#setting: mk II

[sw5w]

Ees Da Wocka!

STAR WARS EPISODE I: The Phantom Menace 01:00:26

[wordsandrobots]

That's a point actually.

In Gundam's Universal Century timeline, there is a distinction between 'bits' and 'funnels' when it comes to psycommu weaponry (that is, remote-controlled weapons directed via psychic power transmitted across wibble-physics particle fields).

A 'bit' is a fully-realised drone with its own internal generator and rocket engine, as deployed by mobile amours like the Elmeth. These tend to be quite large, comparable to the wire-guided turrets of the earlier Braw Bro.

A 'funnel' is a more refined version of the same technology, trading the generator for a capacitor, allowing them to be scaled down at the cost of operating time. While bits are generally overly large to be mounted on a mobile suit, ten or more funnels can be comfortably stored aboard a single 'suit. I believe the Qubeley was the first on-screen 'suit to come equipped with funnels (expanded universe stuff has put a whole lot in between the Elmeth and the Qubeley, but Zeta itself is pretty restrained with its psycommu machines' abilities).

(Side note: the massive fin-funnels on the Nu Gundam mess up this nice, neat distinction, since they have on-board generators. Technically, they should be called bits! But I suppose we can attribute that to the Federation lagging behind Neo Zeon when it comes to this technology and ripping of their enemies' work.]

Now, because funnels are much simpler, much more cost-effective and - most importantly - allow for easier rendition of cool fast-paced swarm-tactics, UC Gundam has tended to emphasise them over their clunkier predecessors. The Psycho Gundam Mk II uses 'reflector bits', implying these are generator-equipped devices, but this aside, it's much more likely to encounter someone shouting 'funnels' as they unleash a zippy storm of fast, battery-powered laser guns.

However, with the red Gundam in Gundam: GQuuuuuux sporting bits ripped straight off the Elmeth (we'll see how literal that is in due course, I suppose), it got me wondering how much this naming convention has been carried forward to the rest of the franchise.

The Rose Bits used by Gundam Rose (that's the French one) in Mobile Fighter G Gundam are designed as smaller versions of the Elmeth's bits, with a floral twist. Although the Rose carries a seemingly limitless supply of these things, there's no reason to assume they are meant to be mere funnels: the tech level in G Gundam is *way* higher than the UC (or the cartoon logic dial is turned way up, your choice), so miniaturising fully self-contained drones would presumably be trivial.

G Fighter also introduces an additional category of somewhat-related weaponry that will be carried forward into the next series, Gundam Wing - a fully remote-controlled mobile suit.

The Death Army are kind of on the border with this, since while they technically have pilots, those people have been subsumed by the Devil Gundam's nanotechnology. It's also not clear to what degree they act independently and to what degree they are merely extensions of the DG. However, Wing's mobile doll system is far more cleanly a case of an on-board computer running a mobile suit sans human pilot, with dolls either acting autonomously or while directed by a central operator.

Wing also features the Mercurius mobile suit and its 'planet defensors', which are closest we see to traditional bits or funnels in the After Colony setting. These disc-shaped drones can detach from the Mercurius in order to project a forcefield to deflect those pesky beam attacks (something some iterations of UC funnels are also capable of).

Like funnels, these rely on regular recharging to remain operational. They're also the start of a sub-tradition for the AU series to present drone weapons that are almost but not quite reiterations of the UC originals. Gundam SEED's DRAGOON system will continue this later.

Returning to the release order, Gundam X sees bits evolve to one natural end-point: the Flash System and the Bit Mobile Suits. Combining the mobile doll idea with the psycommu concept, these see fully-functional mecha slaved to a manned 'suit, allowing a single psychic to become an army.

Which is great, in terms of maintaining a consistent classification scheme, since mobile suits certainly fit the criteria of 'possessing an on-board generator'. However Gundam X also gives us the Vertigo (OK, Bertigo if we're going to insist on official names), an equivalent of the Qubeley equipped with a swarm of . . . bits. I mean, they're funnels. They are the same idea, with a very slightly altered design, animated in an identical manner. If funnels are named for their shape, that would equally apply here. But it doesn't.

And it makes sense. This is the same technology as the bit mobile suits, in story; why would they be referred to differently? So we get a simplification of the terminology that is then carried forward into most subsequent non-UC series.

Gundam 00 refers to drone weaponry as either 'bits' or 'fangs', the distinction being somewhat opaque but apparently hinging on how stabby the individual units are. They're otherwise identical in concept, relying on stored power, housed on a mobile suits, controlled by 'quantum brain waves' (or a handy robot sidekick), and enabling fast-paced swarm tactics.

Gundam: The Witch from Mercury likewise features 'GUND-bits', coming in both funnel-like and full mobile suit forms, the former of which sees a return to forcefield projection and of bit-on-bit/funnel-on-funnel combat.

Overall, I think it's a fairly logical progression. 'Funnels' makes total sense when you see a Qubeley or its derivatives, but is otherwise an somewhat odd term, whereas 'bits' naturally implies component parts or separable units.

Now, the only question left is whether GQuuuuuux will be written with sufficient nerdishness to not only depict bit vs funnel combat, but take the time to provide a breakdown of the difference between the two types of drone.

[athena-gundampla]

HGUC 1/144 A.E.U.G. Mass-Produced Mobile Suit MSA-003 "Nemo"

It's done!! Yet another GM clone to add to my collection. Funnily enough, the Nemo really is a GM clone, as in the lore it's not a deviation on the RGM-79 design but rather a mass-produced suit based on the failed moveable frame prototypes such as the Delta Gundam and later Hyaku-Shiki.

I picked up this kit to add a unique colour to my display, as it's got a greenish-turquoise that stands out from all the red and white, as well as to flesh out my Zeta collection.

Despite it's unique colour, the colour separation is super disappointing. The main secondary colour on this kit, apart from the navy and turquoise, is bright red, for all of the vents, the soles of the feet, and for the cockpit (just like the Mk-II Gundam). However, there isn't even a single red runner in the box! These would be really simple parts to colour separate, but instead I had to spend a lot of time painting all these parts red. There's a complete set of foil stickers for colour correction, but I didn't feel like they were worth it.

Apart from a bit of colour correction, I added a bit of chrome and gold detail with my paint markers, including some chrome behind the visor, which really makes it pop. I also added some detailing text and a few A.E.U.G. stickers I got from my new (unbuilt) GM-II kit, as well as a few other spares I had lying around. This was only my second time freehanding text on a custom suit, but I think it turned out pretty nicely.

I did a very in-depth breakdown of the weathering process I used for this build, which you can find here. I find complex weathering is often really good for these older simpler kits to supplement the lack of surface detail.

The articulation is pretty disappointing, with limited shoulder mobility, and only single-jointed knees and elbows. However it can still pull a nice pose.

This kit comes with 7 different option hands, including two closed fists, two open fists, a pistol grip, and two open hands. It's really nice to see such a wide variety of hands as it opens up more options for cool poses. The kit also includes a uniquely shaped shield, which can collapse by rearranging parts, an updated beam rifle with a swing-out foregrip, and two rear-skirt mounted beam sabers with fluorescent green UV-reactive effects parts.

I really liked this kit, despite the flaws with articulation and colour accuracy. It was a lot of fun to build, paint, and customize, and it's a really good looking GM-clone.

All that's left for now is my GM-II, to round out my EFF display. Watch this space!

[dangerousblizzarki]

🎬Total Drama Action🎬

Episode 12: "The Aftermath II"

"You think Julia might be looking at the stars now?" - 🏒

"You can do better than that." - 🏹

I wanna get this out before I go on a break again.

-----

Context Below: Time to be cringe once again :D

Just to clear things up, No Axel and Bowie aren’t romantically involved with Wayne here. There also isn’t any love triangle happening or at least the seeds for it being planted.

Why did I use Axel exactly?

* The only other option left is Millie. MK, Nichelle, and Lauren are on the other team. While Emma and Priya are out of the game at this point.

* I haven't used her that much yet.

I apologize for any grammatical mistake or typo that I might've made below, and if this isn't worded that well.

—--

The cast (especially Bowie) simply isn’t fond of Wayne and Julia’s budding relationship mostly due to how unbearable the latter was to be with when they got to stay with her last season at the resort as she got out of the game midway. (late pre-merge)

Since Julia got kicked off very early this time in a double elimination (along with Chase) for simpky not being liked, the cast thought that this was the perfect time to warn Wayne about being with her as he wasn’t able to witness exactly how she was at playa for making a considerably deep run last season.

Bowie coming from a place of concern as the boyfriend of Raj, who is Wayne’s best friend, orchestrates a plan on how they could get him to lose interest in her as he doesn't want him to go through any potential mistreatment from her like they did.

Normally, Bowie doesn't meddle with the relationships of other people nless he can get something out of it or it concerns someone he has connections with.

and maybe the thought of potentially having to attend double dates with the person he hates the most was enough for him to hurl.

—--

Now come the images. As Wayne was thinking about Julia, Axel was simply not having it anymore. As his friend and the only person left who has the guts to tell him directly what the cast thought of her, told him that a guy as nice as him shouldn’t waste his time on someone like her and he deserves someone much nicer. (Much like in canon, Wayne is well liked while Julia is despised so that greatly affects how they see the pair in this AU.)

Wayne retorts that there’s something more to her that they just haven't seen yet. (Hence the Basic Straining edits)

The second image is Julia finally catching onto what the cast was trying to do, which also sets up her more ruthless approach to the game and to the rest of the cast when she returns.

And the final image is Bowie realising what he’s done after witnessing Julia storming off.

Okay that'll be all. See you in a few weeks at the minimum👋

-----

Reference:

[monkeyssalad-blog]

036 Aston Martin DB2-4 Drop Head Coupe (1954) 186 UYL by Robert Knight Via Flickr: Aston Martin DB2:4 DHC Mk.1 (1953-55) Engine 2922cc S6 DOC Production 565 Mark I models 102 were Drophead Coupés. Registration Number 186 UYL (London) ASTON MARTIN ALBUM www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623759800132... The Aston Martin DB2/4 is a grand tourer, designed by Frank Feeleyr produced from 1953 until 1957. It was available as a 2+2 hatchback saloon, drophead coupé (DHC) and 2-seat fixed-head coupé. Based on the DB2, which it replaced, with the key changes being the addition of two small rear seats and an opening rear tailgate giving access to the luggage space. Other changes included a single-piece windscreen, larger bumpers, and repositioned headlights. Early version were powered by the same 2580cc 125hp dual overhead cam straight-6 Lagonda engine as the outgoing DB2.In September 1953 the Saloon received a 140 hp 2922cc VB6J variant, followed by the Drophead in April 1954 increasing top speeds to 120mph The DB2/4 Mk II model, introduced in 1955, offered an optional large-valve, high compression 165hp engine, Other changes included small tailfins, bubble-type tail lights as on the Morris Minor, and added chrome. The bonnet horizontal split line was also changed from door sill height to a line carried backwards from the top of the front wheel arch. Of the 565 Mark I models produced, 102 were Drophead Coupés. Diolch am 92,347,630 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr. Thanks for 92,347,630 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated. Shot 23.04.2022 at the Bicester Spring Scramble, Bicester, Oxfordshire 158-036

[demifiendrsa]

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - Release Date Announce Trailer

Japanese version

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the second game in the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, will launch for PlayStation 5 on February 29, 2024.

The game will be available in the following editions:

Physical – Across two game discs; includes a reversible cover, and the preorder incentive of the digital “Midgar Bangle Mk. II” armor at participating retailers

Standard Edition ($69.99)

Deluxe Edition ($99.99) – Includes Mini-soundtrack CD, artbook, and SteelBook case.

Collector’s Edition ($349.99) – Includes large, highly detailed collectible statue of Sephiroth, Deluxe Edition contents, along with digital DLC items including downloadable content “Summoning Materia,” allowing players to summon the Moogle Trio, and the “Magic Pot,” along with equipment, like the “Reclaimant Choker” accessory and the “Orchid Bracelet” armor. The Collector’s Edition will be available to pre-order in limited quantities from the Square Enix Store.

Digital – Includes the downloadable content “Moogle Trio Summoning Materia.”

Standard Edition ($69.99)

Digital Deluxe Edition ($89.99) – Includes digital Mini-soundtrack, digital artbook, and digital downloadable content items including the “Magic Pot” Summoning Materia, “Reclaimant Choker” accessory, and the “Orchid Bracelet” armor.

Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade ($20) – Can be purchased to upgrade previously purchased Standard Edition, adding Digital Deluxe Edition contents*

Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Twin Pack ($99.99) – Offering great value during the pre-order phase, the Twin Pack includes Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, available at launch, and the full game download of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade which will be available to play as soon as the Twin Pack is pre-ordered.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Digital Deluxe Twin Pack ($119.99) – Includes Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade full game download plus all Digital Deluxe Edition contents.

■ About

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the highly anticipated new story in the Final Fantasy VII remake project, a reimagining of the iconic original game into three standalone titles by its original creators. In this game, players will enjoy various new elements as the story unfolds, culminating in the party’s journey to “The Forgotten Capital” from the original Final Fantasy VII.

After escaping from the dystopian city of Midgar, Cloud and his friends set out on a journey across the planet. New adventures await in a vibrant and vast world – sprint across grassy plains on a Chocobo and explore expansive environments.

An Expansive World

As the party searches for Sephiroth, you will explore the beautiful, expansive regions of the world and open up new areas to discover. Dig deeper into the world of Final Fantasy VII with rewarding side content and mini-games, plus various unique forms of transportation to navigate the world.

An Evolved Battle System

Combine strategic thinking with thrilling action combat alongside your comrades, including newly added characters. Deepen their relationships to unleash powerful team-based combos.

Beyond the Walls of Fate

In this standalone adventure for fans and newcomers, Cloud and his comrades venture across the planet, their fates unwritten, making each step outside the dystopian city of Midgar fresh and mysterious.

■ Story

For years now, the Shinra Electric Power Company has been providing the world with energy at the expense of the lifestream, the “river” whence all life flows and whither it returns.

After storming the company’s headquarters and engaging in a series of battles for the ages, Cloud and his companions leave Midgar behind and set out for the wider world. Once in the grasslands, they hop aboard chocobos and embark on a journey with an unknown destination.

Meanwhile, Zack—beaten and battered from his fight against an army of troopers—hobbles across the wastelands into Midgar with a mako-poisoned Cloud on his shoulder. Though he has managed to escape death for now, the ominous rift in the sky gives him little reason to rejoice.

That is hardly the only threat facing the world, however. The Shinra Resistance Committee, backed by Wutai’s interim government, declares war on the company; figures shrouded in black robes carry with them the corpse of Jenova, a veritable calamity from another world; and the Weapons—fierce and monstrous guardians of the planet—have recently awakened.

Amid this chaos, Sephiroth has set his plan in motion, thus ensuring myriad fates intertwine and are birthed anew.

■ Characters

Cloud Strife (voiced by Cody Christian in English, Takahiro Sakurai in Japanese)

“There’s no point in wasting our time worrying about fate if we can’t change it.”

An ex-SOLDIER: first class, Cloud came to Midgar to start a new chapter of his life as a mercenary. At the invitation of his childhood friend, Tifa, he accepts a job with Avalanche. Together, they confront Shinra, ultimately leaving Midgar behind in pursuit of Sephiroth and the truth─a quest which will lead them to defy destiny itself.

—Weapon: Sword

He fights by switching between modes specializing in mobility and offense. A single swipe of his huge sword can knock several foes off their feet at once. Some of his abilities also allow him to take the fight to the air.

Barret Wallace (voiced by John Eric Bentley in English, Masato Funaki in Japanese)

“This is the planet we’re talkin’ about! Y’all know she’s gonna pour her heart and soul into this fight!”

The leader of an independent Avalanche cell, Barret spearheads an operation to take down Shinra’s mako reactors. He pays a hefty price for this, however, when the company retaliates, and his comrades die in the crossfire. Armed with the memories of his lost friends and the newfound knowledge of Sephiroth’s plans, he departs Midgar in hope of saving the planet and safeguarding a future for his daughter Marlene.

—Weapon: Gunarm

What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in both sturdiness and strength, converting his anger toward Shinra into raw firepower. He employs a variety of ranged attacks, from rapid-fire salvos to powerful explosions, which allow him to strike foes high in the air or across the battlefield.

Tifa Lockhart (voiced by Britt Baron in English, Ayumi Ito in Japanese)

“Ever wish you could just snap your fingers and forget the worst stuff?”

Though a loyal member of Avalanche—an underground organization that opposes Shinra—Tifa nevertheless questions the group’s extremist tactics, struggling to reconcile her cause with her conscience. This internal conflict reaches a fever pitch when her group’s actions effectively lead to the fall of the Sector 7 plate. Racked with guilt, she leaves Midgar in search of a new path to tread.

—Weapon: Gloves

She strings together swift combos while utilizing a variety of martial art techniques. Her ATB fills quickly, allowing for the use of multiple abilities in rapid succession. She also boasts several skills that deal more damage to airborne or staggered foes.

Aerith Gainsborough (voiced by Briana White in English, Maaya Sakamoto in Japanese)

“Just look at it all… A living, breathing planet. Even after everything we’ve done to it, it’s still going strong.”

A flower seller who lives in the Sector 5 undercity and the last remaining descendant of the Cetra, a people known for communing with the planet. Shinra takes her prisoner in their efforts to reach the Cetra’s foretold “promised land,” but Cloud and company come to her rescue. She escapes Midgar and embarks on a journey into the outside world of which she has long dreamed.

—Weapon: Staff

Utilizing the power of magic, she casts spells from a safe distance and launches attacks that home in on her foes. She can also conjure beneficial wards and warp between them, as well as restore the party’s HP with her limit break.

Red XIII (voiced by Max Mittelman in English, Kappei Yamaguchi in Japanese)

“I may be clad in fur…but that doesn’t mean I’ll purr.”

Red XIII is a beast with a flaming tail, crimson fur, deadly claws, and the ability to speak. Cloud and company help him escape Professor Hojo’s clutches, and he decides to join them on their journey. His species is known for their long life spans, and he is no exception. As this Cosmo Canyon native is the eldest member of the party, he offers its members words of wisdom from time to time.

—Weapon: Collar

He sets upon foes with an unrelenting assault, laying into them with a beastly ferocity. Guarding against incoming attacks will feed his Vengeance gauge. Once it is full, he can unleash his inner beast, but sufficient skill is required to maximize its potential.

Yuffie Kisaragi (voiced by Suzie Yeung in English, Yumi Kakazu in Japanese)

“If I win, you get the honor of serving yours truly!”

A member of Wutai’s elite corps of ninja operatives, Yuffie infiltrates Midgar on a mission to steal the “ultimate materia” from Shinra. Her plan ends in disaster, as she fails to claim the materia and loses her partner Sonon in the struggle. Just as working alone begins to take its toll on her, however, Cloud’s group comes into the picture.

—Weapon: Throwing Star

Using her throwing star and ninja skills, she excels at both long- and close-range combat. Elemental ninjutsu allows her to exploit enemies’ weaknesses without relying on spells. She also keeps opponents on their toes with a variety of aerial attacks and tricky techniques.

Cait Sith (voiced by Paul Tinto in English, Hideo Ishikawa in Japanese)

“Alright, everyone! By popular request: a fortune or two to steer you true!”

A wisecracking, feline-shaped robot often seen poised atop his big moogle pal. One of the Gold Saucer’s most popular mascots, he is well loved for his fortune telling—a service he also offers to Cloud and friends. His adorable appearance also belies access to a surprising amount of insider intel on Shinra.

Sephiroth (voiced by Tyler Hoechlin in English, Toshiyuki Morikawa in Japanese)

“Don’t be afraid. It’s not death—it’s a homecoming.”

A former SOLDIER: 1st class of legendary renown, he is said to have died in the line of duty in Nibelheim five years ago. This is proven untrue when he appears at the Shinra Building and absconds with a research specimen known as “Jenova.” He now toys with Cloud at every opportunity, seeking to change the course of destiny and rule the planet.

Zack Fair (voiced by Caleb Piece in English, Kenichi Suzumura in Japanese)

“I dunno—hopes? Dreams, maybe? Something like that! So long as we’ve got those—and hold on tight and never let go.”

Zack may have worked with Sephiroth as a SOLDIER: 1st class, but he trained under a different operator, and it is from this man that he both learned to take pride in his work and received his iconic buster sword. After a grueling battle in which he overcomes the odds and cheats death, Zack returns to Midgar—where he hopes to see his love Aerith—with a mako-poisoned Cloud in tow.

■ System

The Evolved World of Final Fantasy VII

In this game, players can freely roam across lush grasslands and rugged wildernesses, all while enjoying a wide variety of quests and mini-games. Face off against the threats that await you by teaming up with your comrades and unleashing powerful new synergy abilities.

Combat

Action and strategy combine in thrilling combat, now made even more exciting thanks to the addition of new team-based abilities.

From flashy, action-packed fights to slower, strategic battles, this game offers ways for players of all persuasions to enjoy combat.

World

The world is divided into several regions, with each one offering different environments to explore and experience. Where you go and how you get there is up to you.

■ Combat: Basic Systems

Fighting

Press [□] to perform a normal attack. Dealing damage will also fill the ATB gauge needed to use abilities and spells.

Commands

Open the command menu with [x] to enter Tactical Mode, which slows down the passage of time. Devise your strategies in the moment or register commands as shortcuts and use them as your intuition deems fit.

Abilities

Equipping weapons and setting materia will grant access to a wide range of abilities. Using these abilities requires you to expend charges from the ATB gauge, which fills as time passes or whenever you deal damage.

Magic

Magic materia can be set in weapons and armor to enable the use of spells such as Fire and Cure. Casting spells consumes both ATB charges as well as MP.

Unique Abilities

Press [△] to activate a character’s unique ability. Some of these abilities do not require ATB, but instead take time to charge.

…And More

■ Combat: Summons

Summons

Setting summoning materia will grant access to the power of the gods. A conjured deity will follow the player’s lead and fight enemies automatically, but you can also instruct them to use special abilities. Before they depart the battlefield, summons will unleash one final attack powerful enough to wipe out any foe.

Odin

A horse-riding swordsman who brandishes an enormous blade known as Zantetsuken. He gallops toward foes and sends them flying with a single, sweeping slash.

Alexander

An enormous, armor-plated weapon that towers over even other summons. No ordinary foe could possibly withstand an assault from its entire arsenal.

■ Combat: New Systems

Synergy Abilities

Powerful attacks in which two characters team up to turn the tide of battle. More abilities will unlock as you increase the party level—a numerical expression of how closely-knit your team is—and deepen the affinity between party members. Fill the synergy gauge by using unique abilities and prepare to unleash a synchronized assault!

Cloud / Sephiroth: “Double Helix”

Sephiroth unleashes an elegant flurry of strikes, and Cloud does his best to follow suit.

Aerith / Cait Sith: “Kitty Cannonade”

Aerith imbues Cait Sith’s moogle with magical energy and unleashes a ranged attack.

Yuffie / Barret: “Ninja Carbine”

More Barret and Yuffie lean into their shared prowess and unleash a ranged attack.

…And More

■ World: Chocobos

Chocobos are the adorable feathered friends of the Final Fantasy series. In this game, once you catch a chocobo in the wild, you can call it at any time in that region, and it will offer you special assistance in traversing its home terrain. You can also customize your chocobo’s equipment to create a steed that’s suited just for you.

Chocobo

Hop aboard your chocobo to explore the world with ease. Try sprinting if you’re in a hurry to reach your next destination.

Mountain Chocobos

Using their mighty talons, these chocobos can climb up and down steep slopes that bear special markings. Even if a destination seems inaccessible by foot, you might be able to get there on chocoback.

Sky Chocobos

These chocobos can take flight from gliding ranges and soar across peaks and valleys. Take to the skies and nothing will stand in your way.

■ World: New Forms of Transportation

In addition to chocobos, this game features many ways to get from one place to another. Take your friends on a buggy ride through the wastelands or do some seaside sightseeing aboard a wheelie… Put these various vehicles to use as you explore the world!

Buggy

The buggy, which can be ridden across sandy terrain, can also drive through shallow water and travel faster than chocobos. Buckle up and take the party on a wild ride through the vast desert.

Wheelie

In the seaside resort of Costa del Sol, you can ride around on a wheelie, a two-wheeled self-balancing vehicle. Tour the town at your own pace, all while taking in the beautiful scenery of this land of eternal summer.

■ World: Minigames

Not only stories and battles, but all kinds of unique elements of fun await players.

Enjoy the numerous minigames available across the game’s world.

G-Bike

The “Spinning Slash,” which uses a large sword to reap enemies, and the super-accelerating “Nitrous Boost” are just a few of the many things you can do in this bike game. Fight off the relentless gun-shooting participants and win the battle that goes beyond just speed.

Chocobo Races

A fierce race to test your chocobo riding skills. Break the balloons that appear along the way to use various techniques. Deepen the bond with your chocobo and aim for first place.

3D Brawler

Manipulate 3D polygons and take on your opponent in a one-on-one match. Avoid your opponent’s attacks and deliver a powerful punch. If you have powerful limit moves that you can unleash by continuing to land hits, victory will surely be yours.

■ Messages from the Development Staff

Yoshinori Kitase, Producer

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has been set for release on February 29, 2024. This second installment of the Final Fantasy VII remake project will feature elements from the previous game, as well as greatly enhanced features such as the vast world map to explore and synergy abilities with party members. The story will unfold more dramatically than ever before, with a rapid pace of major twists and turns. We know fans are dying to see one scene in particular��

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth can be enjoyed on its own as a standalone adventure, with the party leaving Midgar to explore the wide world beyond. But for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the story, a recap of the previous game will also be provided.

“We hope that both fans and those who have never played Final Fantasy before will enjoy this game.”

Naoki Hamaguchi, Director

“We are finally able to announce the release date to all of you! We have been working tirelessly on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth since the release of Final Fantasy VII Remake, and we can’t wait for you to experience our labor of love. In this title, Cloud and his friends, who have fled Midgar, will be setting out on an adventure across an expansive world of untold adventure in pursuit of Sephiroth.

“While the main storyline is bigger and more ambitious than the previous game’s narrative, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth also embraces the concept of ‘free exploration,’ with compelling stories, fun mini-games, powerful monsters and so much more to find throughout the world map. We hope you will explore this world in great detail, as nearly 100 hours of adventure awaits.

“We hope you will take this new Final Fantasy game experience in your own hands to enjoy.”

Tetsuya Nomura, Creative Director

“This is the second title of a trilogy, and covers between the start of the journey outside Midgar to the midpoint of the original Final Fantasy VII. If Final Fantasy VII Remake was an introduction to the world and a preparation for this journey, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth serves as an illustration of the incidents that started the journey, an exploration of the people tied to it, and the journey itself, heading toward its climax. Many elements were carefully selected for this title and because this is a series, we have the unique opportunity to review and incorporate feedback from the previous title, such as by increasing the number of characters. I am sure that the bar for the next work will be raised even higher now that we have included so many spectacular elements in this work, but even so, the entire team continues to work diligently and without compromise on its development.

“There is also the looming question of what fate awaits. Whether you have experienced the original title or will embark on this adventure with fresh eyes, we hope you will face the ending of this work on your own terms.”

[osakanone]

Do you have any design peculiarities you find the most appealing?

This might be rude or even sacrilege, but I like to adjust designs I think are interesting to bring out features I find more appealing -- or to experiment by finding different elements of their character, to exaggerate what I find the most physically attractive.

What I notice is I while I find longer legs more appealing, what I really like are bodies with balanced proportions, a smaller thorax, and to break up big elements into smaller ones.

The Loader-4 for example, has a second joint in the thigh to help break up the leg, and it has an intermediary between the shoulder and the core.

The same is also true of the shoulders of the TSF-Su-47 from Muvluv, which has similar breakup which I think could lend it more expression and a more readable appealing silhouette.

Again this is all down to personal taste: these are the shapes I personally find the most attractive.

Does anybody else also do this, or have their own favourite feature-sets they find the most appealing and attractive?

I'd like to invite conversation, and talk about this more.

e: Kinda clumsy but this is what my brain "sees" underneath, like the mecha is a costume for a smaller daintier robot I guess?

e:

Someone wisely spotted I am in fact, down bad for the L-Gaim MK-II.

e:

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

On March 25, 1966, Foyt (and about sixty other drivers) competed at Sebring International Raceway in the first Trans Am race ever held. Foyt was by far the biggest name in the race and challenged early for the lead, but dropped out on lap 32 of 67 lap. A young Formula One driver virtually unknown to American fans despite winning the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans—Jochen Rindt —won or race even though he was driving an under 2-liter Alfa Romeo 1600 GTA. The next day Foyt was teamed with Ronnie Bucknum in a Holman-Moody Ford GT MK II for the 12 Hours of Sebring. The pair battled car problems throughout and finished 12th, 36 laps behind the winners Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby. Despite the car problems the pairing seemed like a good match and Foyt/Bucknum were set to drive a Holman-Moody entry in the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans.

[sullustangin]

Fluffy February Day 12 -- Argument

SWTOR

Time: 32 ATC//shortly after Fluffy February Day 1

Pairing: Theron Shan/Smuggler, but this is more of a family fluff piece.

~~

“That is your worst argument yet for not telling them yet.”  Lana Beniko aimed her criticism at herself, in the dim reflection of her shuttle’s viewport. 

“Of course Satele Shan will tell them when she meets the baby!” was the latest stupid idea Lana had about trying to break the news about Dyominia, the last addition to Theron and Eva’s family.  Now they were in transit to Satele’s last known residence….

And Lana was trying to beat them there in a bloody MK-II shuttle that might fall apart, trying to do the silly feat of catching up to Virtue’s Thief. 

Because –

Because she’d dawdled about telling Eva that her child was a freak.  Because she’d tried to spare Theron the idea that he could have been a Jedi, but the genes just didn’t express themselves.

Because little Argo was just like his father and mother, and his baby sister was absolutely not.

And he’d wanted to be like Lana when he grew up.  And she knew he never would be.

…Lana had felt that child’s power when she was just a few hours old, swaddled in Lana’s arms while her mother finally caught a break to get a shower.  And now Dyo was eight weeks old, and much like Argo, Eva insisted the girl needed to get on the hyperlanes or else she’d be a terrestrial forever. 

Eva had been the one who wanted a hospital birth, but once her children had passed all the relevant tests and gotten their vaccinations, she was keen to set them loose on the galaxy.  An itinerant childhood hadn’t done her any harm and had left her with an open mind.

Nor had it been a bad thing for Theron.  Up until the end, his childhood had been a grand adventure in helping the galaxy in small ways.  It gave him unique perspective – a unique sense of compassion, even for criminals and Imperials.

Which is why the three of them were the closest of friends…

And Lana was now wearing a groove in the floor of the MK-II shuttle as it rattled.  She’d maxed out everything now, even curtailing life support and interior lighting to try to get that extra bit of power, trying to catch up to the Thief. 

A blip on the sensors, and Lana nearly crashed into the dashboard, setting commands for it to keep pace with her tracking target.  She immediately opened comms.  “Lana to Virtue’s Thief, please come in.”

There was a brief crackle as Eva picked up the line from somewhere on the ship.  “Hi, Lana.  Everything ok?”

Then Lana realized how bad it must have looked for her to be here and tearing her shuttle to pieces in the process –

“Um, we might want to have the conversation on the Thief.  Out of hyperspace.  Sensors are saying Lana’s ship isn’t doing so hot.” Theron sounded both worried and utterly confounded at the same time.  “What are you doing here?”

“Is Odessen still in one piece?” Eva asked. 

“Yes, this is  -- well, I’ve made it a personal thing,” Lana admitted.

“Lana, we’ve talked about internalizing things,” Eva lectured her.  “There are better ways of saying ‘I love you’ than going on a suicide mission.”  There was then a very loud AHEM as fabric shifted over the comm – Theron had moved past Eva and down the hallway. 

“Preparing for boarding,” Theron called back to his wife.

“Dropping out of hyperspace.  That’s gonna wake the kids.

Lana suddenly had a vivid memory of her parents teasing her, at the supper table, about how when she was small and they drove the speeder around their city block on Dromund Kaas until they ran out of fuel or she fell asleep. 

She let her eyes close as she smiled, and by touch, she pressed the button that permitted the Captain of Virtue’s Thief to initialize docking procedures.

~~

Eva greeted Lana with her arms crossed as the Sith came through the door.  A tiny figure with a blanket over his shoulders seemed to be more asleep than awake, leaning against Eva’s leg. 

Then “AUNT LANA!” came the joyous recognition, and the four-year-old launched himself right at her.    

Lana easily caught him.  “You should be asleep.”

“I woke up when the ship stopped.  Not ‘sposed to happen.”  Argo turned to his mother, and Eva gave him a nod.  Argo then returned his attention to Lana.  “Why are you here?”

Lana opened her mouth to answer, but Theron stepped through the door quietly.  He had the same question, but there was a world of difference between the curiosity of a child and the scrutiny of a former SIS agent and now the spymaster of Odessen. 

Lana briefly and mentally gave herself a pep talk about why this was the right thing.  “Before … Satele told you… I wanted to.”

Theron tilted his head, his face a crafted blank but his eyes already heading toward that intense gold.  “About what?”

Eva had always been sharp.  “This a Force thing?  Sensing something in the galaxy?  Something change since we launched?”

Lana shook her head.  “No, I’ve been a coward.  Procrastinated.  Let my feelings get in the way.” 

Theron and Eva then exchanged a look, and then Lana almost wilted under the intensity from both Technoplague and the Voidhound. 

But Lana wasn’t weak now.  “Dyo is very special.” 

The parents froze, as they realized –

“I know!” Argo cheerily replied to Aunt Lana.  “She’s always been special and she gets more special every day!” 

Lana let her teeth catch on her bottom lip for a moment.  “Argo, I believe she can do things that most people in the galaxy can’t.”

“I know!” he insisted.  “She’s doing them right now.  She woke up when the ship stopped too.” Tucking his blanket into his nightshirt collar, Argo scampered down the hallway, makeshift cape flapping behind him.

Theron, Eva, and Lana followed, in that order, around the curved hall of the ship to the crew quarters, which had been converted into a rather large nursery for both children. 

And what they saw made Lana’s breath stop, for a moment, and her eyes didn’t go to the baby in her cradle.

They went to the toys and nightlights that spun slowly around the nursery, held aloft and high in the air. 

Lana heard Dyo giggle.  The first smile had come right before they’d left Odessen.  This… was a giant extension of that. 

Theron’s hand went over his heart, and Eva immediately grabbed his other hand.  “Steady on.” 

He nodded, but Lana could see the myriad of emotions parading across his face. 

Eva gently took Argo's hand into hers. “And she does this every night?”

“Yup!”

Eva paused, eyes going back to the mobile above their heads.  “She does it when she’s happy?”

Argo considered the question for a moment, then nodded.  “They drop if she cries.”

“I’ve been wondering why this place turned into a minefield after lights out,” Theron joked, weakly. 

Lana finally pushed her opinion on the situation out there.  “I have absolute faith you can handle it –”

“Oh, we’ll handle it,” Theron said.  “I just don’t how much of the galaxy will be left standing, between her and her brother, who’s known the whole time…?” He dangled the question and a look down at his son.

“Yup, whole time!” 

“Of course he did.  He isn’t a narc.”

“Eva.”

“What?”

Oh, this was going to be interesting.

And Lana wasn’t going to miss a second of it.   

~~

@fluffyfebruary

[saym0-0]

when I do eventually listen to spg would you recommend I look into the lore/characters/?? first or listen to the songs first or like. something

— @siren-mic

hough im not sure! i got into them through mechanisms crossover fics if im honest lol but i wouldn't recommend that without the spg context first lol. you might have osmosis'd the basic info about the characters from tumblr (me) but if you havent hmm. okay im sorry this post is a mess bear with me

i think start with some of the live recordings ill link a few under the cut :3 i recommend starting with post 2014 stuff just bc of rabbit's transition, but the pre 2014 stuff is also super good once you know the characters a little better!!

after 'getting to know' them a little w the live shows id probably recommend listening to the albums in order? (album one (2009 is the best version), the 2¢ show (probably their most famous album), MK III (my second favourite album! !), the vice quadrant (this one is a space opera split into two parts and i will be SO real i havent listened to it at all), the music of steamworld heist I (videogame soundtrack, it has some of their biggest songs from the first two albums rerecorded and some banger new ones), quintessential (my favourite album! the vibes r great), 1896 (this one is also REALLY good) and music from steamworld heist II (i have only listened to like three songs admittedly but i need to finish it its really good)! and their upcoming album i believe is named seventh. can you spot a theme? /silly

and!! the members thing. before you get into the band its probably important to note that they began with four members, Rabbit, The Spine, The Jon, and upgrade. you'll see them together in the busking videos. upgrade left because she didnt like singing all that much (though in canon she left to... have tea with the queen, attempt to kill kate middleton, and turn into a dragon? #justgirlthings) she's in album one (2009) (2011 is a re-recorded version without her and not as good imo), and then the jon left in 2013? or 14. in canon he left to become the mayor of biscuit town (a town in kazooland which. is a long story). he's in album one and the 2¢ show. hatchworth replaced jon and was in mk iii, vice quadrant, swh i, and quintessential. i think he left to go fishing in a boat he borrowed from the jon. the last bot and current third member is zer0! loml <3 hes in 1894 and swh ii :3

this is so long oh my god sorry. theres so much lore and i have no idea how it got into my head. um. theres comics! they're a little annoying to find though icl.

maybe. i need to start again jesus this is so much word vomit

okay so. this got long. dont feel obligated at all to actually watch these, im aware my autistic ass has accidentally found almost every video of them on youtube to watch at one point or another 💀.

^^one of my favourites everr- and the first video of rabbit post transition ive found which is cool

^^early zer0!

^^ from october last year and just a really good version of the song

their first big thing after busking was performing at san diego zoo, so heres a big ol playlist of those shows ! (these all are from i belieeve 2011-13 so pre transition rabbit :( )

this ones my own playlist of all the balboa park (busking videos) i could find which is where they began!

[redarmyscreaming]

The Martlet Mk II monoplane was the F4F-3A (without two-stage engine supercharger) fitted with the folding wings of the F4F-4. The aircraft had worse performance at greater heights than the version with the two stage supercharger. Nevertheless, it met the requirements set by the Fleet Air Arm (FAA) for carrier-based fighters. It had folding wings, which assured that it could be housed in the cramped confines of aircraft carrier hangars, while its performance was sufficient to intercept enemy reconnaissance aircraft. In comparison with the British Navy’s previous carrier fighter, the Sea Gladiator biplane, the Martlet was very modern – and it was faster and more maneuverable than the larger, two-seat Fulmar.

[hirocimacruiser]

Cyber ​​A'PEX Evo.VII 2003 Tsukuba fastest specification

MODEL

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo.VII CT9A 4G63

MODEL YEAR

2001 model

CAR BODY

Normal/less than 1200kg

MAXIMUM POWER/MAXIMUM TORQUE

650ps/73kgm

SETTINGS/BOOST

1.7kg/cm2

ENGINE

Port processing

A'PEX RX6B TCW76LS-P25

A'PEX water-cooled wastegate

JUN engine parts

power enterprise reinforced cam belt

oil filter

INTAKE AND EXHAUST SYSTEM

A'PEX power intake

EX Manifold Cyber ​​Evo (Altrak)

Front pipe AP engineering one-off

Input manifold Cyber ​​Evo (Altrac)

AP Engineering One Off R-95 Muffler

A'PEX drag intercooler Type B

A'PEX GTspec, Radiator Type R

TOMEI Thermo Killer

oil cooler HPI

Injector 800cc

Pump for TOMEI GT-R

Plug NGK No.10

SUSPENSION/DRIVELINE SYSTEM

front rotor cyber evo

Pad Zero Cross Cyber ​​Evo SPL

Brake hose AP Engineering SPL

AP Lockheed adjustable P valve

A'PEX N1 Damper Type PRO MK Sports Specification

A'PEX N1 spring!!

Stabilizer normal modification

Bush AP Engineering Full Pillow

Tire ADVAN A048 F 255/40-17 R 255/40-17

Wheel RAYS CE28N

F 9.5J-17 +15 R 9.5J-17 +34

Mission Normal (High Cross)

Diffs. F Cusco, C Cyber ​​Evo (ACD), R normal modified

Clutch ORC twin plate

Flywheel ORC lightweight flywheel

Roll bar Cusco 8-point type (AP Engineering modified)

AP engineering spot addition/body reinforcement

CONTROL SYSTEM

A'PEX Power FC

A'PEX AVC-R

A'PEX EL System Meter II

A'PEX reflex speedometer GP

NEKO A/F640

OIL

Engine oil REDLINE

Mission OBERON

Diff OBERON

INTERIOR

Steering KEY'S RACING

Seat RECARO SP-G

Seat belt ΤΑΚΑΤΑ

EXTERIOR

C-WEST GT-Wing, F bumper, under spoiler

Side step, carbon bonnet trunk

AP Engineering Link Acrylic Door Glass

rear polycarbonate glass

[a-krogan-skald-and-bearsark]

So my Mercenaries Kickstarter arrived today. I was anxiously waiting in the living room for it from about an hour before the scheduled delivery time.

I heard the click of a door open and YEETED myself off the couch at the door. I think I was out on the front step before mister delivery man had it out his van.

Included is: Mercenaries Box Set. Battlefield Support: Objectives. Battlefield Support: Battle and Fire, Battlefield Support: Assault and Cavalry, Visigoth Salvage Box, 3 Mercenaries Salvage Boxes (Starslayer, Dervish, Hoplite), and 4 Legendary II & III Salvage Boxes (Loki mk II, Charger 3K, Charger 3K, Warhammer)

Also Ghost Bear and Dominion challenge coins.

Not pictured, Hurbie the Love Urbie

Reckons the vehicles are mostly gonna end up in Olive Drab. The MASH is getting 4077 painted on it somewhere.

And I'm gonna do some rejiggering of my force orgs divvy up the IS 'mechs between my existing FRR force and some ComGuard/WoBbies

[athena-gundampla]

HGUC 1/144 P-Bandai Titans Research Prototype Mobile Suit RX-124 "TR-6 [Woundwort]" (XFS Knockoff)

My build for AoZ April - the Woundwort from Advance of Zeta - Flag of the Titans!! I was flirting with picking up a TR-6 for a few months but the shipping price on top of the already high P-Bandai markup made me reluctant. Luckily XFS had a knockoff for less than a quarter of the price!

I've built a kit from XFS before, the GM Spartan. Just like that kit, this bootleg is pretty high quality, definitely on par with Bandai, with pretty much no flashing and no more mould lines than an actual Bandai kit. However I did find that the tolerances were a lot worse, with some pegs being a little too large for their slots, requiring a decent amount of glue to hold everything in place. Unfortunately this messed up part of the Mobile Armour transformation but it doesn't prevent it luckily.

Just like the GM Spartan, the XFS Woundwort comes with a set of high quality water decals, although I couldn't find an application guide and so just made up my own placement which hopefully looks balanced.

The kit itself is a really neat design, with some cool features that minimize parts-forming for the transformation and lend the suit a unique silhouette.

Lorewise the TR-6 was a test platform for a lot of technology that never made it into later designs and the unique look helps to emphasize this. The small dainty feet with fold-down sections resembling an Armored Core's landing gear rather than feet, the twin Minovsky Fusion power plants in the thighs rather than a single one in the chest, and the massive Long Beam Rifle/Claw make the Woundwort unlike anything else in Gundam.

It's not a particularly big model, standing at around the height of the Mk-II, but the Long Beam Rifle/Claw definitely takes up most of the kit's display space.

The colour separation was pretty good, only missing some purple on the heat blades on the beam rifle and the tips of the shoulder stabilizers. There are colour correction stickers for these but I opted to just paint them. I think they turned out really well, you can't see the brush marks at all. There's also enough shiny foil stickers in green for all the sensors as well as eyes (which are unfortunately hidden behind the nose-cone), and a yellow one for the federation "v" on the front skirt, which I also ended up just painting. I also painted the red details on the arms and booster nozzles, as well as the really cool red fingertips, and the red targeting sensor on the beam rifle (which is gloss coated to look like the metallic stickers). There are also some yellow details on the legs that need painting on, which are visible in the Mobile Armour mode.

This kit comes with two open hands and two open fist options, as well as the Long Beam Rifle/Claw in its Rifle Form, with extra parts and a stiff wire to convert it to the sub-arm mounted Claw Form.

There's also an extra "folded" torso that allows the parts to be folded and rearranged into the TR-6's Mobile Armour mode. I painted some of the details onto this, but it's really not visible at all, unfortunately. The little extra winglets also slip on for Mobile Armour mode but I'm not sure where they're supposed to be stored in Mobile Suit mode.

Overall, I had a lot of fun with this knockoff. It's almost as good as I imagine the P-Bandai version is, although I'm sure it'd be a lot easier to pose with better fitting parts. If you're willing to put the work into it, and spend some time figuring out how to put the decals on without a guide, it's a great alternative to the office version and it'll provide a really cool looking addition to any collection.

Happy (Advance of) Zeta April from my Zeta display!!

I'm hoping we can get AoZ April a little more popular on Tumblr, I'd love to see what people come up with.

[icewarrior2000]

Shada

Summary: Well, as far as I can make out, everyone at some Cambridge University college is very het up about a book.  The Doctor gets a Time Lord pal, who briefly turns evil, but seems to be alright by the end of the episode, and there’s an even eviler guy who follows everyone around with a floating ball.  Because it's set in Cambridge, there’s punting and bicycles and porters and a whimsical clarinet on the soundtrack.

Watch it because: Tom Baaakeeerrr.

Original Air Date: Too complicated.

Doctor: Tom Baker.

Companions: Romana (Lalla Ward) & K9 Mk II (Voiced by David Brierley).

Writer: Douglas Adams.

Director: Pennant Roberts/Charles Norton (Animation).

Producer: Graham Williams & John Nathan Turner/Charles Norton (Animation).

[howlingday]

Training Day

Setting - After a crushing defeat by Ruby Rose, Cinder Fall has become most grievously demoted to the low, low, low, LOW ranks in S.I.C. Now, she has an opportunity to climb the ranks to her rightful place as Ruby Rose's arch nemesis! She just has to show her... nurturing side.

Cinder: Level Five... Can you believe that?!

Mercury: Yeah, yeah, I'm just as angry about it as-

Cinder: (Glares)

Mercury: Er, the next underling of yours, but look on the bright side; we have an in with Salem's Inner Circle, so we should be able to rank up no problem. (Knocks on the door)

???: (Speaker) Who is it?

Cinder: Ah, shit, what do we say?

Mercury: Uh, pizza?

???: Is it fat free?

Mercury: What the- Who's ever heard of fat-free pizza?!

???: It's a thing!

Cinder: It is not a thing!

???: Yes, it is, I-

???: Give me that!. (Sighs) Come in, Cinder. We're expecting you.

---------------------------------------------------

Melanie: Welcome to Salem's Inner Circle!

Miltiades: Ta-da~! Here are your name-tags! So, have you, like, had breakfast yet?

Mercury: Nah, not yet.

Cinder: No.

Melanie: Good. (Presses button, Floor drops)

SLAM!

Cinder: (On the floor) Ow...

Cinder: Why didn't we fly down? And how are you two okay?!

Melanie: You get used to it. Welcome to the real Salem's Inner Circle!

---------------------------------------------------

Miltiades: So, like, what are you here for?

Cinder: We're trying to level up. Preferably with something beyond the scope of inspections and "climbing the ladder".

Melanie: Well, the fastest way is to be a good "earner". Atlas tech, dust shards, a legendary huntress's head, cash...

Miltiades: Ooh! Like, what about that new thing? The, uh, Big Villain Program? All you have to do is tutor a new villain, train them up, and it, like, totally adds to your annual eval score!

Cinder: Hm... And who would I be tutoring?

Melanie: (Flips clipboard) Just one applicant. Asturias. Level one. Registered nemesis is... Farmhand and the White Window.

Mercury: Wait, wait, you mean that dorky kid RWBY dragged along and the Schnee kid?! Cinder, we gotta do this!

Cinder: We'll take it!

---------------------------------------------------

Mercury: No... fucking... way... He has the Glass Cannon Mk. II! How is this guy only a Level One?!

Cinder: Right?! The Glass Cannon! I can still remember stalking RWBY as they fought this thing! It's like visiting home... Well, if home was where you watched your parent get murdered.

Mercury: ...Eh-

Cinder: I know, I know, I heard it.

Mercury: Oh! Well, if you heard that, then maybe you also saw that! That's the real deal Sand-Striker! Sly Stallion drove that in Thunder-Strike IV!

Cinder: Oh, I remember that! Remember how ripped he looked using that rocket launcher bare-chested?!

Jax: Good afternoon. (Leaning on a cane, Coughs) Welcome to the Hall of War Machines, now including the first three Phalanx Tanks. The fourth should arrive in a week.

Cinder: Oh. Uh, I wasn't aware this was also a terminal illness hospital. You, uh, wouldn't happen to know where we might be able find Jax Asturias, would you?

Jax: (Weakly laughs) My sister warned me I might be hazed by my Big Villain. Thankfully, I prepared for this by wearing my super absorbant, disposable undergarments, just in case you decide to tickle me. I tend to soil myself when tickled.

Mercury: ...

Cinder: ...Are you fucking kidding me?! This is Jax Asturias?!

---------------------------------------------------

Mercury: Are you kidding me?! That's an original Bat-Man costume from the What If? series! Where'd he get this thing?

Gillian: (Rolls her eyes, Looks away)

Cinder: I like his Number Two. She's quiet. You should take notes on her, Mercury.

Jax: (Walks in) Ta-da! How do I look?

Cinder: I... I don't get it.

Mercury: No, he's a star. See? Asturias? A-Star-ias?

Jax: Should it be tighter? Sexier?

Mercury: No! God, no-

Cinder: (Waves him off) Eh, let's just move on to the evaluation. So, uh, what kind powers do you have? Can you pull a star from your chest?

Jax: This is made of hard plastic.

Mercury: Do you have any superpowers? Like, were you bit by a radioactive ant, or something?

Jax: Uh, let me see (Pulls out medical sheet, Rolls along the floor) I have-

Cinder: Uh, actually, what kind of special skills do you have?

Jax: I have mind control.

Cinder: Perfect! We'll get you a top of the line semblance amplifying helmet and-

Mercury: Blackout clouds! Loaded with nerve gas!

Cinder: He's Level One... Oh! (Writing) Blackout clouds loaded with laughing gas...

---------------------------------------------------

Mercury: (Driving Glass Cannon, Giddy) Rrgh! Fuck, I love this thing!

Cinder: I know you do. So, Mr. Asturias, are you ready for your first PENIS?

Jax: I... don't understand.

Cinder: It's an acronym. It stands for Preliminary Effective New Information Schooling. It's like recon, but you bust shit up!

Jax: Then why not call it recon instead of PENIS.

Mercury: Snrk! I'm sorry, instead of what?

Jax: Instead of PENIS.

Cinder: Pfft! Of what?

Jax: Of PENIS.

Mercury: Can't hear you back there!

Jax: PENIS! I said PENIS! PENIS!

---------------------------------------------------

Cinder: (Holding a megaphone) More smoke!. Now throw your catchphrase!.

Jax: Look out peons.

Mercury: Use the PA! You're supposed to be big and scary!

Cinder: Reset!

Jax: (Uses PA) I hope you brought protection because you're about to be conquered.

Mercury: Gross, dude! Protection?

Jax: You know, bodyguards?.

Cinder: Don't improvise! Reset!.

Jax: What flavor is this fog? I'm getting hungry.

Cinder: Blackberry! Now come out of the smoke and give your evil laugh!.

Jax: (Steps out)

Mercury: Over here! You're facing the wrong way!

Jax: The fog is disorienting.

Cinder: Evil laugh!.

Jax: I will get you. Nyeheh-heh-heh...

Mercury: What the hell was that? Are you dying?!

Jax: That was my evil laugh.

Mercury: Well, it's a little scary, but not in the way we or anyone else wants. Do a real, from the gut, bone-crusher of a laugh!

Cinder: Reset! Real evil laugh! Do not make a fool out of me in front of Ruby!.

Jax: Buahahangh...

Mercury: Stop putting that gross inflection at the end there! Here, listen to a pro! Show him how it's done, Cinder!

Cinder: (Smirks, Sets aside megaphone) Alright. (Stands up, Cricks neck) Here we go.

MWAHAHAHAHAHA!

Cinder: (Watches as birds fly off buildings, Picks up megaphone) Reset!.

---------------------------------------------------

Jax: (Inside a smoke cloud, Via PA) Farmhand, I'm coming for you! I hope you brought protection~.

Mercury: Ugh... So close...

Cinder: For the love of- Don't improvise!

Jax: Get ready, because you're about to see stars~!. (Fires star gun, Slices apart solid steel and knocks down the satellite antenna)

Cinder: SHIT!

Mercury: Uh, that wasn't Level One, was it?

Mercury: ...Oh! Look! Haha! He's taken out like it's trash day! LOSER!

Cinder: Nice costume, Rose! Looks like a real winner, and not stolen from Scooby-Doo!

Mercury: He's coming out of the smoke! And he's facing the right way!

---------------------------------------------------

Jax: I see you've brought your servant. Coward. I left my servant/sister at home.

Whitley: I'm not a servant, and family aren't servants! (Reaching into his pocket) Eat sneezing powder, Asturias! (Hand gets stuck)

Oscar: Listen to me and listen, uh, good, Jax! We may be outclassed, but we have you out manned! And it is in the darkest when, you know, you can't find a flashlight with working batteries that good always triumphs over evil!

Jax: Take this, Farm-peasant! (Weak laughs, Gas can rolls few feet away)

---------------------------------------------------

Mercury: Evil laugh fail AND he just gassed himself.

Cinder: Ugh, this is... Wait, what's my wife doing here?

---------------------------------------------------

Jax: (Coughing, Laughing)

Whitley: (Coughing, Laughing) W-What is this?! L-Laughing gas?!

Oscar: (Coughing, Laughing) Jax, y-you asshole! I'm... I'm gonna puke in my armor suit!