Welcome to the Circus of Battle!

The pilots for this battle were sure to be confused as the Zoid elevators hefted them up into the large dome that they were to battle inside. The place was colorful, to say the least, and had everything you would expect at an oversized carnival. Trampolines, strong enough to support Zoids jumping off of them, littered the arena randomly for those brave enough to use them. A large Ferris wheel stood in the center of the battlefield, slowly spinning with no one inside of it. Tents with strange rods inside of them were spaced out evenly while large metal plates covered the ground around the edges of the arena, their circular steel looking like it was hiding something underneath. What could it be? No one was told besides the people that had designed the arena, and the Judge that was going to keep it a surprise.

Speaking of the judge, the robot that announced the battle came down through a hole in the ceiling. Its top half was connected to a beam that allowed it to move across the ceiling, and the entirety of it was designed to look like a clown. "This area is not a designated Zoid Battleground! The battle is Valkyrie, of Team Fury, versus Takeshi, of Team Highguard! Ready....FIGHT!" With the announcement made the rods inside of the tents activate bringing forth energy shields that made excellent cover for those that got behind, or inside, them.

Notes
-Takeshi goes first, alternating each round.
-The shields reduce all non-melee based attacks by 75% and are able to be passed through without issue.
-The Ferris wheel has 500 DP of armor before it falls, for those wanting to see it come down for some strange reason.
-The Trampolines will not break if either of you bounce off of them.
-Judge is spooky clown, hope neither of you are afraid of clowns!

Takeshi Kimari

Pilot Statistics:

GL: 5
AP: 5000
Skill Points: 18

Mental Ability: 7
Reflexes: 8

Known Reflexes:

Knows it all

Proficiency: 3

- Cannons: 0
- Rifles: 0
- Machine Guns: 0
- Melee: 3/Lv.2 [+10DP]

Zoid:
Zoid: Liger Zero
Type: Liger
Name: Thunder

Appearance: Armour is black with silver edging, claws and fangs are silver instead of the traditional golden yellow. Eyes
are bright green.

Internal Slots: 0/3
CPU Slots: 0/3
Heat Index: 20

Speed: 18
Agility: 40

External Hardpoints: 5
Body: Back 0/1 - Left Side 1/1 - Right Side 1/1
Limbs: Chin 0/1 - Forehead 0/1

Additional Weapons:
Double 80 cal. Rifle [Unequipped]
Use: Twice per round, up to 3 rounds
70DP
External Hardpoints: 1


Specials:

Strike Laser Claw [Energy]
This is the hallmark of the Liger Zero. The Zoid siphons laser energy into the claw for a superheated, super-fast pouncing
strike.
130DP [120DP +10 Proficiency]

Hardened Alloy Teeth and Claws
Teeth and Claws meant to tear through armor in melee attacks.
45DP [35DP +10 Proficiency]

Double Barrel Chest Cannon
Light cannon taken from the Shield Liger with two barrels that fire forward at once.
50DP

High-Density Beam Gun
Fires extremely dense rounds from a custom turreted tail mount.
60DP

Equipped:

Schneider Armor
This Armor is orange in color. The Schneider Armor is built for melee combat, with seven high-density alloy
blades.
+150 to body, +75 to other limbs

Head: 95
Body: 240
Right Front Leg: 115
Left Front Leg: 115
Right Back Leg: 115
Left Back Leg: 115
Tail: 100

Components

E-Shield
A strong frontal force shield that aides the Zoid when executing melee combat maneuvers.
Use: Lasts for 5 actions, 4 times per battle
Reduces all damage by 50%; +30 DP to any Blade attack
Double-Barrelled Shock Cannon
Mounted on the Zoid's chest, this gun is made to supplement the blades.
55DP [50DP]

Twin Laser Blades
These blades are the longest on the Schneider unit and function similarly to the Blade Liger. They can swing out
on the sides to slice or face forward to stab the opponent.
60DP [50DP +10DP Proficiency] per blade

Five Face-Mounted Blades
Forward-facing only, these blades are as mobile as the head they are mounted to. They are for stabbing the
opponent.
Use: 4 times per round
110DP [100DP +10DP Proficiency]

Seven Blade Attack
All seven of the blades are engaged to severely damage the enemy.
Once per round, up to two rounds
210DP [200DP +10DP Proficiency]

Jager Armor:
This Armor is blue in color. The Jager Armor is strictly for speed. It is structured to make optimal use of air flow and includes a pair of Ion Boosters. Can you handle it?

Speed and agility hit the maximum for the Zoids weight class.
+100 to body, +50 to other limbs


Ion Boosters
Mounted on the back of the Zoid, these boosters greatly enhance the Zoid's natural speed and dodging capabilities.
Lasts for 5 actions, every other round.
Increases dodge rate by 50%

Vulcan Pod
The Jager’s standard run-and-gun weapon mounted on the face; they are extremely accurate. They have no recoil and a high rate of fire.
60DP

Micro-Missiles [Explosive]
A small pod of missiles, located on the back and only revealed when about to be used. Contains 10 missiles.
Fires up to 3 in one feat
20DP per missile

High-Power Gattling
Mounted on the Zoid's chest, this weapon is best used on targets in front of it. The weapon's ammo moves at extreme velocity, and cannot easily be dodged.
3 times per round, up to 2 rounds
80DP, unblockable by shields

Panzer Armor:
This Armor is green in color. The Panzer Armor is all about power, with it's twin buster rifles, repulsion armor and it's multitude of guns. Purely an offensive system it is sure to turn a few heads on the battlefield, and knock a few off too.

Physical damage and solid ammo is reduced by 20 DP.
Speed and agility are reduced to 8 and 20, respectively. Cannot be changed.
+250 to body, +100 to other limbs


Hybrid Cannons [Energy]
Mounted on each side of the armor; when not in use, they can be folded in and concealed within the armor. These cannons are the newest in energy-based weapons and do not suffer from heat build-up.
Twice per round, up to 3 rounds
150DP

Triple-Barreled Grenade Launcher [Explosive]
Mounted in place of the chest cannons, this weapon launches cluster grenades that do a significant amount of damage over a 20-meter radius.
Can be used once per turn, up to four turns.
100DP for direct hits, splash damage at the judge’s discretion.

Multi-Situational Missile Pods (x4) [Explosive]
Contained in a compact pod which is then mounted on each of the Zoid's legs. These have no homing capabilities.
Fires one full pod per attack. Once a pod is fired it is unusable for the rest of the match.
20DP per missile, 5 missiles per pod

Vulcan Gun
Mounted on the back of the armor; can spin 360 degrees with a tilt of 30 degrees up or down.
80DP

Heat Beam [Energy]
Mounted on the tail; fires an intense laser-like beam.
2 times per round
60DP and 5 heat damage

Burning Big Bang
The Panzer unit fires off all of its weapons and missiles at once.
Once per battle
Requires one feat to lock-on, 300 DP; use of this attack causes overheating to the Panzer unit, causing it to eject.

Hover Cargo:
This is a transport unit that can be used to travel around with the Zoid in storage, but it is also essential when using CAS.
This transport system holds the CAS units and is required for the armor to be usable during battle. There is a roof panel for
aerial Zoids to enter. The Hit Points work like an armor plating during battle to protect the unit; opponents may target the
Hover Cargo to disable it by bringing its HP down to zero (0). The owner would then be stranded in whichever CAS unit
they have applied at the time of disablement.
Current Internal Slots: 3
Max Internal Slots: 5
Hit Points (HP): 300
Slots:
Slot 1: Jager
Slot 2: Schneider
Slot 3: Panzer

Battle Narrative:

The cockpit was dark and silent, just how Takeshi liked it before a battle, he needed that moment of contemplative silence to centre himself and fall into his competitive persona, the frame of mind that allowed him to perform at his peak. His eyes were closed as he communed with Thunder’s spirit, each becoming one and whole, they knew their role and their purpose in this place, they were warriors and battle was their game, it was where they belonged. The pilot’s mouth curled up in one corner, the cocky self-assured grin that was his trademark fell into place like the dropping of a portcullis gate, locking out any and all emotion or thoughts of defeat, the arena was his house, and he’d be damned if anyone was going to challenge him in his house. His eyes opened finally and the cockpit flooded his senses as he regained his focus on the material universe, the scent of the sweat stained leather that wrapped around the hand-controls of the Liger Zero to protect his hands, the rough suede feel of it against his skin, and the bright pin pricks of light that dotted the console before him, he was ready. With the flick of a switch he opened comms to the Hover Cargo, “Okay Eric, load up the Schneider unit, I want to stretch my legs in close quarters fighting this time around.” The Captain ordered.

“Schneider unit it is.” Came a familiar voice from the transport, but it wasn’t Eric’s. Takeshi’s eyes bulged as he realised who was in his corner for this battle.

“Adam?!” He nearly choked over the radio channel, “What are you doing here?”

“My job, just like I used to.”

“What about the ranch? What about Dad?”

“He’s fine, the ranch came into some money so he doesn’t really need me working all the time, just don’t go reading the news for a little while he may have sold an interview and some of your baby photos.” The younger Kimari answered in a bit of a verbal avalanche, the words tumbling out and almost joining into one long continuous sound. Takeshi simply sighed as he realised what had happened, but for all of that he was still thankful to have his brother back in his corner, it would be just the boost he needed.

“Alright, good to have you back on board, get the Schneider unit set and start playing my walk out track, it’s time to give the crowd what they want.” Takeshi fell back into the comfortable rhythm of giving orders knowing full well Adam would obey, and sure enough the dull thunk of the Changeable Armour System’s arms echoed in the cockpit, the basic plates of Thunder’s armour were removed and in their place the glossy black plates of Takeshi’s custom Schneider unit attached. Thunder growled his approval, the Schneider unit had long been their favourite and as always it felt the most right when it was in place. Takeshi rolled his neck in preparation as the Hover Cargo’s catapult extended out into the black of the battlefield beyond. Takeshi rolled his shoulders one last time before his hands settled back on the controls and his eyes turned hard with determination. “Alright Adam, play it.” He called and the hard rock of the duo’s theme song started to build across the stadium, the steady rising of the nana followed by the cry of Thunder! As it played the crowds roar built with it, the blue-face painted Highguardian fans growing more rabid with every concussive blast of the guitars.

“Alright that’s how I like it, Adam make sure the rest of the album keeps playing in my cockpit, okay?”

“You got it Captain; now go make us look good.” The young Kimari answered.

“You got it.” Takeshi answered with a smirk, turning into a full-fledged exultant grin as the Liger Zero launched free of the Hover Cargo’s catapult, soaring through the air to come crash landing on all fours within the bizarre arena. A quick glance showed the pilot that he clearly wasn’t in the familiar wasteland battlefields of the old days. As the final notes of Thunderstruck echoed around the field, the perverse judge came into view and Takeshi nearly puked, “I hate clowns.” He muttered as his hands tightened on the controls, the first notes of “Long Way to the Top” starting to fill the cockpit.

”Ready?” The Judge’s voice assaulted his ears, hands reflexively tightening on the controls, knuckles whitening against the leather.

”FIGHT!”

With the call of fight the battle began, Takeshi launched out onto the Battlefield, making a bee line for the strangely glowing tents, activating the Schneider’s E-shield as he went. “Alright Thunder, we have to get in close, no wasting time with this, there is only open fire and reload, no overkill.” The Zoid roared its approval as the Liger’s claws dug into the earth, propelling its body forward in long leaping bounds showing a feline grace that belied the titanic size of its metallic body. The blood began to race in Takeshi’s ears and the thundering cacophony of his rising pulse began to drown out all other sound, the battle fever had taken hold now and there would be no reining the pilot back until the battle was done.

The Highguardian duo came upon their opponent in short order; the pilot taking in the field at a glance gave a laugh that was disconcerting in its unhinged melody, reflecting how mad Takeshi’s plan truly was that it was even affecting the pilot himself. With a leaping bound thunder hit the trampoline, the Zoid twisting in mid-air to bring itself plummeting down towards the opponent. Takeshi roared alongside Thunder as the Schneider’s blades extended towards their opponent, “Seven-Blade Attack!” As their descent ended the Zoid rolled on its shoulder to bound off onto the next trampoline, angling their fall off to behind another tent to avoid the return fire that would surely be coming.

“We’re faster and more agile buddy, time to demonstrate that to them.” The pilot spoke to the answering approval of the Liger, the blades mounted around Thunder’s head coming forward to form a somewhat cone like shape, the blades giving a slight hiss as if they were also anticipating the attack to come. With the weapons in place the Liger roared forth and charged down the opponent, this time trying to take the larger Liger from behind, “Buster slash!” Takeshi called exultantly as the old rush of the Schneider’s signature attack filled him to the brim with some of his old confidence. The Liger landed on his haunches, kicking off with both back legs to drive the slashing attack home one more time before kicking off to the safety of the tents energy shields once more, weaving its way through the maze of the outrageous battlefield.

Takeshi looked up to the giant frame of the Ferris Wheel with a thoughtful expression, “Hey Adam reckon I should?” He inquired of his brother for the first time since the battle had started, “I mean it looks like it could support us, what do you think?” The pilot didn’t wait for an answer and Adam didn’t give one knowing full well the question had been rhetorical; at this point Takeshi was going to do whatever he felt like. The Liger Zero launched itself onto the waiting springs of the nearest trampoline and rocketed sky high, the mechanical beast twisting in mid-air to drive its back legs into the beams of the Ferris wheel, claws scoring deep gouges out of the steel as they soared across the battlefield like a bullet towards their opponent, blades extended. As the duo passed their opponent the Liger instinctively tucked its head and rolled away off its shoulder, the deafening impact of the landing sending a concussive wave through the cockpit and rocking Takeshi’s head back against the padded seat. Stars burst across his vision as he felt the oncoming headache of what was definitely going to be a mild concussion.

“Alright buddy, we’ve done all we can like this, Adam prep the Panzer unit!” Takeshi manage to slur out of his impact addled mental fog, the Liger taking its assigned place in the rear hatch of the Hover cargo to re-outfit with the matte-black of the custom Panzer unit. Takeshi felt the dull thud of the cannons slot into place on Thunder’s back, his head slowly clearing as they launched back out onto the battlefield, the eye lense of the Panzer’s aiming unit folding out from behind Takeshi’s chair to sit just over his right eye, lining up the crosshairs on the opposing Liger’s large form, “Nighty night.” The Pilot called as he let the dual Hybrid cannons speak their deadly song, two large beams launching forth with all the power of the hand of a god. The concussive blast of recoil pushing the Liger back a few paces as the draft of wind rushed passed, Takeshi’s heart thudded in his chest as he waited for the smoke to clear.

Action Summary:

1.
A:[Activate] E-Shield: Reduces all damage by 50%, adds 30DP to Blade attacks, lasts for 5 actions.
B: Dodge: Entered the energy shields to avoid incoming fire.

2.
A: Attack: Ninja Seven Blade Attack from the Air aimed at Trinity Liger’s body 240DP [+10 for prof and +30 for E-shield]
B: Dodge: All stealthy like back into the energy shields.

3.
A: Reflex: Double Attack: Five Face Mounted blades at Liger’s body 280DP [100 + 10 prof + 30 E-shield*2]
B: Dodge: Leet ninja rolls away and heads for cover.

4.
A: Attack: Meteor strike style face mounted blades at Liger’s body 140DP [+10 for Prof +30 for Shield]
B: Dodge rolling and weaving back through the Battlefield.

5.
A: Equip: Re-arm with the Panzer Armour+250 armour to body, +100 to all limbs.
B: Reflex: Double Attack: Hybrid Cannons aimed at Liger’s body 300DP [150*2]

Reflexes Remaining: 6/8

Advancement Points: 31,000
Growth Level: 13
Skill Points: 47

Statistics
Mental: 16
Reflex: 18 (14 +4 OPS)
Proficiency: 21 (18 +4 OPS)
Melee: Rank 4 - 10 (+20 DP)
Rifles: Rank 4 - 10 (+20 DP)
Cannons: 0
Machine Guns: Rank 1 - 1 (+5 DP)

Hover Cargo:
This is a transport unit that can be used to travel around with the Zoid in storage, but it is also essential when using CAS. This transport system holds the CAS units and is required for the armor to be usable during battle. There is a roof panel for aerial Zoids to enter. The Hit Points work like an armor plating during battle to protect the unit; opponents may target the Hover Cargo to disable it by bringing its HP down to zero (0). The owner would then be stranded in whichever CAS unit they have applied at the time of disablement.
Current Internal Slots: 3
Max Internal Slots: 5
Hit Points (HP): 300
CAS Storage:
Panzer Armor
This Armor is green in color. The Panzer Armor is all about power, with it's twin buster rifles, repulsion armor and it's multitude of guns. Purely an offensive system it is sure to turn a few heads on the battle field, and knock a few off too.

Armor
Physical damage and solid ammo is reduced by 20 DP.
Speed and agility is reduced to 8 and 20, respectively. Cannot be changed.
+250 to body, +100 to other limbs
Requirement: 1 Internal Slot

Components

Hybrid Cannons [Energy]
Mounted on each side of the armor; when not in use, they can be folded in and concealed within the armor. These cannons are the newest in energy-based weaponry, and do not suffer from heat build-up.
Use: Twice per round, up to 3 rounds
150DP

Triple-Barreled Grenade Launcher
Mounted in place of the chest cannons, this weapon launches cluster grenades that do a significant amount of damage over a 20 meter radius.
Use: 4 times per battle
40DP for direct hit, splash damage at the judge’s discretion.

Multi-Situational Missile Pods (4)
Contained in a compact pod which is then mounted on each of the Zoid's legs. These have no homing capabilities.
40DP per missile, 5 missiles per pod

Vulcan Gun
Mounted on the back of the armor; can spin 360 degrees with a tilt of 30 degrees up or down.
80DP

Heat Beam [Energy]
Mounted on the tail; fires an intense laser-like beam.
Use: 3 times per round
60DP and inflicts 5 heat damage

Burning Big Bang
The Panzer unit fires off all of its weapons and missiles at once.
Use: Once per battle
Requires one feat to lock-on, 300 DP; use of this attack causes overheating to the Panzer unit.

This armor system can be used on land-based Zoids with 2 or 4 legs and a tail.

Schneider Armor ==EQUIPPED==
This Armor is orange in color. The Schneider Armor is built for melee combat, with seven high-density alloy blades.
+150 to body, +75 to other limbs

Components

E-Shield
A strong frontal force shield that aides the Zoid when executing melee combat maneuvers.
Use: Lasts for 5 actions, every other round.
Reduces all damage by 50%; +30 DP to any Blade attack

Double-Barrelled Shock Cannon
Mounted on the Zoid's chest, this gun is made to supplement the blades.
50DP

Twin Laser Blades
These blades are the longest on the Schneider unit and function similarly to the Blade Liger. They can swing out on the sides to slice or face forward to stab the opponent.
70DP per blade (50 base + 20 Prof)

Five Face-Mounted Blades
Forward-facing only, these blades are as mobile as the head they are mounted to. They are for stabbing the opponent.
Use: 4 times per round
120DP (100 base + 20 Prof)

Seven Blade Attack
All seven of the blades are engaged to severely damage the enemy.
Use: Once per round
200DP (200 base + 20 Prof)

This armor system can be used on land-based zoids with 2 or 4 legs and a tail.

Trinity Liger
"Blackjack"

Liger
Speed: 11
Agility: 20
Heat Index: 40
Internal Slots: 6/7
CPU Slots: 3
External Hardpoints: 9 - Body: 5 (chest x2, back, each side), Limbs: 4 (each leg)
Armor (Base) - Head: 50 / Body: 150 / Legs (x4): 75 / Tail: 50
Armor (Current) - Head: 125 / Body: 300 / Legs (x4): 155 / Tail: 125

Armor Coatings/Platings/CAS:
Schneider Armor
This Armor is orange in color. The Schneider Armor is built for melee combat, with seven high-density alloy blades.
+150 to body, +75 to other limbs

Specials

Dozer Claw
Similar to the SLC on the Liger Zero; however, the claw doesn't charge as the damage stems from the weight and force put out by the massive Zoid in the leaping slash attack.
120DP (100DP+20 prof)

Beam Cannon (NOT USABLE)
Located on the back behind the head, the beam cannon is a standard weapon, not usable when turbine is active.
60DP

Turbine
By flipping out and spinning the three large panels on the neck of the Zoid it creates an air flow that protects the Zoid.
Blocks all physical damage from the front for 3 actions
Usable one per round, every other round

Hardened Alloy Teeth and Claws
Teeth and claws meant to tear through armor in a melee attack.
70DP (50DP + 20 Prof)

Photon Cutter
A small tail blade useful for attacking pursuing enemies.
50DP (30DP + 20 Prof)

CAS Armor Abilities
Schneider Armor

E-Shield
A strong frontal force shield that aides the Zoid when executing melee combat maneuvers.
Use: Lasts for 5 actions, every other round.
Reduces all damage by 50%; +30 DP to any Blade attack

Double-Barrelled Shock Cannon
Mounted on the Zoid's chest, this gun is made to supplement the blades.
50DP

Twin Laser Blades
These blades are the longest on the Schneider unit and function similarly to the Blade Liger. They can swing out on the sides to slice or face forward to stab the opponent.
70DP per blade (50 + 20 prof)

Five Face-Mounted Blades
Forward-facing only, these blades are as mobile as the head they are mounted to. They are for stabbing the opponent.
Use: 4 times per round
120DP (100+20 prof)

Seven Blade Attack
All seven of the blades are engaged to severely damage the enemy.
Use: Once per round
220DP (200+20 prof)

=+=+=Narrative=+=+=
“We are a few minutes from deployment zone” announced the helmsman of the hovercargo as the lumbering vehicle made its way into the terrain around the battlefield that had been select, the crumbling ruins of old abandoned cities passing either side of the semi-flying craft.

“Very good. Ready Blackjack for deployment” ordered the woman more-or-less sprawled in the command chair as she poked at a small screen beside her. flashed the display as speakers crackled with electricity, warming up as they began to boom sound across the landscape, scaring various critters from their holes as the metallic beast rumbled past. Valkyrie stood and with a casual nod made her way off the bridge of the Hovercargo, descending into the belly of the beast as she listened to the music that was easily audible despite the thick hull. The deck reverberated as robotic arms fastened armor plating to the hulking form of the Trinity Liger known as Blackjack, registered to Team Fury member Valkyrie Halasian-Blackstone, a woman with a murky history and resident alien.
Crossing an extended walkway Valkyrie climbed into the cockpit of the Liger and began its bootup sequence, for it had no psycom system and thus was unable to do it without manual input.

“Zoid core...Online. Life support...Online. Sensors...Online. Communications system...Online.” announced the computer as the displays flicked into life, showing the bay around the zoid as the robotic arms finished loading the first set of armor and locking it into place.
“Armor system interface...Active. Updating internal systems, Complete. Standby to release safeties.”

“Blackjack, go for launch.” announced Val as she toggled the deployment, the cargo bay lit with flashing orange lights as arms and walkways retracted, a klaxon sounding as hull plates were opened to allow the heavy zoid to be swung out. Valkyrie finished attaching the pilot harness as the zoid shook, clamps lifting the zoid off its feet before sliding it along rails out through the opening in the hull, leaving the multi-ton machine dangling several meters above the ground. The music reaching a crescendo when the clamps released and several dozen tons of metal dropped to the earth with a resounding crash. The actual impact force was nothing to Valkyrie, taking it in stride as she rammed the throttle forward and hit the safeties for her weaponry.

“Weapon and Defensive system safeties...Off. Battle condition achieved.”

Valkyrie grinned as her own music was drowned out by her opponent and their own arrival music, having clearly gone for the more 'badass' method rather than the ominous classical theme. But it was still nice to hear. Though the roar of the crowd became somewhat evident as her own music died. “Eh...lets just have a bit fun, if I wanted serious...well...we'd be done already” snorted the woman as her computer flashed its battlefield warnings, the usual crop of 'this is in use for a sanctioned battle...blah blah blah'.

“Ready?” asked the clown-ish judge (Really? Where do these people get their ideas from? Not since the great clown culling of eighty seventy six had someone been that demented)
“FIGHT!” boomed the announcement as it was all on.

Valkyrie was enough of a pilot to know she'd have exactly zero chance of catching her opponent in a chase, and would instead need to rely on the need to come to her...which gave her slower, and heavier zoid an advantage. As her own music selection filled the cockpit she punched the little blue button with a fan icon and smiled as the large superhardened armor plates that formed the 'mane' flicked into position and with as shuddering roar, began to spin, moving faster and faster until they were but a blur, the air itself becoming a shield against any attacks. With a flick of her wrist Valkyrie turned her zoid to face towards her opponents starting position, angling the unprotected rear of her hulking mecha beast towards the edge of the arena. “Come at me bro!” howled the woman over the open radio.
Hunkering down Valkyrie readied herself to strike, pouring all of her focus into just the...right...moment...to...

And there it was, that moment between heartbeats when you have that absolute clarity, like great beast surging up from beneath the waves into the air the Trinity Liger rocketed forward, every blade on the zoid snapping forward into a single powerful strike, capable of rending asunder all but the heaviest of armor in an instant. The only question was would her reactions come just in time? As the Liger careened across the arena driven by that surging attack its shield flickered into place, Val thrown against the harness as she cornered rapidly, her zoid leaning into the turn as it skidded, the heavy claws slamming into the ground to give it some semblance of traction as the twin laser blades snapped forward like a set of lances, shimmering with energy as they charged. The crowd was losing its mind as the two titanic machines clashed once again, Blackjacks laser blades flashing in the sunlight as they cleaved the air repeatedly before the charging Trinity Liger.

With a clank the Turbine plates ceased their rotation and locked back into place leaving Valkyrie without her primary means of defense, for the time being anyway, but she had blood in her eye now, and intended on giving her opponent what-for! Like a charging bull Blackjack thundered across the arena, slamming through tents and other structures as the face mounted blades glowed with power. The bull-like description is apt however, since Valkyrie intended on running down her opponent and in doing so, savaging his zoid with her own since they both relied on melee, it wasn't a case of sitting back and waiting for the action, it was fighting back as fast and as hard as possible...and to make her opponent work for everything!
Especially when faced with a multi-ton chunk of steel and blades hurtling towards him fast enough to make some in the audience wish they'd worn the brown pants.

As the huge zoid swept out of its charge it plowed directly into a tent and out of sight, the brief respite giving Valkyrie time to reorient her zoid and start building up steam for another charge. As the tent virtually exploded from the raging Trinity Liger, Blackjack skidded into another turn and built up speed as it bore down towards the frailer Liger Zero. Again the five face blades were called in to the fight and once again the titanic crash of metal meeting metal at high speeds boomed across the arena as the opponents leaped apart and scarpered off in separate directions, Val guiding Blackjack through the assorted hazards of the field towards the bulk of the Ferris wheel.

It wasn't long until the two zoids were within striking distance of one another, as the laser blades slashed out again and again, the melee focus of the two fighters providing a magnificent spectacle as steel rang and armor was smashed apart under thunderous blows, Blackjack diving for cover amidst the supports for the massive edifice that rotated slowly, Valkyrie calling her hovercargo in as she readied herself for what would come next....

=+=+=Actions=+=+=
1a: Activate: Turbine (Blocks all damage from front, lasts 3 actions)
1b: Turn to face enemy, put back against edge of arena so Turbine deflection has coverage (Dodge)

2a: Quicker than the Eye
2b: Dances of a steel wind! - Seven Blade attack : Body : 220dp stealth attack

3a:Activate E-Shield (50% Dmg reduction, +30dp blade attacks)
3b: Shuffling gait, flashing steel! - Twin laser blades, double attack : Body : 100 (70+30)dp x2
(Turbine Effect fades)
4a:Enraged charge of doom! - Five face mounted blades, double attack : Body : 150dp x2 (120+30), attempted ram of opponent (??? effect)
4b:Rush into tent and out of sight (Dodge)

5a: Rushing Buffalo - Five face mounted blades, double attack : Body : 150dp x2
5b: Dodge, plow through obstructions towards the Ferris wheel.

6a: Scything blades reap wheat - Twin laser blades, double attack : Body : 100dp x2
6b: Dodge, diving into the supports and mechanisms of the Ferris wheel, using it as cover.

=+=+=Status=+=+=
Turbine: Cooldown, unusable next round.
Reflexes: 12/18
E-Shield: Active, lasts until Action 2, Round 3. 50% Damage reduction +30dp to melee attacks

The start of the fight felt like a letdown. Both pilots would activate defensive measures before maneuvering to positions that they felt safe in. No attacks were made, and the circus field's lights seemed to flicker and fade a bit due to the action missing from the place. The lights would come back fully when the Liger Zero piloted by Takeshi began some acrobatics that would put circus acrobats to shame. The Liger could have been in the flying Greysons, if one were to ask the comic book enthusiasts of the crowd, with the suicidal act of diving at the Trinity Liger. With a massive attack, the Liger would dive headfirst at the body of the opposing Zoid only to be met with a similar attack in kind. Both would head the tearing of metal from the armor plating that was the CAS armor being torn asunder as well as their base armor of their Zoids being torn to bits before alarms began to warn that damage had been taken by both Zoids. The E-shield proved the greater shield here, adding more damage to the melee attack as well as halting the damage of the blades, while the turbine proved ineffective due to the angle of the attack against it as well as being meant for pushing away physical projectiles, though the sudden movement from Valk would offset some of the damage taken. (150dp to Trinity Liger body, 110dp to Liger Zero body)

The rockstar of the two would go for another attack while the larger liger did the same, both striking each other with glancing blows due to one being immovable and the other moving much too fast to strike fully while being hit as well. (70dp to Trinity Liger body: Glancing blow + E-shield, 50dp Liger Zero: Glancing Blow + E-shield)

The speed and active shield of the Liger Zero would save it from being totaled by the next attack from Valkyrie's Zoid as it attempted to attack with the face-mounted blades a total of four times. One of the attacks would strike, nearly taking the smaller of species down, before it swapped to the Panzer Unit that Takeshi had kept in reserve. (75dp to Liger Zero Body) (CAS Change; Panzer. Armor totals will be corrected to reflect armor change in summary) Takeshi would launch a double blast of the Panzer's hybrid cannons, or which only one would strike even as the scything strike of the laser blades landed fully on the now slowed Liger Zero. (75dp to body of Trinity Liger, 200dp to body of Liger Zero)

Sparks would leave the bodies of both Zoids as they moved around the battlefield, all while the Judge's creepy clown laugh rang out over the speakers all around, including the communications of both pilots. "Ahahahaha! Let the fun and games begin in full!" After these words the metal plates around the arena would open up and erupt in a blinding stream of confetti that filled the air. It was now nearly impossible to see more than a few meters in front of the Zoid. With all the assorted objects around the field it would be hard to strike at an opponent without being a bit lucky, or being able to see the future. The laughter of the clown judge would continue to ring out randomly, and would do so throughout the rest of the fight.

Summary

Takeshi;
Body: 55
Limbs: Base + Panzer Bonus.
The acrobatics, the e-shield, and the much higher speed/agility saved you from being completely annihilated at the beginning of this fight. Add on top of that the swapping of armor JUST kept you in this fight to make it to round 2! Be careful! Both of you are low, and even the slightest hit will take both of you out of this fight!

Valk;
Body: 5
Your higher armor, heavier Zoid, positioning, and timing of your attacks due to having extra actions allowed you to deal a lot more damage than was expected while facing off against a Zoid that can outmaneuver you while in the same CAS armor. Had the Panzer Unit not been equipped Takeshi would have fallen with the last attack! Be careful! Both of you are low, and even the slightest hit will take both of you out of this fight!

Valk goes first for round two, as foretold in the beginning post of this battle!

Current Armor:
Equipped: Schneider armor
Head: 125 / Body: 5 / Legs (x4): 155 / Tail: 125

=+=+=Narrative=+=+=
“Ahahahahaha! Let the fun and games begin in full!” cackled the Cludge (Clown + Judge..whatevs!) as Valkyrie silenced the wailing alarms, hammering the throttle to full as the wounded wreck of the Trinity liger loped out to meet the approaching hovercargo. The lumbering, smoking, all-but-destroyed zoid vanished into the hold where mechanical arms swooped into action. The cockpit darkening as the glare from welding heads flashed and flickered like the flashbulbs of a pack of reporters as the armor was pulled and minor repairs were made,not enough to really save the shattered central mass of Blackjack, but enough so that the panzer armor could be installed correctly. The woman growled as her zoid reactivated, the computers showing the revised numbers and armaments.

“You may have gotten me good up close...but now you've gone and woken the bear. And this bears packing heat!” snarled Val as her zoid swung out of its armored shell once again, now clad in massively heavy armor, sporting enough firepower to invoke the brown pants clause and with a raging mad-on for turning things into smaller, very much dead things. But first...there was the small matter of bring her arsenal to bear and that meant... “You'll do what I say you will or I'll shoot you MYSELF!” screamed the enraged pilot as the helmsman of her hovercargo balked at the plan he'd been told to follow.

“B..b..but that means we'll be shot at!”
“Don't care. You signed on for the pay...time to earn it. Don't make me bring up what happened to Andy.”
“R..right away boss!”

Valkyrie brought the sluggish zoid around into the lee of the hulking transport, using it as cover against attacks as the confetti drifted slowly, obscuring the battlefield. “I'll be lucky if I could spot anything through this...”grumbled Val as she slunk along in the shadow of hovercargo. “Now theres a thought...”
mused the woman as she ran a series of quick and dirty calculations. As happy as she could be with the random, off the wall idea, Val slugged the data to a volley of missiles, popping the covers open and squeezing the trigger, sending a double volley of missiles rocketing skyward. “This will either work and be suprising as all get out...or it'll fail and I'll have given my position away...” muttered Valkyrie as the missiles arced away, spreading outward, not all racing in a cluster as if they were aimed at something.

Except they were aimed at something. Several somethings even. The falling cloud of confetti covered the battlefield and prevented her from seeing where her target was, but she knew where she was (in close proximity to the Ferris wheel), which gave her an advantage. She had a three hundred and sixty degree 'view' (with radar anyway), but whatever the confetti was made out of, it was playing havoc with the radar, not enough to snow it out completely, but enough to give ghost readings. Which is where her cockamamie plan came in. The confetti was small, it was light, and it drifted on the wind like snow. What if you created your own wind?.

As the missiles reached predetermined positions across the arena there came a ripple of tremendous concussive blasts as the warheads detonated thirty meters above the ground, the resulting pressure waves expanded outward and knocked the confetti from the air, tearing some to miniscule shreds, while most was simply blown aside on the resulting gusts. As the pressure waves dissipated, its energy spent shredding confetti and knocking tents flat like a great windstorm the rush of expanding fire ballooned outward to set what little confetti remained airborne around the blasts ablaze.

Valkyrie grinned. The plan had several key components to it, the blasts would disrupt the confetti-fall across a large swath of the arena (notably, not around her, though the cloud she was in was disturbed somewhat, it still fell), remove the a number of tents that covered the anti-gunfire fields so they were easily visible, possibly knock around her opponent (if she was lucky of course!) and importantly, act as a method to determine her opponents position, her radar pinging a contact as the multi-barreled Vulcan gun (more cannon than gun, but an argument in semantics) pivoted like a striking snake and began to rave, rounds lancing out so fast that the short lived tracers, spaced five rounds apart looked like a laser than a stream of bullets. The rapidly spinning barrels began to glow as they heated, despite the cooling from air and liquid being pumped in, the built in coolant system steaming despite the weather. With a whine the double load of shells stopped, the barrels spinning to remove excess heat as the weapon reloaded automatically.

The Trinity Liger lurched forward again, the hovercargo's crew grateful to be released from being used as a bullet sponge, its weapons ready as it stomped through the confetti cloud that remained after her barrage. Radar still pinging what was hopefully the near-dead liger Zero as the heavier cousin turned to bring its heaviest weapons to bear, rock jacks slamming into place as it braced for the firing shock.
With a rising hum the first of the Hybrid cannons began to build energy, joined several seconds later with one in counterpoint as the second charged to firing state. An eyeblink later a blinding beam speared outward towards the questionable radar contact before the intensity doubled briefly as the second cannon fired, the shock pushing the bulky Blackjack back slightly, leaving furrows where the claws and jacks had torn into the paved ground underfoot.

With the barest shuffle the armored beast adjusted its position once again, the missile pods popping open as the guidance information was fed to the weapons contained within before belching forth a second, targeted, volley of explosive devastation, the total of eight missile trails streaked through the air before a roar filled the air and the ground shook under the bombardment, whatever got hit wouldn't be happy that was for sure. Valkyrie crowed as she saw the status indicator on the vulcan flash green, it was ready once again, ithad to be coming down to the end of the fight, the vulcan gun spinning up once again as the panzer armored Trinity Liger spat lead in the vague direction of its similarly armored opponent, before once more shuffling slightly, adding a slight leftward list (truly an epic maneuver! Listing lazily to the left had defeated many a foe). Pilot raring to go, Zoid all but broken, armored hide rent asunder to expose vulnerable internals and with her second armor in use, there was nothing left to give. Either this would determine the outcome, or Valkyrie would have a date with a form of rook.

=+=+=Actions=+=+=
1a: After-Image, dodging wildly while meeting up with Hovercargo. (Automatic dodge of one attack, once per round)
1b: Commence armor change: Schneider => Panzer (-75 armor to limbs, +250 to body, +100 to limbs. Gain access to panzer armor weaponry. Speed/Agi reduced to 8/20, -20dp to physical and solid damage))
New armor: Head: 150 / Body: 255 / Legs (x4): 180 / Tail: 150

2a: Use hovercargo as cover while working to better position on battlefield (Dodge)
2b: Double attack, Multi-Situational missile pods (4): Arena (confetti rain) : 4x 40dp, x2, Set confetti on fire in wide area, use shockwaves to batter assorted structures, confetti and (hopefully anyway) opponent. Attempt to unveal large area of battlefield.

3a: Double attack, Vulcan gun : Body : 80dp x2
3b: Dodge

4a: Double attack, Hybrid Cannons : Body : 150dp x2
4b: Dodge

5a: Double attack, Multi-Situational missile pods (4): Body : 4x 40dp, x2
5b: Dodge

6a: Double attack, Vulcan gun : Body : 80dp x2
6b: Dodge

=+=+=Status=+=+=
Reflexes: 618
Turbine: Cooldown, usable next round.
E-shield: Offline. Armor unavailable.
Multi-Situational Missile pods (4): 1 missile each.

=+=+=Hovercargo=+=+=
Armor: 300/300
Current Armor: Panzer
Unavailable Armor: Schneider (Body armor totally depleted)

((OOC: Yeeeah, turns out i hate panzer armor, "dodge" with something thats about as speedy as a snail carrying a brick...just can't do it. Listing lazily to the left indeed...))

Battle Narrative:

Pain, his world was pain as the impacts rocked his body in the cockpit, everything hurt from the physical pain of being tossed around, his head splitting with the headache f an oncoming concussion and his lip split from where he’d bitten it. Ribs were definitely cracked as he tenderly pressed on his side, the pilot could taste the metallic tang of blood on his tongue as he ran it around the roof of his mouth looking for further wounds. Things had gone almost entirely to plan, but that was not as much of a solace as he’d hoped. Thunder’s armour was rent and torn in most places, at least where it hadn’t been turned to molten slag, the Liger roared in agony, a sound that cut to the quick of Takeshi’s heart, it played an almost too perfect counterpoint to the screeching cacophony of twisted metal and hissing sparks.

The Highguardian almost didn’t hear the voice that shouted over the top of the chaos, a desperate voice trying to push through the fog of his pain addled brain, a plea for the pilot to wake up and remember what he was doing. A Zoid battle, that’s right, he was in a battle that’s why they’d been hit, he shook his head to try and clear it, instantly regretting the motion as renewed pain lanced through his skull, though this time the pain had a clearing effect, bringing everything in to stark focus, the fresh colours of the cockpit and his surroundings took hold and the voice spoke again, “Takeshi get your shit together, the battle isn’t over no system freeze, get your arse up!” The younger Kimari brother spoke with an aura of authority that almost made the Highguardian Captain snap to attention.

Takeshi hit the talk button with a half closed fist, his voice slurring slightly as he spoke, “Adam, I’m here, going to need two things, first I want you to start playing Highway to Hell, then prep the Jager armour, if they want the Blue Bolt they’re going to get it, no more fooling around.” There was no response from Adam, just the CAS bay door opening on the Hover Cargo, allowing the Liger Zero to enter and dispose of the damaged Panzer armour, the new armour was glossy and blue, the brightest blue the Pilot could find. The pair of large thrusters on the back sat proudly and a new rush of excitement ran through the giddy pilot, the battle was no longer about going toe to toe with anyone, now it was on his terms and he was going to fight it the way he should have from the start; at high speed like only he could do. As they exited the Hover Cargo they fired up the Ion Boosters and rocketed into the cover of the billowing confetti.

Takeshi hit top speed at an acceleration that was frankly terrifying, the gees hit his body like thundering battering rams, the force of each blow ringing against his chest with a wave of fresh agony, but he didn’t care, in fact the pilot smiled, not the smile of someone who was happy but the mad smile of reckless abandon that adorns the faces of the freshly mad, those who had cracked and everything seemed like one big joke, because he was now about to try and take on a heavier Zoid in his lightest armour and for whatever reason, the pilot couldn’t find a f$#% to give. The liger’s claws began to glow their unmistakable yellow, the blinding brilliance flashing out to all who could see, “Strike Laser Claw!” Takeshi yelled as they soared into the air to come crashing down towards their opponent. The terrible glee of the battle madness gripping him was evident in the pilot’s voice as they hit the springy surface of one of the trampolines and launched into the air.

Somewhere within the fog of madness, Zoid and pilot consciousness fused, one thought, one desire. Man and machine had become one in the intensity of their bloodlust, only one thought pervading through the gloom to be heard, victory or death. There was little to no distinction between Takeshi and Thunder now as loud guitar riffs echoed through the cockpit and the battlefield at large as the hard rock of Takeshi’s collection hit its stride in almost perfect synchronous cohesion with the battling duo, their speed hitting incredible heights, launching the Zoid from trampoline to trampoline in their perverse tumbler act. With another cry the Liger’s signature weapon began to shine as they came crashing down towards their opponent once more.

“Takeshi, dial it down a notch, those speeds are going to do you more damage than good, even you can’t handle much more, you’ll pass out and then you’ll really be in trouble.” Adam’s voice broke across the comm link, a hint of desperation in his tone suggested that Takeshi’s actions were beginning to frighten the introverted young man. The voice that responded was strange to the younger Kimari, it was his brother’s voice but somehow it seemed, more guttural and bestial, a deep voice that seemed on the verge of letting out an animalistic roar.

“No I can go faster.” The pilot responded, the horrifying voice leaving no doubt as to the ineffectual impact the younger Kimari’s plea had left in its wake. Takeshi as always was true to his word, and at the push of a button beside his cockpit chair additional boosters let fly and the Liger hurtled across the battlefield at blinding speed, the Strike Laser Claw lighting up again as they flew past their enemy, moving like some great predator from prehistory as it ran down its prey, the feline grace in the Liger’s supple limbs leaving no doubt as to its role in the world.

The additional speed began to tell on the hardy pilot’s body, pressure built up in his chest restricting his lungs and his breathing capacity and black spots began to hover over his vision, the dark embrace of unconsciousness began to hover just at the edge of his mind. Takeshi shook his head to try and clear it, snorting like an angry bull trying to dislodge an errant fly, the Captain shook again as he tried to maintain control and maintain his speed. He didn’t have much longer left as he rounded on the foe, claws lighting up once more as he dove headlong towards the larger liger, he saved his breath this time as he charged, not willing to give up the last dregs of oxygen he held in his lungs. They crashed past the foe and disappeared into the dizzying haze of confetti, “That’s how it’s done…” He whispered as the pilot collapsed against the controls, his energy finally spent and letting himself fall into the darkness of unconsciousness.

1.
A: Equip: Jager Armour.
B. Activate: Ion Boosters: +50% Dodge rate

2.
A: Reflex: After Image: Near auto Dodge
B: Attack: Strike Laser Claw at opponent’s body 130DP

3.
A:  Dodge
B: Attack: Strike Laser Claw at opponent’s body 130DP

4.
A: Dodge
B: Attack: Strike Laser Claw at opponent’s body 130DP

5.
A: Attack: Strike Laser Claw to opponent’s body 130DP
B: Dodge: Into the confetti.

Reflexes Remaining: 4/8

The fight would continue after a short lull in combat, which was both of the pilots changing out their CAS armors and doing what else they felt was proper at the time. The panzer-clad Trinity Liger would release the mass of missiles into the air to clear out the confetti, a success for a quarter of the arena as confetti was burst around to other locations or burned out of the air. Tents would fall, giving more view of the battlefield and allowing the shield generators covered by them to be seen and give away shield positions. This success was met with an unfortunate result as well, the Liger giving itself away to it's now much quicker opponent that landed a direct hit with the strike laser claws. (130 DP body of Trinity Liger)

The heavier Zoid seemed to take offense to this, launching off a rapid barrage from the Vulcan Gun that somehow managed to strike the Liger Zero (80 DP to body of Jager) The strike would cause the attack coming for the Panzer Liger to miss, striking a leg instead, before the two went at each other again. The speed of the boosters adding to the already insane speeds of the Jager were too much for the systems of the Trinity Liger to effectively land a strike. This resulted in the final strikes of the battle as the Liger Zero landed a final blow to the Trinity Liger's body and put it into a system freeze.

The insane laughter of the clown judge could be heard before the official announcement was said. "The battle is over! The winner of this fight is Takeshi!" The judge would slowly move and leave through the ceiling from whence IT came, laughing the entire time.


Notes

To both: Never make it so hard for me to judge a battle Dx Good strategies, both of you!

Valkyrie
It was a close battle the entire time. Both of you know how to use the CAS armor system to its fullest, and it was simply the access to more of those armors that resulted in a win for Takeshi. If he had only two like you did the battle would have ended in your favor.

Takeshi
The CAS armors you had, and the times you swapped to them, resulted in the win for you in this battle. It was close, very close. If you had the same amount of armors as her it would have ended in a loss for you.

Rewards
Takeshi: 12 for unranked win + 10 for 2 rounds of battle +5 for prosperity and a good show = 27 RPC
Valk: 5 for loss + 10 for 2 rounds of battle + 5 for prosperity = 20 RPC

Updated Val. Maybe next time!