Immortal Star Fox
Chapter XXVIII
ONE YEAR LATER
"In the six months of its operation, the Cornerian Orbital Gate has now granted outsider access to the Lylat System." The dalmatian on the screen was reporting. "The gate was mostly used as the primary transport for the CDF, but the Orbital Committee will now allow non-pilots and tourists to use the gate."
"Right at the camera, sir." The clerk behind the desk motioned to look at the camera.
"Beryllium seems to be a hot topic as the element has been found abundantly on Macbeth." The dalmatian moved on to the next story. "The Cornerian Precious Metals' president, Grippy Toad, has said the element will be used safely, as it has been known to present a toxic inhalation during manufacture of products."
"3. 2. 1." The clerk counted down.
Fox groaned as the light flashed for a split and saw sparks under his eyelids. He rubbed his eyes and the flash was gone. Fox shook his head and went to the desk. The feline was finalizing Fox's new license. Just a year ago, everything was flipped upside down for Fox and his team. Being grounded meant that the CDF had to bump up security around Lylat.
The production of the Cornerian Orbital Gate meant that ship could reach their destination in a matter of minutes, and after the six months of construction, it was ready for use. Fox could still see the many ships leaving Corneria's orbit with chunks of metal. It was wishful thinking that he could have been the first one to use the gate, but then the argument with Pepper happened.
Fox still thinks about that time a year ago. He stood up for Falco, with Slippy and Peppy following. They were left with just themselves in that span. Of course, the check did come in the P.O. box, like Fox requested. He was able to pay off some of the Great Fox's loan, with a little change for the rest of the crew.
From there, they assimilated into their normal lives. Slippy went to work with his father, Beltino, and uncle, Grippy, on the gate. Peppy was able to spend some time with his wife, Vivian, and daughter, Lucy. Falco and Katt were able to make amends and started to see each other, once Katt finished with her "vacation". And then Fox.
Fox didn't have much to do during his time being grounded. He did help out a little with Slippy on the construction of the Orbital Gate. But other than hanging out with his team on occasions, Fox would return back to his family home and count the days until he could be back in the skies.
He would keep looking at his wrist. The bracelet that was given to him by a very special someone. It was sort of a mark that was left by her. Fox would look fondly at it and wondered if she was waiting. He didn't want to leave her waiting like this.
He was hoping that she didn't forget him.
The printer popped out a small rectangle card and the feline stamped it for approval. "Here you are, Mr. McCloud."
Fox took the card and looked at the new picture of him. It was better than the first time he got one, but he wasn't going to spend thirty credits for a retake. Fox put the card in his new jacket. One that was snug than his previous one, but fit him perfectly and had a sleeker design. His teammates were jealous of the new design. Fox gave his thanks to the feline and went to his teammates watching the news.
"How much time did you end up working on that thing again?" Falco asked.
"It was constant day and night working. I only got five hours of sleep one week." Slippy answered. "Between us, my dad and uncle built a secret room in one of the hangars. They said we're free to use it as we please."
"Well, ain't that nice of the old toads." Falco remarked.
Peppy was still listening to the news. It was mostly about local stuff in Corneria City, and some recent interviews from people on their thoughts of Star Fox. Most were positive, with of course, some negative responses, but most had some comments directed to Fox.
Fox made his presence known by clearing his throat. The three turned to him and Fox looked at all of them. "We ready, guys?"
The three nodded and they walked with Fox out of the Department of Transportation that was in the CDF Tower. Today was when Falco's suspension ended. General Pepper sent out a formal letter to Star Fox a few days from when they last saw him. A formal press release was sent out from the CDF to local media and Star Fox had to create their own to respond.
After the barrage of ambushes after the release and countless questions from everyone everywhere they went, Fox and team we're quaint in waiting out the suspension for the next couple of months. Fox did get bored during these times and went out during the night to get himself out more.
He would stop by local bars and just try to have normal conversations with the other patrons. But then the topics turned personal for him and he'd get himself out of there quickly. He'd return home and just lie in bed, and kept thinking that he'd wish that someone else was with him.
The team walked out of the CDF. Fox did talk to Pepper a couple of times after their argument. Pepper described the change in officials that happened and were suspected of. Fox just let the general be and let him do his job. The CDF's shake up was major news over the next couple of months.
Star Fox made their way to the Great Fox. The mothership was parked in one of the hangars at the CDF. General Pepper made sure their ship and Arwings would be housed there. It would be up to the team to maintain it themselves. It didn't matter since ROB would do all that.
The team walked across the many runways that the CDF had and made it to the main hangar. Most of the soldiers and officers were not to kind that the Great Fox was to be housed there, but General Pepper made sure they stayed in check. The Great Fox was just as Fox left it. A few days ago, Fox ordered some new parts and had someone give the interior a semi-makeover, mostly in the den and deck areas.
Fox entered the Great Fox and could smell the new paint job that was flowing through the ship. It was still strong, but most of it was dry. The team went to their respective Arwings and looked at some of the new features that Space Dynamics gave them, now that the Arwings were finally theirs after months of negotiations.
The Arwings got a sleeker interior and updated consoles. The outside gained new holds for nova bombs and thrusters to ensure they'd get to their destination in a fast and timely manner. Slippy was hopping around like a little kid after seeing the improved Arwings. Just waiting for one of his friends to trash it so he could fix it.
Fox walked into the elevator and to the deck. The cabin took him up and Fox walked down the hallway to the den. The paint had dried, but was still invading his nostrils with its smell. It wasn't a new color, just the same white as the old coat was starting to fade. A new table was added with chairs and sofas were added to give the den a modern look.
Fox walked out and to the deck. It was clean and smelled of lemon. The gold robot that he ordered to watch the ship was at the holodesk, checking any current events in Lylat. The robot turned to Fox and scanned him.
"Welcome back, Captain Fox." ROB announced with not much ceremony.
"Yeah, it is nice to be back." Fox acknowledged the golden robot.
Fox looked around at the tidy deck. ROB was told by Fox to make sure that everything was spruced up by the time they returned, and it looks like the robot kept true to his word. The rest of the team came in and marveled at the sight and smell of the deck. The old chairs were replaced with sturdier, but comfortable ones, Fox's chair got a bit more attention.
"Would you like me to ring to CDF traffic to let us take off?" ROB asked.
Fox motioned for his team to come to the holodesk and they all followed. Fox stood next to ROB and the others found their usual spots. Fox pulled up the map of Lylat and could see that there wasn't any disturbances anywhere. Maybe they could pick up small transport jobs on Macbeth since the Cornerian Precious Minerals were working there.
"Are we ready for takeoff?" Fox looked to his team.
They all knew the answer and simply gave a nod. Fox nodded back and turned to ROB.
"Call it in."
ROB notified the CDF traffic that they were ready for takeoff. The Great Fox was taxied out by a pushback. The team went to their respective chairs and prepared for launch. It took a few minutes, but the CDF traffic gave them clearance for takeoff. The pushback quickly drove off the tarmac and the Great Fox was the only ship on there. The engines began to turn on and ROB gave off a few diagnoses of the ship. Once that was done, ROB told Fox that he had the green light.
"Let's go ROB." Fox said.
The Great Fox began to lift off the ground and hover for a while before moving forward. It started ascending and the nose began pointing to the sky. The blue sky that Fox dreamt of returning to.
The Great Fox began its quick ascend over Corneria. The past through the clouds and could see the blue sky becoming darker the higher they went. They broke through the final layers for Corneria's orbit and the Great Fox was submerged in the vacuum of space. A ping came on indicating that it was safe to walk around the Great Fox.
Out in the distance, Fox could see the Cornerian Orbital Gate. The station was spinning slowly and he could see many ships entering and exiting the gate. Fox looked behind him to the deck's closed door. He knew what he wanted to do, he wasn't sure how his team would react.
"Finally, off that damn planet." Falco groaned as he stretched.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Slippy said. "I had a great time."
"Working with your pop doesn't sound like a good time to me." Falco got up from his chair.
"Try it out. They're bright minded."
"No offense, but I can handle the smell you produce when you sweat, let alone when three of you are in the same room." Falco made a wafting motion.
"Falco." Peppy said with a stern voice.
Falco just rolled his eyes and approached Fox's chair. "Any word on some jobs?"
"We just got out. Let's just wait for them to come in." Peppy picked up a tablet and began to read a checklist on stuff to do in the Great Fox.
"What'd ya say, Fox?" Falco bumped him to get his attention.
Fox felt the bump but kept looking out to the orbital gate. He would blink occasionally, almost as if he was in a trance from the gate. Falco waved a wing in front of him. That got Fox to shake his head and look at the avian.
"You okay?" Falco questioned.
"Uh, yeah, just… um." Fox looked forward and the deck went silent. "I-I was hoping I could go somewhere else."
The Great Fox's hum was the only sound in the deck. Fox was iffy on how his team was going to react to this bomb, but it wasn't their words that got Fox's attention, but their faces. Falco just stared, nothing bad, he just stared. Slippy had his head tilted with a small smile. Peppy scratched his chin with eyes fully knowing what Fox was going to say.
"You wanna go see her?" Falco leaned in.
Fox didn't turn to him. His face was starting to get a little hot. He was shaking his leg.
"You still have a promise, Fox." Peppy reminded, even though Fox knew it himself. "You should probably go and fulfil it."
Fox's face began to grow more red. He took a deep breath and began to stand from his chair. He looked back to Peppy and let out a small huff and a small smirk came across the old hare. He went back to the tablet.
"I'll assume you want to go alone," Falco said, "but we're keeping the Great Fox."
"Wasn't planning on taking it. Kinda excited to try the orbital gate, however." Fox said as he started to walk to the door. He stopped and turned back to his teammates. They each knew what Fox needed to do, they didn't hold it against him.
"Thanks guys." Fox said.
"Just go to her already." Falco said in a demand.
Fox didn't waste time after that and walked out of the deck and to the hangar. It took him a few minutes to get everything together and get the Arwing ready. He notified ROB that he was ready for takeoff and the Arwing was catapulted out of the Great Fox and Fox piloted the Arwing to the orbital gate.
The massive gateway spun slowly and Fox tapped into the orbital gate's comms. A female robotic voice came in.
"Welcome to the Cornerian Orbital Gate. Please input your coordinates on your console." Fox did just that, getting the coordinates of Sauria from the deck's holodesk. The robot took a few moments to get the coordinates and before responding. "Coordinates received. Destination of Sauria is confirmed. Your launching station will be N-101."
Fox circled the orbital gate until he found N-101. He saw the platform adjusting to Sauria's location. He positioned the Arwing inside the platform and they started to spin when he got close. The platforms spun faster as the Arwing was resting inside the station.
Fox felt the vibration of the platforms around him and everything around him was starting to get bright. Again, the female voice came to make another announcement.
"Thank you for choosing Cornerian Orbital Gate. Takeoff to Sauria will be in ten seconds. Estimated time will be two minutes."
Fox closed his eyes for the ten seconds and could hear a loud ringing and the bright light dimmed as Fox felt the Arwing being propelled and himself being thrown back into his chair. Fox didn't feel anything after being thrown back. He opened his eyes and saw all the stars flying past him. Fox marveled at the rate he was going and was surprised that he was getting there faster than the Great Fox did.
For the entire two minutes, Fox just looked around and was at awe at the speed he was going and he didn't feel any of it. Eventually, the Arwing began to shake and Fox could see a blue dot approaching fast. He grabbed his flight stick as the Arwing was slowing down. The shakes were indicating the final approach to Sauria and the Arwing slowed down as the ship let out a green ball of energy.
Fox looked down at the blue-green planet and stared at it. It was a whole year since he last stepped foot on the planet. He didn't waste anymore time and pointed the Arwing down to the planet. He flew into the orbit of Sauria and the nosecone had small flames manifesting. The blue sky came into view as Fox flew above the clouds.
Fox deseeded further and could see in between open areas of the clouds. It was just like coming to Sauria the first time. He looked around for anything new, but everything seemed to be in order. The last stretch of the flight, Fox could see something hazy in the distance. He descended lower and could faintly see a building. Fox recognized it as the temple.
Fox flew over and pulled back to see the temple's current status. Fox decided it was within himself to try and pay respect to everyone who gave their lives to protect the temple. He piloted the Arwing down and felt the landing gears rest on the planet's surface. He decided to let his teammates know his status. So he sent them a message.
"Just an update, I've landed back on Sauria. Nothing really has changed. I'll just leave it at that. See you guys later." Fox sent the message and looked at the temple in front of him.
The temple was still damaged. The archway leading inside was still demolished and the stained glass that was above the archway was gone and some shards hanging on. Fox walked up the steps and looked inside. Most of the damage was on the inside. Rocks were littered everywhere, and some walls had fallen. The dome on top was broken and the spire was inside the temple.
Fox just kept looking around and saw Corneria's fingerprints all over it. Damage control did their best to clean up the area and make sure that the area surrounding was up to the EarthWalkers' liking, or that's what General Pepper said.
Fox was so caught up that he didn't hear something sneak up behind him. Fox scratched his head before he heard a booming voice echo around him.
"Fox? It's really you!"
Fox jumped in the air and let out a small scream as he quickly turned around and had his hand on his holster. He breathed heavily as he got to see who it was that gave him a scare.
"Tricky?" He removed his hand from the holster.
Fox looked over the dinosaur as it is apparent that he has grown in the year that has passed. The last time Fox saw him, he was at his knees. Now, the dinosaur was at his waist, but he still had the childlike manor.
"Yes. It is me." Tricky said.
Fox looked down at his wristcomm and saw that he didn't have the translator was on. He looked back at Tricky and the dinosaur just had that child smile that never went away.
"Are you… speaking Cornerian?" Fox had a puzzled look.
"Yes. But not good." Tricky said. "My dad been teaching."
"Well, that's good." Fox walked next to Tricky and Tricky's tail was wagging furiously. "How has everyone been?"
"Uh…" Tricky took another second to gather words. "Mother and father are okay. They teach me a lot."
"That's really great, Tricky." Fox sounded happy that Tricky was finally learning Cornerian. "How long have you been learning?"
"Uh… few mouths." Tricky said.
"Mouths?" Fox questioned. "I think you mean months."
Tricky tilted his head and his eyes grew. "Yes. Months! I still learning."
"Parents have been teaching me, more of father since mother is a little sick." Tricky's mood dipped a little. "She doing better now."
"Father has been giving me lessons during the days. But Krystal has also help me."
Fox's mouth went dry when Tricky said that name. Now his nervousness started to show as he tried to get more information on the vixen.
"K-Krystal has been helping you?" Fox asked.
"She did. Until she left." Tricky answered.
Fox's heart immediately sunk.
"L-Left? What do you mean?" Fox looked like he was shaking.
"Yeah. She left a few mouths ago." Tricky was still wagging his tail, however.
"D-Do you know where she went?" Fox asked timidly.
"Yeah. She moved up into the mountains."
Fox let out a sigh of relief and his body stopped shaking. He put a hand on Tricky in an attempt to get himself standing upright. Tricky didn't know what was going on, so he let Fox stay there until he composed himself.
"Can you take me to her?" Fox looked at Tricky. "I need to tell her something."
"Yes," Tricky screamed with enthusiasm. "Follow me!"
Tricky led Fox out of the temple and down the familiar trail. Fox looked around at the trees that seemed to have grown in the past year. He felt smaller and Tricky's growth spurt didn't help either. When they reached Walled City, Fox saw the patches of grass that were still growing from Corneria's base.
Fox saw two mountain peaks, the one to the left was the one to Moon Mountain, passed where the SharpClaw lived, but Tricky had his sights on the one behind Walled City.
"She up there." Tricky pointed to the mountain. "It may take a few hour."
"You don't need to tell me that. You all set?" Fox gave Tricky a pat.
Tricky just wagged his tail as Fox already knew the answer. Fox looked at the mountain and wondered why Krystal would move out of the EarthWalker's palace. He decided to ask Tricky as they began their small journey.
"Why did she leave Walled City?"
Tricky led the way and answered Fox's question with his broken Cornerian.
"She said needed spaces. Places to meditate and be at peace." Tricky gave a small pause, trying to remember where the path was. "She still come to visit."
Tricky walked around Walled City down another path that Fox hadn't been down. It led to a banking river, and Fox could feel the cool air flowing down. He shivered as he zipped up his jacket halfway and brought down the sleeves to down his arms.
The trail followed the base of the mountain before it started to climb up the side. Tricky explained how the trail can become narrow near the top. Fox still wasn't sure how Krystal could scale the mountain on a possible daily basis.
The higher they went, the colder it began. The wind also didn't help with the chill. Fox could see his breath in front of him, also his breathing became harder the altitude kept climbing. Fox saw Tricky doing his best on staying near the path. The fall down would be catastrophic for either of them.
Fox looked at his wristcomm and could see that they had been climbing for about an hour. Fox would think it better to pilot his Arwing the next time he made another visit. The trail started to get wider as the made it to the final stretch. Fox didn't need to scoot along the side. He was still wondering how Tricky was able to scale the mountain given his size.
Tricky then stopped as they reached near the top of the mountain. The wind was blowing steadily, but Fox felt it pelting his face. He had to cover his eyes as they began to water from the chill. He could see Tricky peeking around the corner. Fox looked up and saw a sort archway that was carved into the mountain. Fox kept looking up and could see there was still a way up to the peak.
Tricky motioned for Fox to go ahead of him. Fox carefully slid by Tricky and did his best to not look down the mountain. Once he got past Tricky, Fox slowly peeked in. His heart started to beat faster and more smoke came from his breath.
He saw the blue vixen he had been thinking about for the last year. Fox was lost at her sight, seeing this is the first time in a year he has seen her. She had his back to him, legs crossed, and hands placed on the floor. There were candles around her and it sounded like she was humming something. Fox came to the conclusion that she was meditating.
He didn't want to disturb her during her time and looked back at Tricky. The dinosaur saw the look on Fox's face and whispered to him.
"Why not go in?" Tricky raised a brown.
"She looks busy. I don't want to disturb her." Fox whispered back.
Tricky's face went from smiling to a pout. It then lit up when the dinosaur had an idea brewing. His smile returned as his idea started to go into motion. "Wait."
It was all Tricky said before he yelled at the top of his lung. "Krystal!"
Fox tried to cover the dinosaur's mouth before the words left, but he was too late. Fox looked back to see if she was coming, but when he looked in, she wasn't moving. Tricky then squeezed his way past Fox and into Krystal's home. The happy EarthWalker walked next to Krystal.
Tricky saw that she had her eyes closed and her humming was still present. However, when she felt Tricky's presence, she tried to tune him out and focus on her meditation. Tricky called out for Krystal, but she held her eyes tighter and focused more. When Tricky called her for the third time, she finally opened her eyes and looked at the prince.
"Tricky. You better have a good reason to interrupt me." Krystal said with a disgruntled voice.
"Hi Krystal." He said ignoring her tone. "I do have reason for interrupting you." At least he was honest. "I have surprise for you."
Krystal just gave a small sigh and decided to get this over with. As much as she liked the dinosaur, now that he was near her waist, some of the childish things he used to do no longer had that child spark to them. He was going to learn sooner from his father about the etiquette for royal living.
"Don't go nowhere." Tricky added.
"You're blocking my only exit." Krystal mumbled under her breath while crossing her arms.
Tricky walked out of Krystal's home and stood near the trail where Fox was. The tod just stared at Tricky in disbelief at what he did.
"Why'd you do that?" Fox had to lower his voice.
"Why not? You wanted to see her. She waiting." Tricky walked around Fox and there was nothing blocking his path.
Fox realized where he was now. He tried to take deep breaths to compose himself, although he was sure it'd pick up again. He started to shake again and made an attempt to walk, but hesitated. He palms began to produce a cold sweat, making them even colder.
"Tricky. I'm not waiting any longer." Krystal's voice echoed.
Fox was trying to find the courage to enter, but he wasn't making it easy. Now the pessimist thoughts came in. What if she actually forgot who he was? What if she moved on and just accepted the fact that he wasn't coming back? It kept building up to the point that Tricky rolled his eyes and headbutted Fox in his back. Fox fell forward and grunted as picked himself up.
Krystal was looking away, but when she heard a thud, she reverted her attention to the sound. Her face went from annoyed to full shock at what she was seeing. Her arms fell slowly and she sued them to cover her mouth as it was opening wide.
Fox propped himself with his elbows and cast a glare at Tricky. "Really?"
The dinosaur simply had that kid-smile on his face. Fox just shook his head and finally turned his head inside Krystal's home. He saw the vixen simply standing in all her radiant. It threw him off seeing her for the first time in a year. His heart started to beat faster and the vixen's was doing the same.
Fox began to pick himself up and was finally facing Krystal. They both didn't say anything and Krystal lowered her hands from her maw. Her eyes didn't blink, as she thought it was either an illusion or if she blinked, he'd be gone. Her eyes were watering as another gust of wind breezed into her home. Only then did she blink. She quickly opened them and saw that he was still there.
"Fox?" She whispered.
"Krystal." He whispered back.
They went silent again. Tricky looked at both of them and realized the tension that was between them. He figured something was floating in the air, so he left without ceremony. Fox did give Tricky a small wave to show his thanks. Fox cleared his throat to get the knot that was tying.
"Hey," he shyly said.
"Hi." Krystal whispered again.
Fox looked around her new home. A small area with minimal belongings. Her staff was leaning one of the corners. Her bed did look plush looking, but was only big enough for one person. Fox started to walk inside her home and kept looking around.
"So, um… you got a-a nice place." Fox said.
"Oh, yeah. It's just a small area and…" Krystal rubbed her arm, also walking closer.
Fox looked her over and was taken back at the jacket she was wearing. The white khaki jacket that Fox had lent her last year. He walked closer and Krystal was matching his pace. Fox saw there were some mud stains on the bottom end of the jacket.
"I see you still got… that on." Fox pointed at his old jacket.
"Oh, yeah. I've… it kept me warm up here, so yeah." She rubbed her arm more.
The gap between them closed and soon they were standing in front of each other. Krystal let her arm reach to touch Fox's arm. Fox's heart was beating fast as he felt Krystal's touch. He felt her fingers running through his fur; it gave him goosebumps.
Krystal looked up and stared longingly at those eyes that captivated her when they were together. How she loved to look at them and Krystal could feel that it was the same feeling from Fox. She ran her fingers up his arm and Fox picked up his hand and placed it gently on her waist. Krystal ran her hand up her arm and around his shoulder.
Fox brought Krystal closer to him and placed his other hand on her waist. Both didn't break their gazes and Fox started to move his head forward. Krystal saw this and tiptoed to get closer to Fox's face. He tilted his head and stopped when their noses touched. Fox pushed his hips against hers as he closed the small gap.
Krystal took in a sharp inhale as she felt Fox's lips on hers. Krystal's fur stood up on her neck and she closed her eyes. Fox felt Krystal complying with him, so he began to speed up, letting a whole year of pent up emotion come out. Krystal could feel this and the only way to answer was to match his pace.
Fox ran his tongue across Krystal's teeth, letting her know that he wanted more. She obliged and let Fox enter her mouth. She felt Fox flick her tongue with his and she returned the gesture. Both foxes were breathing heavily as their tongues wrestled to get the upper hand. Krystal wrapped her arms around Fox's neck and played with the white strand of hair that split his head.
Finally, after what seemed liked hours, Fox pulled back from Krystal and placed his forehead against hers. She felt Fox's head against hers and she rubbed it against his, their muzzles were inches from each other.
"Fox," her voice was breaking. "You came back." She rubbed her muzzle under his chin.
"I made a promise." He hugged her tightly. "I never go back on it."
Krystal felt the strength of being in his arms. She hugged him back and put her nose against his neck, getting a small sniff of his scent. She exhaled shakily as she remembered Fox's smell. She pulled back and stared at him.
"What happened?" She wanted to know what she missed during this past year.
"Something out of my control," he sighed. "But, then I took control and well…"
Krystal guided Fox to her bed and they both sat down as Fox began explaining that happened. How he killed Andross and saved Lylat, again. The argument with Pepper and how he stood up for his teammate. The suspension of Falco and how he protested by being grounded with him for a year. After that, Fox didn't have much to say other than doing helping build the Cornerian Orbital Gate.
Krystal leaned her head against his shoulder as she listened to Fox's story. She looked at his wrist and saw the bracelet that she made for him. He still had it on all this time. She grabbed his bicep on the arms she was leaning against and held it. Fox instinctively flexed at that. He ended his story by leaning his head against hers.
"Did you ever think about me?" Krystal had a red forming on her.
"Would it be creepy if I said that I did most of the time?" Fox shyly admitted. "It's because of this." He flashed the bracelet to her.
"Don't worry. I thought about you a lot, as well." Krystal admitted. "It's because of this." She flapped his old jacket.
Fox chuckled with a blush rapidly forming. "Guess we couldn't get off each other's mind."
She responded to his comment by giving him a small kiss on the cheek. "I guess not."
"What about you. What have you been doing? And why are you out here?" Fox looked down at her.
A series of events that Krystal had some explaining to do. She was willing to explain everything to him, and it looked like he was willing to listen. She said how after the temple's destruction, she tried to keep the EarthWalkers calm during the cleanup. After a few months, Krystal found that she needed time to herself. She still made visits to the palace every week, and the king made it apparent that she was always welcome to return.
Eventually, she succumbed to her new home in the mountain area let her mind by a peace whenever she was up here. That's all she kept repeating, peace. It's what she wanted, and with Fox telling her that he rid the system of the one being that stopped her from having it, she felt relief and calm go through her.
"I've enjoyed being up here. The calm aura of the mountains have really settled me down." Krystal leaned forward, her chin resting in her hands and elbows on her knees. Fox also leaned forward.
He bumped shoulders with hers and she looked back at him with a smirk. She leaned into him and Fox wrapped an arm around her. He started to rub her arm and Krystal felt the warmth flowing through her arm. Krystal let out a long sigh and looked up at Fox.
"So, what are you going to do now?" She batted her eyes at him.
"I-I'm not sure." Fox rubbed his neck. "Everything's been silent, not even Star Wolf has done something in our absence. So, we're probably going to be waiting a while for anything to come in."
Krystal leaned more into Fox and both of them went silent. Krystal didn't mind the silence, she used to feel Fox's mind. His mind was blank. She could see his eyes were closing slowly and his breathing was getting rhythmic. The silence was putting him to sleep.
"Fox, are you okay?" Krystal asked.
"Yeah," Fox cleared his throat and did a nervous chuckle. "I'm fine." He looked at Krystal and she was biting her lip.
Krystal could sense that Fox wanted to ask her something, but given that he would probably stammer every word. Krystal decided to tell him what he was wanting to ask, and she had a small feeling he would be blushing like a madman.
"Fox," she stared directly in his eyes. "I want you to stay for the night."
Fox almost fell off the bed at Krystal's request. It made him think if she was reading his mind, not that she wasn't doing it already. Fox's face went full red.
"K-Krystal, I-I…" He didn't get the sentence out as Krystal put a finger on his mouth.
"I'm not asking you, Fox. I want you to stay. Please." Krystal had a pleading look.
Fox looked at Krystal's gaze, she almost had a puppy look starting to form. Fox's heart was beating fast, but he composed himself as he realized that she wanted him to stay. He didn't have the heart to deny her this request, even thought he wanted to ask it deep down.
"Okay." He placed a hand on her cheek. "I'll stay."
At that, the restraint from Krystal broke and she leaned into Fox and practically smashed her lips against his. Fox's eyes went wide, but he returned the kiss with much intensity. Their kiss turned into quick, short ones as they became more intense with each other. She took off his jacket and placed it on the side of her bed.
Krystal placed her hands on Fox's pects and lightly pushed him on her bed. Fox didn't put up a fight and tensed at Krystal's hands on his chest. Krystal glided her hands down his body and reached the end of Fox's shirt. She was curious and slipped her hands under his shirt. Fox felt her fingers on his fur and he started to shake a little.
She grabbed the bottom of his shirt and was slowly picking it up as she went back up his body. Fox could feel the cold air hitting his fur. Fox placed his hands on her hips squeezed them, Krystal let out a small giggle as she felt his fingers roaming up her back. Krystal was able to get Fox's shirt to his arms and it was here where Fox remembered something he had.
He reluctantly broke from her. "Krystal, wait."
It didn't matter as she pulled Fox's shirt over him. She threw it to the ground and glided her hands down his chest. There, she saw what Fox was trying to warn her.
She saw over Fox's left pect a black scar. It was about the size of her fist and it had strands coming out of the scar. She looked down more and saw another scar that crossed his stomach. It was the same black color and small strands coming out of it.
"I should have warned you about those." Fox tried to avoid looking at her.
Krystal traced the scar on his pect and Fox shivered at it. She was so mesmerized by it. How did Fox get such permanent marking like this on him? She looked down at the other scar and placed her hand there and started tracing it. Fox felt a tickling sensation and let out a shaky chuckle. Krystal looked up at him.
"Fox, how did you get these?" She was very curious.
"It's difficult to explain." Fox held himself up on his elbows.
Krystal tilted her head and Fox couldn't hold back an awe at the sight of it. Krystal let out a smile and gave Fox another kiss. She then pushed him down with force and Fox eyes went wide.
"Krystal. I-I don't know if we should…" Fox stopped when her face went upset.
"Then what about that one time we were at each other's touch." She pinned his arms down. "I waited a year for you and you're going to deny me this one night?"
"Because I don't want it to just be one night."
Krystal's face went blank when he said that. "What?"
Fox began to sit up and was eye to eye with Krystal. "Well, I just don't want things between us to be just… this."
Krystal tilted her head at what Fox was trying to say.
"I've told you before, I've only been in one other relationship. We were intimate, but we never got this far." Fox looked away with a blush forming. "I… I would like to start something like that again. With you."
Krystal started to breathe heavy again. She was finally processing what Fox was telling her. "Fox?"
"I want to feel that happiness of being with someone." He stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. "And I want that someone to be you."
"Then show me." Krystal demanded to know how much he was willing to commit to her.
The tod's restraints were finally broken and Fox wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into him as he laid on the bed, their hands roaming freely on the others body. Fox removed his old jacket from Krystal and she straddled herself on Fox's chest, helping him remove the jacket. She tossed it aside and let Fox's hands roam her back.
Krystal dragged her claws into Fox's chest and Fox let out a low growl. His hands reached the clasp of her chestplate. Fox looked up at her and she gave him a nod, letting him know that it was okay to continue. It took him no more than a couple of seconds to hear the clasp unhook. Krystal lifted her arms and Fox removed her chestplate and gently placed it on the ground.
Fox was mesmerized at the sight in front of him. Krystal knew that Fox was locked at her beauty, so what she did next almost made him pass out. She pushed Fox down and pressed her chest against his face. She pinned him by his shoulders and Fox was muffled under Krystal. She laughed as his voice tickled her fur, but let out a moan as she felt something wet being dragged across.
From there, everything else came off in a blur. Fox's pants and Krystal's loincloth were next. They each looked over the other's body and saw the one line of clothing that was separating them from their complete forms. Krystal could see Fox pulsing under his compression shorts.
Fox could see a few wet spots on Krystal's undergarments. He picked up his shaky hand and made one swipe on it. Krystal's thighs tensed and she let out a shaky breath, and it wasn't long before the last remnants of their clothes were finally off.
Another gust of wind came into the hollow that made Fox shiver. Krystal pushed herself against Fox and let her warmth envelop him. Fox could feel it come over him and he wrapped Krystal in his arms and she could feel his warmth flow through her. From there, they didn't separate from each other the entire night.
The waning night vanished as Solar was making its way up Sauria's horizon. The orange rays gave color to the sky, turning it from jet black to ocean blue. Unfortunately for Fox, he was facing directly at the rising star. He felt the heat beginning to pound his face and he start to move under the covers. He felt something holding onto him and he slowly opened his eyes.
It was, by far, the best sight he had ever woken up to.
Krystal was facing towards him, her head buried deep in his chest. She looked so peaceful sleeping with him. A much-needed sleep after the pent-up emotions they released last night. Fox smiled and gave Krystal a small kiss on her forehead. The covers were mostly over her and Fox's back was exposed, but he had Krystal's fur to keep him warm. Fox's eyes started to get heavy and he went back for a quick slumber.
Fox didn't close his eyes for more than twenty seconds until he felt a lick on his hand. It was outstretched and hanging off the bed, so it couldn't have been Krystal. He opened his eyes to see the playful face of Tricky. Fox screamed and pulled the covers over him and Krystal.
"Tricky!" His voice was not pleased to see the young EarthWalker. "What are you doing here?"
Krystal woke from Fox's loud voice and she was trying to get free from the covers. But Fox was trying not to let Tricky see them both completely exposed and question why they were like this.
"I want to see how you doing." Tricky said with his broken Cornerian and tail wagging. "I hope we could have fun. The three of us."
Krystal's head finally poked free from the covers and she turned to face Tricky. The dinosaur went from Fox and Krystal with his eyes, trying to understand what they were doing sleeping together.
"Tricky," Krystal said. "Can you give us a moment? We're not um… decent right now." She tried not to give too much detail.
Tricky just stared at the two and Fox made sure that Krystal was covered. Tricky didn't think much about it and decided to leave the foxes time to themselves.
"Okay. But I will wait." Tricky turned around and flashed a smile to both of them before leaving Krystal's home.
Both Fox and Krystal let out a sigh. Krystal then put on a smirk and turned to face Fox.
"That was some way to wake up." She giggled.
"The sight I had was way better than the one you had." Fox brought his muzzle close to Krystal's.
Krystal had a small red forming and leaned forward to Fox's muzzle. Fox moved forward and they both shared a morning kiss. Fox's hold became tighter and Krystal rested her hands on his chest, she traced the black scar he had over his heart.
It was at this point where they both realized that it was actually time to get up. They both were reluctant to separate, but Fox removed the covers and both looked at their naked forms before getting up and getting dressed. While they were getting dressed, they each would snatch the other's article of clothing and would run after to get it back.
Fox wrapped his arms around Krystal to get her to stop running. She was laughing and Fox couldn't hold in his laughter. Krystal gave Fox his shirt and Fox returned her chestplate. Their clothes were on and they sat back on Krystal's bed. The vixen placed her head on Fox's shoulders and Fox took this time to think about what just happened in the span of one night.
However, there was something else that he was thinking about. Krystal could sense this question radiating from his mind, so she decided to ask him what was bothering him.
"Fox, what's wrong? I can sense you're thinking about something." She pushed her head closer.
"I have been thinking. About one thing." Fox placed his head on top of Krystal's.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Krystal was thinking about what it was.
"It's actually about you." Fox admitted.
Krystal removed her head and looked up at Fox. He turned to face Krystal and held her hands. Krystal could sense he had a burning question to ask.
"Krystal. This is something that I have been discussing with my team. And I want to know what you would think. If you're willing to listen."
She gave Fox a nod and he decided to tell her something that his team would be on board with, given Krystal's say on the matter.
"You remember our old man, Peppy, right?" Fox saw Krystal giving a nod. "Well, he's said that being with us has been somewhat stressful. The war and the recent excursion on Sauria has been taking a toll on his health and this recent rest has gotten him thinking about the long run."
Krystal had a gleam in her eyes, she had a small feeling that it was going in the way she thought it was.
"We had a long talk about this. We discussed how it would plan out and it turns out, the guys are on board with it. We just need to know what," Fox stopped. "We just need to know what you would say."
Krystal's mouth was in awe and she confirmed her thoughts.
"Krystal. I ask this because I know you can hold your own. You've shown me the amazing fight you have and that's something that everyone else can agree with. So, I ask you on behalf of myself and Star Fox, we would like you to join our team."
Krystal went in full shock at what she was hearing. She had tears forming on the sides of her eyes.
"We'd put you through training and get you caught up with how we operate." Fox leaned forward and gazed into Krystal's eyes. "We'll welcome you to our team with open arms. If, you'd like to join us."
Fox waited for Krystal's response. He could see the tears forming on the corners. Krystal was still trying to process everything that Fox told her. He wanted her on the team, better yet, his whole team wanted her to join. She kept having these thoughts of how she would be with the team. There was only one way to find out if she would work well with them.
"Fox, this so much to take in." Krystal was still wrapping her head around this.
"Take your time." Fox assured. "It doesn't have to be right now."
Krystal, however, seemed to have her mind set. She jumped forward and gave Fox a tight hug. Fox returned the hug and she rubbed her head against his.
"Fox," she said through tears. "I don't know what to say, but I'd be honored to join your team."
Fox started to smile and he could feel Krystal stroking his back. He had to lightly push her off so he could explain what would happen next. Krystal's eyes were red around from the tears.
"It'll take some time for you to get situated, but you can do it. I know you can." He placed a hand on her cheek. Krystal's nuzzled into his hand and her smile kept growing.
It took Krystal no more than ten minutes to get her belongings. She was excited at this new start that she did four lookovers of her room to make sure she didn't skip on anything around her. They both scaled down the mountain, holding hands along the way to make sure neither fell.
They reached the bottom and the next stop was the EarthWalker's palace to break the news to Auserij. It would be a good thing to meet with the king. Fox also contacted the Great Fox to get the mothership to Sauria. It took the Arwing about two minutes to reach, but he was curious on how long the Great Fox would take. Slippy ringed back and said it would be about five minutes.
Tricky was walking around a small cluster of trees and saw the two foxes coming from the distance. He called out to them and they both were cornered by the EarthWalker. At least Krystal could tell Tricky what was going to happen. Tricky's face went down, but she assured that she'd make visits to check up on him and his parents.
The three walked back to Walled City all while Tricky was jumping around them. Krystal really didn't mind it and tried to get Fox to not pay him too much attention, but it was difficult because the dinosaur wanted Fox to play with him every second of the walk.
When they returned to Walled City, most of the EarthWalkers welcomed back Fox and thanked him for doing his best to help with their small village. The three entered the EarthWalker's palace most of the EarthWalker soldiers escorted the three to the throne room. Fox looked around the hallways and remembering walking down this same hallway when he first arrived here.
"Fox, is that really you?" The king said as they entered the throne room.
"Yes. It has been a while." Fox looked at the king. He seemed to be the only one in the room. Fox then remembered that Tricky announced that his mother was ill. "I'm sorry for my year of absence."
"I assume something happened that you needed to attend to." Auserij removed himself from the throne to meet Fox and Krystal halfway.
"Yeah, there was a setback." Fox chuckled, rubbing his neck.
"It's nice that you came back to see us." Auserij put out his paw and Fox gave it a shake. It was here where Krystal went forward.
"Actually, there is something we came here to tell you." Krystal stood next to Fox. "I'll be joining Fox and his team. He asked me earlier and I accepted."
Auserij stared at Krystal and then to Fox. He could see what was happening and he was both happy and sad. He was happy that Krystal was seeking something livelier with Fox, but he was sad at losing a very important figure close to his family.
"Ah Krystal. There is no need to explain. I understand what you are doing." Auserij said with a smile. "You'll always have a home here, as do you Fox. You're always welcome."
Fox and Krystal expressed their thanks, but Krystal made another stop to Sosacau's chamber to speak with her. Fox gave her time to talk with the queen and Fox got a call from the Great Fox. They were already in Sauria's orbit and Fox went outside to meet with them. He looked at the mothership descending on the patch of grass that was outside Walled City.
The cargo doors expelled pressure and they lowered. Fox saw his team standing at the door and Fox walked up to meet them all. Fox didn't go way into detail of what happened during the night, just that he and Krystal were on good terms. Even if all his friends had the same grin on their faces.
Fox didn't let it faze him, he just embraced it and they were okay with it. His ears perked as he heard another set of footsteps walking up the ramp. He turned back to see Krystal finished with her talk.
"Did you get everything?" He asked a final time.
"I believe so," she answered. Krystal turned to the rest of the team. "It's nice to see all of you again. I'll do my best and pull my own weight on this team."
Fox could see that they all felt Krsytal's words to be sincere. She was willing to adapt to a new life and learn from each of them on how to become a mercenary. Peppy had a small feeling his replacement would do right by the entire team.
"It's good to have you back with us, Ms. Krystal." Peppy announced her welcome.
"Thank you. And you don't have to be so formal with me." Krystal reminded him.
"Ah, well it's just a small habit I need to get rid of now. I assume you don't need another tour of the ship."
"It has been a year since I've been here. So, another one wouldn't hurt." Krystal placed her hands behind her back.
Peppy stepped aside and outstretched his arm into the hangar, showing that he wanted to show Krystal the Great Fox. Krystal looked to Fox and he motioned for her to go with him, sensing that he didn't mind the old hare reintroducing her to the mothership.
Krystal gleefully walked beside Peppy has he started to present the hangar to her and the Arwings. Fox let them and motioned Slippy and Falco to follow him. Fox did turn back to Walled City. The houses weren't able to be seen from the wall, but Fox did see the EarthWalker's palace.
"You okay, Fox?" Falco's voice broke him from his gaze.
"Just thinking about what's happened over the past year." Fox looked to where Peppy and Krystal were.
Peppy was showing Krystal his Arwing. She would nod occasionally as Peppy was pointing to the different switches and levers the Arwing had inside. Fox felt Falco give him a nudge on his shoulder.
"You did good, cap." Falco smirked.
"Oh, shut up." Fox rolled his eyes, while internally admitting it.
"You guys coming?" Slippy asked as the elevator cabin arrived.
The three bunched in and made it to the deck. When the entered, they were greeted with ROB, who said that they had some jobs already available courtesy of Corneria. Most of them were either escort missions or helping locals on planets to fend off pirates. So, of course, Fox picked the more dangerous one for the better pay.
Fox didn't want to throw Krystal in blindly, so he thought it best for her to stay back on the bridge to watch how they fly and take down targets. Good visual learning before she jumps into simulation training.
As Fox announced the acceptance of their job on Titania, the Great Fox lifted from Sauria and the ship broke through the clouds. Moments later, they found themselves in endless space and Peppy and Krystal entered the deck.
"I though Pep might have gotten lost with how long he took showing you around," Fox joked.
"I'm old, but not that old to not remember where I am. And hopefully I never get there." Peppy shook his head.
"And hopefully he didn't bore you with his stories." Falco chimed in.
"I have interesting stories to tell, thank you very much." The hare howled at the avian.
"Such as?" Krystal asked with much interest.
So, Peppy told his stories. From his small upbringings to meeting James. It was here where Fox went to full attention. Peppy talked about the start of Star Fox and how close they were and how he was honored to be an honorary member of the McClouds. Falco was leaning against a chair reading a magazine, but was also listening in. As did Slippy from the other side of the deck.
Krystal was at wonder at Peppy's stories. She looked down to Fox, who was sitting in the captain's chair and was also listening, even if he's heard most of them.
Fox. She reached out to him
Fox was thrown off by hearing her, but he responded back. Yes?
Thank you.
For what? A smile was forming on Fox.
For taking me in. And giving me a chance to prove myself.
Fox looked up to Krystal and she had small tears forming. Peppy was still talking, but could see that they lost in themselves. The two foxes returned to Peppy as they let him continue his story. ROB announced that they would reach their destination within a couple of hours and Fox explained to Krystal what would happen. She agreed that she was new to this and she would watch from above.
Krystal looked out to the stars that she dreamed of seeing up close. She marveled as he Great Fox kept moving along through space, and a new chapter in Star Fox was about to begin.
A/N: So, here we are. The final chapter. This was one wild ride and I actually can't believe I made it this far.
Just want to thank those who followed and reviewed my story from beginning to end. Made some new friend along the way and don't worry, I got more stuff coming soon. More stories that I want to tell and to those in the Foxhole: #BerylliumBoys for life!
Thanks for all and see y'all later.
Until next time, Stabby out.