Guardians of Lylat

by Vantage77

Darkness is descending upon Lylat. In order to prepare for the coming storm General Peppy Hare issues a law that all mercenaries and select military members must attend the new Lylat Flight Academy to learn the new strategies of modern fighter combat, including a team Star Fox, then the entire situation becomes more interesting when a human team also attends. Multiple OC's

12. Chapter 12- New Developments

I'm Back Baby and with a big new chapter! Now let's get right into it!

Chapter 12: New Developments

: Papetoon airfield, 4 hours after the engagement:

(Reaper's POV)

Reaper sighed as he threw back another beer and tried, yet again, drown out Nightmare's drunken ramblings. The two of them along with Preacher and their students where all sitting at a well-known pilot bar on Papetoon. After the engagement in space was put to an end by the timely arrival of a small detachment from the 4th Cornerian Fleet which caused the enemy to turn and run, the pilots of the Cerinia Defense Core where able to meet up with their colony ships at the moon their people were going to inhabit. Although the terraforming process would take another couple of months to finish completely the process was well enough along the way for instructor to begin being put down. However in thanks to the CDC squadron's efforts they were allowed to celebrate their victory down on Papetoon with the cadets and the Cornerian fighter pilots that survived the engagement. Reaper himself was savoring the moment while he could before he had to give the Admirals, Civilian Senate, and General Hare of Corneria a debriefing, a task he was not looking forward to at all.

Thankfully none of the Cadets where injured in the battle, though their where a few close calls and Ashley was still rather shook up by her encounter with Fisherman team. The skill level of the human pilots had been on a level that Ashley was quite prepared to deal with at that point and she could only thank her family's ability to go into a hyper awareness blood rage that saved her life. When the rest of the cadets heard that Ash had fought against a human pilot and won, they immediately bombarded her with questions and wanting to know every detail. So far though she was making a very impressive attempt to ignore them and focus instead on the drink in front of her.

While the Cadets and the CDC had emerged from the battle with no casualties the same could not be said for the Cornerian Defense Force. The Cruiser that had gone down in the battle had taken with her at least two fifths of her crew and the other ships that had participated had also taken casualties. However it was the fighter and bomber squadrons that had taken a massive beating in the fight. Out of the 3rd fleets entire bomber wing only 7 pilots survived the battle having been spared only because the chaos of the battle had allowed them to go unnoticed by the roaming fighter craft and the anti-fighter gunners aboard the enemy ships. Still many of their friends could not say the same. The fighter squadrons themselves had taken grievous losses due largely to Fisherman team and the somewhat better pilots of the enemy. Reaper could only sympathize with the somber pilots who sat silently at their tables with far off looks, for the first time in their careers the pirates and mercenaries they had fought against where far superior pilots than they were and their squad mates had paid the ultimate price for that.

Despite the losses to the friendly forces Reaper was impressed with his cadets and was now just finishing updating his data-pad

Cadet Kills

Nick: 3

Isme: 2

Ilia: 4

Jasmine: 2

Ashley: 2

Wolf: 4

Lucas: 3

Falco: 3

Katt: 3

Fox: 5

Krystal: 5

Arya: 5

Reaper's gaze landed on the last name and pondered the female Cerinian. She was a member of the Cerinia Defense Core (CDC) and was apparently a highly skilled pilot. Reaper had learned about her from Nightmare who was apparently saved by the vixen and had been looking for her all day to 'pay back the favor'.

"Ah! There ya are lass!"

Speaking of Nightmares quest of the fair maiden, Reaper looked up and saw a 'slightly' intoxicated Nightmare approaching a slightly tipsy female CDC pilot who Reaper had to assume was Arya. The vixen had a lean, athletic build that was rather appealing and hard to obtain even for individuals in as well shape as combat pilots. Interestingly enough Arya seemed to have a reverse fur color to Krystal's being primarily white with blue. This had the effect of bringing attention to her generous breasts and also her purple eyes that where currently regarding Nightmare in confused interest.

"The names Nightmare and ye kinda saved my ass earlier taday so I figure it's me military duty to buy ya another drink. Barkeep another for the lass here!" Nightmare explained before grabbing the new beverage and handing it to Arya.

The vixen regarded the drink that resided in a rather large mug for a second or two before shrugging and downing the entire thing in one go. Nightmare's jaw hung open before a dreamy expression came to his face.

"Now you're my kinda angel!" Nightmare announced before in a surprising move he closed in and kissed Arya full on the lips. Arya didn't seem to resist the humans action and instead returned it with vigor, turning the once one sided kiss into a full on make out session right there in front of the bar.

Reaper who was watching this whole thing was debating wither or not to stop the obviously intoxicated pair but in all honesty he remembered Nightmare's little stunt back when he was meeting with Fara and her father and thus decided that Nightmare needed to realize his bad habit himself. It was not revenge in the slightest.

As he noticed Arya and Nightmare heading for the exit Reaper's thoughts where broken up by the alarm on his communicator going off. Seeing the caller ID he immediately answered it.

"Reaper here"

"Is it true you met Fisherman Squadron?"

Reaper sighed "You saw the report I sent you Wraith"

"I know it's just a lot quicker than any of us expected. We weren't planning on confronting a human unit for some time."

Reaper nodded in all honesty he and the rest of Shadow team knew that it was only a matter of time before the cadets came across a human unit but that was intended to be at least another 6 months down the road. "I know Wraith but unfortunately our time table has been moved forward… How long would it take for you to get in contact with friend of yours?"

There was a silence on the other end of the call for a few seconds before Wraith responded "A couple of days, why?"

"The Phantom Trainer Craft aren't going to last us much longer if more human groups start showing up we need current Gen Human craft and Bravo 190 is just the man to get them."

"What are we offering in return?" Wraith asked in a hesitant voice. Bravo 190 was a hard man to impress even amongst weapon brokers.

"Getting that frigate of his moving." Reaper said as he remembered the rather nice frigate the man owned but couldn't get moving due to a lack of proper engine parts that Reaper had access to.

"I think he'll go for that." Wraith said after a few seconds of contemplation.

Reaper couldn't help but smile at the idea of getting behind the cockpit of his signature fighter again "Good, this is what I want exactly…"

(Nick's POV)

Nick was currently sitting at one of the many booths in the bar with Wolf, Jasmine, and Lucas. Ever since the mission had ended Wolf had seemed to accept them as acceptable pilots and was now freely conversing with them though not exactly friendly it was still a great deal better than it was previously. Throughout the conversation about the assembled pilots previous performance in the battle Nick had been glancing over at Ilia who was chatting with Katt, Miyu, and Preacher by one of the walls of the building and trying at the same time to work up the courage to approach her.

He had been meaning to thank her for clearing the enemy off his tail during the battle but couldn't seem to rally enough courage to say a simple thank you. It wasn't entirely his fault as the beautiful Leopard from Zoness was a stunner that had already attracted some attention at the bar. The leopards exotic spotted fur, even toned build and long wavy blond hair with white highlights where more than enough to catch a males attention and cause some to be intimated enough to stop most from approaching the beauty. However the largest deterrent in Nick's way was the cold demeanor the girl gave off, the look her attractive bright green eyes gave was enough to freeze most in their tracks and the harsh vibe she gave off stopped even the boldest of suitors. However the girl seemed more relaxed in the company she was currently in and Nick was hesitant at how she would react to his interruption.

"Just go for it pup." Came a gruff voice from across from him. Looking over Nick saw Wolf staring at him with an annoyed look.

"Huh?" Nick responded intelligently.

Wolf merely rolled his eyes "You've been eyeing that Leopard for almost the entire conversation. If you want to say something to her go up and say it." Wolf explained in an exasperated voice.

Nick grimaced and looked back at Ilia "I don't know what if she doesn't want me to interrupt?"

"Than she's a bitch and you can leave her alone with the knowledge that at least you attempted to thank her." Wolf stated in a matter of fact tone.

Nick thought about what Wolf had said and inwardly acknowledged his words. "Well than, I guess wish me luck." Nick announced before getting up and making his way over to Ilia's group.

(3rd Person POV)

As Nick got up and left Lucas looked to Wolf with a fake shocked expression "Wolf O'Donnell giving social advise?! What is the world coming to?" Lucas feigned despair as Wolf scowled at him.

"Shut it Lucas. Just because I don't like to socialize with others doesn't mean I don't know how." Wolf replied.

Lucas raised a brow "Oh is that why you still haven't even gone on a date like, ever?"

Wolf focused on his drink "Oh don't even start with me pup. I just haven't found the right one." Wolf stated before taking another gulp of his drink and ending the conversation while forgetting that the tables other occupant was listening intently and regarded him with a hopeful look.

(Ilia's POV)

Ilia was currently enjoying her conversation with Katt, Miyu, and Preacher in the corner of the bar. Normally she knew that she would be highly anti-social but thankfully the present company was easier for her to connect with. Miyu she had met a few times in her mercenary carrier when the two were hired by the same employer. Katt was much the same but with the acceptation that Katt was one of the only individuals she considered a good friend and would even hang out with her when the two where planet side together. Although it was her first time meeting preacher outside the class room the male human wasn't checking her out or belittling her skills and instead had complimented her flying. After that Ilia was able to start a pleasant conversation where the four of them traded stories from their mercenary days. Preacher was just finishing up a story of when he and Wraith had to take on a heavy frigate with nothing but the fighters lasers when someone cleared their throat behind her.

Turning around Ilia was met with a nervous looking Nick behind her. Ilia took a moment to regard the nervous young artic wolf before her. He was obviously there to get her attention and was apparently very nervous about doing so considering how he kept shifting his stance and glancing to the ground.

"Uh, hi Ilia sorry if I'm interrupting anything." Nick stated obviously unsure of how to begin with whatever he wanted to say.

"What do you want?" Ilia said in a cold tone. She inwardly cringed at his slightly hurt look but she had too much experience with bad/jealous comrades to act warm toward him.

Nick's ears flattened back down to his head when her heard her tone but pushed on regardless "Umm yeah I just wanted to thank you for saving me from that enemy fighter earlier. I may not be here if you didn't so I was wondering if I could somehow return the favor?"

Ilia for her part was rather stumped with how to proceed with what the young wolf had just said. She remembered saving him sure but she had never been thanked for saving a comrade before. Most either told her to stay out of their way or that she was somehow to blame for the enemy getting behind them in the first place. Now faced with someone who honesty was grateful for her action and wanted to find a way to thank her caused Ilia to become stumped.

"Ah… That's okay it was nothing, don't worry about it." Ilia stated trying to dismiss the question.

"I don't think so. You saved my life that's not nothing! I will pay you back somehow!" Nick stated rather fiercely which surprised the young Zoness feline.

"…I'll leave it to you then." Ilia responded with an unsure tone before returning to her conversation with Preacher.

Katt who witnessed the entire exchange gained a glint in her eye as she watched Nick head back to his table thinking of ways to repay her friend. "Oh I know just how to help you out with this little puzzle nick." She thought deviously, her mind already spinning a plan into motion.

(3rd Person POV)

Reaper was chuckling to himself as he watched Fox and Krystal dance. Falco and he had teamed up to coerce the slightly buzzed McCloud to ask Krystal to a dance. Which the famous idol would likely thank them for later as the two where most currently sharing a moment totally unaware that many in the room where recording the love struck couple that everyone in the Lylat system was waiting for.

As the two danced away Reaper noticed that his communicator started to buzz indicating a text message. Glancing down and opening the display Reaper grimaced at the message.

TO: Reaper

From: General Hare

Get to a Debriefing Room now. The civ council and the Admirals have some concerns about the latest developments. Also bring young Ms. Vulama with you, her presence has also been requested.

Prepare yourself Friend.

Reaper let out an involuntary sigh, of course the civilian council of Corneria wanted a chance to rip into him. Ever since the media started to try and portray him as a monster the public's opinion of him and the rest of Shadow team had reached an all-time low with some people even protesting for them to be kicked out of Lylat. With that kind of public outcry it was only a matter of time until some politicians jumped on the band wagon to sway some votes in their favor.

Knowing that it would only help their cause if he was late he headed over to Ashley who was sitting at the bar and taking sips of her drink. "Ash come with me we have to debrief the admirals."

Ashley looked over at him before nodding and following him out the bar and into the late Papetoon evening. Papetoon itself was slightly warmer than Corneria and reminded Reaper of the climate around Arkansas back on earth. The warm climate made Papetoon ideal for harvesting crops which is why agriculture was the key export for the world. It was only recently that the planet saw a population boom and was now quickly becoming one of the best places to live in the Lylat system. Rumors where that Papetoon was working to declare independence from Corneria and thus was building up its infrastructure and military capability.

The area that the pair were in thankfully had few people and they were easily able to make it across the street to the military base. After showing their IDs to the guard they were allowed in and quickly made their way toward the debriefing room.

"So, why exactly do I have to be here with you for this?" Ashley asked wondering why Reaper had asked her to come along.

"They told me to bring you along. I'm guessing that someone noticed you had joined in on the battle despite them instructing me otherwise." Reaper answered in a bland tone.

Ashley grew worried thinking her decision may have caused her mentor, and recent crush, to be in potential trouble as the two entered the bass's communications building and quickly entered a room labeled 'DEBRIEF'.

The two stood in a room surrounded by video screens and no furniture, obviously signaling for the two to remain standing. In the center of the room was a small square box with a slot in it which Reaper stepped up to and swiped a card he took from his left pocket. After this action the screens on either side and in front of them lit up. In total there appeared to be 8 separate screens, each showing different images.

The screen in front of them appeared the face of none other than General Peppy Hare, Leader of the Cornerian Military. The aged hare was obviously tired and had some stress lines creasing his brow but at the site of Reaper and Ashley he still managed to give a small tired smile. "Ah good Evening Reaper, Ms. Vulama. Thank you for responding quickly to our message." The old hare announced.

To his right was an older looking grizzly bear wearing a suit and tie, this was the President of Cornerian Diplomacy Hedrick Rollfon. The large man seemed pleasant enough and gave Reaper a nod in greeting "Yes and so soon after a battle no less. However we must ask a few questions pertaining to the battle. Please answer as accurately and honestly as you can." He explained kindly.

Someone to their left cleared his throat making Reaper and Ashley shift their attention to the man and where greeted by the site of Admiral Hood of Corneria's 1st Fleet. Many regarded the man as leader of the Cornerian Navy. "In your previous engagement…" Hood began "…the enemy showed exceptional piloting ability that frankly outclassed the pilots of our escort unit. I wanted you opinion on the matter."

Reaper nodded "Yes, I witnessed that myself. It was clear to me that the pilots we engaged near Papetoon had some form of modern air combat taught to them. It is my opinion that they were taught by another human unit." Reaper reported.

"So it's you Humans fault I lost a fifth of my entire air wing!" came the voice of Admiral Stratford of the Cornerian 3rd Fleet who was glaring daggers at Reaper. Now that Reaper looked all four of the other admirals where on their own monitors.

"Hah! Maybe if you spent more time teaching you pilots how to fight you wouldn't have lost so many." Came the cheerful and cool feminine voice of Admiral Halsey of Corneria's 4th Fleet. The attractive female wolf appeared to be sitting at a desk while looking at the camera and looked to be rather bored with the meeting already. The Admiral was resting her head on her hand and was looking off to the side slightly.

"What was that Halsey!?" Stratford shouted in indignation and outrage.

"That's Admiral Halsey. Don't forget Admiral that we are equals in rank." Admiral Halsey threw back in a warning tone while shooting a glair at where Stratford was displayed on her monitor.

"Just because the Lylat War created a power vacuum that allowed a female like you into a power position-" Stratford began only to get shut down by Admiral Hood.

"ENOUGH!" The old bulldog bellowed immediately silencing the two parties. "We have a more important matter to discuss than your twos personal history. As to the matter of human forces being present amongst the enemy, this was expected and is currently deemed Above Top Secret. So moving on, I for one would like to know how the enemy was able to track down the Cerinian convoy despite the fact that their movement was considered classified." At the Admiral's words the atmosphere became serious as everyone was thinking the same thing.

General Hare gave a sigh before shaking his head. "I know we are all thinking it so I'll be the one to say it. We have a mole somewhere high in the military chain of command. Because of this I have instructed our Blood Hound unit to begin an investigation on the identity of this traitor."

Reaper like the rest of those in the conference nodded in acceptance. The Blood Hound unit an elite intelligence unit that specialized at counter espionage work. They would likely have the identity of the culprit in a few weeks with that unit on the trail.

"In the meantime let's assess where we stand now, Admiral Terrace if you please." General Hare continued.

Admiral Terrace gave a nod before the 34 year old badger began to read off a data pad he held in his hand. "While the mission itself was a success in that all of the colony ships were able to reach Papetoon, the losses we took cannot be over looked. During the course of the battle we lost both the light cruiser Marauder and the frigate Rascal while the frigate Yellow Star was damaged beyond repair. The only two vessels that escaped relatively unscathed where the light cruiser Fire Fox and the frigate Lunar Hawk. Additionally out of the 60 aircraft we fielded only 18 survived the battle. Those squadrons will need to be rotated out and await refitting back on Corneria as they are combat ineffective." The Admiral paused as the rest of the individuals listening took in the news.

"On a more positive note the Fire Fox and Lunar Hawk are being awarded for gallantry in the field for their part in the battle and contributing to the enemies defeated. Speaking of the enemy the entire enemy force that was fielded consisted of four frigates, two heavy frigates, and a destroyer. Of those we managed to cripple the enemy destroyer thanks to Shadow team and sink two enemy frigates. Unfortunately the two remaining frigates and the pair of Heavy Frigates managed to escape when elements of the fourth fleet arrived." Admiral Terrance stated in a more positive voice.

"Ah, good than we can begin scavenging them for parts and melting down the metal to replace our losses!" A deer on the civilian council announced from the monitor to the right of Rollfon that showed the civilian council.

"I'm afraid that is impossible councilor" Admiral Halsey stated in a feigned regretful tone "You see the Cerinians where able to claim salvaging rights on the destroyer while Phoenix Arms claimed salvaging rights on the two frigates and any enemy fighters in the area."

"WHAT!? WHY DIDN'T YOU STOP THEM!?" A rather loud female howler monkey with a large forehead, green eyes, and a head of dyed pink hair shouted along with a few other councilors.

"My forces where busy recovering the crew of the Marauder and recovering our forces own wreckage." Halsey stated in a matter of fact tone while trying to restore her hearing to full functionality.

"As well the Cerinians where promised the three colony ships they used in order to establish good relations." Admiral Terrance stated with a grimace "They are a highly scientific people and can no doubt turn those ships into a large city if they wanted to. Or they could start building more fighter craft."

"Then it seems another ally may be going us in the stars soon." Admiral Hood announced.

"Yes or an enemy!" Admiral Stratford fired back.

"Enough! What's done is done. The Cerinians are doing what they believe they need to do to get back on their feet. Now I must ask, what is Phoenix Arms intention Mr. Phoenix?" General Hare asked in a questioning voice.

Reaper and Ashley looked to the far right monitor only to be greeted by the sight of Mr. Phoenix owner of Phoenix arms and Fara's father. The elder fox gave Reaper a smile in greeting before answering the Generals question. "Sorry to disappoint you General Hare but my company was contacted by an interested party to acquire the wreckage in the area and was promised a hefty sum to do so. If it reassures you we will send over any crew, files, or data that our combat teams and specialist find while doing so." Mr. Phoenix offered to which General Hare and the Admirals nodded while the civilian council agreed though obviously angry about the outcome.

"Very well then" A large pig council member stated as he stood up from his chair. Though it was somewhat difficult to tell due to the fact he was so short. "…moving on to the last piece of business we of the Civilian Council of Corneria would like for the human, Reaper to explain why Ms. Vulama's life was risked in the recent battle when we made it very clear she was not to participate!?" The swine questioned Reaper in an outraged voice.

Reaper just gave the pompous pig a smirk before replying "Actually 'honorable' councilor you merely stated in your written orders that I was not to allow Ms. Vulama to LAUNCH with us. If you where to look at the traffic control tower you will see that she launched well after we had already left."

"Be that as it may you still allowed her to partake in the battle!" the councilman retorted.

"Yes, I received no orders that she was not to go on an escort mission with us. So when she showed up suddenly and asked to join I, like any competent leader, allowed her to join us and added another fighter to my squadron." Tyler replied while insulting the council in a roundabout way. The council members seethed as technically Reaper did not do anything wrong while Rollfon, General Hare, and the Admirals looked on in mirth as the human belittled the politicians.

The councilman from before suddenly relaxed his demeanor before giving the human and Ashley a smug look. "Very well than if that is the case then apparently we need to make steps in order to prevent such a… miscommunication from ever happening again." The pig began in a smug voice.

Ashley for her part felt a feeling of dread as the pigs voice seemed confident and held a sense of arrogance which combined with the lecherous look he was sending her made her dread what he had in mind.

"As we are all aware Ms. Vulama is the last of the Vulama family an extremely old and influential family with considerable wealth and assets." The pig began in a matter of fact tone like he was trying to teach something to children "Because of this we need to make sure that Ms. Vulama will not be the end of her family line." Many in the meeting now knew what the swine was about to do. "So Ms. Vulama this council passed an edict that Ms. Vulama here is now subject to the Pack Law." The swine stated with a tone of finality.

Ashley's eyes widened, her ears lay back flat against her head, her legs began to tremble slightly, and her throat closed up as her world came crashing down. Pack law was an ancient practice dating back to a time when their ancestors hunted the land in groups for wild game. The Pack law basically allowed a single male to have multiple female's partners. Though it wasn't often seen some stilled adhered to the age old tradition however under special circumstances a person could be ordered to adhere to the old law as what was happening now.

"YOU CAN'T JUST GO AND ORDER HER TO MARRY SOME MARRIED LYLATIAN OUT OF THE BLUE!" Admiral Halsey shouted in indignation, all signs of boredom replaced by raw anger. As one of the few female officers in the Cornerian Navy she felt for the young wolf as if not for her rank she would likely be facing the same fate. Still didn't mean she wouldn't fight for Ashley's case.

"I agree don't you think it's rather inconsiderate to not take Ashley's own wishes into consideration." General Hare also came into the argument in Ashley's corner though much calmer than the Admiral.

Another member of the council a cat this time answered "Our decision is for the good of Corneria and it is final! Ms. Vulama will adhere to it or be forced into it!" the cat answered in an indignant and arrogant tone.

"Of course a list of suitable candidates will be compiled I believe my son has expressed an interest in the young Vulama after seeing her picture on that military propaganda paper." A sheep councilman stated.

"Of course he is! The young Vulama here is quite the catch with her family's wealth and her looks she would make a good wife for anyone. In fact I'm pretty sure I might even put my own named forward." The pig from earlier stated as he looked Ashley up and down like a steak. This statement was quickly met with voices of agreement as more and more councilors began to either put forth names or stripped Ashley naked with their eyes.

"Bastards aren't doing this for Corneria they're doing it to either get the Vulama fortune or into Ashley's pants!" Admiral Rachel Halsey thought angrily as she growled toward the display, a sentiment that was shared by Admiral Hood, Rollfon, and General Hare.

Admirals Terrance and Stratford remained silent though inwardly wondered if they should submit their own names to that list the councilors where making.

Ashley herself was slowly shrinking into herself more and more as the council went fourth bartering her off as if she was some item at an auction house. "Is this really what my life will be? Forced to be some slimy person's sex slave?" Ashley thought in despair.

"Enough" this single word delivered in such a cold threating tone cut through the conversations like sword threw flesh and causing all talk to cease as everyone's attention shifted to Reaper who had uttered it. The sight they were met with caused many to shiver in fear and Ashley soon realized why.

The usually cool and calm Reaper, was pissed.

Reaper stood where he had the entire time but somehow his posture gave off a feeling of impending malice and aggression. His face was set into a grime scowl however what stood out the most was his eyes. Reaper now had a pair of glowing golden eyes that had such a feeling of dread and death to them that many attempted to look away only to be held in place as Reaper's gaze seemed to lock onto all of them at once lock their own stare against their will. The look in Reaper's was that of someone having to dissect a disgusting and struggling insect that couldn't escape however it seemed the only ones that where effected by this was the council who were almost relieving themselves in fear. The others only felt a sense of foreboding and dominating aura from the human ace pilot.

General Hare, Mr. Phoenix, and Admiral Hood raised their brows in surprise at this new side of Reaper while Rollfon, Admiral Terrance, and Admiral Stratford shifted uncomfortably. However unbeknownst to everyone but her the reaction this display caused in Admiral Halsey was different from the others.

"Oh my! While this is certainly new. I never thought the human would have such a dominating presence that I could feel it through a communicator image!" The artic wolf thought as Reaper continued to drill holes into the heads of the council with his eyes. Unconsciously Rachel began to rub her long legs together before realizing what she was doing. "I-I'm getting turned on by him!? B-but nobody has ever tur-" Rachel's thoughts where interrupted as Reaper begin to speak.

"… Ash, what do you want to do?" Reaper spoke without turning his gaze from the council.

"H-huh?" Ashley responded. Being in the same room as Reaper made his dominating aura much more powerful and if Ashley wasn't in a state of shock and confusion she would likely have jumped the human there in front of the admirals as her instincts demanded her.

"You have three options in this scenario. One you go along with their plan and marry some ass who will likely treat you as little more than a sex object. Two you try and fight their decision and are forced into sexual servitude in order to have kids. Or finally three you deny them, desert the Cornerian Military and flea to Venom, where I can guarantee that you will be accepted after I tell Lord Bowman." Reaper explained.

Ashley considered his words and while if she had to choose would defiantly take the third option but couldn't bear the thought of disgracing her family name by deserting. "…Is there really no other way?" She asked in a pleading voice.

Surprisingly it was Rollfon that answered "Actually there is" the old grizzly announced causing Ashley's attention to turn to him. "Basically you are still allowed to choose your mate so instead of going with the councilor's choices of individuals who are already in the Pack Law you can pick someone who isn't and thereby start a new pack." Rollfon explained as Ashley began to have a ray of hope "However realize that whoever you chose will be forced into pack law by you so he will be expected to take other partners. If memory serves at least 5 and no more than 7. Also the individual has to be a male of good standing and having to have sufficient political power as well as enough wealth to take care of you and six others excluding himself." Rollfon finished explaining.

Ashley felt her hope dwindle as it sounded like the list of potential candidates weren't very broad with those guidelines. "W-who exactly fits those requirements?" Ashley stated in a halting voice. This was it for her the only path to happiness for her was with someone on this list.

Rollfon pulled out a data pad and began to type away for a few minutes before answering "Well there are only a few really. First there is the obvious Fox McCloud."

"No, I can't pick Fox. He is a nice guy and all but he is dead set on Krystal and she is dead set on him. I can't get in the way of that and besides Krystal would kill me." Ashley threw out that option.

"Well next is your classmate Edmund-" Rollfon was interrupted by Ashley.

"NO! Absolutely not! That's even worse than having one of the councilors." Ashley threw out that idea immediately. She could barely tolerate the lion now much less if she married him!

"Well then there is Ralph Bowerstone." Rollfon continued.

"Who?" Ashley asked not knowing who they were talking about but finding the name familiar for some reason.

"He is the heir to a rather prominent private military empire called Hydra and is their official Liaison. I believe you know him as Preacher or Shadow 4." Rollfon explained.

Ashley was surprised that the positive human instructor that she had fought alongside only a few hours ago was a potential suitor for her, but she also got some vibes from him and Miyu. She also didn't know the human all that much but so far it was the better option but for now she decided to continue. "I'll think about it anyone else?"

Rollfon nodded before looking down at the data pad again "The last potential candidate is standing next to you. Reaper here is actually the candidate with the best credentials."

"WHAT!?" Ashely, Admiral Halsey, Mr. Phoenix, and the council shouted in shock. Reaper for his part just scowled as his eyes turned back to normal and his aura evaporated, much to Admiral Rachel's secret displeasure.

"How can this Human possibly be a better candidate then McCloud or one of our choices!?" A councilor asked in disgust.

Rollfon simply glanced at the councilor before returning his attention to the data pad "For one Reaper here is an exceptional pilot with over a decade of combat experience and 226 confirmed kills. He commands one of the most feared squadrons in the galaxy. He also holds a substantial amount of powerful political power as he is the liaison of Venom and the VDF along with the liaison of human controlled space. He also has access to knowledge and technology that frankly makes ours look like we are back hunting in packs for game. On top of all that, Reaper has a vast amount of wealth due to his extensive mercenary career that when converted into our currency comes out to 122,163,698,227.98 credits. In other words he is the richest bachelor and most influential one in Lylat has ever had and likely ever will." Rollfon explained before putting away his data pad while everyone else simply stared at Reaper in shock.

Reaper for his part shrugged "Was paid for every kill and ship destroyed… and looted a few pirate ships… and ransacked a few treasure worlds with Death and Rook a few times."

The silence continued for a few minutes until Ashley found her voice. She knew who she wanted to pick and he was the one person here who would stand up for her wishes, who trusted her, who enabled her to achieve her dreams. Oh course she would pick Reaper, a choice she might have made further down the road even if this whole pack law thing hadn't happened. "Um… Reaper I know we don't really know each other that well and I know it will draw you into my mess but…" Ashley trailed off as she looked pleadingly into Reaper's eyes.

Reaper for his part gazed back into Ashley's desperate face and internally struggle with himself. He had never come to the Lylat system expecting to find some romantic interest form the locals and while he still found the fact they had some animal traits was surprised he wasn't to mindful of the idea of forming a relationship with one. Now faced with taking multiple however threw him for a loop and if it wasn't for the fact that saying no would condemn Ashley to a disgusting fate he would have said no in a heartbeat. However he had admittedly grown rather fond of the fiery female wolf that's midnight black hair and bright blue eyes seamed to catch his attention whenever he walked into the same room as her. The girl was beautiful sure a goddess even but what truly stood out for Reaper was her caring personality and take no shit attitude as well as her drive to achieve her dreams bought her his respect and admittedly his affection.

Knowing all this and seeing the female wolf pleading with him now so desperately he could only bare one choice. "… If this is what you truly want Ash then I'm ok with it. We may not know each other that much but time can fix that." Reaper stated in a kind tone causing Ashley to actually yip in delight before crashing into him in a hug while crying tears of joy and relief before realizing what she just did in front of everyone and immediately apologized while blushing.

Everyone but the Council was rather amused at the display while the council fumed at the fact they couldn't have the attractive Vulama. However many of them where now aware of just how much power the human male had, they had daughters after all.

"Well I think that is enough excitement for today. Reaper I expect you and your student's back on Corneria in a few days where I can congratulate them personally. I hereby call this meeting adjourned." General Hare announced as his image disappeared followed quickly by those of Admiral Hood, Admiral Terrance, Admiral Stratford, President Rollfon, and the plotting Council.

Admiral Halsey looked over at Ashley sympathetically "My apologies for not being able to fully stop those dirt bags Ms. Vulama or is it Mrs. Vulama now?" the Admiral joked much to Ashley's embarrassment.

"It's alright Admiral thank you for standing up for me and doing what you could." Ashley nodded before the Admiral nodded and signed off while unknowingly to the two making plans to visit the pair soon and needing a change in underwear. This left the pair with a still slightly surprised Mr. Phoenix who shook off his shock before addressing the two.

"Well though it was forced, I guess a congratulations is in order. Though do make sure to tell me when you make it official." Mr. Phoenix stated before focusing on Reaper "By the way we are examining the data you sent us from the battle and are integrating it into the new designs the finished product should be ready in maybe a month."

Reaper nodded in acknowledgement before Mr. Phoenix gave him a pointed look "I have to go tell Fara of these latest development and she will likely be a little angry. You better take care of her Reaper as I will be watching you before my little girl joins you two."

"Wait what?" the pair said but Mr. Phoenix cut the line leaving the two there to contemplate his words and the new direction their lives had taken before going to their separate rooms to retire for the night.

: The next Morning:

(Nightmare's POV)

Nightmare awoke the next day after the party with a splitting head ache and no idea what had happened after the 3rd bottle or scotch. He remembered vaguely meeting the pilot that saved his life in the battle near Papetoon but not the details.

Recognizing the feel of a bed beneath him he stretched out while sill under the covers in order to get the soreness out of his limbs… until he discovered someone else's limbs. Nightmare froze where he was and open his eyes before slowly looking to his left and seeing a very attractive female Cerinian in his bed sleeping with him.

What many didn't know about Nightmare other than a select few was that he was a fairly religious man in that he gave thanks to the lord and promised to never have sex out of wedlock until the night after he married a nice girl in a church. Now however as Nightmare stared at the back of Arya's sleeping form that dream of the future shattered into small microscopic pieces and the words out of wedlock echoed in his head.

"FORGIVE ME LORD FOR I HAVE SINNED!" Nightmare shouted for the lord's forgiveness as her bowed to the sky and threw his hands up. "What the hell was I thinking going for three bottles in the first hour!? WHY DIDN"T YOU STOP ME REAPER!?" he thought bowing repeatedly to the sky. "PLEASE OH MERCIFUL FATHER FORGIVE YOUR CHILD FOR I HA-" Nightmare was interrupted by a devastating punch to the kidney by a groggy Arya who was just waking up.

"Oh pipe down would you. I really shouldn't have gone for a fourth bottle in the first hour. Why didn't Cyanea stop me? Wait…WHO THE FUCK ARE YOU AND WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY ROOM!?" Arya yelled as she realized there was a male human in the same bed as her. Suddenly the vixen gave a deadly glare "What Did You Do!?" She said with a threating tone that left Nightmare totally flabbergasted at what to say.

…

…

"I don't know?" Nightmare asked unsurely.

"GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY ROOM YOU SICK BASTARD! I'LL KILL YOU!" Arya shouted as she made to attack Nightmare who bolted for the door and exited the room before slamming the door shut.

After taking a moment to catch his breath Nightmare realized that he still had all his clothes on causing him to have a smidgen of hope before bolting toward where he knew Reaper's room was to find out what happened last night. Before he made it all the way however he ran into Preacher who was making his way toward the hotel they were staying's exit. Before he could ask any questions however Preacher saw him and spoke up before he could.

"Talk about your wild night later we have work to do. Reaper's married and been told he has to have multiple partners, Fox and Krystal got a couples moment, we have to be back on Corneria in 6 hours, we have two new students coming with us, Shadow team is getting new aircraft along with the cadets eventually, and I'm recovering from a wicked hangover from the amazing celebratory party we through for Reaper's unofficial marriage to Ashley and Krystal and Fox finally declaring that they are in a relationship." Preacher listed off quickly while purposefully not mentioning the fact that Nightmare had made out with Arya but passed out just as the two got to their bed and leaving the door open for Reaper to see them and close it later. It was fun watching Nightmare sweat a bit.

Nightmare just stood there with his mouth opened in stunned disbelief as he watched Preacher move toward the exit, all the while a single thought went through his head "WHAT THE LIVING FUCK HAPPENED LAST NIGHT!?"

And chapter! Finally that was a huge chapter I just put out their but a lot of developments where scheduled to occur in this one. Just so you guys are aware if it wasn't clear Nightmare did not have sex with Arya. Anyway you guys now know that Admiral Rachel Halsey has the hots for Reaper who is now engaged to Ashley. Fara also wants to be with Reaper along with Fate who is going to be shocked at this development between her best friend and her crush. There are two new students for the academy and there is apparently a spy in the Cornerian Military.

Well till next time Stay Frosty and don't forget to review!