Kira's action had indeed caught the woman's attention, more so then his words, as her eyes briefly raked over the young male in a manner that put Kaji a tad more on edge. What concerned him most is that the council woman may act out on her emotions, lacking the control that most would have. And although he knew his brother could very well handle himself and that technically the fire bender was bound to follow the law he would still gladly forgo it for his younger sibling. Turning the woman to tainted ash, as it would be impossible even for his flames to make her soul pure, would take merely a thought although the price could be rather hefty. Either way he would act unless she did something that would force him to.

The council woman seemed slightly more entranced as the water bender took her hand. A tinge of desire coursed through her, though the fact he had come from low birth easily stopped her from carrying anything out. She was again pleased yet slightly displeased as the silver haired male went further more and kissed her darkened hand. Focusing hard now on his words, so as not to act and cause a scene that could deface her, she shook her head. "If I were not hard on him, then he may gain a big head and think himself higher then what he is. A mere guard must be constantly reminded of his place, no matter how high in ranking among those of, if you'll pardon me,...low blood" she replied, the air cast around here still full of the pompous attitude she wore, as she made it somewhat clear she believed those born in the lower class were far beneath her.

Her eyes slid momentarily towards the fire bender, smirking somewhat for a few moments. It faded soon as her words hadn't seemed to effect the calm red head. Frowning slightly at his calm features she turned her attention once more towards the relatively handsome water bender. "But enough about him. On to the business I wish to speak with you about. I've seen a fair amount of your matches in the arena, and I must say your skills are quite...impressive. You've a quite impressive winning record as well, being undefeated during your whole career here. I would say I am curious to see how even the 'elite' would fair against you. Or rather how you would fair against them. I'm sure you could use a real challenge after all. You can only improve so far with opponents that you can easily beat, and I would hope the imperial guards would be able to give you a challenge...worthy of your...skills" Her hands now gestured almost wildly as she spoke, since hand had slipped from the water bender's.

Both Kaji's golden gaze and the council woman's dark gaze shifted as Zeno approached, congratulating the champion on his victory, and assuring the next would be his. Rahmiria's sly gaze lighted slightly as the wheels in her somewhat crafty mind turned. "Perhaps even both of you could be treated to training against our best. I could see the headlines now. The two deemed prodigies of the arena versus the best of the imperial guards. Perhaps even Kaji here and Alkaid in a team match. Not right away of course, but in time after a bit of training. It could be a win-win situation all around. Not only would the arena secure funds to perhaps expand further, but it would allow your skills to be tested against the best" she stated, hiding behind the tactic of 'training' and a good public cause to disguise her own amusements of the thought. In truth she was thinking more of her entertainment then anything else. However if looks could kill as she suggested her plan, mentioning both the fire bender beside her and the second highest guard working together, she would have been dead twelve times over.

Kaji's usually calm and peaceful gaze turned to a more deadly serious one as they shifted to the female beside him. If there was one person he couldn't stand more then Rahmiria and her corruption it was Alkaid and his insistent blood lust. He could only imagine the destruction that would be caused if Alkaid was pitted in a match and allowed a freer reign over his violence. Not only that but the thought of the earth and fire bender working together was one that not even Kaji could imagine. He knew well how the fight would go, and he was certain she did as well. Alkaid would be more interested in attempting to crush Kaji just as he would the other two, and he doubted the earth bender would hesitate to try and do so. One on one the fire bender could easily keep him at bay and be typically unscathed, but adding in two more lives especially his brother's...It was a recipe for disaster all around. He had to admit that as an earth bender as well Zeno had shown a fair amount of skill, but the two were on very different levels. The training the council woman had promised to be made among the guards would perhaps offer a chance a relatively good training, but it was a double edged sword with one side being sharper then the other in the fire bender's opinion.

The woman's gaze shifted to Kaji, pleased to see that she had stirred a reaction in the bender's eyes, even if it was one full of fiery daggers. "Come Kaji, don't look at your council woman in such a manner, it could become classified as treason you know..." the woman said, another smirk painting her face before turning her eyes onto the water bender. One finely plucked eyebrow rose as she witnessed his gaze locking with the young woman that had been beside Zeno as he mouthed a voiceless word on his lips. Her gaze traveled back and forth, her mind turning and processing a bit of information that she tried to piece together to use as leverage for her offer. If she could only get the water and earth bender to agree...Getting Kaji and Alkaid wouldn't be too hard since their leashes were held by the council and royal house. Although perhaps the least popular council member among the people, Rahmiria held a considerable amount of power among her peers and could easily pull a few strings to force the two, well really just one red head in particular, guards into a match.

-----------

Sylph giggled quietly and shook her head at his first words. "Winning isn't the only thing. You did your best out there and put on a spectacular show, just as you said you would. I've never seen such a large mass of people so satisfied and excited at once. For that and the fact that you have such great skill should be more then enough reason to congratulate you Zeno" she replied her cheery smile appearing on her features once more. "I'll try my best though not to embarrass you too much then" A playful wink accompanied her words.

As she heard he was alright her eyes seemed to brighten further in relief. She never liked seeing other harmed, but she was well aware that in certain instances, such as arena fights, injury was to be expected. Thankfully this time around only small scratches and bruises had been the price. "I'm glad then that you weren't harmed too badly then" her smile brightening slightly further.

She was surprised to see the light rosy color of a blush on his cheeks, not quite sure for the reason. Her mind soon strayed from the thought though as he questioned her on if she had enjoyed the match. "Yes, it was quite riveting to watch, although I'm still wondering what happened there at the end. The mist go so thick I couldn't see anything that happened there. From the sounds of it I don't think many or if anyone watching really knew what happened. One moment the mist had been conjured and engulfed you two, and the next...well I'm sure you already know that part yourself" she said rubbing the back of her own head this time, shaking a few of the long light blue strands.

Her mind was soon again taken from her thoughts as he invited her to his locker room. Immediately a light pink blush came to her cheeks, that only darkened more as he mentioned getting out of his suit. Regardless though she gave a small nod and followed after he pointed the way, walking beside him and doing her best to hide and control her raging blush, as she figured that she would be waiting outside for him to change. Yes that had to be it, otherwise she would have to perhaps decline the offer.

As they stopped to congratulate the champion, her gaze came to lock suddenly with the water benders. The blush she had desperately been trying to control from earlier seemed to only darken further, though for a different reason, as she couldn't help but catch the words on his lips. She offered him a kind smile in return, giving a small and polite bow of her head. "Yes congratulations on the match" she said politely and genuinely with her tone light and warm like a summer breeze. Both had done spectacularly in the ring from her standing and both deserved it. Seeing that he appeared to have business still with the two from before she offered a customed bow to all three, especially since the other woman seemed of higher status. She had managed to catch the red haired guard's attention briefly, as he politely nodded to her before his attention was once more on the issue that arose.

She was a bit surprised however as the woman beside him seem to suddenly try and drag the earth bender into the conversation, as she spoke of a possible opportunity for both fighters. She turned her gaze to Zeno, since he had been the one who had suggested they go to his locker room, and tried to signal as best she could that she was more then willing to go wait if he wished to attend to business here before hand, without disrupting the conversation. Before the match he had mentioned the guard, that she now knew for sure was the one named Kaji from what the other woman said, and that this could prove fruitful for the young earth bender if he chose to take it.

(Indeed. [:XD])

The earth bender's answer had done it. Rahmiria had dug the grave and unwittingly and unknowingly the young agreeing male had sealed it. The court had moved from Kaji and Kiril's hands quite quickly as the fire bender attempted to find some flaw that could be used to perhaps change the council woman's mind, however the shining and slightly smug look in her eyes now made it all too clear that, that would never happen. "Well shall we say then it's decided?"

Closing his golden eyes and releasing a resigned sigh the fire bender had no choice but to give his now forced answer that truly didn't belong to him as his mind still spun to find a different solution. "Whatever is decided I'll cooperate where I can, however I am curious about one thing, Lady Rahmiria. Wherever shall the time be found for this...grand...idea. You're attempting to pull not only myself but the second highest in the imperial guard. As it is our hands are tied with our duties..." the guard quickly tried to counter, giving one last push of possibly dissuading the idea.

Unfortunately the council woman gave a rather unsettling smile. "I'm sure you'll find some way to make this work Kaji. There's a reason we keep you around, aside from your bending you know. Actually while you're at it you may as well make some time for some training with them as well. After all if they're to fight the elite they might as well train with them as well don't you agree?" the woman replied, her sly grinning widening as she chose to pile more onto the fire bender's plate forcefully. Opening an eye the red head peered at the woman with the same calm yet deadly gaze. "As appreciative as I am for such devoted faith in me I must say what is being asked is perhaps a bit much, even for me. On top of that my bending is that of fire not water nor earth so it may not be quite as...beneficial-" the fire bender began again though was soon cut off by the woman who now seemed to dare give him a threatening look with her eyes. "You train others in the guard so it shouldn't be any different. Fire, water, earth, air, whatever the element have the same basic principles so I'm sure you could find a way if you so desired. Of course if you honestly think you can't handle it perhaps Alkaid..."she said, letting the threat linger.

With another resigned sigh Kaji gently shook his head. "There's no need for that. As you said I'll find a way" He wouldn't dare allow the violent earth bender to 'teach' his younger brother, or really anyone else. He was fully aware of just how it was the earth bender 'taught' others. The last incident had already been hard enough to cover up, after all how could one explain that guard caused a recruit to die during training without gaining public scorn? Alkaid was already known amongst those that had encountered him how blood thirst he truly was, and to even think of allowing such a man anywhere near his younger brother, even if his and Kiril's relation was unknown. Opening his gaze and glancing towards the young Zeno, Kaji knew that throwing the earth bender to one such as him would be like throwing meat to ravenous dogs and that he couldn't really allow either. His gaze turned again to his brother, catching the apologetic look in his eyes as he had tried his best with the situation. Understanding passed briefly in the elder's eyes before flicking again to the pompous woman beside him.

The woman beside him clasped her hands together delightedly, as she had gained what she wanted thanks to the earth bender. "Then it seems it's settled then. I'll leave it up to you all to sort out the rest of the details. I'll even be so nice as to help you with the council to free a bit of your time Kaji" she said with a smirk, as her tone turned slightly as if she were talking to a small child and mockingly patted his cheek. Oh how much the fire bender wished he could simply roast the council woman alive at that moment and free the world of her evil. His gaze watched as she flashed them all as charming as smile as a fake could offer before excusing herself.

"How it was she became council woman I'll never know..." Kaji quietly whispered to himself more then to anyone else. Directing his gaze and attention now on the other three he offered a rather apologetic look himself. "I do apologize for...a training decision being made without either of your inputs. In truth you both are free to do as you wish in those regards. I won't actually force that upon either of you, though if either of you are wanting it I won't deny as I have already given my word. I do apologize to as well Miss, I did not mean to ignore your presence" he said, the usually peaceful calm returning to both his tone and look.


Sylph nodded her head slightly in understanding. To her, from the stands, it looked as if the fighting was at their full potentials, but then she was also aware that appearances could be deceiving. "I'm sure things will be much different for next time then" she quietly said, happy to see he didn't seem discouraged from wanting to try again after he was a bit stronger and seeing the need for improvement. The air bender had always believed that those who felt there was no more room for improvement were the ones that needed it most.

A small yet thoughtful frown appeared on her face at his next words. The mystery of what had happened in the mist was still one of puzzlement it seemed if even Zeno was uncertain of what had happened. Perhaps the answer would lie in their next fight...Although she figured straight out asking the champion before them could give a rather quick solution too, but then that to her would be way too easy. 'Better to figure it out on one's own then to simply be told everything after all' she thought to herself with a nod, as the conversation waged between now the three males somewhat and the high class woman.

She was slightly startled out of her thoughts as the silver haired male suddenly addressed her. Giving a small bow again, to hide her embarrassment for a few moments, she opened her mouth to speak. "I apologize for not introducing myself a bit sooner. My name is Sylph" came the air benders light and gentle tone, after quietly waiting for a chance to answer the water bender's question to her name. Quietly she had watched the exchange occurring, seeing the clear disapproval in the guard's eyes, and slightly in Kiril's, and excitement with Zeno and the woman although they seemed for different reasons.

As the question came to her, she hesitated slightly. It was clear that the other two male's didn't share the same enthusiasm as Zeno. "Well it would be rather exciting to watch from what I've heard and have already seen, but I can also understand concerns it might cause" she answered as honestly as she could, not wanting to really put her nose in matters that weren't hers. It seemed the guard was doing his best to simply dissolve the idea, although from the sounds of it a decision had seemingly already been made, despite a feeling of increasing tension in the air.

Her voice was soon quieted however as a battle of words and wit seemed to ensue between the woman and guard, though it wasn't long before a winner was decided. A slight frown appeared on her face again as the woman seemed to treat the guard a bit...disrespectfully, before finalizing the idea and turning to go. She offered a smile to the guard as he apologized to her, shaking her head briefly. "It's quite alright" she replied cheerfully, as the tension seemed to lift slightly.

Sylph's radiantly gentle smile remained on her features as she nodded her head. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well. And yes I'm a 'child of air' as my home country would say" A quieted laugh accompanied her words, knowing how silly being called a child of an element sounded to many in Einheit. Surprise painted her face though as first she learned that he knew her to be an air bender, not only from her hair ornament but from an ancient technique that she hadn't heard of, and more so when she learned of the relation of the fire and water bender. She hadn't expected two of such opposing elements being so closely related, but then again she also understood.

The fire bender nodded as his younger sibling spoke. "Aye she would have. I would have thought her house arrest would have...dulled down her mischievous ways, seems it's only made her vengeful if anything else" he replied with a sigh. "Alright, though I will say there are a few things I may have to let you learn sooner from someone then I had planned if Alkaid's going to be involved as well in this" He knew his brother was powerful and for the most would be alright on his own, however the last time he and Kira had sparred with one another, the younger still hadn't been able to triumph, although that had been a few years ago. Kiril was stronger then he was then, but then neither he nor Alkaid had been idle either.

A fiery red eyebrow rose however as the water bender and his relationship was revealed to the two, but then again his brother did have a point. In a quick and brotherly teasing motion one of the bender's hands came to rest on the top of the silver haired male's head as he bowed apologetically to him and messed the top up with a rubbing motion, before returning swiftly to the crossed position over his chest. "You know if you keep looking apologetic a passerby might think I'm either reprimanding or arresting you" he said with a chuckle as he allowed a small portion of his typical almost overly calm mask fall, revealing some emotion in his eyes.

His attention then turned to the two other benders, clearly a bit more relaxed of the two knowing more then most, as the water bender demanded the two keep their kinship secret. He could see the light blue tresses of Sylph bounce and sway as she too nodded her head quickly. He didn't feel the need to add on just what their reasoning behind the secret kinship were, after all that was not the issue. For the most part the fire bender felt he could trust the two, although that didn't mean he wouldn't be keeping a careful eye just in case.

His own surprise grew however as Kiril offered to train the blue haired air bender. He had know well of his brother's infatuation Vaermina and her rejection, knowing a bit more behind it then he was willing to even admit to the younger. The fact that the two women were air benders deepened the fire benders hidden concern for his brother, although that he chose to keep hidden. Perhaps to distract from the thought the fire bender instead turned his attention to the earth bender and gave his thoughts over to the younger earth bender instead. "Depending exactly how much time I'd be able to free, and whether or not he wishes to actually train under me I may be able to do enough to ensure his survival in the least in perhaps two maybe three weeks. The skills are there for the most part, that much I can see, it's mainly control and experience that's lacking. I can't guarantee how well I can get you on par with Alkaid, but I can at least help ensure your death doesn't come about at such a young age at his hands" the fire bender nodded, as he gave his full opinion.

Surprise lit up the light blue eyes of the female as the water bender offered to teach her to hone her skills. In truth she really wasn't much of a fighter, preferring to more passive solutions then aggressive ones, but then again it never did hurt to expand her knowledge a bit more. The talk of Alkaid being involved had concerned the siblings and if there was a man that could concern even the two strong benders then perhaps it was for the best. "I can't say I'm much of a fighter really, and I do not wish to hinder your training either..." she answered a bit uncertain as her gaze went to Zeno's.

A trickle of quiet laughter and sympathetic smile came from the earth bender as he pouted. "Maybe, but at least you could get something further from this instead of just being thrown into the lion's den right?" As the question again came down on whether or not she intended to train with the arena champion, she again had to consider the option in her mind. "I'm still not entirely certain, although if you go to train with...Kaji..." she started, pausing hesitantly as she looked to the fire bender on whether such a formality of simply using his name would be permitted. A slight nod of approval from the bender gave relief to Sylph as she continued on, "...then perhaps..."

The air bender let out another small laugh and slightly rubbed the back of her head once more, teasing the tresses of her hair to shift once more. "Seems like it is relatively accurate, although at the same time I am somewhat wearing a hint" her tone was light but had been infected by the playfulness that the two brothers seemed to share.

Kaji allowed a smile to play across his face for a few moments at the words. "She does have a point there" he teased again. Of course he already knew that his brother's skills were relatively sharp and constantly being trained. His thoughts then turned, though the gleam in his eyes was still playful. "What sort of older brother would I be if I didn't? You've gotten stronger I'll admit that though" the fire bender calmly admitted. Of course Kaji wondered truly how large the gap was still himself, after all he had never gone against his brother without his limiter, though it was always for good reason. After he had fashioned it the red haired guard had only ever removed it once and that had been in a relatively emergency situation, far from Einheit...

"There is always someone out there that can teach you something Kiril. The day you stop believing that is the day you stop improving altogether. I believe though you may enjoy her teaching a bit more then the 'dodge the fireball' that I had used for you" A chuckle accompanied his words as his memories surfaced. It had been a relatively crude sort of training method, however it had served its purpose in the end, after all his brother still appeared quick on his feet in the arena fight. Of course since then his training methods had greatly improved as well. Another chuckle came from him though at his brother's next words as the silver haired male gently smacked his hand away. "Of course, I have to take advantage of it while I still can. The tables may very well end up reversed one day"

His expression turned slightly more serious though as a sigh escaped him. "As bad as it is to agree with that I don't have much of a choice either. Alkaid's brutality knows no bounds and I doubt even I'd be able to hold off his killing blows for too long when they're directed towards another" His words were accompanied by another sigh. He had been on the other end of the earth benders attacks many a times, so he had grown accustomed to stopping them himself when they were directed at him.

His gaze again went towards the earth bender, quietly studying him as his mind set about what method would be best for Zeno. "Yes my methods aren't quite as...crude or as simplistic as they once were. I won't lie when I say I'm not quite as lax as I had been with you when we were younger" he said, his gaze shifting again towards his brother, giving a quick yet playful wink. Despite his words he really hadn't been too terribly lax with Kiril's training, pushing him as hard as he could at the time without causing physical or mental harm to his brother as best he could. He held no doubt if he again tried to train with his brother that he would still hold back a bit, after all they were kin and the fire bender had raised him so a part of him couldn't help but hold back. It was probably the main reason he had agreed to teach him only the basics, that and the fact that fire and water bending were relatively different from one another. With Zeno however there were no blood ties to hold him back as well as the fact that earth and fire bending had a bit more in common with one another.

"In truth I could almost say the same about Alkaid, there's really only a few differences I've seen between the two to be honest. Of course I'll have to see personally to get a truly accurate idea of just how much will have to be done exactly, but my time frame should be sufficient either way" he stated with a nod. Of course it would still depend upon how much time exactly he would have to dedicate to the young earth bender's training, but he figured he would find a way somehow. Zeno was indeed rough around the edges, but with a bit of refinement and polishing, Kaji was certain he could improve the boy's skills to a degree that would let him escape with his life.

While the male's talked Sylph again thought of the offer that was given to her. Her face was furrowed slightly in a frown as she thought. Training with another in Einheit would be beneficial, though on the other hand she didn't wish to hinder the water bender's own progress. Her mind switched back and forth between the idea, as she also wished to give whatever support she could to the earth bender.

Seeing the indecision in the woman's clear light blue eyes and the slight pleading look in his brother's Kaji couldn't help but quietly give in. "It's ultimately your decision, but a bit of training with Kiril couldn't hurt. I think in fact it may even prove beneficial to all if you did. He'd have a training partner while Zeno is training, you'd learn skills that could would help you in the end, and I'm sure with those skills you can also help Zeno improve for his rematch against my brother, given the element similarities" the fire bender quietly interjected.

Her gaze came to land on the fire bender as he spoke. He did also have a point, perhaps it would be best then. A decision made she calmly nodded her head. "Alright. I can see the points being made. I suppose a little training couldn't hurt, and I'm certain as well if my brother were here he would also be telling me the same thing" she said with another nod, accepting the offer quietly.

Kaji's gaze turned to his brother, urging him a silent warning to be careful and not rush into things, before his golden gaze closed. "Now that's been decided, it may be best to move on a bit. If we remain here too much longer I've a feeling there'll be more of a commotion then needed. You two have a relatively large fan base after all and I doubt that time will deter them too much. I can go over more about the one I have in mind to help with your training Kiril later on if you wish. For you Zeno it may be best we start as soon as tomorrow with your training as I doubt Rahmiria will hold off on alerting Alkaid of the match. There's a few things in the morning that I'll have to arrange and a few duties that I can't ignore, but if things go according to plan I should be able to at least free up an hour or possibly more in the later part of the morning. The main square of the imperial grounds would probably be the best place to meet up, if memory serves me correctly the two guarding the entrance shouldn't put up too much of a fuss for you if they know your business is with me. I would advise though steering clear completely of Alkaid if you happen to spot him before I arrive..." the fire bender calmly and quietly warned. He didn't wish for his new trainee to become a bloodied mess by the violent earth bender, not before he was trained enough to have a chance at living in the end.

Sylph was a bit surprised at all the negativity towards Alkaid's personality and, from what she heard, brutal ways. "Is he truly like that? I'm surprised that, that's how an imperial guard would...act..." she suddenly stated, realizing a bit too late that she had spoken what had been floating in her mind without consciously meaning to. Embarrassed at that realization a light pink color once more flushed against the pale skin of her cheeks, as her head bowed slightly though she could see a slight nod come from the guard who knew first hand Alkaid's brutality on a multiple-daily basis.

In his mind, Kaji wished he could have promised the fight would be set up as it had been arranged, though he knew the chances of that actually occur would be slim to none. He would train Zeno to the point that he could survive and defend himself against Alkaid, but it wasn't exactly the brown haired earth bender that caused the fire bender worry. He knew Alkaid's mind better then that, and to think he would fight along side him rather then against him himself would have been a child's dream. Kaji knew the reality better then that and knew it was one of the reasons Rahmiria had chosen him as his fighting 'partner' rather then his unofficial title of the second best fighter in the imperial guard. It was these thoughts that plagued him when he excused himself from Sylph's company as well, and the ones that had dominated his mind when he held a bit of free time to think.

The next day hadn't gone without incident as the earth bending guard had been alerted to the match as soon as Rahmiria could find him. Much to the disturbance of the fire bender the dark green haired male had it in his mind that this was a four way death match rather then a two on two, despite anything that Kaji said or tried to explain. It was simple, Alkaid wouldn't hear anything different as he didn't wish to hear anything different. He thought of it as an excuse to rid the guards of the 'over-protective and cheating nuisance' that stood in the way of his career path. The words soon ended in a clash of power, as seemed usual based on the reactions of the other surrounding guards, with Kaji once again coming out on top as he ended up pinning the earth bender face down and one of his well known fire arrows pointed to the back of his head for a point blank shot, least he chose not to surrender.

Zeno might not have been able to kill a man, but Kaji was a slightly different story. From a young age his hands had already been soiled with the red of another's blood, a fact that haunted him quite frequently and prevented the male from sleeping during the night. The most predominant memory had been the night of 'the accident' that had taken the lives of his and his brother's parents. He wasn't sure what exactly Kiril remembered of that night, since he was still relatively young, but Kaji could remember it clear as day as he had been fully present during the entire ordeal. And whenever the subject had attempted to be breached it was typically the fire bender that would state that certain things were best to remain unknown, no matter who asked.

There were many other memories that brought torment to the fire bender's mind at night, many more secretive things he had done as an imperial guard were enough to keep any man or woman up at night especially during the early years when he traveled more. As a dutiful guard though he kept quiet about his mental demons, allowing only his natural calm be seen by most, while others he gave more privileged and genuine emotions to see. Whenever night fell however, the guard refused to sleep and instead used that time, when he wasn't on patrol duty, to train his own skills if he hadn't managed to get training in for himself during the daylight hours.

It was his calm however that he showed to Zeno as he put him through a rigorous training session, day after day. As a teacher he had indeed improved from when he had trained Kiril years ago. He now had the tools and no blood ties with the pupil he had taken in for the up coming fight, and so he showed no real restraint as he pushed the young male as far as he could go. Each day's session were slightly different then the day before, however their main focus was on the same, control, focus and patience. Kaji picked away at the unrefined features of Zeno's style and skills. At times they trained in the imperial training grounds, while during others he would take the male away out into the wilderness to a natural training ground that the fire bender had molded to suit their training needs. It was there that he could allow Zeno use his earth bending without restraints.

Soon enough a routine had been established, as various other imperial guards became aware and use to Zeno's presence. Each morning Kaji would have the sandy haired earth bender come to the imperial main square, where typically he seemed to be finishing a bout with Alkaid, who's skills seemed to be growing more and more deadly as the day of the match drew nearer and nearer. Alkaid's danger wasn't the only thing that seemed to increase either. The guard's work seemed to pile more and more on him as the days wore on, though he still managed to have the same amount of hours each day to train the boy, though he could feel his mental and physical exhaustion slowly catching up to him.

During his training time with Zeno he had sent another guard to assist his brother with his training. The auburn haired woman, Heather, that he had hoped that morning of his brother's match would take his patrol place, was immediately referred to him. She was a relatively tiny thing of a woman, standing perhaps only 4'8", though she would swear she was an inch taller. She had a lightly tanned skin tone, and a lean but well sculpted physique and eyes that seemed to burn a deep rich green color. As a bender she was a rather talented water bender, knowing techniques that had been thought lost long ago and was perhaps the reason Kaji had sent her to Kiril.

Her personality was a somewhat laid back, kind, though a bit mischievous, when outside of training. As a teacher though her personality seemed to take a sharp turn from her usual easy going attitude. She was far stricter then Kaji had ever been with Kiril, or perhaps how most would ever be with those they were teaching. If a technique wasn't done correctly she would immediate correct it, then dish out a physically tiring punishment, usually some sort of running, push-ups, sit ups, or some activity with bending, before having the technique tried again after a small break if it was needed. Unlike many other women she didn't seemed in the least impressed that Kiril was the arena champion and didn't fawn over him for it. " Although respectable it is merely play compared to the real world where in battle the only rule is to survive and there is no cushion to rely upon" was her usual reply in terms of the arena, mainly referring to the cushion as the safety glass for the crowd, or the referee who could end a match if it was getting too far out of hand.

Like Kaji, Heather too had guard duties to work around, however never as much as he had, and so she had a bit more free time. She didn't spend it all though simply just training Kiril, at time she would watch him train the young air bender Sylph, whom she had quickly befriended. Other times she would convince the two, well usually convince Sylph who would then work on helping her convince Kiril during their 'down time', to come and either watch or participate in a bit of mischief with the imperial guards, namely upon Kaji himself. At one point she had managed to take them during a time the fire bender was drilling a few new recruits and Heather, claiming that he seemed he needed a refresher to cool him down a bit and to wake him up a bit, doused him with ice cold water when he was fully distracted with his instruction with another. Kaji hadn't seemed particularly upset with the act, though he wasn't entirely amused either, stating " If you wanted my attention Heather simply calling out my name would have sufficed..." before drying himself off rather quickly with his flames and resuming his teaching. After the three were away, she had confessed that it had been a prank she had pulled on the fire bender many a times. And when questioned by Sylph on why she would pull such a mean prank on him, knowing well that he was Kiril's brother and not wanting him to think too ill of the female water bender for messing with his brother, she simply replied with "He knows I'm only playing with him. Besides if I left him alone he would have already worked himself to the grave. It gives him a chance to relax a bit believe it or not. Fire benders are not immune to their own fires, nor heat and someone like him could over heat relatively easy if you don't find a way to cool them down occasionally." Although when she spoke Sylph didn't miss the clear affection Heather held in her eyes, and couldn't help but give a faint and womanly knowing grin.


Sylph's own hands had been kept rather full herself the next couple of days. As she was instructed the first morning she had met Kiril at the designated time and place that he had laid that first night when the match between Kiril and Zeno versing Kaji and Alkaid had been decided. She was an eager and quick learner, soaking up all that the water bender taught her. Her skills in air bending had been rather exceptional, although she lacked the ferocity that could inflict incredible harm towards her target and her techniques were a bit rough. "I would rather knock a person out then hurt them in such a way, and it's not my right either. My life is my right, just as anyone's life is their own right" It was a philosophy that had been taught to her at a young age, and was one that couldn't quite be drilled out of her head.

Despite it though she did show some promise when pushed a bit too far and had managed to create a small yet powerful hurricane forced wind unconsciously. Of course immediately after she couldn't help but apologize that she had allowed herself to slightly lose her temper. She was rather patient and kind, but there was still only so much that she would tolerate. It was clear though that her tolerance rate differed greatly from most others in Einheit, as she could seemingly handle a bit more, perhaps due mainly to the upbringing she had in her home country.

When Heather had come to train Kiril she found an almost instant friendship with her. She was easy to get along with, although she could be rather strict when it came to training. Occasionally she would question the female water bender if perhaps she was doing things a bit too roughly or pushing Kiril a bit too hard, but Heather simply stated that it was good for him to be worked that hard, otherwise men would simply never learn fully.

Of course when she wasn't training with Kiril or hanging out with him and Heather be it during their resting breaks or while she trained him, she would go and seek out to watch Zeno's training and cheer him on. At times she couldn't help but compare the sometimes seemingly harsh training methods of Kaji and Heather, but she knew over all neither would ever harm Zeno or Kiril...too much... It was impossible for no harm to be done, after all it was hard to give someone a full training potential in sparring if one held back too much. Usually though, after the training sessions, Sylph took it up as her responsibility to treat any wounds gained, including some of the ones the fire bender had gained from Alkaid, although he insisted he was perfectly fine.

It was usually during these times that she could and would answer questions about herself, or ask them about the others in either group. She was both surprised and yet not at how varied and different the questions from each were. It wasn't too long though that she had told both groups the country she hailed from was, Biredt, a rather small country that bordered the far north and was well known for the strong and independent, though reclusive benders that lived there. It didn't exactly border anywhere near Einheit, but Kaji assured her that the two countries were actually allied with one another, although for political purposes.

Her surprise truly came though from one particular question that seemed to be asked out of the blue one day, 'Do you know an air bender by the name of Vaermina?' Her answer was honest and clear when she nodded her head affirming that yes she did. "She was a friend of my brother's when we were younger. I don't remember too much about her then, but I think I remember my brother telling me she came here at one point. Although since my family didn't interact with people too much we hadn't really had much contact with her again until a while back. She returned home a bit disheartened, saying that a guy she met had rejected her and needed the fresh air of Biredt to clear her mind and think a few things over. She said she rejected someone's feelings once and thinks she knows how they feel now. Other then that I don't know too much, but I'm sure I can ask my brother when next I write home since they seem to be in contact quite a bit" she had answered honestly. Vague details had been given to her by Vaermina about the whole event that had caused her to return home, and Sylph hadn't bothered to push it. During her next letter home she had asked about it, but she hadn't yet received any reply.

She didn't think too much of it though, as her days continued to be relatively busy. She had grown rather close to all four, though most of her time was spent with either Zeno or Kiril since Kaji and Heather had other responsibilities that they were forced to carry out throughout the day.


As the day of the match grew closer and closer Sylph did notice a small change in the two guards, one who's worry seemed to constantly increase and the other who's exhaustion seemed to only increase. In private Heather had confided in her and Kiril that she was worried about the red haired guard, that Rahmiria had been piling work upon him relentlessly and that she had taken to assisting him with various jobs as she tried to give him as much time to rest as possible. "I think her and Alkaid are planning something too. Lately I've noticed each time Alkaid spots Kaji and challenges him he smirks at him, even though he loses. He doesn't even proclaim that he'll win the next challenge, only that he better be ready for the real fight to come. I think Kaji knows it too...He's tired I can see it in his eyes" the female water bender stated during one of their breaks, after of course she ensured she had run Kiril ragged himself with her last training session. It was only a day now before the match and she wanted to make sure he was tired enough so he would get a good night's sleep.

Kaji's final training session with Zeno had been slightly lighter then normal, though he still made it a challenge for the boy, and ended much sooner then normal. This time around the fire bender hadn't scheduled in a sparring match exactly, rather more of a shifting obstacle course, that varied with degrees of flames this time at random times. A fight was never a predictable thing and so the final lesson he wished to instill upon the younger male was to find ways to counter unexpected circumstances.

Once the session was completed he had the boy sit and rest a bit. Surprisingly he hung around longer during this time, where he would typically send the boy on his way after a few moments of rest and rush off to the next task on his daunting list of responsibilities. His frame leaned against one of the few sparse trees in the area, most being caught in the cross fire throughout the years of training, and his golden gaze, that typically watched the male carefully studying his progress, were closed. "You've improved a great deal since the first day Zeno. Your chances against surviving and defending yourself against Alkaid are fairly good now, so long as you remember what you've learned...You and Kiril may even be able to win this match, depending upon how certain circumstances play out. Just remember to keep in mind your opponents tomorrow are Alkaid and myself no matter what occurs. If you see a chance to strike either of us down, I suggest you take it no matter what the circumstances, understand?" His golden eyes opened and peered down seriously at the earth bender.

A sense of slight dread had been harboring itself within the back of Kaji's mind since that morning's challenge with Alkaid. The older earth bender had mentioned something about meeting him before the match to talk of tactics. It was odd behavior, after all hadn't Alkaid been speaking as if he were going to fight not only against the two but himself as well? Aside from that the earth bender had said nothing else of the match. The fire bender knew that it would be foolish to think that the dark haired bender was truly going to work as a battle partner, and that he had to be scheming something. The last meeting he had held with the detestable Rahmiria also rose his suspicions as she had mentioned that his duties would be passed to another the day before, of and after so he could 'recover' and prepare. Something about it didn't seem right in the least, although he didn't wish to inflict such troubles onto the younger earth bender's mind. He needed to stay focused if nothing else and keep his 'eyes on the prize' rather then worrying about the consequences of what could and probably would very well happen.

Although the guard had been kept busy, he was more then aware of the rising unrest between the people and the government and it unsettled him, though exactly how deep it was he wasn't entirely sure. His own mind had come to the conclusion that quite a bit was riding on this fight now then what there had been before. On one hand if he and Alkaid were to lose it would show weakness within the government, on the other Kiril and Zeno had gain the public support and were the 'champions of the people' now, of course with the ever violent and brutal Alkaid as his partner that was only natural. Although Kaji was one of the more well liked guards of the imperial court, he knew that most wouldn't think twice if something were to happen that would take the lives of either guard. Rahmiria had already announced to him that there would be no referee in this match, so the restraint that was needed for Alkaid was no longer there.


Sylph's gaze drifted over towards Kiril as she silently listened to Heather's growing concern and slight rant of the 'two evils' planning something, a nickname the female water bender had come up with when referring to Alkaid and Rahmiria. She noticed that he always seemed to have something weighing heavily on his mind, but then she decided to chalk it up to the idea of him fighting against his older brother and a 'brutal madman' as Heather would so elegantly call Alkaid.

With a small and kind smile she motioned for the male water bender to join them, if he could move as the auburn haired female had been especially brutal in her training today, before quickly shifting her attention back onto the task she had previously been engaged with, making her 'famous' herbal tea. Sylph had known this would be the last day of training before the match, and so she had decided to prepare a bit of snack and tea to help ease any nervousness about tomorrow.

She had thought before of possibly inviting Kaji and Zeno to the little 'picnic', however when she tried to catch them after her own two hour session, she found that they were in the middle of training themselves, and so left them quietly to it. She would return at the usual time that they seemed to finish to at least catch Zeno, as Kaji always seemed to disappear rather quickly, and see if he, Heather, Kiril and herself could spend a little more time together before tomorrow.

Turning her gaze towards Heather as she continued her rant about wanting to pop Alkaid in the mouth just once before the match, the air bender couldn't help but let out a giggle. At the sound the female water bender quirked an eyebrow curiously, as Sylph pour and handed her a cup of tea. "What about confessing your love for Kaji before the match?" she stated quietly, though her light blue eyes seem filled with a playful laughter.

Heather's reaction was immediate as she unceremoniously sprayed out the tea she had been sipping and stared wide eyed at Sylph. Now that the training had been fairly completed her usual easy going self had returned. "Wha-What are you talking about?! I-I don't know what you're talking about" the female quickly spat out, her cheeks gaining an amorous red flush about them, that only deepened as Sylph giggled. "Who would ever fall for someone like him anyways? Sure he has a high rank in the guards, but he's constantly being forced to work. He's too calm and...and his hair is too red! Not to mention he's at least a foot taller then I am...and he's completely oblivious to how people feel. Love for him? No not me, nope...nada" she stated, crossing her arms stubbornly, though her tone was fairly unconvincing.

"I do want to one day settle down and have a kid or two you know! Start a family and not have to worry about whether or not either myself or the man I love is going to come back or not when they go out that door..." she continued quietly when it seemed clear that Sylph was in no way convinced by her previous words. Her eyes were always an open book with her, as it was clear that it was the life she had wanted with the fire bender. Switching her gaze over towards the silver haired bender, she decided to instead pass the torch onto him. "What about you Mr. Serious over there? What are you planning on doing after the match tomorrow? Maybe go out and celebrate surviving?" she asked, confident in knowing her temporary pupil would surely survive the fight against the two strongest guards, if not Kiril himself, Kaji would surely never let either boy die.

Kaji's golden gaze rested heavily on Zeno as the earth bender made his request. He remained in silence staring at the boy for a few moments before his eyes closed and his head leaned back to rest against the bark of the tree. "You both make a request that puts me in a truly difficult position. I cannot make a full promise for a variety of reasons. For the time being I can say this, I shall not interfere with either you or Kiril so long as your conscious and on your feet to defend yourselves..." the fire bender began, pausing momentarily as his eyes flashed open, and shifted again to the younger male. "...If by whatever circumstance you're down and unable, for whatever reason to defend yourself or get away then I've no choice but to interfere. I've kept this fact from you both, but this match with not be refereed by an outside source. As it is Alkaid and I are honor bound with a pledge to protect the citizens of Einheit no matter the situation, however only one of us actually upholds that tenant. As the higher ranking guard I am duty bound to ensure Alkaid does not take either of your lives, even if it were to cost me my own, as the result would be the same regardless" The fire bender's tone was clear, serious and almost as heavy as the look in his eyes.

He remained as such again for only a few moments before closing his eyes and once more resting against the tree. "Besides I haven't yet figured out if I'm fighting to win or fighting to lose...I've a feeling it shall be a decision made by another rather then myself. I can say though you needn't worry about me continuing to fight, if it's not you or Kiril that I'll be fighting off then it'll be Alkaid himself. In his mind this is a free for all, not a partner match. Despite that knowledge I'd still recommend working together with Kiril rather then on your own. That also said if Alkaid does in fact turn on me, don't let that discourage you from attacking as well, or even if for some reason Kiril and Alkaid end up attacking the same target, I'm rather good at finding ways around difficult situations."

The red haired guard already had an inkling of how the match would initially go, as Alkaid's words still bothered him. Just what was he and Rahmiria plotting during this event? Were they planning on killing the two boys as well as himself? He wouldn't put it past Alkaid to use one of them as a means for his destruction since he was aware that the earth bender knew that he would take ensuring the lives within the arena rather seriously. He would not lose his brother and he'd be damned if he allowed a boy so young to lose his life either. Of course if Alkaid did plan on killing him as well he sure as hell wouldn't simply roll over and die. No that would be too easy and the elder earth bender didn't deserve it easy. Kaji would fight, and if need be he would take Alkaid down with him.

"That all aside, you should prepare as best you can for tomorrow. I've taught all that I can in the time frame given, now it's up to you to use what you've learned and how you use it. You may have been my temporary pupil, and Kiril may be my brother, but that doesn't mean I'll go easy on either of you as I have in your training. There's much still to learn that only experience can give you for now" he said, a faint smile appearing on his face. He hadn't shown the emotion he had when his brother and Sylph had been present on that last day the four of them had been in each other's company, as his usual calm yet serene mask again flooded his features, although there wasn't much he could do about the results of the stress he'd been given.

"You're free to either stay and continue practicing or do whatever it is you feel like on your own. As for myself I appear to have the day fairly free for once and this tree appears to be getting more and more comfortable by the minute..." he stated with a quiet chuckle, as he knew soon enough he would be allowing his body some much needed rest.


Sylph allowed a brief look of disappointment to flood the light blue pools that had been watching Kiril as he declined the offer. 'He must be too tired to move' she thought with a silent nod. "Is there perhaps something I can offer you then? I believe the tea is ready and I've a few small sandwiches here too that are rather tasty and refreshing" the air bender offered with a smile, feeling she should at least try to do something to help the male water bender.

Both her and Heather were a bit surprised though as he answered that he didn't really know what he was going to do after the match. Surely the champion of the arena had some girl out there for him already. 'Other then Kaji of course, but then they can't really be brotherly towards each other in the open...' Sylph quietly thought.

Both girl's could see the look in his eyes change and the air around him seemed more ferocious like a caged tiger whose prey was right before them and the keys dangling in the hole about to give it freedom, and in truth it was a bit frightening, but at the same time they weren't frightened of him in particular. Flashing green eyes slowly began to switch back and forth between the air and male water bender, before the owner of them decided to again try and lighten the mood. "I'm shocked, you with your fan base and all. Surely there's one there that you'd just love to celebrate with. Maybe even Sylph here ya know?" the female water bender teased playfully, as this time it was the air bender's turn to choke on her tea in mid sip, rather then spitting it out, causing the green eyed female to burst out in laughter before patting the girl's back.

"What wouldn't you like that Sylph? I mean look at him. I'm sure he'd make a girl a good husband. He's clearly a strong man, if not a bit over zealous in training at times. His bending skills are pretty good, and you're about his height so kis-" her words were suddenly interrupted as an exasperated Sylph swiftly covered the water bender girl's mouth, her cheeks a flaming red on her porcelain skin. The hand muffled the laughter of the auburn haired woman, though her eyes were gleaming now with a playful mischief.

It appeared that soon enough it would become a teasing match between the girl's, although at the moment Sylph was a bit speechless as she tried to get over the initial shock of the female water bender's rather bold words. The air bender had to silently admit to herself though that Kiril was a sight to behold, although it was his personality that the light blue haired female liked most about him. He had developed a calm about him when he taught her, and she felt rather comfortable around him. Then again she also felt comfortable around Zeno as well. The earth bender was very much like her own brother in many respects, though she still knew the differences, though he felt a bit more like a brotherly companion then anything else at the moment. Quickly she shook her head, banishing such thoughts to the back of her mind for the time being. Now was not the time to be examining such things when there were more important matters ahead, although later on she felt she would perhaps be more willing to examine this a bit more in depth, but not now.

Kaji chuckled quietly, though lightly nodded his head, both as an understanding and to force off his exhaustion just a bit longer. "My burdens are only ones I've brought on myself in an attempt to survive in this world. I will say I would never advise anyone though to enter into a military career, or at least not one in Einheit. Someday though perhaps the weight will be lifted and change set forth, until then I will admit it is nice to be in the company of another and simply relax a bit for once. For that I shall thank you. Your company has actually helped quite a bit" he said, his tone genuine and sincere as he truly did appreciate that the male seemed a bit concerned.

A flamed eyebrow rose however as he heard the young earth bender's suggestion. He knew that Zeno was trying his best to help in whatever way he could. Opening an eye he peered at the male before letting out another quiet chuckle. How many years had it been since he had been to a spa? Four, possibly five or more, he honestly couldn't remember. It was a look however, perhaps an unconscious one, in the other male's eyes that perhaps made Kaji lightly nod his own head. "It sounds like a fair idea. With things being as they are people seem to fear the guards more nowadays unfortunately so there might be a slightly different reaction then if you chose another. Just to warn you..." he replied quietly as he mentally chalked that up to another thing he would need to change and work out once the match was over with tomorrow.

Glancing towards the sky he knew that soon enough time would slip away from them and tomorrow would be upon them. Again a slight pang of dread passed through him, but he calmly pushed it aside. Now wasn't the time to worry about it, and doing so would only cause more stress on the fire bender, that would possibly pass on to the younger earth bender. Letting out a calmed and deep sigh the fire bender allowed the current stressful thoughts on his mind to vanish with the exhale, and again allowed a faint smile to come on his face as he lightly pushed himself from the tree. "Well if we plan on going to a spa it may be best for us to get going before it becomes impossible to get in. There appears to be quite a few...tourists here from other countries that have come to watch the fight tomorrow if I remember the records correctly"


Almost nervously the air bender glanced towards Kiril, before directing a gaze at Heather that clearly promised mischief if she dared to even try and finish her previous sentence before removing her hand from the water bender's mouth. After giving the auburn haired female another slightly piercing gaze she again turned her attention towards Kiril as he again declined her offer. Again a slight flash of disappointment painted her eyes before it was pushed away to again give home to her usual warm and friendly gaze.

Heather's own green gaze watched Sylph's expression closely, catching the emotion that the air bender pushed back. With a nod of her head and grabbing two sandwiches, stood and squatted down beside the other water bender, extending one hand that held one sandwich out to him. "Eat the sandwich. I don't want someone who was my temporary pupil losing to Kaji just because he didn't feel like eating. You've worked your body hard and now it needs something to help it re-energize and food is an excellent way to do it" the water bender pushed, however a the gleam in her eyes held a different reason for her stubbornness this time.

"I also think it would be a great idea for you and Sylph to do something together after the match. After all just because the fight will be over doesn't mean that the two of you have to stop training with one another. You could make plans for the future, again unless you've something better to do, but from the sounds of it you don't" she said with a sly yet playful sort of grin. "And I can always keep Kaji and Zeno busy if need be, although Zeno might have something planned with his family so really it may only end up being Kaji that needs to be kept busy..." she continued with a nod of her head and a light show of pink on her cheeks.

"I'm sure you would Heather" the air bender chipped in, gaining her voice again as she playfully teased the other, however the red blush that she held still refused to leave its spot. She could see the female water bender shoot her a quick an embarrassed look, causing her to let out a quiet giggle. It was nice to be able to playfully jeer at one another and be so relaxed, even with rather daunting events coming up. She did wonder though what would happen at the end of the match? No matter who won she was still determined to keep her ties with Kaji, Kira, and Zeno, and there would be no way that she would drop connection with Heather either, though the question was would they want to? Her attention was soon caught however as a small breeze whipped up a few strands of silvery hair that played on the male's face, before he brushed them away, almost captivated by the sight.

Heather let out another chuckle as Kira denied being over zealous. "Alright fine you work hard in an over zealous way, how's that? But still I'm proud of the progress you made and the fact you managed to survive my boot camp. Remind me later and maybe I'll make you a t-shirt, least Sylph and your fan girls drool all over themselves" she said with another playful laugh.

"I'm not drooling!" Sylph protested as her skin flushed again with the embarrassment of the words as she snapped out of her slightly dreamy state of mind.

"No but you're blushing so you were thinking about it" the water woman teased playfully, laughing as the air bender's eyes narrowed, though not in a threatening manner. She was a bit surprised however when the light haired girl's hand rose and brought forth a bit of a breeze that was just barely strong enough to cause her to topple over onto her side. "Hey!" she shouted before glancing around for a puddle to cast her revenge.

Sylph giggled again, however her gaze soon enough drifted from Heather's toppled form to Kiril's as the breeze played with his silver locks. Again she was captivated as she watched silently, though not fully realizing it until a few of her own long light blue strands chose to smack her in the eyes. Shaking her head she quickly brushed them back behind her ears and allowed the breeze to die down to what it had previously been. "Sorry" she said rubbing the back of her head slightly in apology.

A chuckle came from the red head as Zeno mentioned going to bed afterwards. "Well you've earned it that's for certain" he said with another light yet quiet chuckle as the two went to carry out the spa idea.

Kaji in the end was relatively grateful that Zeno had suggested the spa visit and had chosen to go with him as well. It was a relaxation period he desperately needed, and the cheery personality of the young earth bender helped keep his own nerves and worries at ease. The fire bender had managed to relax enough that he managed to somewhat drift off into a light doze every so often, giving his body some of the rest he needed, that he knew regardless wouldn't be coming tonight anyways.

After their hour or so of relaxation time the fire bender gave his farewell to the earth bender, and wished him luck tomorrow even if he was one of the opponents. He knew the boy would needed it after all.


Heather couldn't help but grin as the male water bender gave into her demand to eat the sandwich. She was a bit surprised that he almost instantly seemed to gobble it up, and risked a glance back at Sylph, who seemed a bit surprised herself, before bursting out into laughter. "Seems he has a healthy appetite too, so there's another plus for you Sylph. You could try out your 'womanly cooking' on him" she giggled out with a wink.

Her mischievous grin grew as Kira's thoughts were practically written on his face. "Gotta move quick in this world least you lose your opportunity" she whispered playfully at him, before righting herself up and strolling back over to her previous spot with a triumphant look on her face, that only seemed to slightly puzzle the air bender.

As Kira asked for something to wash the sandwich down with, Sylph immediately nodded and began pouring a cup of her herbal tea for the silver haired male. "Of course" she replied as she got up herself, balancing the cup of warm liquid carefully as she went towards him, going down on the grass beside him, sitting on her legs, and offering the cup. A warm and cheery smile remained on her face, though her features seemed slightly warmer then a few moments ago.

She was a bit relieved to see that her little wind 'prank' hadn't upset the male in the least. In fact he laughed, which was a win in her book. He always seemed so serious, since most of the time they were training, or quiet when they were in a group. The expression of happiness on him only increased his appeal in her mind. 'He should laugh like that more often' she thought, before silently vowing to herself that she would try as much as she could to accomplish that.

As the hours passed by the two girls continued their teasing of one another, Sylph gaining the upper hand when Heather had no choice but to admit that she did like Kaji, but knew nothing would bloom in their relationship so long as he and her were imperial guards. For her leaving would be relatively easy, she wasn't as highly ranked as the fire bender was, and at any time she could walk. The problem however was the red head. "The government official's claws are wrapped tightly around him now, I doubt he could escape even if he wanted to without making it look like an act of treason. Plus if he were to leave now, Alkaid would gain control and I know he would never allow that..." she quietly confessed with a long and heavy sigh, before rapidly changing the subject and directing a few teases at Sylph and Kira.

The day soon turned to evening and before long all three knew that they would have to depart if Kiril was to get enough rest for the match tomorrow. Sylph and Heather wished the silver haired water bender good luck, with Heather making a playful threat that if he lost she would have to run him through her boot camp again, before departing. The two women then departed together, with the female water bender accompanying the air bender home to ensure she made it safely. Both would be watching the match tomorrow and cheering for all but Alkaid.

--------

Sunrise felt as if it came quicker then usual to the fire bender. He spent the night back in a more secluded and barren part of the backwoods that surrounded the city. Sweat gleamed on his light features as the roar of fire erupted with an almost vicious ferocity from one of his punches. Glancing up towards the lightening sky the red head decided to call it quits for his own training for now, as he had spent most of his free time from yesterday and all of last night training intensely, pushing himself much harder then he dared to push his brother so many years ago or even Zeno. His limits were a bit higher for him to reach and push past, but he managed.

He took a few deep breaths in of the cool morning air, to help slow his breathing to a more comfortable pace, and allow his skin to cool. He was very much aware of just how true Heather's warning had been of overheating himself with his fire. He wasn't immune to it nor that of heat, he just had a higher tolerance rate, as most fire benders did. Walking towards the tree branch that hung his traditional black buttoned top he stretched his arms and back. He didn't have the same clearly sculpted muscle tone that Alkaid or even his brother had, but rather he looked deceptively lean. His fighting style didn't require the immense physical strength that many others felt the need to have, it would only slow him down. He had enough to suit his needs and nothing more. Besides his specialty was ranged fighting rather then close melee, a fact that many tried to use to their advantage, but then he had his own unarmed techniques to make for it, which he knew Zeno would learn soon enough.

When he trained the boy he had already told him range was his own personal preference, however for the training he remained close, mirroring Alkaid's style more then his own. A small smirk appeared on his face before a quiet chuckle came from him. The boy would be surprised just how different his style was compared to what he had shown in training.

After arranging himself he began to make his way towards the arena, where Alkaid had stated the day before he wished to meet with him to discuss 'tactics'. Although the two were seemingly polar opposites in fighting, and were typically fighting one another, the fire bender knew that if they had in fact teamed up they could be a rather unstoppable force. The two were use to each others fighting styles, so syncing up wouldn't be as difficult as many thought. As imperial guards they had been forced to train with on another in the past, and at times in the present, an idea that was generally kept away from the public. Although it never lasted long as soon their punches and attacks would be aimed at one another as opposed to the training dummy...

-------

It didn't take too incredibly long for Kaji to make his way to the arena, a half hour or so tops he figured, but he was surprised to find it already cram packed. 'I guess news has spread more then I thought originally...' he thought as he slipped his way through the people. As a leader people were drawn to him, as much as he hated the fact at times, and now was no exception, however it wasn't his leadership the people were aiming for. He could practically feel the hostility that seemed aimed at him, though he knew it wasn't really directed at him personally. He was a 'dog of the government' and it had been the rocky relationship that developed between it and the people that caused so much hatred.

Regardless he managed to slip through and make his way down to the competitor's area. He was relieved in a sense that the fight had been the only one scheduled for the day, so aside from himself, Alkaid, Zeno and Kira the area would be completely deserted. He had passed by the arena manager, who told him were it was his and Alkaid's team room would be, before giving the red haired male a sympathetic look. The fire bender knew that he knew something hidden that he was more then likely to find out for himself soon enough.

When he entered the room he wasn't surprised to find the earth bender already waiting there with a smug and almost satisfied look on his face, nor that the fact that behind him the door was abruptly slammed. No what did surprise him was the sight of Rahmiria in their shared room. "And what do I owe the...pleasure of this visit madam council woman?" the fire bender asked coolly as his gaze shifted back and forth between the two.

"Why I'm here to explain things. It seems that there's now more riding on this then I had originally hoped, I'm sure you already are aware of the consequences of either outcome in this battle yes?" the woman asked, pausing until she received the affirmed nod from the fire bender. "The government is aware of it as well and has devised a plan that would produce the least resistance of the people" the woman continued, her grin growing slier as Alkaid moved from his leaned spot against the wall.

His dark gaze flashed with a malicious glee as he came to stand before the fire bender. The difference in appearance between the two was almost immediate, dark hair and eyes clashed in contrast to the lighter colors of the fire bender. Although they were similar in height, the muscle features on the earth bender clearly exceeded Kaji's, seeming almost over sculpted in the fire bender's eyes. The simple dark shirt he wore stretched, almost close to ripping as nothing was really left to the imagination, though the fire bender was certain it would be lost before the start of the match. The dark slacks he wore were fitted against his leg muscles, yet allowed him enough room to maneuver quickly if he needed. They were simplistic and similar in design to Kaji's own. A bright colored sash, holding Einheirt's colors was wrapped and tied tightly around his waist and mirrored one that was also wrapped around Kaji's. Neither wore their imperial tunic, merely the colors of the city. Neither would be wearing the safety vestments of the arena either, Rahmiria already made arrangements for that, claiming they were normal competitors so there was no reason for it, however the other two were more then welcomed since it's what they were use to fighting in, in the arena.

Golden and deep green gazes clashed viciously with one another, before the fire bender's gaze shifted again to the woman's. "And that would be?" he didn't like the sound of it, nor the look of pure evil glee on either's face. In the next moment he knew the reasons behind the looks as a sharp pain suddenly pierced his abdomen. Golden eyes widened as they struggled to keep the pain out of them and off of his features. "You both have to lose this match at any cost, and so we're going to give those boys a slight advantage..." she said with an evil grin as her gaze danced on the earthen spike that was held by the tanned hand of the earth bender that was slowly being housed within the fire bender.

Immediately the fire bender placed distance between himself and Alkaid, his hand going towards his newly created wound to try and remove the offending object. The earth bender was quicker however as he used his earth bending to finish its descent into the red head's flesh. Coughing out a red liquid that now mirrored what was dripping from his wound, the golden eyes flashed angrily and hatefully at the two before him. "You're going to have to get that cough under control and change your shirt. I've already arranged a replacement for you and it's on the door over there. You're going to fight with that little hindrance in. It's not deep enough nor long enough to pierce anything vital...yet. If Alkaid feels your either doing too good, or needs you taken out however..." the woman didn't need to finish her threat, Kaji already knew what would happen. His life was now in Alkaid's hands, and with a simple movement it could be ended.

"This isn't...a necessary...measure..." the fire bender grounded out through clenched teeth as the burning pain continued to assault his body. He could get use to the pain with the allotted time, the problem would be the blood loss, but then it would ensure the match didn't drag out too long, just enough to give the people a show before the two guards lost. "This...is a coward's move...Rahmiria..." he continued, as clearly he disapproved of the method. After all it wasn't as if he had shoved a flaming arrow into Alkaid. "It doesn't matter what you call it. I find it to be necessary and Alkaid agrees, so you'll fight with that and lose. It's as simple as that. So long as you go along quietly nothing shall happen understand?" the woman jeered as Alkaid's laughter accompanied her words. The red haired guard's only reply was a seething look before his gaze moved away and slowly began to move himself away from the two, to the furthest furniture that he could sit on. "Good...now I'll let you get adjusted...oh and good luck" the woman called mockingly, waiting for Kaji to be clear of the view from the door before opening the door, exiting the room and closing the door behind her.

"I think I'll go and check the crowds a bit. You don't look well Kaji, so I'll make sure it's known you don't want any visitors so you can rest" the earthen male called before he too left the room, closing and locking the door behind him.

Kaji's head leaned back to rest against the cool wall behind him, now that he was seated on a chair. 'Moving hurts...breathing hurts...I can't imagine what bending will be like...Damn cowards...' he thought bitterly to himself as he worked on 'getting use' to the feeling of his forced handicap.

--------

Sylph and Heather had met earlier that morning at a corner cafe where they enjoyed a rather light and nice breakfast together. "I wonder if the boys are all there yet?" the air bender asked her water bender breakfast companion excitedly. There was a bigger buzz on the streets then there had been when Zeno and Kira fought, and she knew that they would have to get there early in order to get any seats.

"Knowing them more then likely, even Alkaid. I heard from Kaji that they were to meet and discuss tactics...Hopefully the other two are doing the same. Alkaid and Kaji may not fully get along, but they've been fighting one another for quite some time so they know each others fighting pretty well. If they really tried I'm sure they'd be a powerful force...But then that depends entirely on Alkaid since he's the more unpredictable of the two" Heather nodded, knowing well what Alkaid was like. She had seen many of the fights between the fire and earth bender, and she had to admit that their attacks were rather...frightening and powerful. Kaji's movements flowed together but were powerful like liquid fire, while Alkaid's was pure brute force yet he was solid like stone itself. If the earth bender to overcome the urge to attack Kaji, she knew Zeno and Kiril would have a run for their money for sure. But then the two had been training vigorously so she held no doubts that it wouldn't be entirely easy for the two guards either.

"Well we better make our way there if we want to watch inside the arena" the water bender stated before rising from her seat. Sylph's nod of agreement accompanied her words as she too rose. The two paid their breakfast meal quickly and made their way to the arena.

It didn't surprise either that the place was pack to their full capacity, but they still managed to squeeze in and find two seats. They weren't as close as Sylph ring side seat had been during her first visit, but it was close enough that they would be able to easily see the action. "Shall we go wish the boys good luck since our seats are now reserved?" Heather asked with a playful grin. Again Sylph nodded in agreement before they slowly and carefully began to fight their way towards the locker rooms.

Once there though a few arena guards chose to stop the two women, though with a little charm and a 'deathly ill sister who only wished to speak with her hero's before her life ended', entirely Heather's idea, they managed to get their way through. The rooms were across from one another so it was relatively easy. Heather first knocked on Alkaid and Kaji's room, though found no reply. Frowning she tried the door and found it locked. "Guess they're in the middle of a discussion...Or not yet here, though I could have sworn I saw Alkaid here..." she stated before turning to knock on Zeno and Kiril's room instead.

Quietly Kaji waited within the corner of the room that he had taken up as his for the time being. The pain was dulling down only slightly, but it still hurt to move or breath. His golden eyes came to rest upon the shirt that the female council woman had previously stated she had brought and knew changing into it sooner would be better then later. Forcing his body to move with a wince, as he now had no one to hide from in the room at the moment since it was only himself. He could feel his body tremble slightly, and had to use the wall every so often for support, until he was finally able to reach out and grab the black cloth. He then steadily made his way back to the chair, sitting down as carefully as he could.

Leaning his head back again, he worked on getting his breathing under control as it came out shakily. 'Definitely not looking forward to bending...' he thought with a slightly miserable sigh. How was he going to convince the crowd, Zeno and his brother that the fight was a fair one, when he held the disadvantage? 'I'll have to manage it somehow...' he thought shaking his head as he turned his attention to the black tunic shirt that laid across his lap now. With still shaky fingers he managed to maneuver his current shirt off, revealing to him the full extent of the damage that Alkaid had done.

The spike had been inserted up to the point that the end just barely edged out and was just large enough, that if not careful could cause some major damage, but small enough that he could defend the area adequately if he moved just right. Pulling it out himself would be a stupid move at the moment as blood still lightly leaked from the edge, however the spike was blocking most of the free flow that would inevitably come sooner or later. 'I suppose I'll cross that bridge when I get there...' he thought as he again forced his body to move so he could slip the undamaged top on. He was never one to fight topless as it was, after all when dealing with flames keeping bare skin to a minimum was the best course, even for a fire bender, so he knew that keeping his on wouldn't arouse suspicion.

Once the tunic shirt was on his gaze came to rest on the black garment that now held a hole in it. 'Might as well make some use of it...' he thought before carefully he began tearing it so she could turn it into one long strip, for the most part anyways. Raising the shirt he wore until just a bit above the wound was visible with one hand and using the elbow of the same arm to hold one end of the strip in place, as best as he could, he began slowly wrapping it around the area. It wouldn't provide much protection, but at least it would provide some cover and help keep the dirt out of the wound.

It took a bit of work, but eventually he managed to get the whole thing around and on, before tucking the other end of the strip into the makeshift bandage and securing it as best he could, without causing too much pain. By now his senses were becoming use to it, that he could at least ignore it a bit better when moving. It was when he returned his shirt to its original place that he heard a knock on the door. He knew almost immediately, from the tone, and gender, of the voices, that it wasn't Rahmiria, and it certainly wasn't Alkaid. He elected to stay quiet, making it seem as if he wasn't in the room, although he hated to fool the girls in such a way, but then how would he possibly explain the situation? He was locked in the locker room that was his and Alkaid's alone, and he still wasn't able to fully erase the pain from his expression. No the best thing for now was to keep silent. Resting his head back against the wall he allowed his eyes to again close. 'May as well get a bit of rest while I can...'


Sylph and Heather giggled as Zeno questioned their intentions for being there, seemingly confused. They were delighted that the two didn't appear too busy for them to enter, after all in a sense they had already been turned away from one friend. Heather again let out a giggle as Kira stood and kissed their hands in greeting before returning to his seat, while Sylph's face went a little red. "Good morning" they both chimed, one with a bright and happy smile, while the other seemed shyer, though still warm as the owner tried to control the reddened look.

Laughing Heather pointed towards Kira as he already guessed the reasoning the two women were there. "Bingo! We came to wish you two and Kaji good luck, though it seems he's not here yet" the female water bender replied, a bit of disappointment in her tone. She hadn't had a chance to see the fire bender for a day or two, and knew that the day after the match he would probably be working on recovering or preparing himself for whatever hellish duties he was sure to get.

Sylph nodded her head in agreement. "Yep and that we'll be rooting for all three of you, even if you're on different sides. I'm sure it's going to be an exciting match no matter the outcome, though I do have to say it seems most of the crowd is hoping you two to win. I just hope you three come out not too terribly beaten up." the air bender chimed in, giving both males a warm and sincere smile.

"So we wish you two good luck. I hope you're not feeling too nervous about the match, after all you've got quite the opponent to beat" Heather stated with a broad smile as she chose not to acknowledge the fact that they had more then just Kaji as their opponent. The water bender never liked Alkaid, after all he was always causing issues for everyone, especially the red haired guard.

"Good morning again" Heather said, expecting the air bender to chime in with her this time, but instead all she received was a giggle. The explanation as Kiril suddenly excused himself caused both girls to flush a bright red at the news, well mainly from Zeno's imput. "That...was a bit too much information there Zeno then we were looking for" the water bender replied as she rubbed the back of her head. Glancing over at Sylph she could see the air bender chose to remain silent and instead bowed her head, as the auburn haired woman could only imagine what was possibly running through the light haired girl's mind.

Sylph was a bit relieved when the conversation switched to the match. "More then likely, although really there's only one other element that's been added. And you've been training with Kaji all this time, so perhaps it won't be too bad" the air bender replied, after she had composed herself enough.

Heather was surprised to hear that they wouldn't be wearing protective clothing in the fight. Being a guard she was already aware that Kaji and Alkaid wouldn't be permitted to wear such things, after all neither had ever fought with such restraints, as the last thing one worried about in a battle of lives and politics was whether or not the clothing one was wearing was protective enough. In her career she had even seen grown men and women fighters coming to a fight stark nude, then again they were of a different tribe and country..."It's sure to be a quicker battle then. I doubt Alkaid will hold back, and I'm sure Kaji will be eager to end the battle as quickly as possible as well. Neither have ever been ones to allow a fight to last long. My suggestion is to end it as quickly as possible anyways. The longer it continues the more they'll try to end it quicker and the hard it'll be. Of course I will say try not to scuff up Kaji too much" the water bender said with a wink.

The heads of both girls turned as Kira reentered the room a little while after. A blush returned to Sylph's face while Heather let out a grin. "Welcome back. You missed Zeno painting lude pictures of your bathroom break into poor little Sylph's head. I thought she'd die of embarrassment from all she was probably picturing" the water bender said teasingly.

"I was not!" the air bender replied quickly, her entire face turning a bright red at the other woman's words. Her gaze turned pleadingly towards Zeno, silently asking for some back up on this. She could hear the amused laugh of the the woman beside her. Oh she would definitely be getting her back for this...

"There, there Sylph, it's perfectly natural. You are a young woman after all so of course you'd be interested..." the water bender said, continuing her tease and playfully nudging the air bender, laughing as the light blue haired woman looked almost like a deer in the head lights as she desperately denied the claim.

"If anyone is thinking of anything like that then it would have to be you. I'm sure you think of Kaji enough like that" the air bender tried to counter while trying desperately to compose herself as best she could.

"Touche...I never knew you to be a mind reader Sylph" the green eyed woman replied with a wink. More laughter came from her as it was clear by the air bender's look she hadn't quite been expecting that answer. Smirking as Sylph now seemed to be left speechless once more, she turned her attention again towards the two males in the room. "On a different note, have you two decided what you'll be doing after the match yet?" she asked, though a smirk still remained on her face.

---------

Kaji's mind had resigned itself to the fact that this would be a rather painful match regardless when the sound of the door handle jiggling caught his attention. To say he was surprised to see his younger brother bursting through the door would have been an understatement. Kira moved faster then Kaji could at the moment and before the fire bender knew it he was pinned to his seat. He was even more so surprised that his brother had deduced what had occurred as fast as he had.

A protest welled within the older sibling, however he was soon stopped as the younger stated what he was about to do. Although he didn't quite approve entirely of the interference, the brief look in his eyes displaying that, he also didn't prevent it. Instead of biting his shirt however the fire bender merely clenched his teeth and closed his eyes, prepared for the burning and erupting pain as the intruding spike was ripped out.

Feeling the healing water upon his skin, stirred his internal fires, as if it knew it opposing element was upon the territory of fire although it was kept at bay although only just. He didn't make excuses this time around, after all how could one explain a spike in ones abdomen? Was walking and fell on it all of a sudden? That would have just been an insult to both his and his brother's intelligence there, so he didn't bother.

His eyes only opened briefly as his brother finished the healing and headed for the door, but not before receiving a rather ominous look and a few brief words that accompanied it before leaving the room, closing the door behind him. "Foolishness..." the fire bender quietly said, though whether it was directed towards his brother or himself was uncertain. 'If only you'd understand Kira...this fight is not truly ours and never has been...' he thought with a sigh. Most of his sibling's words hadn't really surprised him, all except for the fact that Heather wished to wish him good luck, he had expected. In truth, although he had asked the woman to train his brother, he hadn't counted on her really attending the match. Then again it seemed she had developed a friendship with the younger water bender, and in truth felt a sort of...connection with the shorter woman, which only surprised him more.

Sylph thought about Zeno's words for a moment before speaking. "Well then if you're not use to fighting without them, then you should be especially careful. It's not too late, perhaps we can convince the arena manager and other...responsible parties...for the fight if you could all wear them to make it fair and reduce the damage done to each other?" she offered, with a hopefulness in her tone, though she knew that it would be close to impossible now. Besides although it may be a disadvantage for Zeno, if they were all forced to wear them then it would be a disadvantage for Kaji, since she doubted guards were allowed such leisure from what Heather had said.

Heather's grin seemed to only increase at Kiril's reaction to her words. "See? Zeno doesn't even deny it" she teased playfully, sticking her tongue out at Sylph. She could see the air bender again try to silently ask for back up, though laughed as it became clear that she wouldn't be getting any from the earth bender. She figured of course that Kira knew that they were only really playing and teasing, for the most part, and that Sylph knew that as well. Her smirk only grew as the air bender seemed to let out a sigh, a sign of defeat. 'Heather 12, Sylph 9...' she playfully thought with a laugh.

Sylph couldn't help but catch the change in Kiril's expression as Heather questioned what they would do after the fight. Did something happen while he was gone? The air bender wasn't entirely sure, but before she could bother asking Zeno spoke up, shifting her attention. "It sounds like fun" the air bender replied with a happy smile. She hoped perhaps she could convince Kiril to remain with them as well, and get Kaji to come along too, then their little circle could be complete.

Heather nodded her head in agreement. "Hey if you're offering a shopping trip, who am I to deny it? I'd be more then happy to tag along" the female water bender replied with a nod. Her gaze drifted over towards the male water bender, who seemed to be in one of his serious trances. "I think Mr. Serious should come along too" she teased playfully winking.

The two girl's giggled as Kiril stated the pay was something he was use to and Zeno's reaction to it. "Well it does make sense since he is the arena champion and all" the auburn haired female interjected with a grin.

As Kira announced that he and Zeno needed to discuss a few things, Heather and Sylph both nodded in understanding. "Alright, alright I suppose we've bugged you enough. But no funny business you here me? If I hear that you two decided to talk about something other then the fight you both may be forced into my Boot Camp. And to save any sort of trouble I doubt Sylph would be up for nude modeling" she said with a teasing grin.

"Wait...what?" was all Sylph managed to get out, while a snickering Heather pulled her out by the arm.

As the two opened the door, Kaji had elected that time to 'escape' his and Alkaid's locker room, before the earth bender decided to come back and just on just how well the fire bender was doing. His attempts were soon thwarted however as a certain short female guard saw him. "Kaji!" was the only warning the red head had before being semi-tackled by the female water bender. "I'm glad your alright! I heard that Alkaid had wanted to see you before the match, and when you didn't appear to be in your room I thought..." the female rushed out almost worriedly as she seemed to uncharacteristically display her affection for the male guard as her arms encircled his waist, causing a red eyebrow to raise at the female guard's actions.

"As you can see I'm perfectly fine..." the fire bender replied, with clear surprise in his tone. It was a rather awkward situation for him, after all she was a fellow guard, and as wise as Kaji was in many other areas women were not one of his particular specialties despite it all. Sure he could be gentlemanly to them, listen to them, but to try and understand them...One minute he seemed to understand them and the next...well...On top of that the particular female clinging to him was one that he still had to sort out the relationship of. Uncertain of really what to do further he elected to calmly pat the top of the shorter guard's head in an attempt at comfort.

In truth it was somewhat comical to watch for the air bender. Here stood Heather, not much higher then the bottom of Kaji's chest. In her mind it looked as if a child were hugging a giant, although she couldn't help but smile. 'They're actually quite cute looking together...' she thought with a giggle before waving a hand quietly towards him and whispering a 'good luck', and received a polite nod of the head in return. She then turned to head to her seat and give the two guards a bit of time on their own before the start of the match.

"Heather...would you mind releasing me or at least loosening up your hold a bit?" the fire bender quietly asked. "I haven't seen you in a while!" the female protested, which caused again one of Kaji's eyebrows to rise, before she started to slowly push him backwards into the room. "You just saw me the day before yester..." was all that could be heard before both had entered the room and the door was closed.