(Sorry for the unique gap size. Enjoy what is easily the most significant chapter,.. Drum roll. THE DATE! Cue Curtain).
4:50 P.M. Star Fox Crew Household
One of the annoying things in life is how you have to sort of pinpoint a part of your self in the mirror to do something. Krystal's case was no different, as she was trying to get the needle of her earring right through the hole in her ear, only to frequently miss.
"So much effort for this little thing. Bloody ridiculous", the vixen said to herself as she finally got it in.
With her ears adorned, she picked up her lip gloss. It was a rich, very light blue color so as not to contrast too much with her white face. She applied it so lightly in order to make it fade just perfectly. A few touches of mascara with a little light blue eye shadow later and she was done. She looked at herself thoughtfully in the mirror. There was still the matter of clothing.
"I don't think Fox would have a problem with just a bra and underwear, but the general public would. Oh well. I'm not so sure he won't see this at some point tonight", Krystal thought to herself with a giggle.
She walked over to her closet and opened it up. She was fairly certain Fox would keep this as sort of a casual evening, but wanted to try to look dressed for both casual and formal situations. For her top, she decided on a black long sleeve with no shoulder coverage but with a slightly thicker wrap around the top of it. It had layers that seemed to flare out just slightly. As for below, a sleek, nice black skirt just below the knees matched perfectly.
"This looks pretty good. Now for the appropriate footwear." The young lady looked at the choices she had back in the closet. "The boots come a little too high for this skirt, despite the good pairing. My thongs seem a little…too casual. My ceremony heels are a little too formal though. My sneakers are definitely out of the question. Oh wait a sec."
She spotted some heels: black with three straps, two towards the toe area, and one for the ankle. They stood up two inches but on a forgiving heel.
"Perfect!" Krystal complimented the shoes. "Matching color, fairly sexy structure, and I can show Fox the pedicure he almost ruined this morning."
She put them on quickly and checked herself top to bottom in the mirror. She put one hand on her hip and leaned slightly. For all her proper mannerisms, she really did enjoy a little "bedroom runway." The girl liked what she saw. "I just hope he does too."
ooo
Simultaneously, the vulpine had run to his room when he got home. He didn't get a look at Krystal since her door was closed. There's was no time anyway. He had to get dressed right now.
"I imagine since I didn't tell Krystal much, she's probably gonna aim for something between formal and casual. Let's see if I can keep in step!" Fox said with a cocky grin.
He opened his closet and undressed to his boxers. It seemed unnecessary to get dressed all over again, considering he had just showered right before he left, but he wanted to do it perfect. The first thing he grabbed were some nice faded blue jeans that were slightly loose but fit well and looked decent. Fox looked in the mirror and tried to focus on his upperbody.
"What would be a good shirt for this? I can't wear just a T-shirt. And quite frankly, polos are for those rich yacht types. I need some better inspiration right now!' Fox exclaimed, annoyed.
He scanned the closet and something caught his eye. Fox let out a curious hum and grabbed its hanger. It was a dark gray, almost black, long-sleeve formal shirt, a button-up, with no other colors. There were about fifteen stripes that went over the shirt, but were still black. They just were somewhat more glossy and shiny than the other sections of the shirt. It looked perfect for the evening.
Fox whistled as he looked at it. "Damn. This looks pretty good!" He put on a white under shirt then put on the button-up. "Yeah… yeah! I'm really diggin' this. I hope Krystal does."
He made his way to the door and took a deep breath. "Well, here goes."
Krystal made her way to her door and took a deep breath. "Well, here goes."
Fox turned the knob and pulled the door open.
Krystal turned the handle and pulled the door open.
The two doors across from each other in the hallway opened at the same time. Fox and Krystal each stepped out and looked at each other in silence.
"Oh my. He…he looks so handsome." She noticed his shirt. "Aww what a sweetheart. He's wearing a formal shirt for the occasion", Krystal thought as she looked at him.
"Oh my God. She…she looks so beautiful, l..like an angel." As she had hoped, Fox caught a glimpse of her nails. "Aw that's cute. She painted her nails for the occasion", Fox thought as he looked at her.
"You look...incredible", they said to each other at the same time. They blushed for a few seconds then laughed.
Fox cleared his throat. "Uh... wow! I'm honored that I get to take out a lady as unbelievably beautiful as you", Fox complimented with a chuckle.
"You think you're fortunate? I'm flattered to have been asked out by such a handsome fox", Krystal returned the compliment with her own cute laugh.
Fox blushed. She returned it. That laugh was always a turn on to him.
"Well Krys, it's 4:57. Shall we be going?" he asked her.
She smiled and put on her red jacket. "Let's", she said in very inviting tone.
Fox put on his gray sports coat and gave her a sly smile. "Race you to the door!" Before he even finished his sentence he turned and made a sprint down the hallway. Krystal followed less than a second after him. At the banister Fox hopped up on the banister and slid down, jumping off at the bottom. As soon as he spun around Krystal was almost at the bottom of the banister and jumped towards him. He caught her in his arms, with her own around his neck.
"What do I win?" he asked coyly.
Krystal put one hand on his face and leaned in to kiss him. Neither of the two pulled away.
Falco just happened to walk in to the living room holding his phone. "Hey Fox, did you unpack the charg-!" He stopped in his tracks, mouth agape as he looked at his best friend kissing their newest teammate. "Uh…whoah. Nevermind. Sorry." He turned around awkwardly and went to the kitchen.
The two foxes hadn't even noticed the Avian at all. Eventually Fox broke up the kiss. "Okay I need some air. Let's get this date started."
They walked out to Fox's car and he opened the passenger door. "Your chariot, milady", he said with a bow. Krystal gave him a peck and got in. Fox closed her door and walked over to the other side and got in. Fox turned the car on and looked at Krystal.
"You call it. What's first? Dinner or the fun?" he asked.
Krystal put a finger to her chin and let out a hum. "How about I'll choose that we go to dinner first, but as for the fun, …I really like surprises." She finished her sentence with a very fun, sexy voice.
A good friend of Fox's started to come up for a visit from below.
Almost instantly his inner voice came in to help.
"Aw fuck. Come on! Dude, not now. Put it away.!"
"What do I do? What do I do?"
"Ok. Don't panic. Think of something gross."
"Ok…..…EWWWWWW!"
"What? What happened?"
"I though of Slippy IN SMALL SWIMWEAR! EUGH!"
"GAHHH! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!?"
"Oh shit. It worked!"
"I fucking hope so! Jesus. Sick-minded son of a bitch."
The third member of the party snapped the two back to reality. "Fox, are you ok? What are you staring at?"
Fox snapped out of it. "Huh? Oh. Nothin Krys. I was just letting the car heat up a little bit." He fixed his mirror and buckled up. "All right then. You said dinner. And I just happen to know the perfect place!"
ooo
The best restaurants have always been characterized by having great food, an atmosphere that welcomes all, fair prices and genuine folks working there. If you were to ask Fox if he had a place like that, he'd probably tell you to head over to the 'WestBeach Distillery'. It was a beautifully built establishment, wood-framed yet comfortable looking, and sat near the beach cliff side. Its large parking lot sat next to it, almost completely full, but yielded a spot for Fox to pull into. As soon as the car stopped, he got out of the car and made his way towards Krystal's side to open the door. She beat him too it, but he offered his hand to help her out.
"My…such a gentleman. I'll remember that." Krystal closed her door and put her arms around his arm. Fox grinned at her. "Allow me the pleasure of escorting the lady?"
Krystal laughed as the two walked to the restaurant and went inside. They stopped in front of an empty waiting stand.
"Hmmm. I guess there's good business tonight. Hope we can get a table," Fox remarked to Krystal and himself.
"Come now! Zere's always room for mon favorite customer," came a cheery voice that came out of nowhere.
Fox and Krystal turned to be face to face with a white Cat, roughly in her late forties. She smiled a big smile as she ran to Fox and gave him a big hug. "Bonjour Fox! Oh I missed you! Look at you, handsome as ever, all grown up now. Still my little Fox on ze inside, non?"
McCloud returned the hug with just as much enthusiasm. "Its great to see you, Mrs. Ryland. It's good to see some familiar faces here. How have you been?" Fox asked with a warm smile.
"I've been fine, hon. I wish to know about you, always placing yourself in such dangerous missions and adventures. I worry about you. You are like a nephew to moi!" Mrs. Ryland paused as she noticed Krystal holding gently onto Fox's arm with a warm smile. "And what iz zis? A lovely young lady on your arms? Et tres jolie, n'est pas?" Mrs. Ryland asked as her eyes scanned Krystal, head to toe.
"Oui," Fox answered. "Easily the most beautiful woman I know, both inside and out. Mrs. Ryland, I would like you to meet my very good friend and date for the evening, Krystal."
Krystal blushed and shook the Cat's hand politely. Madame Ryland then kissed each side of her face. "Merci, Madame Ryland. It's a pleasure to meet you!" she said with a smile. "I am confused though, how long have you two known each other?" the vixen asked curiously.
Mrs. Ryland smiled as she rubbed the top of Fox's head. "Zis handsome young man has been somezing of an adopted nephew to moi since he came to my restaurant when he was only a young child wihz his parents. Ze Lord rest zeir souls. He has been my little Fox for as long as I have known him. And he iz zuch a nice boy, would you not agree young lady?"
Krystal kissed Fox's burning red cheek and answered, "Definitely, I'm the fortunate one here to have been asked out by him," she assured in a gentle tone. Fox felt warmed by her graciousness.
Mrs. Ryland nudged Fox. "Looks like you have truly found a keeper, zis lovely blue rose of a girl." She stepped back and looked at them both "However, even roses need to be fed. Come with moi, I think zere is a table for you," the cat said kindly as she led the two foxes to their seats.
She gave them a table more towards the middle of the room, surrounded by other people enjoying their meals. The sound was quiet but pleasant, gentle music playing mixed with the light sound of many different conversations going on all at the same time: not too loud, not too quiet, just perfect. The table had two plates set nicely with a folded napkin and silverware for each. The center was decorated with a beautiful glass vase holding three beautiful roses, bright red as a cherry.
Fox pulled out Krystal's chair and pushed it in as she sat down. He went to his own and set the napkin in his lap, as did Krystal. Mrs. Ryland handed them each a menu. "For your interest, zere is a section in ze menu meant for 'dinner for two' specials. I highly recommend zem," she commented with a wink. Before leaving, she took one of the decorative roses and broke off part of the stem. She leaned towards Krystal and placed the Rose in her blue hair. "Zere we are. Zuch a beautiful girl! You are more zan welcome to keep zat. It compliments you so well!" the cat said before leaving the two vulpines alone.
Krystal turned to Fox, blushing. "She's such a sweet woman." Fox nodded. "Very true," he agreed. "But I say she comes in at a close second, behind you," he followed, smiling.
Krystal blushed. "You're the sweetie here, if you ask me. Let's save some remarks for later though. I can't wait to try the food here," the vixen said excitedly.
Fox found the specials in the menu. His eyes searched the entire page then seemed to stop. "Say Krys, how does this sound to you? Cornerian salmon in a wildberry glaze for two, served with Katina garden salad and an eastern- Macbeth-grown assortment of roasted vegetables. Comes with desert and a bottle of The Gods'Vine port. Whaddya think?" he asked his date.
The description made the young woman's mouth water so much she almost drowned herself. "That sounds delicious," Krystal answered, slightly hungrily.
"Hmmm. Someone sounds pretty hungry," Fox chuckled at Krystal's response. She giggled herself, in that same way she always does. Under the table Fox noticed some response to the laughter "downstairs" and discreetly punched himself in the groin.
Krystal looked at his facial expression quizzically. "Um... Fox, are you ok? Your eyes are watering."
Fox thought quickly. "Oh… uh... I'm fine. I just… uh… was looking at the shine in your eyes," he lied smoothly.
Krystal grinned at him. "I know you're hiding something, but since you're so cute tonight and full of flattering remarks, I'll let it go," she said jokingly.
Fox felt his mojo and decided to try a barrage of compliments, but was trying to plan ahead a bit.
"All right McCloud, how do we wanna do this? I don't wanna sound cliché poetic, but I don't wanna sound like a retard either. Just be honest, and get it just right. Relax. Sub-conscious, I'm expecting help."
Fox decided to just be confident about it. They were already on the date, so what was the point of just worrying? He started up, remembering not to stutter or let his voice crack.
"Thanks for the warning, officer. Hehe." Fox was already feeling comfortable, though he even felt that last one was a little crappy. It occurred to him, now might be a good time to admit something he'd wanted to say for far too long. "But honestly though, Krystal, I'd like to tell you… out of all the girls and women I've ever met, you easily have the prettiest- no, … the most beautiful eyes," Fox said calmly and clearly.
Krystal blushed and her eyes widened. But instinctively, she looked away a bit and hid her smile behind her palm. "Thank you Fox," she giggled. "I honestly love yours the most out of any guy I've ever met too. No lie. They're so green and comforting. And they have such a powerful confidence in them, almost hypnotic. I want you to know that I sincerely adore them."
Fox's face turned completely crimson. He thanked God for his fur. "Thank you, Krystal," he spoke appreciatively. "But ya know, it's not just your eyes. From your cute nose, to your shapely ears, to your sweet, inspiring smile, ...I don't know if I've ever told you, and not to sound too bold, but you are, without a doubt, the most beautiful vixen I know."
Fox was blushing harder than ever in the midst of the silence that had ensued. His face felt warm enough to grill a steak. He couldn't believe what just jumped out of his mouth: all the feelings that had consumed his thoughts but could never escape. After all this time, he finally confessed his most prominent thought since the day he met her out loud. Well… his second most prominent thought…
To Fox's great surprise,.. he was starting to feel good. Really good.
Krystal's blush was no slouch in comparison to Fox's. It actually gave his a run for its money. Of course, Fox hadn't noticed it due to Krystal's shining blue fur. She didn't make a surprised, wide-eyed flattered face like Fox was anticipating. She merely put a hand to her mouth as it curved into her sexy smile. She let out yet another one of those adorable giggles that made Fox's heart melt.
She blinked in a seductive fashion then smiled at Fox.
"I'm pretty sure it's my turn", she said with a laugh. "I've also wanted to say this, but always felt it would be too strong and well, a little awkward. But, because you've set the field, you've given me the best opportunity here. So I'm going to take it."
Fox was confused, but stayed relaxed. She was smiling, so he felt he should smile right back. Obviously, her next statement was seemingly going to be a good thing. And it was.
"Fox," Krystal began, " I have known so many men as well as boys during my travels, my lifetime. And yet, you have undoubtedly proved to be the most handsome fox with the most comforting smile I've ever known in my life. And if that's not the truth that I have just told you, then may the forces of nature lash at me with a bolt of lightning right here."
Fox just looked at her and, when she finished, seemed to look outside. Krystal's curiosity was piqued.
"Rain cloud," Fox said with a blank face.
Krystal just burst out with that. Not just her simple chuckle, but heartily laughed. It had honestly caught her off guard and she found it hysterical.
"Hahahahaha! Oh wow. Hahaha. I'm sorry Fox. Hahaha. Oh my! You delivered that absolutely perfectly. Hahaha ha ha..ah." She calmed down and cleared her throat. "But seriously though Fox, every word I said, I meant 200," she assured him.
Fox chuckled. "Hehehe. I know. I believe you. And I'm very grateful for your words! You really know how to make a fox feel special, Krys."
"Likewise. These past few days, you've been treating me like a princess. Should I be expecting a glass slipper in the future?" She asked chuckling.
Fox gave her a sly look. "Sorry. No slipper with me. I hope you can settle for this," he said smirking.
Her face became curious again. "Huh? Settle for what, DiiyYAAAAAHAHAHAHA!" She couldn't finish her question as the sensation made itself known. Something furry and slightly itchy tickled the edge of her foot as her leg was crossed. She instantly jerked her foot away.
Krystal returned Fox's smile. "Naughty boy. You and your tail watch out. I might be tempted to get revenge," she said almost invitingly.
Fox chuckled. "You say that like it's a bad thing! Besides I think you really liked it but just won't act like it!" His eyes exuded that wicked McCloud confidence.
Krystal kept her smile. "Hmmm. Maybe. If you're a good boy tonight, who knows? I might be tempted to let you try it tonight," she said with a wink. "You're right. It did feel good, verrrry... good," she purred.
Fox, again, threw a punch at his teabags. "Hmmm. May I apologize and offer to compensate with a McCloud brand massage?"
Krystal kept up that sexy expression. Her fingers seemed to clench the edge of the table. "How about a little bit of both, if it's alright?"
Fox winked. "My pleasure," he said, matching her look.
Krystal's face became stern. "What exactly do you mean by 'pleasure' Fox?"
Fox's mind instantly started to panic.
"OH VERY NICE, DICKHEAD! EXCELLENT CHOICE OF WORDS. REALLY!"
"FUCK YOU! You're the one who was supposed to filter everything!"
Fox got his mind back on the matter at hand and instantly tried to mend it.
"NO no no! Krystal, please! I-I didn't mean it that! I just meant-er.. I was just –uh…oh God I'm sorry if that came out like that. I didn't mean it like that! Honest! I-"
Krystal put her finger to his mouth and hushed him. Fox looked down at her hand and just started to get very scared. Krystal just looked at him with an angry face. Fox was waiting to get hit or something, so he shut his eyes in anticipation. Then, after a few seconds, Krystal's frown, kinda faltered. The corners of her lips began to curve upwards. She couldn't fight it anymore and started laughing hard again.
"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAOHHAHAMYHAHAHGODHAHAAHAHAHAHA!"
She was in hysterics! She couldn't breathe and tears fell from her eyes. It left Fox completely dumbfounded.
She calmed down like before, but this time leaned forward and kissed him on the lips. Fox was still dumbfounded, but now also felt like laughing also, for some idiotic reason.
"Uh…Krystal," he began, "what... uh… er… huh?"
She smiled at him. "Sorry hon. I couldn't resist…..Oh my God you looked like you were going to piss yourself! Hahahahaha. Sorry again. I just wanted to pull a little prank, because you had it coming. Feel good or not, you can't tickle my feet unexpectedly and just get away with it! Hehe," she giggled at him.
As soon as his heart started beating at normal speed again, Fox regained his composure. "That sounds like a challenge to me. Just for that, I'll make sure you won't forget tonight," he said with a chuckle of his own.
Krystal smiled and slid her paw across his tail, smirking and holding back small giggles. "That sounds pretty exciting. I can't wait." She purred again. Fox's tail gently twirled around her ankle, the fur sensually embracing her leg. Krystal's eyes closed and she bit her lip, letting a small, sensual sigh escape her.
The now very aroused Fox was about to respond when Mrs. Ryland appeared holding her notepad. "Have ze lovebirds made zeir choice?"
Fox and Krystal simultaneously blushed. Fox looked back up at Mrs. Ryland and smiled at her. "Yes we have. Could we get the venison item from the specials' menu please? It sounds delicious."
Mrs. Ryland smiled at him and jotted it down. "Oui. Of course. It iz one of my own preferences actually. It should be ready in about twenty minutes. Be back soon."
Fox and Krystal basically just started up the small talk again, with fox saying how he went to see Peppy and Krystal talking about the little spats and insults between Slippy and Falco while they were unpacking.
"..and it was pretty embarrassing, for once, on Falco's part," Krystal commented before taking a sip of her wine.
Fox listened with great interest. "Really? Why? What happened?"
Krystal put the wine down. "They started tugging each on side of the bag. Slippy tried to move his hands closer but grabbed the zipper and so he pulled it open. And then," she started laughing again, "then all these pictures of some Felinian girl named Katt spilled out of her in an array of several bathing suits. Falco's eyes widened so big he looked like Slippy!"
Fox put his hand to his snout to tame his hysterical laughter. "Hahaha! Oh man. He told me he burned those last summer. Damn, I feel bad for him. He says he's moved on but he just can't forget!"
Krystal's curiosity was piqued. "Hm? She some sort of ex-girlfriend?"
"Yeah. She has kinda the 'arrogant' factor like he does. So they never really worked things out when the relationship got rocky. It's a shame though. They were good together."
The vixen's ears fell. "Oh no! Poor thing. I guess that would explain the reason for the cocky façade."
Fox ears drooped too. "I know what you mean. He needs to find somebody wh-"
Just then Mrs. Ryland had appeared with their dinner.
"Sorry to interrupt. Zere you are. Ze salmon special! Bon appetite!"
The two started into their meal and loved it. Everything was cooked to perfection. The wine was also superb. Krystal stopped at two glasses though, claiming she was a lightweight.
Mrs. Ryland came back and took their plates, and then dropped off their dessert.
"Mmmm," Fox said as he took in the familiar aroma. "Tiramisu. The absolute best on Corneria! You'll love this."
Krystal picked up her fork and took a bite. She coughed a couple of times after giving it a few chews.
"Oh my. That's why I don't drink coffee. You're right though Fox, this is absolutely delicious."
"What'd I tell ya? " he said grinning. Fox thought it was turn to spice her up. He couldn't let her have all the fun. "Oh Krystal?"
"Hm?" she looked up from her slice.
"You might want to eat all of that" he said with a concerned look.
She looked a little worried. "Oh. Of course. But why the nervous look?"
He turned his fake expression into a sly smile. "You're gonna need your energy tonight."
She chuckled to herself and winked at him. "I'll be sure to."
They finished their cakes and got set to leave.
Madame Ryland came by so escort them out. "I truly hope ze two of you enjoyed you meals, and that you had a wonderful time tonight. Thank you so much for coming."
"Oh no. Thank you Mrs. Ryland. I had such a lovely time here. Yours is probably the best restaurant I've been to," Krystal chimed. She gave her a big hug.
The cat kissed the sides of her face again. "You are welcome here anytime my dear. And now for my little boy"
Fox chuckled as he walked up to her and gave her a big hug. "It was really great to see you again. And thank you so much for everything this evening. It's very appreciated."
"Ze pleasure was all mine. And it is us who appreciate your choosing us."
"Anytime Mrs. Ryland. By the way how much for everything?"
"Not a penny. And don't argue. I can see ze love amongst ze two of you. Such a thing shouldn't come with prices. Besides, as I said, It was great to have you back."
Fox pondered, then answered, "Well, I won't argue with that. But then you can't argue with this." He took her hand and put 80 credits in it. "Think of it as a tip. We gotta keep a place like this going, after all." He then leaned forward and kissed her cheek. "Not to eat and run, but the night's still young. We're gonna be heading out. Thank you again, for everything!"
She put the money away knowing in half a second Fox could sprint to the car before she could give it back.
"You are very welcome. And Krystal it was lovely meeting you! The two of you enjoy your evening, oui? Au Revoir!"
"Have a good night Mrs. Ryland," Fox called back.
"You too Mrs. Ryland. Au Revoir!" Krystal called as well.
The two went outside, where Fox helped Krystal into the car. He started it up and they were off.
Ooo
The thing about Corneria was that, even with all the lights from the city, vehicles and whatever else, the stars were always very visible.
Just along the highway, Krystal looked through her window at the stars and sighed.
Fox smirked. "You read my mind."
Krystal looked up. "Huh?"
"You were looking at the stars right?" Fox asked.
"Oh. Yeah. Aren't they beautiful, Fox. To think we fly through them almost everyday, but you can never get enough of them."
"I know what you mean," Fox answered. "Particularly the radiant blue one sitting in the passenger seat."
Krystal silently turned away from her window and leaned towards Fox and kissed his cheek. She then nuzzled his neck, and he did the same, still paying attention to the road.
She smiled at him warmly. "I love you."
Fox froze. The car stood completely silent. He palms started sweating like crazy and he felt like he swallowed his tongue. His mouth was dry, his body was tingling, and he was dumbstruck.
But….then, suddenly, his heart started beating with excitement. He felt like a computer that just got like rebooted with an upgrade.
Fox leaned in as she did for a passionate kiss. After all this time, those three little words were finally on the table. "I love you too."
Krystal pulled away sweetly and got back into her normal tone. "So, what's next? As I recall, this part of the evening is up to you."
Fox remembered and gave it some thought. He kept his eyes about looking for any inspiration. After about a minute and a half, he spied a Grand Corneria Suites hotel. He'd been to this particular one before. It had really nice rooms with pretty good accommodations, an independent franchise restaurant on the bottom floor with outside seats, two pools, indoor and out, and it was coastal, so the hotel actually owned a large stretch of the beach right next to it.
Fox also noticed the hotel's front board was advertising for tonight an open door dance for the hotel's golden anniversary, from 8:00 until 2:30.
"Sweeeeeeeeet," thought Fox to himself.
Krystal noticed his grin. "What's up?" she asked with interest.
"Feel like staying at a nice hotel for the evening?" he answered with his own question.
"Oh. Well, I suppose that'd be lovely. The only dilemma is that the clothes you see before you are all I brought," she said with a silly smile.
"I wouldn't worry about that. Right near the lobby they have a little boutique for vacation clothes. You can get some shorts and a shirt, same for me. Sound any better?" Fox asked with hope.
Krystal put her hand to her chin and smiled. "Hmmm. All right then. I like it, a lot!"
"Cool!" Fox chimed. "By the way, if you're up for it, the hotel is having an open door dance. Would you-?"
The surprised vulpine was cut off by a kiss. Krystal ran her finger up Fox's chin. "I'd love to, Fox," she interrupted yet again with her seductive voice.
Fox couldn't have been more excited, though he hadn't really been to a dance since high school. He skipped the one at his air force graduation and just went to Hooters with Falco, because neither of them had dates and they figured they'd have more fun that way.
Krystal stretched back and smiled. "I haven't gotten a chance to dance in ages. I can't wait."
Fox raised his brows. "You really like dancing, huh?"
"Oh, heavens yes!" she answered. "The thrill of the motion mixed with the rhythm of the music. No other thing like it, if you ask me. Once in a while I just dance in my dorm listening to whatever's on the radio. It's such an escape."
Fox was impressed. "Hm... There's always something new to you! Oh there's the lot entrance. As soon as I make the reservations, let's get some swimsuit clothes, put them in our room and head to the dance, cool?"
"Ice cold," she remarked with a goofy smile.
Fox pulled into the lot and parked. He made his way to the front doors with Krystal and went inside. She almost fell back.
The interior design was beautiful. All sleek with a large amount of windows that allowed one to get a beautiful view of the lights outlining the building and the star flooded night sky, especially the roof. The floor was very sleek tile, much like a mall, but also filled with several exotic breeds of trees and bushes, not to mention small rivers with bridges and a waterfall, giving it that really charming forest atmosphere. Folks in business suits, teens in debutante and dance outfits, mothers walking with their children to the pools, couples walking to the restaurant or perhaps the beach, along with plenty of other people sitting at all the tables in the main lobby and discussing the dance to ensue.
A young snow leopard was working at the reception desk. He glanced over at Fox and Krystal. "Good evening sir, madame. Welcome to Grand Corneria Suites. How may I help you?" he asked as the two approached.
"Good evening to you too, sir," Krystal answered him. "And it's mademoiselle, unfortunately," she added with a chuckle.
"The same, sir," Fox told the leopard. "I'd like to get a room for the evening please, preferably First-class is there's one available."
The leopard turned to his computer and checked. "There's plenty. How about 318? Sound good?"
"Sounds great," Fox and Krystal said in unison. They also followed with a simultaneous blush.
The leopard plucked out the card key as soon as it was printed. "Here's your card key sir. Enjoy your-! Whoah! Wait a minute. Aren't you Fox Mcloud and Krystal from the Star Fox team?"
Fox looked concerned. "Um..well…yeah. Hey buddy, if you could, please don't tell anybody. I-," he got cut off.
The leopard finished for him, "You and Krystal are on a date, and you wanna enjoy the magic of the evening without a bunch of fan boys and girls hittin' you up for your autograph, right?"
"Right," the celebrity answered.
"Sorry Mr. Mcloud, but unfortunately…." he began.
"Shit," the vulpines thought to themselves.
"Unfortunately I just don't have it in me to mess up something like this for you two. Besides I would hope that you come back here for your honeymoon," he finished his sentence.
Fox sighed in relief. "Whew. Thanks buddy. Believe me, th-! Wh-what! Honeymoon? I'm not.., er,…she's not..uh…well yeah we're…but not like..."
Krystal laughed, "It's Sauria all over again. Come on, sweetheart, let's go." She pulled the crimson Fox away laughing. The leopard chuckled to himself and turned to his work as other customers walked in.
The foxes walked over to the little boutique/gift shop and got some swimsuits. Fox got some blue and white trunks, Krystal got a purple two-piece.
She waved her purchase around in a teasing fashion while Fox was looking at her. She put just below her eyes like a harem girl mask and winked.
Fox winked back and pulled his shirt up about 6 inches to show off his pack. Just to be funny he brought his shorts to his face and mimicked Krystal.
She put her hand to her mouth and started laughing.
Once they got their suits, they headed to their room to drop them off. It did a lot for their egos. Every old husband in the building and every young buck in the lobby had to give Krystal a double-take. Meanwhile some of the younger girls, not so naïve as to not recognize a Lylat celebrity, giggled like little schoolgirls at the sight of Fox.
Krystal, again, was taken aback by her surroundings. The room was completely clean, white, soft carpeting, kitchen, couch, table, T.V., and in the next room was a large queen size bed. It also had a large sliding door with a balcony and view of the beach outside. Absolutely beautiful.
Krystal was standing in the bedroom looking at the view already as Fox came in and set his trunk on the side table. She looked at him and smiled. "Pretty big bed, huh Fox?"
Fox heard her, but wasn't caught off guard this time around. "Yep. Looks pretty comfy too. You'll be out like a light once your head touches that pillow."
Krystal knew he was prepared this time. "Where are you sleeping, tonight then?"
"On the floor," said Fox with a grin as he lay flat on the ground. "I'm a gentleman, after all."
Krystal climbed onto the bed, sitting in a model position, one hand on the mattress, the other moving up her thigh, very slowly. "I see. You'll probably be warm since, technically your elevation is lower."
"Got that right," Fox said as he stood back up.
Krystal looked at him and waved her hand around the bedspread. "I hope its not cold tonight. If it is, I don't suppose I could convince you to maybe leave your comfortable floor and… keep me warm?" She exaggerated her tone, trying to sound particularly vulnerable and damsel-esque. She simply adored playing with him like this.
He turned to face her. There were no words to describe her form. She knew what she was doing, and he loved it. It was the teasing, the coquettish doe-eyed façade. He knew it was just a front. He was learning a lot about her, he could now begin to see the real vixen beneath all the formality. Fox sat next to her and kissed her. "This fur does more than give me a red-orange color. But, I don't know if you'll even need my warmth tonight, even if it is cold."
Krystal didn't have a response for that one. "Hm? Why is that?"
Fox got off the bed and picked her up. "Cuz we're both gonna work up a sweat tonight. Let's dance."
"All right," Krystal said with a lot of energy. She hopped out of Fox's arms and hurried towards the door. Fox followed behind her.
ooo
Loud music. Multi-colored disco-style lights. Three talented deejays. And about five hundred furs dancing without a care in the world.
There's nothing like a dance for someone to completely let loose and have a kick-ass and memorable time. Fox and Krystal were going to make sure to take advantage of that.
The young couple finally made it to the front of the line and ran inside. They didn't waste any time getting started.
The deejays were playing everything straight, no one trying to reinvent the wheel. Everybody in the room was in their own rhythm.
Fox and Krystal joined the folks that were just dancing together instead of jumping. Krystal just wanted to dance with Fox, there'd be plenty of time to be jumping up and down later.
A little while later and something a little faster came on. As if it was rehearsed, every couple and pair switched their steps to something more dynamic.
Krystal may have been pretty foreign, but the message was loud and clear. She didn't waste a second to lean her ass on Fox's offspring factory.
Fox was surprised as hell but didn't show it. It's not like he was going to discourage what she was doing. He had actually already prayed for it three times. He got in rhythm with Krystal and they both started moving fast. The two would both look at the other's hands on Krystal's waist with the intense passionate expressions like that of a couple performing the tango.
Each was strongly enjoying the fun yet slightly erotic feel of the other, along with every other fur inside the hall. Ironically though, their minds were far away from sex. They were both, in light of all the connection between them, just excitedly enjoying their night with the other.
Fox yelled over all the noise, "Hey Krys! You never told me you were such a good dancer!"
Krystal called back, "I know this'll sound like a movie line but it helps when you have a talented partner!" She turned far enough to give him a kiss. She then turned her entire body around and jumped onto him.
Along with about half of the crowd, Fox was holdin' up his date under the legs for some mutual front contact. As her feet met the floor again, Krystal leaned in and started to kiss Fox with major aggression.
Being a gentleman, Fox returned it.
The song started fading out and Krystal hopped off. "Oh that was soooo fun." She started dancing again. "Sorry, Fox, I need to get my legs goin."
Fox wiped his the sweat from his forehead. "Hold up. Let's get a drink first. You know how to take a guy's energy Krys."
They spent a good ten minutes relaxing at the table a bit. A drunkard came over and tried to offer Krystal a dance, and then start a problem. The ignorant bastard grabbed her arm, but unfortunately had no way of dodging the roundhouse that Krystal unleashed. He got up to try again, but Fox moved like a red bolt and caught the guy in the jaw. Krystal felt a little turned on.
A security worker walked up behind Fox and put a hand on his shoulder. "Sir, while that guy was probably very deserving of what you and your friend here just did, I'm afraid you'll have to-!"
When Fox turned to face him the security guard's mouth dropped. He took a good look at Fox and then glanced at Krystal and scanned her with his eyes, top to bottom. "Fox? Krystal?"
He took off his sunglasses and looked at them with a smile. Fox and Krystal immediately recognized their good friend.
"Bill!" the two vulpine said in unison.
Bill and Fox gave each other a hardy hug, and as soon as Fox let go, Krystal rushed in and gave him a big squeeze.
"Oh whoah! Dude I didn't know you work here now. What's the deal?" Fox asked, playfully punching the side of Bill's arm.
"I got called back after we were a quarter of the way done with the repairs thanks to the Aparoids. I'm just here to make a little extra green," Bill answered returning the fake punch.
"That's good to hear," Krystal chimed in. "A quarter of that damage is worth a price I don't think I could count," she joked. "Oh and uh…sorry about the ruckus, Bill. Fox was just being a gentleman, sort of." Krystal laughed as she took a look at the unconscious drunk.
Bill laughed. "Don't worry about it. Seeing as that guy deserved it, I can let you guys slide. You actually just saved me from wasting the time to get rid of that douche bag. I-! Hey! Wait a minute!"
Fox and Krystal looked at each other quizzically and shrugged.
Bill had a stern look and pointed a finger at each of the two. He suddenly grinned at Fox. "You finally asked her out, after all this time, didn't you. This is a DATE, isn't it?"
Fox blushed and thanked the Lord God for his fur for the second time today. "Er…well…uh…yes." Fox scratched the back of his head.
Krystal approached him and put her arms around his neck, planting a kiss on his burning red cheek. "Yeah. He asked me out, and I, with great excitement I might add, said yes. Got a problem?" she asked with a grin that looked just like Fox's.
Bill put his hand in front of him. "No. No. Didn't mean anything. I, along with, well, everyone, was wondering when you two would go on a date finally."
"Finally?" Fox said awkwardly.
"Well, yeah," Bill began, "you guys have always seemed like the perfect couple since you met. I mean, the two of you are like a couple of series main characters that everyone wants together. You guys don't read the papers? Your both old-school heroes like you'd see in some old Disney movie. Plus I wouldn't wanna cause a problem with you Krys. You got a good set of legs… ah, for kicking I mean."
Fox and Krystal could only respond by looking at him with wide eyes, and by blushing so hard the warmth could be felt for a few inches around their heads.
Bill started to feel awkward. "Um…I think I'll go bust someone, on the…uh…far opposite side of the room. Enjoy your dance guys. Oh, and good to see you!"
The music seemed to fade as did Bill into the crowd. The deejay hit the records and mixed the fading song with a separate beat. They obviously weren't in harmony.
Fox finally found his ability to move. He then looked at Krystal. She was trying to focus on the new beat. It sounded a bit familiar.
"Now that that's outta the way, wanna dance?" he asked with a confident smile.
Krystal turned to him. "You bet. I absolutely love this song." She took a strong step with her foot and simultaneously shot her head sideways, in rhythm with the song. She looked up with cocky smile and pointed at Fox.
As the song went on, Krystal and Fox kept dancing intensely with each other the whole time.
Each of them was in another world, the same one though. It was just pure passion and fun, surrounded by rich energy and the heat of the other's body. Though how it was that Krystal knew hip-hop choreography, Fox couldn't figure out. "Not that I'm complaining…" he thought, watching her perfectly rounded ass. Nothing could've stopped it, at least until the deejays announced that they'd be taking a quick break.
Fox wiped his perspiring forehead with his hand. Krystal put her hand to her chest and felt her heartbeat as she slowly let it return to normal. The two vulpine speedily headed to the refreshment table and downed a couple bottles of water.
"Wow. Damn Krystal, you really know how to dance!" Fox exclaimed.
"Glug…Likewise…glug, glug…Fox," Krystal answered between swallows of the refreshing water.
Fox cooled down for a bit and then had an idea. "Hey Krys? It's gettin' pretty hot in there, and we're both soaked. Wanna go hit the pool and chill a little?"
"Perfect timing, Fox," Krystal said as she finished the bottle.
The two tired dancers started heading back to their room to grab their trunks/bikini.
ooo
SPLASH!
It's so hypnotic how the light shown through water makes that strange jiggling pattern on the pool floor. Fox stopped for a moment, after his obnoxious cannonball, to look at it. He didn't have to come up any time soon, he could hold his breath for a pretty long time. He felt like he could look at it all day; the lights, the calm blue surface, the tranquil sound, the…blue foot?
Krystal stepped on his forehead and gently kicked him downwards, then proceeded to swim away. The tan fox shook his head and swam after her, but below.
Above the water, Krystal stopped her swim to turn and look for her date. She didn't see anything. They were the only two in the pool, and in the pool area for that matter. She turned around to see if he had gotten behind her.
Still no sign of him.
Krystal scratched the top of her head. She then felt something jolt up her leg, through her lungs and out of her mouth in the form of laughter.
"HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHA! FOX! HAHASTAHAPIHIHIHIT!" Krystal exclaimed through the laughter. She was splashing about trying to grab onto anything, but she was in the middle of the pool. She could only wriggle and kick as much as she could, which wasn't much.
It stopped soon enough and Fox popped up in front of her, taking in a big gasp of air. He was looking at her with a devious smirk. "Kitchy koo," he said quietly with a big, goofy smile.
She looked at him with a pouting face. "That wasn't fair," she said trying to sound like a kid. "You held my ankles."
"And they're beautiful! Hehe," fox chuckled.
"Sometimes you're like a twenty-seven year old kid."
"And you're my twenty-three year old playmate."
Krystal stifled a chuckle. "Ya know, you're right." She swam to the pool ledge and picked a pressure water gun, for the kids that swim.
The vixen grinned at Fox as she loaded the gun. "Thirsty?"
Fox dove immediately. Watching her from below he tried to sneak around her on the pool bottom, but he couldn't seem to avoid her targeting. He came up slowly and tried to juke her shot by sticking his head up then quickly to the left. She managed to knick his ear.
Fox sat Indian-style in the water, a lot like a pondering monk, trying to contemplate his solutions. Then a few ideas came to him. First he went as low as he could at the opposite end, then came up quickly for a big gasp of air. Krystal landed a good hit just as Fox submerged. As soon as he got low enough, he started to blow out a lot of bubbles towards the top. After about three seconds, Fox swam towards Krystal as low as he could. His plan was working. She was aiming where the bubbles led her to believe he was going to come up for air.
Meanwhile up top, Krystal was aiming her gun at the spot with a smile. "Have a drink, hon," she said slyly. Suddenly a hand burst out from behind her and grabbed the gun. As she was caught off guard, Fox continued his tickled assault under her arm, which sent her into hysterics.
The two vulpine wrestled around with each other in the pool for a few minutes, until finally Krystal called a truce. "MERCY!"
Well, maybe not a truce exactly…
"Wanna' go to the hot tub? It's getting pretty chilly in here," Fox suggested.
Krystal nodded and they both climbed out of the pool. She stepped in slowly, acclimating her body to the soothing heat.
Fox walked in as if nothing was happening. It burned like hell, but he knew it was better to get used to it all at once and quickly. He lay back against the ledge and sighed with relief.
Krystal scooted over to him and cuddled against his body. Fox put his arm around her shoulder and leaned his head on hers.
"You know," Krystal began, " we should definitely do this again. Very soon. I mean the Great Fox is a big ship. I'm sure we could spend more time together like this. Maybe even go back to Sauria and stay at Cape Claw for a few days with everyone?"
"That sounds great," Fox answered.
The two sat in silence for a while in deep thought, feeling the physical and spiritual comfort of the other's body against their own. They each shared a mutual thought and spoke it at the same time:
"I wish my parents could have met you."
The two looked at each other in surprise, and then looked away blushing. Fox spoke first. "Krystal? What were they like? Your mother and father I mean."
Krystal felt her eyes moisten a bit as she smiled in fond memory. "My father, Cobalt... He was truly a kind fox, the kindest soul I'd ever known. He taught me all I know about combat, survival, sufficiency. He was a bit taller than you, and had piercing blue eyes. His fur was a darker blue than mine, and it faded into areas of black. He used to play with me all the time when I was a child, when he wasn't hunting with the other men."
"And your mother?" Fox inquired.
"My mother, Sapphire, was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She had light blue fur, gorgeous fur, shapely ears and the most gentle, prettiest green eyes in the galaxy. She was compassionate, very gentle and feminine. She was always there keeping an eye on me, making me feel joy whenever I was in the deepest depression. She was the one who inspired me to look after others. She'd been a medical practitioner, the Cerinian parallel of a doctor."
Fox looked at her. "She must have been beautiful to have been your mother. And I can imagine your dad must have been an incredible combatant, the way you fight and all. Do you uh…think he would've liked me?"
"I know he would," Krystal smiled. "After everything you've done for me, you are definitely the only one my father would feel safe with entrusting my well-being to. And my mother and I were very much alike. I love you, and she definitely would have adored you."
"Thanks, Krystal," Fox spoke with a calm joy.
"What about your parents Fox? The other day, when you were making breakfast, I could've sworn I saw you smiling with a tear in your eye. Were you thinking about them?"
Fox blushed and turned his head to the side a bit. "I was thinking about my mother.
Vixy McCloud. Cooking reminded me of when she was still alive when I was little kid. She'd make breakfast for all three of us every morning and she was a beautiful vixen. She did for me what your mom did for you. If there was a storm, she'd make the sun rise with a kiss."
Krystal gave him a tight hug, not of romance, but of sincere love and care. "Um, Fox? I've wondered for a long time. I've heard traces of it now and then from the others, but didn't really want to ask you before." Krystal was a little afraid of Fox's reaction and took a deep breath. "What was your father like?"
It was Fox's turn to feel a little solemn…. The memories vividly appeared in his mind as they did so many nights of his life.
"My father's name was James McCloud," he said quietly.
"Fox?" Krystal spoke.
"He was the greatest hero in the Lylat system, and the greatest fox I've ever known. He taught me from when I was small all I know about fighting, shooting a blaster, flying the Arwings- everything. He was a kind man, always out to do the right thing, no matter what the cost. But I guess we didn't know how great a cost that would be..."
"What do you mean?" Krystal asked attentively.
"My father pursued Andross during his second assault on the Lylat system, eight years before you and I met. He was betrayed by Pigma. I don't know if you knew, but that fat piece of shit used to be part of the team in its early days. And ultimately, my dad was killed by Andross. Peppy barely got out of there alive. But somehow… in the end, my father ultimately helped me avenge his own death."
Her ears jolted up.
"Wait! You told me that you were by yourself when you fought Andross ten years ago, the last time we were on the subject," Krystal interjected.
Fox looked at her quietly, then sighed. If there was anyone who deserved to know, it was her. And so he took in a deep breath. This would certainly be a night for firsts…
"Krystal… I have a secret. I never told anyone, not even Peppy about this."
He paused for a moment as he let the memories form in his head. "When I took on Andross, 10 years ago, it was just the two of us, at the core of his lab in Venom. I destroyed enough of him to reveal his true form, a large, bulging brain mass. Don't ask how cuz that one escaped me too. And this was before I fought him in Sauria's orbit when you first saw him. He had a sensitive point towards the back… the cerebellum, I think? And I took it out with my lasers. Then…."
The massive head shook in pain as the piercing blue hyper lasers struck it in it's eyes. Andross roared with pain. His flesh started to burn and melt away, and he seemed to explode from within. Left standing in the aftermath of the explosion was a giant tentacle shaking brain. From it, two eyeballs floated, held to the brain by chains of pure energy.
"Only I have the brains to rule Lylat!" was the brain's remark, a pitiful pun that still held destructive meaning.
Fox looked at him from inside the cockpit, and since he still had eyebrows, he could more than match the glare of Andross's electrically linked eyes. For all he had done, he would die tonight. Fox would make sure of it. "So Andross, you show your true form."
The determined pilot adjusted his wings to all-range mode. Fox hit the boost and flew forward. With only a second to spare, Fox launched a burning red smart bomb between the eyes and detonated it, turning them into cinders. The brain roared with pain and teleported behind Fox, trying to hit him with bombs and capture his Arwing in his tentacle grasp. The hero pulled a quick somersault and fired like mad at the brain's soft, vulnerable cerebellum until it exploded. The brain seemed to pause.
Despite having no mouth, it psychically roared out to Fox, "If I go down, I'm taking you with me!"
Andross detonated himself in a massive explosion. Fox's Arwing rumbled as it started to get caught in the blast. Feeling that his position was one that he couldn't escape, he felt a great fear, and screamed. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!"
Fox could only sit in his cockpit and wait for his death to come. His only comfort was the thought that his death had served his purpose. Things remained silent.
…. "Don't ever give up, my son," came a voice through the silence.
Fox's ears twitched and he blinked. He'd know that voice anywhere. "F-Father!"
The path became clear as Fox saw an Arwing in front of him. An older model… the only person who could've had one was-! It couldn't be!
"Follow me, Fox."
He shook off the fear, and in that instant he knew. He knew it was him. He followed him through the smoke, and could see the tunnel labyrinth. He didn't say another word. Somehow, he just knew…
Fox felt the explosions around him, the heat of the burning fires and the force of the exploding lab. His adrenaline soared as his fear dissolved. He set his boosters to the max and chased after his father's spirit. They were coming up on a fork in the tunnel system.
James hung a quick right turn. "This way, Fox," he said calmly.
Fox felt nervous and almost lost sight of James on one of the turns. Fox managed to get a glimpse of him and made it, but James had already gotten to the next turn. The younger McCloud felt fear grip him. What would he do? If he made the wrong turn he would die.
"Never give up. Trust your instincts."
Fox closed his eyes and forced himself to calm down. He remembered the course that brought him there in the first place. He made a right turn and found himself facing the tunnel's exit. He had made the right choice!
He followed James and pushed his speed to the maximum.
"You've become so strong, Fox." …
"Da da DA-DUM. Da da DA-DUM! Da da Dum DUM. Da da Dum DUMMMM!" Fox got his mind caught up in the memory and started to hum some background music.
"Um Fox," Krystal started to ask. "What are you doing?"
"Huh? Oh! Sorry about that. But, uh…, yeah. That's what happened. In order to save us, he was there that day, and he helped me escape the explosion. If it weren't for him, I wouldn't be here. I've wondered every night since how it was possible… but somehow I just knew… I just knew it was him.
Krystal stayed silent, trying to absorb all Fox had said and think about it. She couldn't think of how to respond to such a tale.
"Fox, I….wow. I…I just….I mean that you….and he….wow," was the only thing Krystal could come up with.
It finally began to clear a little bit and she started to find the words. "Fox," she began, "I can't say anything else except that I'm honored and truly grateful, that you would confide in me, something like this."
She felt tears form in her eyes again. Fox lifted his finger to her chin and brought her eyes to his own. "It's because I love you," Fox said as he looked at her with a gentle smile. She could see that his eyes were moistening as well. Krystal just looked at him and felt her throat tighten. She began to form a smile. It wasn't passionate, romantic or seductive. It was a smile of pure love, gratefulness and joyful relief, the relief that she felt from Fox's trust in her. The tears ran down in her face, quickly and abundantly, and the same began to happen to Fox.
"Krystal…"
"Fox…"
The two exclaimed the other's name as they locked in an embrace. Each held the other so tightly as to never let go. The love between them had just been proven to be the purest of any kind in that moment. After a minute or so, they both pulled back a little bit, still holding each other, so they could lock their eyes.
Neither so much as moved or said a word at first. Krystal then began to slowly lean forward. Her face looked nervous and hesitant. With little distance between their faces, Krystal curled her blue lips into a kiss and planted them against Fox's. Their eyes closed as they felt a new sensation. Fox and Krystal were both experiencing this new feeling.
It was as if they were experiencing their first kiss all over again, but it was somehow different. Things were brand new, yet clearer than before. A love so genuine, so beautiful that it could only be experienced by those with innocent hearts. Fox and Krystal's spirits were linked now, two entities not complete without each other. They saw that now and forever, they would be one, that they would be there for the other, through the good, through the bad, and all in between, they were linked by love in mind, body and spirit and nothing could break it.
The moment could have perhaps lasted longer, but Fox began to notice that the night lights were starting to turn off.
"Hey Krystal. It's getting' pretty late. Let's get to our room and catch our forty winks, eh? Fox said as he helped her out of the hot tub.
"Sounds good, Fox," she answered gently.
They headed back to their room, arm in arm. Fox slid the card through the lock and opened the door to the calm quiet room. There was a perfect full moon outside and I managed to light up the entire room somewhat. Krystal walked to the bathroom and closed the door behind her. Fox remained in the bedroom.
Less than a minute later, Krystal came out wearing her small night dress. It hung roughly five inches above her knees. It was a shining, glossy cream color and looked beautiful. Krystal set her clothes on a side chair and saw Fox doing something she wasn't expecting. He was setting up two extra blankets, one on the floor like a mattress, and another for, well, a blanket.
A couple seconds passed and Fox noticed her shadow. He turned to see her and swallowed almost a metric gallon of saliva when he saw Krystal's apparel. He was just wearing his regular boxers and light gray sleeping shorts.
"What's up?" he asked her after another two seconds.
"Not much. But um…. what are you doing?" she asked, already sure of the answer.
"Oh. I'm setting up an improvised bed. You're taking the main bed," he said sweetly.
Krystal chuckled to herself and shook her head. "Fox?"
"Yes Krys'?"
" I'd like you to join me in that bed, you know."
All of Fox's muscles froze. His ears shot up, his eyes widened and his heart began to pound like a drum.
" Er…Krystal. I…I couldn't. I mean, for how long we've known each other, we haven't shared much other than a couch, and that was sitting. Don't you think it's a little early to share a bed?"
"Oh come on. You'll like it. Besides, it's cold out. I could sure use someone to keep me warm and toasty."
"Well…I…no, no. Sorry Krystal but I wouldn't feel right. But what I can do..," Fox cut himself off as he dragged the blankets next to the bed.
"..is set up right next to the bed. How's that?"
Krystal sat on the bedside and faced him. "You're no fun."
With that, she grabbed a pillow and slugged his head. He definitely didn't see that coming. Krystal laughed and tried to crawl backwards, but Fox shook off the hit and grabbed her ankle. Krystal fell forward onto the soft bed and laughed some more. She then began to burst out with wild laughter.
"AAAH! NO! FAHAHAHAHAHAX! STOP! STOP! IHIHIHIHIHIHIT TICKLES! NO! STOP IT! AAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
Fox had one arm wrapped around her ankles and was deviously tickling Krystal's light-blue feet swiftly, for the second time, except now he didn't have the underwater disadvantage.
Krystal managed to shake herself free and jumped on Fox. The two started to playfully wrestle, but more in a canine manner. They were rolling on the ground, trying to pin the other and bite the other slightly on the ear. Krystal's growl almost turned on Fox as much as her purr. Fox had Krystal pinned, but she had her fangs grasped onto Fox's ear.
"Eyuh gib uf?" Krystal mouthed through her teeth.
Fox growled and shook his ear loose. Krystal started snapping at it while Fox started to nibble her neck. Krystal succumbed to the relaxing sensation and stopped the biting.
"Hmm. That feels good. I still won though," Krystal said as Fox continued nibbling. He rolled off and slowed his heartbeat down. She was doing the same, and becoming a little drowsy. After a minute, Fox got one knee and picked up Krystal. He carried her to the bed and gently lay her down. Krystal watched him lovingly as he began to pull the blanket over her body.
"You're really a sweetheart, ya' know that?" Krystal asked, with a laugh.
"I've got a good teacher," Fox said with his own chuckle.
He kneeled and kissed her lips good night.
The sleepy fox turned to get in his little spot but Krystal put her hand on his shoulder.
"Fox? Would you mind just…staying with me until I'm asleep. Please?"
The young vulpine laughed to himself. There was no way in Corneria that he could say no to that voice. He climbed into bed next to her. "All right. Just until you're asleep."
Krystal was satisfied with his answer. "Thank you."
She motioned backwards and snuggled against Fox's chest and neck. Fox put his arms around hers and wrapped them around to her front. He kissed her cheek gently, sweetly. He could feel her legs shiver a little bit, so he wrapped his tail around her thighs. He pulled the blanket high enough to cover her shoulders, while he kept her neck warm with his snout and body heat. All that had happened today summed up could not compare with the pleasure they felt right now.
She loved how it felt. She didn't say it often, but she secretly loved to think of him as her hero. It was bliss to her, to be held so tenderly in his arms. She loved how strong and secure he felt against her.
He was in love. That gorgeous, toned body… it was velvet to the touch, and her scent- he couldn't stop sniffing her with every breath. It was intoxicating. He loved protecting her, keeping her warm. He didn't need fame or praise like the galaxy always wanted to throw at him. All he wanted, all he needed, was to hold this woman in his arms, to never let go of her.
"I love you, Krystal," he whispered lovingly.
"I love you too, Fox," she chimed blissfully.
The lovers slept in each others' arms, under the full moon.