Starfox: Rise from the Ashes

[Cavemonkynick]

      Star Fox

      Rise from the Ashes

      Chapter 1: Recollection and New Beginnings

     

      Fox McCloud sighed as he stared into the vast reaches of space that his ship, the Great Fox, was drifting through. Fox was an ace pilot and the leader of the former Star Fox Squadron. His original team was assembled after his father, James, was betrayed and supposedly killed by a teammate named Pigma Dangar on a mission to destroy the tyrant of Venom, Andross. Fox let his memories wash him away. Not long after James disappeared, Fox�s mother, Anna, was diagnosed with cancer. Fox thought he was going to lose her. However she persevered and shortly after Fox defeated Andross she defeated her cancer. She still lived in Corneria, the capital of the Lylat System. Everything seemed to be running smoothly but, for reasons known only to him-self, Fox disbanded the team.

      Falco Lombardi was almost eager to leave. Star Fox was the thrill of a life-time but he�d never admit it. He had a reputation to keep after all. He had hardened after his parents, Sam and Cindy, were killed in a lab explosion and he only allowed a few to see his true colors; those included being Fox and his parents who took Falco in, and a girl named Katt Monroe, Falco�s old flame. Falco was an ace pilot and was at home in the skies. He preferred to leave all the ground work to Fox.

      Peppy Hare led a life of legacy. He graduated top of his class and went straight into the service realizing his dream of becoming a pilot. He married his school sweetheart Vivian and they had one daughter name Lucy, Peppy�s pride and joy. Later on, Peppy who was now the lead of his squadron, decided to take his chances on a new recruit, James McCloud. Peppy quickly took a shine to James and became a mentor to him, which is why James was insistent on having Peppy along when he was asked to investigate Venom. After the disappearance of James, Peppy became a �Second Father� and mentor to Fox. However tragedy struck when Vivian succumbed to her family�s history of heart failure. Comforted by the fact that it was a peaceful passing, Peppy was able to continue flying with Fox. Not long before Fox disbanded the team, General Pepper fell ill and he recommended Peppy for the job. Peppy now commanded all of the Cornarian forces.

      Slippy Toad was not known for his flying. He had always been the technical brains of the operation. Slippy and Fox met back at the Academy and they were fast friends. Fox knew a little about the science behind his Arwing, but Slippy could take one apart and put it back together again in his sleep. Their close friendship caused Slippy to be more reluctant to leave. But he trusted Fox�s instincts, having saved his tail more than once, and went home to Aquas, where it�s said he found love.

      And then there was Krystal. Krystal had lost touch with her past. Her parents had disappeared when she was young so she set out to find them. During her search, she responded to a distress signal on Saria, more commonly known as Dinosaur Planet. When she arrived, she was captured and used by Andross to channel the Krazoa Spirits and revive himself. Fox freed her and defeated Andross�again. Krystal decided to join the team and despite her better judgment, fell in love with Fox. However, they never stopped and discussed their true feelings, so when Fox disbanded the team, she was heartbroken.

      �Krystal, you�ve got to get away from me.� Fox told her.

      �Fox, please don�t do this.� She pleaded through the tears.

      �My mind�s made up. I�m so sorry Krystal.� his voice broke and he had to turn away to hide his own tears.

      �Fine!� Krystal shouted and ran from the room. Fox slid to his knees and buried his head in his hands.

      �What have I done?� He said and began sobbing.

      Fox tore himself away from his memories. R.O.B. the navigation robot he had inherited from his father had brought a distress beacon to his attention.

      �It appears to be Falco.� Rob said.

      �Put him onscreen.� Fox replied. Falco appeared on the main viewing screen.

      �Fox, get your tail out here!� he yelled in clear frustration of the situation.

      �What�s going on?� Fox said.

      �I�m not really sure, but whoever they are, they mean business.� There was an explosion and the communication feed cut out.

      �Prep my Arwing, now!�  Fox said to Rob and headed for the launch bay. He hopped in his Arwing and quickly ran through the diagnostics Rob had run. Everything checked out. The comm. channel crackled to life.

      �Fox, where are ya man?� Falco�s voice came over the TEAMCOM. It was a frequency reserved for the Star Fox team.

      �I�m coming, keep your shorts on!� Fox called back.

      �If you don�t hurry my shorts are gonna be all that�s left!�

      �Lift-lock released.� an automated voice informed Fox.

      �Rob launch, now!� Within a split second Fox was propelled into Cornarian air-space. He was about to ask for a heading when Falco�s flier, the Sky-Claw, streaked by with four enemy ships in hot pursuit. Fox joined the chase and quickly disposed of the ships.

      �Well it�s about time!� Falco said.

      �What�s your status? Fox asked.

      �Good to see you too.� Falco replied.

      �Sorry, I�ve been alone with a robot for about a year now.�

      �Understandable. My shields are almost completely depleted.�

      �Head back to the Great Fox and contact Slippy. This is not gonna be easy.�

      �Got it.� Falco peeled off and headed for the landing bay and Fox reentered the fray. He had a strong start, but before long he was overrun.

      �Man, what�s wrong with me today!?� Fox said. His shields were dropping fast. �Get off me!�

      Suddenly there was a streak of plasma fire and the enemy fighters were gone.

      �Looks like you could use a hand, pup.�

     

      Chapter 2: Unexpected Help

     

      �Wolf? Is that you?�

      Wolf O�Donnell was, to Fox, a traitor. He was James� right hand man. But after his disappearance Wolf joined the Venom army. After the fall of Andross, Wolf assembled his own team, Star Wolf. It consisted of Wolf, Leon Powalski, and Panther Caruso. They were a rouge bunch of bounty hunters and a force to be reckoned with although they had never defeated the Star Fox team. Despite their differences, when worse came to worse they had worked together. This was apparently another one of those times, weather Fox liked it or not.

      �Sorry to barge in but I couldn�t watch that anymore.� Wolf said.

      �Do you just sit around and watch me all the time?� Fox asked.

      �I�ll explain later. So what�s the plan?�

      �We head back to the Great Fox and regroup. Rob track down Peppy� and Krystal.�

      Back on the Great Fox, Fox and Wolf docked their fighters and, after a very awkward elevator ride, arrived on the bridge.

      �Rob, status� Fox said and began pacing.

      �I am still unable to establish communications with Peppy, but I have succeeded in contacting Krystal.� Rob reported.

      �Put her on-screen.� Krystal appeared on the screen. Fox stopped pacing.

      �Krystal�

      �Hello Fox.� Krystal said. Her face was void of any emotion but her voice was thick with pain. This struck hard on Fox.  He tried to speak but couldn�t find the words, only adding to the discomfort of the whole situation. He turned to Wolf and Falco.

      �Can you guys give us a minute?� He asked.

      �Sure,� Falco said and he and Wolf left the bridge. As soon as the door closed Krystal broke the silence.

      �So Fox, what made you come back?� Her voice was cold now. Fox knew this was going to be hard but he wasn�t prepared for this.

      �Krystal,� now his voice was cold too, �I know I hurt you but,� Krystal cut him off.

      �Just tell me why Fox!� she began to cry.

      �You think this was easy for me?!� now Fox was yelling too.

      �You turned you back on me!�

      �That�s only because I didn�t want you to see me broken!�

      Outside, Falco and Wolf were listening at the door when Slippy walked up.

      �What�s goin on?� He asked.

      �Lover-boy in there is tryin to patch things up with Krystal.� Wolf said.

      �Will you two be quiet?� Falco said, �I�m trying to hear!�

      �Please just let me explain.� Fox said and began pacing again. �I-I thought I had everything figured out but when you�re alone with a robot in the middle of space you really have time to think and when I got to thinking and I realized just how much my life has fallen apart. The media hounds my every step. I can�t even dock to restock on food without being stampeded and when I�m not fighting off hordes of ravenous reporters I�m stuck in a tin-can with a robot whose habit of nagging overrides his logic circuits causing him to constantly remind me just how bad I messed things up and,� Fox�s voice broke and he stopped pacing. He couldn�t hold back the tears any longer. �I need you Krystal.� The bridge was silent as Fox had to take a second and compose himself enough to talk.

      �All I ask for,� Fox continued, �is a chance to make up for the stupid mistake of pushing you away and hurting you.�

      �Fox� I-� Krystal started but was cut off by the bridge door opening.

      �Slippy!� Falco yelled, �You leaned on the button!� Rob broke in before Fox could say anything.

      �Fox, I have located Peppy but his situation is� unsettling.�

      �What are you talking about?� Falco asked welcoming this interruption.

      �Peppy has been trapped by a cave-in of the building he chose to take refuge in. He is physically unharmed but the area he is in is not receiving proper ventilation.�

      �Meaning�?� Slippy said.

      �It means he�s going to suffocate nimrod.� Wolf said

      �How much time to we have Rob?� Fox asked.

      �Approximately thirty to forty-five minutes.� Rob informed them.

      �I�m going to have to go ground-side for this one.� Fox said and the pacing resumed once more.

      �You want a hand?� Wolf asked.

      �No,� Fox replied. �I�m gonna need you and Falco in the air covering me�

      �Fine with me, I prefer the air� Falco said.

      �Slippy, you find a way to take these things out.�

      �You bet Fox. It�ll feel good to be back in the lab again.�

      �I�m coming to help.� Krystal said. This stopped Fox in his tracks. �I feel like we should sort this out face-to-face.�

      �Me too, and thank you,� Fox took a breath and composed himself. �Alright, we don�t have much time so we need to move, now� he said. �Rob, is Falco�s ship fit to fly?�

      �Affirmative, the hull damage has been repaired and the shields are at eighty percent.� Rob replied.

      �You work fast.� Wolf commented.

      �Prep all ships for launch. Hang in there Peppy, we�re coming.� Fox said.

      Fox, Falco, and Wolf left the bridge and, after another awkward elevator ride, arrived in the hanger, hopped in their ships, and took off. Fox activated his heads up display, or H.U.D., and told Falco and Wolf to do the same. The HUD came out is his head set which had three prongs that went around the sides and top of his head. The actual HUD was a transparent plastic-like material that displayed vital tactical information. It now displayed a timer that read fifteen minutes and forty-five seconds. This was the absolute worst case scenario, and possibly all the time Peppy had left.

      By the time Fox made it to the building that Peppy was trapped in the timer said nine-seventeen. It took seven minutes to dig out the doorway and as soon as he stood in it a stray beam of energy fire hit him square in the back. The next thing he knew he was face-down on the ground. He heaved himself onto his knees and looked up only to find a very surprised and concerned Peppy.

      �Fox! You ok?� Peppy asked helping him to his feet.

      �I dunno.� Fox replied through gritted teeth. �It doesn�t feel good, that�s for sure.� Fox�s wrist communicator blipped telling him of an incoming message. He flipped it open.

      �Fox here, go ahead.�

      �Fox, you ok?� Wolf asked.

      �I�m fine.� Fox said. He tried to walk but a jolt of pain forced him, screaming to his knees. He heard Krystal gasp over the comm. Despite the pain, a wave of relief washed over Fox. �She came� he thought and smiled to himself. He shook it off though thinking Peppy might think he lost it.

      �It looks bad. He�ll bleed out at this rate. I�m getting him to the hospital.� Peppy reported.

      �Great.� The feed was silent for a moment, then.

      �Get him patched up. Sippy thinks he�s found a way to take these things out. We can handle it.� Falco came over the TEAMCOM. �We don�t wanna lose ya man.� Fox had to smile whether Peppy thought he was crazy or not.

      �Thanks Falco. That means a lot. Fox out.� Fox said and closed his communicator. �Let�s go Peppy. I think your gonna have to drive.�

      �It�ll be my pleasure.� Peppy replied. It only took a few minutes to reach the hospital but even so, by that time, Fox was having a hard time staying conscious. Luckily during one of Fox�s hazy moments, Peppy had called ahead told the hospital to have a stretcher meet them.

      �Don�t worry Mr. McCloud. We�ve gotcha.� The MD told him.

      �Please� just Fox.� Fox told him and he slid under.

[Kursed]

(Umm  for a side note Fox's mother was Vixy Mcloud she died in a  bombing attempt to get James.

[Guest Julius Quasar]

Intersting story...

(Umm  for a side note Fox's mother was Vixy Mcloud she died in a  bombing attempt to get James.

(I agree there, Andross tried to kill James McCloud with a car bomb, but accidentally killed Vixy Reinard-McCloud instead, I believe...)

[Cavemonkynick]

Thanks. My knolage doesnt extend beond the games so i made a lot of it up as i went

[Kursed]

Intersting story...

(I agree there, Andross tried to kill James McCloud with a car bomb, but accidentally killed Vixy Reinard-McCloud instead, I believe...)

yeah something like that all i know is it was a attempt on  James that got Vixy.

anytime. as a Krystal fan i need to know a little bit on Fox.

[Cavemonkynick]

chapter 3 is up if your interested, im workin on 4 as we speak

[Braux]

Nice! I like it, a good story in my book, I'm going to keep tabs on this one.

But please, C'mon guys, he can have any idea to what happened with Vixy (Yes, I read the comics) or Fox's mother. But basing your backround on that would be less work... So really I donno...  :lolhyst:

[lost_in_thought]

dang that felt ...

epic

nice story man

[Cavemonkynick]

Nice! I like it, a good story in my book, I'm going to keep tabs on this one.

But please, C'mon guys, he can have any idea to what happened with Vixy (Yes, I read the comics) or Fox's mother. But basing your backround on that would be less work... So really I donno... 

I generly dont try to take the easy way out when i write. Even if i knew the background i prolly woulda scraped it. I like to make my work mine. Its more fun that way. i know that that prolly sounds stupig coming from someone writing a fanfiction but if youll look, i pretty much only took a wireframe backstory and its chareters and morphed it into something mew. I put a lot of myself into fox and a lot of falco revolved around my crazy friends (like the evesdropping at the door in chapter 2 and the moniters in chapter 3) the whole story with wolf came to me out of nowhere and i basicaly had to start from scratch again. (sorry if tis got outta hand)

[Braux]

Well...! all i'm saying is that you can take any backround you want, I hope there weren't many misunderstandings. It seemed Kursed (sorry) seemed to be a little intimidating when it came to the correct-ness of the backround story. I hope were cool, 

Don't take fanfiction so hard on yourself, I've been writing for some time too, yet never got any of my stories out. I'm currently working on one... Its a little abstract (Involves 'Earth X Corneria' during the 1980's)

Believe me, writing is hard, but it seems you have a talent!

[Cavemonkynick]

Well...! all i'm saying is that you can take any backround you want, I hope there weren't many misunderstandings. It seemed Kursed (sorry) seemed to be a little intimidating when it came to the correct-ness of the backround story. I hope were cool, 

Don't take fanfiction so hard on yourself, I've been writing for some time too, yet never got any of my stories out. I'm currently working on one... Its a little abstract (Involves 'Earth X Corneria' during the 1980's)

Believe me, writing is hard, but it seems you have a talent!

no hard feelinds intended. sorry if i came across as frustrated or critizing. i was simply explaining how i write. as far as what kursed said, it dosent bother me. if id known foxes name was Vixy it would have saved me 30 minuites of coming up with the one i used  :krystal:

[Cavemonkynick]

Chapter 3: Picking Up the Pieces

     

      About an hour after Fox was admitted, Falco, Wolf, Slippy, and Krystal came in. Peppy filled them in. The doctors had taken Fox into surgery to check for and, if necessary, repair any damage to his spine. After Peppy filled them in everyone fell into their own groove. Falco had immediately begun pacing; Krystal tried to sit down but could not keep still. She would get up and walk around, stare out the window, sit down for a little while longer, never in the same place. Slippy pulled out a data pad and crunched some numbers on some modifications he’d been working on, and Wolf sat down picked a spot on the floor and stared it down, constantly tapping his foot. Peppy was the only one who didn’t seem worried. When the doctor finally came in three hours later he was the center of attention.

      “He’s gonna be just fine. He’s changing his clothes and he’ll be right out.” The room shared a sigh of relief. Peppy thanked the doctor and pulled him to the side.

      “Really, how bad is it?” Peppy asked. The Doctor smiled.

      “Never miss a beat do ya General? He really is lucky. The shockwave completely shattered one vertebra and we had to rebuild it. There are two rods holding it in place but their made of calcium bicarbonate.”

      “So before long it will just grow into the spine.”

      “Yep, no ill effect what-so-ever. I’d feel a lot better if we could keep him over-night but you know how he is. He won’t have it.”

      “Yea, don’t worry; we’ll keep an eye on him. Thanks again doc.”

      “No problem. Keep ‘em outta trouble, and no firefights for at least a week!” They shook hands and the Doctor walked off.

      “That was the guy that worked with Vivien, right?” Falco asked.

      “Yea,” Peppy replied, “he was real good to her…”

      “Hey guys.” Fox said as he walked into the room. Krystal stood slowly and then flung herself into his arms.

      “I’m so sorry.” Fox told her and stroked her head.

      “I’m just glad you’re ok Fox.” She said and held him tighter. Then, as they separated, Krystal accidently brushed Fox’s wound and he winced and pulled away.

      “Still tender,” Fox said.

      “I’m so sorry. Does it hurt that bad?” Krystal asked.

      “Only when you touch it,” Fox said and smiled to comfort her. “Wolf what happened out there?”

      “When Krystal showed up the formation shifted. I lost track of my blind spots. That ones on me. Sorry man…” Wolf reacquainted himself with the spot on the floor.

      “Don’t worry about it…” Fox said. Wolf looked up at Fox and studied his face.

“How do you keep it together kid?” Wolf asked.

“Honestly? I have no idea.” Fox said.

“I guess your tougher than I give you credit for.”

“Gee thanks.” Fox said. He sighed and closed his eyes. He teetered for a moment and Krystal had to steady him to stop him from falling. Fox reassured her that he was ok, just exhausted. She made him sit down.

        “I think I owe all of you an explanation.” Fox told them of a conversation he had with Peppy shortly after he was made general.

      “So what’s up Peppy?” Fox asked leaning back on the table.

      “I’ve got some… disturbing, information you need to know.” Peppy responded. Fox cocked his head.

      “What are you talking about?” he said.

      “There’s a price on your head Fox.” Peppy said grimly. Fox laughed.

      “So? What else is new? There’s always been a price on the team Peppy.”

      “No Fox, there’s a price on YOUR head, yours and everyone else on the team.” Fox stood up.

      “No…”

      “Whoever ordered this hit has figured out our one weakness. United we stand…” Peppy started.

      “Divided we fall…” Fox finished. “Dang it!” he shouted and slammed his fist on the table. He began pacing.

      “All of our formations rely on team-work. If just one of us is missing the entire formation is compromised because we waste half of our effort covering our odd-man-out’s blind spots.”

      “What am I gonna do Peppy?”

      “That… is a decision I can’t make for you.”

      “That’s the story…” Fox said. He was sitting leaned forward, his elbows on his knees. “I thought if I split the team and got you guys away from me you would be safe… there’s no way I could lose you guys. Falco, when dad disappeared and mom got sick you were always there.”

      “You guys took me in…” Falco said. “Your family to me man. I’ll always be here.”

      “Slippy,” Fox continued, “we couldn’t operate without you.” Slippy grinned.

      “Krystal… I don’t even know where to start.”

      “We’ll talk later.” She said with a smile. Fox smiled back.

      “Alright,” Peppy said, “Wolf, you owe Fox an explanation.”

      “Not here.” Wolf said standing up. “The walls have ears” And a nurse that was standing close by quickly walked off.

      “Nosey pest lookin for gossip,” Falco said.

      Back on the bridge Wolf broke things down.

      “First things first, why do you resent me Fox?”

      “Don’t play stupid with me. You betrayed my father.”

      “No I didn’t.”

      “You joined Andross’s army!” Fox yelled.

      “Only as an inside man,” Wolf yelled back. They were both standing now.

      “Should we stop them?” Krystal asked.

      “Nah, they’ll sort it out.” Falco said.

      “Falco’s right. Not much we could do to stop them.” Peppy said.

      They went back and forth for a few minutes and Falco mentioned something about wishing he had popcorn when Wolf yelled, “Fox, can’t you get over yourself for just one minute?!” Fox’s body was ridged as if he was holding back pure rage, yet at this statement his expression of rage collapsed into exhaustion. He fell back in his chair, rested his arms on his knees, and is head in his hands.

      “Fox,” Slippy asked. “You ok?” Fox looked up and nodded.

      “Alright Wolf… you win… whatcha got?” Fox said.

      “Thank you. As you know, my reputation was slaughtered by the media. But when I gave my report to General Pepper he saw it as an opportunity to set an inside man.” Fox glanced at Peppy.

      “It’s true. I have access to the system and can pull up-”

      “No need, I believe you.”

      “Yet you don’t believe me?” Wolf asked.

      “Have you ever given me any reason to?” Fox shot back, a little edge in his voice.

      “Touché,” Wolf said throwing his hands up. “Anyway, I joined up and was assigned a squadron. Andrew Oinkiney, Leon Powalski, and Pigma Dangar were put under my command. Andrew, needless to say, was less than pleased. I had constant trouble out of him. ‘I am the heir to the Andross Empire! I should be in command!’ Pigma… I had to stop myself from shooting him out of the sky many a time. He made it a point to make it obvious that he preferred to fly solo. I eventually started just counting him out of our formations. Leon was the only one who stayed in line. I was actually planning with General Pepper to begin dismantling Andross’ empire from the inside when Andross declared war on the Lylat System and you stepped up to the plate. I tried to contact Pepper but Andross caught me. I convinced him that I was going to give false Intel to open a gap in Corneria’s defenses but I don’t think he ever trusted me again. He kept me busy, and to put me to the ultimate test, my new objective was to stop you at any cost. When you finally took that power crazed ape down Andrew flew the coop and I ran Pigma off. Leon stuck around though. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to go back to normal life so I started working as a bounty hunter and kept tabs for Pepper.”

      “Wolf was the one who told me about the prices on your heads.” Peppy said. Fox sighed and closed his eyes. There was silence for a moment and then Fox said. “Did you ever find and leads on my father?”

      “One,” Wolf said, “but I never had the chance to follow it up.” Fox looked up.

      “You did, really, where?”

      “Sigma Tel. It’s a small outpost on the edge of the System.”

      “Why would he go there?”

      “It’s real close to Venom. I tracked down Andrew and grilled him not too long ago. After James shook Pigma Andrew chased him down, he lost him around Sigma Tel. All he knew is that James had to eject… we didn’t fly with parachutes…”

      “We still don’t.”

      “James was flyin low though and, a lot like you, he was, IS, resourceful.”

      “Rob, how long will it take to reach Sigma Tel?”

      “ETA, four hours,” Rob replied.

      “Peppy?”

      “Go for it. I wanna know if he’s out there too.” Peppy replied.

      “Good, Rob, set a course.” Fox turned to Krystal, “This will give us time to talk.”

      “Good,” She said and they left the bridge and headed for the mess hall.

      “You wanna start or should I?” Fox asked.

      “Either ways fine with me.”

      “Well, I’ve told why I did what I did… Krystal… I love you… I’ve always loved you.” Fox turned and looked out the window and sighed. He leaned on the windowsill. “I don’t really know how to explain just what it is about you… When I saw you trapped, my priorities changed… I had to rescue you.”

      “I wasn’t very grateful was I?” Krystal said and half smiled.

      “It really didn’t surprise me. To be honest I kinda forgot about you when I saw Andross. Instinct took over. It’s like a reflex,” he said with a small laugh, “what made you decide to join?” Fox looked over at her.

      “I’m not sure… I told myself I was just looking for leads on my parents… but there was always more to it.”

      On the bridge, Falco and Wolf were watching on the security cameras.

      “You people are so nosey.” Peppy said walking over and looking nonetheless.

      “That’s what brothers are good for.” Falco said.

      “Hey! I can’t see!” Slippy complained.

        They all watched on the monitor as Fox turned around and leaned back on the window.

      “I know I’m not perfect, far from it, and I know I’ve hurt you and I’ll probably mess up again, but I really love you and I’d do anything for you…” Krystal walked over and put her hand on his shoulder.

      “I love you to Fox.” As she leaned in, Falco cut the feed.

      “We saw nothing.” He said slowly and shivered all over as if trying to shake a bad memory.

      Back in the mess hall Fox and Krystal kissed for a moment. They pulled apart and all Fox could say was, “Wow…” they both began to laugh.

      “Wanna head back to the bridge?” Krystal asked.

      “Sure,” Fox replied, “I really could use a nap. I’m beat.” When they got back to the bridge Fox knew instantly that they had been eavesdropping because of the awkward tension in the air.

      “So how much did you see?” he asked and collapsed into his chair.

      “I killed it before you two started making out.” Falco said.

      “Then you missed the good part.” Krystal said.

      “I am so gonna have nightmares tonight.” Falco said.

      “Serves you right,” Krystal said and laughed. Fox propped his feet up on his console and leaned back.

      “Wake me when we get there.” He said and drifted off to sleep.

[Cavemonkynick]

Chapter 4: Sigma Tel

       

       “We have arrived at our destination, Sigma Tel” Rob informed.

       “I’ll wake Fox.” Krystal said.

       “I wonder if James is really here…” Peppy said staring out at the small outpost.

       “We’ll find out soon…” Wolf replied. They turned and watched as Fox stood and stretched.

       “Alright,” He said, “I’m headed down. Rob, prep my Arwing.”

       “I’ll walk with you.” Krystal said. When the door closed, Falco sighed.

       “What’s your problem?” Peppy asked.

       “Those two mooning over each other makes me miss being around Katt…” Falco said. “I’ve been trying to contact her but she’s not answering”

       “I’m sure she’s fine.” Peppy said. “She’s tough…”

       Down in the launch bay Krystal and Fox kissed and Krystal said, “Please be careful.”

       “Don’t worry,” Fox said and smiled, “I’ll be fine.” He hopped in his Arwing and checked the diagnostics. Cautious kept him alive. It would be just his luck that he’d over look a small thing on one of these quiet flights and end up blowing up, but he found no problems. He turned back to Krystal and said, “I love you.”

       “I love you too.” She replied and kissed him on the cheek before leaving the bay. The lift-lock released and Fox shot from the hangar.

       “Rob, scan the surface and find me a place to land.” He said.

       “Affirmative,” Rob replied and after a few moments sent coordinates to the navigation system in Fox’s Arwing.

       “Thank you Rob.” Fox said and set out. Five minutes later, Fox touched down in front of a small restaurant/inn.

       “Good a place as any to start I guess.” He said and stepped inside. He walked up to the check-in desk and rang the bell.

       “Like steppin into a time machine…” he said to himself.

       “How can I help you?” The desk clerk asked. “Hi, I’m Hannah Park.”

       “Fox McCloud,” he responded.

       “McCloud, you mean like James McCloud?”

       “You know my dad?”

       “You’re his son?”

       “How do you know dad?”

       “About six years ago he crashed behind our inn. We took him in and took care of him.”

       “Where is he now?”

       “Probably up in his room.”

       “You’re kidding me!”

       “No, room 207, up the stairs, third room on the right.”

       “Thank you so much!” Fox said and tore out up the stairs. He arrived at the door and froze. He raised his arm and hesitated for a moment and then knocked three times. After what seemed like an eternity the door opened. Fox couldn’t believe his eyes. James McCloud stood before him.

       “Dad… is that really you?” Fox said.

       “…Fox?” James said. “I can’t believe it…” They stood for a moment and then James brought Fox into a hug that nearly suffocated him.

       “James,” came a voice from the back room, “who’s at the door?” a woman stepped into the room.

       “Sarah,” James said, breaking their embrace, “this is my son, Fox.”

       “Oh!” Sarah said, “James has told me so much about you!”

       Fox gave his father a look.

       “I met her and her husband Tomas Westwind at the diner down the street.” Fox sighed and laughed.

       “Sorry about that, it’s been an insane day.” Fox said shaking his head. “So what are you two doing way out here?”

       “We’re looking for our daughter, Krystal.” Sarah said.

       “This really is an insane day. I’ve got a Krystal on my team”

       “You’re kidding me!” Sarah belted out a perfect description of her.

       “That’s her.” Fox said.

       “Tom! Get in here!” When her husband ran in the room Sarah told him the good news.

       “This is insane.” Tom said, completely astonished.

       “That’s what I said.” Fox replied.

       “We fly a small cruiser.” Tom informed him.

       “The Great Fox is a Class 9 Carrier, there should be somewhere for you to land.”

       “I guess I should pack my things.” James said. Fox’s communicator blipped a subtle code red. He flipped it open and scanned over the message. There was enemy activity in the area.

       “For the love of- can you guys hang tight and give dad a lift for me?” Fox asked.

       “What’s the situation?” James said.

       “Not sure.”

       “Go check it out. We’ll be there before too long.” Fox bolted out the room and down the stairs to his Arwing. He lifted off and headed to the Great Fox. When he had breached the atmosphere, the realigned his course and kicked on the thrusters. When he landed Peppy was waiting.

       “It’s a small force,” He explained, “but this is still an unknown enemy.”

       “Don’t worry,” Fox replied, “We can handle it.”

       “Now Fox-” Peppy started.

       “I know, I can’t fight, but I know someone who can.” Peppy left Fox to his mysteries as they stepped onto the bridge.

       “So what did you find?” Wolf asked.

       “Later,” Fox replied, “Rob, what’s the status on everyone’s ships?” He said and sat at his console. The diagnostics ran across the screen. Something caught his eye on the thruster test so he ran it again.

       “That’s not right.” He mumbled to himself. There was an abnormality in the Cloud Runner, Krystal’s ship. “Rob,” He said, “Run a full scan and repair on the Cloud Runner’s thruster system.”

       “No time pup,” Wolf said, “they’re here.” Fox turned to see he was right. Any longer and their yet faceless enemy would be on top of them. He wanted to be angry but his exhaustion wouldn’t let him.

       “Your right,” Fox sighed. He closed his eyes and wiped his hand down his face. He felt Krystal’s hand on his shoulder. He wanted to comfort her but he couldn’t shake this foreboding shadow in the back of his mind, and apparently it showed. When he turned to look at her the concerned gaze pierced him and he flinched. Krystal pulled her hand away and looked down.

       “I’m sorry.” He said and looked down. “I’ve just got a bad feeling about this.” He looked up and lifted her head. “Just be careful, ok?” She silently nodded and they embraced. The team, save Fox and Peppy headed for the hanger and Fox pulled up full diagnostics on everyone’s ships. The fighters launched and headed into the fray.

       “Fox,” Peppy said, “There’s a small craft coming from the planet asking permission to land.”

       “Then let ‘em in Peppy.” Fox said matter-of-factly.

       “Uh, ok.” Peppy stammered. Fox almost laughed. A few moments later James, Tom, and Sarah walked onto the deck.

       “James, is that you?!” Peppy said astonished.

       “It’s been a long time Peppy.” James said.

       “I hate to postpone this reunion but dad I need your help.” Fox interrupted. “I need you to fly for me.” James raised an eyebrow and glanced at Peppy.

       “Doctors orders,” Peppy explained.

       “Gotcha,” James said. "I’d be honored.”

       “Good.” Fox took his HUD headset off and passed it to his father. “Use this. It’ll help you keep tabs on the team. Watch Krystal for me, the Cloudrunner’s running hot for some reason.”

       “You let her go anyway?” James commented.

       “She’s as headstrong as I am, if not more-so. I couldn’t have stopped her if I strapped her down.”

       “Just like her mother.” Tomas said. This statement earned a punch on the shoulder from Sarah.

James took his shades off and Fox helped him put the headset and activated the HUD.

       “That should do it,” Fox said. The HUD came to life. “If you like it I’ll put Slippy on making one for you.” James nodded and left the bridge. Fox turned to Tomas and Sarah and told them to make themselves at home.

       “This could take a while.” Fox was right. Half an hour later and the fray was still swarming with enemy fighters. The Cloudrunner was still running hot and was getting worse. Fox began to pace. Peppy picked up on his concern.

       “She’s a great pilot Fox.” He said.

       “If the engines blow, all the pilot skill in the whole system wouldn’t do her a lick of good.” A warning sounded from Fox’s console. The Cloudrunner was at its limit.

       “Krystal fall back now.” Peppy called over TEAMCOM.

       “No time,” Fox said. “She’s losing power too fast. She’ll never make it back to the ship. She’ll be blown outta the sky. Rob, ready my Arwing. Krystal, can you hear me? Head for the planet, when you breach the atmosphere level out as much as you can, I'm on my way.”

       “But Fox.” Peppy said. Fox cut him off.

       “No Peppy. I'm not losing her.” Peppy sighed.

       “Be careful Fox…” He said as Fox bolted from the room. As he ran his back jolted him as if he’d been stabbed and he fell to his knees. He gritted his teeth hand slammed his fist on the floor.

       “Pull it together!” He screamed at himself and staggered to his feet. He continued on to the launch bay and got in his Arwing. For the first time ever he skipped the diagnostics and launched. He headed straight for Sigma-Tel. The Cloudrunner’s energy readings were at twenty-five percent and Krystal was entering the atmosphere. Fox kicked his Arwing into overdrive. They were both in the atmosphere now. Krystal was fighting to level out and Fox was pushing his Arwing harder than ever trying to get under her.

       “Fox,” Falco came over the TEAMCOM, “Are you crazy? What are you doing?!”

       “I'm doing what I have to Falco. Fox out.” Fox replied.

He was under her now and the ships were inches away from each other.

       “When the ships touch, kill your thrusters and tether your ship to mine with the G-Diffuser, I'm gonna land as best I can.” Krystal wanted to argue but she knew there was no other way, so she agreed. The ships hulls kissed and Krystal stopped the thrusters and tied the ships together. The ships started to lose altitude fast. Fox sent all the power he could to the downward thrusters. It cut their speed by about half, but it wouldn’t be enough. He’d have to suck it up. They were parallel to the ground and closing fast. He had about ten seconds. He began to count. Ten, nine, he breathed deep, six five, he tightened his grip, three, two, “Hold on!” he yelled, one… Fox pulled as hard as he could on the stick. The nose of his fighter pulled up and the tail end took the brunt of the impact. The nose pitched back forward and slammed into the ground. The Cloudrunner tore free of the tethers the G-Diffuser had created flew forward sliding across the ground. Fox's ship managed to flip one more full time before landing flat on its belly. Fox popped the canopy and tried to get out but he couldn’t. The shear pain in his back wouldn’t let him. He looked and saw Krystal climbing out of her cockpit and running to him.  Fox looked her over. Blood was running down the side of her face. Fox reached out and brushed her hair out of her face, reveling an inch long gash above her left eye.

      “You’re hurt.” He said. She put her hand to her forehead and pulled it back.

      “I’ll be fine, what about you.” She said.

      “I'm fine, just shook up. Peppy, you read me?”

      “Yea, I hear ya Fox. You ok?”

      “I'm fine, send Tomas to pick us up, this baby ain’t going anywhere.”

      “He’s on his way.”

      “Thanks, Fox out.” Fox sighed and leaned back.

      “Who’s Tomas?” Krystal asked.

      “I’ll let him tell you.” Fox said.

Chapter 5: James, Sarah, and Tomas coming soon

p.s. sorry if i got anyones hopes up, (which i doubt i did) but none of this is new, its just now that my brain is borderline functionable again i relised that it would make MUCH more since to just contunue the story on the same post  .

[Guest Julius Quasar]

that's a good story, there!

[Kursed]

Well...! all i'm saying is that you can take any backround you want, I hope there weren't many misunderstandings. It seemed Kursed (sorry) seemed to be a little intimidating when it came to the correct-ness of the backround story. I hope were cool, 

Don't take fanfiction so hard on yourself, I've been writing for some time too, yet never got any of my stories out. I'm currently working on one... Its a little abstract (Involves 'Earth X Corneria' during the 1980's)

Believe me, writing is hard, but it seems you have a talent!

Okay I'm sorry for seeming that way i was just telling him what happend.

[Cavemonkynick]

Okay I'm sorry for seeming that way i was just telling him what happend.

Thats quite enough you too! lol. sorry, couldnt help myself.

Anyways, I was gonna start chapter 5 yesterday but i was... side tracked. If you wanna see what... disticated me head to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOex2mIqzCk and tell me what you think. Either comment the vid or send me a message.

[Cavemonkynick]

I Feal God Awful that this megar ammount is all i have right now, but its like a cycle. I'll do my best to get somethin done on it tomarrow

Chapter 5: James, Sarah, and Tomas

“My Parents,” Krystal said in astonishment. She, Fox, and Tomas had returned the bridge where Tomas and Sarah told Krystal the news.

“Yes” Sarah said. “We were on the run for nearly 10 years.”

“On the run,” Fox asked, He was being bandaged up by Peppy. “Who’s after yo-ow!”

“Sorry Fox.” Peppy said.

“Before the war we were working on a project along with two scientists from Corneria.” Tomas explained. They died in a lab accident and,”

“Wait.” Falco said, “Who were they?”

“Their names were Sam and Cindy Lombardi.”

“My parents…” Falco said quietly.

“So that makes you Falco?”

“Yea…”

“They spoke of you. They were good friends of ours.” Falco didn’t respond, instead he walked over to the window and stared out at space.

“He’ll be ok,” Fox said, desperate to keep the conversation moving before Falco completely locked down. Fox remembered when Falco’s parents first died he was stoic for a week, he barely ate or slept. Fox saw the same look in his eyes now that he did then. “Please continue.”

“Umm… We continued work for a few years but we were closed down and shipped off-planet. Some of Andross’ goons had found us out and we were in danger. It wasn’t until recently, when the remnant of Andross’ army was wiped out, that we could come out of hiding. We headed straight for home, and we found that Krystal was gone. So we started looking. In our travels, we found Sigma-Tel and Met James.”

“That was about two years ago.” James said.

“He never mentioned she was on your team.” Sarah said.

“Fox had split the team, and from what I heard, he wasn’t on very good terms with Krystal at the time so I knew it would have been a dry lead.”

Again, sorry its so little

[Guest Para Astaroth]

Dude, this story is amazing!  It's better than mine, I'll tell ya.  I'm working chapter 5 and my brain went dead  X_X  So, time to think >_<;;

[Cavemonkynick]

Half a year an this is all ive come up with.... Senior year is kickin my ash (bad pun, see title) i apoligise but this is the little more i have on chapter 5.

“You probably wouldn’t even have found me. I stayed hidden for the longest.” Fox said.

“And he’s right about me,” Krystal said, “It was still too fresh.” Tomas shot a look at Fox. Fox started to defend himself but Krystal spoke up. “He did it for my safety but I was too stubborn to listen.” Tomas looked like he wanted to say something, but decided better of it. James laughed.

“How’s your back Fox?” Slippy asked.

“Still sore, but mainly just stiff, I’ll live. How’s it looking Peppy?” Fox replied.

“It was bleeding a little but none of the stitches came loose.” Peppy said.

“You got off lucky Fox,” Falco said, finally turning from the window, “so don’t be pullin’ no more stunts. I got enough on my mind.” Falco’s eyes flickered and he rotated his shoulders as if to shrug off the mental weight that had been bearing down on him.

“I won’t be,” Fox said with a laugh.

“So James,” Wolf said, “What happened out there that day?” James sighed deeply and sat down in the nearest chair. He rubbed his temples and then looked up. “I don’t remember some of it and some of its hazy…” James started. “I had just split us up, Wolf with Peppy and me with Pigma. It was all running smoothly. All of a sudden I get slammed with a Super Nova Smart Bomb. Ours were the only fighters that carried them then, so I knew it was friendly fire, but I didn’t know it was intentional… Thankfully our limit was one at a time, or Dengar would have fried me for sure. I took care of him quick enough, but my shields were low so I did all I could do.”

“Bail…” Fox said.

“Exactly” James replied.  “I knew that Peppy and Wolf had gotten out of there and I knew which way they had gone, so I went the other way.  Luckily I ran across Sigma-Tel.” James hung his head.

“Dad, are you ok?” Fox asked?  James ran his hands down his face.  Fox could detect the weariness in his eyes.  For a moment he was worried, but James quickly regained his composure and continued on

“As I peeled off I realized Andrew was chasing me. I flew in low and tried to lose him but my Arwing had had it… he took me down just outside of town. No tellin’ how long I was out. I don’t remember much after that, only that Hannah found me. I had some broken bones, and I was burnt up pretty bad, it was a good two years before I was back on my own two feet again… and even longer still before I was back to my old self.”

James sighed hard and sat back.

“Mom will be glad to see you again.” Fox said.

“One step at a time son…” James replied. “What would I tell her?’

“The truth… She's been through a lot dad. Just having you back would mean the world to her.”

“Ya think?”

“I know.” At this James sighed again.

“Just call her dad,” Fox said.

“Ok, but you have to talk to her first…gimmie a chance to get myself together.”

im accutly workin on it now so i might have a little more before long... mabye

[CrypticQuery]

I really enjoyed this so far! I like where the story is going, the writing style is simply great! Oh yeah, if you want to know some of the pre-game history, see the original Itoh comics here:

http://arwinglanding.net/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=1

[Fluxy]

Come on!!! I know you can  do it! I like the story so far, and can't handle the idea of this being the end. The show must go on!!!

[Cavemonkynick]

Im glad theres others out there as eager to se the end as i am! im doig everything i can. this is my last week of highschool so before long ill have a little more time to work. i f you liked this you should check out my other brainchild here http://forums.starfox-online.net/index.php?topic=6536.0

[Cavemonkynick]

I really feal bad about not havivg more but i want to prove its not dead.

“Ok, but you have to talk to her first…gimmie a chance to get myself together.” And James left the bridge. Fox told Rob to connect them and after a while, Anna picked up. She grinned then scowled.

“Fox McCloud! Are you trying to give me a heart attack?” she yelled. It was then Fox realized he hadn’t covered his bandages.

“Sorry mom,” he said pulling his shirt down, “I promise I’m fine.”

“Well, what happened?”

“I haven’t told you?” Fox quickly told her the story, leaving out the parts that would worry her. “But anyways,” he said finishing the story, “that’s not why I called. I’ve got a surprise for you.”

“Oh really now,” She asked, “And what exactly would tha-” but she was cut off as the door to the bridge opened and James stepped in.

“Anna,” James said.

“I must be dreaming.” She said, tears welling in her eyes.

“We’ll give you two a minute,” Peppy said, and they all filed out of the bridge.

As the door shut, a pain shot through Fox’s side. He placed his hand on the wall and doubled over.

“Yall go ahead,” Falco called as the others turned the corner, “I gotta talk to Fox a bit.” Falco walked a few steps and then rushed to Fox.

“Thanks” Fox managed, not wanting to worry Krystal. He wanted her to be able to enjoy her reunion with her parents. Falco helped Fox sit down, and then they sat. Every now and then, Falco would shoot Fox a worried glance. Fox almost laughed. If only people knew the real him Fox thought. After a while, the pain started to subside and Fox could breathe easier.

“Now that your better, I would like to talk” Falco said. Fox laughed.

“It’s Katt, isn’t it?”

“… Yea, I miss her. And you and Krystal moonin’ all over each other ain’t helpin’.”

“Well I guess I could moon over you if you want.” Now it was Falco’s turn to laugh.

“That’s not quite what I had in mind.”

“She’s welcome around any time, you know that.”

“Yea I know, that’s not the problem. I can’t get in touch with her.”

“What’s the last you heard?”

“It’s been ages…”

Fox thought for a moment. Katt was an excellent pilot. She had been working bounty jobs last he heard, “Girl’s gotta eat,” she had told him. Of course it had been over a year since he had seen her. “If something had happened to her we’d of heard by now.” Fox finally said. “A bounty hunter like her wouldn’t go unmissed.”

“Yea I know, I guess at this point I’m more worried she’s avoiding me.” Falco replied.

“That sounds more like her.” Fox laughed, “Maybe Krystal knows something.”

“It’s worth a shot. Let me help you up”

“Thanks,” Fox said as Falco helped him to his feet. When they got to the mess hall Krystal was talking and laughing with her parents. Fox smiled to himself. He walked over and sat down next to Peppy.

“How’s your back?” Peppy asked.

“I’ll live,” Fox said as Wolf sat down next to him.

“I can’t believe you pulled that crazy stunt off.” He said

“Me either,” Fox said bluntly, “but I’m glad I did.” Fox replied. “I lost her once; I’m not losing her again.” Wolf grunted his approval.

“You’re turning out just like James.” He said.

“I hear that a lot.” Fox relied.

“Hey Fox!” Krystal called from across the room, “Come here a sec.” Fox got up as smoothly as he could but he had to shuffle to keep his balance as he stood. Krystal shot a worried glance and Fox gave a reassuring smile. He walked over to her and she slid her hand in his.

“So,” Tomas said, “Krystal tells me you two are sort of an item.”

“Oh she did?” Fox said, “She hasn’t told me anything.”

“Fox!” Krystal said laughing.

“What?” He replied.

“Anyways,” Tomas said, “That’s beside the point.”

“Right,” Sarah said, “We wanted to thank you Fox, for everything you’ve done for Krystal.”

“It’s easy to see how much you care for her.” Tomas said. Fox managed a smile and Krystal squeezed his hand. “As long as you care for her that much,” Tomas continued, “You have our blessing.”

“Thank you,” Fox said quietly.

“Fox,” Krystal asked, “are you ok?”

“Yeah” Fox lied. The room was spinning and his back was killing him. “I just need to sit down.” He muttered as he fell to the floor.

As Fox came around he wondered how long he’d been out. Not too long, he thought as he was still on the mess hall floor.

“He’s coming to,” he heard a voice say.

“I swear, at this rate he’s gonna kill himself,” another voice said.

“Falco! Don’t talk like that!” That was Krystal. Fox cursed himself, he’d done it again. He had to stop worrying her so much.

“I’m fine.” He managed and tried to sit up but a hand forced him back down. It was James.

“Just take it easy son,” He said. “No need to rush.”

Fox did as he was told and laid still, he noticed his back wasn’t hurting as bad but, “My back feels wet.”

“You’re bleeding again,” James told him. “Peppy’s gone to get the bandages.”

“Great,” Fox sighed. Krystal kneeled down beside him.

“Are you really ok?” She asked.

“For the most part, yea,” He answered. “My back doesn’t hurt.

Again, i promice its not dead

[Fluxy]

I am glad to see more of this. :] Do continue when you have more time.

[Cavemonkynick]

heres what i got done today

“For the most part, yea,” He answered. “My back doesn’t hurt."

Krystal sighed and a tear fell from her eye. Fox grimaced and let his head fall to the floor, hard. He hated himself for putting her through so much. Before long Peppy showed up with the gauze and bandages. Falco helped him sit up and Peppy wrapped him up.

Fox noticed that Krystal was still worried. “So dad,” he asked, desperate to turn the attention away from him. “How’d it go with mom?”

“Well,” James laughed, “she did a lot of crying and yelling and I did a lot of explaining and to be honest, she took it a lot better than I thought she would.”

“That’s good,” Fox said, “I’m willing to bet she still has a bone to pick with me though.”

“Why?”

“I never got around to telling her how I got hurt. She hates it when she thinks I'm trying to hide something from her.”

James laughed. “It’s good to know some things never change.”

The room got quiet for a moment and Fox glanced at Falco, who raised an eyebrow. Fox pointed at Krystal with his eyes. Falco nodded.

“Hey Krystal,” he said. “When’s the last time you saw Katt?”

“Not too long ago. She was doing some mercenary work outta Katina.” Falco nodded and half ran to the mess halls comm. unit. He pulled up the screen and punched in the contact code for Katina. The display went blank for a moment then a list of contacts pulled up and Falco located the military base and selected it. He waited for the connection to go through and a familiar face popped up on the screen.

“Cornarian Fleet, Katina outpost, Sergeant Bill speaking”

“Bill!” Falco shouted. Bill was an old friend from the academy. He grew up with both Falco and Fox.

“Falco, where ya been bro?” Bill asked.

“I ran into Fox on my last mission and now I'm helpin him out.”

“Gotcha, ya had me worried there man. You never filed completion on your last job so I didn’t know where you’d gotten too.”

“You keeping tabs on me or something?”

“Naw, we’re shorthanded ‘round here lately so I'm helpin Don keep records straight.”

“Does that mean you have access to all mission reports?”

“Yep, why?”

“I’m tryin to find Katt.”

“Falco, you know I can’t disclose that information to anyone without clearance.”

“You can if it’s a matter of safety to the person involved.”

“Is it?”

“It is now.”

Bill sighed and scratched his head. “Alright, but if she asked, Don gave you the info, I take enough heat as is. She’s in Sector X. Slippy’s dad, Beltino, is doing some work for the military brass and wanted an extra hand around just in case any hostiles caught wind and decided to butt in.”

“Thanks Bill, I owe ya.”

“Darn right ya do,” the two of them laughed, “Just remember to keep my name outta this.”

“Consider it done.”

“Fox around?”

“Yea I'm here.” Fox said from the floor. Falco moved the screen so Fox and Bill could see each other.

“Wow,” Bill said. “You’re a mess.”

“Thanks,” Fox growled. Bill laughed.

“I’d heard about your accident, how ya holdin’ up?”

“As good as can be expected I guess,” Fox said.