Fiction:Niyra's Training

This page covers the training of the first Vanara Ultra Commando Niyra Drago Yeager, with happened during the first year of the Great Mirusian Conflicts.

Getting Acquainted
Hydarax led Niyra down a hall humming some sort of tune, before Niyra interrupted him.


 * Niyra - So, where in Ava's name are we going?
 * Hydarax - Armory, we need to see what sort of weapons you're best with.
 * Niyra - Oh, but I already know that.
 * Hydarax - Do you now?
 * Niyra - Please, I've been training to fight since I could hold a knife.
 * Hydarax - Alright then, let's see what you've got.

Niyra began pulling back a large amount of flaps and pockets on the oversized Vanara military uniform she was wearing, only to reveal various knives and a collection of thro-away pistols. She than pulled the sleeves up to reveal two bulky bracelet-like objects one on each arm which she activated, causing glowing purple energy blades to come fourth.


 * Hydarax - And those are?
 * Niyra - AIC Beam Sabers.
 * Hydarax - AIC?
 * Niyra - Active Inertia Canceler, anything that hits these blades would have its inertia canceled and stop working instantly.
 * Hydarax - Quite uselful. Though it seems you left a pocket.
 * Niyra - Ohhh, well ummm, that's...
 * Hydarax - Let me see.

Niyra opened it and brought out a paper-thin, almost translucent knife with Avine written across it.


 * Hydarax - What does this say?
 * Niyra - It says what ever you do, do not cut yourself with this, even the smallest scratch will kill.
 * Hydarax - In that case, I think I better confiscate this for the time being.
 * Niyra - Fine, I suppose its probability for the best.
 * Hydarax - Good, now lets continue with this "tour".
 * Niyra - Do we have to?
 * Hydarax - I would rather not, but its "important" you get "acquainted" with this place.

They continued on, where several large rooms could be seen.


 * Hydarax - To your left, you will see the education rooms, where you will learn about the history of Zaraturai, my order, and the Koatria you serve with. In the rooms to your right, in order, you will see training for blasters, pulsers, sniper and assault rifles, carbines, explosivse, blades and other melee weapons, and outside, is where we train you on use of your element and sparing matches.

He then directed them towards another room, to the left, and, after rounding several corridors, came to massive, luminescent room, filled with computers and other hardware. Inside, where several Koatria monitoring the system.


 * Hydarax - And this is the Athenaeum, it houses information on every Koatria, from first to last, and, sometimes, even their bodies if they have passed on. And this is our first stop, before you are sent off to the Cadet Corps. Be aware, that all other forts here are more or less the same. You know one, you know them all. Now, may I have your wrist.
 * Niyra - What for?
 * Hydarax - For a DNA sample, it's required. *Pulls out a syringe* This may hurt just a bit.
 * Niyra - Fine.

Hydarax took the sample, and called a Koatria of Psionics forth. The Commando carefully put the sample in storage device, and went off into the catacombs of the Athenaeum.
 * Hydarax - Now, time to visit the Cadet Corps.

With the press of a button on his wrist, a vortex surrounded them, and they teleported off.

They reappeared in the training grounds of a much smaller fort, where their where all sorts of young Ultra Commandos, lounging about and talking. Hydarax gave Niyra a new device.


 * Hydarax - This will be your guide to mess hall and your sleeping quarters. You are designated to regiment Delta, they have the orange head bands.

He pointed towards the mixed group of Ugandalorians and others, as Niyra walked towards them. Just as she was about to join with them, Hydarax stomped his foot.


 * Hydarax - All right you worms, get in order!

All the groups lined up in a straight, perfect lines, with one of the older Delta members indicating where Niyra would go.


 * Hydarax - So, you all seem to think you have what it takes to be an Ultra Commando? That you can fight the darkness the threatens your empire, and win? Well, you can only win, if you make it out of here!

Niyra flinched at every word, as did most of the other members.


 * Hydarax - I hate clichés, but you look around, and most of your brothers and sisters here will be leaving. Most of you won't even be around after the first cut.

Hydarax began walking up to each member, glaring at them, and growling something at them in a low voice. However, he seemed to pass over some of the other members.

A male cadet to Niyra's left spoke.


 * ??? - Those are the inhabitants of feral worlds.
 * Niyra - What do you mean?
 * ??? - They live on worlds like Franix Prime or Truxn, worlds where most kids don't live to see their teens. And those that do, are tough.
 * Niyra - How do you know?
 * ??? - I'm the son of a scholar, I've read about this stuff. The name's Makoro.

Hydarax's face snapped around, eyes ablaze with fury.


 * Hydarax - Want are you speaking about, Cadets?
 * Makoro - Colonies of the Alliance sir! And their conditions!
 * Hydarax - Excellent answer, Cadet! Continue doing so, as you take a lap around the entire citadel, both of you.

The 2 ran off, as Hydarax continued probing cadets for weakness.


 * Niyra - What was that all about?
 * Makoro - He likes people *huff* who answer directly. So I've heard.
 * Niyra - How did you end up here?
 * Makoro - I, don't really know. I've been studying to be a scholar like my father since I could read. Translator and diplomat and all that. But, some secrete agent guys came to our home at Sector Ko, and told my parents the deal with me being a Koatria. Next I know, I'm here.
 * Niyra - Ah.

The 2 ran on in silence, as Hydarax's scratchy voice echoed across the training grounds.

As they came back around, and rejoined the group, they saw Hydarax had locked onto a Ugandalorian, a sea-blue colored girl, who was snacking on a piece of food. Hydarax looked ready to explode. He marched slowly to her position, each step taking with a lumbering step, his breathing deep and barely controlled. When he spoke, he snapped out each syllable, like he was biting into each word before he said it.


 * Hydarax - Cadet, what are you doing.
 * Cadet - I saw this piece of bread sir, and it looked lonely, so I decided to give it a place to stay in my stomach.
 * Hydarax - You do know where you are at right?
 * Cadet - Yes...sir?
 * Hydarax - You are in one of 100 training academies across the Mirus, established by your ancestors, to train Ultra Commandos.
 * Cadet - Yes...
 * Hydarax - And you have the guts to eat on these scared training grounds, where blood and sweat has been spilled?!
 * Cadet - I...Uh...
 * Hydarax - Give me that! *Snatches the bread* Since your so hungry, you can snack on dirt! Give me push ups until the sun drops. Maybe then you can get close to your ancestors, and their blood and tears they shed to become legends.

He snapped around as she began, glaring at everyone, his eyes darting back and forth, and his teeth clicking like an insect's mandibles. When he spoke next, he was calm and relaxed again.


 * Hydarax - When you are on the training grounds, remember not to eat, it is disrespectful to your ancestral Koatria. You are dismissed to your Regimental barracks until the lunch bell sounds. Someone stay behind, and make sure this little Di'bral doesn't get eaten by a Mourka Tiger. Dismissed!

As Niyra followed her group to Delta Barracks, Hydarax lumbered by.


 * Hydarax - So, enjoying your first day, cadet?

Hydarax chuckled slightly, as he walked away, humming the same lullaby to himself as he made his way to the central fortress.

It was indeed after sunset when the Ugandal that had been given the demeaning nickname Bread Girl returned to the jeering and sneering of the rest of Regiment Delta.


 * Other Cadet 1 - How did the mud taste Bread Girl.
 * Other Cadet 2 - Yeah maybe we should rename you Dirt Girl instead of Bread Girl.
 * Other Cadet 3 - Yeah, what do you want to bet your element is something worthless like soil.
 * Niyra - Oh knock it off, she already had to do push ups till the sun went down, I think thats punishment enough.

The others grumbled at this before returning to their bunks.


 * Ughandalorain - Hey thanks for that.
 * Niyra - Sure thing.
 * Ughandalorian - My name is Halha, what's yours?
 * Niyra - Niyra Drago Yeager.
 * Halha - Well, thanks anyway.
 * Niyra - No problem.

After she had gone off to her own bunk Makoro looked down at her from the bunk above hers.


 * Makoro - That was very brave of you.
 * Niyra - How so?
 * Makoro - Those cadets were from the Feral Worlds I told you about, nobody ever stands up to them.
 * Niyra - Well, my dad always said its not where you come from, its where you are and were your going that matters. That, and I can't stand assholes.
 * Makoro - Hmmm.

And with that he turned in and dozed off. Niyra pulled out her personal music player and put in the head phones before turning it on to help her relaxe, but even with the music it would be awhile before she got even a wink of sleep.

The next, moring, when the first sunrays started pouring though, the Delta Team was still fast asleep, so nobody did notice a strange-looking creature come in. He had a trunk-like body, his eyes and enormous mouth located on his chest, and ears finetuned to hear the sublest of sounds. Upon discovering the Cadets were stiil sleeping, the being sighed, then took an deep breath and shouted.


 * ??? - HEY! ALL OF YOU! WAKE UP!

While most of the cadets knew the drill by now, Niyra had her headphones on as such did not hear the whake-up call. Noticing Niyra is still asleep, the being let out an frustrated roar, one that let the building shook slightly and caused many of the more sensitive cadets to hold their ears.


 * ??? - YOU! RISE AND SHINE!

Finally, Nyra woke up, opening her eyes to stare right into the eyes of the being.


 * ??? - Hello there, newbie. Up, eh? Good. Now, exuse me but I've go a thing to make clear...ahem...

The being cleared his throat before speaking with deafening force again.


 * ??? - YOU ALL KNOW THAT HYDARAX HATES LATECOMERS! SO...GET IN GEAR!

With that, the being left (or rather stormed out) the room, leaving most of the Cadets dazed.


 * Niyra - Ugh...my ears...Whi is that bloke anyways?
 * Makoro - Him? That was Loudrak. He's from the Quadrants, appearentely, and a veteran Koatria of Sonics, though all his kind have ridiculousely loud voices. Hydarax uses him to get us out of bed, with he apperenntely enjoys, and to make anouncements. Funny guy, and likes to have a good laugh, but he really has moring temper. We better get going before he returns to find us here...I heard that once happened, and he screamed so loud that the barrack went down. Of course, since he himself told that, there's no way to verify it...Loudrak likes to exagerate.

Hearing a bell ringing, the Delta Group left for the mess hall. There, they could see Hydarax stitting visibly apart from the Koatria, alongside some veterans. Loudrak, however, could be seen stitting right next to a group of Cadets, chatting loudly with them, much to the other veteran's frustration. As Makoro looked for a place to sit, Halha took them to a taple neer the corner, were 2 beings sat, both male. One was a Mantis-like creature that didn't seem interesting in eating, and instead just sat, his dual twin-bladed katanas at his side, metitatng. The other one, a large, nearly completely human-like being, had just finished his meal. His smiled widely when he saw Halha approaching.


 * Helha - Hi Ared! Hi, G-Skter!

While the first one, the Scizok known as G-Sker, only nodded lightly, the second one, Ahred Gki, waved happily. On closer sight, it became clear that he, while looking human in all aspects, had thicker, dark brown skin, and what looked like dried mud on his hands, feet, and limbs. He was a Mudwort, a race of merchant-crafters, reowned for their clay sculptores and their pottery skills.


 * Makoro - Mudwort, huh? Hadn't your kind some strange quirck when it came to your elemental powers?
 * Ahred - Correct. The males of our kind, like me, can only get the Elemental Control of Earth, while our females, for the mayority, can only get that of water. All we can summon is the borderline of water and earth, however: Mud. The only difference between the summoned substance of males and females is the fluidity. As you can expect, our is more solid, like real sticky mud, while that of our females is more like muddy water, or watery mud, whatever you like.
 * G-Sker - Undiscovered this...so much to learn...
 * Niyra - Ok, so you control mud..erm...eath, but what does you friend here control?
 * Ahred - Can't you see it by his silvery skin? He controls Magnetism.
 * Makaro - I thought most of the Magnetism controllers were eredicated by the Brotherhood of Darklings and the Grox for the thread they were to them?
 * G-Sker - Indeed. It's...rare for such thing to happen.
 * Niyra - So what are you guys? I mean, what are your specialities?
 * Ahred - I'm a crafer, what did you expect. But to answer your question, I'm used for close ranged support. I mean, what's batter than pumping your foes full of bullets when up close? You technically can't miss.
 * G-Sker - Me? I hone myself in becoming a network slicer, and a whildwind of disrupting strikes in battle.
 * Ahred - yeah, my mate here is even known as the "blade storm" for his figthing style.
 * G-Sker - It involves using my dual-katanes snip around me at blinding speed using my magnetism powers, while I can consentrate of more usefull things.
 * Makoro - Smart. I'm impressed. Going for team leader?
 * G-Sker - I have no such aspirations. My race is taught to be humble, and humble I will stay, no matter my destiny or skill.

At this point, Loudrak climbed upon a stage.


 * Loudrak - SILENCE, EVERYONE! Erm...sorry. SO MAY I GET YOUR ATTENTION, PLEASE!? Ack...eum...SORRY IF THAT DID HURT YOUR- BLAST IT!
 * Hydarax - I'll take over from here, Loudrak. Everybody exept the rookies know I'm going to make my moring speech and drill the sacred rules of the Koatria into them.

Hydarax cleared his throat, as all the rookies stared up at him.


 * Hydarax - Alright, you maggots, eat up, and prepare yourselves for a work out. This is your first day of action, and I expect all of you cadets to show some courage and, most of all, respect. I do not train privateers and murders. I train real soldiers, and you will act like it. I have planned some "Fun" exercises that should give us an idea of your skills. Enjoy the meat grinder, cadets.


 * Loudrak - And remember, SMILES GO FOR MILES! GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Getting Started
After breakfast, the Cadets were sent to the track to go run laps, the one who came in last being told that they would have to clean up after dinner, this wasn't much of a problem for Niyra as Vanara were one of the fastest races in the entire alliance, and even at a medium pace out stripped most of her regiment mates. After that came push ups, the sit ups, then various other exercises. By the time they were done, it was lunch time.


 * Hydarax - Alright. You runts go wash up, have lunch, and get back out here, I've got something special planned.

After that he walked off, singing the same lullaby as always. As the Cadets hurried over to the mess hall, many of them carried on conversations on what the "something special" was.


 * Niyra - So what do think he's got planned for us?
 * Ahred - No idea, but some of the rumors I've been hearing sound pretty terrible.
 * Halha - Yeah, I heard he was going to have us fight a Mourka Tiger.
 * Makoro - It would be highly illogical to make cadets fight such a powerful beast.
 * G-Sker - Even with the greatest of skills, we would get butchered.
 * Halha - Then, what do you think it will be?
 * Niyra - No clue, I'll just have to find out when we get there.

They finished the rest of their lunch in silence.

After lunch, the cadets were directed to a large arena. The entire space was filled with a huge maze, with Hydarax standing at the entrance. Loudrak stood next to him, grinning.


 * Hydarax - Alright. Listen up, your goal is to complete this maze and obtain the flag at the end. Pretty simple, huh? So, any questions?
 * Cadet - Are there any monsters or traps in there?
 * Hydarax - No, any more?
 * Other Cadet - Are we in teams or alone?
 * Hydarax - That's up to you. Now, I suggest you'd get ready.

As the cadets gather into teams or stood alone, Makoro pointed at them all.


 * Makoro - Team?
 * Halha - Yeah, sounds good.
 * Ahred - Ditto.

G-Sker said nothing, but nodded to make clear he was in for the idea.


 * Niyra - Alright. Team it is, then.

Loudrak yelled "GO!' and they all set off. At first, they were clomped together with all the others, but quickly the crowd began to thin, until eventually, they were alone. When the were so, Niyra took out two knives and began to use them to climb the wall.


 * Makoro - What are you doing?
 * Niyra - Getting an advantage.
 * Ahred - Looks more like you're cheating to me.
 * Niyra - Hydarax said "complete the maze", he didn't say how. That's called a loop hole.
 * G-Sker - In combat or otherwise, advantages must be used if they present themselves, that are the teachings of my race.
 * Makoro - Fair point.
 * Halha - But...what if we get caught?
 * Niyra - Then I'll take all the blame.
 * Makoro - Fair enough.

And so, the Cadets made their way along the top of the maze, one or two would loose their balance on occasion, but the others were always there to help them out. Until eventually they came to the end. Jumping down they saw the flag at the end.


 * Niyra - Watch my back, I'm going to get the flag.
 * G-Sker - Count on me.

Niyra crept over to the flag and grabbed it.

They waited until the other cadet returned from the maze and Hydarax apperad.
 * Ahred - And? Got it?
 * Niyra - Of course.
 * Halha - Awesome!


 * Hydarax - Well, well...It looks like we have our winners.
 * Loudrak - Right! So...ahem...AND THE WINNERS ARE...
 * ??? - Wait a second! They cheated! I saw them walking along the top of the maze.
 * Ahred - Blast.
 * Hydarax - What?!

As the group turned around, they saw another group walking towards them.

The leader, a Ugandalorian of air, marched straight up to them. Tall, fierce, and heavily scared, he, despite his age, sported a number of tattoos, identifying him as a high ranking member of Clan Nitrocon, the same as the famous Ugandalore. However, this one was from Truxn. He glared down at each of them, with Makoro looking ready to run. However, surprisingly, it was Halha that stood up to him.


 * Halha - Now, Hydarax did not say "how" to complete the maze, only to get it done. Now I'm sure if we just talk about this...
 * Cadet - Shut your mouth, Bread Girl. If you where from Truxn, you'd be Catapult Scorpion fodder.
 * ??? - And if you where under my command, you'd be in an even worse situation.

Everyone turned to see a red and gold skinned Ugandalorian, marching towards him. Despite being shorter, he stood with a clear aura of command, and had a series of nasty scars across his face and arms, despite his relative youth.


 * Cadet - Who do you think you are?
 * ??? - I am Captain Jallas of the Blood Bearers, the Elite guard of your ruler. Now, unless you wanna be alive long enough, I suggest you back up and let Hydarax handle this, Jungle Thumper.

There was no greater insult to a Truxnian then to be called "Jungle Thumper". However, despite looking ready to kill, he backed away. Jallas went to Niyra and her group, and placed a reassuring hand on Halha's shoulder.


 * Jallas - Now, I remember from my training as a Bloodbearer then it does not matter how you win, just that you win. Is that true, Commander Hydarax?
 * Hydarax - Yes it is, cadet. I am proud of your quick thinking Niyra, and company. You see, in Black Ops, you will face some of the deadliest, most dangerous, bloodthirsty creatures this universe can throw at you, and then some. You can't play fair. You have to use everything at your disposal to win.
 * Loudrak - So...NIYRA AND HER TEAM DO INDEED WIN THE ROUND!

The team cheered, as Niyra looked at Jallas.


 * Niyra - Why are you so eager to defend us?
 * Jallas - I was impressed by your quick-thinking. You'd make good Ultra Commandos, or Blood bearers even.
 * Hydarax - Since the rest of you maggots could not win, you can all enjoy the feeling of running laps until your next lesson is called. Have a nice time!

Jallas shrugged, and with a chuckle, went off to join his team, as Niyra and her group sat down under a cool tree to relax.

Seeds of Rivalry
The training for the day was over and Niyra was looking for her new friends while regiment Delta was given time for some recreation. She was also interested in talking to that Jallas guy who had stuck up for her and her friends. Eventually, she spied Makoro and began to walk over to him when she realized that something was up. One cadet, who had accused them of cheating; and Niyra leared name was Skraken, was towering over her hapless friend while he yelled at him.


 * Skraken - You think your so clever Brain Boy, why you think your so clever just because you cheated, well you may have gotten away with it with Hydarax, but not with me.

Seeing this Niyra marched over and stood before them.


 * Niyra - Hey; why don't you pick on someone your own sized, and anyway waking along the wall was my idea so if you want someone to blame, blame me.

Skraken towered over Niyra trying to intimidate her, but Niyra stood her ground and did not back down.


 * Skraken - I'd hardly call this picking on someone my own size, tiny.
 * Niyra - Your just mad cause you didn't think of it your self.
 * Skraken - Why you little skank...

There was a loud meaty sounding smack and every one looked over to see that Niyra had struck Skraken across the face hard. Niyra looked to see Jallas and Halha running over.


 * Skraken - Alright Freak Eyes, you're going down tomorow, arena B-17. I challenge you to a fight.
 * Niyra - Oh, I'll be there alright.
 * Hydarax - Alright, what the hell is going on here?
 * Skraken - Niyra hit me sir.
 * Halha - Yeah; after you called her a skank.
 * Jallas - And you were bullying Makoro.
 * Hydarax - *In a dangerously soft voice* Is this true?
 * Skraken - *Glares at the ground* Yes sir.
 * Hydarax - Now listen up every one, teasing is part of life and you can all expect a good ribbing or two while here, but I will not tolerate out right abuse of your peers, and as Skraken's punishment he will be cleaning these barracks, the mess hall, and any where else I can think of all day tomorrow, is that understood Skraken?
 * Skraken - Yes sir.

As he stormed if he shouted over his shoulder.


 * Skraken - You're still going down tomorrow Freak Eyes.

Halha turned to Hydarax.


 * Halha - Can he do that, challenge Niyra to a fight?
 * Hydarax - Yes he can, but he can only challenge her, its up Niyra if she accepts or not.

He look at Niyra who had her jaw Set in a hard line.


 * Niyra - I will do it, I will fight him.
 * Makoro and Halha - What!
 * Hydarax - Think carefully.
 * Niyra - No, he needs to be knocked down a peg, so I'll fight him.

He waked away and Makoro, Halha, and Jallas turned to Niyra.


 * Makoro - Are you crazy, he will cream you.
 * Halha - Yeah he has way experience than you, you have like nothing.
 * Niyra - That's where your wrong, like I told Hydarax on the day I came here I've been trained to fight since I could hold a knife, and in any case I'm counting on his over confidence to get the best of him.
 * Jallas - Well I wish you luck.
 * Niyra - *Snorts* Thanks I'm going to need it.

Some Friendly Advice
Later that day, Niyra was walking by the mess hall and felt an intense warmth coming from the door. Her curiosity got the best of her and she opened the double doors. There were plenty of cadets eating, as was a part of their team schedules. She noticed one cadet was sitting alone. As Niyra approached him, she noticed he was a Lavatuft. Niyra had only seen a few before but never gotten this close to one. He took a large bite out of a raw piece of meat, crunching the bone as well. He looked over, and noticed Niyra staring at him.


 * Blaize - You need somethin'?
 * Niyra - Uh...no it's just that I've never actually seen a Lavatuft up close before.
 * Blaize - Really now? I'm not surprised. Most of the cadets here would die on my Homeworld. I'd give 'em 8 minutes tops.
 * Niyra - Are you eating raw meat?
 * Blaize - Yeah. You don't?
 * Niyra - Not really, as a matter of fact I don't eat a lot of meat.
 * Blaze - What do you eat, then?
 * Niyra - Mostly Potatoes.

Blaize shakes his head for a minute, then takes another bite. Skraken enters the hall, seeing Niyra. He makes his way over to her just to make a point. He caught her off guard and shoved her. Niyra staggered for a bit and fell to the ground.


 * Skraken - That's just a taste of what's in store for you tomorrow you little wench! "Pick on someone my own size" eh? Well news flash: I'm the biggest guy around here, so learn your place.

Suddenly, Blaize stood up, finished with his meal. As he attempted to throw his tray away, he bumped into Skraken, slightly singeing his skin. Skraken jumped in shock as the burn stung him. He moved his attention to Blaize, and punched him in the back. Blaize simply turned around, unfazed by the blow.


 * Blaize - You got a problem with me pal?,
 * Skraken - You bumped into me, chump. Not to mention you interrupted my message to this runt here.

Blaize looked back at Niyra who was just standing up, dusting herself off. He looked back and glared at Skraken.


 * Blaize - Well. If I heard correct, the girl told you to "pick on someone your own size" ,right?
 * Skraken - Yeah, so what?

Blaize took a step closer. He was looking Skraken dead in the eye. The two stared at each other for a moment. Skraken then realized that Blaise was around his height, and was not afraid of him.


 * Blaize - You're move punk. If you wanna throw down, let's throw down. But I assure you I'll put up one hell of a fight.
 * Skraken - You aren't worth my time. I'm outta here. Niyra! Don't be late for our match tomorrow.

Skraken gave one last glance at the two before walking out of the mess hall. Everyone in the hall had seen Blaize's standoff. He looked back at Niyra and nodded to her before sitting back down at his table. She joined him.


 * Niyra - Wow. That was impressive. I had to slap that guy to make him walk off. All you did was look him in the eye. How'd you do that?


 * Blaize - I'm a Lavatuft. It's sort of instinct to assert our dominance. He simply was a beta male trying to step to an alpha. Also...your name is Niyra right?


 * Niyra - Yeah. I guess I should have introduced myself earlier.
 * Blaise - Don't worry about it. I heard your name through some gossip earlier. You're gonna fight that guy tomorrow at the arena?
 * Niyra - I sure am. I'm not afraid of him either. I've been fighting ever since I could hold a knife.
 * Blaize - HAHAHA! I like you chick! That's what I like to hear! Tell you what, I'll tell you a way to beat this guy.
 * Niyra - anything to make the job easier.
 * Blaize - Alright! Use his size against him. Not only is he a bigger target, he's also got a higher center of gravity than you. You can use that to topple him over quite easily.
 * Nirya - Huh, that is useful. Thanks...um...
 * Blaize - The name's Blaize (Blaise/Blaze) Moltran. I'll be watching that fight of yours. Kick his ass for me will ya?
 * Nirya - [laughs] You got it!

Blaize chuckles and stands up, walking slowly out of the mess hall. He grabs a few chunks of meat on his way out, mainly to eat as a midnight snack. Niyra was a little surprised with that, as Hydarax would flip out if he found food in the barracks. But she simply shook her head, she had more important things to think about.

The Fight

 * Makoro - I still can't believe your going to do this.
 * Halha - Yeah, is it to late to talk you out?
 * Niyra - Yes it is to late and nothing you can say will change my mind.
 * Ahred - Well I wish you luck.
 * G-Sker - I do to, but I would like to point out that you have no armor only that over sized military uniform of yours.
 * Niyra - That's were your wrong.

Niyra switched a switch on one of the cuffs and the whole thing collapsed into a skin tight power suit, she then activated her AIC beam sabers.


 * Niyra - Now I'm ready.
 * Jallas - Well then I suppose there's no stopping you.
 * Niyra - Notta.
 * Blaize - Use what I told ya and go kick that overgrown punk's ass!
 * Niyra - You got it!

She walked out into the arena and on the other side stood Skraken armed with a broad sword and repeating blaster.


 * Skraken - This is going to be a joy.
 * Niyra - Yeah that's how I feel, like Day of Rebirth with more violence.

Skraken fired his blast, but Niyra threw up her beam sabers the AIC canceling out the inertia causing the projectiles to drop to the ground. Skraken abandoned that option and charged Niyra with his sword, Niyra rolled out of the way opening up the flaps on the back of her suit that concealed her throw-away pistols, sending them out like cape. She grabbed two pistols a fired before tossing them before grabbing two more and firing. The bullets found their mark causing Skraken significant pain, unable to get at her with his sword he opened fire with his blaster and this time they hit. Niyra flew back from the impact, Skraken charged her with his sword again and Niyra just managed to get the beam sabers up in time to block his attack. She manged to struggle to her feet before kicking his legs out from under him.


 * Blaize - Good she took my advice and used his size against him.

Skraken just manged to roll out of the way as Niyra stabbed downward with her beam sabers leaving a sizable hole in the ground. Skraken stood and tried to bring his sword down on her head, Niyra jumped back and fire two more throw-away pistols, one hitting Skraken's hand causing him to drop his blaster the other grassing his face drawing blood. Skraken swung his sword his sword and Niyra blocked it, they continued like this for a good four minutes. Niyra knew that she needed to end this, perhaps if she manged to summon another radiation blast she could be him. Using several flips and other such maneuvers she manged to put enough distance between her and Skraken and began to concentrate. Skraken hefted his sword and charged her, as he got close he saw her yellow eye flash and a blast of energy shot from Niyra's hand aimed toward the ground propelling her high into the air where she came down, Skraken just managing to bring his sword up in time to stop Niyra's beam sabers from striking his head, but he could not stop her legs from slamming him in the stomach sending them both to the ground. Niyra pinned Skraken pointing a throw away pistol at his head.


 * Niyra - Give up.
 * Skraken - Your forgetting something.
 * Niyra - Huh?
 * Skraken - I control an element to.

A blast of wind threw Niyra off Skraken and he pressed his sword to her throat.


 * Skraken - Now you give up.
 * Niyra - Never!

To Skraken's shock she grabbed the blade and began to try and push it away from her throat, a bluish grey liquid stained the blade, it took Skraken some time to realize that it was Niyra's blood.


 * Skraken - Stop! Stop this now! Your hurting yourself!
 * Niyra - Not a chance.

She began to push harder causing more blood to flow and Skraken began to panic.


 * Skraken - Just stop! What will it take you to stop!
 * Niyra - Leave my friends alone and stop treating others like crap because they don't have the same upbringing you do.
 * Skraken - Fine, just stop!
 * Niyra - Alright then.

She let go of the bladed and passed out. The rest passed as a blur for Skraken, he remembered shouting and something about getting Niyra to the infirmary, but he just stood there even after every one was long gone he just stood there.

Tyris Gang
The morning son arrived and Loudrak was yelling again. Niyra lugged herself out of bed. She looked down at her hands, that were bandaged up of course, but decided to go on with her day anyways. Morning exercises started. Push-ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks. Niyra grew bored of the work outs, but always looked forward to the jogging. She was easily faster than most of the other cadets, and often boasted about her speed.

The one mile run began, Niyra taking the lead after a few short seconds. Her teammates desperately tried to keep up with her but couldn't. Niyra sighed and decided to hang back and let them catch up. As they jogged, she looked back and saw Blaize jogging alongside some of the slower cadets. He looked as if he was actually struggling to keep up with the slowest cadets. She turned her attention back in front of her and continued to jog.

Later on, after the morning exercises, all of the cadets reported to the mess hall to eat breakfast. Niyra and her team were in line, chatting for a moment before receiving their food. On their way though the hall to pick a table, Niyara noticed Blaize sitting alone again.


 * Nirya - Hey guys let's sit over there.


 * G-Sker - Next to that guy?


 * Niyra - Yeah.


 * Makaro - I dunno, he seems kind of...intimidating. You sure he won't try to eat us or something?


 * Helha - What? He's a Lavatuft, they're supposed to look intimidating. Besides those guys aren't normally mean.


 * Niyra - Yeah. He stood up for me two days ago. He's cool.


 * G-Sker - Alright if you say so.

The group walked over to the table and sat down. Blaize looked up and noticed all of them. He squinted as he looked at all of them, but his eyes returned to a more soft expression when he saw Niyra.


 * Blaize - That was a good fight yesterday. That guy'll think twice before picking on someone again.


 * Niyra - Thanks, that tip you gave me sure helped out.


 * Blaize - I saw. Who are these guys?


 * Ahred - We're in the same squad as Niyra. Nice to meet you...


 * Blaize - It's Blaize. Blaize Moltran.


 * Helha - Moltran? By Zaraturai... Guys do you know who this guy is!?


 * G-Sker - Um yeah. He just said his name. So I guess we know who he is now.


 * Helha - No you idiot! This guy is a part of the same family that that guy Lavern!


 * Ahred - Really. Wow I've heard of him. Quite the badass from what I've heard.


 * Niyra - Blaize I didn't realize..


 * Blaize - Knock it off, all of you. Yeah, my grandpa was Lavern. I don't wanna talk about it.


 * Helha - I understand. Sorry.


 * Blaize - It's fine.

the group ate in silence for a moment. The only real noise at their table was the crunching of raw meat Blaize was eating. Niyra looked around for a minute and realized that Blaize had been eating at his table alone ever since day one.


 * Niyra - so Blaize...where is your team? Your squad?


 * Blaize - My team?


 * G-Sker - Yeah...your friends?


 * Blaize - Look, First of all I don't necessarily have a "team". That's for reasons you guys don't need to know. Second, I have what you would call "friends". But I doubt you guys would know them.


 * Niyra - Introduce us then. It'd be nice to get to know another group.


 * Helha - Yeah,Che could trade strategies and everything!


 * Blaize - Fine. C'mon. I'll show you where they eat.

Blaize stood up, taking one last bite out of his meal. He grew away his tray, then motioned for Niyra and her team to follow. They all got up, taking their food with them. They followed Blaize to an alley between the Mess Hall and the Gym. There they saw a few other cadets chatting and eating their lunch. They looked up and saw Blaize. They all waved to him.

Niyra scanned the group. One cadet was a Soldarian female. She was quite muscular, yet quite slender. Her skin was a gold colors with patches of green around her forearms and calves. Her eyes darted as she looked at the group that Blaize had brought into their alley. Another cadet was a female Antroth. She wore her uniform and was neatly groomed. She ate her meal at a moderate pace, though she tore into the meat on her plate with savagery. As she finished, she licked her lips, as if she had not just broken her polite composure. Her exoskeleton was brown and she was slightly taller than Niyra. There was also a male Volver, who was just finishing his meal. He had small antlers, which was normal for young Volver, and had blue skin. As Blaize approached, the Soldarian walked up to him.


 * Dionē - Welcome back Blaize. Who's this?

Dione looked Niyra up and down, then back to Blaize. Blaize rolled his eyes.


 * Blaize - These are a couple of guys I met yesterday. They seem alright. Niyra here fought that Skraken guy yesterday.


 * Dione - Oooh..yes I remember. I saw that fights you did pretty well until you passed out.


 * Niyra - Um..thank you?

The female Antroth looked up at Dione.


 * Nu'Iva - Dione, let her be. There's no harm in letting her join us.


 * Dione - Calm down Iva, I didn't say they couldn't come in.

Iva shook her head, then looked at the group as they walked in and took their seats.


 * Marako - Nice place you got here.

The Volver cadet scratched his chin.


 * Tilaam -Yeah, nobody else was using it, so it's our hangout.


 * Helha - you all are from Tyris Major right?


 * Iva - Yes. It's strange here...there are a lot of males in this academy.


 * Makaro - What do you mean?


 * Iva - Where I come from, only females can use essence. So our academies are female only. I transferred here a week ago.


 * Dione - It's not like it's worth it Iva. It's no fun if all the males in the academy are weaker than you.


 * Blaize - All except one.


 * Dione - Shut up Blaize.


 * Timaal - I'm enjoying the adjustment. I just LOVE it when it rains during our work outs and drills. The muddy water feels great on the skin!


 * G-Sker - Really? I was too cold to notice.


 * Timaal - Cold? Ah, my skin traps heat, so i wouldn't know the difference!


 * Helha - Oh yeah, I've actually trained with a few Volver before. I even stayed on Ascon for a while. The weather at camp reminds me of that?


 * Timaal - Well now. I like a lady who isn't afraid of the rain! You can come by here to hang out anytime!


 * Helha - [laughs] Thanks!


 * Ahrad - Interesting. So what elements do you guys control? And what fighting styles do you use?


 * Dione - I control lightning. It's really a gift. Most Soldarians control earth. I utilize the bone crushing fighting style of the elite Soldarians, Snàh'Díän.


 * Timaal - Well I can control water. Pretty lame I guess. At least I can use my naturally ability to spit poison from my tail. I'm pretty talented I guess since I can actually breathe underwater. I use Cha'Roi, a sword and shield fighting style used by the Volver Knights themselves.


 * Iva - I don't have a particular element. Antroths don't utilize Essence technically. We use Mana, which is similar. I have the ability to amplify or even train the essence reserves of another person. I can create barriers and heal others too. I prefer not to fight up close so I don't have a style.


 * Blaize - As a Lavatuft, I have natural control over fire. But I was gifted with the power to control earth. I don't use a fighting style. I just do what comes naturally.


 * Marako - Wait a minute, aren't there usually five people per team?


 * Dione -Yeah we have five.


 * Niyra - I only see four.


 * Dione - Ugh...Iva.


 * Iva - Alright. Hey Vonnes! Will you come out please. Our guests would like to meet you!

From the depths of the alley, where the sunlight didn't reach, the group saw a pair of glowing red eyes shoot open. They were split pupils, like a reptile. The figure stepped forward, arms folded, into the light. The group saw that he was a male Biskin. Helha had instantly become uneasy, seeing him tower above them as he walked by. Tilaam growled slightly, but let it pass.


 * Vonnes - What do these people want?


 * Iva - They want to know your element and fighting style.


 * Vonnes - It's none of their damn business.


 * Blaize - C'mon, play nice Vonnes.


 * Vonnes - Meant what I said.


 * Niyra - Hey there's no need to be rude.

Vonnes glanced at Niyra and looked at her for a moment.


 * Vonnes - You're that girl who fainted during that match with Skraken.


 * Niyra - yeah what of it?


 * Vonnes - Maybe you should take your own advice next time.


 * Helha - Hey! I didn't see you down there risking your life!


 * Vonnes - My life wouldn't have been at risk. Skraken would have been begging for mercy.


 * Dione - Heh heh, I love it when Vonnes talks like that.


 * Blaize - Shut up Dione.


 * Timaal - Look, Vonnes, you don't have to explain your powers to them. We just wanted then to meet the whole team.


 * Vonnes - Fine. I'm Vonnes Orala'Sim, the first and only Biskin in this academy. Blaize isn't the only one who came alone.


 * Blaize - Well put. Was that harde Vonnes?


 * Vonnes - Whatever. C'mon guys, breakfast is over.


 * Dione - Alright see you guys later. We're team Tyris. Keep that in mind. Maybe we'll help you guys out in the future.


 * Niyra - Will do!

The Tyris team packed their things up and left the alley. Niyra and her team got up too and threw their trays away. All squads reported to their morning activities and training.