, and still same old Aldo." James comments, following to chuckle a bit. "Come on guys, we're close to the airlock now."
The group gets to the end of the airlock corridor and reaches the decontamination chamber. A few moments pass with the initial scans, but something triggers a repeated beeping from the security warning of the chamber.
"Warning, an unknown contaminant has been detected within the body of Mission Specialist Krystal. Cautionary biohazard control measures are advised."
For a moment, Krystal is surprised at the callout, but then she remembers the incident back at the Initiative's underground complex.
Oh no, it must be seeing the Dust as a hazard… This can't be good… She thinks.
"W-wait, hold up, false alarm! She's not contaminated! This is an experimental—ah, medical nanite; you can scan her again for hazardous elements!" Sully says, in a racy statement.
The beeping continues for a few moments, until it stops and another callout from the virtual interface is heard.
"Acknowledged. No chemical or biological countermeasures required. Compound scan results deem [UNKNOWN CONTAMINANT] non-toxic. Please stand by for boarding clearance from Station Control."
…Aaaand here we go… Sully thinks, quickly trying to come up with an excuse for the checkpoint being triggered.
"This is Station Control." a comms panel in the chamber activates "StarFox team, we've had a little bit of a warning triggered in the checkpoint here… Oh. Nevermind, I've just read the logs and apparently the warning was about Ms. Krystal… I'm sorry; some of our scanner databases still aren't updated to her biology. I'm opening an exception here; you are clear to board your vessel. Safe travels."
"Um… Thank you, and my apologies for the interruption." Krystal responds a little awkwardly.
Sully sighs in relief to hear the intercom respond. It would be not simple to excuse themselves from explaining what sort of substance was within Krystal if they were barred and interrogated, and surely it'd put a dent in the Initiative's secrecy. Luckily, the fact Krystal is not from Lylat was a decent cover.
"That was close… There'd be a lot of trouble if they had to interrogate us…" James says.
"I guess we're lucky the VI recognized it's not toxic." Sully replies.
A callout is heard after Sully's comment.
"Decontamination process complete. Opening airlock…"
The chamber opens to reveal the brand new ship under the StarFox team's colors. The inside look of the CCV Endurance II was distinctively a scheme of steel grey and light tones, with the interiors laid out mainly in practical, yet still stylish shapes, with slopes and curves all in one large hull. The team was met with a wide, spacious deck that held a portion of the crew, in what would seem to be a lobby with a small number of officer stations.
The team members enter their all-new core of operations. All things considered, they were more than right to feel at a place they belong. With new crew and allies, it was certain that StarFox team would have a righteously spectacular return to activity.
Not long after the group walks in, one of the officers of the ship—a husky with short black hair—promptly comes to their meeting.
"So, our shining stars are making a comeback in style, huh? Alex Clay, Flight Lieutenant of the CCV Endurance II. I saw you in action back at Katina in the Venomian offensive, joined up with the Initiative once I heard they would try getting you guys to work in something big. I'll be serving role as the helmsman of the ship." the canine says, greeting James with a handshake. "The crew won't disappoint you; all of us here are honored to take part in this project with you."
"The feeling is mutual." James answers. "We all know what's at stake here; we'll do our best and I'm sure the results will speak for themselves."
"Confident, huh. I like that." Alex replies. "We've all seen how capable you are. A few others of us have fought on Katina as well. Most were on the fleets against the Rebellion years later. The crew knows who's leading them, and even the rookies fresh from the academy have a good deal of respect towards you—they're itching to see the legendary team in action."
During the conversation, a digitized female voice is heard by the team over their earpieces.
"Perhaps I should inform you that I will also take place in the operations."
"And who's this?" James asks.
"I am GF-II A.I.D.A.: the ship's Artificial Intelligence and Digital Assistant." says the voice.
"We keep calling her AIDA for short. Makes it easier for everyone to pronounce." Alex adds.
"My role in this operation is to perform varied tasks, involving crew and resource coordination, maintenance on software and the virtual backend of the ship, as well as minor repairs on physical sections provided they are required." AIDA states.
"Wait, does that mean we won't have ROB with us?" James asks. "Sorry if I sound too attached, but ROB is irreplaceable."
"Actually, Captain, you'll be pleased to hear that is not the case." AIDA answers. "In fact, I think it would be best if you went down to Engineering later. ROB would like to see you once there is time."
"…What do you mean, he would 'like' to see me?" James asks, surprised.
"ROB is… Well, I suggest you to rather meet ROB personally later." AIDA states before closing the channel.
"I'm sure we can cover this later, Captain." Alex says. "You talk to AIDA again once we're done with the undocking and departure procedures. For now, you'd better head to the CIC."
"Indeed, we shouldn't keep them waiting, James." Krystal comments.
"Alright, show us the way, Lieutenant." James says in accord.
After taking an elevator from the crew deck and walking through some of the ship's hallways, James and his team were met with salutes in the command room; with a diverse Lylatian crew, the CCV Endurance II's combat information center was outfitted with several viewscreens and AR monitors at the walls; additionally, holoprojectors gave the room a distinct dark blue mood. The officer stations were placed in an arrow layout, all facing towards the fore of the ship.
"Welcome to the new command center of the CCV Endurance, Captain." Alex says. "Might as well get comfortable at your officer stations. We'll be departing soon."
"Huh, it's quite larger than the original's bridge." James comments on the sizeable area. "Seems like we've got more people at the command center, too."
"With a larger ship there's the need for more officer stations to monitor and manage what's happening." Alex explains. "AIDA might help, but that doesn't mean it can handle all systems by herself. Most people don't think it should anyway…" He mutters for a second, before continuing. "I'm sure you'll get used to it though."
"Officers manage functions such as navigation, engine control, weapons targeting, drone launching and fighter craft management. My interface handles the power supply for the ship systems, and other functions which include, but are not limited to communications, onboard transport and security feed." AIDA continues. "If granted permissions, I can also personally take full control of the helm, drones, vital subsystems and weapons systems in the event of a critical crew-related emergency."
"Basically AIDA makes sure the ship is in its best conditions on the run, and if something happens, she'll make sure the ship will still fly and keep the crew safe." Alex concludes. "Here's hoping it doesn't come down to that."
"…Eh, I'm not sure if I feel too comfortable with an AI in charge of the ship. Are you sure this is safe?" Aldo comments.
"You're definitely not the first to feel that way, though I don't think we can just dismantle the AI core because someone doesn't like it—that would probably get us all fired." Alex replies. "But hey, it's part of the job, and we haven't seen anyone get spaced by the AI or anything like that."
During the conversation, a callout from the spaceport control is heard.
"Lieutenant Clay of starship CCV Endurance II, this is Corneria Spacedock Control. Your ship is cleared to departure. Releasing docking clamps now…"
"Acknowledged. We're on our way." He answers.
"I think it's time you sit back and enjoy the ride, Captain. I'll be on the helm if you need anything." Alex says.
"Okay. Thanks for the welcoming, Alex." James answers. "Now guys, to your stations. It's finally time to launch."
The team members take to their seats in the main officer stations, as Alex takes the helm. The metallic sounds from the large docking clamps being released resonate across the ship, while the large craft slowly drifts from the area, finally being clear of the station's docking bay.
"All clear, powering main engines." Alex announces as he engages the thrusters.
The light hum of the engines turning the ship away from the station grows into a powerful roar as the ship accelerates away from the spacedock into the void. Shining with the reflected sunlight, the ship speeds outwards into the void, bearing the StarFox emblem on its tail.
"Quite the ride we got here now, eh James?" Aldo turns to James, smiling enthusiastically.
"That's just half of it." Alex glances back and says.
"AIDA," he calls "begin warp drive activation. Destination; Sector 4."
"Affirmative. Entering warp in fifteen seconds."
"We're heading to the Gateway, guys. I'm sure you'll be impressed." Alex tells the team.
"This is Engineering! Deflectors ready and core stable. All systems green." A callout is heard.
"All systems check!" Clay states. "Entering warp…"
"Warp core activated." AIDA announces.
"…Now!" Clay announces.
The engines' roar turns mute for a moment, as an energy pulse rushes along the ship's surroundings in a bubble, from the front of its hull to the aft, launching the craft away with a blast into warp speed.
"That… was amazing!" Sully exclaims in excitement. "Look at those readings! I've seen the experimental warp devices from the fleet before, but they had to be used in short bursts as the cores weren't able to stabilize the warp fields for too long!" He says in awe, quickly eyeing the panels and displays from his officer station.
"Heh... Deflectors stabilized, warp core running smoothly, no abnormalities found onboard." Alex says, inputting some commands on the helm terminal. "Pretty smooth first flight on this one. We'll be arriving at the marker soon, Captain." He adds, turning to James.
"Sounds good, let me know about anything else we might need to do." James replies. "Oh and also, I'll be leaving the CIC for a while: I guess I'll be taking a tour around the ship. Be sure to call when I'm needed over here, Alex." He adds, getting up from his chair.
"I want to go too! I have to see more of this ship!" Sully says as he hops from his officer station, wagging his tail in enthusiasm.
"Sure, you can tag along, Sully." James says. "Aldo, Krystal, any of you are coming?"
"Nah, I'll just be sitting here for a while. Not really into tours, I can check the ship's map if I get lost." Aldo answers, leaning back at his chair and looking out the CIC's main viewscreens into space.
"Actually, James, I'll be staying too. I'll be talking to AIDA here in the meantime. You two can go ahead." Krystal says.
"Okay then. I guess I'll meet you guys in a bit." James says.
James and Sully enter the lift from the CIC and start to head down into the other levels of the ship.
"Hm, I remembered something." James says.
"Oh? What is it?" Sully asks.
"AIDA. Alex said you can take full control of the ship if you're allowed to." James states.
"That is correct." AIDA replies.
"He suggested the crew doesn't trust you entirely for that purpose…" James continues. "It… isn't going to become a problem, is it?"
"As you know, Captain, AIs can have personality, individual thought, and free will, provided they are advanced enough. Trusting an AI such as myself into full control of the ship would feel the same as trusting your safety to one you do not fully know." AIDA states. "It is only natural organics fear what they do not know. But being both a crew and Joint Initiative member, I am not only encouraged but compelled to comply with the wishes of the crew and leading staff."
"So you don't have anything against being barred from your full potential all the time?" Sully questions. "That seems kinda forced."
"This is not the case, Captian. I am not being bound by limitations that would affect my awareness and personality. I simply have limited control over the ship unless specific conditions are met. I am aware the crew does not fully trust me as of yet, but I cannot judge them for the fear of AIs." AIDA says.
James and Sully stay silent for a moment, eyeing one another sternly.
"You should not preoccupy yourself with this matter though, Captain. I am still a member of the Initiative and your crew. My peers may not entrust the full control of the ship, but I seek to meet the expectations of my superiors in first place." AIDA says. "As for the crew, I am sure they will learn not to fear, in due time."
The elevator chirps to signal arrival at the Crew Deck.
"I suppose this would be a good place to start your survey." AIDA states.
"Oh- Yeah, uh… Let us begin the tour then!" Sully answers, still wandering in thoughts.
"Ah yes. Carry on, AIDA." James says.
Leaving the elevator, James and Sully step into the crew deck. Not as large as the main hall, it still quite lively. The noisy ambiance of consoles and equipment blended with the chatter of the officers and the rest of the crew filled this area of the ship.
"This is the Crew Deck. Most of the crew can be found here during intermission periods of their tasks. The room we are currently in is one of the several multipurpose rooms, where officers can report their assignments to the chain of command or simply engage in a social environment." AIDA explains.
"Huh, I see. So it's basically the 'mess hall' from most CDF ships and other vessels." Sully says.
"That is a way to see it." AIDA says. "It is also in this level where most of the crew quarters are located."
During the conversation as James and Sully walk through the ship, James accidentally walks into one of the crewmembers of the ship.
"Hey! Watch where you're going—Oh! Captain McCloud!" The officer complains, though stepping back after noticing who he ran into. "I'm sorry, where are my manners… I can't believe it's really you."
"It's fine; those things happen. I'm just touring the ship, so I'm a bit distracted." James replies.
"I understand—I hope you find everything in order. I guess I was lucky to see you here and now, though!" The crewmember replies.
"What do you mean?" Sully asks.
"A few guys and I made a bet that the one James McCloud would be actually captaining the ship rather than someone with a similar name. You just made me win a bet, heh." He says with a chuckle. "Sean's gonna soil himself once he hears he owes me a month of drinks… Anyway, I'll be going to my quarters now, have a good day, Captain."
"Speaking of which—AIDA, in which part of the crew deck are our quarters located?" James speaks up after the crewmember walks away.
"The head officer quarters are located in a separate deck rather than in the crew deck; the three quarters have been customized to accommodate you adequately to your preferences."
"Hold on a second, you said three rooms? But there's four of us—"
"Captain, need I remind you about your relation with…"
James' eyes widen a bit as he realizes AIDA meant him and Krystal, followed by a slightly startled face and a bit of blushing from him.
"I'm sorry… I assume you would rather have your relationship kept as a private matter?" AIDA states.
"Well ah, if it were that easy… It's not really a secret or anything, and it gets pretty obvious at times, but…" James answers awkwardly, scratching the back of his head.
"I see. I recommend proceeding to the other levels of the ship. There are other sections you might want to see." AIDA says.
James and Sully go further into the ship, looking around, with some of the crew greeting the foxes with a salute on their way.
"…so the main fusion core provides power to the essential ship systems, while there's a separate singularity core for the warp drive and barriers, is that right?" Sully reviews his findings after leaving an elevator, entering Engineering Deck.
"Precisely. The fusion core also powers the atmospheric and impulse engines, while our singularity core—known as the Kugelblitz drive—is equipped with Dust-enhanced shielding systems that stabilize the warp bubble and redirect incoming radiation from it, ensuring safety of the ship crew and that the systems are fully operational." AIDA continues.
"That's impressive, AIDA. I think I remember something said that one of the reasons the Corneria Science Academy had trouble getting stable, long range warp travel to work was to solve the black-body radiation income from the warp effects, and the antimatter reaction core as power source was inefficient and expensive for that, or so I heard." James comments. "They could limit it to small craft like survey probes, and during the Aparoid conflict, ship warp drive refits were kind of a desperate measure made hastily. I remember a few cases of light radiation sickness being reported at some ship crews."
"Provided advanced shielding is in place, safety and functionality are ensured by stabilization of the spacecraft in warp. That is achieved through the use of both the shielding and hull plating that is protected from vacuum fluctuations in the quantization field." AIDA explains. "This technique is known for the past centuries for Joint Initiative-participant races as the Casimir Effect, which helped most species achieve space exploration."
"Hmm… I'll have to gather more info about this later, those technologies are amazing!" Sully comments in excitement. "It'd be really useful in my research into the Arwing prototype jump drive."
"I will arrange some insights and research notes into it." AIDA states.
"AIDA, I just remembered you mentioned ROB before. Since we're already here on Engineering, where could we meet him?" James asks.
"ROB's physical unit is in the Robotics Lab. It is not far from here. I will mark the position on your hand terminal's map." AIDA states.
James' hand terminal displays a holographic map guiding through the corridors. As James and Sully follow, the short walk among the corridors of the ship reveals few things of special interest, aside from the usual conduit pipes and coolant tubes at the walls along the path.
The pair arrives the room with a relatively small officer count, not more than a handful scientists and a security officer. Mainly what was to be seen there was a workshop with a disassembled maintenance drone, possibly for repairs, as well as countless tools and gadgets. The only thing out of the usual was the couple containers of combat drones, and three advanced android assembly capsules.
"One moment, let me just… Oh, Captain James! I'm honored to be able to meet you personally, sir." A young-adult science officer was working on his terminal, but then looks up to see James, and excitedly salutes the captain properly. He was also a Cornerian fox, it would seem.
"Heh, 'at ease'. No need to be all formal with me, I like treating all of my crew at the same level." James says.
"Ah, I see—I'm just surprised you came down here at Engineering. This is our general workshop—also our Robotics Lab, as I'm sure you could notice." The officer gestures back to the rest of the room. "I'm Simon Green, experimental technology and Dust specialist. I got selected for the crew off the Science Division's Division Omega—I'm sure you've been there, haven't you?"
"We went to Division Omega for our briefing and proper introductions to the Initiative, yes. We had a run in with those Craver Drone Troopers though." James says, commenting about the fight. "Those things are damn nasty."
"Ah, I see. I actually was stationed at Division Omega before I got the offer to be here—Lucky break for me, huh?" Simon says. "I'm sure you were able to help out flawlessly though; I've heard the stories of you in action, seems like casualties were kept to a minimum. I heard Aldo managed to take down one of the troopers in close quarters alongside you!"
"Well, you could say that, yeah. I'm more than glad to help someone in need, so if you or the rest of the crew ever need something directly from me, just be sure to let me know… Though, keep an eye out for Aldo if he ever asks you for a favor, especially if he says he's going to pay you later for it. I think he's better at dodging debts than gunfire." James says in a mocking tone.
"Nah, I'm sure he wouldn't do that to the crew… Well, I guess, anyway." Simon comments. "A-anyway, I assume you're here to meet ROB! Am I right?"
"That's right. I have the feeling he's gotten some upgrades as well…" James replies.
"Heh, you'll be happy to see ROB is better than ever." He says. "Hey guys, power on capsule 01; it's time to bring ROB64 online."
The other technicians pause their tasks and move towards the control terminals near the assembly capsules. As the keypad input tones sound across the tech lab, the capsule activates and depressurizes. After the small bursts of air, the fully open capsule now reveals a distinguishable android figure, painted out in steel-grey and gold details.
Its gold visor starts to glow, as ROB steps out of the capsule and starts getting bearings of the environment.
"Processing system fully operational. Main data storage at nominal state. AI core under optimal parameters. ROB64, reporting online." ROB announces.
ROB stops for a moment, looking down at the feet, then upwards at the captain's face after he turns towards James.
"Ah, Captain. It is a pleasure to be meeting you again." ROB greets James with a handshake. "I trust the new ship and crew are in agreeable conditions."
"Heh, it's been a while, ROB." James taps ROB's shoulder pad. "Good to see you're still the same."
"And 'better than ever', as it might be proper to add. As you might see, little has been changed on my visual appearance for familiarity, though my internal systems went through an overhaul to make me more… 'life-like' perhaps." ROB comments.
"I noticed. Your speech sounds way more fluid and natural." James replies.
"My systems are now capable of providing more convincing behavior patterns as seen in organics... with certain caveats regarding facial expressions and body language, as you can see." ROB answers, gesturing to his own 'face'.
"Still, the old ROB everyone liked around is back! Glad to see you're still sticking around with us, ROB." Sully says as he steps near.
"I thank you both for the reception into activity. Well then, shall we proceed with our duties? If I'm correctly informed, you were both taking a tour through the ship—"
ROB is cut off by a voice callout over the room's speakers.
"Alex to Captain, we're almost at the Gateway Sector." Alex says over the callout. "You should head back here with Sully. And it seems like ROB is already back online… feel free to bring him as well."
"Alright Alex, thanks for the heads-up." James speaks at his communicator.
"Oh, we'll be getting through the gateway! Let's go, I have to see this!" Sully says with hearty enthusiasm.
James nods at ROB and sleepy, and the three start heading out towards the corridor, leaving the lab behind.
James, ROB and Sully drop by the CIC again. The holographic navigation panels above the officer stations and maps in the surroundings pan to focus the target location as they rapidly approach.
"Leaving warp in eighteen seconds, Captain." Alex announces.
"Oh, how was it, James?" Krystal looks back to see the vulpine. "I see ROB is already back online... seems like he got a renewed look!" She says, smiling at the sight of the familiar "face".
"I am pleased to see you again as well, Krystal." ROB states.
"Alright guys, we've arrived. The Joint Initiative's Intergalactic Gateway." Alex interrupts the talk.
A whirring noise is heard echoing through the ship as its warp drive disengages, dropping the craft out of warp speed with an energy burst seen beyond the aft of the ship from the dissipating warp field. From the ship, the team can see an impressively large construction, resembling two large deflector dishes facing each other, with four pylons on their backs, while energy discharges occasionally jolt off to each other.
A transmission notification is heard across the CIC, until Alex opens communications.
"Cornerian Defense Force Warship, CCV Endurance II, this is Gateway Omega traffic control. We've been informed of your mission and we are ready to activate the spatial distortion generators; stand by for clearance." The message is heard.
"Affirmative, standing by at marker." Alex acknowledges the chatter.
The CCV Endurance comes to a halt while the Gateway powers up. A strong blue light is seen from the pylons as they progressively energize. Not long after, a particle field starts forming in between the two dishes, with the occasional energy discharge reaching its center as the particles are drawn into it.
After a few moments the particles in the center form an energy sphere that progressively becomes brighter as it grows. The space around the sphere begins to slightly distort, with the particles between the constructs quickly being drawn in and orbiting the sphere at high velocities.
The distortion intensifies, with the space just at the edge of the sphere bending. Its white color fades into darkness, with only the bright particles sustaining a barely visible glowing border around the sphere. Lastly, a pulse of energy is sent from both dishes of the Gateway, distorting a considerable space around the sphere between both of its dishes.
The wormhole seems to stabilize at this point, and at the same time, the transit control reports the situation:
"Spatial distortion under control, all parameters green. Gateway stabilized. CCV Endurance II; cleared for transit."
The clearance is announced and once again the thrusters of the large starship fire up to throttle it forward. Flying towards the Gateway, the sight ahead of the ship becomes distorted as it closes into the wormhole, skewing anything in the space behind the wormhole from discernible form.
As they traverse the anomaly, the ship endures a few small tremors, as hull resonances from the transit could be even heard across the interior of the starship. The team is both startled and anxious, as the turbulence continues for a short while.
The starship then reaches the other end of wormhole, as the ship accelerates beyond an identical construction to the one they just left, finally giving them the sight of an entirely new galaxy. The galaxy that was once home of the mysterious Endless Empire, and now to the strange new civilizations Lylat would meet.
"…Agent One here. Reporting positive on transit as expected… I'm awaiting further orders." A female voice says.
"Good. You know your mission; keep a low profile and observe the targets and what they are looking for." The agent's superior orders. "If they detect your presence, lethal force is not authorized—and remember; you're on your own. Be aware that should they capture you, it'll mean our entire operation is jeopardized."
"Sir… Are you sure about this..? I feel it's still too early for us to intercept or contact the—"
"I think your superiors already informed you as to the critical importance of the infiltration operations, especially now that we need to observe these high-value targets, Agent." The man says, interrupting the agent. "Once we can figure out what are the Initiative's intentions, we may approach them formally."
"But is this really what our clients need? There are other ways we could approach this matter; how are you so sure there's no other way around—"
"Agent One, if you think you're not capable or willing to take place in the taskforce, it is not our concern, but at this point, you should already know more than you needed if you ever planned to abstain from these operations." The man cuts the agent again, in a cold statement. "And remember, it doesn't matter who you are and how close you are to the President, you're sworn as one of us, and if your loyalty to our cause is questionable, you'll either need to keep silence, or we will have to make sure you don't let anything out."
"…"
"I thought we already had discussed our goals before. Now, are we clear?"
"…Yes sir. I will keep a low profile and follow the targets to report findings ASAP. Commencing radio silence…"
Trailing some particles from the wormhole behind the spacecraft, the CCV Endurance II reaches the marker past the Gateway they just left. The StarFox team members weren't sure of their feeling: awe, fear, anxiety, or just shock from the traversing itself, but they knew that now they had taken the first step on their mission. Exhilarated at the traversing, Alex seems to have felt a certain adrenaline rush from the transit:
"Well now wasn't THAT a spectacular entrance. Should have known simulations never do proper justice to the real deal… Anyway, welcome to Neutral Space." He says, spinning back his chair. "Are you guys okay back there? I hope none of you passed out—I'm not gonna carry anyone to the medbay."
"Ah... Still awake here. Looks like Sully hasn't passed out yet either. Going through the portal seems like a big deal, huh…" Aldo answers Alex, shaking his head a little.
"I think I'm alright, minor headache… Gah, at least it's not like the high-G trainings for pilots back at the start of the space age…" Sully says in response, his hands against his head in some discomfort.
"That was intense… is this part of the transit's effects?" James asks, rubbing the left hand on his face as he gets up.
"To this date many unusual effects have been observed on organics during post-wormhole – and in this case – gateway transit events." ROB comments. "The occurrence of energy fluctuations such as the one we just have experienced is not uncommon. However, there is no consistent data proving those can cause effects more serious than some physical weariness, slight psychological distress, or temporary disorientation."
"So, no need to worry about any dizziness or something like that. It's all normal for first-time travelers. If anything feels wrong, we have the medbay." Alex says.
"Alright. It sounds like Aldo and I are okay, and it doesn't look like Sully needs to go there either." James says, before turning to Krystal's station. "And Krystal?.."
"...Krystal?"
Somewhat surprisingly, Krystal is not to be found on her station; she is leaning on the guard railing at the front end of the CIC instead, gazing into space as shown by the viewscreens.
"Don't worry, James. I'm alright." Krystal replies, looking back over her shoulder while smiling at James.
"I think the only odd thing I felt during the traversing… was something familiar." She says, looking back out into the countless stars ahead.
"What do you mean?" James asks.
"It's strange; when we were passing through the gateway, I… Was reminded of home. Cerinia, that is…" Krystal continues stargazing, lost in her thoughts. "I don't know why that would happen right now. And it wasn't like being homesick... It's hard to describe…"
"Heh, it's so odd…" She chuckles and blushes slightly for a moment. "Sorry, I think I'm getting lost on that déjà vu there… But I'm fine, thank you for asking."
"Maybe it's the Dust within you right now?.. After all, it came from this galaxy, didn't it?" James says, approaching her and leaning on the guard rail by her side.
"Maybe so…" Krystal shrugs, uncertain of what she was feeling. "Maybe it's just the Dust getting too much on my mind."
Krystal leans on James after speaking. He holds her in his arms, slightly surprised.
"The others are still here, you know…" James says with a slightly uncomfortable smile, still holding her.
"Don't worry about that, James…" Krystal says, careless.
James was a bit embarrassed, being in a display of affection right in front of his peers. But he still was happy to have Krystal with him.
As the vulpines held each other close, James noticed something unusual. Holding Krystal at his embrace, he sees Krystal's nape barely covered by her hair. Light pulsed a few times with Dust patterns in her neck, showing through her fur and skin.
"...Krystal, do you feel alright?" James' expression of happiness changes to a slightly concerned one as he lets Krystal slip from his embrace.
"Hm? James, I'm feeling okay… Is something wrong?" She looks at James with a puzzled look on her face, only to James' increasing worry, as her eyes at the time had the glowing Dust pattern within the irises, pulsing slowly and rotating, as if gears in a clock, fading off over time.
"…James?"
Later that day, Krystal had been taken down to medical bay upon the 'overgrowth' of the nanomachines. James was pacing around the laboratory whilst Krystal was enduring a series of scans inside a medical capsule.
"Anomalous Dust activity scan completed." AIDA calls out, unlocking the pressurized medical capsule afterwards. Krystal steps out of the capsule with a confused look; the active Dust inside her body was giving strange visual sign, but she didn't feel any kind of stress whatsoever – if anything at all.
Simon gives a few commands into the nearby terminal before transferring its data to a mobile datapad on his hands. Looking visibly tired, he yawns. It seems he had been recently woken up from his sleep.
"Aah… I know I'm the Dust technology specialist in this ship but, what kind of timing..." he says, rubbing his right hand on his eyes and shaking his head.
"Huh… Whoa, what's this?.." Simon's ears perk up, and his eyelids rise as his attention is caught by the datapad while reading the data.
"…Alright, from what it seems, I'll have to go over two things with you, Krystal." Simon says, as he flips the datapad around so the other two can see its content.
"After the incident at Division Omega, Krystal's innate ESP abilities apparently made Dust integrate to her neural system at a faster speed than other accidental Dust exposures." He says.
"It's quite a surprise it even adhered to her nerve system at all." Simon continues, showing another scan. "The scan data shows Krystal can even have improved senses, reaction time, and may be able to perform electronics handling via Dust control with some training and proper instruction. I don't see any obvious negative effects right now… Well, in theory."
"…'in theory'?" James asks, arms crossed.
"It would require some training with Dust to fully assess her potential abilities. Medical and service records say Dust-exposed individuals hold superior abilities and some unique powers compared to most people, despite some seemingly experiencing only discreet improvements in their own skills." Simon explains.
"Hm… And if that applies to me, then I'll need to pass through said tests and Dust training, I see. While I don't know how much I'm capable of yet, I have to admit enhanced abilities would be useful." Krystal says.
"Hold up though; here's the second thing I need you to keep in mind." Simon cuts in. "Due to the fast development of Dust in your nerve system, it is quickly spreading to other organs and tissue as well."
"What happens after that?" She asks.
"Dust exposures – both of intentional or accidental causes – are unpredictable when it comes to results. We still do not fully understand how the process works with each individual, but we know that if it does not prove itself as a hazard, the most likely occurrence is that it will not give results." AIDA says through the nearby interface. "Special cases might encounter benefits from this element, and others may find it to be, in a manner of speaking, a proverbial 'double-edged sword' power."
"So what you're saying is… Some collateral effects may happen from the Dust within me…" Krystal says while looking down at both of her hands.
"The current spread rate shows that in less than a month your entire nerve system and most tissues will be integrated to Dust. This can become an asset, but as AIDA said, it can also cause problems if collateral effects happen." The young technician explains. "Higher psychological stress will progressively make powers harder to control, at the same time excessive usage of your powers will drain your physical energies considerably."
"Push the limits further, and you'll put your physical self under heavy stress and pain. And if you don't stop even so far…" Simon continues, in a concerned tone.
"According to previous studies into Dust-augmentation and other grafts with this technology, there is a 32.7% chance that Dust Adepts might suffer nerve system stress damage due to endurance of intense Dust ability use." AIDA states. "There are also reported cases of physical rejection to the Dust systems after some time in the individual, though the causes of the latter are unknown…"
Krystal looks up again eyeing Simon, then James, progressively more worried as she listens to AIDA and Simon. She leans back on a wall next to a window, lost in thought about possible side effects.
She'd have to make a decision here. Whether Krystal would find some way to control the Dust or seek for some manner of removing it was still to be seen, but what concerned her most were the risks involved with the nanomachines. To have a small concentration would pose lesser risks if any, but soon her body would be overrun with those.
"I… Alright then… Simon, if you could find the time later, please begin the procedures to test and further train me on Dust usage… " Krystal says with a sigh, looking into space over her shoulder, out the observation window of the medical lab.
"Ah… Will do, ma'am. I'll get back to you once I've arranged some proper training materials and tests on the Dust." Simon answers.
After Simon walks off the medical room, James steps close to Krystal, holding her hands.
"James… I'll admit, I'm a bit worried about what will happen next…" Krystal says, sinking into thoughts of the risks in the newfound abilities.
James embraces her reassuringly, caressing the back of her head while holding her gently.
"Krystal… I'm sure you'll be fine. I know it sounds risky now, but you're not just anyone." He says, holding her closely.
He pitches her head up by her muzzle with a gentle touch of his hand, looking into her eyes.
"I know that you'll be able to get through this, Krystal. So don't let it become a hurdle in your way. And from where I see it, you can very well make this into something useful for all of us." He continues.
"Thank you… That's flattering of yours to say. It's just… I think this is all too much at once. Everything with the Joint Initiative, the new crew and ship, and the Dust… I'll need some time to collect my thoughts about this…" Krystal says, resting her head onto James. "I'm happy that you're always so nice to me, though…"
The two continue holding each other for a few moments, before letting go.
"Crew notice: We are approaching Alpha Gateway's far side checkpoint. Captain McCloud, please report to the CIC."AIDA announces throughout the ship intercom panels.
Krystal lets out a short sigh of relief, then smiles at James, still thoughtful about the consequences of the Dust in her, but now less worried and less overwhelmed.
"Well… I guess we should head there now. Thanks again… I think all I need is some rest once the day is over." She says, holding his left hand with both of her own.
James responds only with a nod and a smile, the both walking off the medbay, hands held.
"Ah, they're back."
Aldo spins his chair to face the pair entering the CIC while talking to Sully.
"Hey, looks like you're fine, but still, the bright pattern that was on you… What the heck was that all about?" Sully asks, looking at Krystal's glowing markings in her eyes.
"Well… Apparently the Dust really seems to have gotten along well with my body… It's won't be long now until most of my systems are integrated to the nanomachines." She answers, holding her hands down together. "Nothing feels quite different just yet, so I'm not sure what can happen next, but I don't feel any disturbances…"
"Oh… That sounds a bit dangerous, though." Sully replies. "Will you be okay?"
"I'm not too sure if it's any danger… I'm told it may enable me to amplify my abilities with proper training. Though what I'm worried about is possible rejection risks or side effects from overstressing…" Krystal continues.
"Overstressing? Eh. If that'll be a problem in the long run then you'd better get rid of it, Krys." Aldo says in a condescending tone.
"…Got something to say, Aldo..?" James sighs, responding in some disapproval.
"I mean really, I don't want come across like an ass here, but I'm just saying that if this Dust thing makes her unable to go through pressuring situations, how's that gonna help during missions?" He questions, gesturing with hands at Krystal. "I don't know how much help it'll be if she has to remain calm and cool in the middle of starship assaults, dogfights, firefights… If stress can cause problems to happen, then she might as well stay out of our missions."
"Aldo…." James begins in frustration, trying to keep calm. "Okay, look… I don't really like the way you're putting it, but if it's true— if this starts to create problems, it can get in the way." James answers, with a short sigh. "For now we don't even know if Krystal will have any of these side effects yet, and I'm sure just regular combat won't put her through enough overstress to cause issues with Dust usage, so all we need to do is keep an eye out for how things are progressing with the nanomachines." James continues. "If it's just a new set of skills, then I don't think we need to go out of our way for anything. And if it starts becoming a problem, then we'll figure something out."
"That much I can handle. But seriously, if this turns out to get in the way, we might just have half a team member instead of one. So keep an eye out for her." Aldo replies.
"Aldo, James… While I appreciate both your concerns, I don't think there's much point in arguing and speculating over it. We don't know yet if anything will even happen with the Dust I have now. That's exactly why I'll try my best to keep this under control." Krystal speaks up. "I promise I won't let this get in our way."
"Thank you, Krystal. I'm glad you'll be giving your best on the mission as usual." James says. "Now, we should—"
Just before James continues his speech, the CIC echoes with collision course alarms. Quickly, James and the others resume their stations.
"Hey, what's going on?" James says over the captain's chair intercom, the others returning to their stations as well.
"Proximity alert, Captain. We have three cruiser ships blocking our way." ROB calls out, quickly sorting through his station for info. "Their weapons are hot. Raising our kinetic barriers."
Among the noise of the ship crew and the computer terminals, the startled crew and the audible warnings, a communications alert chirps across the CIC.
"Captain, incoming transmission." AIDA states.
"What?.. Put it onscreen, AIDA." James responds.
The sounds stop as the holographic screen activates. At the screen, the captain of one of the ships speaks up, seemingly the same species as Commander Ford of the Joint Initiative. Wearing a light grey uniform with gold and red trim, distinguishable from the other officers in the ship whose outfits are only steel-trimmed dark grey.
"This is the commanding officer of the U.E.S. Vigil, Captain Karl Acturus of the United Empire Navy unit guarding the sector. Your ship has originated from the Gateway, and recently around this area, several Joint Initiative and trading vessels have been reporting attacks and going missing after encounters with raiders of unknown origin." The captain of one of their ships starts to speak, with both the CCV Endurance and the three cruisers in front of it stopping in place.
"Your warship is not recognized at the official United Empire starship records, and it is clearly of a battleship class with considerable firepower." The human states rather coldly. "Rest assured, attempting any acts of aggression will be met armed response. Unidentified vessel, state your intentions."
"This is Captain James McCloud speaking from the Cornerian starship, CCV Endurance II. We're here on a request on behalf of the Joint Initiative." James responds, standing up from his chair. "We're here on a mission to investigate any possible aggressors and the ship disappearance sites. The same attackers may be enemies of both your races and factions, and ours. We are scheduled to follow to a diplomatic assembly after reaching a resupply outpost, and then scouting the sector. We have no hostile intentions against any of the Empire Navy. Transmitting our clearance log and credentials now."
"Hm… So you're with the Joint Initiative as well… Indeed there has been word about the Initiative's recent accomplishments with the first contact in a system past the Gateway. You must be a member of the new species they've encountered." Captain Acturus replies, as he receives the data from the CCV Endurance.
"Our starship has been built with aid of Joint Initiative engineers and technology. However, we are not responsible for these attacks. This is our first arrival in this sector, and we have been also instructed to keep alert around the Gateway sector for any unknown attackers." James explains.
"I see… One moment—Commander, clear the alert over all hands and the support cruisers." The captain looks back another officer to order. "Pardon our overzealous approach, Captain McCloud. Due to the recent attacks, we have been ordered to keep strict security and monitor any suspicious activity while on patrol. As long as you and your crew do not disturb order in this sector or other areas of neutral space, you will be granted passage." The human turns back to James on the communications screen, with their weapon readings powering down.
"Thank you, Captain Karl. We'll continue with our mission." James states, while sitting back at his chair.
"You are free to proceed. Acturus out." The comm. screen closes as the warning status of the CCV Endurance clears as well.
"Hey, you know… Anyone else here's been wondering about what was in those transports that got attacked?" Aldo asks shortly after the comms screen closes. "It can't be happening without a reason."
"Any ships that go through the Gateway are only authorized by Joint Initiative officials, so the only thing we know is that they have clearance and are infiltrated in either of our sides…" Alex responds. "…As for what they want, no idea what they're after, honestly… The ships only had construction supplies and other provisions. As for weapons those transports only carry basic equipment, supplies such as electronics and relatively small Dust quantities, and the escorts are not exactly heavy battleships."
"Captain, the patrols have cleared the way. Should we continue our course?" AIDA asks to James.
"Trace course to the nearest Initiative outpost for resupply and to discharge our warp drive. We'll decide what to do next once we get there." James responds.
Alex inputs the commands onto the helm station, the whirring of the warp drive starting up soon after, with the ship departing with a blast into warp speed away from the checkpoint.
A few hours of travel pass before the CCV Endurance arrives at the Initiative outpost.
A smaller station than Corneria Spacedock, it harbored a couple of minor starships, possibly other Joint Initiative-affiliated scouts. This seemed to be a medium resupply and repair station: A few small vehicles fly over across station sections with materials containers and repair parts. Among drones, small cargo transports and the occasional maintenance craft, the CCV Endurance approaches the station, closing onto the docking bay and connecting to the space outpost.
The team walks out of the decontamination chamber into the station. It is surprisingly more silent than one would expect. Most of the work seems automated in the station with relatively few personnel, making for a less populated series of hallways and rooms.
The Lylatian group walks past a hallway into the station's communications room linked to the other side of the gateway. The advanced holoprojectors in the chamber were inactive at the time, lighting up to life along the numerous holopanels as James and the others step in.
"Welcome to outpost GWAlpha Resupply Outpost Conference Room, Captain McCloud. Please state your business." A computerized voice inquiries.
"Open a communications link with Commander Markus Ford of the Joint Initiative in Lylat, Captain James McCloud is requesting further instructions for our mission." James replies.
"…Alright, Looks like the Imperial Navy is really living up to its reputation with tight border security."
After the current situation is explained by James to Ford in the holocall, Ford replies, then sending some more mission data to the team.
"Hopefully, no more issues like this get in the way. Now, Captain McCloud, your current route will take place across a few of the disappearance sites, where hopefully there is still some clue about what was going on at the time of the attack." Commander Ford issues the next step of the task. "While I'd appreciate if these attackers were incapacitated or eliminated, it'd be best if the first public announcement about Lylatians on this galaxy is from a diplomatic reception than as participant in a conflict."
"Hm, I understand. We'll try resorting to lethal force only if it's a critical need." James says in response. "What's our next step from here?"
"You'll be headed to a meeting of diplomats on planet Viacherus III. That's in independent, diplomatically neutral territory, but with former United Empire ties, located just near the border of the United Empire's inner rim worlds." Ford informs, putting up a hologram displaying info on the planet during the call. "This meeting will mostly concern matters of contested territory of a few developing factions and minor political tensions within the United Empire and other factions. We will arrange the opportunity for a formal first contact on behalf of the Joint Initiative and establish several official channels before our actual formal introduction in Lylat is made. You'll also be accompanied in the meeting by a Joint Initiative representative; you'll meet him at the capital city of the planet, in a tower near the spaceport where the meeting will be held. After that, you may visit the attack sites on your way back, hopefully something new can be found."
"Will do, Commander. I'll contact again once we've taken part on the meeting." James responds. "While at that, I—"
James is interrupted mid-sentence by a callout.
"Captain James McCloud, your presence is requested at storage area 22."
"Storage area? Huh… I suppose that'll be it for this meeting, Commander. As I said, we'll be in contact again once the meeting has taken place. James out." He ends the holocall, turning his head to face the others. "You guys can go ahead and get back to the ship. I'll meet you over there."
James parts his way from the rest of the team after leaving the conference room, walking down into an elevator as the others head back to the docking area.
The elevator doors open to reveal an eerily quiet and poorly lit storage room. James walks in looking into the surroundings, and yet no one is to be seen.
"Hello? Did anyone need me here?" James says out loud, his voice echoing past the various crates and containers.
No response is heard but some shuffling noises on the far side of the room ahead. James looks around once more, and reaches for his sidearm.
Before he is able to do anything, James is cut as something knocks his weapon away, holding a tight grip on his arms.
"Ah dammit, what the hell!?" James exclaims, struggling to break free.
James struggles off, shoving the aggressor away with his arms and sprinting towards his weapon. The figure quickly gets up and swiftly takes down James with a hit, pinning him down with a leg and pulling a handgun out, pointing it at James.
"That's far enough. And this will turn out better for the both of us if you stay right where you are." A female voice is heard from the figure wearing a light armor suit, with the upper face concealed by a face guard.
Even in the poor lighting, James can make sense from a few traits of the aggressor. The weapon seemed to be fit for obtaining silent kills; a submachinegun fitted with a suppressor. At the time, it was set to single shots. Her suit was colored gray with jet black trim, bearing a white, orange and black patterned shield emblem at her right shoulder, while her tail had light brown fur. The face, however, was hidden behind a dark iridescent face guard, with a blue tint from the visor's lights at her muzzle, the only visible part of the face. Other clues about the identity of the attacker were the distinctively feminine voice, the slightly curvy appearance, and the shape of the face guard—a specific fit for Lylatian vulpines.
With the armor having no markings of any sort sans a few lights at sides of the visor, and their ability to quickly disarm a seasoned combatant, whoever this person was, their gear and skills were clearly saying this was either an infiltrator, an or assassin.
"There's something I need to let you know. You can either hear me out the easy way, or I can make you listen. But I can't be careless and leave you armed."
"Agh!.. Alright, alright! I'll listen, just get off me!" James exclaims, being pressed against the floor.
She steps back from the James, keeping him at gunpoint and securing James' weapon a couple steps away.
"Right… What is it you have to tell me?" James gets back on his feet, hands up in yield.
"There are people who might want to kill you, Mr. McCloud. Dangerous people." She answers.
"Hah. That one makes a long list…" James quips in a facetious tone.
"I'd take this matter more seriously if I were you. I'm not here to kill you, but I'm really sure you won't be the only one at risk if they find out about me telling you this." She states. "I don't know whether you realized this or not, but all the events going on right now are part of one big scheme, James. And once you're in, you better be prepared for repercussions once it all goes public."
"Alright, I'm listening. So what's the story?" James replies.
"From all that it seems like, you may not have somewhere safe to go back to. Not in Corneria, not in Lylat, not even in the Joint Initiative. I'm sure you've been informed by your clients that there have been reported attacks around this side of the Gateway. These attacks were Lylatian work."
"Wait, how is Lylat behind these attacks? Who? Why are they doing this?" James' ears perk up in attention.
"They're a secret scientific-military organization, called 'Schermer', only the highest rank and file get access or even know about its existence. We used to have this organization and its special operations forces as a first and last line of defense against threats that required… discretion." She continues. "The goal of our organization was to create an effort to combat and reverse-engineer alien threats after the Aparoid conflict, still operating under Lylatian law, but during the exploration efforts… Some shifts between the people who held the power caused all of our intentions, directives and orders to become… a lot different from what it originally was."
"…So your people have gone rogue, and they're now attacking others across the gateway region." James says in realization.
"Worse—officially, we're still operating under the same directives, so we have full access to anything we need in Lylat. But I'm starting to see that I… my superiors have motives of questionable nature, to say the least. They're no longer what they were in the beginning of our organization. And I'm willing to atone for taking a place in this scheme. I don't want to be part of this anymore." The woman says, shaking her head. "At first, we had ties with the Joint Initiative, but as I said, things took turns for the worst, and I think we still have some infiltrated members there, which may explain how we still have access to the Gateway."
"Schermer forces have been fighting this little war in the shadows for a while now. First it was just about capturing small ships and making them 'disappear' to later study them in detail. Then their security tightened, and now the people of this galaxy know about our activity, but didn't pinpoint Lylat as the perpetrators—yet." She continues.
"I don't think there's more I could tell you with conclusive evidence to support it, but I saw the things they're starting to do… Some of those outsiders from this galaxy and from the Joint Initiative may be suspicious, dangerous even, but now… Even in Lylat, Mr. McCloud, be careful with who you trust. Especially in Corneria." The woman continues.
"So tell me why should I trust you?" James inquiries.
The vixen stays silent for a moment, and looks downwards, away from James' face as if in shame, then holsters her SMG, giving James' handgun back to him.
"…I'm sorry. I didn't want all this to be cloak and dagger, but I had no other choice. I need to be on the edge with everything that's been going on recently, and there's too much at stake here. You're a famous figure in Lylat." The agent says, gesturing with her right hand at James. "A legendary fighter pilot and soldier who's given a paragon for all other private forces, having risen from a small PMC team into a position of privileged reputation. Your actions were even endorsed by the official military and you were given an entirely upgraded ship and a full crew out of how much they trust you."
"Being involved with the Joint Initiative makes you a key piece in here to give good first impressions of both sides, but remember… The news can be easily manipulated, and the Schermer have ways to make people believe." She finishes.
"I see… I think I understand what you're saying." He replies, grabbing his weapon back and holstering it as well. "I'll keep this in mind and stay alert—both here and in Lylat. But it's still not a lot to go on. Are you sure that's all you can tell me?"
"There's one more thing… I've had some… privileged access to their planned goals, and apparently their leaders' intentions involve trying to sway you and your team to their side, James." She says. "They believe you'd make an immense influence asset, and they may try convincing you to act as moles within the Joint Initiative's ranks sometime in the future. I'm sure you'll know when one of their representatives approaches you."
"But why didn't you tell this to the Initiative? Couldn't you spy for their side instead?" James asks.
"No, I couldn't. They probably wouldn't listen to me and think that I'll feed them false info and red herrings, considering Schermer history." She replies. "I don't know if it'll improve things a lot if they hear it through you, but that's what I can do for now, and you're the best shot I have at it. I'd like you to relay this info at a later time, however."
"I wish I could say more. I'll trust that you'll keep discretion about this for the moment— I can't have this go public without any solid evidence to shut down all of this shady operation and, well… set things right." She says, stepping back from James. "I need to get going now, but I'll come back to you with more information if I can. I know where you're headed from here, so we'll meet again soon."
"Wait, before you go—why exactly are you doing this? Why tell about this to me?" James asks.
"…I'm doing this because things changed. It's not about defending anyone back in Lylat anymore. It's a power play for people who want to have absolution over our little corner of the universe. We used to put the needs of our people as a priority before. We used to have a cause, but now, we're fighting for things that I'm not sure if we all really believe in." She responds.
"…And I'm telling all this to you because… Because I trust you, James."
"Can I at least know a name? Anything I can call you?" James asks, stepping towards the woman.
"…Call me Mirage. We'll meet again." She says, before activating an optical camouflage in her stealth suit, cloaking herself and leaving invisible.
Startled at the encounter and concerned about the continuously thicker web of conspiracy forming around the recent events, James takes a last look at the surroundings and leaves as he parted ways with the agent; the so-called 'Mirage'.