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 table 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-Sker!

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.

• Ahred - And? Got it?
• Niyra - Of course.
• Halha - Awesome!

They waited until the other cadet returned from the maze and Hydarax apperad.

• 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 - Nope.
• Blaize - Use what I told ya and go kick that overgrown punk's ass!
• Niyra - You got it!

She walked out into the arena. On the other side stood Skraken, armed with a cutlass and repeating blaster.

• Skraken - This is going to be a joy.
• Niyra - Yeah that's how I feel: Like Day of Rebirth, but then with more violence.

Skraken fired his blaster, 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 and fired, before tossing them away. In a refex she obviousely trained herself in, she grabbed two more and fired. 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, as Skraken charged at her with his sword again. 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.
• G-Sker - Giving advice is my role, normally. Though, yeah, that was a smart move indeed.

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, but Niyra jumped back and fired two more throw-away pistols. One bullet did hit Skraken's hand, causing him to drop his blaster, the other grassing his face, drawing blood. Skraken swung his sword but 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 beat 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. 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 - You're 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 for 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.

The Knife

Hydarax walked into one of the labs, it had been along day that was for sure, but there was something he needed to do. Taking out the strange knife he had confiscated from Niyra when she had first come here, he then took out a piece of of steel before bringing the knife down onto it, the knife sliced through the steel as if it were nothing. Hydarax leaned back in surprise, upon further inspection he saw that the part of the steel that the knife had touched had been melted, he gingerly touched it only to find that it had become ice cold.

• Hydarax - Hmmm strange, though I could swear I've seen this before...

He walk over to a large scanner, placed the knife in and sat back to wait. It took a surprisingly long time before the machine came up with a positive identification.

• Hydarax - No! It can't be! Check again.
• Computer - Identification is 100% positive it can be nothing else.
• Hydarax - By Zaraturai....

Getting Backup

'''Gorzil/Zilla, infirmary scene and anything else you want here''' 

Tyris Gang

The morning soon 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.
• Halha - I dunno, he seems kind of...intimidating. You sure he won't try to eat us or something?
• Ahred - 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.
• makoro - 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.
• Halha - Moltran? By Zaraturai...Guys, do you know who this guy is!?
• Makoro - Um yeah. He just said his name. So I guess we know who he is now.
• Halha - 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.
• Halha - 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?
• Makoro - 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.
• G-Sker - Yeah, we 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 yellow color with patches of light blue 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 sea-blue skin. As Blaize approached, the Soldarian walked up to him.

• Dione - 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.

• Ahred - Nice place you got here.

The Volver cadet scratched his chin.

• Tilaam - Yeah, nobody else was using it, so it's our hangout.
• Makoro - You all are from Tyris Major right?
• Iva - Yes. It's strange here...there are a lot of males in this academy.
• Halha - 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 water feels great on the skin!
• G-Sker - Really? It was too cold to notice.
• Timaal - Cold? Ah, my skin traps heat, so I wouldn't know the difference!
• Halha - 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!
• Halha - [laughs] Thanks!
• G-Sker - 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 plamsa. I utilize the bone-crushing fighting style of the elite Soldarians, Snàh'Díän.
• Timaal - Well, I can control water. Pretty lame I guess, since that's what most Volver get to control. 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 Elemental Energy technically. We use Mana Energy, 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 stone. I don't use a fighting style. I just do what comes naturally.
• Marako - Wait a minute, aren't there usually six people per team?
• Dione - Yeah, but we only have five as of yet.
• Makoro - Five? 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.
• Halha - 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 them 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 so hard, 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.

The Unusual Disappearance of Skraken

It was later that day and Niyra, Halha, Ahred, G-Sker, and Jallas were sitting under a tree on break chatting while they waited for another one of Hydarax's "something special", when they heard a shout.

• ??? - Hey, Niyra!

Niyra stood up to see a green skinned Ugandal running toward them before coming to a stop before them nearly out of breath.

• Niyra - Yes, who are you and what do you want?
• ??? - I'm Kogro, I'm a friend of Skraken.
• Niyra - Your one of his friends?
• Kogro - Yeah sorry he was such a jerk, but that's besides the point.
• Niyra - Okay then what isn't.
• Kogro - He's vanished.
• Niyra - Well have you looked for him?
• Kogro - I looked several places including his favorite spot to go and pout, nothing.
• Niyra - Come with me.

---

Niyra led her friends and Kogro down the halls to an abandoned room consisting of a table, a few chairs, a computer, and shelves filled with books.

• Makoro - I don't know how you found this place or what its for, but I like it.
• Niyra - I found it when I was looking for some peace and quiet and I think it was used for storing outdated stuff, there is and entire closet full of old junk though I wouldn't open it, last time I did I almost got buried alive.

Niyra sat Kogro down at one end of the table while she took the other end with the computer on it, her friends took up seats on either sides. Niyra crossed her arms and leaned back.

• Niyra - Start from the beginning.
• Kogro - Well I hadn't seen Skraken for awhile so I went looking for him, but couldn't find him anywhere even his favorite spot, so I went to youi cause I'd rather not bother the teachers so I came to you.
• Niyra - Okay and where is his hiding place?
• Kogro - Just outside the main academy compound to the east, its this large pile of moss covered rocks you can enter, can't miss it.
• Niyra - *Nods* Jallas I want you to continue asking questions anything that might pertain to this and even stuff the might not, Makoro, Halha help him, leave no stone unturned. G-Sker and Ahred come with me. *Turns to Kogro* And don't you worry S.O.S is on the case.

---

• G-Sker - I hate to nitpick, but we are not going in the direction Kogro told us to go.
• Niyra - I know that, were going to get help from team Tyris.
• Ahred - You mean that team with the sexy Antroth, huba, huba.
• Niyra - Oh, shut up.
• Ahred - Oh, but she's got such a body, don't you wish you had a body like that?
• Niyra - And whats wrong with my body?
• Ahred - Well your not the most well endowed errkkk....

Anything more he was going to say was cut of when Niyra kicked him in the groin with enough force to make a Zarbanian Warrior-Beast sing soprano. G-Sker helped him to his feet when was done rolling around on the ground and squealing and they set off for team Tyris's hide out. When they got to the alley Niyra pocked her head.

• Blaize - Niyra, hello, whats the occasion?
• Niyra - You know...Skraken.
• Blaize - Really? How could I forget him?
• Niyra - Right sorry, anyway he disappeared and one of his friends is paying me to find him.
• Blaize - He's paying you?
• Niyra - Well he doesn't know that were going to discuss price when I'm done playing Sherlock Holmes.
• Blaize - Ha, you'd make a good lawyer and who's Sherlock Holmes?
• Niyra - I don't know whether or not to hit you for that remark and Sherlock Holmes is a fictional human detective.
• Blaize - Hahaha, I would recommend that. Besides, I'm not really into human literature.
• Iva - Did someone say human!?
• Dione - Now's not the time to get all savage on us Iva.
• Niyra - Well never mind, so are you in?
• Blaize - Yeah just let me check with the others, you guys heard that?
• Vonnes - I suppose. I'd be a lot more entertaining than sitting around here.
• Dione - Sounds like fun.
• Timaal - Sure could be interesting. Me and Helha can talk a bit more!
• Iva - Um...alright?
• Blaize - So its decided, lets go team.

---

Eventually they reached Skrakens hide out.

• Niyra - Okay here's what is going to go down, Ahred and G-Sker will stand guard, Iva and Timaal will check the outside of the rock pile, while Vonnes and Dione will check the surrounding area, me and Blaize will check inside, if that's okay with you Blaize?
• Blaize - You're "Sherlock Holmes".

And so they set off to go check out their respective areas. Niyra and Blaize entered the rock pile, it was quite dark, but light created by Blaize's intense heat and Niyra's yellow eye provided more than enough light to see.

• Blaize - Hey Niyra whats up with that funky eye of yours?
• Niyra - Oh this is my Evil Eye its a rare genetic trait some Vanara have, its said to protect the owner from spirits of Destrude.
• Blaize - Alright. I don't quite understand what you mean. But hell, it's helping us see.

They were silent for sometime before Niyra spoke up.

• Niyra - Hey Blaize come here, there's some weird shinny residue.
• Blaize - I don't see anything.
• Niyra - Hmmm that's probably cause it only show up on the Ultraviolet spectrum.

Niyra leaned down to take a sample before standing back up.

• Niyra - Well there doesn't appear to be anything else here, lets get back to the others.

---

Meanwhile, Iva and Timaal were walking around the outside of the rock pile. They were moving rocks around and digging up patches of dirt.

• Timaal - Remember when I said this would be interesting?
• Iva - Yes, I recall.
• Timaal - Well I take it back. This blows.
• Iva - Well I do not know how fun you expected this to be, Timaal.
• Timaal - I thought we were gonna be fighting crime or something.
• Iva - Crime? I doubt there's a crime related to this cadet's disappearance.
• Timaal - well what do you think happened?
• Iva - He must be off somewhere. Relaxing or thinking. I doubt any thing bad happened to him.
• Timaal - I dunno. Seems kind of weird that his own teammates couldn't find him.
• Iva - Also...do you think Niyra actually knows any humans?
• Timaal - What? Well maybe? I mean she said something about a human character named "Surely Homeless".
• Iva - I believe it was "Sherlock Holmes" Timaal.

Timaal shook his head and continued to look. Iva couldn't pick up Skraken's scent anywhere.

---

Meanwhile, Dione and Vonnes were searching in the woods around the cave. Dione had looked around, hefting boulders and knocking down trees in frustration. Vonnes took his time, calmly looking around.

• Dione - Dammit! I can't find anything!
• Vonnes - Calm down, Dione.
• Dione - Sorry Vonnes...I just hate that we've been looking around in the woods for half an hour.
• Vonnes - Hmph, well it's not like this is actually our problem.
• Dione - What do you mean? A cadet is missing!
• Vonnes - This should be handled by the adults. This is none of our business.
• Dione - Look Vonnes, Niyra asked us to help her and we all agreed to help.
• Vonnes - I know. I agreed to help her. But did you ever think that there's probably something else going on here?
• Dione - Something...else?
• Vonnes - Before today, at least seven other cadets have gone missing.
• Dione - Well...now that you mention it yeah. But I just assumed I hadn't seen those cadets in a while.
• Vonnes - I think someone...or something is kidnapping our peers.
• Dione - You may be right Vonnes. We should tell the others.

Vonnes nods and follows Dione back to the cave.

---

Blaize and Niyra climbed out of the cave into the sunlight and returned to the others.

• Niyra - Anyone find anything?
• Iva - Nope.
• Dione - Nothing here.
• Niyra - Well we found some weird Ultraviolet residue, I'll run some test when we get back to S.O.S headquarters.

Suddenly a voice came on from the academies PA system calling all trainees to gather.

The Shielding

The cadets marched into the main arena, where Hydarax awaited them, as well as several other trainers. He cleared his throat, as his Energy Hound snapped to attention, as though ready to hunt.

• Hydarax - Today, is the most important part of your training! Your strength has increased, and as such, you are ready for this!

Niyra leaned towards Makoro, and whispered.

• Niyra - Do you know what he's talking about?
• Makoro - No, I think we have to listen.
• Hydarax - Today, you shall gain your greatest defense, for your greatest weapon. A telepathic shield, to guard against telepathic incursions. For your wars against the Darklings, this will be the most important weapon you can receive! If your mind is open to the Brotherhood, you could potentially be corrupted! Today, our top Psionic Commandos will be training you on how to focus your mind to create a permanent shield, that shall never leave you. Listen to everything they say, as I and Loudrak do a head count!

The teams organized into straight lines, as Hydarax and Loudrak called names, and waited for them to respond.

• Hydarax - Niyra Drago Yeager! Report!
• Niyra - Here sir!

As they marched down the lines, Jallas turned around to face Niyra.

• Jallas - What happens when they find out Shraken's missing?
• Niyra - I...don't know.
• Commando - You! Cadet Jallas, eyes forward!
• Jallas - *snapping around* Yes ma'am!

While she could not see Jallas, she could feel the heat rising off of him. His fists where clenched, and, when he turned his head to the side, she could see his left eye narrowed, burning with fury.

It then crossed Niyra's mind that Jallas must've really, hated that title of Cadet, much more then she originally thought.

• Hydarax - Cadet Shraken Nitrocon!

He waited, turning his head about.

• Loudrak - Shraken, are you here?
• Hydarax - That little brat!
• Niyra - Wait, sir!
• Hydarax - Is your name Shraken?!
• Niyra - Cadet Shraken went missing this morning. Me and my squad, plus Squad Tyris, went out and searched for him.
• Timaal - Aww...c'mon Niyra...don't drag us into it!
• Hydarax - All of you will receive your telepathic shield, then report to my office! I cannot believe you did not think to tell me this ahead of time!

Hydarax marched back, teeth grinding, as his hound carefully traced behind him.

---

Niyra came up behind Jallas, after his telepathic shielding was done. He looked somewhat nauseas.

• ??? - Next Cadet, step forward.

Niyra did so, as a female Ugandalorian Ultra Commando flexed her armored hands, and looked down at Niyra, smiling.

• ??? - Hello, I am Farphia, I will be assisting you in your shielding.
• Niyra- Alright ma'am.
• Farphia - Now the first thing I shall do is assist you by lending you some of my telepathic power.

Farphia pressed her hands to Niyra's temples, and closed her eyes. Niyra felt a surge of power through her brain, like a shot of caffeine. It made her feel she could solve any problem. Farphia breathed in deeply.

• Farphia - Alright, now imagine the energy forming a "bubble" around your brain. Fixate on that idea. I will help you.

Niyra did, imaging her brain, and the energy swirling around it like water, forming and focusing into a thick layer around it, as Farphia kept giving her elemental power. Finally, in her minds' eye, she saw it completed, and she felt...safer for some reason.

• Farphia - You may be nauseas or have flu-like symptoms in the next few hours. It's natural.
• Niyra - Are you ok?

Farphia looked ashen, and out of breath. She breathed deeply, and attached a mask like object to her face. With a click, it connected to her face, and, with a pulse, seemed to pour energy into her. When she took it off and put it in an alcove, she looked restored.

• Farphia - Giving you my energies causing me to loose some energy, but these masks, crafted by retired Ultra Commandos with the help of the Undying Spirit, restore it. Thank you for asking though. Have a nice day Niyra.

She smiled pleasantly at the young Commando, as she went off. She felt good, other then some light headedness, but turned to see a flash of white and slight bvlue heading for a carbage can. Apparently, Makoro was not of the same opinion.

---

Niyra walk into Hydarax's office her head held high, a steely glint in her eyes. Now most would have been quivering in fear, Niyra however did not let anyone intimidate or push her around no matter who they were and she wasn't about to start.

• Hydarax - So Niyra you're here, but where are the others?
• Niyra - Leave them out of this, this is between you and me alone.
• Hydarax - How so?
• Niyra - I'm the one who talked them all into this the responsibility is mine and mine alone.

Hydarax was secretly impressed, not only was she standing her ground were as most would be begging for mercy and she was willing to take the fall and not drag her partners in crime down as well, she had the markings of a great leader, maybe even a leader among leaders, but he was getting ahead of himself.

• Hydarax - So why did you not tell me about Skrakens disappearance as soon as you got the news?
• Niyra - I thought he had just went off to pout, I was going to find him knock some sense into him and drag him back... but then some other evidence came to light suggesting otherwise.
• Hydarax - Go on.
• Niyra - I found this weird residue in Skrakens hide out, the fact that he did not show up for one of the most important events here, and latter Cadet Vonnes mentioned that seven other cadets had gone missing before hand.

Hydarax got up and paced around, finally he stopped and sighed, he was about to make a very important decision, one that could put at risk the entire future of this academy. Finally he turned to Niyra.

• Hyadarax - Yes I'am aware of the disappearances, but have been unable to investigate it because the cadets would notice if their trainers were to go missing and if they found out the truth they would panic...which is why I'm putting you in charge.
• Niyra - What?
• Hydarax - You may include anyone who can help in this investigation and can keep a secret, is this understood?

Niyra just sat there in a dase, she had not been expecting this.

• Hydarax - Is this understood!?

Niyra snapped to attention and saluted.

• Niyra - Yes sir! Niyra Drago Yeager and the rest of S.O.S is one the case.
• Hydarax - Go! now go to bed and get some sleep.

Niyra walk out with a considerable spring in her step. When she was gone Hydarax whispered into the darkness.

• Hydarax - Your going to need it.

---

Their first major clue would come sooner than any of them would have expected, for it was the middle of the night when a massive explosion was heard. The cadets and trainers all ran out to see a massive, translucent, vaguely humanoid figure tearing up the place. Niyra ran out to see the sight her music player still hanging from one ear.

• Niyra - What the...

This was cut off as the creature turned its glowing red eyes to stare into her own gaze, for a few brief seconds she felt all alone and very small as if drifting in an endless sea of nothing, then she heard the screaming that echoed from deep within it, the screaming of a voice she knew. But then as soon as it began it stop as the teachers attack it with weapons and elemental powers, the beast bellowed in rage before a blinding flash of light came from it, when everyone's vision had cleared the creature was gone. Niyra looked around confused and saw her friends running over.

• Makoro - What was that thing?
• Niyra - That? That was no thing...that...that was Skraken...
• Makoro - What? What are you talking about?
• Niyra - I heard him...screaming. He was inside that thing.
• Makoro- This is bad. Really bad.
• Loudrak - ALL OF YOU! Back to bed!!

All of the cadets felt their eardrums ringing, though they still managed to find their war back to their bunks. Team Tyris was in the same barracks as Nirya and her team. They came over to their bunks to discuss things.

Bonding

As Nirya and her team approached, they noticed team Tyris was already talking about what just happened. Niyra and friends simply slid right into the conversation.

• Timaal - Does anyone know what the hell that thing was!?
• Dione - I don't know. Whatever it was it was pissed off about somethin'.
• Blaize - I was about to attack the damn thing, but the teachers had to restrain me.
• Makoro - You were gonna attack it!?
• Timaal - The big guy likes his sleep. The explosion woke all of us up.
• Ahred - Where's Iva?
• Niyra - Wouldn't you like to know, huh?
• Ahred - That's enough, loco! I'm not some teenage Raptoranean, you know!
• Dione - She's with Vonnes. She was outside during the attack and that thing's energy had some adverse affects in her.
• Halha - Affects?
• Timaal - Yeah. She spazzed out and hit me with her staff. Then she blasted Dione with a Mana Sphere and ran away. Blaize went after her and tried to attack that beast, but got retrained. Vonnes went after her then.

Vonnes eventually returns with Iva. He was carrying her over his shoulder. He entered their room and plopped her on her bed.

• Dione - Hey! You could be a bit more gentle with her!
• Vonnes - Gentle? She went crazy and tried to kill us all.
• Blaize - How'd you even manage to calm her down?
• Vonnes - I knocked her out.
• Ahred - You what!?
• Vonnes - I don't need to explain my actions to you. I got her back and that's that.
• Timaal - That's true.

Vonnes sits down on his bed.

• G-Sker - Hey, it looks like we'll be working together some more huh?
• Dione - It sure appears that way.
• G-Sker - Why don't we talk about our pasts? Like our families and stuff. I think it could help us with team building.
• Timaal - Well. That sounds cool. We'll still get a good amount is sleep too.
• Niyra - Okay. Bliaze, how about you go first?
• Blaize - Huh? Well...alright. I was born on Volcanis. My dad is King Magmos Moltran, king of my people. My grandfather was Lord Lavern Moltran...who passed on recently. I guess I lived a pretty privileged childhood. Loved in a palace, had lots of aunts and cousins. Then my father and I discovered I had the potential to use the Stone element. No Lavatuft has ever used an element besides fire. He had no idea how to train me, so he sent me here.
• Halha - Wow. You're probably pretty lonely here huh? I mean you're the only Lavatuft in the academy.
• Blaize - I guess. But it's sort of fun living here.
• Halha - Timaal, how about you? What's your story?
• Timaal - Well I'm the only son of a Volver Knight who is on the official King's Guard. My mother trains cadets at the Asconian Military academy. And my two sisters are well trained knights stationed on Ugandalore. I'm from a family of fighters. It was risky for me and the other Volver here to come to this academy, with that whole Blood Knight thing going on. But I made it here safely after discovering I could use Water elements.
• Dione - I'll go next. From birth I was trained to fight, as most Soldarians. I never knew a time when my muscles weren't aching from overuse. My Grandfather was Bengo Flett, a Soldarian a Super Elite. I inherited some of his...genetic enhancements along with my father and brothers. My brothers are here at the academy too...ugh. They both control plasma, while I was gifted with the awesome power of lightning.
• Makoro - There are more Soldarians at the academy? I haven't seen many. Maybe 10 or so.
• Dione - That's because...Male Soldarians tend to get into fights with other males of different species. Sort of a "dominance thing". Most of them are most likely in detention.
• Ahred - What about you Iva?

Iva Had been awake long enough to hear Timaal's story. She was completely calm again.

• Iva - Well, like most Antroths, my father is in the army. He's actually King Oskel's right hand man, Commander Shal. My mother is a healer, Court Official, and sometimes sells medicine. I was sent off to shaman's school like every other gifted female. But I was among a select few that could harness Mana Energy to it's fullest. My father arranged that I come here with the other females and learn how to use it.
• Ahred - Wait..wait wait wait. There are MORE female Antroths here?
• Iva - Well...yes. But you wouldn't see us very often. There's only two Antroth teachers here. One is female and one is male. We all learn from the female teacher, however you're Elemental Energy is different from Mana Energy. Therefore, all female Antroths have to learn from our own kind.
• Halha - Then why are you in a group with these guys?
• Iva - I was a left over student when they picked teams. So I decided to join up with races I recognized.
• G-Sker - Still even if you guys have a specific teacher...that doesn't explain why they have all the Antroths in a barrack to themselves.
• Iva - Oh...um. Well you see, most Antroths...especially the females..see other races as food. Unless they have certain relations with other races. Young Antroths don't initially acknowledge this. So chances of a cadet being hunted down and eaten by one is pretty high.
• Niyra - Wow...good thing all of our races are allied right?
• Iva - Yes. It does narrow down the selection a bit. [Glares at G-Sker]
• G-Sker - Um...ahem...right. So um..Vonnes. What about you? What's your story?
• Vonnes - I'd rather not share.
• Blaize - C'mon Vonnes. We all shared.
• Vonnes - Is that supposed to help me change my mind?
• Niyra - Hey! What's your problem!?
• Vonnes - Problem?
• Halha - You say we're a team but you shut us out.
• Ahred - Yeah!
• Vonnes - There are few things I won't do. And one of them is telling you about my past.
• Timaal - Come on dude! They just wanna know more about you.
• Vonnes - If I tell you will you all stop pestering me?
• Niyra - Yeah we promise!
• Vonnes - [sighs]...Fine. I don't know where I was born. But I know I grew up on a ship. Mostly because the UAE hunted my people down like animals.
• Timaal - [Growls]
• Vonnes - [Glares at Timaal, then looks back at Niyra's group] This is quite literally the first planet I've ever set foot on. I had a distant relationship with my parents...I was mainly raised by the ship's super computers and training officers. My mother was some type of scientist. And my father...

There was a brief moment of silence. Vonnes eyes, at that very moment, showed a sign of anger and fear. This was the first time Niyra had seen Vonnes show any emotion. He clenched his fists, returning back to his emotionless state.

• Vonnes - Nevermind him.
• Niyra - Did something happen? Between you and him?
• Vonnes - I...all I can say is that me and him...are not on the same page. Anyways, I was trained to be a soldier. I was considered the best of my class. I even fought during the Nyarqaeshu Invasion.
• Blaize - Shit dude! That war was insane!
• Vonnes - Yes. I saw those countless lives being lost and whole planets being laid to waste while you all sat pretty in your colonies. After the war...Your Ugandalore decided that I be an ambassador between the Biskin and the UAE. I was sent here to train and understand my...power.
• Makoro - Wow...I can see why you're so cold all the time. No offense.
• Vonnes - None taken. I understand. How about you all share?
• Niyra - Well I was born after the Nyarqaeshu Invasion, I grew up in pretty run down part of Matrukoris...
• Jallas - Who are your parents?
• Niyra - Vanara Sixers Akanri and Seerkar.
• Ahred - Wow, your mom is the Black Rose Witch?
• Niyra - Yeah what of it?
• Makoro - What of it? Your parents fought along side the original Ultra Commandos team!
• Halha - And fought Darkling Torakix, and won the second time.
• Niyra - Well they don't really like to talk about it, the war was pretty hard on them.

She drifted off briefly, then looked towards Makoro and the others.

• Niyra - So, you guys wanna share?
• Makoro - Well, as I told Niyra, I'm the son of a scholar, and had my hopes pinned on being a diplomat or translator. I was commonly the subject of bullies, yet Jallas there always had my back. I...as an Ultra Commando, doubt I'll be around for long. I'm not the strongest around.
• Jallas - It's ok Mak. Anyway, I'm Captain Jallas, former commander of the Blood Bearers, Ugandalore's Elite guard, and one of the best. I never knew my parents, and I was raised, like all Blood Bearers, to be among the elite. My strength and skill was so, that I became captain of the Bearers. Then I lost my rank and got sent here.

Halha smiled at Jallas, who nodded slightly at her.

• Halha - I was raised on a farming colony that was only recentely set up, thus there weren't that much recourses. When I was growing up, I was often ignored and overlooked. But then, I discovered my elemental power, they did send me to this place! That was the best part of my life!
• G-Sker - I was born after the Dominatus onslaught. The Dominatus destroyed my empire, my home, even my family. Only my father remained. The survivors of my race fled as far as we could, until we were found by the Hegemony. Setting the score with the Tyranny was...satiating for my kind...though...my father did during the battle for Manticore. I was young, and now, tutuly on my own. I learned to survive on my own as well. Honed my skills on my own. However, I was found, and brought here, were my elemenatlpower further developped itself. Loudrak is sort of a new father to me.
• Ahred - Well, like Halha, I was born on some far-off colony. But rather than soe wet place, I was born on a desert planet. Naturally, we didn't have much food and relied on trade with outsides for most parts. Luckily, my race are gifted potters. I was going to inherit the business my family had set up, but when my Elemental power proved strong enough, I was send here. Where's there's more then enough food!

They all laughed as, they where called back for further academic training.

---

Niyra woke with a start and looked around seeing only darkness.

• Niyra - I must be dreaming.
• ??? - Indeed you are sister.
• Niyra - Huh? Who's there and why did you call me sister?
• ??? - Because I'm your sister silly.

A small brown furred Vanara with dark yellow eyes stepped out of the shadows.

• Niyra - Wait a minute moms pregnant?
• Sister - Brilliant deduction?
• Niyra - Well I'am rather good at them and I see that I've already been replaced.
• Sister - Oh no they miss you very much.
• Niyra - I know that, I was only joking.
• Sister - Of course.
• Niyra - So why are you here in my dream?
• Sister - Perhaps we share a connection of sorts.
• Niyra - Perhaps.

The two were silent for a moment.

• Niyra - So what now?
• Sister - We could talk, hows the investigation going.
• Niyra - Oh the investigation, well....

And so the two to be sisters sat and talked until it was time for Niyra to wake up.

Getting into it

The next day Niyra called a meeting to the junk room she had named S.O.S headquarters.

• Blaize - This had better be good, I'm missing breakfast.
• Niyra - Get used to it, your gonna miss meals and sleep.
• Vonnes - Well I'm good with it, some people are accusing me of Skraken's disappearance.
• Blaize - Well you're the only Biskin here, so I guess they'd blame you.
• Vonnes- You should be more concerned. They're accusing you too, Lava Lug.
• Blaize - What!? Those idiots...alright. Let's get this case solved.
• Niyra - Wow boy, were gonna take this slow at first, we need to get everything.
• G-Sker - So were do we start?
• Niyra - We start by figuring out what this strange residue is, Timaal there's a chemical scanner in the closet, be a dear and go get it, Kay?
• Timaal - Alright.

After almost being buried in all the junk, Timaal managed to wheel out the big, bulky machine and hooked it up to the computer. Niyra slipped the sample in and waited. It took awhile before an image of a DNA strand appeared on the computer screen before separating into two strands of RNA, one which the computer identified.

• Jallas - Is that...
• Timaal - Volver, yeah.
• Halha - And the other?
• Niyra - Doesn't know.
• Makoro - What's that?

Niyra looked and then clicked causing the RNA to go back to DNA.

• G-Sker - Incredible. A third helix is forming.
• Niyra - Interesting, very interesting.

A lesson in history

As they investigated the DNA, the announcements came on, announcing the history courses next. Each got up, and, saving their materials for future study, went off to the designated room.

Awaiting them was a massive room, filled with several students, and, at it's head, was an Ugandalorian Ultra Commando of Ice. he had the typical telescopic lens over his left eye, allowing him to focus and see through objects and scan people. He was covered in scars, and, strangely, had a left leg and right arm in a caste. Based on his stance, and his walking stick, he obviously had just received these limbs from stem cell treatments.

• ??? - File in, file in. I am Commando Hangu Clett, no relation to our current Ugandalore. I will be teaching you today. And before you ask, these limbs are stem cell grown, after a Zarbanian kaiju made a mistake of trying to eat me. It took my leg off, and bit my arm off before it swallowed me. But it's in a better place now.

Many of the students shuddered at the cold edge in his voice, as he watched each.

• Hangu - Until I can get back to fighting, I will be teaching you the history of Koatria, and why we're fighting who we're fighting.

With a clap of his hands, the room darkened, and he began his tale.

• Hangu - The Koatria of today began when the Ugandalorians as a primitive society where gifted with the power to command a certain element by a race also called Koatria, who where fleeing their dying universe. Their goal was to spread the seeds of their power, so that a future generation would rise to fight a force of shadow.

The screen behind him lit up with images of ancient Ugandal art. it showed the various tribes and clans, in their primitive garb and armor, meeting with tall, heavily armored beings, who, while humanoid, seemed lacking in skin, their muscle tissue being all sorts of blues, greens, and reds.

• Hangu - And this force...is the Brotherhood.

Behind, the screen showed legions of the Brotherhood's servants on the march. Scuttling across the ground, where the mighty Mutran Spiders, and their mutated slaves. Marching forth in a permeate rage, where the Rakar Beasts, sons of the Darklings. Standing above them, in ancient robs, where the Shadows of Change, editing the planet they stood on as Cultists sang demonic hymns of glory to the brotherhood. And, above them all, was a Darkling. Massive, armored, and reptilian in look, the Darkling watched over his legions, then, turned to the camera, and with a rage filled roar, leapt forth on a pair of massive wings. The screen went dark.

• Hangu - The Brotherhood where once gods, the Koatria their demigod allies, and both answered to Zaraturai and Dark One. While at first there was peace, Dark became jealous, betrayed his sister, and restructured the Brotherhood for his new purpose. However, some still fight alongside us, lead by Miterix. The Brotherhood, however, the one loyal to Dark One, is not to be trusted.

Scenes began to show of various Darklings, rampaging through cities, lacing their claws together as they watched their legions rampage through the city. Niyra's jaws clenched as she saw Torackix, standing over armored skeletons, smoking as she stomped over them, and cackling with sadistic glee.

• Hangu - They are deceptive, and we have yet to win a battle that, for the long term, does not work to their benefit. We have yet to even kill a Darkling in battle. However, studies show, that their weakness is a thing, almost invisible line across their neck, which connects their inner energy with their physical body.

He limbed forward, showing a Darkling, in his fully armored body, turning his neck towards the camera, as the scientist studying him, brought a laser pointer across the thin line on his neck.

• Hangu - The Koatria of today are of many races, and are important to the fight against the Brotherhood. You shall face the brotherhood, and many enemies. The Koatria must remain vigilant of any enemies of the Alliance, especially against your brothers who have turned to shadow. This is why you have the telepathic shielding. Any Koatria without their mental shielding is a target for Darklings, like a light house. Or like sticking someone in a room filled with hungry monsters.

He waved his hand through the air, pacing about.

• Hangu - Koatria, thanks to how wide-spread the Ugandals and their energy is, are showing up in all sorts of colonies. But this has also lead to increased Darkling activity. Of course, in our operations, Ultra Commandos are getting shuffled around more and more to deal with our conventional enemies, and the Brotherhood, who are taking these young, adolescent Commandos before we can give them a mental shield. We don't know why.

He seemed to stop and contemplate for a second, before holding up holo-files.

• Hangu - These files will go into the full history of the Commando Corps. Their wins, their defeats, and everything else.

Niyra accepted her holo-file, as her class walked out. The teacher shot her a curious glance, as though he was trying to dissect her.

Vonnes' Plan

Later at lunch, Niyra and her friends noticed that team Tyris was sitting together inside the mess hall for once. They sat at their table, being welcomed by the group.

• Niyra - What did you guys think about history class today?
• Vonnes - I found the history of these...Darklings and Koatria to be quite interesting.
• Dione - Are you sure it's history? Sounds like a bunch of religious nonsense to me.
• Jallas - How dare you! My people have gone through many hardships in history. To say that those things didn't happen would be showing the outright disrespect for our ancestors.
• Blaize - Cool it, Jallas. Back home we didn't run into that stuff.
• Helha - What do you mean?
• Iva - Well, the Darklings did not have much influence on our history. So we did not acknowledge their existence until Tyris Major became part of the UFG.

There was a bit of silence for a while, small talk here and there.

• Makoro - Hey, Vonnes.
• Vonnes - Hm?
• Makoro - Did you hear the news about the rebellions and stuff? The Biskin are going to help the UAE deal with the Blood Knights.
• Vonnes - And?
• Makoro - I jut thought you'd like to know. I hear King Ziskin is-
• Vonnes - Enough.

Vonnes was glaring at Makoro. His red eyes and split pupils were staring right into Makoro's soul. Makoro suddenly began to fear Vonnes, and decided to drop the conversation.

• Niyra - Anyways...Timaal...why do you think that there was Volver DNA in that residue?
• Timaal - It's strange...I've never seen anything like it.
• Helha - Really? Volver don't secrete any fluids that resemble that? Like skin oils or blood maybe?
• Timaal - No. Volver skin is very important, so nothing like oils would be secreting. We hardly sweat either...and this planet is not hot enough to cause us to.
• Dione - What about blood? I'm sure Skraken wouldn't have been taken without a fight.
• Timaal - Well, for starters, Volver blood remains oxygen rich, even after death. That residue had little to none. Also, My kind are qite heavy set and bulky. There's no way a Volver could have kidnapped Skraken without being seen.
• Iva - I also didn't pick up a Volver scent at the scene.
• Niyra - Blast...alright. We'll have to look into this further.
• Vonnes - You know...I wouldn't be surprised if those Blood Knights kidnapped him.
• Niyra - What? That's ridiculous. Two galaxies worth of people are looking for them, I doubt they would slip by so easily.
• Blaize - You'd be surprised.
• Vonnes - Think about it. This academy holds an important part of the UAE's future. If they attacked here, they could most likely stop any future generations of warriors.
• Helha - Wow...good point. May be they are connected.

• Vonnes - I'll look into it. Niyra, I'm going to need you and Timaal to come with me when I look for evidence. I think I stumbled upon something this morning.

• Blaize - I come with you guys.
• Vonnes - No. I need the rest of you to stay here. The other cadets will need support if I'm right.
• Jallas - Gotcha.

Vonnes stood up and thew his tray in the garbage. He nodded to the group and left the mess hall. Niyra and Timaal looked at each other. Then followed behind him with haste.

• Niyra - So when are you planning to look for evidence?
• Vonnes - Two hours before curfew this afternoon.
• Timaal - Um...why?
• Vonnes - That monster attacked while we were all asleep. So once it gets dark two hours before curfew, we are going to head out to a clearing I found in the woods. There were Volver foot prints in the dirt, along with a few scraps of metal.
• Niyra - So we are going into the woods in the dark?
• Vonnes - Shouldn't be a problem for us. I picked you two to come with me due to your eye sight. Volver have perfect vision in the light or dark. And you apparently have some type of enhancement in your eye. I on the other hand can see just as well as Timaal here. And if we run into trouble, we'll need Timaal's knight training and ability to fly to get us out of a pinch.
• Timaal - Huh...it's like you planned this out already.
• Vonnes - Yes I did. I knew about this two days ago.
• Niyra - What!? And you didn't tell us!?
• Vonnes - I didn't find the foot prints until this morning. Though I was monitoring the area. A sudden clearing on an otherwise lush planet? I found it to be suspicious.
• Niyra - Wow, you sure took this case seriously.
• Vonnes - I promised to help you didn't I? I am a man of my word.

Niyra smiled a bit, though Vonnes continued to remain emotionless. The trip walked to their next class. This time, Niyra sat next to Vonnes.

Things that go bump in the night

Even though it was not that dark out once you got into the cover of the forest any normal being would barley be able to see the hand in front of their face, luckily this was not much of a problem for members of races with some of the best night vision out there. Unfortunately this led to being able to seeing something one may not want to see.

• Timaal - Uh, Niyra your drooling.
• Niyra - Huh?

Sure enough a large amount of thick grey drool hung off the side of Niyra's mouth.

• Niyra - Oh right, sorry.

Niyra grabbed a leaf off a tree and wiped her mouth off on it, the leaf shriveled up.

• Timaal - Is your saliva poisonous?
• Niyra - *Laughs* No that would be my blood, my mouth is filled with thousands a different types of radioactive bacteria, why do you think you never see me brushing my teeth.
• Timaal - Well I wouldn't know that you don't brush your teeth because I'm not allowed in the girls bathroom.
• Niyra - True, does your race have any poisons to speak of?
• Timaal - Well we can shout a pretty potent one from our tails and we are immune to all other poisons except Antroth venom, what about you Vonnes?
• Vonnes - Well, we don't naturally produce poisons, however we are immune to some types. Speaking of that I thought Vanara produced lethal amounts of radiation, how come were not dropping like flies around you Niyra?
• Niyra - My race we developed something similar to sunblock you could say except it keeps the radiation contained within our bodies.
• Vonnes - Ah, so that's it.

The trio walked on until they came to the clearing Vonnes had located.

• Timaal - Yeah these are Volver foots prints alright.
• Vonnes - And these scraps of metal, they are red.
• Timaal - Yeah I'd say the Blood Knights are here.
• Vonnes - That's bad, you got anything Niyra?
• Niyra - Oh yeah, this place is covered in that ultraviolet slime, you know its kind of pretty in a sorta slimy and mucusey way, if you know what I mean.
• Timaal - I don't think I do.
• Niyra - Oh well its your...
• Vonnes - What is it?

Niyra just pointed to the trees where a strange orb of light had appeared, it was soon fallowed by more similar orbs. Three of the orbs came towards them slowly, Niyra, Timaal, and Vonnes readied their weapons. The orbs seem to hesitated for a moment, before shouting forward before the three could react and entering them. For a few brief moments their minds were filled with visions. Blood Knights landing on the planet, various images of the academy, the planet, all finally coming towards a gigantic mountain and within they could hear something that sounded like the beating of a heart, ancient, powerful, evil. Then suddenly as it had begun it was over, their new mental shields kicked in and the orbs were hurled back, screeching they fled into the forest.

• Niyra - Vonnes, I think I'm going to make new chief deputy of this investigation.
• Vonnes - Why?
• Niyra - I think you gave us our most important lead yet.

And that was when they heard the alarm sound.

Under Siege

They ran back to see at least eight of the giants attacking the academy, all in different places and two spred out to make a concentrated effort, while the strange spheres they had seen earlier zipped around, stunning the cadets allowing the giants to absorb them. While most of the academy seemed pretty well covered by the trainers, where Delta regiments barracks were located there was no one to defend it.

• Makoro - What do we do, can we do anything?

Niyra stared out at the attacker her teeth bared as a snarl issued fourth, she turned to the others.

• Niyra - I don't know, but we're going to have to do something, Delta regiment barracks need our help, so here's what were going to do. Ahred and G-Sker, I want you to get every one who is injured or simply incapable of fighting to safety. Jallas, Halha, and Makoro I need you guys to gather all those who can fight together. Timaal, Iva, and Dione see if you can take out those spheres. Blaize, Vonnes, and me...
• Blaize - Yes?
• Niyra - Were going to take that giant.
• All - Right!

Niyra turned to face the destruction before her and activated her AIC Beam Sabers, their purple glow lighting up the darkness

• Niyra - Then let's do this!

The teams ran in separate directions. As Niyra began to approach the first giant, a platoon of Blood knights ambushed the three. Blaize roared at them and charged right into the group. Unfortunately, the Blood Knights raised their shields, forming a phalanx, stopping Blaize's forward motion. The Blood Knights then gained up on him, stabbing him multiple times. Nirya and Vonnes finally caught up to him, finding him covered in Blood Knights. Blaize managed to knock them away and jumped back to his friends. The Blood Knights stood their ground, protecting the Giants. The Blood knights began to rush them, easily overwhelming the three. Niyra's speed and radiation power kicked in, allowing her to gain a slight advantage, though she was unable to truly put a dent into the Blood Knight's armor. Blaize began to breathe a heavy stream of fire, burning a few of the knights. Vonnes was slashing his way through the platoon, attempting to make his way to the giants. Niyra kicked a Blood Knight to the ground, and stomped on his helmet, though this wasn't enough to knock him out. He grabbed her leg and slammed her to the ground. Blaize was too far away to lend aid. She was barely holding the knight's arm back, preventing his blade from entering her skull.

• Niyra - Guys! H-help!

• Blaize - Hold on! I'm coming!

Before Blaize could reach her, Vonnes had already driven his claws through the blood knight's neck. His blood had splattered on Niyra's fur, as well as parts of Vonnes' chest plate. He lifted the knight up and slammed him into the ground. With absolute brutality, Vonnes ripped the knight's spine out through his neck. Niyra was still on the ground in shock, staring at Vonnes holding the knight's spine. Blaize picked her up and set her on his shoulders. Her charged through the remaining Blood Knights no problem. Niyra had never seen something so brutal, and was even more shock to see Vonnes do such a thing. Another knight approached him. Vonnes dodged the knights's blade and grabbed his arm. Vonnes broke the knights's arm and crushed blade unit on his forearm. Vonnes then grabbed the knight by his chestplate and drove the other blood knight's spine into his skull. Death was instantaneous for the knight.

Vonnes looked to his left and saw a Ugandalorian clad in the same crimson red armor. As the blood knights. Vonnes stared at him in confusion. A nine more Ugandalorians appeared by his side. Vonnes readied his bladed claws and lightning sword. The Ugandalorians charged him. Vonnes ducked and weaved the attacks before slashing one of the Ugandals across the neck. One Ugandalorian got through Vonnes' dodging and managed to stab him in the leg. Vonnes simply glared at the Ugandalorian, showing no emotion what so ever. Vonnes grabbed him by the neck and crushed his trachea. He then threw him into another Ugandalorian before removing the blade from his leg. Vonnes sprang forward, slicing through two of the Ugandals, he the drew his plasma pistols and began to light them up. Before he knew it, he had killed them all. He sighed, kneeling down to check his wound. He then looked I've in the distance and saw Blaize and Niyra standing at the feet of a Giant.

The beast roared and slammed its fist down forcing them to jump out of the way, the creature hissed a lashed out smashing a building, the buildings material was absorbed into it causing it to grow.

• Blaize - Great the more it destroys the bigger it gets.
• Vonnes - It seems so.
• Niyra - Fantastic.

Blaize roared unleashing a blast of flame which the creature just swatted aside before slamming him into a wall. Vonnes charged, but the beast back handed him, he hit the ground and didn't get backup. Niyra over to check on him, he was still alive. The creature bellowed and Niyra turned to find herself face to face with the beast, a black hole opened from in between its two red eyes and swallowed Niyra.

---

Eco, Ahred and G-Sker

---

Jallas, and his comrades ran towards a group of blood knights, Halha firing twin blaster pistols, as Makoro took out his own blade. Jallas unsheathed his old Blood Bearers Blade, and a pistol, and began firing at them.

• Blood Knight 1 - Aw, the children wish to fight us! What foolery!
• Jallas - I stopped being a kid a long time ago, traitor.
• Blood Knight - Fool, I shall pick my teeth with this one's bones.

The Blood Knight and his squad charged at them, as the 3 Ultra Commandos opened fire. As 2 of the knights approached, Makoro froze them in place, as Jallas and the rebel leader clashed in titanic sword, blade striking blade as they whipped and whorled.

Jallas and the leader struck blades, energy crackling form his, as his body began to heat up, steam coming form his body, billowing out of his jaws as he spoke.

• Jallas - Killing children? Your no better then Dead Watch.
• Blood Knight - Do not speak as though you under stand the plan, heretic. Lord Ada will rise again, and compel us towards a new divine path of power.
• Jallas - You keep talking, but all I hear is bullshit.

The Blood Knight growled, and swiped out with a second blade. Jallas blocked strikes from both with his Claymore, before slamming a kick into the Knight's face.

Meanwhile, Makoro and Halha where engaged by Knight from all around, back-to-back as they fought them off, with sword and axe. Suddenly, a green blur landed between, and flexed his arms out, as blasts of air sent the wave of knights flying around.

• Halha - Kogro! Thank goodness your here.
• Kogro - I heard a lady in need, so I decided to help. Was helpful Makoro?
• Makoro - Not funny...

Kogro patted him on the head, and chuckled, as he drew his twin repeaters. Giggling like a child, he opened fire, plastering every Knight he could see with plasma fire, his giggling soon turning into almost psychotic laughter, as Makoro and Halha silently took out any stranglers.

As they finished up, Kogro held up his twin blasters.

• Kogro - I love my guns.

Jallas and his own rival still where locked in battle, each clearly a match for the other. However, Jallas, still seemingly burn hotter and hotter as the battle went on, finally made his big move, after blocking strike after strike from the Knight Leader.

He tackled him, using his sword to hang onto him, and jamming it in his hip. The Knight roared at him, as he focused all the power of flame he could, before unleashing it in a pulse. The fiery energy ripped through his body and onto the Knight, in a shock wave of energy that tore through the rebel, burning his tattered remains.

Jallas stood up, and gave an animalistic roar to the skies.

• Kogro - The dark god Korhosh called, he wants you to take anger management courses.
• Jallas - Shut up.

---

Meanwhile, Timaal, Iva and Dione managed to get closer to the spheres. Iva used her Mana Energy to amplify Dione's Essence reserves, increasing her lightning' overall power. Dione blasted the orbs, a few of them exploded from the power of Dione's ligntning. Before she could destroy anymore, a Blood Knight descended from the rooftop and kicked Dione away from the orbs. Dione did a backflip and landed safely next to Timaal. More Blood Knights could be seen fighting the various teachers and other students in the background. Iva looked up and saw a Volver Cruiser, though it was a crimson red. The single Blood Knight drew his weapons, though he chucked while doing so.

• Tilaas - Allow me to introduce myself young ones, I am Tilaas of the the Gyssealus clan.
• Dione - Timaal...that guy has the same last name as you...
• Iva - Yeah, even his name sounds similar...
• Timaal - Yeah I noticed. We both share the "Ti" suffix in our names..
• Tilaas - Ah...another Volver. And here I thought this planet would have any of our kind on it.
• Timaal - Legan mannel thane, dhaernsa. (Leave this place, betrayer)
• Tilaas - Nid dryae vell nessh rilsa nandca! (Not until the young lay dead!)

Tilaas charged at the three cadets. Dione readied herself as Timaal jumped in gront of her and blocked Tilaas' attack with his shield. Dione lept over Timaal and kicked Tilaas in the face, causing him to stager backwards. Iva blasted Timaal with Mana Energy to increase his speed and strength. Timaal sprang forward and slammed into Tilaas with amazing force. Dione followed up with an electrified punch to Tilaal's face. Tilaal's backed up, still protecting the orbs.

• Tilaas - You children are quite good for your age. I'm especially impressed with you, Timaal.
• Timaal - No time for pleasantries, traitor.
• Tilaas - Come on young one, you and me are of the same kind. You know that you are one of the elite races here. Don't stoop down to these weakling's levels.
• Dione - Who you callin' weak pal!?
• Tilaas - Though it pains me to end the life of a young Volver, and even the young of other races, I have no choice to kill you if you continue to interfere.
• Iva - What are the Blood Knights even doing here...what are those monsters!?
• Tilaas - It is none of your business child.
• Dione - We ain't leaving without answers.
• Tilaas - Is that how lowly you value your lives? So be it. I warned you.

Tilaas was right in front of Dione in an instant. Before she could even react, Tilaas slashed her across her stomach, causing a deep wound. Dione was pushed back by the force of the blow. She cried in agony as she held her gaping wound. Iva panicked and attempted to blast Tilaas with a pulse of Mana, but he simply blocked it with his sheield. Timaal tried to reach Dione as Tilaas rushed Iva. Before Iva was able to put up a force field, Tilaas was already on her. He bashed her with his sheild and knocked her unconscious. Dione began to pass out from blood loss as Timaal tried to revive her. Timaal looked up and saw Tilaas standing over him. Tilaas kicked him back into th wall of the nearby building. Timaal shook this off and rushed Tilaas. The two clashed blades over and over, each of them occasionally blocking with their shields.

• Tilaas - Ah, so you have knight training! This just became more interesting!
• Timaal - Don't act like we are pals! You are a traitor to our clan and our people!

Timaal bashed Tilaas in the face with his shield. Tilaas staggered backwards, losing his balance. Before he regained his bearings, Timaal rushed him, driving his blade deep into Tilaas' chest. Tilaas managed to stab Timaal in the shoulder, causing large amounts of blood to be lost from both of them. Timaal dislodged his blade from Tilaas' rib cage, causing Tilaas' blade to dislodge from his shoulder. Tilaas fell to his knees, coughing up large amounts of blood. He removed his helmet, which was pooling with blood as well.

• Tilaas - How...a youngling...
• Timaal - You underestimated me traitor. May Athaan have mercy on your soul.

Timaal then beheaded Tilaas. Iva regained consciousness a few minutes afterwards. She used her Mana to repair Dione's wounds, though she remained unconscious.

Second Awakening

Blaize stared in horror at the beast that had just swallowed his friend, he heard a groan and turned to see Vonnes coming to.

• Vonnes - Damn, hey Blaize wheres Niyra?
• Blaize - That thing it ate her.
• Vonnes - No!

The others came over and realized that one of their number was missing.

• Blaize - *shaking* She's gone into that thing, she's gone.

Blaize was badly wounded, his shoulder had been blown clean off by the Giant. More Blood Knights appeared. Vonnes' wounds had caught up to him, and he could barely stand. This platoon consisted of Ugandalorians and Volver. They all drew their weapons and went straight for Blaize. Vonnes sprang into action and slashed down a few of them. He then stood in front of Blaize, trying to protect him. The knights stopped in their tracks, drawing their guns and aiming for Vonnes. Vonnes glared at them.

• Vonnes - Dammit...I guess I have to use it.

Vonnes raised his hand, is palm facing towards the knights. Before they could fire, Vonnes fired off a pulse of extremely volatile Dark Energy. The blast ripped right through the knights. Vonnes cringed in pain and held his arm, having little practice in using essence. The Knights take this opportunity to charge at Vonnes. He was completely vulnerable. Suddenly, white blur rushed past Vonnes and slammed into the group of knights. The blur became more clear to Vonnes. He saw an adult make Biskin. On closer inspection, he realized who it was.

• Vonnes - You...what are you doing here?
• Ziskin - You sound ungrateful child. I just saved your life.
• Vonnes - How did...
• Ziskin - Do you think I would send one of my kind here without keeping tabs? It's not like our species is very abundant anymore.
• Vonnes - I don't need your help.
• Ziskin - Watch your tongue, boy. You're lucky that I am less...violent towards children.

Ziskin looked back at the knights and dispatched them with ease. He saw Loudrak and Hydarax handling a group of knights in the distance. He looked at Vonnes and nodded to him. Vonnes presented to not notice and tried to wake Blaize up. Ziskin rushed over to aid Hydarax and the three cut down the knights.

• Hydarax - Ziskin!? What are you doing here!?
• Ziskin - I was on my way to Matukoris, when I saw Blood Knight ships looming over this world. I decided to lend aid, considering one of my own is here.
• Hydarax - Gee...thanks. Did you bring any reinforcements?
• Ziskin - I have troops deploying as of now. I also radioed the Soldarians, so Pulporious should be on his way.
• Loudrak - WOW! And here I thought you were EVIL!
• Ziskin - Good and evil are simply a matter of perspective. Now, I will leave you two to this. I'm going to help more of your young.

Hydarax nodded. Ziskin nodded back and rushed off into the barracks. He started to cut down more and more knights, thinning their numbers. His troops flooded the academy, forcing the knights back into their ships. The cadets were for the most part safe, though the Giants were still rampaging.

---

Niyra was floating, above her was the rippling surface of something that looked like water, and below her a bottomless abyss.

• Niyra - Where am I? What is this place?
• ??? - Does it matter, isn't this place just prefect, doesn't it just calm you so?
• Niyra - I guess it does, but wait that doesn't answer my question and who are you and how do you know my name?
• ??? - It doesn't matter, you don't need those answers, just loin us.
• Niyra - Yes it does matter, answer my questions.
• ??? - It doesn't matter,just... come... with... us...NOW!
• Niyra - No! I won't come with you!
• ??? - Such foolishness, you have no choice.

Niyra looked down in horror to see thousands of pale ghastly faces staring up at her, their arms reaching up to drag her down to the abyss.

• Niyra - Help! Somebody help me!

Suddenly a massive dark shadow moved through the abyss scattering the creatures, it rose up under Niyra carrying her towards the surface.

---

A strange glow began to form from within the creature.

• Makoro - What the...

The creature exploded, revealing Niyra standing there wreathed in silver flames and blue-green lightning bolts. The other watched stunned as her skin, flesh, and bones dissolved only to be replaced by a new skeleton, new flesh, and new skin. Silver scales replace fur, powerful twisted horns grew up from her skull, and bat-like wings grew from her back. Niyra stepped forth, having grown into the second stage of the Vanara life cycle, a Kaiser Vanara. She smiled viciously, her yellow eye glowing so bright it seemed to be burning within her skull. A Blood Knight charged Niyra, she ducked under his swing and brought her AIC Beam Sabers crashing into his face shattering his helmet, the Volver just stood there in shock.

• Niyra - Aww, you can't keep fighting now that your helmets gone, can you? Now your just in my way!

Niyra decapitated him, several spheres flew towards her, Niyra blasted them to pieces with several well aimed orbs of radioactive energy. This caught the attention of one of the giants which charged toward Niyra, her eye glowed even more brightly as she unleashed a precision beam that took its head right off. Upon seeing this the Blood Knights, spheres, and giants all began to retreat.

• Niyra - Yes, that's right, run, run away and don't come back.
• Ahred - Umm, Niyra that's good and all, but shouldn't you put some clothes?
• Niyra - Huh? Ahhh! Don't look at me, you perv!

She bolted off to the barracks.

• Ahred - You perv? *Laughs* Yeah, sure! Loco!

With Niyra gone, it was unusually silent for a while.

• G-Sker - Ahred, what's was that you said at the beginning of all this?
• Ahred - Your going to have to be more specific.
• G-Sker - The thing that made Niyra kick you in the crotch.
• Ahred - I have no idea what your talking about.
• G-Sker - Something about her being not that well endowed.
• Ahred - Okay...so I was wrong, happy?
• Niyra - Pervert!
• Ahred - Loco! And could you please stop calling me that?
• Niyra - Why?
• Ahred - Well...A lot of species call each other names playfully when they have a crush on one another. And I don't.
• Niyra - ...
• Ahred - ...
• G-Sker - ...Ok, this is akward.
• Halha - What was this?
• G-Sker - Well, you see...
• Halha - On second thought I don't wanna know.

Aftermath

After being overrun, the Blood Knights retreated along with their new Ugandalorian recruits. Biskin medics were on the scene shortly after, tending to the wounded. Niyra, now dressed, was sitting with her team and team Tyris at the medic station. Blaize had been patched up nicely, his shoulder was healing nicely. Timaal needed no real medical attention, as his wounds were fully healed by the time the medics arrived. Dione was laying on a bed, her gut was stitched back up.

• Iva - Wow...I can't believe we actually survived...
• Niyra - They ran at the sight of me. I guess I was just that scary.
• Timaal - Fear isn't an aspect that my people show Niyra. Hmph, but I do like the wings though, they look a lot like mine.
• Niyra - Thanks...but if they weren't scared, why did the group run from me?
• Timaal - They were low on reinforcements. Ziskin saw to that.
• Niyra - Ziskin? He sounds familiar...
• Makoro - He's the leader of the Biskin.
• G-Sker - That's right!
• Jallas - I'm surprised he actually...helped us.

Suddenly, Ziskin entered the medical tent. The group looked at him in shock. He towered over all of them, being slightly taller than Blaize. He walked in further and sat down in a chair.

• Ziskin - So you're this group I've heard so much about.
• Niyra - You've...heard of us?
• Ziskin - The cadets I've talked to spoke of your bravery. Though I'll give you all a warning. Especially you....Vanara.
• Niyra - Warning?
• Ziskin - I know the common tactics of the Volver. They were my enemies once. And I do know that those knights they sent were low ranking.
• Iva - Low ranking?
• Timaal - Yeah...in my society, a knight's rank reflects on his fighting ability. Those guys were no knights. Simply traitorous peasants in armor. Even my own blood, Tilaas, was not an official knight.
• Niyra - What? Are you saying that they sent low life grunts to take us out!?
• Ziskin - Exactly. Their leader must have underestimated this academy. If they had been actual knights...I believe that there would be a staggering loss of cadets here. In fact, most of you in this room would be dead.

The group looked at each other, then back to Ziskin.

• Ziskin - Well now, I really must be going. Me, the Antroths and the Soldarians are going to attack their hideout. Carry on with...whatever it was you were doing.
• Vonnes - Ziskin... sir...I -
• Ziskin - That will be all, boy.

Vonnes glared at him, but let it go. Ziskin glanced back at Vonnes briefly before leaving the tent.

---

Hydarax turned at the sound of approaching feet and saw Niyra standing behind him.

• Hydarax - Is there something you want to talk to me about?
• Niyra - Damn you must have good hearing I was trying to be stealthy.
• Hydarax - The day I let a cadet sneak up on me is the day Phase-Hunter starts making sense, though for someone who can be as flamboyant as you that wasn't bad.

It took Niyra awhile to realize that this was his equivalent of a complement.

• Nirya - Oh right, well there is something I wanted to talk to you about.
• Hydarax - Go on.

As Hydarax listen his eyes got wide.

• Hydarax - Are you sure?
• Niyra - Positive.
• Hydarax - Loudrak get everyone gathered up.
• Loudrak - EVERYONE OVER HERE!

Everyone of course heard and came with haste.

• Hydarax - Alright, I'm sure you have all noticed the disappearance of several students.

There was some muttering, but no one spoke up.

• Hydarax - And a brain dead idiot would've have noticed the monsters and Blood Knights that attacked us last night. However, we have someone who knows where these threats come from. Niyra, get up here.
• Niyra - Yes sir both me, Blaize, and Vonnes know that a mountain to the east is were we believe they are coming from.
• ??? - And how do you know that?
• Niyra - We had contact with those spheres that attack, and we got visions.

An older trainer stepped up.

• Trainer - And how do you know it's not a trap.
• Niyra - It probably is, but its the best lead we've got.
• Hydarax - Right, well Niyra and a group of her choosing...
• Trainer - Wait a minute! They're just cadets, shouldn't this be handled by more experienced veterans?
• Hydarax - No, you are all needed here, and I trust Niyra and companies' judgment. Any more objections?

There were none.

• Hydarax - Alright, Niyra who do you chose?
• Niyra - Well Makoro, Halha, Ahred, G-Sker, Jallas, and Team Tyris of course, anyone else as long as I approve of course.
• Jallas - Niyra, may I request my friends, Kogro, Hewpu and Nukaru be allowed to come along?
• Niyra - I know Kogro is good, but what of the other 2?
• Jallas - Hewpu is not only strong, but incredibly fast, and effective in combat, and Nukaru can build just about any weapons with the right amount of scrap.
• Niyra - Alright, they sound good. Let's do this.

---

Ziskin and his troops were packing up the medical gear. Hydarax approached him with a few teachers.

• Hydarax - Thank you Ziskin. I'm not sure what would have happened had you not shown up.
• Ziskin - Yes...you're welcome.
• Hydarax - We have reports of the Blood knights coming from the mountain. We could use some help.
• Ziskin - There are more important matters for me to attend to. I must reach Matukoris and speak with Pulporius and Si'daal about our attack on the Blood Knight headquarters.
• Hydarax - Ah...right. So, about Vonnes...
• Ziskin - The boy? What about him?
• Hydarax - I'm not sure if you know this but his energy is...quite dark. How did he acquire such Essence? And why even come to our aid... Isn't your Homeworld a long way from here? If anything Matukoris is much closer -
• Ziskin - Our nations aren't allied, therefore that is information you are not entitled to. Do you have anymore questions?
• Hydarax - Not if you're going to shoot them down when I ask.
• Ziskin - Good. I'm off then.

Ziskin entered his ship and took off, the rest of the Biskin fleet followed. Hydarax swore under his breath and walked back over to the cadets.