#11. Preparations
#16 of Origins
Notice;
Names have been altered on purpose to protect the identities of the living and the deceased. Comments are welcome like always but, please keep all negative feedback to yourself. Merely out of respect for those that I've lost recently and over the years, Thank You.
Special Shout Out;
In loving memory of all those that showed me the way whenever I got lost or distracted. I miss all of you horribly but, I know you're still watching over me from above.
(Launa Moon Viander, Sabrina Breckenridge, Lady Azrealle aka Azzy, and Sayber are all owned by, https://xennydiemes.sofurry.com/ )
"Ah, what wonderful timing, Fiera please come in hun and greet our guests." Ballista said. The sliding door opened slowly revealing a tall, lovely gold and black wolf fox. Fiera and I go way back she's always been there whenever I needed a friend. She's someone Yvonne can count on along with Ballista in case I'm away. Seeing my old friend/rival again did my heart good knowing she's still around.
"Nova, oh my god look at you the last time I saw you, you weren't fuzzy. To be honest the fur coat and tail suit you a lot better than when you were human. So what's going on and what can I do to help you out like I use to before you left?" Fiera asked. First thing I did was have her sit down, made intros then explained everything. Next I allowed her time to process it all first before asking her opinion about it.
Scratching the back of her head then looked over to the right and sighed. "I agree with Ballista that sorry doesn't seem to cut what you've been through. Gina was special I knew that from the moment I saw the two of you together. Losing her then having all this power unleashed I'm amazed you're still with us. Nova whatever you need me to do all you have to do is ask and I'll get it done." She replied.
"My sister is going to need someone to keep her safe when I'm not around. You and Sensei are the only two people I can entrust with watching over Yvonne. She's currently with Sensei Sali at her dojo, probably getting registered as a student. I could also use a sparring partner while I finished up the last of my studies." I stated. Fiera didn't need to be asked twice the wolf fox was more than happy to help me out.
"You do realize what you're getting into here Fiera, Nova is untrained magically. From what Azzy and myself understand he can only use his powers by reflex. What makes it worse is this power is something we've never encountered before. I need to know for certain that you're going to commit until his training is done." Launa said. The fire inside Fiera's silver green eyes was all the convincing I needed to see.
"Launa, having her around might prove beneficial to us during his training. Think about having someone that can help him finish his studies is a huge bonus." Sabrina argued. She looked at her werewolf friend briefly then shifted her gaze towards Ballista. With a mere dip of her head she agreed with Sabrina about having her help. "Since that's settled there's something I'd like to have cleared up." Sabrina added.
"You're curious as to how her uniform keeps her shapely physique contained. The uniforms my student's wear can conform to almost any size, shape and species. If you'd like I can get the tailors to make all of you some proper training clothes." Ballista replied. Let's just say they were more than interested but, concerned about their durability. "They're tough enough to withstand anything my students can do." She continued.
"Though I'm sure we can give you ladies something that won't rip or tear easy. Why don't we resume this discussion first thing in the morning after breakfast? In the meantime Fiera will show you to the guest temple where you can stay. Nova you'll be staying here tonight there's a few things we need to talk about." She informed. Everyone got up from their seats, said goodnight then were escorted to the temple.
Leaving me and Sensei Ballista alone in her hut to finish our little discussion. Of course when she wants to talk to you in private that's usually not a good thing. So yeah my mind was going in about a million different directions all at once. Before anything else was said she moved over to where I was and grabbed me. Pulling me into a crushing hug then I felt tears landing on my shoulder a moment later.
Gently wrapping my arms around my teacher as she cried tears of joy and sorrow. She let me go briefly then from out of nowhere I ended up face first in her bosom. Now I could've gone without being wedged between her boobs but, I didn't complain. Seriously what sane man would especially since the woman so is well endowed? Sadly this moment was going to go from sweet to embarrassing then to awkward.
When my ears and extrasensory senses picked up on someone coming. Asking to be released through her shirt and bust before questions started flying. Two things; when the door opened it was my sister and two she didn't say anything. In fact she ended up getting buried in Ballista's bust and nearly squeezed to death. "Forgive me for getting overly emotional you two I couldn't hold it back anymore." She stated.
With all that's happened it's hard for anyone to keep their emotions in check. Even for someone as stoic as Sensei Ballista is known for neither of us blamed her. Next she brought my sister and I to our rooms then she turned in for the night. During the night I found it hard to fall asleep so I laid in bed staring at the ceiling. Wondering where to go from here and there wasn't a sign to show me the way.
<Vyekk, said it himself that this path I'm on wouldn't be easy or simple. Though he was confident that regardless of the pit falls the results are worth it. According to Launa I've got a lot of work ahead of me before I'm ready for anything. Granted Sabrina as abrasive as the super werewolf is she's been pretty understanding. It makes me wonder what her story is but, I haven't earned her trust or Launa's.
Azzy's a bit shy and quiet but, there's something about her that seems familiar. It's almost like she's a lost soul from another world that calls this realm home. Her knowledge of magic and it's multiple uses yet, my power has her stumped. Not that I can blame her or Launa on the matter but, I wonder if the info's out there. Perhaps after my training and whatnot is complete I'll go searching for it.
Even though it's probably one hell of a long shot though I won't know for sure. Until I go out and cover everything single inch of the planet and learn differently. Well if things don't work out at least I'll have some good stories to tell the tribe. For now I need to focus on finishing my studies here and training with Launa. I can only imagine what she has in store for me once I'm finished training here.> I wondered.
Not long after thinking to myself my left ear picked up on footsteps approaching. Sure enough it was Ballista something else must be bothering the dragon mix. She didn't stop my guess she was heading towards the bathroom or kitchen. Turning over to face the wall opposite to the door of my room and tried sleeping. Luckily I was able to fall sleep until an hour before the sun rose above the mountains.
It wouldn't be long before the morning bell sounded summoning everyone. Tossing the blanket covering my body aside then got to my feet and got dressed. From there I headed out to the main courtyard where the teachers had assembled. They were surprised to see me then had me join them to answer some questions. I told them just enough to satisfy their collective curiosity while holding back.
Figuring none of them could handle the entire truth and knowing Launa. She probably wouldn't be overly happy if I did so a little restrain was a good idea. Though I'll be sure to let Launa and the others know about what went on here. Granted it's not going to sit well with them but, at least they'll be kept in the loop. Like clockwork the bell sounded and the students began to appear in groups.
Once everyone was present the expert level students started morning exercises. For the next three hours we stretched, sparred and ran until the bell sounded. Next everyone filled into the mess hall where we enjoyed a fresh healthy meal. Twenty minutes later the smell of food enticed Launa and Sabrina into the mess hall. Luckily I warned the cooks ahead of time about my three guest's unique appetites.
While they ate I finished my meal and walked back outside to the courtyard. Grabbing one of the bow staffs from one of the racks and began practicing with it. It wouldn't be long before everyone headed to their first class of the morning. With the rank of Adept my classes weren't until noon giving me some free time. Unfortunately Ballista was already one step ahead of me when she approached.
"Ah, I figured you'd be in the courtyard doing some private training, Nova. Come with me hun Launa and the others are waiting for you by the Chrono Room." She stated. Doing as she asked I followed her to where she told me the others were waiting. "We asked your teachers to make copies of the lessons you haven't completed yet. Fiera will be along shortly to help you learn and practice what's they gave us." Launa said.
Taken the stack of books and scrolls from her just as Fiera turned the corner. I took a deep breath before opening the door to the Chrono room and stepping inside. Fiera was right behind me I looked for the console to set the room to what I needed. Setting the room to one year per month should be sufficient to finish my studies. The door locked and wouldn't open until three months pass on the other side.
Leaving Launa, Sabrina and Azzy to take care of any personal business. Before going anywhere the trio paid Ballista a visit to let her know what's going on. "I'm guessing the three of you are leaving until he comes out of that room, huh?" Ballista asked. "Yeah, we've got some business back home to take care of before we return, ma'am. Is there something we could borrow that'd allow us to come back?" Azzy countered.
Ballista reached into her shirt and pulled out a small coin and tossed it to her. "That coin is a one time pass that'll transport all of you back here when he's done. I'll make sure the guards are aware that you'll be returning in three months time. Though all of you are welcome to stay here and use the equipment that's here." She replied. "Thanks for the offer but, like Azzy said we've got other things to take care of." Launa said.
With that all three powerful heroines bowed respectfully then headed for the exit. Over the next three months Azzy tried to locate information regarding Soul Magic. While Launa took care of a few things and spent time with her boyfriend Rollo. Even Sabrina took the time to relax, had fun with David and worked out at the gym. Two weeks before I emerged from the Chrono room they got the abandon city ready.
Figuring that it was the ideal location to train me in my new powers safely. Unfortunately all of Azzy's digging came up empty and that bothered her immensely. She hated the fact they'd be shooting from the hip to teach me about magic. To be perfectly honest I don't blame Azzy one bit on this particular subject at all. While they were making final preparations the trio got some last minute company.
Apparently the tiopard Sayber was curious to find out how I was coping. Launa gave her an update as to what was going on then she asked to come along. Not seeing the harm in having her join them besides Sayber might help me train. Once everything in the abandoned city was ready for me Azzy retrieved the coin. Everyone placed a hand on the raven's shoulder and with a squeeze the group vanished.
When the large orb of light dissipated they stood outside the main gates. It took a few minutes to confirm their identities before they were allowed inside. Sensei Ballista eagerly met them in the courtyard but, didn't expect to meet Sayber. Though she was polite to the towering feline then brought them to the chrono room. "You're all just in time they should be coming out any minute now." Ballista stated.
"That's good to hear we've got things all ready for the rest of his training. Hopefully his time in there has gotten him ready for we've got in store for him." Sabrina replied. No sooner did the super werewolf speak, when the chrono room door opened. The first person to exit was Fiera, she looked like she was ready to fight an army. Greeting everyone with a bow and hello before standing beside the phoenix mix.
"He'll be right out everyone Nova has a couple things to take care of in there. You probably won't recognize him when does come out he's improved a lot." Fiera informed. Next she allowed her muscles to relax and reducing her overall physical appearance. Launa and Sabrina couldn't help but, wonder what went on behind those doors. It wasn't long until they heard the sounds of footsteps coming towards them.
"Whoa, talk about a difference Nova you look like a whole different person." Azzy remarked. I stood just outside the doorway looking at everyone with a stoic expression. Sayber couldn't believe her eyes the last time she saw I wasn't in prime condition. Even the combined state of Fiera and I's attire reflected we trained extremely hard. Though Fiera's held up a lot better than mine during our three months of training.
Doing the same thing Fiera did a few moments ago I condensed my muscle mass. By doing so it'd make doing normal and everyday things a lot easier to perform. The benefit of this skill is to prevent me from being weighed down in a fight. "What's the matter those big impressive muscles too much for you, Nova." Sabrina teased. Ballista was well aware of why I shrunk my muscle mass and shared it with them.
"When you put it that way a trick like that could be a life saver during a battle. During a fight you can use the extra energy to increase your overall stamina and power. Honestly in all my years on the battlefield or during my training I never thought of it. Granted I've done it once before but, I'm perfectly happy with my physique." Launa replied. Now Azzy and Sabrina were a different story but, they've accepted their fates.
"It's certainly a handy skill if done right Launa but, big muscles won't always win. During our training we found a way to increase our power without losing speed. Granted it's just a theory right now but, given enough time we could perfect it. Sadly Fiera I believe this is something we may have to explore on our own. Perhaps if there's enough time before my final tribal test we can revisit the subject." I said.
"Don't worry Nova while you're off training with them I'll work on our theory. This way if and when you come to visit I can teach you what I've learned about it. For now you need to focus your energy on the skills they're going to teach you. We'll be waiting patiently to hear the good news that you've done your best." Fiera replied. With that she gave me a firm hug then bowed and walked back to the dormitories.
"Before you leave to continue your training I've got a couple of things for you. Normally I'd hold a formal ceremony when one of my students increases a rank. Sadly with time being against us I hereby present to you the robes of an Expert. Wear them with honor and never forget you always have a place at this school." Ballista said. She gave me a black hooded robe with two silver phoenix crests stitched on it.
A small one that rests right over my heart and the other covers my back. Under the robe was a matching pair of pants, grey arm bands and special wraps. Along with a dark blue shirt with a pocket and a new medallion inside it. Before I even put these new garments on I decided to take a nice long steam bath. Considering Fiera and I trained super hard in there and we didn't smell too pleasant.
All the dirt and sweat that came off as I rinsed off turned the water black. Taking a moment to wring out my fur then rinsed off again and shut the water off. Wringing out myself again then shook the excess out sending droplets everywhere. With one final shake I opened the glass sliding door and stepping out of the stall. Grabbing myself some fresh towels from the linen closet and began drying off.
From there I stepped into a special dryer to get rid of the remaining water. Ten minutes of fluffing my fur completely dry I turned off the device and exit. Next I shook myself to get most of my fur back into place before grabbing a brush. Once my fur was back to normal and freshly groomed I was able to get dressed. Starting with a fresh pair of boxers, foot wrappings, the two inch wide arm bands.
After that I put on the special black baggy fighting pants and blue T-shirt. Before putting the robe on I decided to bulk back up to see how tight they'd fit. To my surprise the fabric stretched to compensate for the increase in my body mass. I quickly shrank back down even though I was curious to see how they'd hold up. If I were to transform into my were-beast state but, the location wasn't exactly ideal.
Deciding to save that for another time I through the robe on and zipped it. Taking a moment to look at myself in a mirror to see how everything looked. Sadly I needed a second opinion on the matter and went to rejoin the others. When they saw me in my new attire it was clear to me they liked what they saw. "Wow, all you need now is the proper weapon that'll complete your attire, Nova" Launa said.
"Perhaps but, my student is his own weapon now it's time for him to leave. Nova I know I've said this and so has Vyekk you always have a home here with us. So don't be afraid to visit more often when the rest of your training is over, okay. Should you need anything please don't hesitate to ask even though you don't like to." Ballista replied. With that my close friend, teacher/headmaster came over and gave me a hug.
"Launa before we go I'll be right back there's a couple things I need to do okay." I stated. The warrior trickster smiled and told me to take all the time I needed for goodbyes. All four heroines waited patiently for me by the main entrance of the school. Where I arrived with Yvonne wearing her new training clothes Sali gave to her. Pulling her into one more hug then I handed her my old silver and gold medallion.
"Alright, I'm leaving if you need anything talk to Fiera or Sensei Ballista. Do your best with your studies and try to avoid Garrick and his asshole father." I stated. Not really willing to let me go just yet not knowing if I'll return after my training. Assuring her that everything will be just fine and not worry I'm in good hands. She looked to Launa and the others with concern they agreed to look out for me.
Taking one last long look at everyone I called friend and of course family. Before extending my left out then created a portal a few yards past the gates. The gateway swirled with a truly ancient power that was beyond what we knew. Launa and the others walked through the portal first then I followed shortly after. Once I was on the other side I turned around and raised my hand to close the portal.
Watching it close with a soft flash and pop then I turned to face everyone. "We'll start training first thing tomorrow morning so get plenty of rest, alright." Launa stated. I had heard what Launa said but, I gave her no outward sign of response to it. She looked at me standing there with my head pointed towards the ground. Frozen like a statue as everything that was expected of me came crashing down.
My body began trembling softly at first then enough that to mimic a seizure. Then something inside me just snapped and I didn't waste time running away. Of course they gave chase figuring that something like this would take place. Being the lighter and faster of the group Azzy was the first to catch up with me. "Nova, stop this isn't helping you or anyone I know you don't want to fight." She began.
"I understand it's not in your nature to fight willingly only when you have to. There's no shame in fighting for the right reasons but, you can't run away from this. Whether you want to or not you have to face this and with our help you can't fail. Coreencia struck a deal with Launa she gave us thirteen months to train you properly. We have a little over ten months of work to make sure you're ready to face her.
If you were to take her on now things being as they are you'd get killed. With our help your odds of success will increase over time only if you remain. Who knows we might get a bit of relief and she may give us more time to train. If you can't do it for yourself than do it for Yvonne, Gina's memory and your friends." Azzy said. When she spoke that line I froze, my hands closed then my knuckles cracked.
"For them I'm at your disposal so who'll be my first instructor, Launa?" I asked. Not needing to ask the group twice Sabrina was the first of them to step forward. Cracking her own knuckles eager to get my training underway right this minute. "Umm, I admire you and Sabrina's willingness to start but, we forgot some stuff. Hence, why I wanted to begin training first thing tomorrow morning." Launa informed.
"We all have friends and lovers to inform before we can start any of training." Sayber said. With accent was clearly of Russian dialect but, it carried a different undertone. Though what she said hit home for the group and agreed about waiting to begin. With that Launa ported herself, Sabrina and Azzy back to her home in Amsterdam. Before Sayber went home she escorted me to where I'd be living during my training.
It was a seven floor hotel that had plenty of room for whatever I needed. On floors five and six was a complete gym with all the gear you could imagine. The fourth floor was where everyone would be residing when we weren't training. As for the rest of the building was converted for cooking, bathing and laundry. Sayber gave me my room number then she left for home to take care of things.
Seeing as everyone would be back at first light I took the time to get my bearings. Knowing that I wouldn't get much in the way of sleep due to it being someplace new. The hotel Sayber told me about wasn't far from where we arrived so I stayed nearby. Gauging the entire area would do me some good I even found the old battlefield. As I looked at all the damage that I caused while Lord Courahn was in control.
It was a physical reminder that the power I have needs to be harnessed. Granted if there's a way to seal it away again I'll take that route without hesitation. Sadly with no information readily available such a task will prove to be impossible. Pulling out my new medallion from my shirt pocket then flipped it upside down. Not only did these serve as a means of transit but, they can be used to tell time.
Especially at night when there's no ambient light as the arrows appeared. While they spun around to compensate for the change in location and time zone. When they stopped it was ten of midnight here so I decided to head to the hotel. Stopping by the kitchen first, made myself some tea before going to my room. Opening the door and flicked on the light and saw that they brought plenty of gear.
They managed to get some weighted training clothes from Master Lidia. She's quite the character but, when it comes to making clothes she's the greatest. Oddly enough she isn't afraid to admit it I must remember to thank her later. As I inspected each of the crates I noticed they were label with various weights. Once my training with Launa and the others gets underway these will be used.
Turning around to look at the bed I couldn't believe the sheer size of the mattress. It was a king size bed and frame with a couple of blankets and quite a few pillows. To be honest I'm not used to having a bed like this but, it was better than nothing. As I sat down on the bed I nearly sank into the damn thing a second later. Luckily I was able to shuffle myself around so I didn't sink any further into the bed.
Next I undressed down to my boxers then crawled underneath the blankets. Tossing and turning followed until I located a spot that was ideal then fell asleep. Four hours later I woke up feeling literally dead on my feet as I sat up on the bed. I tried going back to sleep only to wake up forty minutes feeling no differently. Seeing as there no point in staying in bed I got up, threw on my training clothes.
From there I made my way downstairs to the kitchen where I made some tea. Not really in the mood to make something solid to eat though I would in a bit. Since I needed time to wake up even though I'd prefer to still be in bed right now. Sadly my body had other ideas in mind as I sat down and took a sip from my cup. It would take a while before the effects of the caffeine gave my body a jump start.
Unfortunately something big pinged across my senses spoiling my morning. Placing my cup back down then I sped off to find out who entered this territory. Once outside I quickly tried to zero in on where this presence was coming from. Until my ears heard the sounds of a large engine racing towards my present location. Readying myself for a fight as Launa's prized Netherbeast skidded around a corner.
As the massive nine hundred horsepower machine stopped a few feet away. Sabrina was the first of the trio to jump out of the sidecar and walk over to me. She didn't waste time telling me that I looked like I got run over by a freight train. Thanking her for such caring words then I walked quietly back inside the building. "Looks like Nova isn't exactly a morning person or he didn't sleep much last night." Launa said.
"Something tells me he didn't sleep last night after all this is a strange place. I wouldn't be able to sleep in a place like this regardless if I'll be training here. Sabrina try not to pick on him too much today that's goes for you as well Launa." Azzy replied. Granted the pair called her a spoilsport for ruining their fun at my expense. Though they'd have plenty of chances in the near future to have their share of fun.
Sayber was the last of the group to join everyone inside the large dining room. Launa asked me if I had eaten anything yet and told her that I wasn't very hungry. Explaining that I normally don't eat right away especially after waking up. In a couple hours I'd be in the mood to eat breakfast that didn't go over well. Of course arguing with Launa would prove to be one battle I wouldn't win.
Relenting for the time being as she and Azzy walked into the kitchen to cook. Launa, Azzy and Sayber were in their true form so I wondered why Sabrina wasn't. Now I'm well aware she's a super werewolf so why come here in her human form. Unless her abilities are tied to the phases of the moon like some legends say. Though the last time we were together she showed the ability to transform at will.
In the end I decided to drop the matter considering it wasn't any of my business. "So has Launa said anything on how were going to go about my training or what?" I asked. "Not to my knowledge Nova though there's always method to her madness. Than again I honestly don't really see the point you're a capable fighter already. As for your powers are whole other story altogether which you need to control." She replied.
"You're half right in your assessment Sabrina, Nova is strong but, not enough. He's going up against a goddess therefore his powers need to match or surpass it. So for the next six weeks you and him will be sparring until he reaches your level. Than Sayber will join you in sparring and will teach him how to control his instincts. His feral form and Were-beast state have great potential but, they need to be harnessed.
Right now both forms are a weakness until he's able to utilize them properly. If he's able to survive training with you two we'll see what to do from there. Now Sabrina I want you take it slow so try your best to fight at his level alright. Once we learn what he can handle when pushed to the limit then make adjustments. Monday throu Friday you'll be training with us and on weekends do as you like.
Use the time to either rest up or practice what you learned during the week. If you can last three months with Sabrina and Sayber than we'll get into magic. One last thing Nova I've had students in the past and they've all let me down. Granted you've had several people speak on your behalf and their deep rooted faith. Even your sister told me you're not the type to fail or even break a promise." Launa informed.
"She's not wrong every promise I've made has been fulfilled no matter what. I understand that all of you have your doubts about me and I don't blame you. If you feel this is a waste of time than you're free to leave and I'll face my destiny. Whether I pass or fail at least I'll die knowing that I gave it everything I had." I replied. Upon hearing those words this satisfied smile came to the black furred feline's face.
"I don't know about the rest of you but, I'm certainly convinced he'll succeed." Sayber said. Sabrina got all fired up upon hearing the confident words of the humble Tiopard. Sadly the werewolf's eagerness to start was contagious as Azzy joined them. The raven was positive that I wouldn't let them down regardless of the outcome. "Alright, let's chow down first then we'll get your training underway." She smiled.
To be continued.