Balto / Star Wars crossover sequel
Wolf Squadron: The True Color of Steele
By DeeRock, with assistance from Cyberwulfe

Prologue

Outside of the smuggler’s moon of Nar Shaddaa, a Corellian YT-2000 Transport named Long Howl (see X-Wing Alliance & Ortana) approached the vertical city and entered the atmosphere of the city. Inside the cockpit of the transport, there were two Canines and a Nav/Maintenance Droid.

The female collie who sat on the co-pilot seat said, “We are going to pick up a VIP at a bar called ‘Galactic Alehouse’ in sector 17.”

The young male Saint Bernard who was piloting the ship asked, “Rina. What kinda VIP would hanging around in a place full of smugglers, trouble makers and pirates?”

“Perhaps a mercenary or a spy.” Maintenance Droid Emkay suggested.

“Yeah.” Bumper the St. Bernard agreed.

“Stay on your course.” ordered Rina, “Do you see that platform right there? Land this baby right there and we are going to get our man.”

“Aye, aye, ma’am.” Said Bumper.

After the Long Howl landed on the landing platform with other crafts, the door underneath the “neck” of the transport opened and extended to the ground. Bumper and Rina walked down from the entry ramp and entered the “Galactic Alehouse”. When they entered the bar, what they saw was eight beings of different species surrounded a young female canine along the bar-table. This gang seemed to be angry, yet challenging toward the lone dog.

“You guys really want a piece of me so desperately? Com’on, bring it on!” the female canine mocked the gangsters.

A Trandoshan rushed towards her and lift his scaly arms to grab her. The young canine dodged the grab with swiftness and kicked the Trandoshan on his back which caused him to hit the bar table hard. Others were pissed off and stepped toward to her. The canine put her paws on the table and flipped herself to the other side of the table. In the same moment, a 2 meters Gran swung his huge fist upon the girl, but he missed. The canine didn’t miss the opportunity to feed the Gran punches. She grabbed the Gran and gave him multi-hit right in the face. The Gran backed off but there were more gangsters moving towards her.

Rina patted Bumper’s hip “Go ahead, help her, I will back you up.”

Bumper nodded with trust and walked toward to the gangsters. He patted a Rodian and a human’s shoulders from behind. When these two looked back, their heads were being grabbed and smashed together by Bumper. As the Rodian and human were falling unconsciously, Bumper grabbed another human and tossed him to the floor. On the other hand, the Trandoshan who knocked down by the female Canine held the edge of the bar-table and got up. He spotted Bumper in front of him in two meters in the first glance. He picked up a chair and hit Bumper from behind. Bumper crashed upon a table and couldn’t get up. In the same moment, the Trandoshan drew his vibroblade and prepared to stab Bumper. Suddenly, the Trandoshan felt a metal tube against his scaly head. It was Rina with her trusty DL-44 heavy blaster.

“Drop it. Or you are going to regret for it.” Rina warned calmly, “Drop it now!”

The Trandoshan dropped his vibroblade on the floor. The gang couldn’t believe what they just witness. A gentle looking canine popped from nowhere and just took one of them as a hostage. Bumper also got up and drew his Bryar pistol.

He pointed his pistol on the gang “No body moves! Where’s the girl?”

These beered-up gangsters were so pissed, surprised and confused that they didn’t even attempt to draw their weapons. The young female canine emerged from the crowd and looked at Bumper and Rina. Obviously, she had beaten by these gangsters and there are some bruises on her youthful face.

Rina said, “I will do the talk. You just pay attention on the bad guys.”

“Uh-hum.” Replied Bumper.

Rina knew what exactly she need to say and whom she needed to talk to “Are you the trick-master of half-quarter-quarter?”

“Yep.” The young canine answered, “The name is Tricksy.”

“You are our VIP and you are coming with us.” Rina nodded, then she winked at Bumper “Let’s get moving.”

When Tricksy approached Rina, Rina grabbed her arm and rushed to the entrance of the bar. In the same moment, Bumper’s left hand reached a flash bomb and tossed into the gangsters. Everyone who was in the bar were stunned by the flash except for Bumper, Rina and Tricksy who were running toward to the Long Howl without any hesitation.

Chapter One

Emkay was waiting for further orders from his canine companions. When he saw the trio running toward to the ship desperately, he knew something had gone wrong and they had to leave Nar Shaddaa as soon as possible. He started the engine and power system of the Long Howl and opened the entry ramp for his friends.

“Power’s up and shield is online.” Emkay informed, “We can leave Nar Shaddaa as soon as you guys are ready.”

“Very well, let’s get the hell outta here.” Bumper was impressed by Emkay’s fast decision.

The Corellian Transport lifted to the midair, then the landing skids were being retracted as it heading toward to the space. One minute later, six various ships and fighters departed from the landing platform of “Galactic Alehouse” and headed the same course flied by the Long Howl.

“Rina. What the heck is the half-quarter-quarter means? Why you are the only one who was being informed?” Bumper had a feeling that he was treated unfairly because he thought he suppose to know about this mission as much as Rina do.

“I am half wolf, quarter Alaskan Malamute and quarter German shepherd.” Tricksy interrupted.

“Because I am in charge of this ship and our business, that’s why Royal Canis Navy High Command had me briefed.” Said Rina.

“Hey! First, I am the pilot of the Long Howl. Second, I am the one who is a truly member of Royal Canis Navy. See the tag right here?” Bumper pointed his coat and complained. “It said flight cadet of Wolf Squadron. Cadet! You are not even a member of the flight squadron and you get fully informed! That’s not fair!”

“I hate to interrupt you guys, but I am picking up incoming bandits (enemy aircraft) on our six and 5 kilometers away from us.” Emkay said. “There are six of them, and these ships are from the landing platform of ‘Galactic Alehouse’. You guys must had gotten into a fight, right?”

Bumper nodded.

“Oh, no! They are gaining on us fast!” Ticksy gasped.

“I don’t think they are ordinary gangsters. They could be space pirates.” Bumper said.

“Why?” asked Rina.

“It is too obvious that something is slowing us down which would be our cargo. Space pirates can tell that we have something precious onboard via our speed and intention.” The huge canine answered.

Rina made a series of orders “Alright, you heard the mutt! Let’s get moving! Emkay, take over the co-pilot seat and calculate the hyper-jump point as soon as possible. Tricksy, you are coming with me.”

After taking the orders, Emkay activated a button to remove the retractable co-pilot seat (unlike the Millenium Falcon, co-pilot seats behind the pilot) and took over co-pilot position. In the same time, Rina brought Tricksy to the very center part of the ship and said “I will take the upper turret and you will take the other one.”

“Cool! The legendary quad laser turrets of Corellian Transport series. I always want to handle one of these babies.” Tricksy admired and hopped into the gunner seat.

“Take on the head set and turn on the switch on the upper right corner.” Rina instructed, “The hologram projector will project HUD image in front of you and give you position and information of your enemy.”

Tricksy followed Rina’s instruction and she saw two circles which represent forward/rear sensors, a targeting sight which corresponding the cannons’ aiming and a box which provides her current target’s information.

“Here they come! Select the craft who is engaging us and closer to us first.” Rina said. “Then open fire when the bandit is closer than 1.4 kilometer. When the first one stops his attack run, target the second one and do the same thing.”

Not too far from the Long Howl, there were one Firespray-Class Patrol/Attack ship, a Pursuer Enforcement Ship, two R-41 Starchaser, one Z-95 Headhunter and a Muurian Transport. These crafts formed two attack formations and the slower Muurian Transport was left behind.

“These spacecrafts are armed with ion cannons. It is obvious that they don’t have the intention to destroy the Long Howl.” Bumper analyzed the situation.

“Why are you so sure about that?” The collie argued.

“Wanna bet? If I win, you are going to take me for out for a bite.”

“If you win, we are all gonna die!” Tricksy pointed out.

“Bogeys are in our cannon fire range, ladies, get ready for actions.” Emkay said.

The first pirate element consisted an R-41 and a Firespray attack ship. When the leading R-41 entered the firing range of Rina’s turret, Rina slid the cross-aim upon the target box and fired a series of laser blasts. The leading R-41 received several blasts and maneuvered away from laser fires. Although Rina forced the R-41 away early, a series of laser blasts hit the ship and caused the shield dropped to 190%. The Z-95 started luring Rina to fire upon him, while the Firespray attack ship was following the Z-95 by 80 meters. When the Z-95 pulled off his attack run, the Firespray was very close to Long Howl (less than 500 meters). Rina pulled her turret upon to the Firespray and started to fire upon him, but it was too late. A torpedo was fired from the Firespray and “hit” the Long Howl directly. Rina was expecting the Long Howl to spin wildly after being hit by a torpedo, but the ship didn’t spin and the shield rate didn’t drop after being hit. She thought the torpedo from the Firespray was a dud and she continued feeding the pirates laser bolts.

“Hurry, redirect tractor-beam and front cannons energy to the engine to gain some speed.” Emkay advised.

“Darn, I suppose to do it when we were leaving Nar Shaddaa. I am such a brainless idiot.” Bumper cursed at himself harshly.

“You can blame yourself later, big guy. Now concentrate on piloting the ship while I am calculating our escape route.”

On the other hand, Tricksy was dealing with the second element of the pirates that consisted an R-41 and a Pursuer. Inside the cockpit of the R-41, the pilot of this starfighter is the Trandoshan who almost killed Bumper. He fired laser and ion cannons frantically upon the Long Howl because he was seeking revenge for being captive by a girl. Alcohol reduced his judgement and caused him ignore his own situation. Despite his comrades’ warning for his low shield rate, he armed his missiles and prepared to launch them. When his R-41 received several more blast from Tricksy, his fighter exploded and perished in the space.

“Never drink ‘n’ drive! Buddy!” Tricksy was proud of her first kill with the quad laser cannon.

“Don’t get cocky! We are still in danger.” Rina was surprised by Tricksy’s ability to learn to handle the turret really fast.

Suddenly, the Pursuer emerged from the explosion of the Trandoshan’s R-41 and launched a proton torpedo on the Long Howl. When Tricksy saw the blue trail of the torpedo, it was too late. The torpedo hit the Corellian transport and caused her spin helplessly. While Bumper attempted to regain control of the ship, this ship receive several more blast and her shield rate dropped to 88%.

“I got it!” Emkay yelled “Big guy, head strait to the hyper buoy (a blue image projected on the sensor and cockpit to indicate the hyper-jump point.). That will take us to the nearest patrol point of Royal Canis Navy force.”

“Roger that.” Bumper faked a Split-S and managed to shake off the pirates. He steered the ship head to the hyper buoy. When the ship was away from the buoy less than 500 meters, Bumper pushed a red button and the Long Howl made it to hyperspace.

Rina and Tricksy walked back to the cockpit and settled down.

“We should be safe now.” Bumper said, “There’s no way they could track us after we entered hyperspace.”

“Hum…” Rina nodded.

Tricksy was still enjoying her first kill with the laser turret “That was fun! I would love to kill all these pirates scum with this quad laser turret.”

The Corellian transport emerged from hyperspace, directly in front of the lead Beowulfe Class Corvette. Bumper gasped and pull the engine power to zero and fired his retrorockets.

"That was close," said Tricksy.

"We've done worse," commented Rina.

"That's enough out of you," chuckled Bumper.

Rina just shook her head and reached up to the ceiling of the cockpit. She switched on the hailing system and called the Corvette. “This is Corellian Transport Long Howl. We are carrying our VIP and cargo from the Rebellion Alliance. We need the coordination of the main fleet.”

“This is Beowulfe Corvette Little Fang, we are sending the coordination to your navigation computer.” the voice came through the cockpit speaker.

“We have the coordination, thanks for your help, Little Fang.” Rina replied

“Any time… What the?” “We are picking up 5 spacecrafts entering this space from hyperspace.”

“Uh oh!” Tricksy gasped, “Not them again!”

“ We have the coordination now, let’s get outta here.” Bumper said nervously.

“Yeah.” Rina agreed, then she turned to the microphone. “Little Fang, would you guys deal these pirates for us?”

“No problem, Long Howl. Just get these stuff to the high command for us.”

While the space pirates emerged from hyperspace and started pursuing Long Howl. Bumper steered the transport heading the new hyper buoy and pushed the engine power to 100%. The Long Howl started heading away from the Little Fang while the Little Fang positioned herself between the Corellian transport and the pirates.

When the pirates got into Little Fang’s fire range, Little Fang fired upon the pirates. The pirates received several hits but managed to maneuver their crafts away from the laser bolts and fed back some laser/ion blasts and warheads. After taking hits from the pirates, Little Fang stood her “ground” and kept firing upon the pirates. Suddenly, all five pirate-ships broke up their formation and changed their course. They gave up the Corvette and continued their hunt of Long Howl. However, this already gave the Long Howl enough time to escape the battle and head to the hyper buoy.

20 seconds later, the distance between the Long Howl and the pirates was less than 1 kilometer and pirates started shooting the Long Howl with laser and ion cannons. After taking a series of blasts, the shield rate of the Long Howl dropped to 41%. In the same time, the Long Howl entered jumping point and escaped into hyperspace again.

“How did they track us down even we entered hyperspace?” Bumper asked anxiously yet unpleasantly.

“I don’t know. I just don’t know.” Rina felt frustrated by the rough ride of the day. “Tricksy, we better return to the gunner pits and get ready for more actions.”

“Yeah.” Tricksy nodded.

Inside the cockpit of the Long Howl, the stars turned to individual light dots from white lines and the main Royal Canis Fleet became visible for everyone aboard.

“Nenana, this is Long Howl. We have our VIP and cargo. We are being chased by a group of space pirates and we need help now!” Bumper spoke loudly through the comm-link.

“Don’t worry, Long Howl, we are sending Wolf Squadron over to escort you back to our hangar. ETA (estimated time of arrival) 1.5 minute.” Admiral Doc’s voice spoke through the speaker inside the Long Howl’s cockpit.

“Roger that, sir.” Bumper directed all shield and front cannon energy to the engine. “We don’t have that much time, you old idiot!” He thought but he didn’t spit it out.

20 seconds later, the pirates emerged from hyperspace and started chasing the Long Howl from 3.0 kilometers right behind her.

“They are gaining on us! We will be caught before Wolf Squadron can save us!” Emkay started to worry about the situation.

Bumper pushed the shield energy button twice and asked Emkay “I am going to give up all shield energy to gain some more speed. Is it possible to direct energy from the quad laser cannons to the engine?”

“Too risky, the engine might overload and disabled.” It is a negative.

Although Bumper direct all energy to the engine, the Long Howl barely reached 81 MGLT because her cargo was slowing her down. On the other hand, the pirates were gaining on the Long Howl.

Tricksy asked curiously “Why didn’t they fire torpedoes upon us?”

“They want us alive and our cargo, so they don’t want to blow this ship up.” Rina replied sarcastically.

“This is Wolf leader. We are on our way, just hold on.” A voice came through the speakers aboard the Corellian Transport.

“General Balto!” Bumper was excited for having the very first conversation with the hero of Canis. “It’s a honor to fight along with you, the legendary hero of Operation Mercy Convoy (the previous episode).”

“You are the cadet who is going to be our newest member, right?” Balto asked

“Yes, sir! I am the new guy. The name is Bumper, sir!” Bumper replied cheerfully.

“You better watch out. These bad guys are 2 kilometers away from you.” Balto pointed out. “All wings report in.”

“Wolf 2 standing by.” Said Star who was piloting a T-65 X-wing.

“Wolf 3 standing by.” Reported Kaltag who was piloting a V-45 Wolf-wing.

“Wolf 4 standing by.” grumbled Nikki, who also a pilot of X-wing starfighter.

“Wolf 5 standing by.” Reported Jenna, the pilot of modified BTL-A4 Y-wing (LP).

“Wolf 6 standing by.” Said Dixie, the pilot of Slayn & Korpil B-wing assault fighter.

“Don’t you dare shoot these blue stuff at me! You pirates scums!” Bumper shouted with anger and frustration. The Long Howl took several hits and the shield rate almost dropped to zero. “If we take more hits, we are done for!”

“Long Howl, take evasive maneuver now!” Balto yelled through his comlink.

“Roger that.” Bumper pushed the control stick and made the ship dived suddenly, then he made a 180 degree roll and pushed the control stick again. This maneuver confused the pursuers and gave the Corellian Transport precious time to escape from being disabled.

“Nice move, big pup!” Rina said “But we need more than this!”

Now the Wolf Squadron became visible for Bumper and Emkay. “Wolf 2, 4 and 6. lock S-foils in attack position and accelerate to attacking speed.” Balto ordered through communication systems and the X-wings and B-wing unfolded their wings. Inside Balto’s A-wing cockpit, Balto armed his missiles and put his targeting sight on the leading pirate. When he acquired his target, he came up a daring idea. Balto adjusted his position that if he fire his missiles, the missile will hit the Corellian Transport instead of the pirate. Balto pull the trigger and ordered “Long Howl, dive! Dive!”

Bumper saw a pair of missiles came from the A-Wing and heard Balto order him to dive. He pushed the stick to the end and the ship made another sudden dive.

Inside the Firespray’s cockpit, the pilot fired a series of ion blasts but they didn’t hit the mark. Instead, he saw the Long Howl dived suddenly and a pair of concussion missiles hit his ship. While his ship spun helplessly, other pirates were disturbed and broke their attack formation. The Long Howl was saved from being disabled.

Balto’s A-wing was the first craft fly past the Long Howl and engaged the pirates. Kaltag joined the battle later with Star and Nikki right behind him. Dixie and Jenna engaged the Muurian when they entered the battle.

Star and Nikki made a fast kill by engaging the pirate Z-95 together. While Balto was engaging the Firespray attack ship and Kaltag was being out-maneuvered by the R-41. The Pursuer slipped away from the battle and fired a proton torpedo upon the Long Howl. Just after the Pursuer fired the second torpedo, Jenna managed to position herself right behind the Pursuer and fired her ion and laser cannons simultaneously. The Pursuer bugged off but Jenna was not able to intercept the warheads.

“Incoming torpedoes, 7 o’clock high!” Bumper warned Rina and Tricksy.

“I am aware of that!” Rina replied. She positioned her targeting sight on the incoming warheads and destroyed before they can do any harm on this ship. Now the Long Howl was far away from any threats from the pirates and heading to the hangar of Nenana.

On the other hand, Kaltag destroyed his opponent by linking his laser cannons together and a precise strike upon the R-41. The rotating cannon aboard the Firespray gave Balto a lot of trouble and caused Balto’s shield rate dropped to 53%. While the Firespray attempted to hunt down Balto by missiles, Star and Nikki joined the battle and inflicted significant damage on the Firespray’s shield with dumb fired torpedoes. Jenna and Dixie devoured the Muurian Transport with their crafts’ cannons and warheads in a short moment. Finally, Balto turned back and gave the finally blows on the Firespray with concussion missiles.

Chapter Two

The Wolf Squadron and Long Howl returned to Nenana without a scratch. After the first craft landed on the deck of Nanana’s hangar, the maintenance crew rushed toward the spacecrafts and started checking them for any damage.

The Long Howl was the first spacecraft entered the hangar and checked by the maintenance crew. One of the maintenance crew found something unusual attached on the upper hull of the Corellian Transport. He called Bumper who just walked away from the entry ramp and handed the weird device to Bumper.

“Thank you.” Bumper took the device away and walked toward Rina. “Hey, take a look at this. What is this thingy anyway?”

“Where did you find it?” Rina asked.

Bumper turned to the maintenance crew who found the device “Yo! Maintenance guy, where did you find this gadget?”

“Upper hull of your ship. What’s wrong?” the maintenance worker replied.

“Upper hull… Hey! Remember when we were being engaged the pirates by two elements attack formation?” Rina said.

“Yeah?” Bumper asked.

Rina explained what happened when she was using the upper quad laser cannon against the pirates. “The first torpedo fired by the Firespray is not a dud, it is a homing beacon.” She thought for a while “What kinda homing beacon can track spacecraft through hyperspace?”

“Have you heard Boba Fett before? One of the most famous bounty hunters in the galaxy.” Bumper said.

“What’s so special about him?” Rina asked.

“There is a rumor that Boba Fett has a kinda homing beacon which attaches the target ship by launching it with dummy proton torpedo. After the homing beacon attaches the target’s hull, he uses something uh… transceiver (contraband HoloNet transceiver) to track his target through hyperspace.” Bumper proudly showed his knowledge to the girl he loved.

“No wonder these pirates could track us down even we entered hyperspace.” Rina concluded.

“Hey, what is inside these containers” Bumper walked toward the maintenance crew who was taking containers away from the Long Howl.

A technician said, “These are the newest warheads developed by Rebel Alliance.”

“What kinda warheads?” Bumper asked curiously.

“Ion and Mag pulse warheads.” Balto answered Bumper’s question from behind.

“Oh, let me guess… Ion warhead should work just like concussion missiles except for it only disable enemy crafts instead causing physical damages.” Bumper tried to figure the function of these warheads from their names. “I couldn’t tell the function of Mag pulse warheads, sir.”

Balto smiled at the newest member of Wolf squadron, “Yes, you are right about the Ion pulse warheads. The function of Mag pulse warheads is knocking out a craft’s weapon system for 30 seconds instead of damaging a craft’s shield and hull.”

Balto handed Bumper a box, “This is your new uniform of Wolf Squadron. Flight Cadet Bumper, from nowadays, you are the newest member of the most elite flight team of Royal Canis Navy.” Balto continued seriously “We choose you as our newest recruit because you are an outstanding freighter pilot and your tactical mind on fighter to fighter battle. We expect you to perform well in further missions.”

Bumper saluted, “I won’t let you down, sir!”

“Dismiss. Beside, we prepared a welcoming party for you, Rina and Tricksy. Meet us at the cafeteria at 1900.” Balto walked toward to other Wolf Squadron members.

Inside the bridge of Nenana, Vice-admiral Doc and newly promoted Commodore Kemo were discussing the newly imported warheads and the recently hired mercenary - Tricksy.

V-Admiral Doc was reading the profile of Bumper, Rina and Tricksy when Commodore Kemo was discussing with other high-ranking officers.

“Male Saint Bernard, RCN flight cadet, 44 years old (equivalent to 21 human years), 197 cm and 109 kg. Humph! This guy looks like a wrestler more than a pilot.” “Female Collie, civilian pilot, 50 (24 human years) years old, 178 cm and 60 kilogram. Perhaps she looks a little bit too gentle…” “Female, half wolf, quarter Malamute and quarter Shepherd, free-lance mercenary, 42 (20 human years) years old, 179 cm and 57 kilogram. I bet that she is a cocky gal.” Doc chuckled, “They are the mutts from hell.”

A high-ranking officer asked “I do understand that why we recruit these two freighter pilots, but I don’t understand that why we hire a mercenary.”

“We will need any help we can get, especially from our own race.” Doc replied “Beside, Tricksy could be a commando for our force.”

“The new warheads will help us to capture any new TIE fighters developed by the Empire for sure.” Commodore Kemo said. “What’s happened after Commander Steele of Blue Squadron being court-martialed for deceiving superiors officers and assaulting fellow pilot?”

“Well, he is on probation right now for his deed. He would return active duties a month later, but he won’t be able to command his own flight team anymore.” V-Admiral Doc replied.

Chapter Three

At 1900 hours, inside the cafeteria of Nenana.

Bumper, Rina and Tricksy entered the cafeteria and saw members of Wolf Squadron, an Afghanistan Hound, a Russian Geese and two polar bear cubs sit around a big table. Balto introduced the newcomers to the rest of the squadron and his friends.

“Welcome!” Kaltag gave the trio a warm greeting.

“Hi 'dere. It’s a pleasure to meet you all.” Nikki said.

“You guys must have a really rough ride when you were being chased by the pirates. What’s the difference between flying a freighter and a fighter? Rina, have you fly Canis fighters before and … ouch!” Again, Star started asking stupid questions.

“What kinda stupid question is that? Of course Rina never fly Canine fighters before because she is a civilian pilot.” Kaltag slapped Star’s head to stop him asking stupid questions.

“Whoa! You are really huge! You are even taller and bigger than V-Admiral Doc.” Dixie was amazed by Bumper’s gigantic size.

After the greeting, these people started chatting and eating. Jenna, Dixie and Sylvie quickly befriended the newcomers, Rina and Tricksy. The ladies soon found their topics and started chatting. Balto was the one who started the chatting among the flyboys. Besides talking with his fellow pilots, Bumper ate as much as he could. Others were amazed (or disgusted) by his never-ending appetite that overwhelms Steele’s. During the dinner, Tricksy found out that Kaltag was one interesting Canine yet attractive for her. She tried to have as much conversation with Kaltag as possible, but Tricksy only found out that she need some “private moment” with Kaltag.

After the dinner, everyone headed his/her own living quarters. Boris, Muk and Luk returned to their Canis Light Frigate, the Trawler. Star and Nikki said goodbye and back to their living quarters. Sylvie returned to the bridge to continue her routine work on the bridge. Kaltag and Tricksy walked to the bar and planned to have some chatting and drinks. Jenna returned to her place while Bumper was talking to Balto.

“Permission to speak freely, sir?” Bumper asked.

“Granted.” Balto replied.

“Can you teach me how to uh… get the girl? Sir?” Bumper was embarrassed to ask this question.

“I’ve already aware that you have a crush on your partner. Tell me what’s wrong between you and her.” Balto asked gently so he won’t upset Bumper.

“Duh… uh… I dunno… Oh! I just cannot tell Rina that I love her because I am too wuss to do that. I really can’t bear her reaction if I tell her I love her and ask her out.” Bumper explained his situation nervously.

“Unlike me, this guy is not the shy type…” Balto thought, “If the problem is not shyness, what is it?” Balto asked, “How long have you guys know each other?”

“Beats me, we has known each other since we were pups. We did many deals and deliveries since we bought the Long Howl together…” Bumper started being distracted by himself.

“Wait, Rina is older than you, right?” Balto interrupted.

“Yeah?”

“You always take order from her and she always look after you since you two knew each other. Am I right about this?” Balto continued. “Gotcha!”

“That’s right, but what does this do with my relationship with Rina, sir?” Bumper asked impatiently.

“This guy is that kind of mutt who need direct advice. I am going to tell him his problem directly.” Balto replied “Don’t get upset when you heard this. You worry about Rina’s reaction for your love because you sort of afraid of her.”

Bumper was shocked, “Afraid… I fear not…nothing. Sir!” “Thanks anyway, sir.” Bumper turned away and left. “Uh… One more question, sir. Where I can find Captain Jenna? I need to talk to her.”

“Come with me, big guy.” Balto lead Bumper to the pilots’ quarters of Nenana. “Remember, just call me Balto when we are not on duty.”

Bumper said, “Yes sir! Uh… I mean Balto. Uh…” Balto chuckled as Bumper tried to change his habit.

Balto opened the blast door of his and Jenna’s living quarter. “Jenna, Bumper need to talk to you. I will leave you two alone, alright?”

“No problem.” Jenna replied as Balto left the room. “I can see that you have problems with the one you love. What can I do for you?”

“Uh… Actually, I would like to know how did Balto grab your attention and eventually become your lover.” asked Bumper.

“Well, Balto didn’t do anything too special to impress me. He earned my love by being himself and proved his noble characteristics in his deeds. What I can tell you is that you have to be yourself and believe in yourself. I can see that you lack self-confidence. I’ve read your profile. You are a good freighter pilot and you have been chosen to be a member of Wolf Squadron. Although you are not really charming and smart, your good-natured personality and wisdom make you a really good person. Don’t underestimate yourself, you will doing fine with Rina.” Jenna patted Bumper’s shoulder gently.

“Gee, thanks.” Bumper smiled with embarrassment “I haven’t heard praise from others except for Rina and Emkay for a long time. This makes me feel uh…flattered.”

Bumper asked anxiously “Uh… But, but what if she get mad at me for asking her to go out with me.”

“She won’t get mad at you for asking her out.” Jenna assured “Besides, it always worth a try.”

On the other hand, Balto was having conversation with Rina, who was checking her Corellian Transport YT-2000 Long Howl.

“You are a good pilot, navigator and computer technician. Why don’t you join Royal Canis Navy as well? You will be offered good position by the high command.” Balto asked.

“Well, I want to finish several big “deals” before I settle down. After that, I am going to get a better sublight engine for my ship with the credit I will earn.” Rina replied, “Could you hand me the wrench right there please?”

Balto handed Rina the wrench “Thanks.”

“Done.” Rina sealed the hull and turned to Balto “I don’t think so that the business of Royal Canis Navy is your ‘primary objective’. What brings you here anyway?”

“Well, it’s about Bumper.” Balto said.

“Bumper? What did this big pup done this time?” asked Rina.

“He didn’t do anything wrong. Actually, he has some problems with you.” Said Balto.

“Well, what’s his problem?” asked Rina.

“Do you ever aware that Bumper has a crush on you?” Balto questioned her awareness on her partner.

“I’ve already known that. He has had a crush on me since we were pups. Anyway, I like him a lot, but he is not mature enough for me. He still acts like a pup in many ways. I really like to see Bumper become a real adult, from his body to his heart. That’s the mutt I really want.” Rina told Balto her expectation upon Bumper. “Besides, a guy don’t have courage to ask the girl he like to go out with him cannot be called mature. I wonder when will Bumper have the gut to ask me out.”

“Oh, I see.” Balto replied.

Kaltag and Tricksy were sitting along the empty bar table in the edge of the cafeteria. Kaltag shared stories about his career so far as a pilot of RCN and Tricksy shared hers as well. They found that they had a lot in common.

“How do you feel being a mercenary?” Kaltag asked.

“Well, the life of being a mercenary is full of adventures and actions,” Tricksy replied. “But it’s just like a drifting leaf on a river. My life will never settle down as long as I am a merc.”

“Would you like some more Zairona Ale?” Kaltag asked.

“No, thanks.” Tricksy said. “That’s enough drink for me.”

“You are welcome.” Kaltag smiled “Why the High Command hire you to work with us? There is nothing really special happening now.”

“Yeah, I think the High Command is hiding something from us. Something requires a lot manpower.” Tricksy agreed.

“Anyway, shall we change the subject? Something more… personal.” Kaltag said.

“Kaltag, you know what? I never have such a feeling, but I really like you, a lot.” Tricksy said with a little embarrassment and leaned against Kaltag.

Kaltag smiled with a flush on his face “Tell you what, I have the same feeling about you too.”

Both Kaltag and Tricksy never believed things such as “falling in love at the first sight”, but now they really believed in it because they knew that they were in love. Tricksy blushed slightly and slid off of Kaltag. The two stared into each other's eyes and immediately something struck the both of them. Her female instincts took over and the rubbed her head against Kaltag's neck. He rubbed the top of her head and soon they were nuzzling and licking each other.

Inside the hangar of Canine Heavy Cruiser Nenana, a malamute was setting charges around the hangar unnoticed. Once the charges were set, this large framed malamute sneaked to a V-45 Wolf-Wing which set in the very corner of the hangar. It was Steele. Steele turned on several switches and began the startup procedure.

“Pilot, what’s your identity and your destination?” The control room crew asked through comm-unit.

Steele didn’t respond the question and grabbed a remote control out of his pocket. He steered his starfighter to the exit of the hangar and pushed the throttle.

“Pilot, identify yourself. I repeat, identify yourself.” The control room crew ordered.

There was no response from Steele. Suddenly, a loud bang came from everywhere of the hangar, then smoke filled the whole hangar while Steele’s V-45 flied out of the hangar.

Chapter Four

After Steele escaped from the Nenana, the alarm screamed with jarring sounds through the whole cruiser.

Balto and Rina were not able to recover their sight and hearing ability in a short time due to the loud bang and flash from the flash charges set by Steele. They were struggling to regain their balance and trying to figure out what just happened.

“Alert! Alert! All pilots report to the hangar immediately.” The voice from speaker said.

Members of Wolf Squadron and other Canine units rushed to the flight hangar of Nenana. Nikki and Star were first pilots who entered the scene. What they saw was a room full of smoke. After the smoke being extracted, they saw fresh burn marks on the walls and several maintenance crew and pilots were struggling to get up. This two helped Balto, Rina and others to get up. In the same moment, Jenna, Dixie and Bumper entered the hangar as well. The last ones who arrived were Kaltag and Tricksy.

“Balto, What happened?” Star asked Balto.

“I don’t know, Star. When I was chatting with Rina, we heard a loud bang and we were shocked by the flash and noise.” Balto shook his head.

“Attention all pilots, enter your craft immediately and intercept an escaping V-45 Wolf-Wing!” Admiral Doc said through the speaker.

“Alright! Guys, let’s get moving” Balto and others entered their crafts, then began startup procedure and piloted them out of Nenana.

Balto’s A-wing took the lead and other crafts followed him and formed a line up formation. The craft stayed right behind Balto’s A-wing was Star’s X-wing. Follow-ups were Kaltag’s V-45, Nikki’s X-wing, Jenna’s Y-wing, Dixie’s B-wing and the Long Howl.

“Bumper, now you are designated as Wolf 7.” Balto said.

“Roger that, sir.” Bumper replied.

“Wolf Squadron, bridge, the escaping V-45 is 5 kilometers away from you. Change course to 230 and pitch up 3 degrees.” said Sylvie, the communication officer who just transferred back to Nenana.

“Roger that. Bridge.” Balto said, “All crafts, redirect all your weapon and shield energy to your engines.”

“I wonder who is the guy.” Kaltag said.

“We have confirmed the escaping pilot. Believe it or not, it’s Steele.” Sylvie reported through comlink.

“’Dere goes your question, Kaltag.” Nikki said.

“Steele? The nasty malamute who almost screwed Operation Mercy Convoy?” Bumper asked intentionally.

“Yep, that’s the guy.” Jenna said.

“I would really love to meet this jerk personally… and give him some lessons.” Tricksy said with an aggressive grin.

“Yeah, right.” Dixie replied.

Moment later, Balto had the first visual contact with Steele’s V-45 and locked it with his new ion pulse warhead. “Steele, lower your speed and return the Nenana with us immediately.” Balto said.

“This is none of your business.” Steele replied with a snarl.

“Steele, don’t do it. Surrender before it’s too late.” Jenna said through comlink.

“Shut up, you mutts don’t know a thing.” Steele shouted out loud.

“You forced us to do it by the hard way, Steele.” Balto fired a pair of ion pulse warhead upon Steele.

When the warheads almost hit Steele, Steele’s V-45 entered hyperspace and the warheads missed their target.

“Are you thinking what I am thinking? Emkay.” Rina asked Emkay.

“Steele might defect to the Empire because…” Emkay turned to Rina and said.

“Perhaps…” Bumper started pondering.

Balto sighed and ordered his squad heading back to the Nenana.

Chapter Five

In an unknown system, there were a Super Star Destroyer and five Imperial Star Destroyers and various smaller vessels cruising through the quite area. Three cargo ships emerged from hyperspace and headed to the SSD. Inside the bridge of the Super Star Destroyer the Vengeance, the dark Jedi, Jerec and his most trusted Jedi comrades, Boc and Sariss were reading the data of planet Canis through the hologram projector. A high-ranking officer walked into the control room and reported “Lord Jerec, the first three squadron of the TIE experimental fighters are delivered.”

“Very well. I want these TIEs assembled as fast as possible. Tell Admiral Zaarin that Maw is on his way to train Dark Siders for him.” Jerec ordered his officer.

“Yes sir.” The officer said, “About the technology readout sir…”

Jerec raised his hand and stopped the officer “Don’t worry the readout. Our technicians are capable to get the readout from the three types of new TIE just delivered.” Jerec looked at the hologram of the new TIE fighters, “Besides, Zaarin want Dark Siders so badly that he would pay any price for it.”

“Lord Jerec, we just picked up an unknown spacecraft 30 kilometers away from our fleet. It is heading toward to the Vengeance.” Another officer said.

“Send TIE fighters and TIE interceptors to intercept this craft.” Jerec ordered.

“What kind of lunatic would dare to challenge our mighty fleet alone? Nobody dare challenge our mighty fleet alone, unless he is stupid or idiotic. Heh heh heh.” Boc started making fun with the situation.

“It might be a defector.” Sariss said.

Inside the cockpit of the “unknown” craft, a paw reached the communication console and adjusted the frequency. The pilot said “This is Commander Steele from Royal Canis Navy. I wish to defect to the Galactic Empire.”

Jerec reached the microphone “Well, well, well, what brings you here?”

“I seek revenge.” Steele said “I want to revenge all Canines who humiliated me, who support the damnable hybrid and banished me away from the group I used to be.”

“We can discuss your pity past and your intention later. Now my TIEs will escort you to the Vengeance’s main hangar.” Jerec said with a grin. He turned to Boc and Sariss “This Canine will provide us valuable information to conquer Canis and destroy it’s pity little fleet.”

“How do we know that he is on the same side with us, not a mole (double agent) who just want to steal our information?” Sariss asked.

“We shall see.” Jerec concluded the conversation. “We shall go to the hangar to meet this mutt.”

Out side the Vengeance, Steele’s fighter was escorted to the main hangar of the Vengeance by two TIE fighters and two TIE interceptors.

Inside the hangar, Jerec, Boc and Sariss were already there and waiting for the arrival of Steele. Steele’s V-45 entered the hangar and landed on the deck. After Steele shut down the power of the Wolf-Wing, he climbed out of the fighter and walked toward the three Dark Jedi.

“Greeting! My Canine friend. Paw shaking please. Heh heh.” Boc greet Steele with his usual sense of humor.

Steele ignored Boc and stared at Jerec arrogantly. He said “Although I don’t like Imperials, I have greater hate against my former companions and my rival - the hybrid, Balto.” Steele continued “All I wish to do is to revenge, because I have nothing left in Canis and RCN.”

“I can only sense hate, nothing but hate. His loyalty to us is based on hate and aggression, which is enough for me.” Jerec nodded, then said. “Very well, you shall be one of us. To prove your loyalty, you have to do something big enough to weaken the Royal Canis Navy.”

“Well, I can provide you technology readout of most RCN capital ships and starfighters.” Steele said.

“That would be valuable for our force and ensure our victory against the Canines.” Sariss said.

“Pity that you are not strong in Force. If you are strong in Force, you can be one of us ‘cause you got everything except for fear.” Boc commented.

“Humph!”

Chapter Six

After Steele’s escape, the Royal Canis Navy High Command had great concern on the information leaking would caused by Steele, especially on their newly developed Wolf-Den Class Assault Carrier. Despite the concern of High Command, nothing happened in the following week. On the other hand, Kaltag and Tricksy became inseparable. Kaltag and Tricksy were always seen together, whether walking down the halls or just hanging out with the other dogs. They didn't mind kissing in front of the others. They loved each other and didn't care who knew it. Everything seemed to be okay until the second week of the arrival of Bumper, Rina and Tricksy.

Outside of the Planet Canis, Canine Heavy Cruiser Nenana, Canis Light Frigate the Trawler and several smaller ships docked on a large orbital space station. Inside the large restaurant of the station, the group of Canines was having their meals.

“Couple days ago, I just intercept some messages from our patrolling ships.” Sylvie said, “Beo-wulfe Class Corvette Little Fang and Canis Light Frigate Long Claw were attacked by weird looking TIE fighters. Before they can transmit me the information of these new TIEs, they were destroyed. When the reinforcement arrived, there was nothing but debris of our ships, and no survivors.”

“God damn!” Bumper cursed.

“No swearing! You know I hate this.” Rina stared at Bumper.

“Alright! Alright!” Bumper whimpered.

“Anyway, do you guys think so that Steele gave away information about our fleet and caused this?” Balto looked around everyone around the table.

“I think so.” Kaltag said.

“Me too. Maybe Steele seeks revenge for being on the probation list and banished, ‘dere.” Nikki commented.

“What kinda weapon would cause such damage in a short moment?” Star asked.

“Well, that’s what we need to find out.” Jenna said.

“And Steele.” Dixie added.

After the meal, Balto and Jenna walked toward Bumper who was last one finished the meal.

“Are you still having trouble with Rina?” Jenna asked.

“Yeah. Just look at them” Bumper pointed at Kaltag and Tricksy, who were nuzzling each other. “I wonder how did they fall in love so fast. I just don’t know how to win a woman’s heart. I am such an idiot, useless food bag.”

Balto saw Bumper’s sad face and tried to comfort him. “You are not useless and stupid. You just don’t know the way to do it. First, you really need the gut to say the magical sentence ‘I love you’ and ask her to go out with you. Second, you must change yourself. You cannot act like this anymore. You should be mature as your body is.”

Jenna said, “Chin up, you will doing fine.”

Bumper sighed and headed back to the Long Howl.

Jenna turned to Balto and said “The big guy will need a lot of time to be more confident on himself and confess his love to Rina”

“Yep.” Balto agreed “It’s all up to himself.”

When Bumper returned the hangar of Nenana, he saw Rina already waiting for him beside the Long Howl.

“Hey! Big pup.” Rina said, “We are going to get a ship load of precious metals for Royal Canis Shipyard from Sullust, so let’s get moving.”

“Yes ma’am.” Bumper followed Rina to the Long Howl.

In a short moment, the Corellian Transport departed from Nenana and set course to the volcanic planet Sullust. After the departure of the YT-2000, Wolf-Squadron departed from Nenana for routine patrol missions. In the same moment, Tricksy was taking simulator-training course for improving her gunnery skills and piloting skills.

Chapter Seven

“Good luck on this run, guys.” Balto said.

“Thank you, general. We’ll see you in three days.” Rina replied.

“See you later.” The starfighters split away from the Long Howl resumed their patrolling course while the YT-2000 entering hyperspace.

Inside the cockpit of the Long Howl, Bumper, Rina and Emkay were chatting about the events happened recently.

“I hate to say this, but I have a bad feeling about this run.” Bumper said with a frown.

“Don’t worry, we are going to deliver the stuff to the right place just like before.” Rina reassured Bumper. “Besides, we have the best ship, right? Emkay?”

“Yep. Somebody can outrun this ship alright, but nobody outgun this ship.” Emkay replied.

The blue light turned into countless white lines, then the white lines turned into stars. “Okay, this is it.” Bumper pointed the planet in front of the ship.

“Who will provide us the ores this time?” Emkay asked.

“Nien Nunb. We will meet him at the surface of the planet so he can transfer the containers to us from the Sublight Queen. Because the environment of the surface of Sullust, we won’t able to put the cargo into our freighter.” Rina continued the briefing, “Instead, we will use tractor beam to take the cargo away and we’ll put the cargo inside our ship on somewhere safe.”

The Corellian Transport entered the Sullustan space and landed on the rendezvous point. Several minutes later, a light freighter landed beside the Long Howl and dropped four containers.

Inside the light freighter Sublight Queen, Nien Nunb the Sullustan pirate turned on the comm-link and spoke a series of Sullustan. Back to the Long Howl, Bumper confirmed the cargo and adjusted frequency to download the route and coordinates from Nien Nunb. “It’s a pleasure to work with you.” Emkay said in Sullustan and the Sullustan replied, “No problem (Sullustan).”

After the Sublight Queen left the scene, Bumper picked up the cargo by using tractor beam. “According to the route and coordination he just gave me, we can leave the Sullustan space without disturbing the patrolling crafts and find a safe place to put our cargo into the ship.”

“Alright then, let’s move.” Rina ordered.

“Aye, aye, ma’am.” The Long Howl left the rendezvous point and headed to the deep space.

Everything worked out just fine before the Long Howl prepared for the last hyperspace jump to the Royal Canis Shipyard. A moment after the Long Howl emerged from hyperspace and made radio contact with the shipyard. A group of four TIE Advanced (or TIE Avenger) emerged from hyperspace and attacked the Corellian Transport. Later, two Assault Gunboats entered the attack run as well.

Inside the command center of the shipyard, messages from the Long Howl filled the room and the communication officers tried to get everything under control.

“Command, this is Long Howl. We are being attacked by four TIE Avengers and two Gunboats.” A female voice came out the speakers of the command center.

“Wolf Squadron is on the way to help you.” The communication officer said.

“Negative, we almost make it to the jump point. Beside, it will be too late…” The communication were cut and the officers only heard the irritating static sound.

“Damn, we lost Long Howl and the shipment.” The commander of the shipyard said, “It is a grave day for the Royal Canis Navy.”

Moment later, the Wolf Squadron entered the shipyard space. Balto’s voice came through the speaker “Command, this is Wolf Leader, what just happened?”

The commander said with grieves “The Long Howl were attacked by the Imperials and …probably destroyed as well.”

“Wolf Leader, I am picking up something emerging from hyperspace.” Jenna reported.

“What is it? Wolf five.” Balto asked.

“You won’t believe it, it’s a YT-2000 just entered this space.” Jenna said cheerfully.

“Well, let’s check it out.” Kaltag suggested.

The squadron changed the course to meet the Corellian Transport. “It is the Long Howl!” Jenna used her advanced sensor to obtain the ID of the YT-2000. She turned on the commlink and attempted to communicate with the Long Howl, but there was no response from the freighter.

“We better take a closer look at ‘dem.” Nikki said.

“They might be heavily damaged.” Star added as the fighter group approaching the freighter.

Balto was the first one who had clear visual contact with the Long Howl. There were several “fresh” burn marks on the hull of the Corellian Transport and the some of the compartments were heavily damaged. When Balto looked at the cockpit of Long Howl, he saw Bumper, Rina and the droid Emkay were waving at him.

“They are okay,” Balto said to everyone in the scene “Their communication array is fried so they cannot communicate with us.”

After Balto check the condition of the Long Howl from outside, the Wolf Squadron led the Long Howl into the shipyard for unloading cargo and repairing.

Chapter Eight

Inside the shipyard, the maintenance crews were working on the damaged YT-2000 and working droids were hauling the containers away from the ship. The crews of Long Howl were telling what they just had been through to the Wolf Squadron.

“This one was too close!” Bumper commented, “If the Imperials arrived the scene a little bit earlier, we were dead.”

“I think we have a security breach in our network.” Rina pointed out. “Originally I thought Nien Nunb was the canary, but he is one of the most loyal supporter of Rebel. Second, he don’t even know our schedule and our route back to the shipyard.”

“Maybe Steele is able to hack into the RCN network because he had high authority before he get banished?” Bumper suggested.

“If Steele gives every bit information about us to the Empire, we are all in great danger.” Dixie said.

Balto turned to Bumper and said, “We are going back to the Nenana now to report the current situation. You will return to the Nenana as soon as your ship is fully operational.”

“Yes sir.” Bumper replied.

“Emkay, Bumper, let’s join the maintenance crew so we can put this baby back to the air as soon as possible.” Rina said.

“And the new modification which will kick a lot of Imperial butts.” Emkay added.

“What modification?” Bumper asked.

“Do you remember our smuggling compartment right behind the lower turret?” Rina replied, “We are going to modify the smuggling compartment as a bomb bay. I also made some modification on the co-pilot seat that I can do the job of bombardier.”

“This means you will eventually join the RCN, right?” Bumper asked with expectation, because he always hoped Rina would join RCN so they can always be together.

“Perhaps.” Rina said, “Let’s get moving now. Time is money.”

Two days later, the YT-2000 Transport left the Royal Canis Shipyard and returned to Canine Heavy Cruiser Nenana.

Chapter Nine

Inside the bridge of Super Star Destroyer Vengeance, Jerec and Steele were discussing about their plan against the Canines.

“Your information proved to be valuable for us. The TIE experimental series demonstrated their power against the pity Canine Cruiser and Corvette.” Jerec said, “Now we shall start our second part of our plan - annihilation of the Wolf Squadron.”

“Yes, the Rebel Alliance and Canines are relied on the quality of the starfighters, not the quantity. Taking out the several fighters hurts them a lot because they cannot produce a large number of crafts in a short time and good pilots are hard to find. Beside, taking out Wolf Squadron will hurt Royal Canis Navy more then taking out several cruisers.” Steele commented.

“Most members of the Wolf Squadron were your friends. You should know them pretty well. Do you have any idea to lure them into our trap?” Jerec asked.

“Hum… There is the plan. First, I am going to make an appointment with the Wolf Squadron.” Steele continued “I’ve already hacked into Royal Canis Navy Network when I decided to betray them. I can leave a message in the network that suggests I am a double agent and I have your plan of the invasion.”

Steele continued with a grin, “This message will lure them into our trap for sure. I am going take your most elite pilots with me to take these mutts down.”

Next morning, the members of Wolf Squadron and the newcomers were summoned to the briefing room of Nenana. Inside the briefing room, Vice Admiral Doc was displaying a message he just received.

“This is Steele. I have become a double agent under the command of the Imperial warlord, Jerec. I have the most important information about the newly developed TIE experimental fighters and Jerec’s plan to invade Canis. I demand a meeting with the Wolf Squadron on the fifth planet of The Canis System at standard time 1500.”

“Why should we believe him?” Dixie argued.

“Yeah, he lied and betrayed us once. It is possible that he would betray us twice and cost our lives.” Kaltag agreed.

“We cannot take any chance. If Steele is telling the truth and we don’t believe him, Jerec will invade our home planet without any resistance.” V-Admiral Doc explained, “I will have the fleet ready for the battle against Jerec’s fleet. The Rebellion has offered us help and the Liberty fleet is on the way to Canis System.”

“Lt. General Balto, you will lead the Wolf Squadron to the fifth planet to rendezvous with Steele.” Doc made the final decision. “Flight Cadet Bumper, there’s still no available craft for you, so you will fly Long Howl along with your crew which will include Miss Rina, Tricksy and Droid Emkay.”

“Yes sir!” the pilots saluted and left the briefing room.

Inside the hangar of Nenana, the pilots rallied in front of Balto’s A-wing while the maintenance crews were fueling the spacecrafts.

“I have a feeling that this mission is going to be really…uh…big.” Bumper said.

“Relax, big guy, you always think too much. Thinking too much won’t do you any good.” Rina comforted Bumper.

“Get Long Howl fully loaded with space bombs and warheads. We might confront any unpleasant surprise during the meeting; so Bumper, I want you load one of the launcher with missiles and another one with heavy rockets.” Balto ordered, “Star, Nikki, your crafts will carry the new ion pulse and mag pulse warheads this time. Jenna, Dixie, you will take proton torpedoes as usual. Kaltag and I will carry advanced concussion missiles.”

Kaltag turned to Tricksy “I hope the simulators do improve your gunnery skill, because we are going to see a lot of action today. Good hunting.”

Tricksy kissed Kaltag’s cheek, “You too.”

“Alright! Pilots! Let’s get moving.” The pilots scattered and entered their own spacecrafts.

As the maintenance crew finished loading ordnance and withdrew the equipment from the spacecrafts. The spacecrafts lifted up and flied toward the exit in order.

Chapter Ten

From the outside of the Vengeance, a V-45 was leading four TIE/Advanced and six Assault Gunboats away from the Super Star Destroyer. A moment later, these crafts entered hyperspace and disappeared.

“Why did you let Steele inform the Canines our invasion plan, my lord?” Sariss asked.

“I’ve already known that Steele is a spy. All he wants from us is the secrets of the TIE experimental fighters and the invasion plan.” Jerec kept analyzing the situation. “As long as the information of the TIE experimental series don’t fall into the hands of the Canines, the unprepared Canine starfighters are no match against these deadly surprises. To ensure the information won’t be sent to the others, I’ve sent a small fleet consists an Interdictor Cruiser and other frigates to ambush them.”

“Even the Rebels are able to help the Canines against us, the reinforcement won’t be large enough because the Rebel fleet are scattering around the Outer Rim territory to evade other Imperial fleets.” Jerec grinned. “If any Rebel interfere our invasion, they shall be vanquished along with the inferior Canines.”

Jerec turned to the navigation officer, “Set course to the hyperspace jump point. The Interdictor Cruiser fleet should have the Wolf Squadron trapped in a short moment and we are going to take them out at once.”

In the space above the fifth planet of the Canis System, an A-Wing, two X-wings, one V-45, an Y-wing Long Probe, a B-wing and a YT-2000 emerged from hyperspace.

"Everyone be careful, this could be a trap and we should be ready for any unpleasant surprise by now.” Balto said through comlink. “What we have to do right now is waiting.”

“I am picking up eleven unidentified crafts emerging from hyperspace.” Jenna reported. “One V-45, four TIE/ad and six Gunboats. 8 kilometers away from us.”

Star shrieked “This is a trap!”

“What are we going to do?” Nikki asked.

“I would say let’s take these pigs down for good! Let them squealing from the feeling.” Tricksy showed her aggression through the comlink.

“Squeaking from the freaking.” Dixie added.

“Oinking from the boinking.” Bumper finished the line with a grin.

“Wolf Squadron, open S-Foil and accelerate to attacking speed.” Balto ordered.

In the cockpit of Long Howl, Tricksy run toward to the lower gunner pit while Emkay linked himself to the control console of upper turret. Rina sit in the co-pilot seat right behind Bumper who was piloting the Corellian Transport.

When the two groups of spacecrafts away from each other less than 2.5 kilometers, Steele’s V-45 reduced it’s speed in a sudden and the Imperials overpass Steele. Then Steele accelerated and locked a TIE/ad from behind while the Imperials were keeping their eyes on Wolf Squadron.

Inside the TIE/advanced fighter, the countermeasure system activated the alarm to indicate the fighter was being locked by missile. When the Imperial pilot pushed the controller forward, his fighter were hit by a pair of missiles and spun helplessly.

Inside Steele’s V-45, Steele turned several knobs and linked all of his laser cannons together. He put the spinning TIE/ad onto his target sight and fired. The TIE exploded as the laser blasts hit its hull.

“What the…” Kaltag said.

“He is a double agent! Wolf Squadron, take out the TIEs and Gunboats at once!” Balto said.

Balto, Kaltag and Steele soon engaged the remaining three TIE Avengers (nickname of TIE advanced).

Now three Gunboats were chasing the Long Howl. Due to the Gunboats’ stronger shield rate, Emkay and Tricksy were not able to drive them away as they did on conventional TIE fighters. In the same moment, Bumper and Rina tried to keep another Gunboat in their sights. Soon Bumper found out the Long Howl’s shield have already taken damages from the Gunboats’ cannons. The threats of the trio Gunboats soon vanquished as Star, Nikki and Dixie “bit” the Gunboats’ tails and caused them to disengage the Long Howl. After shaking away the Gunboats, the Long Howl teamed up with Jenna’s Y-wing and destroyed a Gunboat in a short moment. After taking out the lone Gunboat, Long Howl and Jenna started engaging other Gunboats. Now both sides are even numbered.

On the other hand, Balto found out that he had difficulty to follow the faster and more maneuverable TIE advanced. “I am having a hard time to follow the TIE/ad. I need some help.” Balto said through comlink.

“I am on it!” Kaltag turned his V-45 away from the TIE/ad he couldn’t followed and acquired Balto’s target. Kaltag launched a missile but it missed by a hair. “Darn!” Kaltag cursed.

“Don’t waste missiles on these TIE Avengers. They are too agile for missiles.” Balto said.

“Do I must do everything by myself?” Steele asked sarcastically as he maneuvered his V-45 and fired a series of laser blasts upon the TIE.

The TIE/ad suffered some damage and evaded Steele’s laser fire. While it attempt shaking Steele away, the TIE accidentally moved into the missed missile’s way and destroyed by the missile.

“Humph! That was lucky.” Steele said, but soon he found out he was being engaged by the two remaining TIE/ad.

Although Steele didn’t call any help, Balto and Kaltag know that Steele was in danger now. Both of them maneuvered to the rear of the two TIEs and managed causing some damages on them. As soon as the two TIE/ad bugged off, Steele recharged his shield for a while then returned to the dogfight.

In the same time, the last Gunboat was shot down by Dixie’s B-wing. After all TIE/ad and Gunboats are destroyed, the Canine regrouped and started recharging their shield.

“All right, Steele. What’s this all about?” Balto asked.

“You will know what’s going to happen after you take a look at this.” Steele adjusted the frequency and transmitted data to the rest of the Wolf Squadron.

“These TIEs are really freaky!” Star said.

“These TIEs are the ones responsible for the destruction of the Little Fang patrolling group.” Steele said. “The TIE/e1 equipped powerful turbolaser which is capable to take down a Corellian Transport in a short time.”

“Uh… guys?” Bumper interrupted.

“What is it?” Steele was pissed for being interrupted.

“Err…uh… never mind.” Bumper was afraid of Steele’s reaction.

“What’s wrong, big guy?” Rina asked gently, “If there’s anything you want to say, you should tell them.”

Bumper frowned in silence.

“The TIE/e2 has almost identical performance as conventional TIE/Ln except for the deadly rotating turrets. The escorting V-40s were shredded by this deadly design during the battle.” Steele continued, “TIE/e3 is slightly slower and lesser maneuverable than TIE Interceptor, but it’s had additional 16 concussion missiles.”

“I hate to say this, but I don’t feel really safe for staying here any longer.” Bumper interrupted again. This time, he didn’t hesitate. “You see, Jerec is a Jedi Knight. Nobody can deceive Jedi because Jedi can read others mind except beings strong in Force. This means Jerec might already know Steele is a spy. If we don’t send the information to the main fleet before Jerec catch us, our fighter groups will not able handle these deadly surprises.”

Few seconds later, an alarm went off in Jenna’s Y-wing.

Chapter Eleven

An Interdictor Cruiser, Lancer frigate, Carrack Cruiser and Imperial Star Destroyer the Orion emerged from hyperspace and launched one squadron of TIE/e1, TIE/e2 and TIE/e3.

“Oh my god! I am picking up an Interdictor Cruiser and various vessels entering this area. TIE fighters have been launched, 20 kilometers and closing.” Jenna shouted.

“We are all trapped! We are gonna die!” Dixie shrieked.

“Shut up!” Steele shouted, “I don’t know Jerec has a Interdictor Cruiser. I thought I had every bit information of his fleet. He hide this all the time because he already know that I am a mole (double agent) from the beginning.”

“General, request permission to send a distress call to the main fleet.” Rina requested.

“Permission granted, send the call as fast as possible.” Balto said. “I don’t want to let the battle happen above Canis. If the Imperials send ground troops and Dark Siders onto Canis during the space battle, the death toll would be really big.”

“I have an idea, sir.” Bumper said.

“What is it? Bumper.” Balto asked.

“Let’s use Vic formation against the TIE swarm. In order to prevent any of us being destroyed by the TIE swarm, I will place the Long Howl in the first place to draw enemy fire.” Bumper presented his idea, “You guys will take the flank positions and try to take out as many TIEs on the very first encounter with missile and lasers.”

“That’s a very brilliant idea! Cadet.” Balto was impressed by Bumper’s tactical skill, “Bumper, you will take the lead of the Vic formation. Steele, Jenna, we will take the left flank while Kaltag, Nikki, Star and Dixie take the right flank.”

The Canine spacecrafts formed a V-shape formation and headed to the incoming TIE fighters.

“5 kilometers and closing.” Jenna reported, “3 kilometers and closing.”

“Arm your missiles and acquire a target.” Balto ordered. “Fire at will when targets enter the missile fire range.”

After a short moment, missiles were launched from both sides and start tracking their targets. The missiles from the Canines took out three various experimental TIEs. Most missiles from TIE/e3 targeted the Long Howl. Fortunately, the quad laser cannons took out most of the warheads and only two warheads hit the Long Howl. While Bumper was trying to regain control of the Long Howl, the YT-2000 suffered series of laser blasts in the front and the shield rate soon dropped to 102% from 184%. Although the Long Howl took most damage, the rest of the squadron was virtually unharmed from the TIE swarm. After the swarm, the Wolf Squadron scored several kills by laser fire and started engaging the TIE fighters.

Balto’s agile A-wing proved to be deadly during dogfight. In a short moment, he took out two TIE/e3 and bit a TIE/e2’s tail. Although the rotating cannon inflict damages on Balto’s shield, Balto managed to take it out before the TIE can do any real harm. After Balto scored the kill of the TIE/e2, he found out that three TIE/e2 was chasing him and he couldn’t escape the accurate laser blasts from them.

“This is Wolf Leader. I need some help!” Balto called for help through his comlink as his shield rate dropped to 64% from 140%.

“I am on it, Wolf Leader.” Bumper responded the urgent call and maneuvered his ship to the scene.

The Long Howl approached the attacking TIE/e2 from the behind and locked one of them with tractor beam. After locked the TIE, Bumper fired several blasts with the front cannon and took out the TIE easily. Balto made a 180 degrees roll then pulled his control stick and his A-wing executed a Split-S. The remaining two TIEs kept chasing him but soon destroyed by Tricksy who was operating the lower turret. “Yahoo!” Tricksy’s cheerful voice came through everyone’s speakers.

“Wolf 7, hostile on your six!” Balto warned as he saw five TIE/e1 were firing turbolaser upon the Long Howl fanatically.

After taking several turbolaser blasts, the shield rate of the Long Howl dropped to 73%. “This is Wolf 7. Get these TIEs off my tail! We cannot keep taking blasts from them.” Rina said as Emkay killed one of the TIE/e1 by the upper quad laser cannon.

“This is Wolf 5, I am moving in.” Jenna replied the call and steered her Y-wing to the Long Howl. Soon Jenna had a clear shot on the four TIEs and took out two of them easily. In the same moment, Emkay shot down another TIE and the last TIE pulled an evasive maneuver. Balto soon caught up the escaping TIE and fed him with laser bolts.

“We got more company, six Assault Gunboats, twelve TIE/Ln (regular TIE Fighter) and six TIE/int just launched form the ISD and Interdictor.” Jenna looked at her tactical display. “The Carrack Cruiser is 3.5 kilometers away from us now. The rest of the fleet are approaching us now.”

“Seven, a bunch of TIE/e3 are very close to you.” said Nikki. “Missiles fired from the TIE!”

Rina noticed there was no countermeasure warning and yelled, “They are dumb-fired, jink now!”

Bumper pulled up in the last second and only one missile hit the Long Howl. While the Bumper tried to regain control of the spinning YT-2000, the TIE/e3 had good looks at their prey again.

“They are on us again!” Emkay yelled when he took out one more TIE/e3.

“Don’t worry, I have them now.” Nikki said. Inside Nikki’s X-wing’s cockpit, Nikki adjusted his course and his target sight covered the target box, then he pulled the trigger. A series of laser blasts pound a TIE/e3 away and caused it exploded. The TIE/e3 broke their formation and Nikki followed one of them and started engaging it. Star’s X-wing followed up Nikki and started chasing another TIE/e3.

Balto looked at his tactical display and ordered, “Wolf 5, 6, 7. Engage the Gunboats at once.”

“Roger that, Wolf Leader.” replied Jenna. “Follow me, Wolf 6, Wolf 7.”

Jenna’s Y-wing, Dixie’s B-wing and the Long Howl broke away from the battle against experimental TIEs and headed toward the approaching Gunboats. While the TIE Fighters and TIE Interceptors headed toward to Balto, Steele, Star, Nikki and Kaltag, six TIE/Ln broke the formation and set course to help the Gunboats. After being swarmed by TIE Fighters and Gunboats, the shield of Long Howl dropped to 51%. During the swarm, one TIE fighter was taken out by Tricksy.

“We need to get our shield recharged.” Rina said. “We have to give up the tractor beam energy now.”

“I am going to use up the remaining energy in tractor beam battery now.” Bumper maneuvered the transport right behind a Gunboat and locked it with the tractor beam. Bumper linked the quad laser cannons and front cannons together then shredded the Gunboat in a few seconds. After the tractor beam battery depleted, Bumper directed all beam energy to recharge shield.

“Try to keep the TIEs busy for a while. We are going to take out the Gunboats.” Said Dixie.

“Yes, ma’am. We are engaging TIE Fighters now.” Bumper gave the gunners back the quad laser cannons and started tracking the TIEs.

While the Long Howl was fighting against the TIEs, Dixie directed the shield energy to the engine and got very close to a Gunboat. She dumb-fired a torpedo, then she directed all engine energy away and pull the throttle to 0%. The torpedo hit the Gunboat and sent it spinning helplessly. Dixie accelerated and linked all cannons together to finish the Gunboat.

“Nice move, Dix.” Jenna said.

A moment later, Jenna also destroyed another Gunboat as well while the Long Howl was dealing the remaining two TIE/Ln. In the same moment, Balto and others were being outnumbered but they managed to hold on.

“We cannot hold the Imperials forever, where is the main fleet?” asked Kaltag.

“I don’t know” Balto replied, “They should be here in any moment. I hope.”

As the deep space battle went on, the Long Howl finished the remaining two TIE/Ln and helped Jenna and Dixie finished the remaining Gunboats. As the three larger spacecrafts were freed from the dogfight, the situation turned to favor the Canines. Although the Carrack Cruiser joined the battle, but it didn’t cause too much trouble except for the larger Corellian Transport. Soon the laser turrets on the Long Howl busted several TIEs. The rest of Wolf Squadron and Steele started wearing down the remaining TIEs. After all TIEs were destroyed, the Wolf Squadron concentrated their firepower on the lonely Carrack Cruiser. Before the Orion and others could help the unlucky Carrack Cruiser, the Carrack Cruiser took the last blow and turned into a fireball.

Just after the destruction of the Carrack Cruiser, Super Star Destroyer the Vengeance emerged from hyperspace along four Imperial Star Destroyers, the Vinceroy, the Compellor, the Chancellor, the Vindicator and various smaller vessels. The dark blue hull of the Vengeance only reflected eerie blue radiance under the sunlight.

Chapter Twelve

“We are doomed.” Bumper said, “It is a pleasure to work with you guys.”

“Don’t give up!” Balto shouted, “None of us are going to die and we are all going to enjoy the rest of our lives. The main fleet will come to help us drive the Imperials away.”

“I have good news and bad news.” Jenna said, “The good news is that only two of Jerec’s Star Destroyers are ISD II. The bad news is that there are twelve Skyspray Blastboats being launched from the Vengeance.”

“Sorry, we are late.” Boris’ voice came through the comlink. “Did I miss any actions?”

“Nope, the fun just begin.” said Balto.

Two Therma T4-662 “Snowflake” attack fighters just launched from Canis Light Frigate, the Trawler. Muk and Luk soon joined the formation of starfighters.

“Where is the rest of our fleet?” Balto asked.

“Don’t worry about our fleet, they are on their ways. You should worry about yourself. Your shield almost gone! Take your fighter into the hangar and get your shield recharged.” Boris steered his ship toward the Canine fighters.

Balto steered his ship toward to the Trawler and said “Alright! Don’t worry about me, Boris. I am coming.” He reached the communication panel, “Wolf 7, I think you will need more shields against the next wave of fighters. Follow me to the frigate.”

“Acknowledged.” Bumper turned his ship away and followed the A-wing to the hangar of the Trawler.

Balto’s A-wing entered the hangar first and the maintenance droids connected several cables on the A-wing after it landed on the deck. In ten seconds, Balto’s shield rate was fully charged to 200% front and rear. After being recharged, Balto left the hangar and joined the formation while the Long Howl entered the small hangar of the Trawler. Because the larger size and the battery capacity of the Corellian Transport, the recharging procedure took the way longer than recharging ordinary starfighters.

While the YT-2000 was being recharged in the hangar, Balto’s voice came through the cockpit speaker. “Wolf 7, return to the formation immediately. Blastboats are approaching too fast.”

Bumper called off the maintenance droids and steered the transport away after the recharging cables were removed from the inputs. Now the shield rate of Long Howl was 130%.

Balto spoke to the pilots through comlink “We have to be more careful against these Blastboats. The laser turrets can be deadly against fighter from upper hemisphere, so try to attack them from the lower hemisphere. Second, we cannot allow them fire torpedoes too much upon the Trawler. If the Trawler is down, we will in big trouble.”

Again, the Canine spacecrafts formed a Vic formation and charged toward to the incoming Blastboats. When the two flight groups were 2 kilometers from each other, Muk and Luk concentrated their turbo-charged laser fire on one of the Blastboats. The Blastboat’s shield rate dropped to 105% from 200% in a few seconds and it broke away for recharging its shield. Now both sides entered the regular laser fire range and started exchanging cannon fires. Muk and Luk teamed up with the Long Howl and took down a Blastboat during the first pass, then the bears went after the first Blastboats they attacked. Muk and Luk’s turbo-charged laser cannons were surprising effective against the Blastboats and they’ve already scored another kill.

Despite their efforts, two Blastboats went through the dogfight and started their attack run on the Trawler. Boris looked at the tactical display in the bridge and he saw the threat of being torpedoed. He made a series of evading movements that force the Blastboats to fired warheads with guidance. The countermeasure system aboard the Trawler activated after the torpedoes being launched. A young officer entered a series of calculations into the computer to shoot down the warheads before they hit the frigate. Most of the warheads were intercepted by the anti-aircraft laser canons, but three torpedoes went through the laser fire and impacted upon the Trawler. The Blastboats linked their cannons and fired upon the frigate when they were away from the frigate less than 1 kilometer. After taking a salvo of cannon blasts, the Trawler’s shield rate dropped to 44%.

“Wolf Squadron, this is the Trawler, we are being shredded. Where the heck are you?” Boris shouted through the microphone.

“Wolf three, follow me.” Ordered Balto.

Balto’s A-wing and Kaltag’s V-45 rushed for the rescue. They each fired a pair of advance concussion missiles on the Blastboats and the more agile, faster missiles hit their mark and caused their targets lost control. When the Blastboats lost control, the gunners aboard the Trawler were able to destroy them with lasers.

On the other hand, the Long Howl was in trouble again. Two Blastboats were engaging the YT-2000 simultaneously. Strong shield and hull gave the Blastboats more time to engaging their target while taking defending fire. Bumper was not able to shake the pursuers off and the shield rate dropped to 70%. When the countermeasure system of the Long Howl indicated this ship was being locked by the Blastboats, two Snowflake Fighters went head to head with the Corellian Transport and fired a salvo of yellowish turbolaser. The turbo-charged laser blasts blew one of the Blastboats into a fireball and caused another bugged off.

“Thanks for your help.” Bumper appreciated the bears’ help.

“No problem, Long Howl.” Muk replied while he teamed up with Luk to engage another Blastboat. In the same moment, other Wolf Squadron pilots destroyed several Blastboats.

Just a few seconds later, Nenana and seven other Canis Heavy Cruisers entered the battle zone along eleven Canis Light Frigates and fifteen Beo-Wulfe Corvettes. There was a newly developed Wolf-Den Class assault carrier commanded by Commodore Kemo in the battle group as well.

“Hooray! The main fleet finally arrived!” Star yelled.

Now both sides started releasing all fighters they have. Squadrons of V-36, V-44 and V-45 were launched from the hangars of the Canis vessels while hundreds of TIE various TIEs swarmed out of the Star Destroyers.

“Command, where is the Rebellions? We cannot take down the Vengeance without the Mon Calamari Cruisers.” Asked Balto.

“The Liberty Battle Group will be here in four minutes and the Maria Battle Group will arrive in seven minutes.” Vice Admiral Doc replied, then he made a series of orders. “We are going to take out as much Imperial fighters as possible while avoiding direct contact with the Star Destroyers.”

There were total 83 various Canine fighters that include the Wolf Squadron. Their opponents were 228 TIEs (which include regular fighters, interceptors, bombers and experiment series), 24 Gunboats and 12 Blastboats. Now both sides were screaming toward each other. During the battle, Rina managed to send the data of TIE experimental series to the Nenana so the High Command could give instruction to the pilots who haven’t encounter the new TIEs. Because the Wolf Squadron survived and able to give the vital information back to the High Command, the deadly features on the new TIE didn’t pose a great threat to the Canine pilots.

On the tactical display, red dots were disappearing in a faster rate than the green dots were. Jerec looked at the tactical display inside the bridge of the Vengeance (although he was blind, he can see by using Force) and very displeased with the situation of the space battle.

“All ships engage the Canis vessels at once. I want the Canine crushed once for all!” Jerec ordered his ships move toward to the fighters and Canis ships to force the Canines to deal with the better armed Imperial Star Destroyers.

A group of TIE Bombers escaped from the battle and rushed to the Canine ships with horrifying scream. First, they all targeted a Beo-Wulfe Class Corvette and fired a series of advanced torpedoes from different angles. The anti-starfighter laser cannons of the Corvette had difficulty to intercept the faster and more agile torpedoes. After taking five torpedoes, the shield not only failed and the hull was heavily damaged. Several TIE Bombers gave the Corvette the final blow with lasers and the Corvette devoured by explosions after taking laser blasts.

A group of V-40 Foxx interceptors turned away from the battle to clear the bomber threats. Although the V-40 arrived in a short time and destroyed half of the bomber group, they were not able to prevent the downfall of a J-Class Light Frigate.

As the battle go on, an Imperial Nebulon-B Frigate and Assassin-Class Corvette first arrived to the fighter battle scene. The accurate targeting computer system and anti-starfighter cannons proved to be deadly against the Canis fighters. Three Canine fighters soon became the victims of the frigate and Corvette.

“Our fighters are being shredded by the frigate and the corvette! Take them out at once!” Commodore Kemo’s voice came through the speaker. In the same moment, another V-36 Hybrid was blew up by the AS (Anti-Starfighter) laser.

“I am on it.” Bumper said as he steered the Long Howl toward to the Corvette. Jenna, Dixie and five V-36 Hybrids followed the YT-2000.

“Give me some space. I am going to draw their fire away from you.” Bumper said.

“You got it.” The distance between the Long Howl and others was extended, then Bumper maneuvered the ship right between the Corvette and the Nebulon-B Frigate.

As the Long Howl entered the gap between the two Imperial vessels, laser fires from both ships rained around the Corellian Transport. Most of the laser fires not only missed the YT-2000, but also hit the fellow Imperial vessels accidentally.

“Hey! That was a very nice move!” Rina reached over and patted Bumper’s head.

The attacking Canine fighters wasted no time, they soon released their warheads and broke the formation. Only a few warheads were intercepted and the Imperial Corvette soon exploded into a fireball. The frigate’s shield failed and received some hull damage.

“Turn back, lets’ feed this frigate some rockets.” Rina said.

“Yes, ma’am.” Bumper turned the ship back and fired two rockets.

The first one was intercepted by the AS laser, but the second rocket hit the “neck” and blew the frigate into two large pieces.

“Yee-haw!” The radio filled with the voice of the crew of Long Howl as the transport flew away from the explosion. Four TIE Fighters and three Interceptors came in and started chasing the Long Howl, but Tricksy and Emkay took out two of them during the first pass. Unshielded TIEs didn’t give too much trouble to Emkay and Tricksy. The gunners finished off the attacking TIEs easily.

At meanwhile, Balto, Steele, Kaltag, Nikki and Star intercepted most TIE Bombers and remaining Blastboats. Unfortunately, there were more attacking runs committed by the bombers and Gunboats. In a short moment, one of the Canis Y-Class Heavy Cruisers lost its shield and took some hull damage. A group of V-40 and V-45 came to rescue the cruiser and took out most of the Gunboats.

Now the Canine Fleet had their first contact with Jerec’s fleet. The Canine vessels started fire upon the only Lancer Frigate among the Imperials. The Lancer Frigate was designed to deal with fighters. It’s poor shield and hull didn’t provide too much protection and forced it to stop attacking Rebel/Canine fighters and escape from the battle. Before the Lancer Frigate could find cover from the nearest ISD Orion, several B-wing disabled the drive units of the frigate and left it crippled. Soon a Canis Light Frigate spotted the chance and delivered laser fires to finish it. Although the Lancer Frigate didn’t survive long enough, it took away five pilots’ lives before devoured by flames.

“This is Admiral Yamarus of Mon Calamari Cruiser Liberty.” A voice came through the speakers of Nenana. “The Maria battle group will join us soon.” The Liberty battle group entered the battlefield from hyperspace and launched three squadrons of starfighters. The Liberty and her battle group soon picked their opponents and joined the ship to ship battle along the Canis Fleet.

While the ISD Orion was still trying to catch up the Canis and Rebel fleet, the smaller Canis ships such as Beo-Wulfe Corvette and Canis Light Frigate placed their flank position against the “nose” of the Orion and start a series of attack. Laser bolts from the Canis vessels rained down upon the hull of the Orion and caused the hull reflecting red radiance. The Liberty and the Nenana led the Canine Heavy Cruisers toward to the Orion and soon destroyed it.

Although the Rebels and Canines destroyed the first ISD they encountered easily, they were having close fire fight with the Interdictor Cruiser and ISD II the Viceroy. What made the matter worse for the good guys was that the Vengeance, the Compellor, the Vindicator and the Chancellor were approaching the battle scene fast.

Without the fighter threats from the Imperials, the Canine and Rebel pilots started their attack runs on the Imperial Star Destroyers. Soon the Interdictor Cruiser’s shield rate dropped to 11% by the warheads and forced it to find cover from the Super Star Destroyer. Although the Interdictor fled from the battle, the Compellor entered the firing range and teamed up with the Viceroy to take out the Canine Heavy Cruiser that was damaged by the Gunboats moment ago. Just after the destruction of the Canine Heavy Cruiser, a group of X-wing launched torpedoes and hit the Interdictor from behind. This attack caused the failure of the shield of the Interdictor and ceased one of its drive engines. The X-wing let go their crippled target reluctantly because there were greater threats needed to be dealt with.

“The Maria battle group just entered the battle zone in sector 14, 4 kilometers and closing to the Imperials.” A young officer reported the newest change of the battle to Vice Admiral Doc.

Soon the Maria launched all three squadrons of her starfighters and head straight to the Star Destroyers. In a short moment, the Maria battle group joined the firefight and managed to take down a Lancer Frigate. Unfortunately, the last Lancer Frigate had already destroyed two Rebel fighters and five Canine fighters. Now one-third of the Canine fighters was perished during this battle.

Inside the bridge of the Wolf-Den Class Carrier Snow Wolf, Kemo looked at the tactical display and frowned as another Canine Heavy Cruiser icon disappeared.

“Set course to sector 11, we are going to engage the Imperials now.” Kemo ordered.

“But sir! Snow Wolf is not designed to have direct battle against the battle ships.” The executive officer protested.

“I know, at least our stronger shield could hold on a little longer and give others cover to engage the Imperials.” Kemo explained to the officer.

“Aye, captain.” The executive officer replied. “Set course sector 11, engaging the Imperials now!”

In the space filled with laser fires and warheads, the Viceroy was sandwiched by the Liberty and the Maria. Turbolaser bolts rained on the Viceroy from both sides and the ill-fated Star Destroyer exploded to a huge fireball after another salvo of laser penetrated her hull. Just before the destruction of Viceroy, the turbolaser fires from the Vengeance knocked down two Beo-Wulfe Class Corvettes and a Light Canis Frigate.

“Pilots, try to target the shield generator domes on the Super Star Destroyer.” Said Admiral Yamarus.

Groups of fighters rushed toward the Vengeance and launched warheads on the domes. Unfortunately, the quad laser cannons on the SSD intercepted most of the warheads. With help of a Corvette above the upper hull of the SSD, some of the Canine and Rebel fighters were shot down by the Imperials. Turbolaser from the Vengeance also destroyed a Canine Heavy Cruiser and damaged another one.

“We have to start our bombing run now.” Rina said as she activated the bombing computer on the co-pilot seat. A monitor on the control panel powered up and showed a crosshair pointed the deep blue hull of the Vengeance.

The Long Howl screamed toward to the bridge of the SSD while the Wolf Squadron was distracting laser fires from the Corvette and SSD. Laser fires exploded around the YT-2000 and kept shaking the transport, but nothing could stop the heavily shielded ship from staying on the bombing course. Reddish laser blasts from the two quad laser cannons kept firing at the bridge and laser cannons on the Vengeance. Inside the lower gunner pit, Tricksy was firing laser bolts upon the AS cannons and turbolasers which were visible for her. Small explosions blew up around the ship just like fireworks. Although this made her nervous, she was also excited because of her adventurous and fearless nature. Sparks flied around the hull of the SSD as her laser fires struck upon the gigantic battle ship.

Inside the cockpit of the Long Howl, Rina was calculating the drop point of the space bombs carefully while the bridge and domes of the Vengeance was becoming more visible for Bumper.

Rina said calmly, “Stay on target.”

“Keep going, Wolf 7. We will buy you enough time.” Said Balto. “Wolf 2, Wolf 4, fire your Ion and Mag pulse warhead upon the Vengeance. This would disable the laser cannons on the Vengeance partially.”

Blue and purple bolts of energy were coming out from Star and Nikki’s X-wings. When the warheads hit the ship, blue and purple blazes spread around on the hull of the SSD. After several Ion and Mag pulse warheads hit the SSD, the turbolaser fires ceased a little bit but still posed a great threat for the Long Howl.

When the crosshair on the bombing monitor covered the top of the bridge of the Vengeance, Rina pressed the button to release the four space bombs in the bomb bay. Suddenly, the ship was shaken by a turbolaser blast and caused the third bomb and the fourth bomb away the dropping course.

After the space bombs were released, Bumper made an Immelman Turn and caused the upper hull of the ship to against the upper hull of the Vengeance. A series of turbolaser fires hit the ship and fried the front cannon, comlink and shield generators of the Long Howl.

The first bomb was intercepted by laser fire, but the second one hit the mark and destroyed one of the shield generator domes. The third one and the fourth one hit the hull of the ship and caused some damage on the shield.

Jerec sensed the potential danger of his fleet and ordered a general retreat. As the Imperial ships were headed away and proceeded to their hyper point, all of the Canine and Rebel fighters retreated from the battle due to their damage. The Canine ships and frigates disengaged from the battle and retrieve their fighters back while the two Rebellion battle groups assemble their ships and fighters. All fighters and frigates were retreated from the battle except for a single V-45 Wolf-Wing fighter.

It was Steele. Steele steered his fighter and launched all warheads he got from behind.

The crippled Interdictor was Steele’s target and Steele was determined to hunt it down. Most missiles hit the Interdictor Cruiser and caused serious damage on the cruiser. Steele linked all his laser cannons together and fired fanatically as he entered the firing range of the laser cannons. Six seconds later, the Interdictor exploded after taking too much damage from Steele. Although Steele scored the big kill, the explosion of the Interdictor cause the failure of Steele’s shield and some damage on the V-45. Steele limped his fighter away and set course to the Nenana. As his fighter was on the way back to the flagship of the Royal Canis Navy, sparks flied everywhere in the cockpit of the V-45 and a small explosion knocked Steele unconscious.

Although someone noticed the serious damage of Steele, the communication crews were too busy for taking fighters back to the hangars and didn’t pay too much attention on Steele.

Chapter Thirteen

Inside the hangar of Nenana, the members of Wolf Squadron were going to the briefing room to debrief except for Balto and Bumper.

“You were doing great in this battle! You should be proud for yourself.” Said Balto.

“Thank you, sir.” Bumper flushed, then he asked. “Where is Steele anyway?”

“I don’t know.” Balto activated his comlink and adjust the frequency a little bit. “Sylvie, where is Steele?”

“Well, he seems to be cooked a little bit after taking down the Interdictor.” Sylvie said, “He is on his way back, but there’s no response from him.”

Bumper sensed something really bad about the situation. He run toward the Long Howl and said, “Sir! Please come with me!”

“What’s wrong?” Balto asked as he followed Bumper to the YT-2000.

Bumper didn’t answer and rushed into the cockpit and turned on the engine of the ship.

“What are you doing?” Emkay, the only one who still on the YT-2000, popped up from the corridor.

“Trust me, please.” Bumper said as he lift the ship and steer it out of the hangar. Bumper turned to Balto and Emkay, “I think Steele is going to crash landing if we don’t stop him.”

“Ok, I trust you.” Balto took the copilot seat as Bumper turned the recharge rate of the tractor beam to the max and turned off the front cannon and shield energy.

A moment later, Balto instructed Bumper to turn smoothly to the rear of Steele’s V-45. They confirmed that Steele was unconscious. Balto tried to report the situation back to Nenana, but the comlink was totally fried that it requires exterior repair that only can be done by a R-2 unit. Now Bumper really hoped that he has a R-2 utility droid.

“Darn! Now we have to do it by ourselves now.” Balto cursed. “Why don’t we disable Steele’s V-45 by ion cannons?”

“Negative, sir. The cannons were fried and they need exterior repair.” Bumper activated the tractor beam and acquired a lock on Steele.

Bumper reduced the speed gradually and started dragging Steele down. Now he needed to reduce Steele’s speed from 108 MGLT to 50 MGLT or lower so Steele won’t crash when the tractor beam from Nenana pulled Steele back to the hangar. Everything was working fine except for the beam battery was being drained faster than the energy recharged. Emkay noticed that and tried to link the quad laser canon energy (which is fed by an independent energy generator) to the beam battery. Zap! Emkay was shocked when he tried to redirect the energy current and the strong current shut him down. Bumper heard the noise and rushed to the scene while Balto took control of the ship and kept dragging Steele. Bumper knew that he was the only one onboard who knew how to do the risky task. He hesitated a little, then he grabbed the wire and connected them to a pair of ports. A series of sparks flied around the port and threw Bumper back on the wall. Balto heard the noise but he couldn’t check Bumper’s condition because he had to keep the ship and Steele on the right course. Balto’s concern ceased as he heard Bumper’s heavy steps.

Balto sniffed and smiled “Hum… I smell barbecue.”

Bumper extended a finger and touched Balto’s fur. A small current shocked Balto and caused Balto’s fur go skyward.

“Hey! Quit it, we still have work to do!” Balto ordered.

The extra power from the independent cannon energy generator ensured the task of slowing Steele down. Steele’s speed reached to 45 MGLT when the V-45 entered the hangar. When the tractor beam from Nenana caught Steele’s V-45, Bumper forgot to turn off his tractor beam and caused the V-45 tear into pieces by two pulling forces. The rear part of the V-45 blew up and threw the cockpit away. Luckily, the cockpit didn’t take too much damage and the medics were able to drag Steele away for medication.

Bumper and Balto walked out from the landed YT-2000 and received congratulations from everyone. When most pilots and maintenance crews were concentrating on Balto, Bumper sneaked away from the crowd and spotted Rina.

“Rina, we need to talk, now.” Bumper grabbed Rina’s arm and brought her to a storage room in the corner of the hangar.

“I just want to say that I love you and I hope you will go out with me.” Bumper confessed his love to Rina.

Rina didn’t say anything. She just stared at Bumper then hugged him in a sudden. Rina moved her head toward to Bumper’s and the space between them closed to a mere centimeter. Rina looked at Bumper and smiled, her tongue flicked out and caught Bumper on his drooling (sweating) tongue. Bumper laughed nervously. Rina chuckled, and then press her mouth to Bumper’s in a passionate canine kiss.

Bumper was trembling after he felt Rina’s furry lip against his lip. Rina felt the trembling and patted Bumper gently. Bumper stopped trembling then started enjoying the best moment of his life. Rina’s lips were soft and furry, and felt good against his own. All his feelings and emotions toward to the girl he kissed, were bottled up inside him for many years, but now they were all released in the few seconds.

The members of Wolf Squadron found out that Bumper and Rina were missing. They spotted the kissing couple in the large storage room. Balto, Kaltag, Star, Nikki were looking at the romantic scene in silence. Jenna, Dixie and Tricksy were giggling and chatting quietly after they see the kissing between Bumper and Rina.

Bumper separated his lips from Rina’s and turned to the peeking canines and said, "I think you're the most beautiful person I've ever met, Rina... right guys?"

Balto, Jenna, Tricksy, Kaltag, Star, Nikki and Dixie all stumbled and fell to the floor, coming into the light. They all smiled stupidly for being caught.

Epilogue

Inside the Canis Navy Garrison on the capital of planet Canis. Steele was being court marshal for his deed recently.

“Although your act caused the death of the crew of the Little Fang patrol group, you brought us the most vital information for us and reserved many Canine lives.” Commodore Kemo said. “In order to reward your valiant service, Commander Steele, you are reinstated as a member of Royal Canis Navy.” “Case dismissed.”

“Flight Cadet Bumper, for your effort during the battle against the Imperial and heroic act saving a fellow Canine.” Doc looked at Bumper and said, “You are going to be promoted as Flight officer junior grade and awarded a Medal of Valor.” “The ceremony will be held at 1100 hours. Dismiss.”

In the aisle of the garrison, Balto led the pilots of Wolf Squadron marched through the hallway. “Your left, right, left, right, left…” Steele, the second in the row was calling cadence. As the pilots exited from the hallway and marched to the front of the platform, Steele ordered “Pilots, halt!” “Heads right!” “Pilots, salute!” The pilots of Wolf Squadron saluted to the superior officers. “Go ahead, cadet” Balto whispered. Bumper walked several steps forward. Vice Admiral Doc walked toward Bumper and lifted a small box in front of Bumper. V-Admiral Doc opened the box and grabbed the medallion (Medal of Valor). Bumper bowed and the admiral placed the medallion around his neck. After being awarded, Bumper saluted, then Doc walked back to the platform and Commodore Kemo walked toward to Bumper. First, Kemo drew a knife and cut off the cadet tag carefully, then he lifted a box and opened it. Inside the box was a white/blue shoulder tag with a steel button on it. This means Bumper had been promoted to flight officer junior grade. After Bumper received the new tag, assembled soldiers and pilots applauded. Bumper saluted again then retreated back to his line along his fellow pilots.

“Dismiss!” Doc announced and the Canines cheered for their second victory against the invasion of the Empire.

Despite of being awarded and promoted, Bumper seemed to be a little regretful. The regret was about his lover missed his moment of triumph, but soon the regret was going to vanquished because his eyes caught someone. A collie who was in the uniform of RCN run toward Bumper. It was Rina. It was obvious that she joined the Royal Canis Navy as well and that meant this couple wouldn’t be separated for their jobs.

Bumper rushed toward Rina and hugged her, then he lifted his girlfriend and yelled, “Yes! Yes!”

“Easy, big guy. Easy.” Rina smiled and stared at Bumper’s eyes. Bumper stared at her eyes as well and they both struck by an urge. They hugged each other and kissed immediately.

When Kaltag saw Bumper and Rina together, he started thinking about Tricksy. Suddenly, a pair of big paws covered his eyes and he felt his lips were attached with another pair of furry lips. “Tricksy.” Kaltag thought with a smile. When his eyes were uncovered, he saw Tricksy in RCN uniform just right in front of him and holding his paws. They hugged each other after the kiss.

Balto and Jenna were glad to see what happened in their sights. Kaltag and Tricksy, Bumper and Rina, two unique yet perfect pairs got together and enjoyed their loves.

THE END

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