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Chapter 2 Arrival

It had been a few days since their departure from Earth to Lylat. During that time Milo spent most of his time exploring the ship quietly to himself. Though, he was hesitant when he found the mess hall to eat but got over it quickly when Jake found him and ended up dragging him to have lunch with him, Nichole, and Jarrod. He was visited by James a few times and he even gave him a tour of the control bridge. Now Milo was leaning against the railing to one of the observation decks read a holopad based on Cornerian physiology which was kindly given to him by the doctor in the med bay. Hearing footsteps Milo looked up to see that it was James walking towards him with his sunglasses off and paws in his pockets.

"I thought I might find you here. This is where I go to think sometimes." James said leaning against the rail next to Milo.

"Yeah it's actually quite peaceful here." Milo replied as he went back to reading the holopad.

James leaned over to see what Milo was reading and surprised to find out what it was and that it was written in Cornerian.

"You can read and understand that?" James asked.

"It's not that hard. Your language and mine aren't that different especially when comparing it to Latin. So it's not hard to translate. Not to mention how similar our physiology that it's scary." Milo answered.

"I'm impressed! So do you understand all that?" James asked with a smile.

"Yeah, my dad taught me everything in the medical field that he was taught. Most of it is just a review to me though some of it is new to me." Milo answered.

"Well you'll definitely make a fine medical officer. Oh that reminds me General Pepper wants to speak with you before we arrive at Corneria." James said heading down the hallway.

Milo turned off the holopad and quickly followed after James. After heading down a few hallways and an elevator ride they arrived outside of General Pepper's office. When they entered Milo took in the surroundings. A large wooden desk, a few chairs, a bookshelf, and a second door that probably lead to the captain's quarters. Milo noticed on the desk was his duffle bag and a few other items. Before he could question it General Pepper walked in from his private quarters noticing James and Milo standing in front of the desk.

"Ah you're both here, good. I wanted to talk about a few things with you Milo before we arrived at Corneria." Pepper stated.

"That's fine but I'd like to ask why my bag is here if that's alright." Milo asked.

"Yes about that, we had to go through your belongings to make sure you weren't carrying any weapons." Pepper answered.

"Well, I can understand that but I do hope you were careful with a few of my things. Some of it was quite damaged, and it's all I have left." Milo said rubbing his arm remembering digging through the rubble to find some of the said items.

General Pepper couldn't help but feel guilty again. When he looked through Milo's belongings he was shocked at what little he had and how damaged they were. He saw several family photos that were slightly burned at the edges a few had blood on them which scared him, he only had a few sets of clothes, a laptop that had a cracked screen, a iPhone, and finally an old pocket watch. He found the watch strangely fascinating and looked over its features. Completely silver and looked old with a bullet lodged permanently in the back and when he opened it the time was stuck on 3:00:00 and had an inscription on the inside which read "May God watch over me and guide me when saving my fellow soldiers. 6 June 1944" As he held it he felt a chill run down his spine making him feel like he was being watched. He then placed it back on the desk and looked at Milo.

"Well, the reason I called you here is because I have a few things for you that you'll need when we arrive at Corneria." Pepper said picking up the first item which resembled at touch screen/ wristwatch.

"This is you're communicator. It's similar to your phone but with more features. It will sample your DNA so that only you can use it and will help us know where you are. I've already taken the liberty of adding mine and a few other contact information I case you need to call us. I'm sure you can figure out the rest of the features on your own." General Pepper said handing it to Milo. Milo then placed it on his left arm and felt a small pinch as it sampled his DNA. He found that it was similar to the hollow pad that he was using earlier. General Pepper then picked up a card that had Milo's picture on it.

"This is your ID card; it has all your information on it and serves as your key card for you home and credit card which will be given an allowance twice a month. If you lose it we can get you a new one but it best if you didn't." Pepper stated handing Milo the card which he accepted and placed in his wallet.

"Finally, your class schedule at the academy. From what we've learned it should be similar to your country's high school and military training school. From 7am to 11am are your regular classes mathematics, science/ biology, history and literature which you can wear civilian clothes. From 12pm to 1pm is lunch and from 1pm to 330pm is military training and gym/ field training. You'll have to wear military training clothes which we provided at your home. The academy year doesn't start for two more weeks so I suggest you settle in and look around with a chauffeur of course." Pepper stated handing him the schedule.

Milo took it and looked it over and put it in his coat pocket. He then grabbed his bag and threw it over his shoulder. He was almost caught off guard when a voice came over the PA.

"Attention all hands. We're existing light-speed and entering Cornerian orbit, all crew members heading to the surface please make your way to your designated drop ship. Any crew members remaining on board begin a system check, that is all." The PA announced.

"Well I guess that includes us. Milo why don't you go and get the rest of your belongings and head on to the aircraft bay. We'll be down shortly." General Pepper said with a smile.

Milo just nodded his head and left, leaving only General Pepper and James in the room.

When the door slide closed General Pepper reached under and pressed a button hidden under the desk locking the door and soundproofing the room. He then pulled out the flash drive given to him and plugged it into a port on the desk and a holographic display of records and pictures pulled.

"Hmm, James tells me you think of this." General Pepper asked

James walked around the desk to get a good look. After reading a few lines to find out that it's all Milo's records.

"Top of his class, as well as top scores in marksmanship mainly with small arms and sniper rifles. Specializes in medical and engineering. Hobbies consist of martial arts, Bo staff training, reading, biking, mountain climbing, and long list of other outdoor sports. All and all an impressive record." James answered.

"Yes but take a look at the before and after battle report from attack on Atlanta." General Pepper said looking down intertwining his fingers.

James quickly read through it and was shocked at what he was reading that he had to look away.

"I know what you're thinking. I too was shock when I read it. I'm surprise at how he's still sane. That's why I have a favor to ask." Pepper asked.

"And that would be?" James answered.

"I want you to keep a close eye on Milo. Make sure no one harms him. We have to assume that Andross will send assassins to kill him to drive a wedge between us and Earth." Pepper stated.

"Yes, I understand. I'll keep an eye on him. Still, I can see now why he doesn't trust us or if he ever will." James answered.

"Likewise, but maybe we can change that particularly your son. He's also attending the academy isn't he?" Pepper asked.

"Fox? Well, yes sir he is but he's got a bit more reckless since the last you saw him. Especially when he's out with his friends." James stated scratching the back of his head. Remember the time they took his convertible out without permission.

"Ha ha, yes I remember how reckless he and his friends can be. But maybe that's what they both need. Fox could use someone to teach him some discipline and Milo could use someone to help him loosen up." General Pepper said with a smile.

"Well I can't see that going wrong, but it just might work." James said with a smile as well.

"Last call for any and all crew members heading to the surface." The PA announced.

"Well we but hurry or they might leave without us." General Pepper said deactivating the lock and soundproofing.

"After you sir." James answered putting on his glasses.

5 minutes later...

Milo waited patiently for the General as he fiddled with wrist communicator, finding it to be easier than he thought.

"Hey kid, how you doing?" A voice said loudly.

Milo looked up to see it Jake followed by Jarred and Nichole.

"Not much, just waiting." Milo answered with a smile.

"Is that the new communicator from Space Dynamics?" Nichole asked.

"I guess, just got it and have been messing with it for past few minutes." Milo answered.

Nichole sat down next to him on his left side to get a better look. He made sure not to flinch or tense up when he felt her tail wrap around his leg.

"Can I?" She asked politely.

He sighed but nodded. He unlocked the locks and to handed it to her but left a metallic bracelet around his wrist.

"Interesting feature, even if it's removed they can still keep track of you as long as you're still wearing that bracelet. Not to mention the next gen military tech incorporated into it. Amazing!" She said with a smile. She then handed back to him and he placed it back on his wrist.

"I agree we don't even have computers this advance." Milo answered.

"Well, wait till you get to the surface. You'll get see more and where it all comes from." Nichole replied.

"Ugh, stop please. I can't understand you when you talk nerdy." Jake said gripping his head.

"Dunce." She whispered shaking her head.

"General's coming." Jarred said getting ready to be called to attention.

Both Jake and Nichole quickly stood next to him and right on cue both General Pepper and James came walking their way.

"You all seem to be getting acquainted rather well." Pepper said with a smile.

"Just making conversation, sir." Nichole answered.

"Well by all means don't stop on my part. But I do suggest we get on board be for the ship leaves without us." Pepper replied walking up ramp followed by James.

The rest of them quickly followed and quickly got seat as the door closed. The ship started its vertical takeoff and made its way to the launch tunnel and was quickly launched out into space and started making its way to Corneria. Milo looked out the window and saw Corneria. It looked so similar to Earth and he was surprised at how beautiful it was. But now he was feeling two emotions at the same time. Excitement at being the first human to explore an alien planet and fear knowing he's the only human on an alien planet.

"Prepare for atmospheric reentry." James said over the intercom, snapping Milo out of his daze.

Milo felt aircraft shake a little as it reentered Corneria's outer atmospheres. He continued to look out his window and saw the surface getting closer and closer. He then saw a large city with dozens of large skyscrapers and numerous highways. The city appeared to have been built in harmony with nature unlike most cities on Earth.

"Well, what do you think?" Jarred said leaning over the back of the seat.

"I'm at a loss for words." Milo answered.

"Well then let me be the first to welcome you to Corneria City, the capital of Corneria." Nichole quickly replied right next to him.

Milo thanked her and saw Jarred roll his eyes and ended up getting smacked by Nichole's book again. He then noticed the aircraft was making its way to what appeared to be a large military base sitting near the center of the city.

"Why is your military base in the city? Wouldn't it be safer if was outside the city?" Milo asked.

"Well, the CDF mostly acts as the national guard and police force. Which is why the base is in the city and this isn't the only base near the capital. There are several on the coast and a few in the mountains. The Cornerian Army are ones that patrol and protect the Lylat System." Nichole answered.

Before Milo could asked another question James's voice spoke over the intercom again.

"Prepare for landing." He stated.

Milo looked out his window again and saw that they were already on the base and were making their way to one of many large hangers. The ship then gently landed with ease. Milo undid his harness and grabbed his bag and slung it over his shoulder and made his way to the ramp door which had just open and took his first steps on Corneria. He shielded his eyes from the rays of light from the setting sun. He then noticed a long vehicle that resembled a limousine but was a hovercraft.

"Well, it seems our ride is here. Shall we be off then Mr. Pax?" General Pepper said behind him and nearly startling him.

"Yes sir, but uh could I have a minute to say goodbye to the others? If it's not too much trouble?" Milo asked.

General Pepper raised a furry eyebrow but smiled and nodded his head.

"Of course, just come meet me by the limousine when you're done." He replied walking to the limo with James next to him

Milo walked over to where Jake and the others were unloading their gear from the cargo hold. He grunted a little and got their attention.

"Uh listen, I want to thank y'all for keeping me company on the way here. You didn't have to but you did and I wanted to thank you. I'm not really good with goodbyes so maybe I'll see y'all around sometime?" Milo said rubbing his arm.

He was surprised when Nichole walked up to him and hugged him and for a moment he thought he heard her purring.

"It was no trouble at all, it was nice talking to with you and I'm sure we'll see each other soon." Nichole answered with a smile, letting him go causing him to slightly blush but managed to hid it.

"Yeah kid we'll definitely see you around! I had a blast hanging out with you!" Jake shouted patting his shoulder as his tail wagged.

"Yeah definitely, provided that I can get away from the wife." Jarred replied patting his other shoulder.

Milo smiled, he first thought that he wasn't going to have any friends when he got here but now he does. Sure they were older than him but they were good people.

"Well I'll see y'all around then." Milo said walking to the limousine, wavering back to them.

"Oh and don't worry, you'll see us sooner than you think!" Jake yelled back to him.

This left Milo a little confused but shook it off. When he approached the limo he saw General Pepper on the other side.

"Ready?" Pepper asked.

Milo just nodded his head and they both got in. Milo noticed James sitting across from them. General Pepper then told the driver where to go and then they were off. General Pepper then started discussing with James about some contracts, so Milo just looked out the window and saw as they started leaving the base, hundreds of reporters waiting but luckily the driver quickly drove past them.

"I'm not going to have to worry about annoying reporters am I?" Milo asked politely interrupting the Pepper and James.

"I've already discussed it with most of the media that you would like to be left alone but you may have to deal with the typical reporter. Now you may be invited to a few shows and events which we will receive but you can turn them down if don't wish to attend. You going to be popular while you are here, while I hope you enjoy living here, I do ask that you keep an eye out for trouble. Some may try to offend you and even hurt you. Which is why I assigned you a bodyguard/chauffeur, I've already placed his contact info in your communicator. So you can call him whenever you need him." The General answered.

"I'll keep my head on a swivel." Milo stated.

He got a confused look from both Pepper and James and could help but chuckle.

"I'll keep an eye out." He answered again trying not to laugh this time.

After a few minutes of driving they pulled up to a gated community. When they got through the gate the limo stopped in front of a two story house that looked similar to the ones in California.

"And is where you leave you for the rest of the evening, I hope that you'll find your living arrangement comfortable." General Pepper stated.

Milo looked it over from top to bottom. Dark brown roofing, sand stone color with a stoned front porch, a walkway to the porch and a driveway with a garage.

"Thank you. You really didn't have to give me this much." Milo replied.

"Well, you are going to be living here for a while so why not give a nice place to live." General Pepper said with a smile. Milo stretched his hand to him, which General Pepper took and shook it.

"I also want to thank you Mr... I mean James. It's been nice having someone show me around the Guardian. I hope to see you again." Milo said stretching his arm to James. James just smiled and shook his hand too.

"No problem kid and don't worry you'll see me around here. I don't live that far from here." James replied.

Milo just smiled and got out but before he could walk up the walk way, the window to the limo rolled down and Pepper stuck his head out.

"Oh and Milo I almost forgot. Your president sent some things in advance so you wouldn't have to wait. We looked it all over and placed it all inside for you." Pepper stated.

Milo was confused by this but nodded his head and the general rolled up the window as the limo drove off. Milo then noticed that he was getting a few stares from a few of the neighbors. He the remembered where he was and decided it was best for him to head inside. He quickly headed up the walkway and up onto the porch. He dug out his ID card and swiped it over the metal lock next to the door and went inside. Once inside he placed his bag on the ground and sat down on the hard wood floor with his back pressed against the door.

"Why am I feeling this way? Why do I feel happy again? They took everything from me and now they're trying to make up for it." Milo argued with himself.

He then took out his dad's pocket watch and stared at it for a few minutes.

"I know, I shouldn't be mad at them. They didn't know and are trying to make up for it. You'd want me to be friends with them and I will do that for you. I just wish you were here dad." Milo said to himself.

He then placed the watch back in his pocket and decided to look around the house. The living room had a large leather wrap around couch, two leather recliners, and an entertainment center with a holographic display instead of a TV. The kitchen was tiled with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Went upstairs and found the master bedroom with a king size bed, walk in closet, and a door leading into the main bathroom that had a walk in shower and tub. After walking back down stairs he found an office with a dark wooden desk with a holo computer incorporated into it. He also found several large boxes in the office with a letter on one addressed to him.

Dear Milo,

Just thought I'd send a few house warming gifts after I saw a picture of the house, also was able to send you two large surprises in the garage unfortunately Space Dynamics made a few changes but they should still sound the same. General Pepper approved your driving license though you will have to study their driving laws. Talk to you soon!

Uncle Scott

Milo quickly dropped the letter and ran to the garage and was shocked at what he found he couldn't help but laugh. It was his red and white Kawasaki dual sport bike and his dad's red and black Kawasaki ninja. He noticed another letter on his bike. He picked it up and saw the Space Dynamics logo on it. He opened it and started reading it.

Greeting Mr. Pax,

We at Space Dynamics want to formally welcome you Corneria. We unfortunately had to remove the liquid fuel and rebuild the engines in both of your vehicles. But now they both have prototype X/R engines that run on fuel cells that can be charged at the charging port in your home or at any local charging port. Personally I found the designs of your vehicles fascinating. Come stop by in three weeks to see what I come up with.

Formally,

Beltino Toad

Research Director

"Interesting, but please don't tell me he's a toad but then again I wouldn't be surprised if a Cornerian named Fox is an actual fox." Milo said to himself.

He then headed back inside and headed for the backyard finding a patio with outdoor granite countertop with grill and pool with a spill over spa.

"I think they're going too far with all of this." He said leaning against the counter staring at the setting sunset.

"Well maybe this place won't be too bad. And I really need to stop talking to myself." Milo said to himself again.

He looked up at sky and saw the stars coming out. He then looked at the setting sun one more time before gently knocking on the countertop with a smile before walking back inside to sort through the boxes he was given and then turn in for the night on a new world and begin a new adventure.

A/N: Sorry this took so long, had to do some research and wanted it to make it longer. I'll try not to take too long on the next chapter but I do work on late shifts so please be patient.

Till then Howls!