You can thank @Llisona for this update. Her post inspired me. Even though the word count is kinda pathetic. At least I have somewhere to go with the next chapter.

Percy had officially decided that training in the Khaos army sucked podex.

Hishumu hadn't let up on Percy since his arrival.

He'd shown Percy to his barracks (shared with three other guys), told him to put down his stuff, change into the uniform on his bed, and get his sorry behind out to the training field.

Percy and Hishumu ventured to the field in a light jog; Percy had no trouble keeping up at first. But as they continued running, Percy realized the air was different on Valoria. It felt thicker, heavier. It made breathing slightly uncomfortable as he made himself push through it.

Hishumu was obviously aware of Percy's struggle. He kept glancing back any time Percy cringed, but he didn't say anything. Percy was thankful for that. He felt like a wimp already appearing out of breath. Percy felt fine overall; he just needed to acclimate to his surroundings, but it seemed he wouldn't have the chance.

Hishumu slowed to a leisurely walk once they arrived on the training field.

All around Percy there were soldiers of varying species, sizes, and... well, Percy didn't want to think about all the other differences.

Each solider had a weapon of some sort that they were practicing with. Percy saw one purple and orange horned creature with a broadsword fighting someone with what looked like a taser. He saw normal sword fights as well, along with projectile combat and physical combat.

As Percy studied the field, Hishumu studied Percy.

He didn't know what to think of the guy yet. He'd only just arrived after all. However, very few people made it through the elemental barrier as quickly as Percy did, and he adapted surprisingly well to the thick air meant to harden the army's training. The air would soon become extremely thin for more adaptability on the army's part, but Percy didn't need to know that.

Hishumu couldn't decide what to do with Percy yet. Make him fight someone? Make him fight Hishumu? Watch his reactions to other fights? Not make him fight at all but rather start on other training aspects?

Yeah, let's try that last one for now.

"Percy," Hishumu called out to get his attention, "for now, we're going to go a little farther and test some aspects of your fitness, so I'll know where to start with your training."

Percy nodded. "Lead the way."

The two of them wove their way through the crowds of people until they reached a small arena just outside of the larger one. The arena only had five people in it, all of which appeared to be doing strength and endurance training in the way of what Percy would call a normal earthly workout. Each of them stood at attention once they saw Hishumu enter the arena.

"Sir," one with radioactive green eyes and purple skin began, "we were just—"

Hishumu held up a hand for silence and received it immediately. "It's of no concern to me so long as you meet your weekly expectations. I wanted to introduce you to Percy, here. Brand new. Wanted to test from the beginnings to see what I'm working with."

The smallest member of the group slowly started smirking as Hishumu spoke. By the end, his smile was purely sinister. "We'd be delighted to help in any way possible, sir." He eyed Percy like a particularly breakable-looking piece of glass.

Percy hid the apprehensive look he wanted to give in favor of a polite smile and nod. He looked at Hishumu. "What will I be doing?"

Hishumu examined the group of five critically, trying to decide that for himself. "Latao, you'll test endurance—"

A slender woman with a long plait of mahogany hair nodded.

"—Derick, you'll test senses—"

The rounded purple man with green eyes blinked with a slight smile.

"—Terrance, you'll test weaponry—"

A seemingly average blonde haired brown eyed young man looked up from his sword.

"—Yaether, I want you to test strength—"

A very tall, scarily buff orange woman straightened with a firm nod.

"—And, Ligor—" The smallest, most unassuming guy in the group titled his head.

"—You're testing powers."

Ligor's gaze slid over to Percy with a smug grin. Percy stood up straighter in response.

The group of five made eye contact with each other before collectively switching their gazes to Percy.

Hishumu grimaced. "Good luck, Percy."