Drakenguard [ IC / Started / Not Accepting ]

[.:Blu:.]

OOC: http://forum.yugiohcardmaker.net/topic/305479-drakenguard-ooc-not-started-not-accepting/

 

Drakenguard
CHAPTER 1: WALLGUARD

 

[spoiler=Chapter 1 Synopsis]Shiki is a young dragon who knows nothing of the world above his own; his elder broodmate, Fafnir, believes that dragons are the rightful rulers of that very same world. Having been given a vital mission by the Draken-King, the two dragon brothers set off towards their destination: the human capital, Atland. There, they are mistaken to be new recruits of the Wallguard which leads to an encounter with a human girl who has a love for dragons. Now to successfully carry out their mission, Shiki and Fafnir must fight alongside the humans in order to gain their trust. Thus the story of two dragon brothers living amongst the enemy begins![/spoiler]



The hastened, rhythmic pounding of iron-sole footwear reverberated through a cavernous passage; the cavern was barely lit by unusual plants possessing lamp-like bulbs. The luminescence emitted by these plants shone like fire in that they would flicker often and never kept a steady stream of illumination; the shadows cast by these plants on the cavern's rocky walls made them appear much more intimidating than they really are. At least the atmosphere felt authentically terrifying. However, it isn't the plants' shadows that is of any concern; no, there was another shadow - a larger shadow. To who - or what - the shadow belonged was a mystery for a brief moment as the respective figure moved so fast that it was difficult to discern its appearance.

Just why is the figure running? The answer could be found at the end of the tunnel: a light. It was simply a light that had attracted the figure - a light at the end of the tunnel. Seeing this light, the figure smiled; showing what appears to be a pair of overly-enlarged canines. Surely no human possesses such a fearsome pair so just what kind of creature is this figure? In any case, the enigmatic figure began to speed up when it noticed the close proximity between it and the light at the tunnel's end. As the figure got closer, the light source grew in size suggesting that the figure was nearing an exit or, in this case, an entrance. Bursting out into the open world was a young man with strange blue hair and golden eyes; an excited expression framed his face.

"Yeah, I made it! This is the world above ground!" the young man gloriously exclaimed as if it was meant for everyone in the world to hear.
 

A magnificent sight lies before his very eyes! The blue expanse known as the "sky" is in his reach!

Although he may appear human, this young man is, in fact, a dragon - yes, an actual, living dragon. Believed to have been extinct for over two centuries as a result of the Draken-Hume War, dragons have actually sought shelter underneath the surface of Gaia; slowly rebuilding their population and strength in preparation for an assault on the human race. This particular dragon is named Shiki - a small dragon, indeed, but he has the blood of Draken-King Deidreig flowing through his veins. The same goes for his elder broodmate, Fafnir, or as a human would call him, Shiki's older brother. Nearly a day ago, the two dragon brothers were summoned by Deidreig, himself, and were given a mission of the utmost importance: invade the human capital, seek out the source of the humans' power and destroy it.

Only then will dragons have the opportunity to launch a surprise attack on the human race with their ultimate goal being to eliminate every single human from existence; just like what the humans attempted to accomplish during the Draken-Hume War. With such a vital task residing on their shoulders, Shiki and Fafnir cannot afford to fail their own race. And now, Shiki and Fafnir have finally managed to arrive at the surface world. Shiki stared at the expanse of blue sky with overflowing amazement in his eyes; awing at its splendor. One day, Shiki will be flying in that very sky - it's a promise he made to himself. As he continued to gaze, no words were let out of his mouth despite it being wide open. Suddenly, Shiki's pupils began to emit smoke.

"GAH!" Shiki wailed painfully as he fell onto the grassy ground on his back; he then began to roll around wildly as his hands covered his eyes. "My eyes! They're on fire! I'm going blind!" Shiki howled.

"Shiki, you shouldn't stare directly into the sun like that." a mature, masculine voice emanated from the cavern. Appearing at the cavern's entrance were three new figures: a tall, young man with blue hair similar to Shiki and following behind him were two dragons. One of the dragons is a pale shade of yellowish-brown with rugged scales while the other is red with smoother scales. The one that had warned Shiki about the dangers of peering into the sun was the much older, brown dragon. These two dragons are actually Shiki and Fafnir's guide to the surface world and they work directly for Deidreig. Needless to say, the older-looking young man is Shiki's broodmate, Fafnir, who is unmistakably much wiser about the surface world than his younger sibling.

Looking back at the three with tears in his eyes, Shiki stood up off the ground. "So that giant fireball is the 'sun', huh? Who knew it was so dangerous." Shiki said as he wiped away his tears and looked back up into the sky; this time around, he covered the sun with one of his hands. "It's brighter than all of the lantern plants growing underneath the surface combined." Shiki commented.

"It was once ours too, that is, until those damn humans forced us to went into hiding underground." the red dragon cursed.

"Once we get rid of all the humans, the 'sky' and the 'sun' will be ours once again!" Shiki proudly exclaimed.

"That's correct. Now, come, I have something to give to the two of you." the brown dragon called Shiki over. "Here Fafnir, you should hold onto this." the same dragon continued as he handed Fafnir an old, slightly-torn map. "That there is a map of this region of Gaia. It will lead you to Atland. Although it's about a century old, it should still be fairly accurate." the brown dragon explained. "Our work here is done. It's entirely up to you two now. Make us proud to have been your mentors." the brown dragon stated.

"We will. I promise you." Shiki nodded. After the goodbyes were said, the two elder dragons retreated back into the safety of the dark cavern to return to Drakehaven - the capital of dragons. Shiki looked to his older brother in hopes that he would lead the way. After all, he was one of the few dragons of the brood that was taught how to read a map. "So, which direction are we heading, Fafnir?" Shiki asked curiously. After that, the two set off on their way.

[Atland; Afternoon]

Following the path appointed by the map to a T, by early afternoon, the two brothers have finally arrived at their destination: the human capital of Atland. Here they would carry out their extremely important mission but, first, an undesirable sight caught their eyes. A massive crowd of humans can be seen stretched around a gigantic wall; one that is approximately seventy-feet tall - a monumental feat of human engineering. Shiki's eyes widened seeing all the humans crowded up against the colossal wall; it was somewhat of a fearful sight for the young dragon. "F-F-Fafnir, look at all of those humans...! Just what are they doing gathering in one place like that!?" Shiki asked; hoping that his older brother would have an answer although that is doubtful seeing as how they've barely arrived at the surface world.

"Oh, hey there. Are you two here to join the Wallguard?" a young man's voice emanated from besides Fafnir.

Upon hearing the voice, Shiki and Fafnir looked to their right only to have their first encounter with a human. This human is a young man with a shaved head and is wearing glasses; he was a bit shorter than Fafnir. "Hu-hu-hu-HUMAN!" Shiki fearfully exclaimed but quickly covered his mouth with his hands.

"Umm, what was that?" the glasses-wearing, young man asked.

"(Oh crap, I almost got myself and Fafnir into some serious trouble. I can't let this human become suspicious.)" Shiki nervously thought before putting his hands behind his back. "Oh, that was nothing at all hahaha! We're just a couple of humans making our way to Atland!" Shiki explained all the while sweating profusely. After Fafnir successfully managed to calm Shiki down, the topic of the "Wallguard" was brought up once again by the glasses-wearing human.

"Oh, so you guys aren't here to join the Wallguard? That's too bad. You two look capable of entering the ranks, well, the tall one anyway." the young man said, pointing to Fafnir. That little comment suddenly caused Shiki to shrink into a corner, moping. "W-Was it something I said?" the human asked with a sweat drop on his head.

Suddenly, an older man wearing expensive-looking armor arrived next to the three on a white steed; he had an intimidating presence about him that seems to command authority. "What the hell are you three doing just standing here!? The recruitment line isn't going to get any smaller so start hauling your asses over there! The Wallguard does not have patience for indecisive rookies!" the man angrily bellowed.

"B-But we're not here to join the Wall-" Shiki's attempt at a response only garnered a more furious backlash from the intimidating man.

"No more excuses! Get going, lasses!" the man slammed the bottom of his giant spear into the ground and charged at the three of them with his heavily-muscled stallion.

"If you're looking for easy access into the capital plus a good-paying job and military bonuses, I suggest you join the Wallguard!" the glasses-wearing human told Shiki and Fafnir as he made a mad dash for the recruitment line.

"(Military...? That may be our chance to find the humans' power source!)" Shiki wondered before looking to his older brother to see if he had the same thought. Almost immediately after, the horse slammed its head into Shiki's back and launched him into the Wallguard recruitment line.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Fafnir had scanned the map with scrutiny, all the while petting Shiki's human hair as he began to picture what things were like. He would make sure this sky and sun belonged to the true lords of the land, but patience was necessary for now. Still, he knew he couldn't keep Shiki idle for too long, for the little runt was far too curious to be safe. After all, who'd stare directly at the sun like that. As such, he informed his brother that they would be travelling east. It was then when Fafnir reminded Shiki of a way to never get lost - as the Sun rose up in the east, and would set in the west, he could find his bearings just as their predecessors had done so many years ago.

 

Upon the arrival to Atland, Fafnir looked around the place. It was a very proud and prominent human city if he hadn't seen one before. He could see them all, so happily walking in daylight, giving no value to the blessings they had - throwing foods to the floor and garbage as well, or speaking loudly and disrupting the serenity of nature. The large walls of Atland themselves just made Fafnir's stomach curl. These humans needed such structures to keep themselves safe from danger. They truly had no place here in this world. Likely it was envy that coursed through Fafnir's veins right now, but it was Shiki who broke him from his contemplation on the matter.

 

Seeing the line-up had Shiki lost for words. He asked his brother what they were doing, to which Fafnir replied "Assembly of some kind, brother. Like we did when training among our kin. I can assume that based upon their apparel..." Fafnir then winced his eyes to perceive the details of the individuals and what they were wearing. "...yes...yes, they seem like what would be called the 'military' of this city, I assume." Shortly after a shaven individual caught the dragons' eyes, whom asked them if the wished to join the Wallguard. Shiki began to blow their cover, to which Fafnir stuffed Shiki's hands over and in his mouth. The man asked about it, to which Fafnir replied with a shrug: "We're new to this city, Atland. He is excited by the large structures and masses of people."

 

Fafnir calmed Shiki down by patting him on the back, and a firm squeeze on his shoulder, nothing that'd hurt him though, more so letting him know that his broodmate had his back covered. The topic of the Wallguard was reignited, to which Fafnir was elected to be a candidate of. Fafnir watched Shiki sulk, to which he lifted him up by the collar of his shirt and stood him upright next to him, dusting off his shoulders. Of course, knowing this would be to no avail what with the three being barked into cue, Fafnir simply followed the instruction of the human upon a steed. 'Hmm...it seems that these humans enjoy dominion over lesser creatures and treat them as mounts, to be a symbol of authority' Fafnir analysed.

 

Now stood in the recruitment line, Fafnir had picked up a bag. Fafnir gave Shiki a smirk, knowing he'd remember it - a while before their departure, Fafnir knew that they would need some form of means to exchange. Otherwise they would get nowhere. As such, Fafnir had himself, Shiki, and other broodmates chip in by chipping off some of their scales. Pure Dragonscale was incredibly rare, he figured they'd be able to use them. Of course, plucking dragonscale was more than a painful excersize. Bearing in mind what Shiki was like now, imagine how fidgety and eccentric he was to this painful plucking? Anyway, Fafnir simply stood behind Shiki, planting the bag in his hands. "Keep an eye on that, runt." He teased. "We may be closer to our aspiration than we initially realized." Fafnir knew Shiki would understand what he meant, but of course this could simply be seen as prospecting soldiers.

[Enrise]

Today felt different for Zena. Earlier she managed to finish the entirety of her breakfast before going on duty. She made her early morning rounds around the Wall with her fellow guards. After her rounds were completed and the guard was to be shifted, she had to go to with some of the newbies to help tend to some of the standard issued weapons. She sort of enjoyed cleaning and repairing weapons, especially when they were at their best performance afterwards, giving the nice whoosh sound that can also sound like a small breath of a whisper. What's more, they finished a bit earlier then they original would have, so she suspected that the other guards took better care of their weapons; she gave them credit for that at least. So when her duties were finished, she would found a nice spot outside on the Wall that had the perfect amount of shade during this hour, where she can intake some reading on one of those comfortably hard wooden chairs. When she opened the book, she glanced over at the distance, and realized why today was so unique, so different. Today was the day where new recruits would be tested to prove their worth for their position in the Wallguard. She could easily scrutinize the recruits, and some of them were just that terribly bad for the position that you could look at them and tell. Of course, you would have that occasional one that outshines the rest of the line. Not like the line would shine anyways. Of course, Zena could only reminisce the few times where there were good recruits. It was a shame some of them either left from the high demand of standards, or died because they did not meet the standards on the battlefield.

 

Watching the new recruits getting ready, Zena periodically skimmed through the pages of her book, which was about defensive battle tactics. Then it was time that the recruitment process was about to officially commence, to judge who has the right of entry to the Wallguard, and who does not. Maybe she would go ahead and focus her attention on the recruits from her spot, while keeping her distance. Don't want the recruits being tested by her, she'd make them quit after the first recruit if she tried, or so they'd have you believe. Then one of the recruitment officers started to pace themselves in front of the line, while shouting to what Zena could only believe was inaudible from her spot. Then the officer stopped, and met eyes with Zena. "Oh, you've got to be-..." The officer called out Zena's name, much to her dismay. Voluntarily, she got up from the wooden chair, closed the book and keeping her hold on it, and walked to the officer. "Yes, what is it?"

 

"I'd appreciate it if you'd call me officer."

"Very well, officer. What do you need me for?"

"Humph. Well, as you see, we have new recruits. I want you to show them our standards. Go ahead. Pick one."

 

Zena knew exactly what he was talking about. The standards of being a Wallguard were pretty high, which can be an understatement for some. A lot struggled to get in, but some got in fairly easy. Looking down the line of the recruits, from the first sub-par looking soldier to the last two newcomers at the end, whom seemed fairly out of place. Perhaps they weren't from around here, which was a though Zena had provoke, among others, or that they were nobility and their clothing was the latest fashion, or some nonsense like that. Returning her gaze back to the first, she looked behind her to find a place she can put her book down - much to her luck, there was a crate standing there - and set it down with her chakram and her Ulfberht blade. Nearby there was a rack full of standard quality blades for those who don't have the luxury of affording their own weapon. Walking to the weapon rack, grabbing two blades at random, and returning to her initial position, she halted, and looked at a fairly haughty character, who gave a smug look towards Zena. He was fairly toned, probably thinks high of himself. "You! Step forward!"

 

"Oho, looks like the girl wants me to get at her first! I thank the gods for this opportunity."

"What division are planning to join, recruit?"

"The Ground Troops, fighting my enemies up front, close and personal. I want them to know fear when I strike them down."

"Alright, boy, settle down. Here, and take your best shot."

 

Zena mocked, tossing him the blade which he caught, ready for him to make the first move. The recruit dashed straight at Zena with the blade carelessly up in the air, ready to chop up some dead meat. When he brought his blade down, Zena dodged it, and when he hit the ground on accident, she planted her foot on it, so the recruit couldn't move the blade. Hitting him in the face with the pommel of her sword with enough force to throw him off balance, releasing his grip on his blade. When he was stumbling backwards, Zena kicked his left knee, making him tumble to the ground and fall flat on his backside. She sped towards him, stomped on his chest, and thrust the sword next to his head. Speechless and scared, he couldn't move and only stared at Zena's eyes. She leaned forward, her hair draping her face from the other gazes around them, and looked at the recruit she had made a fool of.

 

"Listen, and listen good. The Wallguard doesn't need some egotistical brat who never picked up a blade in his life except kitchen knives. You want to strike fear into others, join the circus. You'd make an excellent clown scaring the children. Now. Get lost." She took the sword out of the ground, and took her foot off of him. Crawling backwards, he got up and ran away from the recruitment line. "Typical brats. Bodies of gods and they're as skilled as an infant."

[a bad post]

At the very end of the recruitment line a young girl sat on a piece of solidified light, engrossed in the book she was reading. This girl, Daphne, seemed to look up every so often when she heard the recruitment officer speak, just in case it was important. 

 

"Hmph, does the little princess think herself to important to stand on the ground the rest of stand on," A young man with dirty blonde hair sauntered over, going ahead of her in line despite the fact that he had arrived after her. Daphne made no move to stop him. 

 

"No, I have been standing here for hours and my feet had begun to hurt," Daphne looked up recognizing the boy as a mage from her academy, " I see no reason why one should subject themselves to pain when there is no need." 

 

"Ha, can't handle a little pain!?" The mage replied smugly leaning in close to Daphne's face sneering maliciously. 

 

"No its just like said before, I don't feel the need to," Daphne replied in a monotone keeping a blank stare trying desperately to keep calm and not shrink make into her timid self, despite how uncomfortable the other mage was making her feel. 

 

"I'm tired of your damn attitude, and your blank stare is annoying to!" Breaking into an unexpected rage he picked Daphne up from her seat, causing her book to fall from her hand, and shoved her against the wall, "you should learn to respect your superiors... if you didn't have that damn book you wouldn't be so great. So I'll do everyone a favor and take it off your hands, hehehe." Releasing Daphne he picked up the book she had been reading, a special book. One that belonged to her great ancestor; the Key of Titania. 

 

"H-hey!" Springing up Daphne grabbed for it, but the mage held it high above his head teasing her as she jumped for it, knowing she wouldn't try to hurt him."S-stop it! Please! That book is very special to me, stop!"

 

"Sorry, those who don't deserve power can't have it. I guess I'll just be-" the young man was stopped short as one of the Wallguard walked by giving a deep cough and glare his way. "Hmph, here!" Shoving the book against Daphne before stalking off. 

 

Daphne breathed out a sigh before creating another light platform for her to sit on, and was about to continue reading when her attention was drawn to the shouting of a recruitment officer who was yelling at three young man. After their talking to Daphne observed them as they approached the end of the line and for a minute longer when they reached the place next to her at the end before returning to her book. 

 

Again though her attention was drawn up one of the recruitment officers, this time a woman, who sparred briefly with an arrogant youth before sending him home for incompetence. 

 

"My, how unpleasant. I hope we all don't have to spar to prove our worth."

[Hotaru987]

"Wow there sure are a lot of people here wanting to be a Wallguard." Vivien looked around the large crowd she found herself right in the middle of. She had hoped to come early enough to be the first few here, but apparently others had the same thought in mind and she ended up being somewhere in the middle, but closer towards the back of the group. She sighed, apologizing when she bumped into someone. "I wonder how long we'll be standing here." Taking yet another glance around she noticed a few things going on behind her. The first thing was a commotion. She couldn't exactly see but some of those around her were talking. Apparently something was going on towards the very back of the group, but most weren't too interested and the topic was quickly forgotten. 

 

The next was what looked like a little girl, who was much closer to her position. She was being harassed by another guy, one much bigger than herself. "Well that isn't very nice." Vivien was about to move to help her but it was settled by one of the guards that passed by. Good thing. Her fighting on her first day wouldn't have made the best impressions. Besides, she wanted to be able to follow in her family's footsteps of becoming part of the Wallguard, and possibly being kicked out over a fight didn't intrigue her one bit.

 

The third thing that caught her attention was another woman, this one looked much more experience than the earlier girl. Obviously a fighter, and not one to be messed with. She called one of the recruited up, the guy flashing about arrogantly only to be easily defeated and sent home humiliated. It looked like it was some sort of test. Vivien hoped that this wasn't something all of them had to go through. "Hmph, if Kusna could do it then I should be able to get through this no problem. I'll definitely become a Wallguard." She grinned looking at her fist, "No matter what, so let's get this thing on the roar already."

[.:Blu:.]

After having been launched violently into the line of possible Wallguard recruits by the officer's steed, Shiki found himself lying on the dirt ground, semi-unconscious. The young dragon's - dramatic - entrance unfortunately drew attention to himself as the recruits in the very back of the line encircled Shiki and stared quietly at him; forming rude and insulting opinions about him as they watched for his next action. "Ugh..." Shiki moaned as he attempted to regain his composure. Finally managing to get back up onto his feet and dusting himself off, a scowl immediately formed on his face. "(What the hell was that for? These humans are getting more and more vicious by the second. I better be even more careful from now on or I'll be dead by tomorrow.)" Shiki thought.

Turning around, Shiki noticed that he was surrounded by the enemy; all of them seemed to be staring at him with malicious thoughts in mind which caused a nervous sweat drop to form on his head. Soon, paranoia began to kick in as Shiki began to imagine the humans whispering amongst each other; saying things such as, "Did you see that? What a clumsy fool," "No human is that clumsy. Maybe he's not human," and "Let's rip that fake skin off of him and expose his true identity!" Needless to say, Shiki came close to having a nervous breakdown. Suddenly, a hand came down onto his right shoulder which caused Shiki to jolt. Turning his head back, Shiki saw the glasses-wearing human from before. "Hey, are you alright there, little buddy?" the human asked.

Although his voice hinted at genuine concern, Shiki knew better than to trust the words of a human and proceeded to shrug the human's hand off of his shoulder. "I-I'm fine. Just don't touch me." Shiki warned before he stormed off to reunite with Fafnir. Before he reached Fafnir, Shiki turned back with the same scowl as before. "And stop referring to me as 'little' or 'short' or any other variations of the term!" Shiki exclaimed. A little bit later, Shiki found himself standing in line; in front of his brother. Just then, Fafnir gave Shiki a smirk which reminded the younger dragon of an uncomfortable - and slightly painful - experience prior to heading out towards Atland; Shiki shuddered at the memory. Following that, Fafnir placed a bag into Shiki's hands and instructed him to keep watch of it before commenting that their goal may be reached earlier than previously figured.

"I hope so... I want to get far away from this city as soon as possible." Shiki pouted.

Not long after, the "annoying", glasses-wearing human walked up to the two dragons with a friendly - and "stupid-looking" - smile on his face. "Whaddaya want now?" Shiki asked with clear annoyance in his voice.

The hostile response from Shiki caused a sweat drop to form on the human's head. "Look, we're all on the same boat here. There's no need for hostility. Anyways, I just thought I'd introduce myself since I didn't had a chance to before. My name's Bernard; nice to meet ya." the human stated.

"(It would be problematic if I don't respond to this human's gesture; he might even begin to suspect something of me.)" Shiki thought before turning around to face Bernard. "I'm Shiki and this here is Fafnir. He's my br-" Shiki suddenly paused as he forgotten what broodmates are called in human society. "(Crap, I forgot what Khilka told me!)" Shiki thought. "Umm, he's my bro- broo-" Shiki nervously stalled.

"Brother?" Bernard suggested.

"Y-Yeah! That's it! He's my brother! My non-suspicious, human brother." Shiki responded; raising a bit of confusion in Bernard.

Almost an hour later, every recruit in line had finally managed to have their personal information collected including Shiki and Fafnir. For obvious reasons, Fafnir took care of the paperwork seeing as how Shiki was extremely on edge about pretty much everything at the moment. With the recruits' information collected, a few Wallguards escorted the group of about sixty recruit candidates to the far-east side of the Wall. There, a pair of massive gate doors were opened to allow the recruits inside the Wallguard's grounds - this is where Wallguards sleep, eat, train, work and do just about everything else they would do in a normal setting except it was much grittier. The area where Wallguards go to train is a piece of dirt land without a single sign of vegetation. It's quite unfortunate seeing as how the dirt was quite rich and deep in color.

Tree trunks had been fashioned into long benches and laid out neatly for the recruits to sit on; there are six of them - one bench for about ten people. A couple of meters in front of the benches is an execution platform; retired for the day to be used as a speaking platform. "Alright recruits, take a seat and keep quiet." one Wallguard ordered. Shiki and Fafnir quickly found space and sat down; Bernard proceeded to join the two them right after they took their seats much to Shiki's annoyance. "(This human won't leave us alone. He might be onto us)" Shiki thought. "Alright, settle down, all of you!" another Wallguard ordered. Just then, the officer from when Shiki and Fafnir first arrived in Atland arrived at the training grounds and took his place on the platform.

"I am Officer Mervas Gungner but all of you can simply call me 'Sir' from now on, do I make myself clear!?" the officer asked to which a resounding "Yes Sir," was the answer. "Now then, all of you maidens have come here for one thing: to join the Wallguard and to serve your people and your king. An admirable goal indeed. However, let's get one thing straight. The lot of you are useless, pathetic cowards who haven't thought a single thing through before getting here. You've probably never picked up so much as a dagger let alone a real weapon. Hell, I bet most of you won't even make it to the Tuesday of next week-" before Officer Gungner could continue to ramble on any further, a Wallguard walked up onto the platform and whispered to him to stop before walking back down the platform.

Gungner then cleared his throat. "In any case, today we'll be weeding out the weak from the strong to see who really has what it takes to be a Wallguard. And here's your first test." As Mervas said that, a Wallguard pushed a contraption on a smaller platform onto the stage. The contraption consists of two long pieces of wood nailed onto a board and in between the two pieces of wood is a chain tightly wound near the top of each piece of wood. Another chain hangs down from the middle of the first chain and is connected to a simple log. The whole contraption confused a lot of the new recruits. Just what is the test requiring such an unusual contraption? "This log here will decide the recruits that will move onto the next series of tests. Zena, you will be showing these recruits just what this test is about!" Gungner ordered.

Immediately after, a young, strong-looking woman made her way onto the stage; she looked capable of taking down a giant goblin in battle and then some. "Zena here is one of the newly-recruited rising stars in the Wallguard. She passed this test on her first attempt which is more than I can say for most of you lasses. The goal here is simple: split the log in half with either a weapon or magic in three attempts or less. Destroying the log completely is out of the question. It must be bifurcated. If you can't do it in three tries, your recruitment process is over and you can go back home to your lovely mother and her freshly-baked pies. It may look like an easy task but it will probably get rid of most of you by the time the test is over. Now, Zena." Gungner stated.

But before Zena could demonstrate the test, a snobby-looking recruit interrupted. "Sir, that's not fair. She can't use her own sword for this." the recruit complained.

"Humph, all the better. You, give your sword to her." Gungner ordered to which a Wallguard threw his standard-issued sword to Zena. "Continue, soldier." Gungner ordered Zena. After impressively displaying her swordsmanship skills on the log, a Wallguard walked on stage and fastened a new log to the chain. "You in the front with the big mouth." Gungner called out.

"M-Me, Sir?" the snobby-looking recruit from before responded.

"Yes, you. You're lucky contestant number one. Now get up here and prove yourself to the other recruits." Gungner ordered.

Complying with the order he was given, the recruit made his way onto stage. "Weapon or magic, lass?" Gungner asked.

"Weapon, Sir. A sword." the recruit answered to which a Wallguard gave him a standard-issued sword.

"Go on." Gungner commanded.

"This'll be easy. After all, it's just a stupid log." As he finished his sentence, the recruit took a hard swing at the log with his sword but completely missed it by a mile; his mistake and arrogance caused the audience to laugh.

"That's your first strike; you've got two more and you better make 'em count." Gungner insultingly reminded.

"Arrg, damn log!" Once again, the recruit took a hard swing with his sword, however, this time, he managed to successfully hit the log. Unfortunately, the sword barely made a dent in the log and, in fact, actually became stuck on the log as it swung back and forth. "Damn it!" the recruit cursed before he sloppily removed the sword from the log. In his last attempt, the recruit swung his sword so hard that it actually flew out of his hands and landed onto the dirt ground several feet away from the stage. Needless to say, the recruit was shocked seeing the result of the last swing. "N-No way...!" the recruit uttered with wide eyes and an even wider mouth.

"Well, looks like you didn't make the cut, recruit, and I mean that quite literally. Zena, I want you to personally escort him out and make sure that he doesn't come back begging. Then, come back here on the double." Gungner ordered with a satisfied smirk present on his grizzled face.

"W-What!? You can't do this to me! My father is a well-respected merchant in the next town! He'll hear about this; the King will hear about this!" the recruit shouted before he was escorted off the premise.

"And there you have it. The prime example of someone unfit to be a Wallguard. Now, the rest of you. I don't care who goes next but I want to see every single one of you attempt this test. If you think you'll fail miserably, go home now. Those of you who are skillful enough to split this log in two, you'll be moving on." Gungner stated.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Watching the display ahead had Fafnir smirked. He watched as the commander spoke with derogative regard, to which he pondered just how well he would react under pressure, to which he assumed indeed that this 'Sir' would not perform quite as well as he would hope. Deidreig was a true leader, he knew how to touch the hearts of his flight and fellow dragonflights. Comparing their Draconic Lord to this commander, Fafnir really didn't appreciate just how magnificent Deidreig was. Indeed, he could see each and every word of their king be revealed in this one man amongst others, but he was certainly not the only being whom was of this lesser breed - in fact, Fafnir knew not one of these humans could take on his kin one on one.

 

Fafnir was quite pissed with Bernard pursuing Shiki and himself. If Shiki was worried about him catching on to their plot, imagine how furious Fafnir was? Of course, no amount of rage that Fafnir's knowing had met had ever shaken against his patience, but that did not mean he yielded no spite for the individual. Not only did he seem to be clinging to the two broodmates, there was an inkling about that exposed him as a weakling among the rest. Perhaps he needed the company? How pathetic. If one could not fight for themselves on their own, then how could they truly become strong?

 

Again, Fafnir's contemplation was digressing the main issue. Watching the scene unfold, he observed Zena's work on the log. Following this, indeed, was the failed attempt of the boy yielding a sword. It seemed they were able to use either weapon or magic to render the log into two pieces. Of course, while Zena did so with ease much to her rising star nature, the arrogant imbecile failed tragically. Fafnir was not among those who laughed, but after a while hummed with humour, whispering to Shiki. "These humans seem to worship strength as things stand. How noble - I do hope these challenges become more...worthy, as things develop."

 

Fafnir them informed Shiki of their strategy to deal with this challenge: "I am not sure how well you can use your shape-shifting abilities, but wood yields nothing to Dragonscale. However, we cannot blow our cover - to bifurcate that log, I am going to use a knifehand chop against the log, imbuing my attack with lightning. I will also morph the flesh of my hand into dragonscale during the flash of light, so as to disguise the shift. However, I will not make my lightning visible, only concentrate it enough to deceive their eyes. I advise you do the same. Our bodies are weapons, we need nothing more to use than them. We'll make them think we are stronger than their best soldier armed to the teeth when we're merely using our bodies."

 

As such, when it had came to Fafnir's turn, he made his way patiently and orderly to the testing tool, the device determining who was able-bodied to enter the Wallguard. After informing of his use of neither magic nor weapon, Fafnir moved past Gungner and looked to the log, before a glance to Shiki, ready to demonstrate his tactic. As such, lifting his arm up, he took a deep breath, before letting out a battle-cry and dropping his hand down like a powerful axe - as planned, within the last few seconds of touching the log, Fafnir shifted his skin and used lightning to form an invisible blade of pure energy. As such, his hand chopped through the log swiftly, with little resistance save the two exposed halves splintering quite harshly. After this, he nodded to Gungner and patiently awaited evaluation, shooting a glance to Shiki - Fafnir knew his broodmate would do nothing other than succeed.

[Hotaru987]

After a grueling hour of everyone getting their information taken, things were finally beginning to move. Some of the officers took a group of about 60 towards the far-east wing of the wall, where they were taken to a large open door which were where the accepted recruits would be living. Before that they were all told to sit on some benches fashioned out of trees. Vivien took notice of how rich the soil was. Her mother would find it a shame for this not to be used as a garden, and Vivien was inclined to agree. In the middle of the area was an execution platform, but a man walked onto it so it must be doubling as a speaker platform today. Anyway, Vivien took a seat on the bench to right of Shiki and Fafnir's bench, sitting on the edge as she listened to Officer Grungner began.

 

Vivien watched in confusion as the strange device was brought onto the stage, and was told that their test would be to cut a piece of wood. Just what was so hard about splitting a log in two? What was this test supposed to prove? That you can chop wood? Whatever this was supposed to prove it must have been important, and if the test was going to be this easy then that just meant that she would get in just that much easier. Before they would start Officer Gungner called one of the other officers up onto the stage for a demonstration. It was the same girl that was fighting earlier. She really was one intimidating figure. Vivien would be just fine if she didn't have to fight her any time soon. Apparently the girl was one of the rising stars of the Wallguards named Zena and able to conquer this trial on her first try. Before Zena could demonstrate the test, another arrogant recruit shouted that she shouldn't use her own sword, to which Gungner told him to give Zena his own sword.

 

Which of course didn't matter, as Zena effortlessly split the log in two. "The sword you use doesn't matter, but the skill of the sword wielder does. Even an idiot should know that." Someone who didn't understand that shouldn't even pick up a weapon. The same guy was then chosen to go first. He had three tries to break the log in two. His first try was a complete failure as he missed the log. Vivien couldn't help but laugh. It served him right. His second attempt faired a bit better. He managed to hit the log but it wasn't a clean cut. It accidentally got stuck not even half way through. By now the man was brimming with anger and on his last swing he accidentally let go of the sword and it flew off to the side.

 

"That doesn't look so hard." Vivien mumbled as she watched the man be escorted away by Zena personally. Gungner then open the floor to the next recruit. From her left one of the guys stood up, and walked to the platform. He looked pretty arrogant, but unlike the first guy Vivien got the feeling that he had the skills to back it up. The guy readied himself to attempt the trial and strangely enough he didn't reach for a weapon. There was a flash of light, and Vivien had to look away due to the intensity. When it was over the log was split in two. 'Must have been some type of magic...That was pretty cool.' After Gungner gave his evaluation the man left the stage. Completely confident that she wasn't going to fail, Vivien stood up intending to make a good first impression. "I'll go next." She walked up to the platform, as they finished replacing the log. "I'm Vivien Arkon, and I'll be using a sword." She faced her current challenge and drew her sword twirling it idly in her left hand. There was a purple gem sitting in a small compartment where the guard and sword base met, and it shined faintly when the sword was drawn. She was determinate to get this done on her first try. She got ready and took her first swing. Unfortunately it eneded up short. Much like the first recruit's second attempt she didn't cut through cleanly. Given was surprised. It was just a simple log. It wasn't any stinger than any other log but because there wasn't anything providing support behind the log it would require more speed than anything else.

 

She didn't let her failed attempt mess with her head, and though she would have preferred nailing it on the first try she prepared for her second try. This time she claimed her success, splitting the log in two. With a grin she threw her fist in the air, "Hell yeah! Take that ya stupid log! Thought you was gonna make me look like an idiot didn't you, well I showed you!" Unaware to Vivien she was doing a fine job of that on her own. "Wallguards here I come!" Well...So much for a good first impression.

[a bad post]

While Daphne only half payed attention to the conversation behind her, she could giggle softly when the blue-haired boy didn't know how to say brother. Maybe he was foreign... or just not very bright, the thought made Daphne giggle again as she moved up in line.

 

Once she had had her personal information, and that of the rest of the recruits, was collected their group was escorted to a gigantic gate on the east side of the wall, which upon opening revealed the training ground of the Wallguard. Inside the large arena was an execution platform, which made Daphne shudder. As people found their benches she was happy to able find one alone. 

 

Moments later an intimidating man, who introduced himself as Officer Mervas Grunger, and began telling them how they would be choosing who got in and who didn't, having a young woman demonstrate -  the same one who had bested that recruit earlier, before another foolish young man called out yelling something about using her own weapon. Even after she was issued the standard issue sword the woman, who had been introduced as Zena, easily bifurcated the log with a single stroke. 

 

Next the boy with the big mouth was called up, much to his own dismay, and failed pathetically missing the log on his first try, hitting on his second, but only going half way through and on his third the sword flew out of his hand. Daphne only breathed out a sigh as he was guided off stage by Zena, leaving in a very undignified manner... then again should she really have expected him to even attempt to leave with little pride he had left. 

 

As she watched people go up Daphne saw a few recruits that were quite noticeable. The first was an intimidating young man who easily split he log in two with some sort of magic... though Daphne couldn't place it... in fact she'd never seen anything like it before. The second was a girl who made Daphne giggle due to her very eccentric outburst yelling at the log after she had chopped in two. 

 

Eventually Daphne found herself going up to the execution platform, one of the last ones left to go. 

 

"Magic or weapon?" One of the officer asked looking at her odd, as though he couldn't believe she was here.

 

"M-m-magic," Daphne stuttered fumbling with her spellbook momentarily, and noticed some recruits and officers snickering. Taking a deep breath Daphne began to focus her concentration on the spell she was going to perform. Due to Megidoloan's destructive nature she took care to severely weaken it and when was ready flung her arms down causing her grimoire to fall the floor as well as the spell to come streaking towards the log cutting straight through it and even putting a small hole in the platform. 

 

"U-u-uh I-I'm so sorry," Daphne was already beginning to back away, "I'll... just go... umm... okay." Bowing quickly she quickly ran off the stage to join the other passing recruits. 

[.:Blu:.]

There was no mistaking it: humans are indeed strong - at least that was what Shiki had thought right after the young woman named Zena had demonstrated her prowess with a sword on the log. The ferocity and power behind that single slash managed to unnerve Shiki quite a bit; Fafnir, on the other hand, seemed to be only slightly impressed. "(I wouldn't want to find myself on the wrong end of any sword wielded by that human.)" Shiki thought, referring to Zena. After her demonstration of the test, the young man who had spoken out before was called onto the stage as the first candidate for the test. After three painfully embarrassing strokes from his sword, the young man was dropped as a recruit candidate and was personally escorted out by Zena.

After several more recruits took the stage and failed almost just as badly as the first recruit, it was Fafnir's turn to grace the stage. Before it was his turn, Fafnir quietly discussed to Shiki his plan on how to pass the test. Shiki listened closely to his older brother's method and found it to be quite simple yet ingenious at the same time. There was no doubt in Shiki's mind that Fafnir could easily pull off such a stunt but he wasn't too sure if he could do it, himself. For now, Shiki pushed the thought to the back of his mind and watched as Fafnir approached the log. For a brief moment, Fafnir's hand was enveloped in a faint, electrical energy; it took an attentive person to even see the energy as it was so diminished. Most would just categorized Fafnir's technique as some form of magic.

In any case, Fafnir successfully split the log in two with relatively little effort - truly the mark of a capable dragon. "Well I'll be damned; on your first try and without a weapon too. Sit back down, you're moving on." Gungner told Fafnir.

As Fafnir took his seat, Shiki smiled at his brother; the smile indicated Shiki's relief at the mission moving along at a smooth pace. "Congratulations, Fafnir." Bernard said but was casually ignored.

The next person to take the stage was a girl with an excited vibe about her. She seemed confident that she would pass the test on the first try. Wielding a sword with some type of purple-colored gem on its base, the girl readied herself and took a swing. Unfortunately, the sword didn't managed to cut through the log completely but it proved to be a significantly better result than the previous attempts by the other recruits - aside from Fafnir of course. Needless to say, the test proved difficult due to the log freely swinging instead of being supported by a platform or anything else. Still, the girl didn't give up and, on her second attempt, cleanly cut through the log; cementing her place in the recruits.

Before she walked off stage, the girl began to proudly boast about how she successfully finished the test and that she was on her way to officially becoming a Wallguard. "Alright, alright, sit back down!" Gungner yelled. Numerous more recruits took the stage with some passing the test but the majority failed at completing the task; Bernard was one of the recruits who managed to pass the test by using a simple axe, however, it took him two tries to successfully split the log in half. Shiki has still yet to take the stage and as each second passes, he became more and more worried that he would make a mistake and end up failing the test; even worse still, he was afraid of revealing his and Fafnir's true identities.

Towards the end of the test, a girl - who is shorter than even Shiki - went up on stage to make her attempt at splitting the log in two. It was obvious that the girl was nervous as she was stuttering her words and fumbling with her spell book. Despite all of this, she actually managed to complete the test on her first attempt although her spell did damage the execution platform a little. Before Gungner could say anything, the girl had shyly apologized and went back to her seat. "(I can't just sit still forever, I have to complete this trial.)" Shiki thought before standing up and walking onto the stage.

"Weapon or magic?" Gungner asked.

"Neither. I'm using my bare hands." Shiki replied.

"Like the tall one, huh? Fine, go ahead, short stuff." Gungner responded with that last part proved annoying to Shiki.

"(Alright, I can't fail this. If I use too much energy, the humans might suspect something's unusual so I'll use the bare minimum.)" Shiki contemplated as he readied his right hand by extending two fingers. Enveloping his fingers in as little energy as needed - the energy wasn't even visible for a brief moment - Shiki thrust his hand towards the log and, upon impact, his attack only managed to dig two little holes into the log as well as causing it to sway even more than before. Seeing the results of his first attempt, a sweat drop formed on the young dragon's head. "(That barely did anything!)" Shiki thought.

"Are you even trying, lass?" Gungner asked with an annoyed tone of voice.

Ignoring the human officer's comment, Shiki began to rethink his strategy. "(No, no, that was no good! More - I'll use more power!)" Immediately after having that thought, Shiki balled his hand into a fist and enveloped it in even more power. This time, for a brief moment, blue energy could been seen surrounding Shiki's fist; it behaved similarly to fire. Letting out a battle cry and hoping for a successful second attempt, Shiki launched his fist into the log and, this time, completely obliterated the log; causing some splinters to hit Gungner's face. "(Oh crap!)" Shiki thought as his jaw dropped and his eyes shot out from his face.

Methodically wiping the wood fragments off of his face in a downward sweep, Gungner didn't seem at all too happy about the results of Shiki's second attempt. "Good news is that you've managed to show off just how strong you can be. Bad news is... YOU'RE NOT SUPPOSED TO DESTROY THE LOG, YOU IMBECILE! Now get your ass off of my stage and get outta here! You can retry this test when you learn some control." Gungner stated.

Defeated, Shiki was about to shamefully walk off the stage but he remembered that he had one more attempt at splitting the log in two. "W-Wait a minute, I have one more try, right!? Just give me another chance; I'll successfully do it this time!" Shiki pleaded.

"Arrg, fine, I'll give you one last try so you better not disappoint me!" Gungner agreed before ordering a new log to be put up on the chain.

Facing the new log, Shiki did his best to calm his nerves. "(Okay, I have to get this last one right. Draken-King Deidreig is counting on me- My entire race is counting on me! If I fail here, I'll become the laughing stock of the entire dragon race. Yeah, I can do it. I'll prove that I'm worthy of being called a dragon!)" Shiki contemplated before letting out a deep breath. Readying his hand, this time, Shiki extended all of his fingers and enveloped his entire hand with just the right amount of energy. Letting out a battle cry, Shiki proceeded to thrust his entire hand towards the log and as his hand made impact, the log was cleanly split in half. The bottom part of the log dropped onto the platform and a bit of steam could be seen rising off of the piece.

"(I did it!)" Shiki thought with a big smile.

"Tch, took you long enough. Go sit back down before I change my mind." Gungner warned to which Shiki happily complied.

"(Interesting... It looks like he might've used fire magic to bake the wood until it was flexible enough to be bent yet still hard enough that the wood would chip and break.)" Bernard figured after seeing what Shiki had done.

[Enrise]

When Zena was called upon by Gungner, she thought it was for something important. But she was proven wrong, it was the same "cut the log into two" preliminary test to prove who was ready and who was not ready. She looked at the officer when he stated that she was a rising star in the Wallguard, and that this task was done on her first try. Although the task being done on the first try was true, she would not claim any truth to her being a rising star. Of course, it did give some people something to look forward to; who was she to crush that goal of others unjustly? When Gungner requested that Zena give a demonstration about how it was done - though it was a simple matter - she couldn't draw her sword before someone interrupted two give their two cents about Zena using her own sword. Eagerly catching the standby Wallguard's standard sword, she turned immediately to face the standing enchained log, and struck down swiftly without a moment's notice. Before the log could split, Zena tossed the sword to the rightful owner, and turned to face the recruitment line, to which the log finally gave in, falling down with a small thud noise on the ground.

 

Then it was the same boy's turn, who made a fool of himself by missing the first strike. "I can understand missing the enemy in the midst of battle, but missing a stationary, chained up, immobile log? I'm glad we have high standards, otherwise we'd be taken over by surrounding countries instantly." She could only rest her face within her sword hand when he finally made the hit, but only just. His sword was stuck, and that could have already been the deciding outcome in reality. Then he made his third attempt, which failed - miserably would be an understatement Zena thought - in such a manner that Zena could only turn around and gave a deep sigh of disapproval. She couldn't believe what she bore witness to. He loosened his grip on the hilt, and tried to give the sword flight. She turned around, only to be instructed by Gungner to escort the recruit out. She grabbed his shoulder with a firm, yet soft, grip. "Come on. Let's go."

 

When he started complaining about his father being a well respected merchant and such other garbage, Zena only gave her grip more strength, and the boy started to wince at the strength. "Well maybe your father can afford you a teacher about how to properly hold a sword at the very least. Your father might be a great merchant, but that holds no grounds to us. We don't care where you come from, or what your family lineage is, or rather, I don't. You either pass, or you fail. No exceptions. I doubt we would even accept the King's heirs into the Wallguard if they were as weak as you." When they were far enough from the premises, she shoved his body away, and started back up. "Get going. And I ever see you any time soon, I'll make sure you'll endure a pain the Wallguards would consider torture. But if you do come back, make sure you've learned the proper basics of swordplay. Last, but most importantly, you have to be ready to accept your first kill, and not let it get to you..." With that, she turned around, and started to walk back to Gungner.

 

She wasn't close enough to see who passed, who failed, or how the recruits tackled the task. When Zena returned, she stood next to Gungner, it seemed as if all the recruits had finished up. She stood still with her hands behind her back, and stared at the recruits. "I hope I didn't miss anything. Anything important at least. I just hope we have some good recruits this ti-" she was interrupted when she finally turned her head to Gungner and looked at his face. It had been grizzled up even more by what seemed to be splinters from the wood. Although she knew the effect, she felt it would be hilarious to find out how it happened. "-time... So who was the numbnuts that did that to your face?" she eagerly questioned.

[.:Blu:.]

After successfully completing the log test, Shiki sat back down next to Fafnir and let out a sigh of relief before glancing at his older brother with a nervous smile. "That was close, huh?" Shiki joked at first before proceeding to apologize for almost ruining their plan. "I'm sorry, Fafnir. I should've thought the strategy through more before attempting the test." Shiki apologetically acknowledged. Despite feeling a sense of accomplishment just moments ago, Shiki was brought back down to his former discouraged state of mind. No one can really blame Shiki for feeling that way, however. After all, he's been given a mission of the utmost importance by the Draken-King; anxiety wouldn't be uncommon in these kinds of situations.

Shiki has wondered why Deidreig would assign to him such a vital task. Surely, any of his other broodmates would've proven to be a more reliable and useful partner for Fafnir than the "Egg that almost didn't hatch". In fact, Fafnir could most likely complete the mission on his own. So why is Shiki even needed? Suddenly, Shiki felt a hand on his shoulder which prompted him to turn his head to see who the hand belonged to. Turns out it was Bernard; with that "stupid-looking" smile on his face again. "Why are you apologizing? Cheer up. You passed, didn't you? That's all the counts. You and your brother are now one step closer to becoming Wallguards." Bernard made an attempt at cheering Shiki up. Strangely, this human's words actually provided some hope to the young dragon.

"(That's right. Fafnir and I are one step closer to infiltrating the capital; that's all that matters, right? Completing the mission. Yeah, I can't give up just because I almost failed. In the end, I didn't fail.) Shiki contemplated; a hopeful smile returned to his face. "(I still have a chance to prove myself to my race. Alright, bring on everything you got, humans!)" Shiki's confidence was renewed once more.

After Shiki, several more recruits took the stage and made their attempts at the log with only a few of them succeeding. Finally, the initial test was complete. "I have to say I'm surprised by the results. Looks like I couldn't even get rid of half of you recruits. Heh, it's been some time since I've received a proper group of viable Wallguard candidates." Gungner stated. By now, Zena had arrived back at the training grounds and when she got up to the stage, she noticed Gungner's face had been damaged somewhat. She proceeded to ask the name of the person that did that to Gungner to which he chuckled. "It's the short one with blue hair. I initially thought of him as a weakling but I guess he proved me wrong. Although it did take him all three tries to pass the test." Gungner responded.

Stepping down from the stage, Gungner looked to several Wallguards and gave a single nod; ordering the Wallguards to escort the remaining recruits to their next destination. "Listen up, recruits. We will know escort you to the Wyvern Grounds for the next step in your recruitment process." one Wallguard explained before leading the group off.

"Zena, you stay here." Gungner ordered before he walked off stage and made his way to the recruits. More specifically, Gungner was heading towards Fafnir for some reason. "You there, stop." Gungner directed the order to Fafnir. As his brother stopped, so did Shiki and, eventually, the entire recruitment group stopped as well to see what the officer wanted with one of the recruits. "You, you're name is Fafnir, correct?" Gungner asked. However Fafnir responded, Gungner quickly continued to speak. "You're performance on the log test was quite impressive. Although it didn't seem like you were merely using your bare hands alone. Honestly, did you actually think I wouldn't catch the little bit of magic you used? Regardless, you've managed to pique my interest so now I need you to stay here for a different kind of test." Gungner explained.

"Wait, I need to stay here with my brother." Shiki interrupted.

"You'll be fine on your own. Just follow the others. You're brother will catch up with you shortly." Gungner responded before ordering the Wallguards to continue leading the recruits to the Wyvern Grounds.

"Alright, let's move it along." the same Wallguard from earlier said.

"Fafnir?" Shiki was concern with what to do but after being reassured by his older brother, Shiki ran off after the other recruits; leaving Fafnir alone with Zena and Gungner.

"Listen, recruit. You seem to have what it takes to be a great Wallguard but I haven't seen what you're truly capable of in combat. So that's why I want to see you and Zena have a little spar to help me confirm your capabilities. If I like what I see, you'll automatically be recruited. So what do you say? You interested in my proposition or are you afraid you may lose?" Gungner asked with the hopes of spurring Fafnir into taking the opportunity. With Fafnir's confirmation, Gungner smirked. "Good. Here, take this. I've been meaning to see this weapon in action but I really have no use for such a thing personally. Maybe you'll make good use of it." Gungner proclaimed as he removed a unique-looking axe from his waist and threw it towards Fafnir.

"It's a Runic War-Axe - an axe imbued with runes in order for its wielder to be able to channel their magic through it as a sort of medium. It's as deadly with magic as it is simply used for hacking and slashing; it's meant for a Ground Troop and Magic Brigade-type Wallguard but seeing as how I'm merely a ground troop, I have no use for the damn thing. Anyways, I want to see just how good you are in combat against a proven Wallguard like Zena. I have a hunch that you may be able to hold your own but we'll see." Gungner stated before clearing out of the way for Fafnir and Zena.

Meanwhile, the recruits have arrived at the Wyvern Grounds - named as such because this is the location where the Wallguard's wyverns are housed. At the grounds are numerous pens; each of which contained one wyvern. Seeing the recruits, the wyverns began to screech to show their curiosity. "What the- This place is full of wyverns. Just why are they kept here?" Shiki asked no one in particular. Before another word could be spoken, several Wallguards arrived and started opening up the pens to release the wyverns; as the wyverns walked out, they were quickly ordered to sit by the Wallguards who were releasing them. "(Humans have learned how to tame wyverns??? I would've never guessed such a thing is possible, at least for humans anyway...)" Shiki thought.

"Now, this test is to determine your compatibility with a wyvern. If you are successful in bonding with a wyvern and ordering them to complete simple commands, you will have the chance to join the Wyvern Corps - a special division of the Wallguard. You have five minutes in which to do this starting... now!" the Wallguard explained.

Basically, each recruit will choose a wyvern from the numerous wyverns available. They are then required to establish a connection with their chosen wyvern and must be able to order the wyverns to complete simple tasks such as sitting or taking to the sky and such. And the recruit must be able to do all of this in five minutes. Shiki, never having heard of such a thing, became quite confused but, regardless, he quickly chose a wyvern. "I guess I'll try to give you an order. Something simple like sit." Shiki ordered but the wyvern did nothing at all. "Maybe it didn't hear me...? Ahem, sit, wyvern." Shiki attempted to give the order once more but, once again, the wyvern refused to respond. Suddenly, Shiki noticed a basket of assorted fruits next to the wyvern.

"(That's right. Wyverns can eat some types of fruits and vegetables. Maybe if I give it something to eat, it will listen to my command.)" Shiki thought before picking up an apple and handing to the wyvern. Without wasting any time, the wyvern snatched up the apple with its mouth and ate it whole. "Good. Now sit." Shiki ordered. Unfortunately, the wyvern simply turned its head the other way as an insult to Shiki. "Great, even a wyvern looks down on me..." Shiki said as his head comically fell.

"Heh, ordering a wyvern around is easy. You just need to let it know who's in charge. Sit!" a young man with jet black hair commanded to which his wyvern submissively complied. "Now stand back up!" Again, the wyvern complied. "You see?" the recruit arrogantly grinned. "Do you know why dragons are extinct while wyverns aren't? It's because wyverns know who their rightful masters are. Those foolish dragons lashed out at us humans and they payed the ultimate price. They got what they deserved." the recruit proclaimed.

Hearing those words coming out of the recruit's mouth, Shiki's pride turned to anger as he balled his hands into fists. "Shut up, you don't know a damn thing about dragons. And that's not how you're supposed to treat a wyvern either!" Shiki lashed out.

"Whoa, take it easy, would ya? What's it to you? I'm just giving you some advice since it looks like you desperately needed it, punk. Heh, don't tell me you actually like dragons? Actually, it doesn't matter. They're all dead anyways." the recruit continued.

Gritting his teeth, Shiki was prepared to punch the arrogant recruit who only continued to stare at Shiki with a self-fulfilling smirk.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Fafnir chuckled to Shiki's little joke, hoping to ignite a flame of hope in his broodmate, but even so the whelp apologized to his elder. To this Fafnir sighed with an uneasy smile. "Shiki, do not have such a defeatist mindset." He then gave his brother his trademark stern, honest expression as he continued to say "We're nothing less than engines of success. As long as you do not give up, you will always have a chance to win. The fact of the matter is, you succeeded. Some whimps didn't lay a dent in the thing." He then gave his sibling a pat on the head and finished off by saying "Besides, you destroyed the log with only slightly more power than you initially used - that's still less energy than the majority of these soldiers." With this he gave a confident smirk and chuckle, as he returned his attention to the commanding human.

 

It seemed further examination would take place with Wyverns. A smile came to Fafnir's face, because while broody and mardy, Wyverns were still cousins to Dragons, and their affinity for one another would prove further favour for himself and his broodmate. He patted Shiki on the back, knowing he'd do well in this test. However, the miscalculation brought his stern stare back on as he froze to Gungner's orders for him to stop. Following this with facing the man, whom asked him his name. Guessing it was Fafnir, the dragon nodded. He figured being the silent, strong, obedient type would suit the needs of this particular human, so he confirmed his name to the individual.

 

Gungner then interrogated about his test performance. Upon his question Fafnir replied "No sir. Through rejecting a weapon it is reasonable to assume I would be using magic, though withholding my words may have caused confusion among others." while maintaining his expression. However, learning of this new test, Fafnir frowned contemplatively, wondering what the test could be. Shiki then flagged up the worry, to which Gungner assured the boy - of course, it would take Fafnir to simply pet his hair with a smile to let his broodmate know everything was under control. "Have faith in me." he simply stated before watching his broodmate march off. It was nice Shiki was concerned, but Fafnir then drew his attention back to the more pressing matters.

 

A proposition to spar was lain down before him. Gungner wished to assess Fafnir's abilities against a seasoned Zena, whom he had faith in. From the manner Gungner phrased it brought a smile to Fafnir's face. "You needn't spur me to follow orders, sir. I will spar with whomsoever you wish. However, if I am to spar, then my brother will be joining me, to be automatically recruited. As a compromise, assess him through the tests and place him in whichever corps he is suited in - if I impress, I want him to be also guaranteed a place." He then listened to Gungner as he lobbed him an axe to catch, indeed which Fafnir did so, easily wielding the peculiar and captivatingly beautiful axe. This was, without a doubt, the Dragonic instinct of greed - Fafnir loved having, and would gladly keep such a valuable tool.

 

Discovering the nature of the weapon, Fafnir nodded and then spaced himself an even distance perpendicular of Gungner, awaiting Zena to take her position. Fafnir then began to consider what he should do - with no doubt in his abilities he assessed the context of the situation. Fafnir assumed Zena, a female, was lesser in combat (an assumption he would soon regret) and would likely fear from his full might. He also figured that, as a spar, exerting the maximum potential would be seen as inappropriate - he would thus limit his abilities to gauge his opponent and use power in proportion to her own (another assumption he would soon regret.) Wielding the Axe firmly in hand he looked to Zena and quested "What are the stipulations for this spar?"

[a bad post]

After Daphne several other recruits took the stage, some passing some failing, but she didn't pay too much attention until the blue-haired boy who hadn't known how to say 'brother' stepped up to the stage. On his first try he only had two small holes in the log, and his second he completely destroyed it, prompting Grunger to order him off stage, though the boy insisted on Grunger giving him another try, which did and on his final try he split the log cleanly in two. 

 

Ounce the test was finished Grunger informed the passing recruits they would be escorted to the Wyvern Grounds to see whether or not they were compatible with a wyvern or not. As they were leaving though Grunger held a recruit back, the one who had split the log in two on his first try, for some reason or the other, to which his brother protested. With a reassuring statement from his brother the blue haired boy rushed back to join the recruits who proceeded to the Wyvern Grounds. 

 

As the name implied it held many pens of wyverns. The officers who had been leading explain the test and sent them off.

 

Picking the closest wyvern to her, an intimidating black one, Daphne approached timidly keeping her arms folded against her chest. As she approached the wyvern looked down at her seeming to glare as though it knew she was unworthy, or maybe, Daphne considered for a moment, disdain for killing off their cousins the dragons. 

 

"U-uh, s-s-s-sit!" Daphne pointed down at the ground, which only caused the wyvern to snort at her. Furrowing her eyebrows Daphne took three confident strides toward the wyvern putting a determined look on her face. "I said sit!" At this the wyvern shrieked loudly, causing the small white-haired girl to scream as well running away from the wyvern pathetically. 

 

"Hey, hey, hey!" Strong hands grabbed Daphne by the waist turning her around setting her down in front of the wyvern. "Its not as scary is it looks. Aren't you?" Daphne turned to face the person who had grabbed her an indignant look on her face, finding it to be a tall young man with scruffy brown hair and eyes of the same color. 

 

"What do you think your doing!?" Daphne placed her hands on her hips pursing her lips. 

 

"Hey! Woah you just looked like you might've needed some help there miss," the boy replied with a smirk, though it was more teasing than the malicious ones she was used too. "You have to be forceful, they respect strength, but just like there giving you respect you have to give right back. Watch." The boy grabbed a fruit from the basket, "Sit." The command was stoic and absolute, and amazingly the wyvern obeyed, after which it was rewarded with fruit. "Good boy! See, haha, they're like big puppies!" 

 

"I-I suppose," Daphne inched forward still terrified of the wyvern gingerly placing her hand on its nose. 

[Enrise]

"Stipulations? Hmm. Let's see..."

 

Zena wasn't one to gamble on simple spars that meant nothing. It wasn't a big deal for her, but perhaps it meant something to her sparring partner; it probably meant something to Gungner, if he arranged a spar on the spot. Though, it was getting close to one of her "small meal" times of the day, so she would probably be a bit hungry. She heard about a new restaurant that opened somewhere in the city, and she was eager to try it out. "I heard about this new place in the city, apparently they have great food. I was going to go over there something and try it out. So, how about it? Loser pays?" It was all she could come up with, since there was nothing she really wanted at the moment. She tossed a quick glance at Gungner while she drew her blade, not noticing her opponent's response.

 

She stood ready at the sword, and waited for the attack of her opposition. However, he did not move, so she took the advantage and glided to his left side. He looked over, and quickly struck with his newly given weapon, though his attack failed. Zena planted her feat into the ground, almost digging into them, and held the sword at both the hilt and the tip of the blade, blocking the axe. She swung both her sword and his axe around, and launched his axe away from her body, though he still had a firm grasp on it seems. Though her sword was also away from them as well, she swung her left foot around to his right side, knocking him back a few steps whereas Zena immediately took several feet backwards to avoid a hit. She noticed he didn't seemed phase from the damage, and look readily available to fight still. She was beginning to enjoy this, though it would be better if he could fight back. She touched her chakram, but decided not to use it, since it's only a spar, and it wouldn't be fair otherwise.

 

Taking a few steps backward, Zena gave a quick dash, and lunged herself towards Fafnir, and began to move her sword towards his chest. Fafnir quickly shifted himself to avoid a piercing sword, and moved his axe toward's Zena's left arm. Zena, aware of the axe coming towards her, moved her sword enough to cut his left upper arm; Fafnir quickly moved away from the sword, denying the axe it's path to cut of Zena's arm, but instead slightly cut her upper arm. When the two were about a body's length apart, Zena touched her wound - fingers now covered in some blood - and brought it to her lips, lightly licking them. "Good cut. I see you in the Wallguard indefinitely." It wasn't mockery or sarcasm she showed to her combatant, it was genuine, maybe with some wit. Zena knew he had potential, and that this Fafnir could make a great Wallguard. She wanted him to unleash some killer instinct against her. Maybe then she'll undoubtedly have both a challenge and good time.

[Hotaru987]

After Vivien sat back down she watched the rest of the recruits either pass or fail. A rather young looking bow walked up with blue hair, and she thought for sure he wasn't going to pass. He chose to not use a weapon like the previous man, but they had a very fundamental size difference. Though perhaps he used some type of magic. Surprisingly, at least to Vivien, he made it through. Once the test was over they were all taken to the next part of the test. Wyvern training to see if any of them were compatible. Well all of them except the large man who split the log with his bare hand, and strange magic.

 

Since it had nothing to do with her she paid it not mind. Instead she was more interested in the multitude of wyverns in the stalls. When they were told to pick the wyvern she went to the one two down from the blue haired kid. As of now Vivien felt as though she were in heaven. Wyverns were the closest relations to dragons. As anyone who knew Vivien quickly found out that she was a true dragon lover and in favor of dragons living with humans. Well, that is if there are any more left. She sighed sadly, before facing her Wyvern. She quickly put on a smile hoping that her good mood would rub off on the wyvern. "Hey there. So uh, I'm Vivien and I think, well it'll be nice if we could be friends. You know if you want too."

What she expected to happen was the wyvern would turn to her and become instantly attached to her. Instead, she was just ignored. The wyvern didn't even care enough to get up from it's laying position. "Ah, come on! Please. If you be my friend I'll give you some nice fruit." Again nothing. Vivien crossed her arms with a huff. "Fine then, I didn't want to be your partner anyway." After a few seconds she peaked at the wyvern, then throwing herself at the stable door so she was leaning halfway over it. "Please! I've always wanted a wyvern as a friend! I'll take you on walks, and we can talk all through the night. We'll fly together and eat together and grow old together. Doesn't that sound like fun?" After once again not getting a response she looked behind her and called to one of the Guards, "I think this wyvern is deaf!" 

 

Suddenly she was headbutted and flung away from the stable. With tears in her eyes she glared at the offending wyvern. "What was that for?" It snorted and she just knew it was laughing at her. Not being able to truly get angry at such a beast she settled for pouting on the ground.

 

"Heh, ordering a wyvern around is easy. You just need to let it know who's in charge. Sit!" Vivien looked to where the noise was coming from and saw another recruit. While he was able to control the wyvern his attitude rubbed Vivien the wrong way. "You see?" the recruit arrogantly grinned. "Do you know why dragons are extinct while wyverns aren't? It's because wyverns know who their rightful masters are. Those foolish dragons lashed out at us humans and they payed the ultimate price. They got what they deserved."

 

It's during times like these that Vivien realizes how truly different she was from most. As she stood up genuinely angry from the recruits words, and she wasn't the only one. The blue haired boy yelled,  "Shut up, you don't know a damn thing about dragons. And that's not how you're supposed to treat a wyvern either!" That surprised her. She didn't think she would meet another person who would stand up for dragons like that. While there were probably many people who had an interest in dragons most were too afraid to voice them. 

"Whoa, take it easy, would ya? What's it to you? I'm just giving you some advice since it looks like you desperately needed it, punk. Heh, don't tell me you actually like dragons? Actually, it doesn't matter. They're all dead anyways."

 

Blue hair looked like he had had enough. His fist was rearing to go, and as much as Vivien thought the recruit deserved what was coming to him she didn't want blue-hair to get in trouble. That and compared to the other guy blue-hair might get beat up. "So what if he likes dragons? I don't think there is anything wrong with that?" She asked stepping next to blue-hair. "And you're wrong about the dragons all being dead." She thought about the lady who helped her when she was a kid, "They're out there somewhere, but someone with a peanut sized brain like yourself couldn't possibly step outside of your own self inflated ego to even consider the possibility. These wyvern's are not slaves or things you can just throw away. They could treated with care, dignity and respect just like the proud creatures they are. They'll be your partner for a long time and it's only fair to treat them as such. So if you know whats good for you, you'd better start treating that wyvern a lot better or I'll make you."

[.:Blu:.]

Despite his mentors advising him not to draw any unnecessary attention to himself while above ground, Shiki couldn't help but wanting to assault this despicable, arrogant human. His degrading comment about how dragons were wiped out because of their refusal to obey their human masters exceeded Shiki's level of tolerance. With each passing second, Shiki grew increasingly more furious. Finally, Shiki was about to attack the recruit but something unexpected occurred that stopped Shiki dead in his tracks. The boisterous and confident female recruit from earlier had walked next to Shiki and defended his opinion on dragons. She then proceeded to tell the arrogant recruit that he was wrong about dragons being dead before scolding his treatment of wyverns.

Shiki looked to the female recruit with a surprised expression; he was absolutely speechless. "(A human that likes... dragons...?)" That was the first thought that formed in Shiki's mind. He was dumbfounded at the very idea of a human having a positive outlook on dragons; after all, both Deidreig and his mentors have taught him that all humans despise dragons.

Hearing what the female recruit had said, the young man with jet-black hair became quite angry; his right eyebrow was twitching and he was gritting his teeth. "Peanut-sized brain...? Inflated ego...? And you said you'll make me treat wyverns better...? If your goal was to pissed me off then congratulations..." the recruit responded. At his sides, his hands were balled up into fists; hinting at what he might do next. Unfortunately for the female recruit, she was too busy having a stare down with the angered young man to notice. Thankfully, Shiki managed to overcome his initial bewilderment and noticed that the angered young man was about to respond violently. "You're a disgrace to the human race if you're defending dragons and wyverns!" the young man shouted as he launched his right fist towards the female recruit's face.

All that was heard next was the impact of the punch which caused everyone in the vicinity to turn their attention to the three recruits; the Wallguards watching over the recruits had left a few minutes earlier, however, so they weren't here to stop the situation from escalating any further. Back to the scene of the conflict, it turns out that Shiki had intervened and received the blow on his head, much to the surprise of both the female recruit and the young man. "(This idiot just took the punch for her...!)" the young man thought while the other recruits watched on. Seeing how hard that punch was, Bernard was concerned that Shiki might've gotten a concussion; his concern might be true considering Shiki was simply standing there with reacting.

"(Why did I just took that punch for this human? Is it because she likes dragons? No, no, that can't be true. All humans hate dragons and vice versa. I wasn't defending this human, I just needed a reason to attack the other human. Yeah, that's it!)" Shiki contemplated before arriving at an "answer" to his question. In any case, it turns out that Shiki is completely unharmed; in fact, that punch felt like absolutely nothing thanks to Shiki's draconic physiology granting him incredible durability.

"H-Hey, you're not dead are you-" the young man who punched Shiki nervously asked but before he could complete his sentence entirely, without any hesitation, Shiki threw a powerful punch into the young man's torso; launching him into the stable of his wyvern. Upon impact, the young man broke the wooden back panel of the stable, destroyed the wyvern's straw nest, and kicked up a huge amount of dust. Seeing such a powerful punch coming from a small person like Shiki caused jaws to drop amongst the other recruits. Shiki stood there silently - triumphant and yet to withdraw his fist. As the dust settled, the young man could be seen in the stable lying motionlessly for a brief moment.

"Ugh... D-Damn it..." the young man moaned painfully as he struggled to sit up. "(What the hell kind of punch was that...? I-I think he broke one of my ribs...)" he thought. After some time, the young man managed to impressively get back up to his feet; he now had one of his hands over his torso to place slight pressure on the wounded area. Meanwhile, Shiki took up a normal standing position and remained quiet with his face slightly bent towards the ground. "You're gonna pay for that. Attack him!" the young man ordered his wyvern. Hearing the command, the wyvern made a rumbling noise in its throat, signaling its reluctance to follow the order despite its apparent fear of the young man.

Unfortunately, the young man proved too stubborn to accept the dragon's reluctance. "Stupid wyvern, I told you to attack!" the young man shouted his command once more; his raised voice caused him to cough painfully afterwards. This time around, the wyvern gave in and charged towards Shiki with the intent to slam into him in order to knock him off his feet. Despite the wyvern nearing him, Shiki continued to stand his ground without any signs of budging. Then, right as the wyvern was several feet away, Shiki tilted his head up, revealing draconic eyes which caused the wyvern to come to a complete halt. With Shiki's face being mere inches away from the wyvern's head, the two of them ended up staring directly into each other's eyes.

Seeing his fierce, dragon eyes, the wyvern quickly became fearful and submissive; it ended up retreating to its stable for safety. With a blink, Shiki's eyes returned to their human form. Seeing what had just transpired, the recruits that were watching began to whisper amongst themselves in an attempt to discern how Shiki was able to scare the wyvern into retreating. The young man with jet-black hair stood in one place, speechless and with sweat rolling down the side of his face. Shiki then turned to the female recruit who had defended him earlier. "'Thanks,' I guess would be the proper thing to say." Shiki told her. Suddenly, the Wallguards in charge of the current test arrived back at the Wyvern Grounds and noticed the damage to the stable.

"What the- What happened here!?" one of the Wallguards demanded to know.

"Nothing. My wyvern got too excited and accidentally slammed me into its stable." Surprisingly, the young man with jet-black hair did not informed the Wallguards of what Shiki did. Although, he may very well just be saving his own skin considering the possibility that he may be kicked out of the recruitment process if he would've told the truth.

"Very well then. The time limit is up so now all of you will be showing us just how well you've bonded with your wyvern." the same Wallguard stated.

In this test, most of the recruits actually did a pretty decent job of giving commands to their wyverns including Shiki who now has a new found dominance over all the wyverns currently in the grounds. Those who didn't do so well were quite relieved to find out that they wouldn't be kicked out of the recruitment. With every recruit having been tested, the Wallguards escorted them to their next destination which was another training area; more specifically, this particular area is dedicated to archery practice as indicated by the numerous straw targets and dummies located in the area. A number of Wallguards were already present in the vicinity; all of them being Wallguards of the Archer Squadron.

"Hmm, are these the new recruits?" a balding man with black hair, pale skin, and a distinctively thin, curved mustache asked the Wallguards leading the recruitment group.

"That they are, Officer Kain." one of the Wallguards responded. The man who he had responded to is Ace Kain, a forty-five-year old officer of the Wallguard and a prominent member of the Archer Squadron. Within a few months, Kain will have earn enough time on the Wall to warrant a promotion to the Lieutenant rank - a rank below a Major and two ranks below a Captain. On the battlefield, Kain has proven himself to be a highly-skilled archer who is rarely trump by others. It is also known that Kain has somewhat of a "volatile" relationship with Officer Gungner.

"Good work, soldiers. Go get yourselves something to eat in the dining hall." Kain said.

"I'm afraid we have to return to our posts, Sir, on orders from Officer Gungner." the same Wallguard replied.

"That no-good, primitive bastard! He treats his own soldiers like dogs - working you poor souls to the brink of death! I said go get something to eat!" Kain exclaimed in comical anger.

"But Sir-" another Wallguard attempted to talk but was quickly interrupted.

"NOW!" Kain ordered to which the Wallguards ran off fearfully. With that settled, Kain turned his attention over to the new recruits with a friendly, albeit somewhat forced, smile. "Welcome, recruits, to Training Area Three - the domain of the Archer Squadron. I am Officer Ace Kain; soon to be Lt. Ace Kain and future Cpt. Ace Kain, at your service. For your previous test, you had to attempt to establish a bond with a wyvern, no? Well, the results of that test along with the next couple of upcoming tests will determine what sub-divisions of the Wallguard you will be placed in. Now, you will want to work hard on this next test so that you can join the best sub-division of the Wallguard: the Archer Squadron!" Kain proclaimed proudly.

Immediately after Kain finished his sentence, the recruits were each handed a bow and a quiver full of arrows by several Wallguards of the Archer Squadron. "(So this is a bow? It has a pointy, metal head fastened onto a thin stick. I wonder what good will such a fragile-looking weapon be in combat?)" Shiki wondered as he thrust an arrow forward with his hand; yes, he has confused an arrow for the actual bow.

"Stop messing around with that arrow! You could poke someone's eye out, you silly shrimp!" Kain told Shiki to which the young dragon became depressed from hearing the last part of the officer's comments. Turning back to the other recruits, Kain placed his hands behind his back. "Moving on. I am graciously allowing all of you to have ten minutes of practice with the bow and arrows before I have you run through the obstacle course. There are numerous targets for which to aim your arrows at so get to it. And remember, when you let loose an arrow, you best have confidence in where that arrow is heading or things could seriously take a turn for the worse. Good luck." Kain stated before leaving the recruits to their own devices.

The recruits soon took their positions at a target, all except for Shiki, that is. Shiki turned his head to the right and stared at the female recruit from before. For some reason, he was still contemplating what she had said earlier. Seeing a free spot next to her, Shiki approached the recruit. He ended up standing next to her and another female recruit - the one who impressively used magic to cut through the log earlier today. Stopping, Shiki turned to look at the short-haired girl. "M-My name's Shiki, what's yours?" Shiki nervously asked. After receiving a response, Shiki nodded. "Vivien? I see... Nice to meet you, I guess. Hey, about earlier... Did you really meant what you said? About liking dragons and all, I mean." Shiki wanted to know the truth.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Fafnir, as one could imagine, had misread and misjudged Zena from his initial bout with her. There's no doubt he had made a sexist judgement (to be fair, though, back in these times this form of discrimination was to be anticipated) however he should not have done so - why would Gungner have him face off with Zena if he hadn't faith in her? It clearly showed why he did. She was well conditioned for battle. Indeed landing a cut, he watched her lick the wound like in bloodlust, clearly one who enjoyed the martial spar with him. The issue was, though, Fafnir was not trying to make her have fun. Rather, he was trying to finish this petty trial as fast as it had started.
 
'So she's not a weakling.' Fafnir contemplated, scowling towards Zena. 'Holding back will mean I will lose. I cannot simply wing this. I have to put effort into this spar. I suppose humans aren't entirely pathetic.' Tightening his grip around the axes handle he readied his stance before making a charge for her, notably trading his patient and calculative battle strategy now for a more aggressive one. It was obvious why he did this, though. He had already evaluated Zena's battle prowess, and tiered it as a threat. He could not afford to analyse her any further, and now had to engage her.
 
Zena would not have any of this, of course. With eyes of nothing less than a hawk, she had undoubtedly spotted this shift in his battle tactic and, as a well seasoned warrior of the Wallguard, was likely able to capitalize on this - Fafnir closed the distance and brought down his axe, aiming to gash her across the shoulder, but with timely precision Zena not only dodged the attack, side-stepping Fafnir's powerful chop which left him open due to the force of the strike, but she took this opening and drew a forceful elbow, ploughing him in the back of the skull and rushing him straight to the floor.
 
Fafnir winced on the ground, holding his forehead to protect it from infection, since the blunt force Zena used had brought a cut to his forehead. However, Fafnir then staggered back up and, rummaging through his pocket, tied a rag around the wound, before turning to Zena. With a notable snarl he looked to her, evidently pissed off. Imagine it - a dragon grounded by a lowly human?
 
"Round one to you." Fafnir stated. "I won't make that clumsy mistake again." He quickly retorted, knowing exactly what Gunger would have thought of that poorly executed attack. "You can count on that." With a growl, Fafnir balled a fist in his other hand and revealed just what magic he had used to eviscerate the log before. A wicked bolt of blue lighting crackled in the shape of a ball formed in his hand, exposing Fafnir as a Warmage, a hybrid unit wielding the fierce fury of magic accompanied with the raw prowess of steel. The lightning hissed in his hand as he had it vanish - in truth the act was nothing but a taunt, but Fafnir needed to gain advantage, and maybe mind games were how to do it.
 
Nonetheless, Fafnir then charged his Runic War-Axe with lightning magic as he slowly walked up to Zena. Two hands wielding the one-handed weapon, this was a guise for with his swing towards the warrior, he would switch to using one hand, his newly available fist to utilize a lightning-charged uppercut.

[Hotaru987]

Vivien watched the young man as he visibly grew angrier and angrier as he mulled over the words she threw at him. She continued to stare him down all the while unaware that he was balling in hands into a fist ready to strike her. Yelling that she was a disgrace to the human race for defending dragons and Wyvers he went to strike her in the face. She was startled by the punch, surprised that he was resorting to violence so quickly. She took in an intake of breath tensing for the punch that was already too close to block. Vivien heard the impact of the punch but didn't feel it. Opening her eyes, which she didn't remember closing, she was surprised to see that the boy she was helping out had taken the punch for her. "H-hey are you alright?" The boy didn't move, and Vivien was becoming more and more worried about him.

 

"H-Hey, you're not dead are you-" The young man who threw the punch asked, but it was unneeded. The boy threw a powerful punch to the young man's torsoe, cutting of his sentence and propelling him into his wayvern's stable. Vivien looked at the boy in shock. Just how on earth did he manage such a powerful punch? He was even shorter than she was! Unfortunately, the man didn't know when to quit, this time ordering his unwilling Wyvern to fight for him. Vivien took a step back. "Hey kid, I don't think you can fight against a Wyvern with your bare hands. We should probably get one of the Wallguards or something." Again taking everyone by surprise the boy didn't back down from the charging Wyvern, and instead stared the Wyvern down. He and the Wyvern were practically nose to nose, and whatever the Wyvern saw int he boy's eyes made it instantly submissive and it crawled back into it's stable.

 

'Just what the heck is this kid? How did he do that?' Vivien was amazed that the boy was able to actually scare off a Wyvern by just staring at it. She wondered if it was some type of spell. Or maybe he was just that scary.

 

Vivien jumped slightly when he turned to her, giving a quick but strange 'thank-you', before the Wallguards in charge of the test finally returned only to see the damages. Upon asking what happened, the young man from earlier told a quick lie and everything returned to normal. Well, as much as it could after everyone witnessed what the boy did. Vivien wanted to ask for his name but with the Wallguards watching closely and not being close to his stall she didn't have the opportunity.

After the Wyvern test, which she was sure she failed, the test for the Archer Squadron arrived. Vivien couldn't help but smile and looked around hoping to spot her father. Upon not seeing him, she sighed. Well, perhaps that was better. It would be embarrassing if she couldn't do so well in his squad. Instead she listened to Lt. Ace Kain...Or...Cpt. Ace Kain...Or uh...Well she wasn't really paying attention in the beginning and only came in towards the end of his speech. So she took her bow and arrow and took her spot.

 

"Well, archery isn't my specialty, but I do know a bit about it." She notched her first arrow and carefully took aim. Letting the arrow fly she hissed a soft 'yes' when it hit the target. Though, it was about half way from the center. Notching another arrow she again took aim. "M-my name's Shiki, what's yours?"

 

"Huh?" It was that boy from earlier. Putting down her bow she grinned, "My name is Vivien Arkon. It's nice to meet you Shiki." She listened to what he said, she smile growing wider towards the end, and she got an excited look in her eyes. "Of course! I mean, why would anyone say stuff like that if they didn't like dragons? I take it you like them as well. You did try to defend that Wyvern after all. It's nice to meet another person who feels the same way I do." She had completely abandoned the drill, and was now facing Shiki. "I mean don't you think it would be cool if we could just see one? I heard hat when they were common they were the most gorgeous creatures, with beautiful and enchanting scales. Man I wish I could have seen it, or just have a few scales from a dragon. Well of course if the dragon was ok with it. I mean it is like their skin, so I bet it would be pretty painful having to pluck on off. For human's it'll be like peeling out own skin off and that's something I would rather keep thank you."

 

"Also I-Oh, uh...Hehe, sorry I can get a bit carried away." She was a bit embarrassed, having realized she was beginning to rant. And when it was about dragons she could go on for hours. "Hey, by the way. How did you do that with the Wyvern? It completely listened to you." After listening to whatever answer he gave her, she pouted, "My wyvern wouldn't give me the time of day, and I was really hoping to be a part of the Wyvern Corp. It's probably the closest I can get to a dragon for right now. That is until I find out where the other dragons are." With that statement probably bringing up questions again her smile returned, but this time she continued in a whisper, "Well, I believe that there are still dragons out there. The records say we've killed all of them but humans say a lot of things and sometimes they aren't true. Besides," She smiled in a way that said she had a secret, "I know for a fact that not every dragon is dead."

[a bad post]

As Daphne began to settle in with the wyvern she heard the sounds of an altercation, and watched as many recruits began to look the way of the blue-haired boy and the over-confident girl, who seemed to be standing off against an arrogant black-haired recruit. As the girl berated him Daphne noticed his fists ball up and without her noticing the arrogant recruit went to strike her. Daphne couldn't believe her eyes though when the blue-haired recruit took the punch for her falling to the ground. 

 

"Well that's pretty gentlemanly of him to take a hit for the lady like that, though maybe a little foolish," the brown-haired boy chuckled, but his smile turned downward as he noticed the boy wasn't getting up, "uh-oh."

 

"Wait. I'm a healer I can help!" Daphne turned to the boy as she rushed up hoping the boy wasn't dead, but stopped halfway through her tracks to the blue-haired boy launch a punch straight into the arrogant recruit's gut sending him flying into his wyvern's stable. Daphne hoped the violence would cease there, but unfortunately the arrogant recruit wouldn't leave with his tail between his legs, and sent his wyvern to attack the small-blue haired recruit. ...He didn't even seem to flinch though! Daphne was sure the blue-haired boy would die, but as the wyvern was about to attack the had some sort of stare down before the wyvern became submissive.

 

Despite the oddity Daphne still worried for the black-haired recruit who'd been punched into his stable, but refrain approaching him as other Wallgaurd were around him questioning.

 

Even with the young man's help Daphne failed the test miserably unable to control the wyvern for even a second. Thankfully this did not effect her passage into the Wallguard, and was only to see what sub-groups they would be in. Next it seemed the would have archery, which again was something Daphne was no good at... oh well she hadn't joined to shoot arrows or ride wyverns she'd joined to help people. To make sure no unnecessary lives were lost. As they were escorted to the archery grounds Daphne rushed up to the black-haired recruit from before.

 

"U-u-uh, your rib is p-probably broken," Daphne said approaching his side, "I-I'm a healer, so u-uh well I can fix it." Without waiting for a response Daphne placed her hands over the spot were he'd been hit allowing Diarahan to mend the broken bones and bruised skin. "I'm Daphne, w-what is your name?" During this time the young brown haired boy from earlier had approached them following her, and Lt. Kain had introduced himself and explained the test. Assuming it couldn't be that hard Daphne walked up next to the black-haired boy taking the target next to his, the brown haired boy taking the one next to hers. 

 

Knocking her first arrow Daphne took aim and while the arrow hit the target it was barely on the outer most circle. Two others landed in the ground, and one landed near the inner circle, but nothing spectacular... actually barely even average.

[Enrise]

"There were rounds? I wasn't aware of that. But please, making mistakes happens to the best of us. Or, most of us..."

 

Zena relaxed her pose a bit, and stretching her arms up in the air. She saw Fafnir walked forward towards her with a charged axe and saw that he decided to take her more seriously. This was good. She enjoyed the challenge of having to fight against some magic. While she did think of the new situation as unnerving, she grasped her blade tightly and decided that it would be more intense and fun than the last round, as Fafnir liked to call it. She too walked towards him. She was suspicious about him at the moment, since she believed he was humiliated by her. She at least wanted to honor her opponents that she deemed worthy. Fafnir was no exception to this, since she was having some fun with the little spar. "You're a great sparring partner. I'd be great to see each other as allies on the battlefield." She halted herself, and held her sword out, ready to strike. Fafnir halted his movement momentarily as well; they both were about five feet apart from each other. Fafnir readied his axe in adjacent to Zena's readiness.

 

Fafnir and Zena both started the attack simultaneously. Fafnir swinging overhead with his axe in both hands - with one of his hands with a loosened grip - while Zena trying to block the axe. When the two steels met each other, Fafnir lowered himself and released his left hand from the handle. When he reached far enough down, Zena knew she couldn't attack him without getting herself damaged, and that she could only dodge in the moment. Fafnir launched his fist towards her, with lightning spewing out from the balled up hand. She launched the axe out of her way, and jumped back a few steps so that the attack couldn't reach her. She knew that Fafnir started to get more serious. The thought of her using her chakram would be beneficial to this spar, but not necessary. It was only a spar, but she had to get a bit more serious too. She was also starting to get a bit more hungry with each strike made. "Alright, I'm getting really, really, hungry. We should finish this up..."

 

She made her dash towards Fafnir, and swung her sword towards his left side. Quickly, Fafnir tossed his axe to his left hand, and blocked the attack, while he used his free hand to 'shock-punch' Zena. She moved out of the way, but barely; she could feel the static get to her hairs as she moved towards his right. She kicked his right leg, making him stumble while she spun around him and landed a pommel to the back. When Fafnir fell forward, he landed on his hands, and kicked backwards, nailing Zena in the gut, knocking her a few feet. She shook it off, but she loved how much more serious Fafnir seemed to be getting. "I think it's time to end this. Gungner might be getting off from this little spar."

 

Fafnir got up and grasped his axe tighter and faced Zena. Zena grabbed her sword with both hands, and stood there. They both stood there, without motion. After a good minute, they finally moved, running towards each other. Within a few feet of each other, Fafnir swung his axe and Zena followed suit. With a loud "Ching!" from the steels colliding, both of the weapons were released from each others hands. Both disarmed, Fafnir and Zena moved back a few feet away from each other. While Zena was more or less surprised they both were disarmed, Fafnir prepared himself by imbuing his right hand with his lightning energy. Zena took out her chakram; she bent her middle finger inside, and began to spin the chakram at a rapid speed around the finger. Zena thought that, even though Fafnir had his lightning, she had her chakram.