Battle Rondo Opening Ceremonies

	Welcome to the Battle Rondo Arena, home of the Busou Shinki Battle Rondo.

	It is a massive stadium with a roof, easily as large as any sports arena and capable of seating thousands of full sized humans in multiple levels. Near the arena floor are numerous large boxes filled with tiny seats for shinki spectators, as well as private boxes for the Masters of tournament fighters and the fighters themselves who are not actively fighting.
	The arena floor itself is a massive holographic projector, relaying the tournament bouts on an enormous scale. Individual shinki render at close to three meters tall, along with all of the terrain surrounding them. At this enormous scale, shinki combat can be seen clearly even from the nosebleed section.

	The actual battles take place on a small table in the center of the arena floor. The visualizer here projects the images and battles re-broadcast for stadium viewing by the much larger holofield.
Contents:
Ezio Auditore
Allie
Serori
Nathan Hall
Fayt Ravus
Fassad
The Shade
Kagenashi
Metta
Jinxel
Tesla Armadia
Shizune Nakamura
Visualizer(#2938T)


--

	Welcome to the Busou Shinki Battle Rondo Arena, the place where the yearly Busou Shinki Battle Rondo is held. An enormous stadium that is buzzing with activity both large and small. Thousands of spectators have filled the seats for both humans and for shinki, while many more shuffle through the aisles on their way to sit down, carrying confections and jelly cans.

	The ceremonies haven't started yet, however the enormous holographic visualizer which forms the arena floor replays highlights from last year's Battle Rondo to pass time while spectators seat themselves, competitors steel their nerves, and the hosts prepare for the presentation.

	Currently, the display is occupied by a castle at night. It sports several holes in it. A Proxima dashes across the parapets, engaged in a tense firefight with an aerial Arnval Tempesta. Tempesta's beam cannon chews through another bit of scenery, while Proxima dives, rolls, and comes up with her scattergun raised to return fire.

	The projection pauses, then zooms out to the MMS Logo, then out further to the Busou Shinki Battle Rondo logo, projected on a large rotating sphere. Beneath it is a counter, which just has a few minutes left.

	CAN YOU FEEL THE HYPE?

<OOC> Vervi says, "Muuusic http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viBSgtKPswE"

	 Wow! Another Busou Shinki tournament!

	 Though usually one to avoid the tournament seen, given her terrible luck, Jinx is nonetheless here with her Shinki Selena with the intention of competing. After all, not only did she win 3rd place in the last tournament, it was also how she first met Selena. Aaaah, memories.

	 Speaking of the little Brightfeather Shinki, Selena is currently out of her battlegear and perched comfortably on Jinx's head.

--

"Oh this is so exciting!" There may be shinki sized seats but personally Saiga prefers the view she can get sitting on Tesla's shoulder while they wait. "It's every fighting Shinki's dream to get a chance to fight in the Battle Rondo."

Tesla nods a bit, sipping at a cup of coffee she got at the concession stand. "It will certainly be good to see all the different models in action again."

--

	There's a newcomer this tournament, although no doubt several of those here will recognize her. Shizune Nakamura has done a fair bit to make herself a public figure, after all, both by her dealings as a Union ally and her entries into the WMAT. She's here today in a trendy blouse-and-skirt ensemble, and though no Shinki is in evidence at the moment, the fact she's waiting in the prep area indicate that she is, indeed, competing. She's also watching the goings-on interestedly.

>>> SUMMARY - Shizune Nakamura <<< - Hey, look who's here, it's the punchgirl.

--

	Kirikou has no real idea what to expect of the Shinki battle tournament. He's fought alongside Fuki and has great respect for the little warrior, but has never actually seen Shinki-on-Shinki violence. With him are his twin demon weapons, currently in their child forms. They seem eager to see what's going on. They're fans of any fighters even smaller than they are, though they're probably less interested than most in seeing the actual fighting. They're here entirely for the fighters.

	Oh, and Kilik and his fighty twins are in the spectator area, not the battle stage. Kilik enjoying the battle projection and getting hyped along with the rest of the audience. The children with him are apparently cheering; in the noise of the crowd their muteness is likely to go unnoticed.

--

	The fighting hasn't even started, and Serori is already taking the tournament far too seriously.
	The stance she's taken is forbidding. Feet planted firmly at shoulder width, her strong arms folded across her polished chestplate, her eyes narrowed and flinty, her jaw set, her chin lifted to imperious heights, she stands among her fellow competitors like the rest of 'em are a thousand frigid miles away. She's hardly even /looking/ at anybody except to glance -- and glance /away/ -- whenever a new arrival should appear. The little frown she wears masks anything resembling friendly charm or her more usual sly mischief.
	Contrarily, the little Shinki buzzing near her is sweet, smiling, and happy to engage in conversation. A Murmeltier model, the Shinki features a pair of back-mounted robotic arms ending in one large fist and one long, tapering barrel. The arms are easily manipulated by the Shinki wearing 'em, as demonstrated whenever she uses the hand to wave cheerfully at one of her opponents. The rest of her is uniformed a sleek black and white outfit capped by a black hat. The hat has stubby little pointed ears mounted on top.
	She introduces herself as "Zanke" to anybody who walks by. Serori is ignoring this, although it's noteworthy that whenever Zanke starts chattering at /her/, her stern little frown becomes less pronounced.

--

	The Shade is just here in the capacity of a spectator.  He has never seen one of these 'Busou Shinki' tournaments and is curious about what they're all about.  Particularly because he happened to procure himself a Shinki at some point.  As he moves to take his seat, there is a black-and-white painted Shinki with green hair on his shoulder.  She wanted to ride on his top hat, but Shade refused -- it looked so very undignified, for both of them.
	Seats are found, and he watches the visualizer's presentation until the timer appears.  "Not too much longer, hm?"  He turns his head to look at the Harmony Grace on his shoulder.
	"It's almost time!"  She bounces a bit on his shoulder.  "I'm excited!  I've never seen a Battle Rondo before.  Oh, neither of us have, that's right!"  The Shade just chuckles at her enthusiasm.

--

	 In the waiting area, there is a man who /really/ is doing everything he can to stick out. This is hard, with such a colorful crowd. But, he's trying to stand in just the right spot where some wind might be blowing into his hair and cape, just for effect. And as he smiles, his teeth shine with a magical light, to get people's attention.

	 And they're still just only in the preperation area.

	 His Shinki, an Olbern, sits on his right shoulder.

	 "Hey, Master, listen! I think the ceremonies will be starting soon!"

	 Fassad smiles and nods at his Shinki, "That's right, Serafina. It should be starting soon."

	 Serafina is a simple name... Too simple, for Fassad. Should he decide to adopt her, he'll have to amend to that name a bit, he thinks.

--

	There's no better way to get used to technology than participating in events involving it, and that is exactly the intention Kagenashi has for this tournament. Perhaps she may even get a new follower from all this. She remains in the prep area, leaning against a wall with her arms crossed over her chest in such a way as to make the blades on her arm-mounted sheaths point outward. One leg is idly crossed over the other, and she stands perfectly still for the most part.

	A glance is given toward Shizune. Yes, Kagenashi does recognize her, and there's no doubt the punchy student will do the same, but the nogitsune doesn't make any sort of remark to the girl. She simply looks ahead again after a moment, still silent and waiting.

	On the top of her mask is a Shinki, a Renge model, who is far more excitable and chipper than the serene woman she perches upon. The fox-like shinki sways back and forth, humming some sort of cheerful tune as she looks around excitedly at people around her. The Shinki named Mae definitely fits the fox motif of her master, though their demeanors hardly match at all as Mae happily greets anyone who passes by with what could be called patriotic gusto.

--

	Alicia thinks Shinki are cool, but has never had much interaction with them beyond the radios. So this is a perfect opportunity for her! Right now Alicia is sitting at a table in the preparation area, head propped up, elbows on the table as she watches the Shinki on it with a grin.

	The Swan type Shinki, Kiki, is doing some explaining of what she can do, "-and they fold up, forming a shield for me. But of course, then I can't fly."

	Alicia nods quickly, "Sounds very cool. So are you nervous about the tournament?"

	Kiki shakes her head, "I've participated in many tournaments over the years. It's one of the main reasons I was activated. That includes the Battle Rondos, though I've yet to place in one."

	Alicia nods slowly this time, "Well, hopefully we'll be able to win this one!" She softly pats her temporary Shinki.

>>> SUMMARY - Alicia T. Harlaown <<< - Same Shinki, new Master!

--

	Nathan's here! In unassumingly casual wear, over properly where the masters of the competitors are. He's very difficult to notice in any remarkable capacity, unless you happen to be caught up with the political stuff. There's probably dozens of young everyman-looking guys just like him here, though. Cameoflage!

	Wherever the competitor's masters are intended to be, standing or sitting, that's where Nathan is for now! Probably nervous, considering the other Elites present that stand out... A little bit more than he does. He's recognizing some faces he's nervous about, albeit quietly and stoically. Hopefully, Vervi's here with him.

	While not particularly intense about it, he is respectfully attentive to the countdown and what will, inevitably, come after it.

>>> SUMMARY - Nathan Hall <<< - Here! And probably cameoflaged in a crowd of everyman protagonist masters, let's be honest here. Anyway traditional stoicism and blank expression, with some nervousness.

--

	Oh, Shizune sees the nogitsune, all right. The exact moment she realizes Kagenashi is there can be marked by the moment the look on her face goes from 'interested calm' to 'stony neutrality'. It is the same look she wears at the negotiating table, in combat, when trying to talk down a foe; an even, emotionless expression to hide any thoughts or feelings beneath the surface.

	There is just that moment of eye contact, and then Shizune moves on.

	She moves on, in fact, to another Confederate, but one whom she knows tends to be rather more genial and less 'cruel, evil bitch'. "Ah, Zanke is it? It's good to meet you. Nakamura Shizune. Your master and I have spoken several times." And, seemingly seeing right through Serori's Super Grumpan aura, she offers the Confederate general a polite bow and a friendly smile. "Speaking of which, it's good to see you, General. It looks like you may finally get your wish to face me, after a fashion.

>>> SUMMARY - Shizune Nakamura <<< - >:| @ Kagenashi, ^_^ @ Serori.

--

	Of course Vervi is here, sitting on Nathan's forearm with her hands on her knees. She's engrossed in the projection up until it ends, blinking briefly and then looking up at Nathan's face, "I'm really excited, Master. This is even bigger than the Techno Urbania tournament. --Oh!" A little looking around brings some familiar faces, and the VerVietta raises an arm to wave at Selena, Kiki, Saiga, and the other shinki she recognizes, as well as their masters.
>>> SUMMARY - Vervi <<< - Vervi is here of course.

--

	"Nakamura Shizune! You're already a tournament champion, and now you'll be competing here, too?! Ooh, you must have a very good Shinki on /your/ side." Zanke's flight carries her to Shizune's eye level so she can offer a proper bow before drifting back to stand up on Serori's shoulder. Serori gives the little robot a sidelong, dubious look, and heaves out a low sigh that sounds almost like resignation.
	"Good evening, Shizune. It's good to see you competing again." Some of that icy detachment has either been worn down by Zanke's extroverted energy or Shizune's familiarity and show of respect. "I look forward to meeting you in the arena. Let's hope the action goes in our favor, hm?" Now, Serori doesn't /quite/ smile, because that would be relenting too much of her carefully concocted air, but she /does/ take on a cocky tone. "This one's got a lot of energy. She's annoying, but I think she'll serve me well. She'd better, anyway."
	"You got it, Master!" Zanke gives a thumbs up.

--

	 "So, Selena, is this your first Battle Rondo?" Jinxel asks to the Shinki perched upon her head. The tiny nurse glances down and nods, "Yes it is. Up until now, I have only attended the smaller tournaments. To be honest, up until now, I was not all that interested in the contests."

	 Jinxel tilts her head ever so slightly, causing Selena to shift around atop her mane, "Really? Why were you in that tournament then?"

	 "... I was trying to find a Master that would be impressed by my ability."

	 ".. Oh. And why are you entering this one then?"

	 Selena smiles a bit, "Because all my friends are entering as well, and win or lose, it'll be fun to be there with them, cheering them on, competing against them, and sharing the experience."

	 Jinxel giggles, "I suppose it would be a lot more fun with friends, huh?"

--

"What she said," Saiga shouts down from Tesla's shoulder to agree. "It's twice as fun when you've got friends to enjoy it with."

Tesla mmhmms a little as she adjusts her glasses. "Compatition is a core component to a shinki's wellbeing. Even those that are not necessarily fighters seem to draw from matching skills or abilities in other ways against others."

--

	 A newbie Shinki has arrived! It's... gasp! Allie! She's actually been here more or less the whole time, she's just been quiet and off to the side somewhere. She presently is without her master, who is presently off somewhere with Fuki, and gradually making her way along the shinki paths to wander around the crowd, taking note of all of the other shinki and how well matched they look. Hmm. The Virtual Masters are given especially strong scrutinization, as she herself likely would have been in that program had she not been picked up by Fuki.

	 Finally, she makes her way over to Tesla and Saiga, waving up towards them. "Saiga~! Doctor Tesla~! Hi~!" She says cheerfully. After a few moments, she settles down on the edge of a convenient something-or-other nearby Tesla, probably the back of a chair or a nearby wall.

--

	Time to make the rounds! Alicia grins at Kiki, "Come on, let's go talk to the others." Alicia stands, while Kiki floats up and moves to sit on her shoulder.

	Glancing around, Alicia first notes Nathan, with Vervi, who waves in this direction. So Alicia heads over in that direction and grins at the two, "Hey Nathan, Vervi. Isn't this all very exciting?"

	On Alicia's shoulder, Kiki smiles softly at Vervi, "Hello. Maybe we'll meet each other in a fight this time."

>>> SUMMARY - Alicia T. Harlaown <<< - Alicia and Kiki head over to chat with Nathan and Vervi.

--

	"Well, I wouldn't call myself a champion anymore," Shizune admits. "I only made it to the second round in my bracket last year, and I'm too old for the junior championships these days." She folds her arms behind herself, and replies to Serori with a nod and a smile. "I'm hoping for it as well. I only signed up out of curiosity's sake for the competition, but apparently my name is enough for them to assign me a Monitor Shinki for the tournament." It certainly was a bit surprising, but she's not going to complain. "They're doing some final tuning on her at the moment, I imagine she'll come meet up with me once they're finished."

>>> SUMMARY - Shizune Nakamura <<< - Polite chatter with Serori and Zanke.

--

	Kourin is dressed quite fancy as he enters the area. Suit, tie and... a jelly can bandolier. Hes got two shinki in the tournament, a bright smile upon his face. Allie's already there, he reaches over to give her head a pat as he starts to pull jelly cans off the bandolier and pass them around.

	Fuki makes her way in slowly, the Shinki is in her casuals right now, dressed up in fancy black dress. "Ah, the competition." she starts, "I do wish everyone the best of luck... but a reminder... this isnt some local tournament. This is a real deal... a high stakes tournament. Be ready." she looks around, a sly smile towards Vervi but the words Monitor hit her ears and that smile is all but erased. "I look forward to that one..."
>>> SUMMARY - Fuki <<< - Brief entrance, jelly cans to all Shinki.

--

	It seems someone got here just quick enough to catch the tail end of Shizune's conversation, because seemingly out of nowhere, that someone replies to Zanke in a surprisingly good attempt at a booming voice for such a little person. "Of course she does! Only a world class shinki is fit for a world class master!" A little blur of white and gold drops out of the air from just at the height where people normally don't look up, landing on Shizune's shoulder directly across from the Murmultier type at Serori's. A Strarf model in full armour, save with a remarkably well done alternate paintjob, stepping down feet first, back straight and both her own arms and the arms of her exosuit-style armour folded over her chest, staring imposingly down her nose at the other Shinki.

	"And an undefeatable warrior deserves nothing less than an undefeatable vassal!" The overhead lightning catches the crescent ornament atop the shinki's helmet just so that it sparkles at the same time the competitive gleam catches her eyes. The superheroic effect holds for a few seconds, before suddenly she leans over against Shizune's ear, cupping her tiny hand to her mouth. "Master, who is this?"

>>> SUMMARY - Tora <<< - Tora! The undefeated of the eas- SHIZUNE'S SHINKI!

--

	Kagenashi says nothing when she makes eye contact with Shizune. Of course, if her expression changes at all, her mask hides it, so for all appearances she only returns Shizune's look with that mask's wry smirk.

	Mae, meanwhile, sticks her tongue out at Shizune and puts her hands up beside her ears, flapping them in a playfully mocking manner. If Kagenashi were less mature that may be how she would handle the situation herself.

	Mae's attention shifts over to looking around at the other Confederate shinki that are around. She taps her chin in thought, considering her potential allies/opponents and sizing them up.

	Suddenly, the little fox shinki is perched on Shizune's head, her hands on her hips and a smug grin on her face. "She'd better be pretty tough! If we meet up, I don't want to have /too/ easy of a time beating you up and showing everyone the GLORY OF MIGHTY JAPAN!"

	Mae throws back her head and laughs heartily at that before Kagenashi calmly corrects her from afar. "Azuma."

	"-GLORY OF MIGHTY AZUMA," Mae repeats, going back to that haughty laugh immediately after.
>>> SUMMARY - Kagenashi <<< - Mae jumps onto Shizune's head and boasts.

--

	"Ahh--" Nathan says, seeming to snap out of his fascination. "You are both right, it is quite a bit of excitement." Not judging by that monotone, it's not! But he doesn't seem to be lying. "It is rather intense, from what I have seen. I am fascinated to see how this goes. Good luck to you and your own, Alicia." He gives a quick, respectful nod to her.

>>> SUMMARY - Nathan Hall <<< - Quick RE: VERVI and RE: ALICIA

--

	"A Monitor? Impressive." Serori gives Zanke another look. Zanke doesn't seem to notice how intensely she's being judged, in that moment. "Like Vervi, hmm? It sounds like luck is on your side already. Well, we'll see what happens. If we end up missing one another in this tournament, too, we can always make up for it outside -- aah, look who's here. And what is your name, little Monitor?"
	Zanke's too friendly to be easily cowed by Tora's display; in fact, all that posing and sparkling warrants a response of enthusiastic applause. "Wow! You're really cool! My name's Zanke!" Politely, she waits for Serori's inquiry to be answered rather than reiterate the question. Just who /is/ this never-before-seen Shinki?
	"I am Serori," the saiyan provides in her low, cool voice. "Zanke's temporary Master."

--

Tesla Armadia turns her head when she hears her name, Saiga leaning over to see past it. "Hi Allie! Thought you'd be with Fuki and your Master." Saiga waves all the same though.

Tesla chuckles a little as she holds out a hand to Allie. "Need a safe place to sit until its your turn to go out?" Though the other conversation also catchs her attention. It's kind of hard not to with those fairly big ears she has. "Well now, it would seem the General is taking part in things this time as well."
<OOC> Vervi raises hands, hold poses please.
>>> SUMMARY - Tesla Armadia <<< - Offering Allie a safer place to sit, taking note of Serori getting a temp fighter.

>><<

	"LADIES, GENTLEMAN, AND SHINKI OF ALL MAKES. WELCOME TO THE 10th ANNUAL BUSOU SHINKI BATTLE RONDO." The loudspeakers speak clearly over the rumbling clowd and the throngs start to quiet down. In the arena center, the counter reaches 10 seconds and turns red, "NOW INTRODUCING THIS YEAR'S HOST, MASTER OF 3 TIME BATTLE RONDO CHAMPION, VICTORIA. PLEASE GIVE A WARM WELCOME TO: REN JINDOU." When the counter reaches 0, the logo explodes into a stage. Upon it, is a man in his mid-20s, standing before a podium with an enormous bust-up recreation of himself looming behind him, duplicated to face all directions. It's plain in the blown up version that there's a Strarf standing on his shoulder with her arms folded.

	"Ladies, Gentlemen, and shinki. It gives me great pride to have been invited here to introduce this year's Busou Shinki Battle Rondo. Though I must also disappoint fans of my wonderful Victoria, due to business obligations I cannot have her compete this year." The statement gets a rumbling of 'aww' and other noises of disappointment from various people in the crowd.

	"However," Victoria speaks up and the hologram zooms in on her, "We look forward to seeing the strongest, proudest shinki fighting with all their hearts." The golden-eyed Strarf inclines her head. With the monotone way she speaks, it may be taken as menacing, "I have great expectations for all of our contestants."

	The hologram zooms out to Jindou again and he spreads his hands, "Now it is time to introduce our fighters. This will be the first Battle Rondo with competitors from throughout the Multiverse. So please be open-minded and welcome our guests and future champions."

	In the competitor waiting room, a dark-skinned bouncer by the door leading out to the arena mutters an affirmative into his radio, then claps his huge hands twice, "Alright, folks. Please exit as your names are called. Go ahead and put on a little show on your way to the stage, too. The crowd loves a little personality, feel free to express that. Work 'em a bit."

>><<

	The display of bravado on Tora's part seems to cause Shizune some degree of quiet amusement. "She's a respected general of the Confederacy, Tora. And a fighter, like I am, though she's by far my superior in that regar-"

	Kagenashi's Shinki is on her head. Shizune looks upward, and one eyebrow arches faintly. "Good luck to you in the tournament, then," she replies diplomatically. "I look forward to a good fight." She may have a problem with Kagenashi, but the little fox shinki has done nothing to earn her ire, at least. So there's no reason to be cold.

	But further conversation is brought to a halt when the ceremonies officially begin. She gives the bouncer a nod, folds her arms behind herself, and murmurs, "Tora, be ready." From there, she has nothing but silence, waiting calmly until-

         "TORA, THE STRARF LAVINA, AND HER MASTER, SHIZUNE NAKAMURA!"

	In the blink of an eye, Shizune is striding calmly out, offering the crowd warm smiles and polite waves - with her right arm, of course, so as not to disturb the shinki on her left. When she finally reaches the stage, she turns towards the crowd and bows her head respectfully, before folding hands behind herself and standing calmly next to Jindou.

>>> SUMMARY - Shizune Nakamura <<< - Martial artist, minor celebrity, either way very used to crowds! Also responses to Tora and Mae before heading out.

--

	Tora glances out of the corner of her eye with a surreptitiously critical look towards the saiyan and her shinki as the two of them take turns explaining; one that is replaced with a confident smirk as she stand back up straight, clearly enjoying Zanke's reaction. She takes on a cool, knowing tone, like an expert explaining something in layman's terms, placing her hands on her hips. "That's right! Only those with an insatiable heart for battle can lay hands on a monitor model! It would be my honour to demonstrate the strength of a shinki belonging to a champion!" Nathan being within earshot is merely an ironic coincidence. After all, how would she know /that/ weedy guy owns a monitor too? Tora whirls around to point her finger towards Mae, the bulkier robotic arm following suit to gesture with much more presence. "I accept your challenge. I must warn you however, no-one knows the might of Japan so much as I!" She can probably be excused for the fact her armour has obviously been designed with a samurai warrior motif in mind, clearly influenced by the granduer of that particular era that Kagenashi's world is similar to.

	The sound of the loudspeaker catches her attention instead. First out! Well, Front Line had arranged for something like that in model advertising, but still! As Shizune takes to the arena floor proper, Tora attempts to emulate her, taking cues from an actual tournament champion on how one should act. That quiet confidence! That understated badassery! Of course! It's perfect! The white shinki flashes as she engages her slipway, summoning a daisho of matched swords to her side, and a much, much larger one into her armour's hands, adopting a classical samurai pose as her thrusters quietly rev to illuminate her, standing stoic and reserved upon Shizune's shoulder and bowing alongside her; only peeking just a little with one eye half open to see the audience.


--

	 "SERAFINA, the Olbern MMS Tyep Fencer - Pearl, and her Master, Prince Fassad of Arcadia!"

	 There is a /blinding/ burst of light from the way into the Arena, likely to cause most people to have to turn away from it. Leaping through it, onto the stand, is Fassad. He's using his magic for as much minor beauty improvements as possible. His teeth and hair are shinier than usual. He makes a dramatic flourish with his sword, and points it towards the sky. It errupts with another brilliant light. This is followed by him lifting his shield, the Mirror Shield, towards the sky. It, too, shines.

	 Serafina is trying to make similar gestures, but she isn't as skilled at this as Fassad. But, she does climb down his clothes, towards a pocket, to pull something out to hand to him.

	 A single rose. He dramatically throws it towards the audience, towards a particularly cute girl in her late teens or early adulthood. He winks at her, and then at other women in the audience.

	 "I am the hero of Light, Fassad of Arcadia! My Shinki... Her full name shall be Lady Serafina Christina Spryte Ari-Arcadia, The Third!"

	 And with that, he makes yet /another/ blade flourish. Serafina copies again.


--

	 "Well, here's hoping we all have a great time then," Jinxel says quietly, before the official announces that they're starting, "Oh dear... I think I have butterflies in my stomache."

	 Selena looks down quizzically at her master, "But you're not the one who's actually competing in the tournament, I am."

	 "I-I know, but I don't do well when I'm put in the spotlight..."

	 From outside, the announce goes, "SELENA, the Brightfeather MMS Type Nurse, and her master, JINXEL MARIE FORTUNE!"

	 Jinx swallows hard and takes a deep breath, before stepping out, "Here goes..."

	 With a bit of stuffness born from anxiety, Jinx marches out up onto the stage, while the much more composed Selena stands up upon her master's head with one hand holding onto an ear for support and the other waving to the ground. When they finally reach the stag, Jinxel gets into place and looks around with a gulp, then bashfully adds a little wave of her own.

	 Ohgodsomanypeople.

--

	"HA! I don't need luck! Luck is for people who don't have VICTORY on their si-wah!" When Shizune nods, Mae nearly falls off the girl's head and has to flail her arms wildly to stay upright. Kagenashi finally lifts her head as the bouncer gestures for them, then pushes off the wall and lets her arms fall to her sides. "Come, Mae. We have an entrance to make."

	"Oh, right! Coming, master!" The fox shinki flies over to settle on Kagenashi's head again as the pair walks out into the arena.

	"MAE, THE RENGE AND HER MASTER, KAGENASHI!"

	( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEfwRPKckl4 )

	Once they step out into the open, a flash of light consumes Mae as she acquires her armor. She hovers over the nogitsune's head, and as Kagenashi's arms lift, Mae mimics the masked woman's movements. Kagenashi strides ahead and draws the sword from her right arm's sheath, and at the same time Mae draws a sword from her Slipway as if she also had a sheath on her right arm. Then comes the sword from her right arm, a high-frequency blade that crackles with energy. Mae doesn't have such an advanced weapon, but she still brings out another sword of her own.

	Once they reach the stage, the two spin around with a billowing flourish of fabric on Kagenashi's side. They twirl their swords in unison, then cross them over their chests and enter a low bow at the waist toward the audience. A moment later, they both straighten and sheath (or dismiss to the Slipway) their swords, one after the other, and finally Mae settles on Kagenashi's head as the nogitsune steps onto the stage and takes her place.

	Right next to Shizune, conveniently.


--

	"ZANKE, THE MURMELTIER SHINKI, AND HER MASTER, SERORI!"
	It's Zanke's time to shine.
	Serori prowls toward the stage whenever she's been called. Keeping her entrance simple gives Zanke the opportunity to show off and enjoy the spotlight she was made to experience. While Serori is the picture of predatory purpose and unflappable chill, Zanke is twirling aerials and posing, her mid-air posturing and cannon-aiming and fist-punching meant to be both intimidating /and/ fiercely adorable. Oddly, the two seem to complement one another. Serori's intensity in the heat of the moment is matched by Zanke's enthusiasm. Serori might appear aloof, but her chilly arrogance only serves to create the impression that she's very, very confident her Shinki's posing isn't just for show.
	Finally, she and Zanke come together inside the ring, with Zanke finally matching Serori expression for expression, Shinki and Master ready for the battles to come.

--

	... It begins... While other Shinki and their masters are being called out to the arena, Alicia whispers quietly to the Kyknos on her shoulder, Kiki nodding along as she listens. After half a minute of this, Kiki nods once more and says, "Got it!"

	Meanwhile, Alicia glances down at the gem on her bracelet, "Got it, Melody?" Sweet Melody chimes in acknowledgement. Alright! Now they just need to wait for their turn...

	"KIKI, THE KYKNOS, AND HER MASTER, ALICIA TESTAROSSA HARLAOWN!"

	That's their cue! Alicia cups her hands and Kiki floats down into them. Alicia then begins walking out into the arena.

	Once they enter the arena proper, Alicia takes a moment to let her eyes adjust. She then grins, glancing around at the gathered spectators. It's only for a moment though, and then Alicia throws her hands up into the air, like releasing a bird. Kiki's wings spread out and she flies up into the air. Streams of silver magic follower her as she gracefully dances through the air, rolling and twirling as the magic lights dart through the air around her. Finally she swoops down and stops just above Alicia's head, wings spread wide. The lights follow behind her, before arcing up at the last moment and colliding in small flash of magic sparkles!

	The two make their way up to the stage, Kiki continuing to fly over Alicia's head until they finally reach it, where she floats down to sit on the Mage's shoulder again.

>>> SUMMARY - Alicia T. Harlaown <<< - Alicia and Kiki enter, showing off a small display of graceful aerobatics and magic lights!

--

	 Allie smiles towards Tesla, giving a bit of a shrug. "He's with Fuki right now~! A--oh! Here he is! Master~!" She calls out cheerfully towards Kourin... and then she gets headpetted, a little purr actually coming from the MMS Type Lynx. She reaches to take one of the offered jellycans. "I'll be okay~. I went for a long time without a Master, so I'm used to dodging people." Allie nods quickly, flashing a grin towards Saiga. That is actually part of why she arrived before Kourin and Fuki, really. Because she's a pretty independant little thing. Then, Allie's name is called out~!

	 "ALLIE THE ARTILLE, FUKI THE FUBUKI, AND THEIR MASTER, KOURIN!"

	 And then... smoke consumes the path to the stage! Fssshhhhh~! Some vague shapes can be seen in the smoke, flashing around briefly -- maybe a pink leg or two visible here and there... until suddenly~! Both Fuki and Allie come flying out of the smoke, each one performing a rather agile tumble, turning towards the crowd as they both give a graceful little bow... though Fuki's is a bit moreso than Allie.

	 Both are in their armor, and Allie's visor pops down. "Our targets are locked~. Aiming for victory!" Allie says somewhat cheesily towards the crowd. Kourin, meanwhile... walks out, waving and offering polite bows.

>>> SUMMARY - Allie <<< - Allie and Fuki come out in a smokescreen~.

--

Tesla Armadia hmms, looking up. "I guess conversation will have to wait, it's time for the introductions." Though she frowns a little when Fassad has to go and make an overextravagant show of the matter. "Tch. Royalty. Ready, Saiga." "Mmhmm!" There's a brief flash of light as Saiga summons her full rig out of Slipway and stands up fully on Tesla's shoulder. Tesla just adjusts her glasses a final time, and walks out into the arena.

"SAIGA, THE GRAPPRAP BUILDER TYPE, AND HER MASTER, DR. TESLA ARMADIA!"

Inwardly Tesla sighs in relief as they remembered to use her title instead of her rank since this isn't a matter of the multiversal war. But she maintains her usual composure as she walks out of the waiting room and into the area, only the faint ruffle of her labcoat around her legs as she strides up being made. Once she's in her spot then she unfolds her hands and holds them to her shoulder for Saiga to step onto, and then hold them up over her head.

Saiga stands up as the cameras zoom in on her, pneumatics in her exo-frame's legs hissing as she rises, and clasps both hands over her head and shakes them in the manner a lot of professional atheletes use.

Which also makes her larger exo-arms rise up and clang together in a similar manner.

>>> SUMMARY - Tesla Armadia <<< - Keeping it simple and effective like always

--

	"JEN, THE ESTORIL, AND HER MASTER, JAKE RIVERS!"

	Next to come out is a young man in a leather jacket. A little beat up around the edges, he looks like a man who has devoted his life to motercycles and yet, appears to be the good-natured, heart-of-gold sort. On his shoulder, the pink-armored Jen is already in her armor, twirling a large rifle by the trigger guard.

	She stops suddenly and Jake strikes a pose with his fingers shaped like a gun. In the same instant, Jen ceases twirling and thrusts her gun in the opposite direction. Jake pulls his hand back and blows imaginary smoke off the 'barrel', then swaggers up to the stage.

--

	"SOKKA, THE ASUKA, AND HER MASTER, SETO HAYAMA!"

	( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mkp8ZdQ9SqI )

	The music that plays is soon joined by the roar of an aircraft engine. The shinki sails out first and ascends in a spiral, her arms held out. Below, her master likewise emerges. A teenaged Japanese boy wearing a pilot's scarf over his ordinary black school uniform. He weaves down the walkway to the stage, his hands held out like wings, and is soon joined by his shinki. By the time they reach the stage, she lands on his shoulder, her engine cutting off.

--

	"GWEN, THE XIPHOS, AND HER MASTER, WILMA KNIGHT!"

	The next to enter the arena is a woman in a skirtsuit and impeccable posture, clearly a woman who works in big business. A part of a huge corporation. She approaches the stage at a stiff walk. On her shoulder, fully armored, is Gwen. Her sword is drawn, the tip resting between her feet on her Master's shoulderpad, her hands folded on the pommel, her eyes closed in a stoic, unflappably dignified fashion.

--

	"MARUKO, THE MAOCHAO, AND HER MASTER, FUKO DERUKA!"

( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH2-TGUlwu4 )

	The shinki flies out first, trailing a rainbow ribbon, tracing loops with her impossibly long tail. Looking back, Maruko makes a taunting gesture and her master, a girl no older than ten and wearing a safari costume dashes out. She wields a butterfly net, and the pair make a show of her attempts to capture the maochao all the way to the stage. MERCIFULLY the music stops when she takes her position in the lineup.

--

	Nathan is not very good at being dramatic. But he is fine for public presence confidence, at the very least...

	"VERVI, THE VERVIETTA, AND HER MASTER, NATHAN HALL!"

	Nathan walks out on the path to the main stage, with no displays of power or theatrical shows. Everyone else has intimidated him way too much for any of that! The smoke, the ostentateous musical displays, all that aeronautical stuff! Nathan can't compete with any of it.

	So! Instead of that sort of thing, he plays to his strengths: Stoicism. Striding on the path to the stage, one arm available for Vervi to stand on but prompting her however she might need in any display she might choose for herself, and in blatant spite of all the intimidation he's feeling after all those other shows of strength and speed and plain old silly enthusiasm, he simply puts on the best show of confidence and unassuming unreaction that he can.

	He's swapped out his normal glasses for those other glasses he owns, the ones that shine with intense, bright white glare at the slightest light. They're hiding his eyes, hopefully to proper effect. Dignified, at least!

	Yeah, that's not really remarkable in any capacity. Sort of a letdown! Maybe Vervi will spice it up, she's got the moves to show off, at least! If she's so inclined, anyway. When he gets to the stage, it's a pretty simple bow that he gives, traditional respect more than acknowledgement of grandeur.

>>> SUMMARY - Nathan Hall <<< - Nathan sticks to his strengths: Stoicism and not showing how intimidated he actually is by the assorted enthusiastic/intimidating/agile displays everyone else has gone through. Gendo-brand glasses in effect, might as well.

--

	Accompanying Nathan, Vervi waves from his shoulder at the enormous crowd. With a flash from the Slipway, her armor materializes and she lifts off to circle around his head a few times, rolling slowly in the process. The roll pauses, then completes swiftly in a motion that ejects her Options. She then swings inward to hover above her Master's head, her Options surrounding her, and pushes her arms out. The Options return to her, and she lowers down to his shoulder again without dismissing her armor.
>>> SUMMARY - Vervi <<< - Vervi shows off a little bit, but isn't quite sure if she's any good at it.

--

	"And LIZBET, THE LIRBIETE, AND HER MASTER, KYOUSUKE!"

	Jindou holds out his arm one last time, "Unfortunately, due to business obligations, Lizbet and her master are unable to be here with us tonight. But they both assure me they /are/ competing in the Battle Rondo competition."

	On his shoulder, Victoria's glare hardens slightly. As if judging the other shinki intensely. She doesn't say anything, however. Jindou continues.

	"Please give our fighters a warm welcome while I announce the first round brackets!" Behind him, photos of each shinki appear as they're named, with a stylized 'VS' between those who are meant to fight each other.

	"A Brightfeather who placed third in the First Multiversal Tournament will test the mettle of a fresh-faced newcomer. SERENA versus TORA!"

	"The Grapprap in service to the Confederate chief of research and development shall face the guns of an artillery master. SAIGA versus ALLIE!"

	"The Estoril from America's tournament circuit shall test the might of a singing sensation. JEN versus METTA!"

	"An air combat master shall take on the might of a champion of ground combat. SOKKA versus ZANKE!"

	"The Custom type here to test her strength against the mass production models will see whose sword is stronger. KIKI versus SERAFINA!"

	"The Confederate ninja assassin puts her blades against the European Union's dueling master. FUKI versus GWEN!"

	"The Champion of the Multiversal Tournament faces the Runner Up in a no-holds-barred grudge rematch. VERVI versus LIZBET!"

	"The child star of the Asian battle circuit puts claws where her meowth is in the battle to see which animal shinki is the greatest. MARUKO versus MAE!"

--

	So they'll be facing the nurse type in their first round. Shizune files that away mentally, and then turns her head to look at Jinx; the visibly nervous pony gets a warm smile, and a polite bow, though while they're on stage in front of everyone, she doesn't speak. Mostly so as to not distract the crowd from Jindou's announcements.

>>> SUMMARY - Shizune Nakamura <<< - You can relax, Jinx! I don't bite.

--

Tesla Armadia merely tips her head forward a bit to adjust her glasses as the pairings are called off. "I guess we will get to see the new recruit's strength first hand sooner than expected." Saiga nods, thumping her larger mechanical grapplers together in anticipation.

	Both Zanke and Serori regard Sokka and her Master. Serori offers Seto a slight nod, while Zanke gives her direct opponent a more excited waved greeting. "Land versus air, hm? Should be interesting to see."

--

	Alicia watches the matchings appear, one after the other. When it finally comes time for hers and Kiki's matchup, Alicia holds her breath...

	From Alicia's shoulder, Kiki hmmms quietly, "An Olbern... A strong melee type." She smiles, "This will be interesting."

	Alicia nods in agreement, "We'll have to strategise!" Meanwhile, she gives a thumbs-up in Fassad and Serafina's direction, accompanied with a grin.

>>> SUMMARY - Alicia T. Harlaown <<< - It's on!

--

	 Jinxel gulps a bit when the brackets are announced then glances over in Shizune's direction... specifically at the Shinki she owns, Tora. Waaaaah! So many swords! And guns! And arms! Oh dear!

	 This isn't going to be easy, is it?

--

	Tora's head turns with almost eerie synchronization with Shizune's, looking not to the pony, but instead to her Shinki, sizing up the competition already. The metallic, claw-tipped fingers of her armour clink quietly as she drums them on the hilt of her sword, analyzing her opponent while she has the chance before the match. Just from looking at her, Serena can tell this Strarf is serious. It's like her eyes are going right into all the little crevices and joints in her model. After a few seconds contemplation, Tora offers her future opponent a polite smile; not smug or condescending, but rather a kind of silent "good luck~".

	"She looks experienced enough, but there's no need to worry master." Tora hops off Shizune's shoulder as she bows, hovering at just the right height to set down again after. "I /will/ have another tournament championship plaque on your wall. I guarantee it!"
>>> SUMMARY - Tora <<< - Well it's no fun if it's easy right?

--

	Kagenashi simply stands stoically in place as the pairings are listed. As she folds her hands in front of her, her expression is as unreadable as ever, but Mae is significantly more excited. The fox shinki pumps her fist into the air with a little hop before turning to Maruko and her master, offering a smug grin of confidence. "I hope you're ready, little cat! The nine tails of VICTORY don't give in easily! Prepare to kneel before my tofu-fueled power!"

	"I was not aware they made tofu-flavored jelly cans," Kagenashi calmly remarks.

	"Of course they do! They're literally the best thing ever, I swear," Mae replies excitedly, completely ruining her boastful air with food fangirling.

--

	 Saiga is given a grin, one of Allie's guns aiming and pulling back as if doing 'recoil', as if she was shooting at Saiga. "Looking forward to it, Saiga! This should be a fun fight, win or lose... right?" Allie says cheerfully towards Saiga. Meanwhile, she quietly makes a mental note to bring her pronged sword with her to that fight...

--

	 Fassad smiles, looking towards Alicia and Kiki. He gives a smile towards her. Though he does not return the thumbs up. Instead, he gives a regal bow.

	 "This shall be a good match, I am sure."

	 Serafina tugs on Fassad's collar, "Hey, listen! I'm already getting some ideas on how to fight her! This should be fun!"

>>> SUMMARY - Fassad <<< - Bowing to Alicia, Serafina's voice setting is apparently set to 'Navi'

--

Saiga responds by making a throwing motion at Allie. And then yelps as she loses her balance from swinging her big arms around on such an awkward perch. Fortunately Tesla reachs up to stablize her before she actually falls off her shoulder.

--

	 Luckily for Saiga, Allie is not the type to laugh or look down on Saiga for that. Instead, Saiga gets a look of brief concern as she starts to lose balance -- though when Tesla steadies her, she gives a soft sigh of relief~! Seems she's not in the 'laugh at your enemies' personality type! "See you soon!" Calls out Allie, as she makes her way off to prepare. As she leaves, she looks carefully at Serena and Tora. She was not liking the thought of fighting a monitor in round two if she wins against Saiga. Either way, her first round should be interesting!