FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

The familiar sound of the docking bay arm latching onto the ship echoed through the empty halls. The female husky powered down the ship before sitting there in silence, leaning her head back on the leather seat. Normally she would hear other people walking around getting things ready. But they made a mistake of getting to close to a GE controlled moon. Before they knew it, one of their boarding ships latched onto their door and a fight ensued. Luckily she managed to make an emergency jump and get away.

But the damage was already done. Her bodyguards were dead along with the invading party. She suffered a shot to the shoulder but was otherwise okay. After taking their tags and giving them a somewhat proper send off, she ejected all the bodies into space. Now there she sat, in a docking station with a badly damaged ship, probably a busted warp drive and cargo that needed to get back ASAP.

"Rias, get up. We need to get out of here," the AI spoke up, breaking the silence in the ship making her huff angrily. "There has to be a ship here we can......commandeer. Or maybe someone can help us. In any case, this cargo needs to reach Laredo 7. GE forces might have tracked us to this station."

The husky growled slightly before standing up, pulling her AI companion, Rico, from the terminal and into her pocket.

"Yes your majesty," she said sarcastically, walking to the back and opening the loading door and entering the hub station.

She scoffed lightly at the wound on her shoulder. Stepping onto the platform of the hub station, she looked around, lime green eyes taking in everything. On her body was a simple pair of black pants along with a grey shirt that covered her pure white fur. Her black tip tail twitched back and forth as her black ears swiveled, picking up everything. Digging in her pocket, she took out a pair of spectacles so Rico could see everything. An ear piece was slipped into her ear so she could hear him speak.

"Good news. Early scans indicate no Ge presence on the station. So that's one thing we don't have to worry about right now. Bad news, I can't find many ships for hire that have a large enough cargo bay for our cargo. Let me keep checking though."

Rias looked around the station, her lime green eyes taking in everything before walking over to a bench. Taking a seat, she inserted the chip into a terminal for AI to find ships easier.

"There, that should help," she says, crossing her legs and looking at the ceiling.

Rico's hologram appeared above the cylindrical terminal. He resembled a shark as he had his arms crossed, tail swaying.

"Yeah that helps. Lets see here. No ships on that side.....or that side. Ah, I found one."

Rias ears perked hearing that as she looked at him.

"Where is it?"

"Terminal four, the Hylin. It has a large enough cargo to carry the chamber."

"Good searching. Lets go find that ship then."

Before she left, she put her ship, Spirit, under the repair needed list before following the signs that pointed to terminal four. She arrived at the overhead balcony looking down as there were about twelve ships docked there.

"Which is the Hylin?"

"I don't know. Maybe putting out an ad for the _Hylin_will work in bringing the captain to us?"

"Good idea Rico. Do it."

"Already done. Just hope he or she replies. Time is of the essence."

//////

The todd hummed happily to himself. Piece of jerky in his muzzle sticking out the left side which he munched on a bit. His red tip tail twitched idly behind him as he stared at the cards in his paws. Diamond colored eyes looked at the other captains gathered around to play poker. This was the last hand and an important one. If he lost, he would be broke and lose the ability to eat and maybe the ability to get gas.

"_Alright Zack, if you lose this hand, your up shit's creek,"_he said to himself.

"Alright dummies, how many cards?" the shep said, dealing himself two cards.

Zack too two himself and frowned visibly seeing what he got as everybody looked at him with a smile.

"Alright, show your hands," the shep said.

Everybody laid their cards out. Lots of good hands, two pair, two four pair. He grinned before placing his cards down showing a flush.

"Lucky fucker," the cheetah growled, standing up from the chair he was sitting on.

"It's all about the tells," Zack said collecting the earnings.

"I'm gonna head out before I lose my as money. Good game fellas," an otter said walking back to his ship.

He watched them go, counting his winnings and smiled.

"Perfect. Just enough for gas and food," he said,getting off his stool and looking at the ship he piloted.

It may not be the best, but it did the job with ease. Sure it was a crap job, thanks to both the warring kingdoms of the Galaxy Empire and the Intergalactic Kingdom. Both of them were at war for control of the galaxy and its many planets.

The Galaxy Empire took things by brute strength and threats. If you weren't with them, you were against them. Their numbers were many. And those that tried to oppose them, were wiped out and replaced with others. The Intergalactic Kingdom was different. They did things by talks and negotiation. Planets that joined them prospered and thrived with trades and goods. They may not have the mass armies the GE had, they still held them at bay and were deadlocked for control.

And with all this going on, it made cargo transportation hard. You had to get a pass for both alliances. But if you were denied by either of them, and you tried to come into their airspace, you were shot down without question. Many cargo pilots were killed that way cause they wanted the money from the jobs they were on. He barely made ends meet himself, but he managed. He walked through the open cargo door, down the hall to the cockpit and plopped down in the pilot's seat. He flicked open a window, requesting for a fill up. That done, he left back out and towards the small shopping area, picking up some food which would last him for a few weeks. A beep from his watch caught his attention as he tapped it, seeing a message for a job as his tail wagged. Reading it, he smiled.

"Hmm, transport to the Laredo-7 system huh? Sounds simple enough," he said, replying to the message.

He headed back to his ship, placing the food in the fridge before fixing his appearance. He was not your average fox. His fur was purple except his chest which was the standard white. The tip of his tail was black as he combed himself down to look presentable. Dawning a nice pair of black pants and matching vest, he waited outside the ship for this Victoria Suarez.

"Seems like he responded," Rico said in Rias's ear piece.

"Good. Lets hope we can get going. We wasted enough time," she huffed.

"He'll be waiting outside his ship, docking bay five."

Rias nodded before heading down. Walking to the docking bay, she saw a fox standing by a ship, paws in his pockets as his tail twitched.

"_That must be him."_she thought as she walked up. "Hello, Zack Gideon?" she said extending her paw. "I'm Victoria Suarez. I'm the person who posted who ad."

Zack's ears perked as he looked to his right to see the husky walk up. He smiled before shaking her paw.

"That would be me. Pleasure to meet you. May I ask what the cargo is you want taken to Laredo-7 system? I need to make sure the weight is good for my ship."

She opened her mouth before closing.

"Its ahh.....kinda classified. But I can tell you the weight won't affect what you have in your current inventory or cause you to go overburdened."

Classified stuff? That made his tail twitch.

"Miss, I really don't like carrying illegal things on my ship. I'm clean and would like to keep it that way. And for a trip that long, I don't think that would be wise seeing as I have to pass checkpoints on the way since that system si close to one of the kingdoms. Now if you can't tell me what the cargo is, I'm afraid I can't accept the job. Its just how I am."

She let out a sigh at that, her own tail twitching.

"Look, I don't care how much it cost. Name your price and I'll match it. Hell, I'll even triple it. But I can't tell you what the cargo is unless you take the job," she said, looking at him sternly. "I know how to navigate checkpoints without getting caught. This isn't my first rodeo."

His ears perked at the word triple. "Triple the price? I could get that new warp drive and navigation system and have plenty of money left over." He mulled it over in his head before letting out a sigh and nodding.

"Alright. As much as I don't like to accept offers like this, but I'll do it. Now, where is this cargo you want me to carry?"

She let out a satisfied sigh hearing that. One obstacle down.

"Follow me. I docked in Terminal six. My ship is out of commission. Took some fire getting here resulting in a busted warp drive. But the cargo is still intact fortunately," Rias said as she lead them to her ship.

Zack nodded and followed her. He also took the chance to look her over. You could always judge a person by looking at them, and she carried herself quite well.

"I'm glad we could come to an agreement miss Victoria. Busted warp drive happens to the best of us. Glad the cargo is still in one piece."

"Yes. I was lucky to get out of there with it intact," she said, paws in his pockets. "And the feeling's mutual. I've got more then enough money. Unfortunately said money can't instantly fix a ship," she chuckled, arriving at where the _Spirit_was docked and opening the cargo door and walking in.

Zack let out a whistle as he saw the ship.

"Wow, this is an impressive piece of machinery. A shame the warp drive is busted," he said, walking in and looking around. "Man, I could use a ship like this. The space alone could carry tons of cargo and I could make some real money. Well, lets have a look at this precious cargo that you want me to carry."

"Thanks. It was an old army vessel I bought before they could scrap it. A quick re-fix here, some paint there, and she was looking brand new. Now about that cargo, it's this way."

She led him to the cargo bay and opened the door. Inside was a light grey container a big as a medium sized bedroom with one door leading in.

"There she is. The entire container can be lifted up and out of the ship," she smiled and walked towards the door, scanning a special key to open it. The inside resembled a small, old hospital room. There were two casket shaped containers with close tops and sides lifted up like hospital beds and some sort of cylindrical pod in the other corner, large enough to hold two normal sized people. Next to the door was a small work bench and chairs with drawers filled with syringes, medicine, and other stuff. "Behold."

Zack scratched his head looking at everything. Whatever this was, looked pretty damn expensive and would cost a hell of a lot to replace. Walking inside, he took out a notebook he had in his back pocket and started writing down everything that was in the container. He did this so if anything was missing by chance, he would have a record of it. He didn't know the names of everything, so he just made due and wrote down what he thought it would be.

"So the whole container can be lifted and moved without anything inside falling down and breaking?" he asked, looking at everything, making sure not to touch anything cause he didn't want to take any chances.

"Yep. Everything will remain intact when the container is transported to another ship. No worries."

Whatever this thing was, was pretty important for her not to tell unless he took the job. And when things like that happen, it could only mean one thing.

"May I ask who you are trying to keep it from and what it is?" Zack asked, still writing.

She took a breath before looking at the equipment.

"I suppose you deserve to know that much," she said, running a paw over one of the caskets feeling the cool metal. "I''m a citizen of the Intergalactic Kingdom and we are at war with the GE as you know. This......is our way to cure death. We call it, Project Chisenhall. We can bring back anyone who's died recently, but there's a catch. You have to rescue the body in a certain amount of time or else brain death occurs. To prevent this, the body is recovered and placed in that thing," she said nodding to the cylindrical pod. "Stalls the death process until a metal skeleton can be built and rapidly generating tissue can clone the old body's appearance. Once both are complete, the body is taken out of the tube and the brain is hooked up to a CPU in the body."

She took a breath before giving a soft smile.

"Everything is transferred, even the victim's consciousness. So it'll be like they never died. The GE wants this technology for themselves. This is the only Chisenhall unit or Bethany chamber that was made. I'm trying to get it to the IK so they can replicate the technology they developed in a far away region."

Zack tensed up and frowned hearing her explain everything. He didn't want no part of either kingdom. They're the reason he was suffering in the first place and couldn't get and good income.

"You're with the IK huh? No offense miss Victoria, but I really don't want to get involved between either of them. The whole reason I'm stuck doing what I'm doing is because of you two. I appreciate what you are trying to do with bringing back the dead so they can be reborn again and live a happy life. I really do. But getting mixed up in a battle between the two is pretty much stupid and down right dangerous. I mean, I could lose any chance of ever finding work again if I do help," he replied.

His brain started fighting with his body. He wanted to help, but he didn't want his name on either kingdom's hit list for cargo shippers. He shook his head before looking at her.

"I'm sorry miss Victoria, but I'm gonna have to decline your offer. I hope you find someone that will help you. Thank you for the offer," he said with a small bow of his head before walking out.

She frowned at that before grabbing his arm and spinning his around before he could leave.

"Listen to me," she hissed. "You have to help me. You are changing the tide of the entire conflict for the better."

She let go of his arm before sighing.

"Look, I don't have much influence, but I'm good friends with people who do. You do this for us......and you'll never have to worry about work again. I will do everything in my power to keep your name hidden. On behalf of the IK, you have our word."

She spoke from the heart and tried not to give away her real position. But she had to keep the fox around. Otherwise, she would be forced to steal someone's warp drive and possibly be torn into a million pieces as said warp drive turned out to be incompatible with her ship.

Zack looked into the husky's eyes and saw that she really needed to get this Chisenhall thing or whatever it was, back to her home place of operation. But to do that, he would have to go through some of GE airspace. And that would probably mean holes in his baby. He glanced at the machine which could very well as she said, change the tide of conflict for the better. He sighed again before chuckling at the dumb luck he wanted to fall in his lap.

"Alright. I'll do it. As much as don't want to. But if you say this will change the conflict for the better, then I would love to be a part of it. Even though I know I'm gonna need a new hyper drive system after this is all said and done. Probably gonna need a new ship once the GE finds out I'm helping you cause they're gonna chew her up. Very well miss Victoria, you just hired Zack Gideon, captain of the Hylin. Now, lets get her loaded and we'll take off asap."

She let a warm grin creep across her face.

"Thank you," she said with a voice full of gratitude. "Rico, can you unlock the docking port now," she called out to him as she slipped in her ship. "And your ship? Don't worry about it. We'll take care of everything once its all said and done. Once this is over.....hopefully you never have to hear from us again," she nodded and booted up the cargo transport system which involved activating two large crane drones that would carry the container.

Zack nodded his head watching the husky do her thing. He dug into his pocket and pulled out a little screen that lit up with a couple of taps. Pushing a couple of buttons, he inputted the flight details to the tower, requesting an immediate departure from the terminal once everything was done. He got the green light of approval as he smiled and set the device back into his pocket.

"We got the green light to go miss Victoria. Once we get this loaded, we leave immediately for the Laredo-7 system. The Hylin's all fueled up and ready to go!"

Victoria nodded and pulled out a tablet from the wall, maneuvering the cargo drones to pick up the container. Within seconds, the drones were hovering with the unit firmly in their grasp.

"Alright, ready for transport. Just open your cargo bay so I can move the container in."

She paused and led them out the Spirit's cargo bay, locking everything behind her. She gave it one last look before heading down to the Hylin with Zack. Zack pulled out his device again, hitting a few buttons as the cargo bay opened with a hiss, the ramp landing on the platform with a clank as he walked inside.

"Place it anywhere. I have more then enough room. I'll hop in the pilot's seat and get her warmed up," he said walking to the front of the ship and hopping in the captain's chair.

He slid the chair up to the front console, tapping and hitting switches as the engine purred to life. Slipping the headset on, he spoke to the control station.

"Control, this is Zack Gideon of the the Hylin requesting clearance to depart."

"Roger that Hylin. You are green to go. Have a good day and godspeed."

Victoria maneuvered the container inside the cargo area and sat it down in a clear space, the container securing itself to the floor with a magnet like device on the bottom.

"We're good to go here," she said cheerfully, leaving the drones in the_Hylin_ in the event that it needed to be moved again. "Let me run back and grab my things really fast."

She ran back to her ship, grabbing a few change of clothes, some personal items, a bag containing a few guns and yanked Rico's chip on the way back out. She stepped back inside the Hylin and closed the cargo door behind her, meeting Zack in the bridge. He motioned to the empty seat beside him.

"Please, have a seat while I take off."

The clank of the docking bridge unlatching caught his ears as he maneuvered his ship around and headed out to the void that is space. All he saw was the blinking of the stars as he punched in the destination.

"Okay, should be a couple of days before we reach Laredo-7 system is all goes well."

She nodded at that and took a seat, slipping Rico's chip into a nearby terminal. She gave a forlorn look at her badly damaged ship off in the distance. Even if the delivery was a success, it would be a long time before she'll see her vessel again.

"Alright. You don't mind if I plug in my AI do you?" she asked as Rico's small hologram appeared from the top of the small cylindrical terminal.

"Not at all. Just don't let him get carried away and try to control my baby," he smiles, flashing a toothy grin.

"Nah, he won't do that. For the most part, all he'll do is operate and weapons system on board in case of an emergency or take control of the engine should the need arise. Or he might set a course into the sun. Who knows?" she chuckled.

"Sounds good to me. I do have self defense on this ship and he's welcomed to handle it. There's an extra room in the back for you to use if you want. There's access to the shower as well as a bed. Its not the greatest in the world, but its comfy enough," he says flicking a few more switches and turning the auto pilot on. "Come, I'll show you," he said getting up and heading to the rear of the ship where the rooms were.

She smiled and grabbed her bag and followed him to a medium sized room with a bed covered in sheets, cover, and two pillows. A small dresser held a lamp that gave the room a soft glow to it.

"Bathroom is right next to the bed so its east access," he said pointing to the room next to the bed.

"Pretty," she said walking in and tossing her bags and sitting down with a stretch. She reached for one of the bags which held her clothes and took out a clean outfit that resembled that of a IGK ship captain without the patches or pins signifying these achievements. Zack looked at the outfit before chuckling.

"You don't have anything more casual? I know I shouldn't tell you how to dress, but you would look more comfortable in something a little more simple," he said before noticing the bandages on her arm and frowned. "You've been injured. Are you okay?"

"I don't carry dresses or miniskirts with me, as appealing as they may seem. Everything else in here is a pair of cargo pants, a tank top, or a jacket, as well as some other things that you don't need to worry about. And I like to save the pants for surface operations manly," she said before looking at her shoulder. "I'm fine. Just took a shot before I arrived at the station is all."

Zack frowned at that before shaking his head.

"Well that won't do. Don't like having my passengers bleeding on my ship. Makes me look bad," he says walking out, coming back a few moments later with a first aid kit. "May I patch you up? I promise not to do anything rash."

Victoria let a frown creep across her muzzle. She had already taken out the bullet, but some extra patchwork might be in order.

"Fine," she said with a reluctant growl, sitting on the edge of the bed. She carefully undid her bandages, biting her tongue as the wound gave off a burning sensation.

He looked at the wound as she undid the bandages and frowned.

"Yeah, you removed the bullet. But that look infected," he says sitting next to her.

Opening the kit, he took out some spray and sprayed her shoulder. Once that was done, he applied some salve before wrapping her shoulder. Her fur felt soft to the touch as he finished with a smile.

"All done. I'll be in the front and let you wash up."

"Thank you. Oh, and if you're worried about your payment, Rico is wiring it through as we speak."

He gave a smile at that, closing the kit and standing up before walking out, giving her a smile and closing the door. Walking into the bridge, he plopped down in his seat before looking at Rico who looked back then out into the vacuum of space. He tapped a couple of buttons and looked at his account before whistling.

"Damn, she wasn't kidding about the pay. But something seems off for some reason," he sighs as his ears perked up at the sound of the shower going off.

Victoria stripped down in the bathroom after closing the door, the shower running as the steam started to fog the mirror. Hopping in, she couldn't help the murr that escaped her as the water ran down her fur. Her paws ran over her body, letting the water get everywhere, even to where she was a little bit ashamed of. She let out a soft whine before shaking her head and finishing her shower. Feeling like herself, she stepped out and used the fur dryer to dry off before stepping into the room and sitting on the bed to comb her fur down.

Rico watched Zack take a seat before giving a smile as he mesmerized the defense system and all the mechanics of the ship.

"I take it she's getting settled in?"

"Yeah. I patched her shoulder up a little better and she's cleaning up to wash the blood off," he smiles, leaning back in the chair as it creaked a little. "I hope you find the defense system to your liking. I know she's a little old, but she does have a nasty bite. How'd you happen to get involved with her?"

Rico paused for a moment to think of a background as various screens popped around him as he read more about the defense system.

"She was hired by the royal family a little over a year ago to transport their cargo because of her favorable military history. I was created by the IGK on a small colony world of Morgana just after the king and queen hired her. As in customary to develop good relation between AI and captain. They bared my personality after her good friend," he grinned before before closing the screens around him, "AI's are created all the time for military operations and ships. Even small destroyers and frigate have a captain's personal AI running most of the system."

"I see. I kinda figured she was in military, but never figured she was hired by the royal family. Wow. No wonder she made good on her promise of triple the pay," he chuckles. "I never had an AI before so forgive me for being a little defensive about some things. How bad does the GE want that thing I'm carrying? Bad enough to wipe us of the map?"

Rico was quiet for a moment as he closed one of the screens.

"You're close. They want it badly, but they don't want to risk destroying it. The project itself can turn the tide of this conflict for whoever gets it."

He pulled up holograms of GE boarding ships as they rotated in a circle.

"That's where these things come in. They'll intimidate you with their big battleships and cruisers, but they really just want to hijack your ship. They only fired on the Spirit when we tried to escape. But don't worry. I know how to deal with them."

"Good. The less damage to my baby, the happier I'll be," he says sternly, writing down notes as he studies the screen. "Are there any weak points in their structures that I could use to take them down?"

"Weak points? The boarding crafts might as well be made of glass. They're small in size, but large in quantity. They'll try to forcefully dock to every port available on the ship. Some of the smaller guns on this ship should be able to take some of them with relative ease. Just gotta keep an eye out. The boarding ships are fast."

Rico pulled his archive and located the file on the GE navy.

"I'm transferring all data I contain on the GE fleet and weaponry to the_Hylin_ database as we speak. By the way, once all is said and done.....I'm sure her highness, Rias La'elca will want to meet with you in Laredo-7 to commend you for your actions."

Zack pulls up the info screen, reading away with careful eyes.

"Wow, they are fast. But my guns are faster," he grins swiping through the various files and studying them before his ears perked. "Wait, princess? You mean I get to meet the princess of the Laredo-7 system?"

"Not just the system. I mean the princess of the entire IGK. Though I depend if the king deems you worthy of meeting her," he chuckled.

"Well that sounds like a date I can't refuse. I can't wait to meet her."

His tail wagged happily at the prospect. With a princess on his side, he could very well get a brand new ship. Victoria stepped into the bridge looking cleaner and much better as she had he hands in her pockets.

"What are you two talking about?" she asked curiously, brushing her hair to the side.

His ears swiveled at Victoria's voice as he turned to her and kinda just stared. She was actually quite beautiful cleaned up.

"Um....we were just chatting about a few things."

Rico gave a small wave to Victoria as she entered and took a seat.

"Hello Victoria. Feeling better I hope?" he asked.

"Much better. Thank you."

"Would you care for something to eat? After winning that poker game, I managed to get enough food for a few weeks."

"Sure. That sounds great."

Zack smiled before getting up and heading to the kitchen, digging into the kitchen and pulling out various things to make some stir fry. Gathering the stuff, he heated up the stove before placing the various veggies and meat on the table to cut up. Once that was done, he tossed them in the skillet with some with butter as they sizzled. He hummed a bit as he stirred everything, adding some seasoning. Victoria's nose picked up the smell as her tail wagged.

"Wow, that smells good."

Zack chuckled as he added the finishes touches to the meal before serving them on plates.

"Here you go. Dig in."

She munched down happily with a happy wag. Zack looked at her with a smile as they ate in silence.

"Thank you again for taking the job," she said after a bit.

"Not a problem. You made good on the pay and I'll delivery you to Laredo-7 as promised."

She finished her food and let out a sigh.

"Thanks for food. I'm gonna lay down and get some rest. Its been a long day for me," she said, getting up and heading towards the guest room. With a sigh, she laid down, a soft murr coming from her at the soft pillows on her head as she closed her eyes.

Zack watched her before finishing his food. Once he was done, he grabbed both plates and took them back to wash them. Once that was done, he went back to the captain's seat and sat there, stomach full and feeling good. He stared into the empty void of space, mind wondering to and fro until his console started to blink.

"Looks like we're coming up to a GE checkpoint."

"Leave that me. I know all the codes for safe passages," Rico said.

The ship slowly approached the large station checkpoint that appeared to be a giant ring that he had to fly through. Rico opened a few screens as the speaker came to life.

"This is GE checkpoint YZ576. Please present the code and license to continue."

"This is Hylin heading to Laredo-7 system. Here is the information you require," Rico responded, sending everything over.

"Everything seems to be in order. You may proceed Hylin."

"Thank you. Let's go Zack," Rico said with a grin.

Zack smiled before pushing his ship through the checkpoint.

"I guess are some good reasons to have AI's on board a ship."

"Not all AI's are good. Some do go rouge."

"You guys actually go rouge? Probably the reason I never thought about getting one. Besides, I prefer in doing things myself. But I can understand about having large vessels and needing that extra help," he chuckled, reviewing the ship details again of the GE. Some of them could wreck havoc on his baby if they got to close.

"Some of us can, yes. But cases aren't terribly extreme and it only really happens near the end of an AI's lifespan. We can become uncooperative, prone to malfunction, and, in more extreme cases, attempt to sabotage the ship we're stationed on. There's always a way to stop the AI from doing to much damage however. Be it in the ship's systems or the backup AI. Nothing terrible comes out of a rouge AI in most cases," Rico shrugged and kept his attention out the window.

Zack pressed a button on the chair as soft music started playing from the console as his eyes continued to study everything. It wasn't until about an hour past the checkpoint that his console started to blink red making him jump in surprise.

"Shit. I thought you said we would be okay going past the checkpoint?" he growls, taking the auto pilot off and grabbing the control. He flicked a few switches as a screen showed four ships closing in and fast. "Seems like they want that badly."

Rico frowned as the console began flashing.

"We.....should be," he said pulling up the exterior views of the ship and a diagram of the surrounding vessels. "Not good. Those are GE ships. Four light frigates with a small amount of boarding craft in their bays." He squinted at the view of the other ships and shook his head. "I'm not sure how they got past the checkpoint. So unless they found a way to copy our cloaking technology or make one of their own...." Rico paused and opened a comm link to Victoria's room. "Rico to Victoria. Get to the bridge, now!"

The ships closed in fast as Zack heard the beeps coming from the console as he gritted his teeth.

"My money's on the second choice," he says hitting a few buttons on his console causing the ship's engine to hum louder. "Seems like they are locked and loaded. I'll be damn if they scratch my baby. I just hope my hyper drive can kick in before they get to close."

"If it doesn't, I've got the defense systems at the ready. Those frigates are glass cannons. I'll do what I can to avoid major damage. You got shields on this ship?" he asked as the door to the bridge opened seconds later as Victoria jogged in.

"What's going on?" she asked.

"Yeah," he says hitting a few button as a small window popped up displaying the ship along with a bubble around it. "I always keep my baby protected. Its all I have in my life that means everything to me," he smiles before hearing an alarm and looking back at Victoria. "Your buddies found us and they aren't in the talking mood," Zack said pushing his ship faster.

"Perfect. I'm going to divert as much non-essential power to the shields and hyper as I can," Rico said, decreasing the power consumption from other systems and even siphoned some from the back up generators, diverting them to the shields and drive. "Victoria, get to one of the stations and help me shoot down incoming torpedoes and boarding crafts."

She nodded as she rushed over to the chair and hopping in it, attaching the headset with the targeting sight on it.

"And here I thought it was going to be easy," Zack chuckles, watching the power gauge on the hyper drive go up to eighty three percent before a loud bang was heard, shaking the ship a little as the gauge went down slowly. "God dammit, don't do this to me now baby," he growls, unbuckling his belt and jumping over the seat. "Of all the times to do this, you choose now," he says rushing down the ship's hall towards the engine room.

Victoria was at the guns, taking aim and shooting down the oncoming torpedoes when she heard the bang.

"Shit. What the hell happened? Did the drive shut down?" she yelled.

She let out a growl as she got up from the seat. She already knew the answer, but wanted to see the severity of the malfunction.

"Rico, take the guns. Once those frigates come in range, activate Protocol fifty three: Spin Cycle," she said, leaping out of her seat after transferring controls back to him and ran after the fox to the engine room.

Zack growled angrily seeing the smoke coming the drive.

"Fuck. I was hoping you would last longer but I guess the patch job I was barely able to pay for could only last so long. What the hell else could go wrong?" he grunts before hearing Victoria. "The hyper drive blew a fuse. I wanted to get a new one once this job was over."

He uncovers the panel as smoke filled his vision. He did have the old fuse he took out and saved but it was a fifty fifty chance it would even still work. Victoria ran into the engine room and saw the smoking jump drive, stopping a few feet from the fox.

"Got any spare fuss lying around? I can help you rig a fix that can get us to a safe sector of IGK controlled space. If my calculations are correct and with a little bit of luck, I can jump us to the gas giant Murdoch four. We can get repairs on the mining platform there."

"Yeah. Check the storage box on the wall. I usually keep all the fuses either good, bad, or still working. I'll try and get some of this fire under control," he growls, grabbing a fire extinguisher. "I should've know this wouldn't be a fun trip."

She nodded and ran towards the box, opening it and searching for a good fuse. At that moment, a large bang came from outside the ship and it rocked viciously for a few seconds before stabilizing.

"You're not gonna like what I'm about to do," Rico said over the intercom. "But its our only option."

At this, the ship began to roll. It quickly picked up speed and the sound of the guns extending could be heard. GE boarding craft streamed out the ships, making a beeline for the Hylin. He was gonna spin the ship and fire the guns simultaneously, making it harder for the boarding craft to dock and dealing damage to the main ships. Though in order to get a good damage output from the guns and a fast roll, Rico had to drastically divert the ship's power from the shields to other systems. Zack let out a yelp as he grabbed onto the nearest sturdy thing he could find as his stomach flipped making him a little sick from the suddenness of it.

"A little warning next time would be good," he barked out. "What's the situation out there? What's going on?" he asks, finally getting the fire under control and accessing the damage making him grimace. "Crap, the fire did a good bit of damage to the system,but nothing serious. If you're going do what you said you were, you better be quick. I'll try and work on this mess."

Victoria nodded, grabbing a tool and the best fuse she could find and ran back over to the drive. It was rather tricky thank to the spinning, but she reached the drive and got to work.

"Just doing whatever I can to keep us from getting boarded. If they dock just one ship, we're done for. Noway we can fight off a boarding party from inside."

Victoria ripped out the old fuse and tossed it to the side, clearing out all other unnecessary junk lying around in the drive. She place the replacement fuse in the slot and attached it to the system, wiring other components together.

"Almost there. Once I give you the word, I need you to diver all power to the shield and the drive Rico. Need all the shields we can get or else we'll be torn apart by the vortex. Long story short, we need to kill the guns and jump immediately after I give the all clear."

Zack didn't like the idea of being torn apart from a vortex as a small whine escaped him. He couldn't believe this was happening. All he wanted was a simple job, now look what's happening. He tapped his wrist where his watch was as a small screen appeared showing the ship's vital.

"She taking a beating, but she's sturdy. But if we stay here any longer, she won't be. It's all yours Rico," he says tapping a button to let him assume full control which he couldn't believe he was doing.

"Got it, thanks. Victoria, just give me the word and we're out of here. Coordinates for Murdoch-IV plotted in."

Another loud bang was heard and the ship rocked once again. Victoria connected a few more wires and quickly inspected her work before closing up the box.

"Its good! Unless you want radiation poisoning from that thing, I suggest we get back to the bridge. Fast!" she said, nodding to the fox and waiting by the door.

"Don't have to tell me twice," he says, hurrying out the room and down to the bridge and took his seat, strapping on the belt. "Let it go Rico and pray that it gets us out of here in time."

Victoria strapped herself in after running in.

"Rico, do it now!"

Almost immediately, Rico powered up the shields and the ship lurched into warp just before multiple cannon rounds could reach the ship's hull. Zack gripped the armrests tightly, feeling the sudden lurch making his stomach lurch again in his body. The space outside the window distorted as the ship went into warp.

"Man, that was too close."

Victoria grit her teeth as the ship jumped. She closed her eyes and felt a sick feeling in her stomach. She slowly leaned forward and covered her face with her hands.

"....Fuck. Oh fuck," she muttered, the reality of how narrow their escape was setting in.

Zack sighed heavily before looking at his guest.

"Well, I guess that was a little too close for comfort. Good work back there. How are you feeling?"

She mumbled something into her hands before letting out a heavy sigh of her own.

"Just......shocked. That was way to close. Rico's the reason we're even alive right now," she said softly, tapping her foot against the floor. "I never should have dragged you into this. I'm sorry."

Zack folded his ears at that before reaching over slowly and taking a hold of her paw and giving it a reassuring squeeze.

"To be dead honest, I really don't mind. I know that what I'm doing is helping people in the long run so its worth everything. I knew the risks when I agreed. Don't be sorry cutie. You look better smiling," he nods his head with a smile before looking at the screen seeing the planet. He opened a screen before tapping a few buttons and letting out a grunt. "They did some damage to her alright."

She glanced at the paw on hers, remaining silent for a few moments before giving a smile.

"All right. Thank you."

"Rico, I'll let you guide us in while I access the damage visually," he says getting up and heading to the back.

"You might want to wait until we land. Unless you have a suit that can resist atmospheric entry," she said.

"I'm not going out there. I have a little scanner one of my 'associates' loaned me to see outside without having to actually put on a suit," he says, walking over to the wall and pressing a couple of buttons.

A clank was heard outside as a metal arm scanned the ship up and down, showing a screen with everything wrong.

"Several holes in the hull. Shield barely holding on. Engine output down to thirteen. Weapons depleted. I'd say it was a good day," he laughs at the joke.

She walked over and looked at the screens silently, seeing all the damage.

"Well, I'd say we got out of there rather unscathed."

"I'm sealing off the breached segments now," Rico said, letting a smile creep on his face. "We got permission to land. With any luck, there will be a Stewart-class repair drone ready to assist us once we dock. Those things can fix major damage in mere hours."

"That can do. But I can't afford those things, so I settled on something simple. But with the money you gave me, I can afford it and a new hyper drive if they have it," he smiles happily. "Land us Rico and lets get my baby repaired so we can get this thing back to your planet. And maybe get something to eat also while we're there."

//////

The_Hylin_ made its jump into hyper drive as the man watching it let out a scoff.

"What's the damage report?" he said, still looking at the screen.

"Two frigates badly damaged and we lost one. The other is barely holding on as we are transferring everyone," the skunk said with a headset on.

A tiger walked up the man, arms crossed.

"What now? We have no clue on where they went."

"I know that. Again we lose our chance to secure the Chisenhall. She is making it very difficult."

"Nothing is easy," the tiger grinned.

"Spare me the jokes," the man groaned

"So what do we do now?"

"I might have an idea," an otter spoke up before saluting.

"Well out with it Kenny."

Kenny nodded before speaking up.

"I could get on the wire and find out who the ship belongs to and where they are going to dock at. It took heavy damage and would take a bit to get repaired at any station regardless of how good the drones are."

The man rubbed his chin before nodding.

"Sounds better then scanning around for days. Make it happen."

"Yes sir," Kenny said sitting down and putting on a headset.

The man looked at the screen, seeing the the wreck of his fleet before grunting.

"We'll get you sooner or later."

///////

The_Hylin_ broke the atmosphere as Rico maneuvered the ship around to the station.

"We got clearance to land. Setting her down in dock eleven."

The ship landed with a thump as Zack powered her down, hitting switches before letting out a sigh. Unhooking the belt, he stood up before heading to the back, letting the ramp down. Victoria followed him out as they were greeted by a bear and weasel.

"Greetings and welcome to Murdoch-IV. Your ship took quite a beating I see," the bear chuckled.

"Yeah, you could say that," Zack said looking at his ship, seeing the damage.

"I'll handle the cost of repairs. Don't worry about it. You might need your money for yourself later on," Victoria smiled.

"What are we doing to her?"

"The works. Also put in a new hyper drive system."

"You got it. Okay boys, lets get to work."

The weasel nodded as he approached the ship before grabbing a small TV screen, hitting a few buttons as several drones started to glow and float around the ship, scanning it.

"Well my lady, shall we find something to appease our stomachs while she's getting worked on?" Zack asked.

She nodded her head before putting on her small earpiece.

"Sounds good to me. Rico, don't leave without us."

"No promises. You're kinda expendable," he chuckled back.

"Just don't get to familiar with my baby. She's sensitive to probing," Zack grins as Rico winked before fading.

The smell of various rocks and metals were high in the air as he looked around. This planet was well known for it mining and mineral collecting. People were transporting payloads of rocks around or chatting with one another.

"I think I see a place to eat down there," she said pointing to a dome off in the distance a short ways.

"Lets go then," he smiled.

They set off for the dome together, tails wagging happily.

"So tell me a little bit about yourself Zack. What made you become a transporter?"

Zack chuckled before looking at her.

"I like traveling. Seeing different planets and cultures was always something I wanted to do since I was a kit, looking into the night sky on my home world."

"Where is that?"

"Ala Mingho system. Its not a well known planet, but we made good with out farming abilities and trades."

"Ala Mingho. I visited that system before. Just passing through though. It looked like a great planet."

Zack smiled at that, remembering the beautiful landscape.

"It is. There's a spot I always go to at night to look into the sky, waiting for the day to go into space. Maybe once this is all over, and you have free time, you could visit? My mother makes a mean lasagna.

She smiled at that as they reached the dome, various smells hitting their noses making their stomach growl.

"That sound lovely. I can't wait," she replied, looking at the various stands and buildings. "What shall we get to eat?"

"As long as I don't throw up, I'm game for anything here," he chuckled back.

They both decided on a stand that was serving stew. Getting a bowl each, they found a seat and sat down, digging into the thick stew with various vegetables and meat.

"I never been on this planet. Seems like a working man's planet."

"Indeed. While this is not our main mining sector, its one of the newest. Created tons of jobs for people throughout the kingdom. In fact princess Rias was a huge proponent of the project, supplying a good deal of funding and even being the one to appeal the assimilation of the planet in the first place," she said, remembering the day she was approached with the plans."

"Wow. Sounds like this princess really is a great lady. Can't wait to meet her one day. To be able to create so much opportunity for people is a real blessing in this day and age."

She nods at his comment, feeling weird tooting her own horn like that but she was just trying to keep her cover.

"Yeah, that's what they say. She does a lot of charity stuff like that and frequently visits impoverished towns."

They sat in silence after that as Zack looked at her. She seemed distant as if something troubled her.

"Is there something wrong? Anything you wish to talk about? Or are you still a little shook up about what happened earlier?" he asked softly.

She took a sip of her tea before glancing up at him and giving a small shrug.

"I dunno know. Just ready to go home. The past month has been incredibly stressful," she said, drumming her fingers against the table before sighing. "Even if just a fleeting glance. I'm ready to see home again."

"I understand what you're going through. Even though I call my parents once a week, I would love to see home again. I just hope we don't run into anymore interference so I can get you home. Do you have that special someone waiting for you when you get back?" he asked, even though it wasn't his business. He just wanted to keep her on the positive side of things.

"Not exactly. Kinda hard to develop meaningful relationships with people when you're off planet all the time," she chuckled.

"I can see how that can me problematic," he smiles. "I'm usually doing jobs on different planets to have that significant other in my life. Even though I wouldn't mind it. Gets lonely in that ship sometimes. Hell, even having an AI like Rico would be on long trips."

She nods at that, finishing her food with a sigh.

"Yeah. Rico is good for some companionship, but he's more of assistant then anything. Like a robotic butler or something like that," she said. "Though I know what you mean. Once I decide I had enough of space, I'll probably go home and settle down."

"Well then, lets hope the lucky person treats you like the queen you are," he smiles, looking into the sky, seeing the stars shine brightly. "As for me, I'm gonna continue doing what I do best."

"Once we get back, maybe I'll ask to see if you can be our main transporter."

His ears perked at that.

"That would be awesome/ Would save me worrying about trying to find work. I think the repairs should be down so lets head back," he said standing up.

She nodded and stood also, grabbing their trash and tossing it before heading back.

//////

The large frigate entered the atmosphere as the man looked at the screen.

"Are you sure this is the place?" he asked.

"Yes sir. It says the ship is done being fixed and ready to departure as soon as the pilot gets back."

"Good. Send two squads down to secure the ship and them. But remember, the item must not be damaged in anyway."

Two small ships were launched, heading towards the hub station.

"Also, setup a jamming signal. Don't want the AI to let them know we're coming."

Rico watched the repair drones and mechanics fix the ship up. It almost looked brand new as he smiled.

"Perfect. We'll get back in plenty of time now."

A small red light started to flash on the terminal as he looked at it. Opening a screen, his eyes went wide as he saw the GE ships dock and soldiers flood out.

"Shit," he cursed, locking the ship and applying a shield before contacting Victoria.

"Just a freak question," Zack said as they headed for the ship. "But what kind of person would interest you when you settle down."

She looked at him with a chuckle as he threw his hands behind his head, giving a whistle.

"Well, I haven't given much thought. I guess someone who's strong enough to take care of himself and me, yet able to realize that I can fight my own battles as well. Trustworthy, cute, I dunno. I'll figure out the rest," she shrugged.

She blushed a little before shaking her head and cleared her throat.

"Let me change the topic real quick. You'll need this information."

Before she could speak, Rico tried contacting her.

"Vic......forces.....here."

"Rico? I can't understand you. You're breaking up. Repeat."

"......here....look...."

"What's wrong Rico. Can you hear me?"

She got no answer as she cursed.

"I can't h ear him anymore. Something must be wrong. Lets head back quickly."

Before she could move, Zack grabbed her arm and went behind a building.

"What are you....."

"Shush. We have company," he says, looking out and down from where they came from to see soldiers in black and sliver uniforms.

Victoria looked and let out a curse.

"Shit, GE forces. How did they find us?"

"Good question we'll figure out later. We need to get back."

She nodded her head as they kept to the shadows. Making sure the way was clear before moving on. Zack made it to the dome's edge as looked and cursed.

"They have my ship surrounded. I hope Rico locked her down."

"Pretty sure he did."

"Hey!! I found them. Over here!!"

They both let out yip before going full sprint as soldiers converged on their location. They jumped over carts and evaded people while keeping their heads down as shots whizzed past them.

"They must be crazy to shoot in here. They'll shatter the glass," Zack shouted.

"Those are paralyzing rounds. Won't affect the glass."

"Wonderful," he said, turning a corner before they both came to a halt as they saw soldiers in front of them, guns at the ready.

They turned around to see more soldiers converge on them.

"Give it up. We have you surrounded."

A small growl came out both their muzzles as they slowly raised their paws.

"March. The commander has been looking for you for awhile now."

Spectators looked on as they were lead back to the docking bay area where they had the Hylin secured, a soldier trying to get in.

"What's the access code?" the soldiers asked looking at Zack.

"Fuck you."

He let out a yip feeling a strong knock on the back of his head sending him to one knee.

"Either tell us, or we'll tear it apart."

Zack was quiet as the soldier grunted.

"Fine. Tether the ship and we'll bring it along for spare parts along with them."

They got pushed along towards a waiting ship as they got flanked on either side by a soldier. The _Hylin_was tethered by strong magnets and carried into space towards the large frigate. The bay doors opened as they glided in before coming to a stop and landing. They walked out as Zack saw his ship get dragged onto the floor making him snarl.

"I just got her fixed you fuckers."

"We've only just began maggot. Either tell us the code, or we'll strip it screw by screw."

"That's enough," a strong voice said.

They looked to the right to see a man approach, hands in his pocket as he smiled.

"General Rain," Victoria growled.

Rain gave a smile as he looked at Victoria.

"We finally got you. You were a hard person to find."

"That's the point," she growled.

He chuckled before looking at Zack.

"And I take it this is your bodyguard? He's kinda bland."

"He's just a cargo transporter."

"Resorting to using common rabble now? How far you sunk princess."

She flinched at that as Zack tilted his head.

"Princess? I think you got the wrong lady. Why in the world would I be carrying a princess on my ship?"

Rain laughed at that, shaking his head.

"Poor fool. Take a good look at princess Rias La'alca of the Intergalactic Kingdom."

His eyes went wide as he looked at her. She had her ears down and looked away. He was carrying a princess all this time and didn't know it.

"I take it by that reaction he had no idea. No matter. She'll make a great bargaining chip."

"What do we do with his ship sir? We can't bypass security and their shield is covering it," a soldier said.

Rain looked at Zack who looked back.

"Open you ship."

"Forget it."

"There are ways to hurt you," he said, taking his hands out of his pockets.

He tapped his wrist where a device was a screen popped up. He scrolled through a few screens, eyes looking at Zack a few times before back at the screen, coming to a stop.

"Ah, here we go. Zack Gideon. Age twenty five and a cargo transporter for almost five years with no record. But we can charge that can't we?"

He grinned before pressing a few buttons on the screen causing his GE license to get revoked.

"I just revoked your license and made it so you can never get another one. So the moment you fly through into our zone, you will be shot down on sight."

Zack growled at that, paws balling into fists.

"Take his ship to our station in Ford. We'll bring the princess back to headquarters. In the meantime, show our guests to their quarters," he said, walking away.

"March," a soldier said, pushing them forward.

They marched forward down several halls until they came to an empty cell where they were promptly pushed into as a bar of lasers covered the door.

"Make yourselves comfortable. We have a long ride," the soldier laughed before walking away.

Zack took a seat, a steady growl in his throat. Rias sat opposite of him, ears down and tail limp.

"Zack, I'm....."

"Save it. I heard enough lies."

"I didn't mean to. But you have to understand my position."

He let out a huff as before standing up and walking to the bars.

"I tried hard to keep clean so I can make a living. Now I'm screwed."

"I'll make it up to you. I promise," she said softly.

"Sure you will," he says, tapping along the bar walls before hearing a faint, hollow sound in the bottom right corner.

Once he found it, he dug into his pocket, grabbing a switch blade and prying opening the small panel. Inside were a bunch of wires.

"What are you doing?" she asked.

"Getting out of here," he said, grabbing the wires and splicing them open the blade.

"I didn't know you could do that," she said getting up and walking over.

"I learned a few things during my deliveries," he says letting out a curse from a shock as he shook his paws. He grabbed the wires again, fiddling with them before the bars fizzled and disappeared. Standing up, he looked at her as her ears were still folded. "Once I get my ship and deliver your cargo, I don't want to see your face again. But then again, I probably won't."

She nodded her head softly. He peeked out the door seeing the coast was clear before quickly and quietly moving back the way they came, hiding in dark corners to avoid patrols.

"Making it back to the cargo bay isn't gonna be easy. Then again, what is?" Zack growled.

It felt like hours as they crept towards the bay area, but they made it eventually, hiding behind some crates.

"We need to borrow a ship while mine is still close by," he said, looking at his wrist and tapping his watch which showed a blue blip getting further away.

"How about that one? They are loading stuff inside and we could slip in," Rias said pointing to a ship that soldiers were loading crates.

"Sounds like a plan," Zack said looking around seeing everybody was busy with various things.

Looking around the area, they saw the crates that were being loaded. And as luck would have it, there was an open one. Carefully and quietly, they inched their way to the crate before hopping in and hiding under the various objects inside.

"Alright, this is the last one to be loaded. Get it on and lets get going," they heard a voice say as they held their breath.

They felt the crate move and shift about before becoming still. Just as the cargo bay door for the ship was closing, they heard the alarm sound.

"Shit. I hope they take off," Zack grunted.

Luckily for them, they felt the ship shake before taking off. They waited for a few minutes before Zack opened the crate and looked around, seeing the coast was clear. He hopped out first and helped Rias out as they made eye contact briefly before he turned.

"Lets go," he huffed out.

She nodded weakly before following him out as they made their way to the bridge. It was going smoothly until they ran into a soldier who looked shocked just as much as they did. He went for his weapon just as Zack pounced on him. They struggled for a bit, shots being fired as the bullets got embedded into the ships interior. Zack managed to get the upper hand by slamming his elbow into the soldier face a few times which dazed him enough to loosen his grip on the weapon. He grabbed it before turning it towards the soldier, firing shots that went into chest killing him.

"Adam are you okay!? I heard shot being fired," another soldier yelled rushing towards them.

Zack let out a curse before aiming down the hall. Just as soon as the other soldier turned the corner, he fired away, downing the soldier quickly.

"Come on. We have to get to the bridge," he said as Rias nodded.

They took off in a short sprint towards the bridge. They stopped short from the bridge door as Zack peeked in from the side only to pull away quickly as shots were fired, pinging on the metal.

"I don't know who you are. But you picked the wrong ship to hijack fuckers."

Zack checked the gun he was carrying, seeing he only had a few shots left. He did another peek and saw the guy crouched behind the chair, right next to a fire extinguisher. Letting out a breath, he leaned out from cover, firing at the canister as the smoke hit the soldier making him jump from his hiding spot. Just before his vision was obscured, he fired what was left into the soldier's body dropping him.

"You would make a great soldier," Rias said with a chuckle.

"Not happening," he replied walking in and sitting down in the pilot's seat.

He tapped the console as a screen appeared and inputted the coordinates of his ship. A map appeared showing a red dot getting further away.

"Okay, they haven't gone far. We should catch up with them pretty quickly," he said grabbing the controls and heading towards his ship.

After about fifteen minutes on full throttle, they saw the ship in the distance.

"There she is," Zack smiled, happy to see his ship again.

The radio crackled to life over the speaker as the other ship hailed them.

"Hey Webb. You got stuck with escort duty huh?" the soldier chuckled.

"Yeah. You could say that," Zack grinned.

"That's not Webb. Who are you? Identify yourself."

"Here's my ID," Zack said, nodding to Rias who had controls over the on board weapons.

She took aim, making sure not to hit the _Hylin_as she fired away, connecting with several shots that damaged the hull. Another shot was fired severing the magnetic clamps that were holding the ship as Rias hit her earpiece.

"Rico can you hear me?"

"Victoria!!? Thank god. I assumed the worst has happened."

"Oh ye of little faith. Start the ship and get ready to open the boarding hatch."

"You got it."

The_Hylin_ came to life as the lights came on. Zack smiled when he saw her as he positioned the docking bay arm to the hatch, hearing the hiss as it got sealed.

"You go ahead. I'm gonna set this thing back to that frigate," Zack said punching in the coordinates.

Rias nodded and headed to the back where the docking passage was and walked through.

"_Welcome back,"_Rico said with relief.

"Good to be back. Once Zack gets here, lets go home."

Zack finished inputting the coordinates, making sure that it was in a straight collision course before smashing the console as sparks flew along with various wisps of smoke. Getting up, he hurried down to the docking passage. Just as he entered, a shot rang out as he howled in pain from the searing pain that came from his side. He collapsed against the wall, paw holding his left side as it got covered in crimson blood. A snarl left him as he looked over to see a soldier on the floor, gun pointed in his direction.

"Got.....you," the soldier chuckled weakly, the last of his strength leaving as he dropped his head.

Zack got light headed as he held onto the wall. It couldn't end like this could it? He slid to the floor, eyes getting heavy as he struggled to stay awake.

"Zack?" Rias called to him, feeling the ship get pulled and turned, heading back the way they came.

She hurried through the arm to the GE ship, a gasp escaping her as she him on the floor.

"Zack!!" she yipped, hurrying over and kneeling down. "Can you hear me? Speak to me."

He let out a soft whine.

"Fuck. Not....like....this," he whimpered.

"You won't die. Not if I have anything to say about it. Get on your feet you asshole. You made a promise to deliver my cargo," she growled, throwing his arm around his neck and helping him up despite his whines of pain.

"I had.....to make that promise.....huh?" he chuckled weakly, stumbling through the arm before reaching his ship.

She lead him to the his room and laid him down. After that, she got up and hurried to the docking arm, disconnecting it as the the ship sped off into the horizon.

"Rico take us home stat. We need to get him medical attention. I'll do what I can here."

"_Roger that,"_Rico said, putting the ship into hyper drive.

She hurried back into Zack's room to see his eyes closed.

"Zack?" she yipped, rushing over and checking his pulse seeing it very weak. "Don't you give up on me."

She tore his shirt off, seeing the blood cover his white chest. Without wasting time, she grabbed the first aid kit and got to work, patching him up. She couldn't get the bullet out sadly. So she gave him something to put him sleep until she got him proper treatment.

"Hang on Zack. I got you."

///////

Zack let out a soft whine as he opened his eyes. His head moved back and forth slowly, seeing he was in a small room on a bed. A window was to his left as the sun casted its rays insides, giving it a source of heat. A beeping caught his attention as he looked to see he was hooked up to a monitor. His mind for foggy as he tried to remember what happened. As he tried, the door opened as Rias walked in holding a cup and blowing into it. When she saw his eyes open, she smiled and walked over, taking a seat in chair provided.

"Hey. How you feeling?" she asked softly.

"Light headed and hungry. Where are we?"

"On the hub station Algo a few days away from Laredo system. You were losing to much blood and had to get better treatment then what I could do."

He closed his eyes and sighed.

"So much for getting you there in a timely manner," he chuckled weakly before grunting.

She chuckled with him, happy to see him smile.

"Listen Zack. I want to apologize...."

"Save it," he said. "You did what you had to do to get the job done. I don't blame you for doing what you did."

"Still doesn't make it right," she said, ears halfway down.

"What's done is done. Water under the bridge. Now when can I get out of here?"

She looked at him before smiling.

"Another day or so. The doctor said none of your vitals were hit but you lost a lot of blood."

He nodded at that.

"The sooner I get out of here, the better. I hate hospitals."

"Same. Get some rest and we'll head out with the doctor's okay."

Another nod from him as he closed his eyes, sleep hitting almost instantly.

//////

Zack let out a soft grunt as he flipped some switches. Despite doctor's orders, he was discharged as he sat in his ship.

"Are you sure you should be moving?" Rias asked.

"I'm fine. Just a little sore. Besides, you've been probing my baby enough," he grinned looking at Rico who shrugged.

"Shucks. I haven't even penetrated deep enough yet."

They all chuckled at that as the last checkpoint came into view. Rico gave them the code as they passed through unscathed towards their destination.

"One more jump and we'll reach our station. They are eagerly awaiting our arrival," Rias said, tail wagging happily.

Zack inputted the coordinates as the _Hylin_made the jump, stars whizzing past then like lines. Once they were roughly about ten minutes away, he exited hyper drive as a large space station could be seen orbiting a planet. The clouds on the maroon planet swirled as the large circular globe rotated on its axis. The station itself was massive, almost the size of the planet but a bit smaller seen from far away. Tons of fighter ships patrolled the air as two of them surrounded the _Hylin_on each side.

"Pilot, you are entering restricted air space. Turn around or you will be shot."

"I'll handle this,"_Rico said before opening comms. _"This is Rico Storm. ID number 378XCT carrying precious cargo. Requesting permission to dock."

"ID confirmed. Welcome back your majesty," the pilot said as the ships flew off.

Zack flew the ship towards the station, following the guiding beacon as the doors opened. He landed on the assigned pad as three people were waiting outside. Rias hurried out before hugging the tall husky who hugged back.

"Welcome back Rias. You had us worried when you didn't come back at the assigned time," the husky said in a deep, but caring voice.

"Sorry dad. We ran into some complications along the way and the ship got pretty banged up," she replied.

Zack walked out carefully as the husky looked at him.

"And who is this?"

"This is the person who helped me," she said with a big smile. "Zack Gideon, a great cargo transporter and fighter."

"Greetings your majesty," he says, bowing his head before grunting at the twinge of pain.

"You have my thanks Mr. Gideon. And please, call me Alonzo. You have made this war more favorable for us. We thank you wholeheartedly."

"I was hesitant at first. But I'm glad I did it."

Rias walked over to the ship, opening the cargo door as it hit the floor with a thump. Grabbing the small console screen, she activated the drones as they came to life with a whirl. She guided them to pick up the container and ease it out of the _Hylin_as Alonzo smiled.

"There she is, the Chisenhall. I'm so glad you were able to make it back with this."

"I lost all my bodyguards cause of a bad route," she says, ears down a little before perking up. "But Zack here has been the greatest help ever. I couldn't have done it without his help."

Alonzo nodded before motioning to one of his guards.

"Have this taken immediately to the engineer section and let them get started on research and duplication."

"Yes your highness."

The doberman guard took over the controls and directed the container down the hall before disappearing out of sight.

"What are your plans now Mr. Gideon?" Alonzo asked looking at him.

"What else? Head over to a hub station and wait for the next job to come my way. Might be a bit harder after certain complications," he said, eyeing Rias who looked down.

"I see. Well, I wish you the best in your endeavors. If you'll excuse me, I have matters to attend to."

"Of course your majesty. Thank you for having me."

Alonzo smiled before nodding his head and walking away with the other guard. Zack watched him as Rias walked over.

"Thank you again for all your help."

"Uh huh," Zack said, heading to his ship.

"I'm really sorry about you losing your license. It wasn't my intention."

"What's done is done. Now if you'll excuse me princess, I have a job to do."

He walked past her, a soft whine coming from her as he walked up the ramp. Plopping down in the pilot seat, his ears flicked back hearing movement as he turned his head.

"Forget something princess?"

"Just wanted to say goodbye," she said softly before walking to the console and grabbing Rico's AI piece from the slot.

"Be well Rias," he nodded, starting his ship.

She gave him one last look before stepping off. The cargo bay closed with a clank as he looked out the window to see her looking back. He lifted off, turning the ship around as the stars came back into view pulling out of the station. Flicking a couple of switches, the hyper drive engine came to life with a hum as he inputted the coordinates for the nearest hub station.

//////

A sigh left Zack as he sat in the Ignot hub station docking bay. Its been a week since he left Rias and during that time, he tried hard to get his GE license back. But whatever Rain did, made it impossible for him to do so. Sure he still had the money Rias gave him, but it could only last so long. He took another bite of his sandwich as he read the book in his paws. Without that license, there were many jobs he couldn't take which really sucked. A double beep was heard making his ears perk as he dropped his feet from the console and hit a button as a screen popped up.

"Well what do you know, a job offer."

He read over the details which consisted of a simple delivery in the IG territory. He replied back that he would take the job. The other person replied saying they will be waiting at the Parliament hub station. A smile crossed his muzzle as he started his ship, getting clearance to leave before heading to said destination. It was about a half days travel, passing through a checkpoint before reaching the large hub station as ship docked and left.

Getting docking clearance, he sat his ship down and put her in idle for a quick departure if needed. Tossing on a nice shirt and pants, he lowered the cargo ramp before walking out, contacting the client with a happy wag. After about a thirty minute wait, he heard his watch beep. Tapping a button, he saw he had a message. Reading it made his ears fold and tail go limp.

"They found someone else huh? Oh well. Hopefully I get something soon."

With a sigh, he walked down to the shopping market, grabbing himself a soda and some food to tide him over for the next few days. Carrying the bags back, he walked up the ramp and tossed the food into the small fridge. Having done that, he walked back to the pilot's seat and plopped down, lifting his feet onto the console before unscrewing the top of his soda. Before he could take a sip, something covered his eyes making him yelp.

"What the fuck!?" he growled, getting up and turning around before his eyes went wide. "Rias!?"

She giggled a little before putting her paws behind her back.

"You seem surprised."

"Well yeah. I never thought I'd see you again."

"Well, here I am."

"But why?"

She turned her head, looking away for a brief moment before looking back at him.

"I felt responsible for you losing your GE license. So I spoke with my dad he agreed."

"Agreed to what?" he says, ears perked.

"To having you be one of our personal cargo transporter."

His mouth opened at that, at a loss for words.

"Well....I don't know.....what to say."

"You say yes cause you have your first job already," she chuckled.

"I do?"

She nodded before pointing at herself.

"I'm the cargo. And I need to go pick up a few things from our technology station."

He stood there for a few moment before laughing.

"As you wish. Lets be off then. I take it you left Rico behind?" he says sitting back down.

"Keep dreaming,"_Rico replied, his hologram appearing as he grinned. _"I still have unfinished business on her."

"Keep dreaming. You better not invade her privacy."

She laughed before sitting down on the seat as Zack asked for clearance to leave. Once the cargo door closed, he took off into orbit.

"So where to?"

"The Atlas station orbiting planet Xeris," she smiled.

"Lets go then," he said, hitting in the coordinates before engaging the hyper drive.

It was going to be a three day journey as Zack yawned.

"Take over Rico. I'm going to lie down. Haven't slept good in awhile."

"Sleep well. She's in good hands," he grinned.

He chuckled at that before heading to his room and stripping down to his boxers before laying down with a sigh, enjoying the cool sheets on her fur. Before he could get comfy, a knock was heard as he looked at the door.

"Come on in Rias."

She walked in with her cheeks a little red, closing the door behind her.

"I was wondering.....if I can join you? Rico can be a pain and I haven't had anyone hold me in awhile," she said softly.

He gave a soft smile before scooting over.

"Sure. Come on."

She smiled at that, tail wagging as she walked over and sat down on the edge with her back turned as she took off her formal uniform leaving her in a pair of pink panties and bra. She made sure to keep her back turned as she slid into the bed, cuddling her back into his chest. Zack hesitated before sliding an arm around her waist making her jump a little before relaxing with a soft murr.

"Wow, your soft Rias."

"I could say the same about you," she murred, tail slowly wagging as he did small scratches on her stomach. "Sorry about deceiving you when we first met."

"Water under the bridge," he says, paw making circles in her fur feeling her body shiver. "I'll hear nothing else about it. Been awhile since I shared a bed."

"Same," she moaned softly, enjoying the treatment. "Hey Zack?"

"Yes?"

"Remember when you asked me what kind of person I go for?"

His ears twitched before nodding.

"Well, I found him."

"Are you sure about that?" he asked softly.

She turned in his grasp, looking him in the eyes before nodding.

"I am," she says softly, leaning in and kissing him.

He tensed up at the kiss before relaxing and kissing her back making her whine happily as she reached up and caressed his cheek. She tilted her head, deepening the kiss as their tongues meshed together. He held her close, paws caressing her back as they both moaned. She broke off, keeping her nose close and panting softly.

"There is something I have to tell you before we get any further."

"What is it?" he asks.

She was quiet before looking into his eyes.

"Its best if you see for yourself."

She grabbed his paw and guided it lower to her groin. When they reached it, his ears went straight up as he felt what he thought he felt.

"Is that.....?"

"Yes. I was born with only that. No pussy. Just a dick."

He could hear the sadness in her voice as he smiled, lifting her into his lap before sitting up. She let out a yip at the sudden movement as she looked at him.

"And what difference does that make to me?"

"You mean.....you don't mind?" she said in surprise.

He just smiled before kissing her again, making them both moan as she wrapped her arms around his neck, scratching behind his ears. He held her close, paws roaming her back before going up to unlatch the bra letting her breasts go free. Breaking the kiss, he went down to her neck, nipping it softly making her gasp softly, body shivering as Zack kissed his way down before coming to those soft, fleshy globes. A paw cupped them making her gasp again before throwing her head back in a moan, feeling his rough tongue lash across her sensitive nipples.

He nipped and sucked on the small nubs, using his teeth to simulate her as his paws circled her back, claws teasing the skin as his ears picked up her moans. The smell of both their arousal started to get higher as her lower half started to grind into his. She held his head tighter, pushing her breasts into his muzzle as he tapped her, his air getting cut off making her gasp.

"I'm sorry," she panted out.

"All good," he murred, eyes traveling downward to her panties that were tenting. "Lay down for me."

She blushed heavily but nodded her head, laying down as her legs were wrapped around his back, He trailed his paws up and down her body slowly, making her squirm and giggle a little. Going lower, she tensed up as he gripped her panties softly, stopping feeling her tense.

"Do you want to continue Rias?"

"Yes," she said softly. "I want this."

A smile from him eased her as he pulled her panties down revealing her in all her glory. Her white sheath was swollen as the red tip poked out and growing slowly. She turned away a bit embarrassed before gasping loudly, feeling her tip get pinched.

"Don't be ashamed of your beauty," he murred, stroking her sheath softly, coaxing her to full.

"Mmmf," she moaned, squirming on the bed from the pleasure.

Eight inches throbbed on her waist as he gripped it gently.

"Impressive. Hot and super sexy you are princess," Zack said.

She looked at him, then down at his paw stroking her making her hips move on their own.

"You.....really think so?"

"I know so," he replied before leaning down and dragging his tongue from the sheath to the tip earning a howl from her.

The taste may have been foreign to him, but she was all woman in his mind as he slipped the tip into his muzzle. She howled again, paws gripping the sheets hard as untold pleasure ran up her spine. She never though anything like this would happen, but she was glad it was happening with him. Zack took more into his muzzle, tongue coiling around her shaft as he bobbed his head up and down slowly up and down.

"Oh fuck.....Zack."

Her body trembled under his ministrations. She could feel her heartbeat in her cock which throbbed hard. Pre started to drip slowly out the tip which was lapped up quickly by the coiling tongue that was wrapped around her flesh. His tongue tingled with addition of her salty pre which he took in happily. The pain in his midsection started to be noticeable to him as he lifted his head off with a pop.

"I'm becoming a little constricted here. Excuse me for a second," he chuckled, easing his boxers off as his pride and joy bobbed in the air.

Rias looked at it with half lidded eyes filled with lust. She sat up before pushing him down on his back, a paw reaching down to stroke his cock before cupping his balls.

"My my, someone is eager to deflower a princess," she growled.

"Deflower as in, first time?" Zack moaned out, feeling her soft paw.

"Is that a problem?" she whined softly.

"Of course not Rias. It'll be an honor."

She murred at that before kissing his neck and trailing her tongue down his chest. He watched her, eyes locked onto hers and tensing up, ready to feel whatever she had waiting for him. She went lower before coming face to face with his shaft. Her nose flared picking up his arousal making her tail wag and body squirm. Licking her lips, she kissed his tip, feeling a gasp come him before grinning and taking it into her muzzle with a moan.

"Oh....," Zack gasp out, eyes closing as his tongue lolled out.

She murred happily hearing his content as she took more in before feeling the tip poke her throat making her gag slightly before coming back up. She went back down faster, sucking harder as her paw cupped and rolled his balls, giving them a little squeeze now and then. Zack gasped feeling how fast she was going, paws gripping the bed as he groaned loudly. The salty pre tickled her tongue making her want more, lewd slurping coming from her muzzle as she breathed heavily, his scent the only thing she focused on.

"Rias.....fuck...."

Her eyes looked up at him with a sultry stare as she let go of him with a slurp, nuzzling his shaft softly and kissing the flesh.

"Mmm, do you want me captain Gideon?" she growled deeply.

"More then you know," he growled back.

She giggled at that, licking his shaft with a murr before reluctantly letting go and crawling up to kiss him deeply, grinding into him.

"Then what are you waiting for?"

He didn't need to be told twice as he spun her around. She let out a murr, lowering her chest on the bed and curling her tail around her waist, showing her balls that dangled along with her pink star. Zack licked his lips before moving closer, nose taking in her heavy arousal before dragging his tongue from the balls to the taint getting a happy moan from the body underneath. Seeing as it was her first time, he wanted to make it as painless as possible but knew it wouldn't be. Gripping her soft rear, he spread her cheeks open before lapping at her opening.

"Ohh....naughty captain," she moaned, tongue lolling out.

"You haven't....seen anything yet from me," he says with a muffle chuckled, pushing his tongue into her body feeling the heat enclose around him.

She moaned loudly, cock dripping pre underneath her as she pushed into him, claws gripping the sheets. Her body wanted it and she was going to have it as she looked behind him.

"I'm ready captain. Just.....go slow."

He pulled his tongue out and nodded before climbing onto her back, a soft grunt emitting from her before murring as she felt him kiss and nip her neck. Lining himself up, he prodded her entrance making her tense and relax.

"Here we go. Just relax," he says into her ear as she nodded.

Taking a breath, he pushed into her, the tip popping into her rear making her yelp, teeth clenched. He paused right there, feeling the death grip she applied as he kissed and caressed her body to relax her. She caught her breath and opened one eye, nodding to him to continue. Seeing the go ahead, he pushed into her more, a growl coming from him as the heat was intense. A fire burned in her body that made her pant and squeeze down on that flesh stick probing her body. Soon they both gasped as he hilted her, his paws gripping her waist hard as the pleasure was intense.

"God.....so big," she groaned, squeezing hard.

"You're....squeezing me so.....tight," he whined, ears flat on his head.

He held there for a moment, stretching her out as she moaned, wiggling her hips a little. Their paws interlocked as he kissed her cheek making her giggle.

"Ready?"

"More then ready."

He let out a soft growl, easing his cock out of her hot insides, leaving the tip in before pushing back in. Squirts of pre shooting out making the friction easier as he got into a slow, steady motion. As Rias could do is moan and whine in pleasure, squeezing both his paw and cock hard.

"Yesss," she whined out, pushing back into his slow movements.

The soft sound of their bodies connecting along with the bed moving made for a perfect melody. Zack let his free paw wander her body, tickling her stomach softly before going up to squeeze a breast, pinching a nipple. He knew her body was perfect, but seeing it now, it was beyond perfect. His breathing started to pick up, nipping her neck in a mating bite making her gasp, back arching.

"Take.....me. Claim....me captain."

A growl left his mouth as he straightened himself up before driving harder into her body. Her head shot up, eyes going wide as drool came down her tongue. Pre leaked freely from her tip onto the bed as it flopped back and forth. Every thrust hit and rubbed her insides perfectly. Zack opened his closed eyes, looking down as he saw his cock spear her body over and over. The sight made his cock throb hard which she felt, looking behind her which lust filled eyes.

"You're....throbbing so hard....in me. Do I....make you crazy?"

"Insane with.....lust," he panted back, never missing a beat as a soft slurping sound could be made out.

She let out a moan before getting to her knees, thrusting her body down on that hard shaft with vigor. Zack whined at the new angle, burying his muzzle in her neck before reaching around and starting to jerk her off. She inhaled at the extra simulation, pushing into his paw which allowed deeper intrusion. Her paw reached up to his head, scratching behind his ear as she nuzzled him hard, whining in bliss. Lifting his chin, she kissed him hard, tongues lashing against each other as they panted hard, driving their lust higher.

"So.....close Zack."

"Me....too," he whined out before spinning them around, laying her on her back.

He gripped her legs, right under the knees as he drove into her body. She yelped in pleasure, claws digging into his arms, begging him to take her. He groaned, his knot filling out and banging her hole as her eyes went wide. That was gonna leave a mark in the morning but it would be worth it.

"Tie....me captain. I need....it."

He let go of her knees, gripping her waist as he lifted her body with each hard thrust, trying to spear his knot into her body. She started to whine, feeling her hole stretch for his knot. It was painful, but the constant stabbing on her prostate made the pleasure over take it. Zack had to tie, no matter what. He grinded harder and harder into her, his knot squeezing in little by little. With a desperate whine, he drew his hips back, putting all his weight into the next thrust as his knot popped in loudly in their ears. They both howled in pleasure, toes curling and teeth bared.

"Oh....god. I feel....so full," Rias whined, squeezing down on him.

Zack grunted, hips still moving as the pleasure started to build, balls pulling into his body slowly. It wouldn't be long now until he splattered her insides with his vulpine seed. But he didn't want to cum alone. Reaching down, he found her knot also fully formed and pulsing with need. Gripping behind it, he gave small squeezes, working her nerves as her hips pushed up rapidly.

"Its....coming Zack. I can't...."

Before she could finished, her body tensed up, a death grip being applied on Zack's cock as she let out a bark. The tip of her cock flared up before ropes of cum shot out onto her chest, each rope feeling better then the last. Zack watched her reach her peak, his nose inhaling that musky scent which was all he needed, hilting her body fully, growling deeply as he unloaded into her body, eyes closed and tail ridged. They rode out that shockwave for all it was forth, grinding hard into each other. Sadly, it came to an end as they panted hard, letting out soft moans and groans.

"Perfect my captain," Rias moaned out.

Zack nodded softly before opening his eyes and looking down at her. Her fur was matted with her cum, a few strands landed on her muzzle which only made the sight hotter. Leaning down, he licked up the cum making her squirm before kissing her softly and laying down on his side, holding her close.

"Thank you for the honor," Zack said, cuddling her.

"I'm glad it was you," she replied, cuddling into him.

"_Are you two done yet?"_Rico spoke up from the speaker.

"Mind you business," Rias snapped back.

"Whatever. We're on schedule and should arrive in two days. Just an update."

Rias rolled her eyes at that.

"You could've waited in telling that. Don't bother us unless it important."

Rico chuckled before going silent as Zack chuckled.

"I can see why you don't want to be alone with him."

"He can drive me crazy sometimes. But seeing as we a few days more. How about a few more rounds captain?" she murred, squeezing down on that knot still in her making his eyes cross.

"Sounds like a plan to me."