Heather couldn't help giggling at both of the fire benders words. "At last something the 'great' and intelligent Kaji doesn't know" she teased the red headed one playfully. Her green gaze then set their sights on Altyre. "You mean that you're here for Slyph's companionship, we're just the added bonus. Oh well it does give you and Kiril a chance to 'size each other up' since it seems you two are rivals, at least in one aspect eh Sylph?" the darker haired female said turning her teasing to the dark haired fire bender and air bender.

In response the air bender laughed almost nervously as she rubbed the back of her head. "Whatever you say Heather" Sylph replied, finding that in that aspect it was probably better to simply go along with the water bender rather then argue against her at the moment. Instead the air bender refocused her attention back on Altyre who had again declined eating. "But if your stumbling upon us was all coincidence then what was it that brought you to a restaurant? Unless of course it was a 'coincidence' and you were secretly spying" she playfully, and with a bit of affection of her own, teased her friend, giggling with a light tone rather then an accusing one that perhaps someone else would have had with him.

Soon, though not exactly soon enough for Heather, the food finally arrived. As the fire guard and air bender had predicted almost the instant that the female water bender got her food she began shoveling some of her fries onto Kaji's plate. "You know if you weren't going to eat them you didn't have to order them" the fire bender said with a sigh. He knew there was no use telling her not to start mounding his plate with her food, after all he had gotten use to such things by now. It seemed whenever he and the shorter woman ate anywhere together, be it with other guards or our from patrol, the woman was almost hellbent on stuffing food down his throat and would on purposely order more then for just herself, despite his words.

"Well if fire benders would feed themselves better..." the female argued taking a bite out of her burger before shoveling a few more fries onto the other guard's plate. "I feed myself perfectly fine" the fire bender argued back, though seeing the sharp look in Heather's eye he knew it was no use. Giving Kaji a sharp and stubborn stare she quickly swallowed her bite. "Oh no I know much better. Fire bender seem to have a bad tendency to under eat. Even if I hadn't ordered all of this you still would have gotten something small. Let me tell you something Mister, you fire benders burn a lot of energy even when you're not in combat, and yet all of you seem to think you don't have to replenish it, and you are Exhibit A of this and he is Exhibit B right Sylph?" the woman stated matter-of-factly as she pointed first to Kaji then to Altyre.

When Sylph received her bowl of soup she still tried to offer some to the dark haired friend beside her, and seeing Kaji and Heather temporarily distracted she even tried to indirectly offer some to Kiril as well. She hadn't really been paying too much attention to Heather tangent, at least not until she and Altyre were addressed. Glancing towards her flirtatious friend she couldn't help but simply utter the response "Ummm..." before Heather seemed to go off again.

Kaji couldn't help but let out another sigh as the female water bender continued on and on about the importance of eating hearty meals, energy levels, how she couldn't understand fire benders not understanding the same as her as well as that he should have a good appetite like Kiril, and he was fairly certain there was something about baby making thrown in there as well which just puzzled him. At some point he managed to seemingly tune her out, making it obvious that the lecture he was receiving was a fairly common one. After a few more moments of letting the female continue her rant he again let out a sigh. "Alright, alright I get it. I should just shut up and eat the food and be grateful right?" he said quietly as he reluctantly ate one of the fries that had been forced onto his plate.

"Exactly, now was that so hard to realize?" she stated happily before digging back into her meal, as 'peace', at least from her, settled over the table once more.

When it seemed that Heather hadn't figured things out a sigh of relief covertly came from the contrasting benders. Then the firebender shrugged nonchalantly as Heather said that he'd come for Sylph's companionship. Under normal circumstances she'd have probably been correct but since his offer had involved two of the benders presently sitting at this table, this was an exception.

Both bender's attention was pulled to Sylph as she once more addressed the firebender. Altyre laughed off her accusation and shoved a thumb over his shoulder, "There's a window right there. All I did was look in and see you guys sitting here, so I came and joined." Knowing the airbender, she had no idea they were sitting next to a window with her obvious lack of awareness.

Soon enough the food arrived and Kiril immediately dug into his pot roast after offering up a prayer and both males declined Sylph's offer to have some of her soup. Altyre seemed to watch in bewilderment as Heather pounced on Kaji about how firebender having a habit of under-eating and Kiril calmly ignored the conversation acting almost as if he was the only person at the table enjoying a meal. The dark skinned firebender was impressed with his calm poise as his brother was verbally assaulted but he figured that the facade was a practiced one.

Heather was most definitely the loudest person at their table and by far the smallest as well. Neither bender could fathom how someone so small could manage to make so much noise and be so. . . demanding. By the time Kaji had conceded and made the woman quiet down, Kira was almost finished with his meal, and Altyre was trying his hardest not to laugh.

Altyre sat there politely in silence as the others ate and when everyone seemed to be close to finishing he finally addressed the red haired male across from him, "When you're done we should go ahead and get this interview out the way. I'm itching for some exercise, and you'll want to burn all that extra right off. Aye?"

Kiril was already done and had simply been sitting there quietly thinking to himself. When the foreigner spoke up he glanced up at him, then to his brother to see what his response would be. In all earnesty, the silvery-blue eyed male was interested in seeing both firebenders in action. He couldn't get his brother to be serious with him but if Altyre was as powerful as he'd felt before, then this islander probably could.

Sylph's gaze followed the direction that Altyre's jabbed at with his thumb. A light pink blush crossed her face as she immediately directed her gaze downwards in embarrassment. She hadn't noticed the window at all despite it being next to them. "You...just put it there...just now" she stated quietly, though it was clear she wasn't being serious. She could hear Heather erupting in laughter at her side and feel the comforting pat of her shoulder from the shorter woman. In truth it only made her feel even more embarrassed, but then again it wasn't as if she was the only one that was completely oblivious in this world, and with that she continued again into her soup.

Heather was practically rolling with laughter, while at the same time trying to 'comfort' the woman beside her. "Don't worry Sylph windows are easy to not notice. They're transparent and...ummm...well people always assume there's a window somewhere but we never really pay attention where" she stated, hoping her words would at least sound comforting, even if her argument this time around wasn't quite as strong as the one she put up against Kaji. Patting the air bender's almost delicate shoulders she resumed back to her own meal, while 'sneaking' a few more fries onto Kaji's plate.

Kaji was relatively relieved when Heather's attention switched from his eating habits to trying to cheer up the once more pinkened air bender. Although he had switched the water bender's attention to himself to avoid further questions about Kiril's kin, and inadvertently to their relation, but that didn't exactly mean he entirely enjoyed the attention, at least not in such a public setting where the guards were suppose to be considered 'respectable' and 'upstanding'.

Soon enough his attention was again focused on Altyre as the subject of his promised interview came up. A cautious gaze went towards the female water bender, who once more seemed engrossed into her own world and trying to smuggle more fries onto his plate, before answering. "That sounds fine with me. The sooner the better as well since I've a feeling things are about to get...busy..." he calmly stated before quietly finishing off his sandwich.

He had only ate a few of the fries that piled up on his plate. When he spied the female attempting to further increase the load he calmly held out a hand to stave off her attempt. "Alright enough" he stated closing his eyes briefly. His golden colored gaze opened however when he heard a slight noise of protest from the short female and gave her a serious gaze that seemed to immediately silence her defiance.

Heather was more then aware of how far she could push the calm fire bender, especially when he gave that look. Quietly she celebrated her victory of getting so far with him before she had reached the limit of his tolerance. Curious as talk of an interview popped up once more she turned her attention towards the dark skinned fire bender. "If I may inquire exactly what sort of interview are you...aiming for that requires exercise? Aren't interviews primarily questions and answers?" she asked raising an eyebrow. She could see why the other fire bender would be interested in the strongest fire bender in Einheit, or possibly the world, but what she couldn't figure out was why it was Kaji agreed to such a thing. Typically he avoided media personals or really anyone seeking information about either him or inside scoops about the government like the plague. Looking back and forth between the two fire benders she felt as if perhaps there was something she didn't quite know and it bugged the hell out of her.

Sylph was the second to last to finish her meal, despite the small size of it. She too was a bit interested about this 'interview' that her friend seemed to want to do with Kaji, but for a slightly different reason. She was more curious about possibly learning a bit more about the two fire benders, one to delve more into what she had missed over seven years and the other to possibly learn a bit more about Kira inadvertently through Kaji's answers since they were brothers after all. She wasn't sure what would be requested, but she hoped that she'd get a little more insight. "Is it a private interview?" she asked wondering suddenly if she, Heather and Kiril would even be 'allowed' access.

"Of course I did," he admitted jokingly following a bit of laughter. The girl was such an airhead it was hilarious but it was one of the little things that he liked about her. Truth be told, he wasn't 'in love' with Sylph per say, but she was the only woman who'd even caught his eye. Maybe it was because he'd known her for so long. He didn't really know what the reason was, but he did care deeply for her.

Both males laughed lightly when Heather tried to console the girl. It made things sound worse to both of them. Kiril promptly stopped laughing when he realized that both he and the dark skinned bender were laughing together. They shouldn't share any moments together. That was the way he felt.

Altyre nodded when Kaji agreed with his suggestion, "I agree. I think things will get, interesting here soon enough. I may stick around for the festivities." He winked at the firebender and smiled. He knew more about the political situation here that he would openly say. At least for now. Both he and the waterbender acted as if they hadn't seen the look Kaji gave to Heather in warning.

Turning his attention to Heather, Tyr gave the woman a friendly grin before beginning his friendly explanation, "When I interview people I do two part interviews. I have a Q&A session first but then I like to see their abilities firsthand. He's free to decline either portion or the interview in entirety, but it's all for my own personal curiosity," he answered honestly. Then he asked, "Besides, what good is it to interview someone and not get the chance to see what they can do for myself?"

This was a part of Altyre that would never change. He was a scholar. Always curious about something and forever looking to research things.

When Sylph asked him was the interview private he simply shrugged and looked to Kaji, "Is the interview private?" The male didn't have a preference but he would have to omit certain things if he agreed to the whole thing and everyone decided to come.

Kiril sat in silent anticipation. This was a chance for him to see how strong his brother truly was and just how strong this stranger was. He acted like a carefree fool most of the time but there was something extremely dangerous about him. The silver maned male had known this since the first time they crossed paths. Altyre was strong, but just how strong exactly?

Through her embarrassment, Slyph was delighted to hear both males laughing together, even if she felt it was directed towards her. Of course if it meant the two of them would get along she didn't mind. Of course Heather's comforting wasn't really helping much, making her pink turn into a semi-dark red. "Yep that's exactly what you did" she replied back jokingly as she attempted to lift her gaze from her lap up to Altyre. A smile was on her face, and with the colored embarrassment on her face it looked almost shy, although it wasn't exactly what she was aiming for.

Kaji quietly considered the question. There were a few things he wished to discuss with the fire bender in private, mainly involving the holding and picking up his brother by the throat incident. He still wasn't pleased with that aspect, and perhaps if it weren't for that he'd probably see the male in a slightly different light. He was still rather suspicious of the male and his intentions and he still wished to find out exactly what the male all knew. Of course if the others were to tag along he knew he would have to wait for another opportunity to have words with the dark haired fire bender.

He glanced first towards his brother and could see the anticipation in his form. He had no doubt that the water bender would want to know just how strong this foreign fire bender was, and if he was on his own level then he was relatively certain that he wouldn't be able to take things quite as lightly as he had in the past.

He didn't have to glance towards the still rather embarrassed looking Sylph, knowing already that she probably would want to spend as much time with her childhood friend as much as she could. From the sounds of it though he was planning on staying for a little while, but still far be it for the fire bender to keep the two away from one another.

He already knew Heather's take on it just from her questions. She wanted to watch and see just how he would handle the situation and any questions directed at him. Of course seeing the abilities of either would be a bonus to her, especially since he never really spent too much time with her outside of his duties like he was now. "It doesn't matter to me. Whether there are others there or not during our interview won't change too many things" he calmly replied after a few more moments of thought.

Heather nodded her head as she heard Altyre's explanation of how his interviews went. "I suppose you have a point, and firefly here can be a sight when he wants to be. Though I will say if you want him to take that off, I wish you luck. Not even Alkaid's managed it" she said with a shrug as she pointed towards Kaji's limiter glasses. Of course being where she was during her own career in the guards she had already seen what sort of destruction the fire bender could do, and to be honest it somewhat terrified her. On the other hand she could understand his reasoning behind limiting his infernos, but she knew if he removed it he could at least get the brutish earth bender off of his back, and it always confused her as to why he didn't.

Green eyes glanced around noticing that most had finished their food, and by most she knew it meant everyone but her. Looking down to her mostly eaten burger she quickly scarfed it down, without making a mess surprisingly, and finished off the fries that had remained on her plate. "Alright well now I'm done, so perhaps we should pay and watch the fireworks?" she asked with a chuckle and nudging Kaji's arm. She was relatively excited to see the fire bender in action outside of his duties, after all by the time she usually finished with Kiril's training the red head had finished with Zeno for the day and was busy with his other duties.

Altyre laughed a bit more at the girl before turning his attention to Kaji. He seemed to be mentally deliberating his response. When he'd finally come up with an answer, he gave the obvious one, "Now Kaji, we both know that's not necessarily true. If it makes you feel better I can answer those questions you have later on another date?" The dark skinned male was far too aware not to know that the other firebender had a few questions he wished to ask out of earshot of the others, and he would be happy to oblige. Confidentiality was something the male valued. It was also his livelihood.

Then as Heather chimed in, Tyr had to stifle a maniacal outburst, "Ha! You think he won't take those off? Trust me, he won't be able to impress me with his limiters on. It'll be a waste of both of our time." He glanced back over at the older red-head and smirked mysteriously, before turning back to the midget, "You shouldn't make wild assumptions without knowing anything about someone," he teased with a wink. She didn't know that he was known as Death incarnate to many people in the underworld, or what he was really capable of. To be honest, he wasn't even sure that Kaji could even impress him. He just wanted to see the white flames in person.

Kiril raised an eyebrow to the dreaded male's comment. It would be a waste of time? If he had thought that was a joke, he might have laughed, but the firebender seemed entirely serious even with that smirk on his face. More than that, he was unnaturally confident going against a male that was said to be the strongest bender of their generation. It was a public title and probably came because of his status as Einheit's -the largest country in the world- Commander.

The dark skinned male got up at the short emerald eyed woman's suggestion and tossed a few gold on the table to pay for the meal. It was far more than was necessary, but he'd always been generous. Kiril looked at the male in astonishment at how much money he'd placed on the table. The meal had only cost a few silvers at most and he'd placed a few gold on the table as if it was nothing. So either he couldn't count or his job was a well paying one. Putting that aside he rose from his chair as well and immediately made his way out the door followed closely on heel by the taller firebender.

One of Kaji's eye brows rose at Altyre's words. It wasn't exactly normal for him to be read so easily and it amused him. Nevertheless he nodded his head in agreement. For now he would postpone his warning to the male, however if the dark skinned bender chose to step out of line during the interview and endanger any of the others...well he would be finding out just how much of a temper Kaji could really have, and perhaps even have a close up of his white flames. As he then spoke of him removing his power limiter. The fire bender seemed assured that he could get him to remove it and that only furthered his amusement. He frowned however as Altyre spoke of impressing him. "I've agreed to an interview and a demonstration of my white flames, nothing more. I'm not a performing circus animal for amusement, nor am I out to impress anyone. I've certain reasons for wearing this and I can assure that nothing short of an extreme emergency shall force me to decide otherwise" the red haired fire bender stated flatly.

Heather couldn't help but giggle in return. "It's not a wild assumption in the least. I may not know much of you but I do know a fair amount about Kaji. From what he's just said I would have to say you've made the wild assumption about our firefly" she playfully teased back as she stood. As Kaji and Sylph came to stand as well it was made painfully aware just how short she was in the group. It was bad enough that Sylph, Kaji and Kiril towered over her, but here was this new foreign fire bender that was taller then even Kiril. 'Well I may be small but by god I can make myself mighty!' It was almost like a mantra for the short woman that she reminded herself of whenever she felt a bit self conscious with her height. Being around so many to much taller then her was a bit...depressing in a way.

Sylph slide out and rose from her own chair as the other two males went passed her. Seeing Altyre at his full height again made her realize how short Heather must feel all the time now that the male, that she swore she was a centimeter taller then when they were younger, towered over her. Perhaps if Heather stood on her shoulders now...It was an amusing thought that made her giggle, and she was certain the water bending female would probably have the same reaction.

As Altyre threw a few gold coins on the table her eyes widened slightly. "Altyre! You should save your money" she lightly chided as she had been reaching for her own money to pay. She could see the mixed amused and surprised expressions on the faces of the other three, and she was certain her own probably mirrored them. Heather seemed awestruck almost while Kaji...well he was a little harder to read since his mask was easily in place, although amusement tinted his golden eyes. Kiril seemed probably as surprised as she was, as she was well aware of the value of money since she essentially started out in Einheit rather...broke despite the reassurances she had made to her brother that she had plenty.

As the group began to move, Heather recovered from her shock and surprise rather quickly. She knew that asking him where he had gotten the money probably would have created more questions then solved any, after all he did say he couldn't really discuss his chosen profession. So instead she thanked him for picking up the tab, while reassuring that she and Kaji would get it next time. "So where are we heading to witness this interview anyways? If you're planning on doing fire bending then perhaps a training ground outside of Einheit would be best. After all the people seem rather riled up still, and I doubt seeing the head imperial guard suddenly fire bending his white flames will help the situation much" the water bender stated with a thoughtful nod of her head.

Altyre waved off Kaji's flat and almost hostile response and Heather's prideful rebuttal, "It seems you've take my words to heart? I think both of you misunderstand me. If I wanted you to take off your limiters, you would. I don't lie. But, as you've so elequantly stated Kaji, this is simply a demonstration of you ability. Things would be different if it were a test, I assure you." The male smirked mildly and winked to Heather mischievously. He knew a good deal about the all of them while they knew nothing about him, save Sylph and she didn't know much. It was an unfair advantage but he had to have it.

As Sylph demanded that he save his money the male shrugged and began walking off, "I have more than enough to spend. That was pocket change." To himself he sounded almost arrogant though he hadn't meant to sound that way but it was too late to take it back. Kiril held a hint of amusement in his eye but refrained from saying anything. He'd made quite a bit of money in the arena but not enough that he'd kick out a few gold for a meal that only cost a few silver.

Turning his attention back to Heather, Altyre simply shrugged, "Wherever you see fit." Kiril nodded in agreement with his fellow waterbender, "Then we should go to the training ground behind the Arena. It's closest and I agree that it'll probably be best spot for the demonstration." The firebender simply extended his hand asking for someone to take the lead and Kiril promptly did so.

The walk wasn't too long but it was long enough to realize that there was a bit of anticipation in the air. The Arena was close to the eastern edge of Einehit and there was a training ground outside the city walls that many combatants used. Kiril stayed silent as he lead the way wondering just what was on the dark skinned male's mind and what he really wanted from his brother. This all seemed far too convenient to him but since he didn't know what the man did, he couldn't judge him. Besides, he had stated that this was just a part of his hobby and not something to do with his actual job. But could he trust him?

Probably not. Although the situation in the Arena was more of his fault that the firebender's there was still a bit of resentment in regards to the way it turned out. Altyre on the other hand was silent on the way there but he looked highly amused as he took in sights and seemed to be completely carefree and unaware of where they were headed. Occasionally he glanced and looked at Sylph but the looks never lasted long neither were they really even frequent. They were just full of. . . affection. And that bugged the silver haired waterbender whenever he glanced back to see what the others were doing.

When they finally arrived he found a spot on the grass and took a seat. "I don't really care about the question and answer part, I just want to see the demonstration." Altyre smirked and nodded then waited for Kaji to get settled.

Once more a tint of amusement passed through Kaji's eyes. The other fire bender wasn't the first to make such a claim, however out of those that had very few had been able to accomplish the feat. "I would only if you had surmounted an army of thousands, managed to disable all of Einheit's defense, plotting to ravage, kill and torture our citizens both innocent and guilty, managed to defeat if not wipe out the entire guard squad, including Alkaid, then perhaps I'd consider it. I will not risk burning this city to the ground without just cause. Besides if it were a test I probably wouldn't have agreed anyways" he calmly replied with a shrug. He personally found no use in flaunting power, nor fighting simply for the sake of fighting. He needed a true reason to be driven to unleashing his full potential, although he knew deep down if it were beneficial for his kin he probably wouldn't hesitate as much.

Sylph's frown increased as she playfully and very lightly punched his well muscled arm. For a moment she wondered if he'd even feel such a thing before shaking her head and clearing her mind of the thought. "Just because you have plenty doesn't mean you should be quick to throw it down. What would happen if one day you needed it?" she stated, almost mirroring one of her own mother's many lectures. Of course it was done only out of concern and affection for her friend, unlike the claim she made with her mother where she liked to lecture only to lecture and hear herself, which wasn't necessarily true. Being the child of the woman of course constantly changed her more logical perspective of things to slightly more illogical outlooks.

"I think that'll work, although are you sure no other fighters would be there training themselves?" the shorter woman asked in a concern tone. Even though Kaji hadn't been really defeated, since he basically had forfeit the match, like Alkaid had she still held concern that some hot shot arena fighter might think that they could beat the lead of the imperial guard and cause a scene. Sitting in the crowds she came to find that many didn't exactly hold high opinions of the imperial guards, and she doubted if some of the fighters weren't the same way. Even as they made their way towards the arena's training ground she could feel the high tensions in the air, and glancing over at Kaji she could tell the guard was more then aware of the same. Although his demeanor showed the same calm, cool and collected Kaji she could tell in various ways he moved that he was as on guard as she had become, if not more so.

On their way to the arena, Sylph had chosen to walk as close to Altyre and Kiril as she could, although with one leading the other it was a bit difficult to be too close, plus she had no idea where the training grounds were for the arena and thus had to follow as well to avoid taking a wrong turn that she was so prone to taking. Then again she was now outside so a little lift into the air would at least help direct her some, unlike in the hall workings of the arena. Occasionally she could catch her friend glancing at her and would either direct a warm smile at him or playfully stick out her tongue, as she had a tendency of doing as a child, and giggle soon after before returning her gaze to the front, and indirectly towards Kiril's muscled back.

When they arrived Kaji wasn't too surprised as his brother made clear what it was he wished to witness. He knew how strong Kira's desire to see just what his elder brother was capable of, but each time the fire bender couldn't help but hold back. He was determined that one day though he would show his brother just what it was he could fully do, perhaps even without his limiter, but at the moment he felt the time wasn't yet right. Glancing around to get a better feel of what it was he'd be working with, he came to determine that he would still have to hold back a bit, least he risk damaging the arena owner's property. Naturally it wouldn't be a problem for him to replace, but he also had to consider of how it would look for the head guard, who had technically 'lost' the arena match destroying some of the arena's property. Tensions were high enough as it was with the people and he didn't wish to be the cause for the impending civil war.

Out of the corners of his eyes he could see Sylph coming to sit almost gracefully next to his younger brother while Heather plopped down on his other side, a mischievous grin set securely on her face. "You stated you wished to see my white flames, but what is it exactly you're wanting in terms of a demonstration? As I've said before it's really no different then my other flames, the same uses can be applied be they offensive skills, defensive or even something as mundane as entertainment used for the people during festivals, or even as something simple like a camp fire, though I highly doubt that was what you were aiming for" he said as he carefully checked his body's condition of just what he could pull off. Although he had manipulated the fight enough to allow the blows that came into contact with him, to make contact they still had a decent amount of power behind them, though nothing he couldn't handle.

Altyre listened to the man's words as he spoke and when he finished, burst out into laughter. "It wouldn't take all that for you to get serious with me," he said as he threw a glance in Kiril's direction before looking back at the redhead. "I do love that you would only use your full power in case of a dire emergency, but if I were to attack Einheit, it'd be the worse possible thing that could happen." Tyr spoke in a light joking tone but his eyes were as serious as could be. Then he shrugged, "Besides, if I attacked, you wouldn't have to worry about burning the city yourself. By the time the Imperial Guard even realized what was going on half the city would be on fire already," he continued to joke.

Turning his attention back to his airheaded friend after she punched him he shook his head in disapproval before leaning in to whisper in her ear, "I have enough money to buy this city and still live beyond comfortably," he told her with a wink. Then he gave her a ceremonial heavy pat on the head and ruffled her hair a bit, "Don't worry about me and what I'm doing. I can take care of myself. I promise."

Kiril shook his head at Heather's comment's, "No, I spoke with Dravin before the match and he told me that the Arena will be shut down for a few weeks for maintenance and it's due for some upgrades. So no one will be using the practice grounds behind it. He's sent all fighters home and told them to rest up before returning to practice and since Dravin said it, I'm sure that everyone will oblige." Dravin was the Arena owner. He's an old man and highly respected for his knowledge and his care for the fighters who participate. So usually if he asks something of someone, they do it out of respect for him because he takes such good care of everyone.

The Arena training grounds was this huge space behind the Arena that took up probably the same amount of space. There were decent sized ponds scattered through the area for waterbender's but other than that, the space was empty. Usually there were various training objects in the field but it looked like they'd all been removed for the time being, probably to discourage the fighters from trying to come train here over the break.

Kiril sat in silence as the girls both took a seat at both of his sides, and watched the two men deliberate the terms of the demonstration.

The dark skinned male seemed to be deliberating after Kaji asked about it. Then after a few short moments he seemed to come up with a satisfactory reply, "Well I was hoping for a demonstration of power where I stand at the opposite end and you send a fireball at me. This way I can see the flames and how destructive they are. Or is that out of the question?"

Kiril raised a curious eyebrow at the man's calm statement. This guy is crazy! Does he really think he could withstand that? Let alone live to tell about it? Then involuntarily he began to laugh. "That was funny!" But after making eye contact with the taller firebender it was obvious that he was dead serious. It was then that Kiril really began to wonder just how strong this guy thought he was. . .

Kaji could help but let out a quiet chuckle of his own. "How serious I am and how much bending power I'm willing to use don't exactly have as much of a direct correlation as it would be with Alkaid. One intelligent person who takes the threat of an army seriously can just as easily defeat them, just as a direct confrontation could defeat that lone person. So I could take a fight with you seriously, but that doesn't mean I'd use full force. That's simply not the sort of bender I am" he calmly explained with a shrug. It amused him almost to no end that the fire bender would seemingly joke about the threat he could pose to the city. He was well aware that the guards couldn't be everywhere at one time, however their network was rather extensive in many different parts. Still he shrugged at the male's words. "If you say so, though I won't lie when I say I could think of worse threats"

Sylph gave a playful pout as he ruffled her hair, causing her to swat a bit at his hand. "Still, as my mother always said you should plan for the future. I mean what if something like...like a...hmmm..." she said pausing as she tried to think of the worse possible situation that wouldn't result in death or be something a fire bender would have too much control over. A vat of lava was the first thing that came to her mind, but then fire benders could manipulate that to a point. Finally something popped into her head. "What if a tornado that teamed up with a tsunami were to suddenly strike and destroy everything and shot it out into...ummm space" she stated, although saying it out loud she realized just how ridiculous it really sounded. She doubted natural disasters were actually 'team up' let alone something like what she described having the chances of shooting objects into space, were relatively unlikely.

Heather hearing the rather outrageous example Sylph provided, couldn't help but burst out laughing. She had been expecting something like bandits or something along those lines rather then what was given. "You've definitely got an imagination there. I can't wait to see what your children will imagine up" she said in between her fits of laughter.

She was still laughing rather hard, though within a few moments it managed to die down, at least enough to hear Altyre's offer of how Kaji was to demonstrate. Seeing that there was no equipment around, and as Kiril said no other fighters, she figured that would logically be one of the few ways to demonstrate power, but then they were also talking about Kaji's white flames. "Not to interject but you boys may want to find a different way. If something were to happen and you ended up hurt or barbequed alive then firefly here would have to be placed under arrest with his head on the chopping block literally. Perhaps a non-human target would be best?" the female interjected before Kaji could say anything.

The idea of shooting a fire ball at another fire bender wasn't what didn't sit well with Kaji, but rather that it was his hottest flames that were being used. Kiril had stated that Altyre was at least his skill level, but then the male had said he had never experienced the rare white flames, so he doubted the male could bend them. The red head could easily reduce the power behind them, but since they would need to be white he couldn't prevent them from being completely deadly. There were two water benders with plenty of water to use, however even his dullest white flames could still evaporate the water as if it were nothing. "Perhaps if it were my red or possibly the dullest form of my blue flames it would be a slightly different story. Even with limited power and in the dullest form I don't think it wise. I could easily stop them before they would come in contact, however it will do nothing to show their destructiveness. And Heather does have a point. I really don't fancy the idea of shackling myself and going through a beheading for failing to observe my oath to serve and protect"

"I've noticed. And even I can't take down a city by myself. Maybe the Imperial Guard alone, but not the whole city," he replied. "Besides, we're speaking in hypotheticals, I have no ill will towards this great city. I've seen more than enough bloodshed and suffering throughout my life to want to spread it myself. So I'd just hire an army to do it." He winked at Kaji as he finished with a sly smirk on his face to signify this was all just a game to him.

As soon as Heather burst out in laughter, so did Kira and Tyr. Her idea was preposterous and completely illogical. The firebender waited until he was both done laughing and the midget had finished talking to speak, "I suppose if all that happened I'd have more to worry about than just my money don'cha think?" This woman's imagination must be on overdrive to even suggest something like that. Even Kiril was wiping tears from his eyes for laughing so hard. Maybe that was what made her so special.

Altyre listenened to the unofficial couple both give him advice about how dangerous his idea was and frankly he wasn't really listening. Though he made it seem like he was. When they'd both said their piece he yawned looking somewhat like a lion thanks to his hairstyle and sharp looking canine's. Then he stated bluntly, "If I was worried about my safety I wouldn't have suggested it." Meeting the golden gaze of his fellow firebender, the chocolate colored male smiled lightly, "Don't worry about me. I promise you, no harm will come to this beautiful frame. So just do as I ask for now please. You never know, you might be the one to see something interesting. . ."

Without waiting for an answer he started walking off, putting enough distance between them that he could gauge the heat and intensity of the flame before neutralizing it with his own. Of course he wouldn't do so openly, it would happen in the blink of an eye to keep his secret a secret. Growing up, Altyre could barely firebend at all, nor was he exceptionally strong. The one thing he'd always been was unnaturally fast and agile. His reflexes were second to none and he'd utilize that natural talent right now.

Kiril smiled in spite of himself, this guy was extremely confident and somehow managed to avoid seeming cocky or arrogant to him. Turning to Sylph he asked, "How strong was Altyre when you guys were growing up?" Maybe she could tell him something that could at least hint at what the man was capable of. He'd been here trying to sense his power again but still he couldn't feel anything from him and that bothered him. "I've been trying to get a read on his power and out of everyone here he's the only one I can feel. I've sensed it before but now there's nothing as if he's suddenly talentless. It's weird."

Kaji sighed and simply shook his head. If the male wished to believe it he could, so long as he didn't try to act out on it. Still he wasn't entirely sure the fire bender would be able to take out the whole imperial guard. Although Kaji's was at the top of the ladder there were still others under him that showed some true potential. He was certain if Alkaid could ever overcome his overconfidence and anger issues and actually thought his actions through he could pose as real of a threat as Kaji could if he ever gave into his flame's will to destroy everything. Still if what Kira had said before he could at least cause a fair amount of damage, or at least dwindle them down to the strongest benders within the guard unit.

Although even if the guard were to fall there was still one man out there who, although retired, could still probably defend the city as well as he could. There was an old ex-general that lived on the outskirts of town that had managed to triumph over Kaji when he was younger. Of course he had been fairly young and a bit naive then. He had never told a soul about the encounter that had been his first true defeat, and the fire bender had done everything in his power to make it his last. He had managed to redeem himself during their last encounter when Kaji had considered going for the head of the imperial guard. As a test to prove he was truly ready he had gone against the man once more and had been forced to remove his limiter. Even without it he had barely managed a win before succumbing to overheating. It had been a price worth paying however as he had proven he could at least handle the threat that Alkaid had posed even back then. Of course the earth bender was a bit different from how he was now. Back then he had a calm collectiveness about him that mirrored Kaji's own today, however after being defeated by the fire bender his outlook and personality changed rapidly and mirrored his true intents. That's not to say he still wasn't brutal before the defeat, but back then he held an intelligence that Kaji felt the earth bender had lost sight of that day. It was probably one of the only real reasons whenever the earth bender challenged him for his rank that he took him seriously since he knew well what he could be capable of.

Shaking his head he pushed aside such thoughts. "I hope you not think me disrespectful, but it's not just your life I'm taking into consideration. As Heather stated if something did in fact happen it would also mean my life was at stake, and I can't say I'm ready to end my existence just yet, nor am I entirely willing to trust my life to someone I'm not entirely familiar with. If you truly with a fire ball to be thrown at you, then you shouldn't expect one that isn't controlled or at full power" the fire bender calmly replied, as he actually did in fact shape a fire ball. Once formed it seemed to float just above the fire benders hands. It was clearly a very dull color of white, nothing like the bright white and powerful flames that he was capable of, but it was a bit more powerful then his brightest blue. It seemed to obediently wait for the fire bender's will to carry out the action it would be intended for, however since it was still staying in one spot and not yet hurtling towards an opponent it's nature became relatively clear. Although dulled in color it still could cast a light, as any fire could, but it was was the darker feel about it that made it clear it was not a harmless flame. Although Kaji could easily hide the malicious personality of his fire once it was freed it was out of his control to hide any longer. The fire crackled with a merciless tone, and if given a chance and freedom by the fire bender it wouldn't hesitate to carry out its destructive nature. "I suppose whenever you're ready, however as I've said regardless it shall be stopped at a certain point before it reaches you"

"Perhaps, but you'd still have money issues is my point" Sylph replied after a few moments as she tried to still turn her example over to the point she was steadily losing. Hearing the three laughing, and even a chuckle from Kaji, caused the girl to again downcast her gaze, but managed to avoid her skin turning its now almost usual pinkish tone. "It was either that or the sun exploding..." she added on quietly.

As Kiril questioned her on what she knew about Altyre's power from the past she had to think about it. "Well...bending wise...he had some difficulties and back then my brother was probably physically stronger, but Altyre was always quick on his feet. He always won the races against my brother, though I have a feeling that the ones I won he let me win. Despite that though in their sparring my brother usually was the one that would come out on top, but now...well he said that he's already beaten Nova a fair amount of times now during their last meeting. He's definitely bulked up more from when we were kids, but whether or not that's affected his speed I couldn't say, and as for how developed his fire bending is from seven years ago...I'm afraid I'm not sure either. If it's the same then...if he doesn't dodge then Kaji's fireball would probably burn him to a crisp" she said rubbing the back of his head with a slightly nervous laugh. It was clear in her eyes and tone that this 'stunt' they were about to pull had her rather worried for her friend's safety. "That said if you end up getting yourself hurt Altyre just know I'll be beating you up for it and I'll tell mother!" she called, trying her best to remain playful and hide her deep worry.

Despite the air bender's attempts to hide her worry, Heather could easily pick up on it. Reaching back around Kiril to place her hand lightly on the delicate shoulder, she gave it a reassuring pat. "Don't worry Sylph if anything Kaji won't let anything happen alright? Remember he even said that it wasn't going to be his most powerful so you needn't worry too much, right Kiril?" she asked the water bending male quietly to assist in her reassurance for the girl, though there was a glimmer of worry in her own eyes, especially after hearing about Altyre's past fire bending skills. Deciding to push away those thoughts of worry, as they wouldn't help anyone, she decided to focus her mind on her 'match making'.

'Alright you've got an opening Kira, now lets see if you take it...' she thought mischievously to herself. She had seen what she believed to be anger brought on by jealousy with the water bender in the restaurant when Altyre seemed relatively friendly with Sylph, so she figured now would be a chance for him as well. Of course there was a part of her that wondered if he would even see the opportunity. Although she was certain that he felt something for Sylph he seemed almost as stubborn as the red haired fire bender in seeing that the air bender also held something for him, or at least that's what she believed.

(Things are getting exciting lol)

The male listened with his back turned to Kaji as he paced away to a spot he felt was sufficient. When he arrived about fifty feet from the other firebender he turned around, he yawned. Then took a deep breath in exasperation, "Look, I understand that you don't know me and that's fine, but for a moment I going to ask you to have Faith. Here let me show you something." Opening up his hand, Altyre produced a fireball that was similar to the one in Kaji's hand but it was the basic red. Then he closed his hand and when he opened it again the flame was a dull yellow at first but it gradually turned into a vibrant gold. It was too intense to even be compared to yellow and it was so bright it was blinding, like a mini sun.

Kiril's mouth dropped -mentally- in awe as he shielded his eyes like he was shielding them from the sun. He'd heard that blue, green and yellow flames were the next tier up from red or orange but he'd never seen the other two colors in person. He was sure that there were probably a few other firebenders in the Guard that could use them but he didn't know of them, though Kaji probably did. He glanced to his sides to the women's reaction to this. He wasn't even sure that a yellow flame should even be that bright. Which only signified its power with that intensity because it was definitely more golden looking than yellow.

As the airbender revealed a bit of Altyre's past, he would've been a bit worried that the man would be in trouble if not for that demonstration. How much could he have progressed since then after all? Kira knew for a fact that the male hadn't lost any speed with all that muscle. In fact, he wondered if the male hadn't managed to get faster by some chance. The speed in which he'd moved when they had their encounter in the Arena almost wasn't natural. "Well I don't think he's gotten much slower and he's gotten a lot better at firebending it seems," he said to dispel her questions on those regards.

This time when Altyre closed his hand then reopened it -as Kiril uncovered his eyes- nothing reappeared, "I have another flame, but I can only show you if you give me a serious taste of your power." Mentally Kiril immediate wondered if he could use a white flame as well, because that was the only level higher. Wasn't it? Or did he control some different kind of flame that they didn't know about. He leaned over to Heather without taking his eyes off the two in front of them, "I thought white was the highest tier or hottest flame you could achieve?"

The dark skinned male stared at firebender across from him, his playful demeanor gone. There was a sort of edge to him that hadn't been there before although he didn't come off as dangerous quite yet, "You won't lose your life and neither will I lose mine. Honestly, I'll be surprised if a dull flame like that could even harm me. All I'm asking for is one good fireball. Go all out. I promise I'll neutralize it."

Kiril looked at his brother with eager eyes. He wanted to see this. More than he could openly explain to anyone. His brother at full strength even if it got the islander killed, but he didn't want his brother in trouble. Still, the man with the dreads had shown firebending talent that mirrored his brother's easily so it was doubtful that this was a bluff. "I think you should do it Kaji," he said before he could stop himself. It was the truth but he didn't want to force or add any pressure on his sibling by speaking out of turn.

Tyr ignored Sylph's complaints about his money and him getting hurt, she really didn't know just how much he had or what he was capable of. Which was fine. He'd keep it that way for now. Kiril on the other hand, hadn't thought anything of Sylph's warning to Tyr. It was just worry for a childhood friend, he hoped.

Kaji quietly watched the demonstration that the other male put on to reassure he'd come out fine. This wasn't the first time he had seen yellow flames, in fact he knew if he combined his blue flames to it they could even manage to produce green colored flames, but then the demonstration wasn't about his blue flames. An eyebrow quirked however as Altyre mentioned he held another flame that could only be shown if he went at the fire bender with a bit more then he was really willing. If the dark skinned male could use white flames as he could then there would be no need as they would essentially be equal in power.

Of course he had heard rumors of oddities in the world, but he usually dismissed them as they typically came from fire survival victims during his various past campaigns. There was on in particular that came to mind, but he quickly pushed the thought aside. "That's still asking for quite a bit. Underestimating even this dull of flame can prove to be a deadly choice" he quietly stated as he closed his eyes. His fires were practically screaming in his mind now to unleash them at full force and prove they were a force to be reckoned with. The fire ball in his hand flared malevolently, though still remained in Kaji's control as if to add onto the argument being made.

The fire bender was a bit surprised to hear his brother chime in, encouraging him to go all out. If there was any other to be the voice of reason, aside from his own, it would have been one if not both of the girls that were present, however both remained quiet, speechless in the display that was given. After a few more moments of mental deliberation the flames in his hand seemed to shrink slightly before suddenly blazing a much brighter white color that seemed just a step below blinding themselves. "I'll go as far as the limiter shall permit, anything further don't bother wasting breath in asking, as it will end up as a waste of your time and mine" the fire bender firmly stated, opening his gaze that now burned with dull fires in them, a unique hereditary trait he inherited from his and Kiril's father. The more power he fed the fires the brighter they would burn in the golden eyes, however with the glasses on it was limited to the dull fires that he held now.

Heather had been rather surprised to see the fire bender wielding not only red but rather blinding yellow fires. Like Kaji she had seen a few of the other guard members harness similar colored flames, though it was rare that any would get up to the same golden color that his seemed to display. She frowned however as Altyre stated he held one other fire that could only be displayed with Kaji's white flames at a higher power then what he seemed willing to give. Furrowing her brows in though she tried to remember if there were any flame colors higher or as high as white, though her mind was drawing a blank. "I'm pretty sure that is the highest you can get. I've never heard anything credible about anything higher or as high as white. I was always told the brighter the flames the more powerful they were and I'm fairly certain you can't go any brighter then white..." she whispered back to the long haired male beside her.

Sylph was relatively surprised as Altyre summoned two different colored flames. Being the air bender that she was she didn't fully understand the whole 'different colored fires' thing other then whatever Kaji, Kiril, Zeno, or Heather had bothered to explain. When they were younger the dark skinned male didn't have the same bending abilities that he seemed to have now, as he had, had trouble with just regular red it seemed. "You dyed your fire like Kaji dyes his?" she stated, knowing well that her response wasn't exactly the most...educational guess, but it was what she had. She had to agree that his abilities had changed a lot from seven years ago as it seemed it wasn't only his muscle mass that had grown. Even if Heather and Kaji weren't impressed she certainly was.

Heather couldn't help but mentally smack herself at Sylph's question, and soon enough she found herself lightly smacking the back of the air bender's head. "They don't dye their fires...Look I'll explain all of this in more detail to you later, but for now just keep in mind that red is the lowest colored flame and anything higher then that is hotter and more powerful" the shorter female explained with a sigh. It was at times like these that she could truly believe that Sylph's family was indeed secluded and reclusive from others. Some of the questions she held about bending the water bender had learned at a much younger age, but then she couldn't really be upset at the air bender. When it came to the element of air she seemed almost like a genius, but put her in any other element and she was certain an elementary schooler knew more, although the air bender's words had managed to get another chuckle out of Kaji at the very least before his expression turned serious once more.

Tyr inwardly thought, 'You're underestimating me,' but he wouldn't speak his mind right now. There was no need. His flames were black. Unheard of as far as he'd known. He'd done mountains of research to see if he could figure out what the equivalent of a black flame was but all he knew was that it was a more destructive power than he wanted. And admittedly, he wasn't all that great at controlling it once it left his hand. Since, white flames were the highest level you could achieve he needed to test his flames and see if they were on the same level.

When the firebender finally conceded it was a melody from Heaven to his ears, "That's fine by me." Since his limiter was on, this would dumb his power down tremendously but that wasn't to say that this wouldn't be strong or dangerous. His benevolent flames on the inside were in protest to his wild hobby but even they were itching for this test. It brought a slight smirk to his face as he thought about it. Then the male extended out his right hand as if he were going to shoot a fireball back but he was simply prepared to catch Kaji's. His left hand laid leisurely in his pocket as the male relaxed his body and sunk into a calm natural focus that had been as much trained as it was inherent.

Kiril nodding in conformation to the waterbender beside him, "I didn't think so." She apparently was on the same page as him in regards to the fire. Maybe there was something that they didn't know. Not likely, but possible. When Sylph asked her question Kiril physically slapped his forehead and left his hand there as he shook his head in disbelief. What exactly did he see in her again? Both Kaji and Altyre could be seen chuckling before they got serious again.

Everyone seemed to be glad for Heather's brief explanation before focusing on the spectacle at hand. Altyre stood there waiting patiently and Kiril seemed to be on edge as his anticipation mounted like a volcano waiting to erupt.

Kaji's white flames jumped and crackled within themselves with a sort of malicious glee and anticipation. Internally they tried to egg the fire bender on to remove the limiter, to let their full power be unleashed but the red head calmly ignored the raging fiery voices. His mind soon tuned everything out except for the flames in his hand and the target, which at the moment was Altyre's hand. There was still a pit of unease in his stomach, but if the other male truly believed he would be able to handle it then so be it. Of course Kaji knew if the opposite was in fact the case he would act as quickly as possible to snuff out the flames.

He took a calmed deep breath, once he was certain the dark haired male was ready, and on the exhale moved his arms to shoot the flames towards their intended target. Use to high speeds to take down their bender's threat, the flames shot quickly through the air. Given their bigger size however they were a bit slower then the arrows he commonly used, but they held a more destructive power. The fact he had chosen to use the arm movements, that most fire benders needed, rather then just using his mind to move them he felt helped to slow them down a bit. Of course it also helped conceal his mental capabilities with his flames as well. If there was one other secret he kept as guarded as his and Kiril's relation, it was just how much mental control he held over his flames when it came to delivering them. He was fairly certain that not even his brother was fully aware of it, but then again he couldn't fully remember if he had chosen to show it during their last 'sparring' match years ago.

As they sailed closer to their target, Kaji's dimly glowing golden gaze never once left the flaming inferno ball nor did he risk a blink. He knew even his control would be limited once they left his hand, after all fire was an element that could never fully be controlled. A fire bender could still get burnt or die from their flames if they weren't careful, especially at a higher tier, but he knew since they were small he could at least force them out and return to their agitated state within.

Sylph was clearly nervous and wracked with worry as she watched her childhood friend first position himself, ready to seemingly catch the fire ball that would be thrown at him, and then as the blazing ball of white rushed towards him. Her body grew tense and ever so lightly shook as she recalled stories of injuries that her parents would use to try and scare her away from the idea of setting out on her own, but it was thinking like that, that had caused her to ask some of the dumbest questions and she knew it. It wasn't until she felt a hand once more on her shoulders, that her gaze left the scene and came to rest on the female water bender on the other side of the male between them. She offered a quick smile at seeing a reassuring one on the auburn haired female's face before returning her light blue gaze to the scene in front of them.

Heather mentally prepared herself to move quickly in case healing would in fact be needed. Her own features had taken on a calm, that seemed almost misplaced from the usually fully expressioned female. Her own mental state had gone into the same sorts whenever she watched Kaji and Alkaid duke it out. Since she could bend water, one of the only elements that she was aware of that could have immediate healing abilities, she knew it would be one of her duties to ensure either male received treatment for any injuries that could incur from this little demonstration, although she wasn't too concerned about Kaji since he wasn't on the receiving end of the fire ball. Still out of the corner of her eye she could see how tensed up the air bender was, and for a moment turned her attention away to reassure the air bender that both of her friends would be alright in the end, before returning her attention back to the two males.

Kiril watched on in overflowing anticipation as his brother released the white flame. It had been years since he'd seen it and even then it hadn't been nearly as strong as this. His brother had vowed to never use those flames against him again and that in turn had motivated the younger sibling to force him to do so, by acknowledging his abilities. The situation was tense and he couldn't let his eyes off of the two in front of him as the white fireball said towards Altyre who seemed unnaturally calm given the fact his whole arm could be blown off if he didn't turn out to be as strong as he thought he was.

The gap between the flame and the other firebender's hand narrowed in little more than a second and just as the white flame seemed to make contact with the other male's hand, it vanished. Immediately Kiril jumped to his feet. "What the hell just happened?" He hadn't seen anything. Nothing left Altyre's hand and the flame had simply vanished? "Did you absorb his flame?!?" -the waterbender shouted without realizing he was shouting.

Altyre smiled and then let out a light breath before a chuckle, "That was nice. Though your power must really be severely restricted with those limiters on," he keenly noticed. In that moment that the white flame simply vanished, he'd released the same amount of energy from his black flame but only in the palm of his hand. Nobody will have been able to see it because the brightness and of the white fireball would have overshadowed the black fire that coated his palm.

Turning to Kiril as he placed the targeted hand in his pocket he shook his head, "No I didn't absorb his flame. I'm not even sure that could be safely done. I simply nullified it like I said I would. It's not like it took much effort," he annouced calmly.

Kiril was stunned. Utterly and openly so. His jaw was slack -slightly- and it took him a while to regain his composure. Once he was back to his normal introverted self, images and ideas ravaged the forefront of his brain. How did he nullify that? Does this mean he's an S-rank? Can he use the white flames or was that something else? Can you even nullify the white flames with anything less powerful? And the questions kept coming.

Tyr looked back at Kaji, crimson meeting gold, and then he gave a polite bow. "Thank you. I've learned quite a bit and I am rather impressed. The white flame is as powerful as they said they were. If I'd been a lesser man, my arm would be gone, but I appreciate your Faith in me."

Turning away from him, the dark skinned tower walked over to Sylph and embraced her tightly, "It's okay, you can relax. I told you I'd be fine." Kiril immediately tensed up in rage but soon realized that the airbender was probably worried out of her mind for him. Whether he liked it or not, the two of them had grown up as childhood friends and they were close. He wasn't sure if there was anything more there but he was sure that he didn't deserve to get upset right now.

Walking over to his brother, the younger male gave him a pat on the back and whispered, "So did you actually use all the power you could with the limiter on?" He wasn't trying to set his brother up or anything but he was genuinely curious. He'd never seen anything close to Kaji's abilities at full power but it was probably the closest thing he'd get until they matched up evenly one day. "I'm thinking he may be even stronger than he claims to be."

In that moment that the fireball had vanished, Kiril was reading Altyre's power and just for that brief moment there was a surge of overwhelming power stemming from him and that was what had made the waterbender leap to his feet. The two bender's that were with him today could likely become the faces of their generation. That is, assuming Kaji wasn't already.

Almost immediately a flood of piercing shrieks of rage erupted into Kaji's mind the moment his flame disappeared, as his fire flared internally at being snuffed out so easily. The fire bender himself was a bit surprised, as he wasn't entirely sure what had occurred, but he managed an idea despite his shrieking internal flames. 'Well it seems I'll be having a headache for a few hours now...' he thought with a sigh. Even though his powers were limited he was almost certain that with the white flame the only thing that could do such a thing would be another white flame. Of course listening to what his fires were telling him that didn't make the least bit of sense. Then again it was hard to make out any words really when a raging voice was shouting in one's head.

Doing his best to ignore the screaming shouts in his mind and the surge of power restricted by his limiters trying to break free, though failing, he turned his attention towards the other fire bender. "That was about one sixteenth of power that was in those flames, very few have been able to come away conscious let alone alive. If I didn't know better I'd have to say you could manipulate the same flames as I in that instance, however 'something' tells me otherwise" he calmly replied, getting as close to praise as he could for the time being. He could feel the continued pressure of his flames and knew that later on he would have to let them completely exhaust themselves in his more secretive training ground that was a safe distance away from Einheit, later on in the night.

For a moment gold and crimson locked before Kaji calmly closed his eyes and forced his powers to recede. He opened them again when he felt a pat on his back and saw his brother beside him. "Of course, I'm usually good for my word am I not? And I wouldn't doubt it. My flames don't exactly disappear on their own nor would they be as agitated as they are now if that weren't the case" he replied with a quiet chuckle. He was taking it much better then a bender like Alkaid would have if his stones ever made a disappearing act like that. "I will say I didn't have complete faith. All in all I was prepared to immediately snuff out those flames if they had managed to catch hold. Though I agree if your skills were any less there wouldn't have been much that could have been done to save your arm or perhaps that whole side of your body. I presume though you're satisfied?" he calmly inquired as he didn't wish to send his own flames into a further rage then they already were.

Even after the flame that had been hurtling towards her childhood friend suddenly vanished, Sylph body remained rather tense. Closing her eyes tightly she expected to hear some sort of explosion or shouts of pain and horror. It wasn't until she heard the voices of all three males and felt the embrace of Altyre. Without hesitation her arms threw themselves around the towering bender as the tension slowly seeped from her shaking frame. Tears of relief and release of tension welled up in her light blue eyes, though she didn't really want to shed them in front of so many of her friends, or in front of Kiril and Altyre. "You're not allowed to do that again" she said burying her face into the lower part of his chest. Of course she knew she couldn't forbid him from such acts, but at the moment she just needed to say it to relieve the stress that her worrying had ended up causing. She was beyond relieved that the fire bender was alright, though after she had composed herself more she would be doing a thorough inspection of his hand just to make sure, despite whatever he said.

Heather was probably about as shocked as Kiril was, though her mouth literally hung open. She had waited for the exclamation of pain that she figured would be coming from the taller male, but what she hadn't expected was the flames to completely disappear. At first she thought perhaps the red haired fire bender had chosen to extinguish the flames, however after seeing the dimming glow of his fire in his golden eyes she doubted that was the case. If he had done so she knew that the fires would have also been extinguished completely from the golden orbs. This of course led to confusion for her. Was Altyre able to also wield white flames or did he have some other trick up his sleeve? She was a bit surprised that Kaji didn't attempt to find out what exactly had happened, nor that he didn't quite react the way she had expected, after all his flames had just suddenly disappeared.

She frowned at the explanation given. 'Nullified? I've been around on the bending block a few times and I've never heard of a technique that could do that to white flames...Even water can't extinguish them without the help of a fire bender...' she thought with a shake of her head. Her eyes trained on the tallest male as he went to embrace the air bender, and waited a few moments for Sylph to recover some before speaking. "Alright what exactly did you do? I've never heard of anything 'nullifying' flames other then flames of the same strength. Were you actually able to wield them and just led us on or something?" she asked, voicing her suspicions.

Tyr nodded to confirm he understood the other firebender. It seems we're about equal in strength when it comes to bending. He smirked at the other male's assumption about what happened. He was right about it being 'something else'. Though he'd tell if someone asked. Maybe.

Kiril agreed that his brother was an honest man -if not secretive- and if he said they didn't disappear, they didn't disappear. Neither of them were completely open with each other about everything, Kiril knew this, but when they spoke to one another they never lied about anything either. This Altyre really is strong. "So I suppose this makes him an S-class like you?" Not that he needed the conformation but hearing Kaji say it would help it sink in he supposed.

Tyr chucked, "Yes, I believe I'm satisfied. I can now say that I'm at least on par with you," he added with a playful wink. Turning his attention back to the young woman buried in his chest he placed a hand gently on her head and stroked her hair gently, "Alright. Alright. No more stunts like this," he reassured her softly. For now. At some point he would be prone to reckless behavior again but while he was with her, he would refrain for her sake. Her innocence was what he thought was truly attractive. It was something he'd lost years ago now.

Altyre looked up when Heather finally addressed him and he smirked, "So you want to know my trick?" He seemed to be deliberating for a moment before he broke his embrace with apologetic eyes, "I did promise I would show him something interesting if he went along with my request so I suppose I owe you guys."

He waited until everyone had gathered around, and to their credit they were smart enough not to stick their face near his outstretched hand, then he made a fist. When he opened his hand again there was a flame similar to the one's he'd made before but yet completely different. The heat radiating from this flame was immense but the most odd thing about it was the fact that it was black. . .

(Before you know it there'll be rainbows. XD)

Kaji calmly nodded his head at his younger sibling's question. "Aye it seems that way. If he were an A rank he wouldn't have been able to withstand that level of my flame, at least not entirely, nor would my flames be in such a frenzy as they are now. I've no doubt he's and S class fire bender" the fire bender quietly replied. He placed a hand on his brother's shoulder, giving it a small pat before letting it fall, least Heather return to the topic of 'who Kiril's brother was'. He was also aware of his brother's feelings towards fire benders, or at least he had a hunch, after all the water bender was technically suppose to be the stronger element and now himself and another fire bender were above his waves. 'Soon enough you'll catch up I'm certain of that' he thought quietly to himself before redirecting his gaze towards Altyre. It seemed his flames had gained a rival, however he personally felt no desire to pursue a battle of dominance even if his flames felt differently.

Hearing his words helped Sylph's nerves slowly return to normal as she nodded her head, face still buried in his chest. "Thank you Altyre" she said quietly, although she was aware that the actual sound of her words would probably be slightly muffled. After a few more moments she managed to relinquish her face from its hiding spot, giving the taller fire bender a soft and warmed smile of affection. If her arms still hadn't been securely wrapped around him in an embrace she was certain she probably would have laid another kiss upon his cheek.

Soon enough though Heather questioned what exactly had happened, making her once more aware that there were quite a few others in the immediate area. Then again she hadn't done anything of too much embarrassment that would at least color her cheeks and face, but soon she felt the taller fire bender's arms slip from her as their embrace ended. She could see the apologetic look in the dark skinned male's eyes and gently nodded her head, giving him a smile to assure him that she understood. Besides now that her stress and worry had been dissolved she had to admit she was a bit curious as to how her childhood friend managed to 'make the fire disappear'.

Heather patiently waited for Sylph and Altyre's moment to end and was rather pleased that the male agreed to show just what exactly he had done. As they gathered around, though not too closely, she immediately stationed herself in front of Kaji. She figured if anything it was the 'safest' place, plus she was short and it gave her an excuse to stay close to the golden eyed guard. She watched on with anticipation as the Altyre closed then opened his extended hand revealing a flame that she certainly had never seen before. Even from her position she could feel the immense heat coming off of it and felt it seemed to resemble Kaji's white one. "That's...what...Uhhhh how...it's black" she mumbled in surprise. She had personally never heard of a black flame before, which struck her as odd since it seemed to be relatively powerful and a high tier. 'Is it an unknown level above white?' she thought, but immediately shook her head. No it felt the same in all honesty. She glanced up, hoping the fire bender behind her could provide the answer, but as their eyes briefly met the fire bender calmly shook his head, stating he didn't have the answer she sought.

Kaji was rather surprised to find a flame that felt so similar to his own and yet the color was entirely different. Perhaps there had been something to the rumors he dismissed. He could feel his fire's welling up inside, almost 'hissing' as if a cat at the show of the black flames, and felt them try to rise up to attack it. 'Down' he calmly commanded and forced his fires to once more recede and quiet themselves. His golden gaze studied the odd flames from his spot. They felt about the same intensity and power as his white...A mimicry perhaps? No there was no mimicking flames when it came to power. "Interesting...it seems the world still holds mysteries yet" he said with a chuckle. He could see the question in Heather's eyes but he personally held no answer to them, other then far off rumors from years ago, and even then he wasn't sure how entirely credible they were.

(Seems like it's coming lol XP)

"Well he handled it with ease it seems." Kiril's eyes looked warily between the two firebenders, he had a ways to go still. It was blatantly obvious, and now that he knew just how much power -in general estimate term- that his brother had, there was a realistic goal to aim towards finally. All this time he'd thought he was closing the gap between them but in actuality he really had barely gotten any closer to his sibling at all. Not only would he have to work twice as hard, but he'd have to work himself to exhaustion everyday so that he could slowly narrow that valley. Kaji didn't let anyone see him workout, but Kira knew that he did outside of prying eyes. So with this new insight, his true training would begin now.

After everyone had gathered around but not too closely, Kiril tuned in to see what exactly Altyre had done to 'nullify' his brother's white flame. Though what he saw, he'd never expected. It was a black flame, burning as hotly as a fire ever could, or at least hotter than any flame he'd ever been around before. The male waterbender whistled in awe, "I've never heard of a black flame before and I've done a lot of research on bending in general." This was a pretty spectacular sight to see, and they were probably the first to witness something like this.

Tyr closed his hand after allowing them all a moment to take in what they were witnessing firsthand. To be honest he hadn't ever used his black flames in front of anyone before but now that he had it felt a little relieving to see people in awe. The looks on their faces were priceless. He smirked slyly and then closed his hand slowly extinguishing the fires. "I haven't shown anyone else this ability nor had in intended to so I would appreciate it if you could keep this between us."

Kiril nodded. He already had ammo against him though that wasn't the reason he agreed to stay silent. The male had gained a bit of respect for the man. He was stronger than almost any benders of their generation and he still hadn't show that power off to anyone? It took a man of integrity to do that, and as goofy as the male tended to act, he was really quite down to earth and friendly. Which was another reason he really didn't like him. He wanted to not like him, but it was hard not to admittedly.

Kaji calmly nodded his head in agreement. "Yes he was able to nullify my white flame, however his fires didn't over take it either. Typically when a stronger flame is pitted against a weaker one it will completely consume it, which means the flames appear to be equal in power at least" he continued on, occasionally pressing two fingers against his temple. His headache was already starting to form from the screeching rage of his flames, but he wasn't going to let that drag him down just yet. His gaze continued calmly studying the flame that seemed to rival his until it was extinguished.

He was a bit surprised to find the group was the first to witness the foreign fire bender's black flame. The red haired bender had been similar when his white flames first took shape, however circumstances soon forced him to reveal his rare ability. As Altyre asked for them to keep quiet about it, Kaji calmly and silently agreed that he would with a nod of his head also. He could understand the male wanting to keep his power hidden, after all those with power were forced up on a pedestal generally, as he was. Given the choice however he would have preferred to remain out of the lime light, but then at the time the choice hadn't exactly been his to make. Plus it would be good to hold such knowledge, since he had made a similar request with his and Kiril's relation.

Heather was fascinated by the flames, although personally she preferred Kaji's simply because they were his. She noted that the feel of them in general was a bit different from the other guard's flames as they didn't seem to hold such a malicious aura about them as the white had. This of course intrigued her more. She had assumed, for the most part, that those with high tier flames would generally have fires that were similar in personality to one another, yet here was a bender with black flames that didn't hold a malevolent feel at all. Shaking her head she had to agree with Kiril. "Can't say I have either, at least again nothing that could be deemed credible. During your first term of service you hear things now and again, but half of them are based more on fairy tale then reality. I'll be more then happy though to keep this quiet rather then spread another gossipy rumor" she said with a nod.

The flames were impressive, but Sylph was more impressed that Altyre had managed to overcome his limited bending abilities and could summon any type of fire as well as use it. He grew as a bender and that was what her mind mainly focused on. Perhaps it would have been slightly different if she had truly understood the significance of a flame color that had been unknown until now, or really anything about fire bending hierarchy, but for now she was more proud of her friend then his flames. "I'm just glad to see you're able to produce and control fire at all. I know it was...a challenge for you when we were younger" she replied giving the dark haired bender a brilliant smile. Naturally she would keep his black flame a secret since he had requested it, and she could in fact be trusted to keep the secret all the way to her grave. Perhaps when it came to elements outside of air she wasn't all that educated, but she knew how to keep things she learned quiet. In fact she could still recall a time that Altyre had hidden her brother's prized sword as a practical joke, and had kept who the true culprit was silent from her brother when asked, even if it was difficult, though she had managed to avoid flat out lying to her brother she still had kept quiet about what she knew.

Her gaze then quietly turned towards a different section as the sound of voices on the wind reached her ears. One advantage to being an air bender was that it was difficult for people to sneak up on you if you paid enough attention. "It seems a small crowd is heading this way. I'm not sure who exactly, but to avoid suspicion perhaps we should move elsewhere so that you may be able to continue on with your interview? I doubt they'll be moving any further then here from the sounds of it, so perhaps just a bit further that way would suffice?" the air bender suggested as she nodded her head towards the wooded area that marked the outskirts of Einheit.

"Depending on what's asked, that may be a wise idea" the golden eyed bender replied with a nod. He wasn't entirely sure what sort of questions, if any really, would be asked but he wasn't entirely comfortable about revealing too much with a stranger crowd around.

'Who's to say they couldn't have,' Kiril thought silently. Not that he didn't believe in his brother's power but they had no idea how strong this guy was either. With how easily he simply nullified Kaji's flames, there was a chance that maybe his black fire was stronger than his brother's white. On top of that, despite Altyre's flames being black, they didn't have the same feel as Kaji's. His brother's felt angry or aggressive where as the dark skinned male's felt more like they were harmless. He knew better than to touch them, the heat was real, but that was how they felt to his gut.

Turning his attention to Heather as she spoke, Tyr nodded and gave a slight bow of gratitude to all of them, "Thank you. I'm well known to the people who needs someone with my talents but no one really has any idea what all I'm actually capable of so, I appreciate the favor," he announced with true gratitude oozing from his figure.

As Sylph explained the reason why she was impressed the islander simply smiled, "I've come a long way with rigorous training. I didn't have an easy life when I left Bierdt." Though he was smiling it was obvious that the subject wasn't something he wanted to talk about. One could tell that easily from his somber tone. "But thank you anyway. All three of us have gotten better. Besides you were always an amazing airbender even when we were younger. Both you and your brother are superbly talented."

Both males nodded in agreement that they should leave the area after the fire and airbender's had said their piece. "Sounds like a plan. Though I don't really have anything to ask now that I've witnessed for myself what you power is like. So the interview is over." Kiril was a bit surprised at those words, though he didn't reveal that openly. "Well, then maybe we should all get some rest. I'm tired from the battle today. Kaji, you and Heather will have duties to return to soon enough so maybe we should just call it a day?"

"I think that's a wise decision. I've taken up enough of your time and I don't mean to impose any longer than needed, so I'll be headed back to The Wolf. If you're seeking me out for anything, that's likely where I'll be. Feel free to stop by." With that said he gave the others a curt nod and Sylph a short hug then made his exit.

Kiril agreeing with the lean firebender took this chance to make an exit as well, "I'm headed home. I'm going to bed now," and promptly left. He had things to think over and some questions he wanted to ask Altyre but not now. After he sorted through everything in his mind and his thoughts weren't so jumbled, he'd go see the male, but for now he really just wanted to rest. After eating and all the excitement, he was just now realizing how fatigued he felt and was ready to lay down.

Altyre's words only added further mystery to what it was the male's profession was that would require a fire bender of his talent. The wheels in Kaji's mind turned and processed the information. He had a better idea of what it was the dark skinned male did, however he didn't have a definite answer still and he doubted, based on what the dark haired male has said earlier, that he'd get an answer out of him. Either way the red headed guard figured he would figure out the puzzle later as he was reminded that tomorrow he would have to return to his guard duties soon enough. Tomorrow he was suppose to be permitted the day off, but after today's incidents in the arena he doubted that would be the case. 'I should probably expect a summons to the council tomorrow...' he thought with a mental sigh.

He was a bit surprised that Altyre didn't wish to ask anything further, after all it seemed more like a test of power then an interview really. He could sympathize with the male about a rough life, however that didn't exactly change the fact he still needed to address the issue of what could have been potential harm to his brother earlier on. He wouldn't outright threaten the male, however he would still let him know that any further hostile acts towards his only kin would not be tolerated nor would it slide by as easily as it had this time. Of course that would need to wait until later, and the male did say he would be at the Wolf Inn as well as that he would be staying in Einheit for awhile.

He nodded his goodbye as the crimson eyed male gave his nod of departure. He was a bit relieved that for now an altercation hadn't occurred, after all with all that he knew was currently mounting on his plate, the last thing he wanted to worry about at the moment was fighting someone who was easily at his level of fire bending. His fire may have been rearing to go and wishing to take apart the male, but Kaji himself didn't desire such a thing. Besides he still needed to get in at least one more of his training regiment tonight as well as do a little fire venting in his more secluded and private training grounds.

He nodded a goodbye to his brother as well when the water bending male stated he was rather tired and heading home as well. "I've still a few things I'll need to finish up before I can call it a day. Have a good night though, you've definitely earned your rest today" he called before turning his focus on the two women he was now left with. "Technically you Heather still had guard duties today, but given the events I'll let it slide. I expect you though to be ready to resume at least by tomorrow" he calmly stated raising an eyebrow at the water bender.

"They were mostly done when I left this morning. I tried to finish them early so I could watch the three of you...Are you going to head in and check on Alkaid though?" the dwarfed female asked with a frown. She soon relaxed however as Kaji nodded a negative to the question. She really didn't like the idea of anyone checking on the brute, after all when the earth bender woke up she was certain there would be hell to pay, and the last thing she wanted was for the fire bender to be stuck with it. "And don't worry I'll make sure everything runs smoothly tomorrow in yours and Alkaid's absence...Well mainly yours since you are the head and Alkaid I never thought pulled the weight of his position. Either way I'll make sure you don't come back to a mess alright?" she said with a chuckle.

Seeing Altyre hugging the air bender goodbye, even if it was brief had emboldened the water bender. Risking quite a bit she went and hugged the man who held her affections and technically was her commander all in one package. She could feel his inquisitive eyes on her, however she didn't dare to meet them. Instead she soon ended the hug of affection, turned, and retreated towards the direction of her own home before he could say anything.

Sylph was also a bit surprised that Altyre didn't wish to ask questions, after all wasn't that what an interview was? Well either way it was technically the fire bender's choice on what he wished to do, so she didn't mind. A sympathetic look appeared in her eyes as she closed the small distance between them when Altyre spoke that he had come a long way since they were younger and reminded again that he hadn't lived an easy life. Lightly she placed a hand on his cheek, giving him a warmed and affectionate smile. "Hopefully now though it'll be much easier for you, and your hardships behind you. I can tell you've definitely earned it" she replied quietly and sincerely. She knew that there were still many trials for everyone in the future, though what they were none would know until they've encountered them, but she hoped that Altyre's would be at least a bit easier for him from now on. Naturally she would do whatever she could to help ease whatever burdens he faced, even if she wasn't aware of what they were, now that they had been reunited after seven years. Of course the same held true in her heart for Kiril as well, and though she would be willing to help any of her friends it was these two males that she would go to more extremes for she felt. She giggled a bit as he mentioned that her and her brother seemed rather gifted in their elements. "I've still got a relatively long way to go myself before I feel I can actually be any good as an air bender. Unfortunately my own skills aren't all that much different from when I was younger. Maybe a little bit stronger, but not by much" she said with another light giggle.

She gently returned the brief hug as the taller fire bender soon announced that he was calling it a day and gave his nod of goodbye to the rest. The light haired air bender was certain she'd be seeing him soon enough once more, either by her seeking him out or vice versa. She then turned her attention towards Kiril as he too announced that he was heading towards his own home and to his bed. She agreed with Kaji that he had definitely earned it. "Good night" she called towards the water bender offering him a quick hug as well. Soon enough she realized she had forgotten to ask if they were going to have a training session tomorrow or not. Shrugging her shoulders she decided she would arrive at what had become their training grounds tomorrow at their normal time just in case. Of course if there wasn't an intent for one she would at least be more then happy to help, cheer on and watch the water bender now that Zeno had run off.

A bit of sadness entered her mind as she thought about the earth bender and hoped that he was alright. Of course it also reminded her of something. She waited until after saying her good bye to Heather before she turned her attention to Kaji. "Kaji I...have a request...or rather a question for you..." she said a bit hesitantly, earning her a quirked eyebrow and nod for her to continue. "Exactly which hospital was Alkaid sent to?" she asked knowing well the question that would come next.

"...If I may ask why is it you wish to know?" the fire bender asked calmly, already having a bit of an idea of where this would soon be going.

"Well...Zeno saw Alkaid more as a friend...And I wanted to be able to at least check on him while Zeno's away...just in case he writes or contacts me so I can tell him how his friend is doing. Or at least let his family know so that they could in turn let him know" she quickly explained. She had never really officially met Alkaid or been around him. Rather she just heard various stories about him and occasionally saw him patrolling around the town, when he wasn't rampaging. Either way she felt it was important to at least keep Zeno informed some way so he wouldn't worry about the elder earth bender.

Kaji was clearly hesitating about giving her the information. After a few moments though, and the air bender pulling a trick that Heather did with her eyes to get the fire bender to do something he clearly didn't wish to do, he finally relented. "Alright I'll...tell you which hospital...but you aren't to see him without an escort understand? Even injured he's still relatively dangerous, especially now" he warned after a few more moments. Once he received the nod of confirmation he told her which hospital he had been relocated at, information he had gotten earlier from the passing guard that announced he was alive to him and Heather. It was on on the far east side of Einheit and was known to be one of the best in the surrounding countries. He was a bit surprised when the air bender nodded and stated she actually knew where it was roughly at, after all she was never good with directions. The air bender then quietly said her own goodbye, though not before again saying that she wouldn't go visit the earth bender without another person there with her. Something told him though, as she turned and left, that trouble would soon be on the horizon.