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Desert Duel on Serene Sands
The sun had not yet risen, but Akira was hard at work, training his body in the cold sun absent sands of the desert. His soaked hair dripped down sweat from his forehead to his cheek and then onto the dry earth he stood firmly upon. With a makeshift bokken, Akira practiced his swings without the assistance of his power armor. Perfection of the body went hand in hand with perfection of the mind, but everyone had their limits. Akira panted as he swung the bokken for the 854th time. His swings were losing momentum, but he continued pushing himself out of his sore pride. He practiced also to balance the strength his arms, as he performed other exercises to balance his leg strength. Having a prosthetic limb threw off balance, so Akira had to try extra hard to make his left arm match the strength of his prosthetic.

Akira shaded his face as the sun began to rise, noticing the condition of his prosthetic. His mechanical limb was pelted with dents and scratches, and was building up some rust. It had been sometime since he had the limb implanted and its disfigured appearance made Akira consider that it was time for a new prosthetic. He longed for the day where prosthetic would be advanced enough to mimic human muscle growth. Akira had a long two days ahead of him as he had to explain the physics of GN particles to Saladin and work on the Masurao some more. The Masurao was hardly damaged after the last fight, but there were still modifications Akira was contemplating on making. One of Saladin's men then called Akira for breakfast, and following the meal, Akira would continue discussions with Saladin.

"Salam, Saladin." greeted Akira as he stepped into the leader's tent.

"Konichiwa, Akira-sama...your pronunciation is almost perfect. I am impressed. So, how did I fare?" asked Saladin, turning to face his visitor.

"Thank you. You did good, but I am afraid I don't hold a high enough title for sama as it is meant as a respectful honorific for superiors. San would be more appropriate." replied Akira.

"I see. Thank you for the lesson." replied Saladin.

After the greetings, the two moved onto more pressing matters; a GN Particles 101 lecture. Saladin knew all the basics already, but not the fundamentals of how the particles worked. Akira explained in detail the differences between GN and GN Tau drives, as well as the various benefits received from the drives, such as flight, electronic interference, and armor strengthening. Akira also described the special features that appeared on specific power armors, which included GN fields, as well as the various GN weaponry, GN swords for example.

The meeting concluded after a couple hours, and Akira departed Saladin's tent to work on the Masurao in the armory. With such minimal damage after the last clash of blades, Akira thought it would be a good time to test out his theories on unlocking his power armor's full potential. After hours of calculating and tinkering with the Masurao's operating system, it was time for trials. Akira powered up his power armor in anticipation, raising his welder's gloves to get a better view. From a laptop, he scanned the Masurao's drives' output, hoping for a drastic increase, which would end up in an increase in performance, or so he thought. The numbers rose, and GN particles were starting to build up, as the Masurao released an aura blast, that damaged all nearby equipment. However, the particles never stabilized and an explosion followed, issuing a failure.

Akira sighed, but the mechanics that surrounded him seemed to be more upset at the damage caused to some of their equipment. Akira quickly apologized and cleaned up after himself. After also repairing whatever he could salvage, he once again started working on the Masurao. The Masurao now needed physical repairs, and if Akira wanted to have it ready for his next duel with Saladin, he would have to burn the midnight oil. He would have to pour out everything into this final duel, and he wanted the Masurao in tip top condition. He figured he could remove some weight from the frame by removing the head mounted laser machineguns and the clavicle antennae, which he managed to do. He would focus on repairs tomorrow, and hopefully he would be able to best Saladin in combat, for he spent enough time losing to him. His pride was sore with defeat, and Akira was beginning to doubt it had been making any improvement. Soon time would tell exactly how he would fare.



looking for...
Alright so I'm looking to recruit people willing to join as Gundams with Samurai like themes. Here is a list of several mobile suits that would fit under that category. If you are interested let me know ASAP. Also if you think of any other Samurai themed MS, please let me know.

Gundams
Ahead Sakigake: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/00/gnx-704tac.htm
Yamato Gundam: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/7thfight/gf7-013nj.htm
Dijeh: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/z/msk-008.htm
GINN Un No: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/astrayr/zgmf-1017-un.htm
Delta Astray: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/delta-astray/gsf-yam01.htm
Musha Gundam: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/dwg1/mushagundam.htm
Epyon Gundam: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/w/oz-13ms.htm
Gottrlatan: http://www.mahq.net/Mecha/Gundam/v/zmt-s33s.htm
N Dagger N: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/destiny-msv/gat-s02r.htm

Squads
Jenice: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/x/rms-006g.htm
GINN HMT2: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/seed-destiny/zgmf-1017m2.htm
GM Striker: http://www.mahq.net/mecha/gundam/harmony/rgm-79fp.htm

Someone's birthday today
Happy birthday Draco! Hope you liked your battle :P

Surprise Attack!
The Dark Falcons geared up for another patrol, as the last few had been complete failures and just a waste of time. This time would be different thought Clint Reisz, as he equipped his Slaughter Dagger power armor as well as the ISWP pack. Leola, Dakota, and Jimmy followed his lead and did the same. After preparations were complete, all four falcons flew off, metaphorically of course.

The falcons searched and searched, but with no plan and no idea of what they were looking for, it would be hard to investigate activity. It was beginning to look like another quiet night out in the Capital, as a cold breeze blew through the streets of DC. Thanks to the emergence of power armors, weather was no longer as much of a concern during military and police patrols as it had been in the past. The squad was ready to give up, and they did so as the patrol turned out to be another disappointment.

“Maybe if we had some sort of lead, we would know what to investigate.” Commented Jimmy, as the squad passed by the white house, where the secret service maintained high security using their own power armors.

The four power armors returned back to base, their users sighing at their misfortune. Clint Reisz had no idea what his fate had in store for him, but the rest of the squad did. As the gates of the repair bay opened, Clint jumped back as his close friends and family surprised him for his birthday. Clint almost fired at first, thinking it was an ambush, but the sight of a Godzilla birthday cake prevented him from doing so.

“Oh were you guys in on it the whole time? I can’t believe you remembered.” Said Clint.

“Go ahead and cut the cake!” jested Leola

“Sure, why not?” replied Clint, as he withdrew and activated his beam saber at minimal heat settings.

Results: Birthday Party Successful
Slaughter Dagger Squad: Synch 1%, No Damage
Clint Reisz: 3 XP Gained, Fatigued (1), Birthday Cake item found

The White Devil
Apollo Langley searched the Boston slums for some target practice in the form of a Rogue power armor, and hopefully the punk he ran into the night before. Despite his wishes, Apollo did not run into the Blitz Gundam, but instead bumped into the Shining and Rising Gundams. Just as he moved into engage, the Shining retreated, and the Rising shot towards Apollo in defense of Echi Haimura, who was retreating as the Reborns Gundam was deemed a threat.

Apollo acted with haste, transforming his Gundam into cannon mode, jumping back, and then firing continuously with all mounted cannons. The Rising Gundam pranced around beam fire best it could, and the pilot was more than capable due to her martial arts training, but Tanaka Kou was just not synced enough with her power armor, creating a lag effect with her actions. This eventually resulted with Tanaka getting struck to the ground.

Tanaka quickly pushed herself back, narrowly avoiding shots from fangs that had recently launched from the Reborns Gundam. Tanaka uppercut one of the fangs that got too close, using her beam naginata to do so. Apollo backed off after noticing the enemy Gundam battle prowess in close combat, and continued to use his fangs and buster rifle. Tanaka shot several beam arrows to take down the fangs, and combined the efforts of the machine cannons and vulcans in hopes of destroying more.

Time and time again she was struck by beam fire, until chunks of her shoulder and waist armor were starting to crumble off. In a last stand, Tanaka held her ground and raised her arm, aiming it at her opponent.

“Rising Arrow!” shouted Tanaka, in Japanese, as energy collected in the Rising Gundam’s bow.

A giant blast of energy struck Apollo, and the sheer force pushed the Reborns Gundam. Apollo attempted to dodge at the last second, but the attack still caught the left side of his Gundam, and the sheer heat burned off Apollo’s armor, leaving a nasty rash. Luckily, Apollo’s Buster Rifle was spared, and as after the dust settled, he fired the shot that ended the match.

Results:
Apollo Langley: 9 EXP Gained, Injured (1)
Reborns Gundam: 6% Sync Increase, Repairing (3)
Kou Tanaka: 6 EXP Gained, Injured (2)
Rising Gundam: 4% Sync Decrease, Repairing (4)

Cloak and Dagger
Boston had always been a Mecca of criminal activity, even pre-power armor days when Irish gangs would run amuck. Presently, Rogue agents flooded the city’s downtown district. Law Enforcement, Rangers, or USMP were not welcome in these parts, and even the motives of Knights of Barcalaw were questioned. A rumor of one of these mercs being in town spread like wildfire in the taverns.

Simon Cobb was all too happy to investigate. He needed something to do, and maybe it would be fun. Simon put on his Blitz Power Armor, and crept through the Boston’s alleys, cloaking himself with the Mirage Colloid Stealth system every time he would be out in plain view. Simon followed some leads he got from various sources, which was one of the benefits of being a rogue. He eventually tracked the mobile suit, and it was none other than the Reborn Gundam.

Simon followed the Reborns Gundam for quite some time, but he had to act soon, for he knew he was limited on operation time due to his Gundam’s battery powered reactor. The stage was set, and it was time to find out how volatile his enemy was, and how his armor worked. Simon leaped out from the shadows and fired all three lancer darts at the Reborns Gundam, which was followed by explosions, signaling a successful hit.

“This is going all too well so far…I may be able to capture it.” Simon thought, taking note of the direct hit.

Simon fired the Blitz’s anchor, wrapping it around the opponent, and then pulling the Gundam towards him. As the reborn was pulled closer, it was made evident that the lancer darts hardly pierced the Reborns Gundam’s armor due to the e-carbon being enhanced by GN particles. Apollo Langley was exactly where he wanted to be, as his enemy would soon find out.

“Big mistake, rookie.” Commented Apollo as he shocked the Blitz with his Eigner whips, which wrapped around the Blitz’s shoulders.

Simon panicked, but quickly thought of a solution. Using his sole beam saber, he broke free from his enemy’s grasp and hopped back, firing his high energy beam rifle mounted in the trikeros offense/defense system. Apollo responded accordingly with his Buster rifle, but his enemy had managed to distract him long enough to cloak and begin a retreat. Apollo could have tried to track him down, or set the whole area ablaze with his funnels, but that would have been too much effort for a mere street punk.

Results:
Apollo Langley: 3 Exp Gained, +3% Synch, No Damage
Simon Cobb: 2 Exp Gained, +7% Synch, 1 Day Repairing

Top Gun
The Victory 2 Gundam Power Armor shot through the cloudy sky above the desert plains of Texas. Marcus Hunter enjoyed the cheap thrills of pushing his power armor to its limits; he had yet to activate the V2’s Minovsky Drive, but he was still enjoying the unit’s thrust. Caught in his carefree feeling, Marcus was not aware of the dangers in the horizon.

As the V2 approached Vegas, a squad of High Mobility Type Tierens scattered and surrounded Marcus. The only warning was the notification that Marcus had crossed into USMP territory. The statement was followed by units shooting their smoothbore guns at the V2. The shots struck the V2’s armor, but did little damage aside from the occasional dent.

Marcus returned fire with his beam rifle while taking advantage of the V2’s agility. The V2 danced circles around the older Tieren models. Marcus targeted his enemies’ wings, causing the units to come crashing down, but also sparing the pilot. A man of his stature could not be seen killing USMP, as it would make his company look bad, and he would lose profits. Above all else, it was also the moral principal behind it.

“Is this the best you USMP dogs can do? No wonder the country is in shambles.” Jested Marcus.

A Tieren attempted to strike at the V2 with its carbon blade, but Marcus evaded majestically, retorting with a slash of his beam saber and further taunts. The beam saber almost tore off the tieren’s arm, as the wound gushed out blood. The unit dashed passed the V2, and Marcus decided to let it retreat. In the distance, he could see helicopters advancing, with heavier firepower. Marcus decided it was time to get the hell out of dodge, so he enabled the M-Drive and retreated. It was an annoyance that his traveling was cut short, but at least it wasn’t boring.

Result: Marcus Hunter Stalled
Marcus Hunter in Victory 2: 4XP, +2% Synch, 1 Day Repairing

Forum theme choices
Is this theme better, chan?

Writers
I'll try to write for you more, Wild.

Here is my tryout: http://s4.zetaboards.com/Mobile_Power_Armor/topic/8140159/1/#new :P

Desert Duel on Serene Sands
Akira woke up in tent made of cow skin, covered in sweat. Outside he could hear Saladin's men hard at work, yet still discussing the moonlit duel from last night. Akira rose up to check his armor, but then noticed the date. At the rate he was going, he would miss the opportunity to cooperate with the other rangers in the Louisiana Divide. It could not be helped, and besides, Saladin's words replayed in the back of his head. The man had treated Akira, a complete stranger, with respect, and had allowed him to stay in his camp. and during the duel, hinted at further training in store for Akira. Besides, it would be considered rude to both cultures if Akira refused. Akira pushed himself up with his prosthetic, and made his way to his things. He put on a shirt and exited his tent, making his way to Saladin's.

On the way, Akira pondered about how he would improve his performance and stand a better chance at taking down the Sandrock. The Gundam was a fearsome machine, even more so in the hands of such a skilled opponent. Akira's repeated training routines in kendo did not stand a chance against Saladin's sheer experience. Akira also thought of ways to improve the Masurao's performance. As he approached Saladin's tent, guards moved out of the way to let Akira in as their leader was apparently expecting his arrival. Akira bowed as he took off his shoes and entered the tent. Saladin was seated behind a desk, surrounded by several antiques such as old maps, a globe, and library of leather bound books on shelves of cedar. Akira was offered black tea with cardamon and crushed mint leaves mixed into the brew, which he accepted happily. It wasn't green tea, but any tea would do as it had been so long since Akira enjoyed the drink. The spices were also a good addition, strengthening its taste.

"Salam, Akira. How did you enjoy your rest?" Saladin asked.

"Most relaxing I've had in quite some time. I greatly appreciate your hospitality, Mr...I'm afraid I don't know your last name." replied Akira.

"I do not have one. I allow people to just call me by my first, so do not hesitate to do so." Saladin informed.

"Thank you, Saladin. I would like show you my gratitude in anyway I can." said Akira.

"You do not have to, but if you truly insist, your aid would be beneficial to my group, but first I would like to inquire about your unique power armor. It is unlike anything I have ever seen, but resembles the GN-X mass produced models from overseas in terms of armoring and reactors. Would I be wrong in assuming it is superior and that you have constructed it yourself?" Asked Saladin.

"That is correct. The Masurao is my own creation. I have a vast knowledge on the subject of GN particles." responded Akira, blowing on his tea to cool it down.

"I propose a barter. I will continue to train to the level where I think you may be on equal footing with me and let you stay at my camp, and in exchange all I ask for is for you to share me your knowledge. I do not wish for you to reproduce the technology, just teach me how it works. Are you in agreement?" proposed Saladin.

"Sounds reasonable. I accept." replied Akira, as he sipped his tea.

"Very well then. You are free to use my armory if you need to work on your armor, and my men to aid you." concluded Saladin.

Akira bowed and once again thanked Saladin for his help. On the way back to his tent, Akira pondered on his decision to share knowledge of GN technology. Akira refused to in the past as he worried it would fall into the hands of rogues or mercenaries, but Saladin was different. He also didn't think it was that bad of a deal, as GN Tau drives were so mass produced in this day and age. Finally, Akira didn't know how much of a choice he really had, considering he was still in Saladin's camp, although Akira doubted that a man of such wisdom would do such a thing. Akira picked up the large metal container he stored his armor in, and continued to the armory. It was a unique device that could also be equipped on the forearm of a power armor where it would function as a shield when not being used as a container.

After entering the armory, Akira could see all the spare parts from mostly Maganac units. Akira made small talk with the smith in charge, and began hammering away at his own power armor to fix the dents. As he did so, he reminisced about the first Masuaro prototype he built. The unit was composed of a Titanium alloy base, with composite layers of steel and iron plates, and was powered by a sole GN Tau drive. It was unnecessarily heavy and based off original Samurai armor. The sole GN Tau drive also did not provide enough power to thrust, making it far less agile than the current variation. Akira learned from his previous mistakes and made the current Masurao version much lighter and less machine than armor. He did this by using e carbon, a variation of the carbon material that had been used to replace steel in cars. E carbon on its own was extremely light, but also very weak. However, when partnered with a GN or GN tau drive, the armor is strengthened against ballistics by the GN particles spreading throughout the armor, and creating a GN field that covered the body. This phenomenon was known as GN Composite Armor, and it made heavier alloys unneeded. The Masurao MK II as he called it, was such an improvement from the first Masurao, that it threw off Akira's sync rate.

Akira already had plans for a future variation named Susanowo, although he did not have enough information on the current Masurao's faults to create blueprints. He had a few ideas already though. Just before escaping Japan, Akira had managed to read files on a hypothetical function of GN Drive units which allowed the power armor to release all GN particles, supposedly boosting performance exponentially. This feature was still being researched, so the reaction of such a feature was still unknown. Akira had been attempting to unlock it himself but does not have the time to focus specifically on doing so, as he would be neglecting his duties as a ranger. An immediate improvement he decided to make, however, was an increase to the output of his Samurai style GN beam sabers. He could do this by connecting the weapons directly to the GN Tau drives that powered his armor. By doing so, maybe they could be more formidable against Saladin's heat shortels.

Akira worked until nightfall, only taking a break after being directed by one of Saladin's henchmen to do so. It was time for dinner, and Akira and took part of it with the rest of the camp. The Masurao was almost completely repaired, so there was no need for a rush. Akira planned to finish repairs by the next day at noon. At the break of dawn, he would practice Kendo to prepare physically for the rematch the following day, and in the afternoon Akira was requested to aid some of Saladin's men catch dinner for the tribe. It proved to be a good experience for Akira, and definitely a lesson in survival.

Prelude
Akira looked up at Wild, and then leaned against the wall. Wild's words were a grim reminder of his defeat, but Akira knew it wasn't an intentional attack, so he shook it off. Such defeat in the past would be replied with seppeku, but although Akira followed the code of Bushido, he took its teachings with a grain of salt. He noticed Wild glancing at his arm as well as his leg, and he continued the conversation with jest, which was uncommon as Akira was rarely frivolous. He then followed with an introduction as he raised his left arm to shake hands.

"Heh, you should of seen the other guy...or guys...as for my arm, I lost it long before today...my name is Akira, I transferred from California. Pleased to meet you"

Prelude
Grunting filled the hallways of the packed Ranger buildings as a Ranger later identified as Akira Renjiro was strolled in from an evac truck. His power armor was all but destroyed and his right leg was shattered with the armoring embedded into his skin. The pain would make any sane man fall to the ground in tears, but it was not the first time he felt such pain. The loss of his arm was equally painful, although less in duration. Akira slammed his fist into the stroller, denting the metal casing.

"Get his armor off, and get him into an X-ray!" a voice shouted.

Akira was lifted into the x-ray machine gently as not to cause him anymore pain. After a few minutes scans indicated that almost every bone in his leg had been crushed. The doctor decided that the leg would have to be amputated as if it was left as it was, blood was flowing to his leg and he was losing it too fast. If action wasn't taken, Akira would die by blood loss, or potentially by infection in the small chance that the blood would clot. With medical technology as advanced as it was, a prosthetic leg would be the best option. Akira protested but he eventually succumb to logic and anesthetics. Next thing he knew, he was in a hospital bed with a bandaged up leg. He still felt as if he could move his leg, but that was just a delay in his brain's reaction to the amputation. Akira crawled out of bed, grabbing nearby clutches to aid him in his attempts to walk. He didn't get too far before falling on his face. He managed to make it out of the door, but a nurse warned him that he should stay put as the doctors still needed to perform the second stage of the operation; installing the prosthetic.

Desert Duel on Serene Sands
In the outskirts of the once dwelling city of Tucson, Akira Renjiro woke up to a morning breeze that blew across his face. The young samurai had decided that he needed something more than picking on small fry bandits. Akira had heard of a job out East for all would be rangers and it paid better than what he had been getting for apprehending the lowest levels of scum that he was accustomed to in the last few weeks. He had some trouble getting through the California border and was almost spotted by the Barcalow Knights, so Akira decided to lay low and spend the night in Arizona. He took refuge not too far from town, out in the mountains, where he fell asleep with his power armor worn, except for the helmet. Akira was always cautious wherever he spent the night, as he learned from his rookie days as a ranger.

Akira made his way to town, getting passed several highwaymen without really breaking a sweat. That was the other reason he left California; there weren’t any real challenges as it was Barcalow Knights territory. They had really cleared the place out compared to the last time Akira was in the area. He could remember it like it was just yesterday. Three years ago, the West coast was filled with Yakuza gangs that served their higher ups who remained in Japan. There was constant battle between themselves and counter gangs from other countries, such as the Triads, Mafia, and KGB remnants for turf. Civilian casualties were at an all time high, and those who dared to stand up against the gangs were punished. Rangers were so rare in number; some would have to affiliate with counter gangs. Akira was so inexperienced at the time; the only thing he had going for him was his training. All the mistakes he made left a mark on his body as scars.

Finally arriving into town, Akira made his way into a local Ranger’s guild after changing out of his suit. He was hungry but first wanted to gather intel on current events and whether any notorious bounties existed in the area. Akira had grown in experience these last three years, but he still had his faults. He had yet to learn to cook for himself and mostly lived off ramen and the basics. He also felt lonesome these last few months, but that’s what the job entailed. He had gotten acquainted to a pretty officer named Sakura about a year back, but she was supposedly killed in a shoot out. In this type of occupation, finding a significant other was tough. He figured if he at least found others who shared his diligence to the cause, not only would he be less lonely, but their combined efforts would result in change to the way things were. Someday he hoped to be strong enough to return to Japan and take on his father.

Akira walked to the boards where bounties and missions for mercenaries were often posted. There was not much going on in the area that really caught his attention, just the usual “escort merchants” and “protect the highways” sort of jobs that would take too much time and would require almost no effort. Something to the corner caught his eye. It was a bounty by the USMP that seemed to have been posted years ago, which was evident as Akira wiped the dust off. He ripped off the post and walked towards a counter to get more information, but the representative was a newbie who knew nothing of the job posting. Akira took the job and then searched for somewhere he could satisfy his hunger, which was a noodle stand he found a few blocks down. The attendant was an older Japanese man who stood up at an angle and had a long white beard. His name was Yamamori, as his name tag displayed.

“What can I get for ya?” asked Yamamori.

“Yamamori-san, Noodles and a Jar of Sake please.” Akira replied in Japanese.

“Nice to see another of our kind in these parts.” Replied Yamamori.

After general small talk, Akira brought up the job post as Yamamori prepared the noodles. Yamamori knew only rumors of the “Desert Wolf”, and couldn’t help much. He however directed Yamamori to a retired USMP officer named Slade, who knew quite a bit on the subject. Akira tipped Yamamori, enjoyed his meal, and drank a couple cups of sake, which was about the amount he could handle without alcohol affecting his performance in the slightest. Akira met up with the officer and learned all about the legendary “Desert Wolf”.

“Rumors state his sync rate is easily around 90%, maybe more, which would not surprise me, knowing the pilot’s background. He was the user of a prototype Gundam named Sandrock, and escaped the USMP Salem base a few years back. The USMP tried desperately to get the power armor back but failed at every turn. If I remember correctly his name was Saladin. He was a Middle Eastern fellow named after the respected Saracen commander during the crusades. He is very talented and experienced with a good reputation. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Sandrock was upgraded further. If you have any interest in fighting him, it is suicide. He may spare you; I would not take the risk, as he has several people who joined him due to his notoriety. They joined in all sorts of Maganac power armors. Do what you want, but don’t tell me I didn’t warn you, if you survive.”

Akira thanked the man for his information and prepared for his duel. Despite Slade’s warnings, Akira only felt more compelled to fight with this desert legend. It wasn’t for the money, but something more, improvement and to grasp exactly where he stood in terms of experience. Akira rested briefly while his food digested, and then set out to find the “Desert Wolf”. He knew he was close when he came across a Maganac scout after hours of searching. Akira quickly overpowered the lone power armor and swiftly disabled its beam rifle. After doing so, Akira surrendered, and asked the user to take him to see his leader, an act unforeseen by the other pilot. Akira was imprisoned until night fall, and then suddenly brought out for questioning by Saladin himself, who was disguised as another henchman.

“You don’t seem like a USMP dog. Why did you come out here then?” Saladin asked.

“I’m not here on behalf of anyone but myself. I have come here to challenge your leader, and have no desire for his head.” Replied Akira.

Saladin was impressed by Akira’s respect for a mere henchman, and for the fact that he surrendered without a single drop of blood being shed. Saladin suspected if Akira knew that he was questioning him. Saladin eventually humored Akira's request and set up the duel. As a full moon glistened in the night sky, two warriors faced each other. The entire maganac corps watched in excitement and waited for the fight to start, around a camp fire. They shared drinks and took bets, but a few remained ready to jump in and intervene if Akira was to go against the duel’s code of honor.

Training Day
Four cops ran on by, taking highway 75 as the fastest route to where two Zaku II power armors were last witnessed. Ian was still admiring the scent of his Zeta mass produced power armor, taking another whiff like a cook sniffing his stew. The four units now passed through where the Georgia State campus used to be, which alerted Hiromi that they were getting close. He examined his unit’s GPS navigation to be certain.

“When will we get there? Are you lost?” nagged Amber as her impatience was getting the best of her.

Hiromi ignored her as he had in the past, shifting to the right to make it onto an exit ramp, as his team followed. Within a few minutes, they all arrived at their destination, which was the scene of the last crime committed by the gang affiliated Zaku II power armors. Unfortunately, there was no activity sighted.

“See…we’re lost aren’t we?” asked Amber.

“No, this is the right spot…” replied Hiromi, who was at this point irritated.

“Let me handle this.” Announced Jean-Patrick Shapplin in his thick French accent.

“Yeah, sure, whatever works, JP.” Ian replied back, slightly skeptical.

After a few minutes JP returned with information. His people skills and detective work triumphed once again as he managed to gather more accurate whereabouts of the rogue presence through speech and basic tracking skills. The four units headed onward into the tougher parts of Atlanta, which were flooded with run down business and barred up windows.

“Time to look alive, kiddies!” ordered Ian as he clutched onto his beam rifle.

Suddenly, there it was an antique Zaku II power armor. As soon as its pilot spotted five-o, it ran into a nearby alley, ignoring warnings to cease its activities. Hiromi stayed back, not wanting to take the shot as it would hardly stimulate him. He would save himself for something more worthy of his time. Ian stepped in the alley, thrusting forward. The pilot retorted by firing an ineffective machinegun at his attacker. Although Ian’s power armor could have easily taken the beating, he dashed to the left to evade and test out his unit’s agility. Ian dashed back out from behind a trash disposer at the sight of grenade.

“That’s vandalism added to your crimes.” Jested Ian, firing his beam rifle at his opponent.

The Zaku II was pushed back at the force of the shot, which was a direct hit. Ian launched himself at the Zaku II with his beam saber draw; his opponent reaching for a heat axe. With the slash of a saber, the ancient power armor collapsed. The group was ready to call it in, until they realized there was still another unit reported. They searched left and right, until the unit presented itself. From the top of a fire escape, what seemed to be a blue Zaku, took aim.

Acting brash as usual, Amber rushed in, firing her beam rifle at the blue figure. In a matter of seconds, her entire power armor was rocked by rounds from a Gatling gun. She cursed in her native tongue as the damage done cause her to crash into the alley wall. The blue Zaku switched to the offensive, leaping at Ian’s unit with full force, following the move with an aerial side kick. Ian was pushed backwards, and JP advanced forward, only to have his beam rifle destroyed by a heat rod. The entire power armor was electrocuted as the rod grasped JP’s arm.

“This is no Zaku, boy, no Zaku! Hahaha!” shouted the unknown assailant.

Ian pushed himself off his feet and was ready to give it another go, knowing now the technological capabilities of his enemy power armor, but Hiromi had already taken the initiative. Hiromi lunged forward, freeing JP from his torment with a beam saber slash. The enemy Gouf hopped back, and withdrew its heat saber from its shield. Hiromi charged it right on, feeling a thrill he had not encountered in some time. Sabers clashed as a never-ending tug-of-war seemed to take place. After parrying a strike, Hiromi outmaneuvered his opponent and jabbed him in the side with the beam saber.

The Gouf unit fell to its knees, as the pilot was killed almost instantly by the overwhelming heat from Hiromi's saber. Hiromi instantly called in the kill so the power armors wouldn't fall into the wrong hands, like they would probably have if they were left there. Ian walked over and patted Hiromi on the back for his accomplishments, and then proceeded to help JP off the ground. Amber picked herself up as well, wiping the dust and debris off her armor. In a matter of minutes a chopper would come to take away what was left of the two culprits, and take the heroes back to the department.

Results: Hiromi Copress & Company Win
Hiromi Copress: +10XP and +8% Sync; +2 Repair Days