It was about three years since the 7th tournament. After the tournament there was brief panic among Gunpla Builders with the news of Plavsky particles disappearing but it was remedied thanks to Professor Nils Nielson and Yajima Trading. Tournaments since then have been hosted by Yajima Trading after PPSE was bought over. As each tournament progresses, some of the veterans disappear to make way for younger and better fighters. This, the 10th tournament is no exception.

From his apartment room in Istanbul, Kartal kept an eye on the qualifiers around the world. He read through the names that qualified in some of the countries. “While there are still veterans, I see new names now.” He said to himself as he checked. Cziommer of Germany was gone from the roster as seen in a footage of his red and blue coloured Shamblo sliced to pieces by what looked a Gundam Sandrock Kai in Pan-Arab colours with arms and legs from Unicorn Gundam Destroy Mode (green frame version) with Gundam X’s backpack. The Thai champion Luang Dallara managed to qualify, defeating a challenger’s Byarlant.

The Turkish champion looked at the countries left for the qualifiers with the American at its final stage. He will have a look on the results later while he tries to find the results from Asia as he rarely paid attention to that region.

Within the docks of the Innovater ship, Tieria's Gundam the Seravee was at the full mercy of the Innovators now. Despite his best efforts he was about to meet his untimely fate against this perverted interpretation of Aeolia Schenberg's plan. "How can this happen? The others are too busy against the enemy and I'm forced into this final duel with Ribbons himself..." He cursed under his breath.
His circumstances were emphasized further when he heard the said villain contact him, "You should have joined us Tieria Erde. You should have joined me..." He briefly sounded wistful of the idea but regained his venom when he cursed, "But as it has been seen you only choose to fight for the weak. If you will not join us in realizing Aeolia's Plan... Then you will die with them!" Before the Reborns was able to deliver the final blow an explosion occurred enveloping the Garazzo. Ribbons was brought to alert when he asked, "What? Regene, what was that?"
Regene was quickly assuming an analysis with GRM’s computer when he reported, "It's something we haven't foreseen! It's another Gundam!" As soon as Regene gave his report the foreign Gundam skid its way into the hangar bay while the "Outer Senshi" theme played in the background.
The pilot of the Gundam announced to her opponents, "Miki O. Shirakawa! Sending TC to assist fellow Meisters!" The TC took action when it continued to fire its beam rifle at the GRM. Even when it entered Trans-Am mode the shots only managed to hit the GRM at is vital areas leaving only the left arm and left leg intact.
Regene continued to move back when he exclaimed in audible fear, "How is this possible?! She's facing us with something beyond even that of our technology!" As if a realization overcame him at the last second he said, "This could only be..."
"The power of star crossed love!" Miki answered as the Gundam cast aside its beam rifle and engaged with all four of its beam sabers. The TC lunged forward with its beam sabers and sliced across in an x pattern across the remains of the mobile suit.
Regene’s cockpit was spared long enough for him to scream his last breath, "AAAHHH!!!"
Ribbons saw the death of his ally and prepared himself, "No! Aeolia’s Plan must be brought forward! I will not lose to a mere human!"
The Reborns collided with the TC but found itself quickly being disassembled when the four beam sabers sliced away at its limbs and front cannons. Miki contacted Ribbons when she told him, "I am sorry you have denied your chance at happiness Ribbons Almark. But when anyone of any species chooses ambition of power over the natural bonds of love, they will never succeed!"
What remained of the Reborns made a final dash back when it grabbed hold of its beam saber. Ribbons pushed himself when he prepared for the next strike, "This is... fate! I can still fight!"
The TC prepared its four beam sabers to sweep down when Miki answered, "Fight all you can. You cannot overcome my one true desire!" As soon as the Reborns came into range the TC made its sweep and saw the elimination of its opponent.
Ribbons had enough time to scream, "NOOO!!!" The Reborns exploded before the TC and Ribbons Almark’s hopes to advance Aeolia’s Plan were undone.
"The power of star crossed love..." Tieria watched in sheer awe from his cockpit.
The TC stood close to the front of the Seravee when Miki stepped out and removed her helmet asking, "Tieria Erde... Have I proven myself to you?"
Tieria stepped out and saw the young woman before him when he dreamily answered after removing his helmet, "Yes... Miki O. Shirakawa..."
The two were in a gaze much like that of Shiro and Aina’s first meeting before Miki introduced poetically, “My Gundam… I call it the TC. And I name it this because it is Tieria’s Chariot. I have awaited this chance to one day escort you to my heart Tieria Erde…”
Tieria’s face flushed when he heard the promise and announced as he floated towards her, “I… I have always wanted a day like this to happen…”
Miki began to float towards him as well when she gazed into his eyes. She could tell after all this time she would finally be within the embrace of the man she dreamed of. She floated through the zero gravity prepared for his kiss, "Tieria..."
"Miki..."
"There's no way this is going to work." Right before she was within grasp she heard a voice from outside observe this.
Miki turned around as though she were facing a director on a set, "Oh what? Okay maybe just an RX-78GP01-Fb wouldn't be enough to destroy the GRM and Garazzo but a super climatic duel with my Gundam against the Reborns has to be enough to give me some credibility!"
"You need to get better at this..."
Miki began to complain harder, "What?! So what if I took a few creative liberties? This is my dream and I should be able to do what I want! If I wasn't al..." She began to choke on the sudden realization of the obvious problem in the room. There was no air in space.

Fortunately for her she wasn't in space after all. Hedy woke up and found her dream Gunpla alongside her homework after realizing she fell asleep at her keyboard again. Thankfully the latest commission for her deviantart account had been finished and uploaded. Her real concern at the moment was her dad in the room. "I had to get you up somehow kiddo. It's just a good thing you remembered to set your alarm."
Hedy rubbed her neck as she looked up answering, "Oh yeah... Good on me for sure. I'm never going to be late for school again now that I have a schedule we agreed to."
Her dad lifted the clock in question when he showed it was 8:43 A.M. when he told her, "And I believe we were hoping to see it start working today."
Hedy realized this and answered the only way any good student would, "AH!!!" The young lady quickly got her socks on and began to braid her hair.
“Be glad it’s a Late Start Wednesday. You still might be able to make it.” Her dad observed.
Hedy was very desperate to leave when she gathered her things and promised, “You’re right! I’m sorry! I’m heading in now!”
“Don’t forget, Continuum marathon tonight.”
“Won’t be late! Bye dad!” She threw herself out the door of her bedroom and made a jump down to the first floor where her mom was cooking scrambled eggs and bacon. Hedy rushed into the kitchen and wolfed down a handful of both before she parted with the food still in her mouth, "Mbmye Mmom."
Before her mom had a chance to ask anything she saw Hedy rushing out the front door and could only offer, "Uh... Have a nice day sweetie?"
Hedy had swallowed her food by now when she began to rush down the streets of Antioch from her hose when she kept cursing herself, "Oh god I can't believe I did this again. I am so dead if I don't get to the bus on time!" As soon as she saw her phone hit the 8:45 mark she saw the bus driving away from her location when she got there. "Ah! No!" She picked up her legs into full gear when she tried to catch up with the bus. The bus began to pick up speed when Hedy prepared for a final jump, "It's worth it!" She was fortunate not to land on the cement but instead managed to just barely grab hold of the emergency back door.
It was a 15 minute drive before Hedy was in front of Antioch High and began to rush ahead of the other students. She made her way through the halls before she found her first class period when she pressed on, "I'm almost in! I can't let it be in vain now!" With a final thrust Hedy jumped into the classroom and square into the seat of a nearby desk. The morning announcements were just getting started when she breathed to herself, "Whew... Another dramatic entrance." She checked the height of the boy in front of her as he sat down and found he was thankfully a few inches taller than her. She used this to her advantage and propped her textbook up in front. She fell back to sleep right in that moment.

The rest of the day had been going by at an uneventful pace by the time Hedy got to Lunch period. She saw several students on the sidewalk as they chatted and ate their lunch. Unfortunately all Hedy could do was pat her stomach from the growling when she asked herself, "Why did I have to decide to skip lunch again?" She took out her gunplay case when she sighed remembering, "Yeah, it's for you isn't it little guy? We'll just have to hope that you've got what it takes to go far."
"Hey Brian! What the hell is this crap?" Hedy turned around and saw a boy her age holding what was probably supposed to be a Gunpla but she didn’t remember the Trad 11 from Xabungle being announced as a model.
Continuing the theme another boy pointed out holding a Zambot 3, "These things don’t even register into the Battle System!”
“I don’t think some of these are even from Gundam at all.” An unfortunate girl agreed when she held up an ATH-Q58 Berserga DT model.
Another one of the group held up an actual gunpla when he pointed out, “He gave me a G-Savior though.”
The boy with the Zambot 3 reminded, “Of course he did idiot. That's one of the worst gunplas anyone can use!”
Brian only laughed at the squabble when he answered, “Just look at you losers. Hey all I did was offer a trade for one of a kind gunplas and you agreed to it.”
The girl with the Berserga pointed out, “We said for gunplas though!”
Brian shook his head when he corrected, “And I did say one of a kind didn’t I? So there you go. What can you do about our deal now?”
The boy with the Zambot 3 commanded, “Give us back our old gunplas Brian. I don’t want this thing taking up my shelf space.”
Brian became even smugger when he answered, “You know I would but there’s a problem. I already got a chance to sell them at the nearest gunplay store! Hahaha!” It was a short burst before he continued, “Don’t worry that money is going to some good use when I go back tonight. My Zssa was strong enough as it is. Now it’s going to have an easy time blowing up everybody once I make a convincing fuse with the 00 Qan[T]. I think I might even just buy that 1/100 Big Zam gunpla and then I can literally crush everybody at the Gunpla tournament this year! Hahaha!”

Little else stood out from Hedy’s observation when she heard that Brian had money on him. Lunch was probably not going to be skipped after all. At least if she could find a way to prepare herself for another battle. "What's a good quote to motivate me for this?" She wondered to herself.
"When one realizes the "emptiness" in one's belly, true strength appears!" The apparition above her head faded when Hedy found herself ready for another gunpla battle.
Hedy bowed when she thanked, "Thank you Gen Fudou for your encouragement!" She rushed up behind Brian when she challenged, "Hey Brian! If you're that confident about your Gunpla I'd like to see it in action. Let's make a duel on a bet huh?"
Brian and the small crowd of students turned to the challenge while Brian asked, "Oh sure. You got your terms?"
"Yes. If I win I get all of the money you got for those gunplas you sold."
Brian crossed his arms when he asked, "Pretty high request. Got something of equal value? Stakes can't be that high when there's too little to compete for."
Before Brian could laugh at the idea he saw Hedy lift up a doujinshi with a provocative cover of Setsuna F. Seiei holding Marina Ismail in a nightgown when she displayed, "Import Doujinshi of Mitarashi Kousei's The Sky of Marina autographed by the author himself. Finding him was worth all of the calluses. One of the top ten in my collection."
While the other students were staring and wondering if such material was supposed to be allowed on school grounds Brian was using this feeling to enthusiastically answer, "Alright you're on!"

The two gunpla battlers faced one another in the public school battle system before the procedures took place. The winnings were placed within a pot as the crowd outside waited for the outcome from the Battle System in the observed room. The automatic voice commanded, ‘Please set your GP Base.’
At the same time Hedy and Brian placed their bases and their battle information displayed above a public screen with their profiles. The first one read, ‘Hedy McVey. 7 wins. 2 losses.’
The other read, ‘Brian Scott. 11 wins. 3 losses.’
One of the scammed battlers observed the odds and experience when she asked, “You think she’s got a chance?”
The boy dealt the G-Saviour answered, “Whether or not she does, this is going to be a deciding battle for both of them.” He took out a packet of paper when he elaborated, “The School Rules dictate that for students to qualify for the Annual Gunpla Tournament field trip they must maintain a 75% win ratio with a minimum of 10 battles and a maximum of 15.” He gulped when he added, “I should probably also add that final entry submissions are due by the end of this lunch period.”
One of the nearby observers realized what was at stake when he said, “So whoever wins this literally is going to determine who’s going and who isn’t!”

The Battle System gave its first warning before the battle, ‘Beginning Plavsky particle dispersal.’
Within the battle room an aura of light made its way around the battlers when they got to see their new environment. The crumbling island of Orb was selected while the forces of ZAFT engaged in a programmed stalemate battle against the Earth Alliance. Both of their Gunplas were dropped into the hangar background when the battle system gave its final procedure, ‘Battle Start.’
Brian activated his Zssa and when he grabbed the two nearby spheres of light warning, "Time for you to see why I made it this far!" The Zssa launched its way onto the battlefield after he announced, "Brian Scott. Show your true power Zssa!" The yellow mobile suit landed firm on the cement streets as debris flew out of its way from the hangar portal.
Hedy from across the table prepared for her launch when she warned, "I won't go down that easily. I've got my doujinshi to protect!" The TC appeared before its opponent when she proclaimed, "Hedy McVey. Showing the power of the TC!" At this announcement the TC appeared with equal landing force.
Right in this moment the two Gundams were face to face while the city debris flew in various directions. The Zssa made its first move when Brian warned, "Time for you to see what I'm made of. A Gundam built for close range combat has easy weaknesses to exploit. Launch all missile launchers!"
The Zssa fired the missiles from its legs and arms. The explosions were made on impact but the TC was flying out of the smoke and towards its target when Hedy warned, "Use the long range all you want. It just leaves me with an opening!" The TC prepared two of its beam sabers when it came in close and Hedy had an assured face that she was about to win. Reality struck her when the two strikes at the Zssa's sides were blocked when it prepared its own beam sabers.
Hedy was in the midst of shock when Brian asked, "Not that easy is it?"
"Yeah. I think it is." The TC prepared to unleash its other two arms with beam sabers but the Zssa made a flying motion back at this warning.
"Don't even try to take me out this easy." The Zssa wasn't close enough to make the hit but did manage to slice the lower right arm of its opponent.
Hedy saw the damage report on her screen when she cursed, "Oh damn it not this again!" She managed to maintain the balance of the TC when she continued, "I wish Tieria didn't make operating multiple beam sabers look so easy. Then again it's just too much to imagine him when he's piloting isn't it? The thought of that cool calculating face as he looks through those glasses... Ah! Focus! Focus!" The Zssa launched back when it managed to obtain another window of attack and launched its missile pods towards the ground of the TC.
Brian could be heard from across the table when he warned, "One less beam saber gives me the perfect opportunity. Too bad you couldn't stay that well on your guard."
The TC's remaining right arm withdrew its beam saber for now and took out its own beam rifle when she answered, "Don't worry I will!" The TC fired the rifle and destroyed the missiles that made their way towards it and put up a perfect defense for the time being. She knew it was time to change strategy when the Zssa began to fly around the debris.
The two mobile suits circled around one another as they continued to fire while Brian commanded, "Damn it go down! This match is mine!"
"Not for as long as I have an extra three arms!" Hedy answered back. Unfortunately the persistence didn't prove for much when the Zssa managed to fire off the remaining right arm and remove Hedy's long range attack.
"Can't do much when you're up against a 57mm High-energy Beam Rifle huh? Now go down like a good opponent!" The Zssa continued to fire the beam rifle as both mobile suits attempted to fly away from one another.
"Oh just great. How am I supposed to win now?" The TC was cornered further towards the tall building when Hedy found the perfect opportunity. "Uh oh! ZAFT fire!"
"What the?" Her distraction wasn't a lie when Brian looked up to find the missiles from ZAFT mobile suits making their way above the targeted building. The Zssa made a jump into the air when it fired at the stray missiles. Brian was distracted for a critical moment when Hedy found the chance to gain an environment victory. The TC moved back and took its beam rifle into one of its left hands before she checked the height of the jump.
The TC turned the corner and fired its beam rifle towards the crumbling pillars of the building. The shots were enough when Brian realized too late that the building began to fall. The upper levels of the building landed on top of the Zssa and Brian left to scream his cry of defeat.
"Draws are completely unacceptable!" Hedy told herself. She realized the building was about to fall on her as well and made a quick dash to the side to avoid the same defeat. As soon as the building fell over the TC oversaw the remains of the destruction when Hedy sighed, "Whew... Perfect fate for you isn't it?"

The light in the room faded when the Battle System announced to the crowd, 'Battle End.'
The results changed the profile numbers to read,
'Hedy McVey. 8 wins. 2 losses.'
'Brian Scott. 11 wins. 4 losses.'
Brian rushed out the room to see his results posted for all to see and was left with the only option of a sore loser. "No! No! Oh please god no! Something had to go wrong there! It had to be rigged!"
The crowd didn't seem to care when one of the students gave the pot to Hedy announcing, "And the winner: Hedy McVey!"
Hedy was bouncing and cheering for herself when the boy dealt a Trad 11 asked, "Nice to see you pulled it off Hedy. You got plans for the money I take it?"
She turned around to the cafeteria when she answered, "You bet I do. Stromboli is up on the menu today!" The unfortunate students who lost their gunplas were probably expecting something a bit more chivalrous as they gave collective sighs.

Hedy walked off the school bus when she arrived home when she wondered to herself, "Hm... Maybe I should have got them some tacos just to show I was thankful." Her face brightened up when she held the permission slip she needed to begin her dream trip. "Well whatever happens I'm going to treat them when I get home victorious. 10th Annual Gunpla Tournament here I come!" Hedy rushed into her house with the permission slip in hand when she opened the door. "Hi mom. Hi dad. I've got the permission!"
Her dad was excited to hear this news when he congratulated, "Alright! I knew you'd be able to pull it off."
Her mom was in agreement, "That's fantastic honey. It looks like you get to go to Japan this year."
Hedy held the slip close to her chest when she showed her excitement, "It's the land that never gets old after every visit. The homeland of Tomino-san himself! The land that achieves the apotheosis of animation! And most importantly the greatest tournament in the world and it will be staring me! I cannot wait for Friday!"
Her dad gave a light laugh when he asked, "Just don't forget about us when you're there. So, ready?"
Hedy threw her book bag to the left side of the nearest couch when she remembered her promise from that morning, "Oh yeah! Ready!" She sat back in her couch while her mom prepared dinner while she thought to herself, Soon Tieria Erde... Soon you will see just how we are meant to be together once I arrive...

Brian was hard at work in the local Gunpla store when he told the store owner about the ordeal from hours ago. “From the sound of it you sure didn’t get the chance to head out for the Tournament like you had hoped.”
Brian was working on a left arm when he answered, “Not when I have what it takes to take advantage of the system.”
“Hm? How so?”
Brian set down the arm when he showed the stats on his Gunpla Base. Instead of the stats from earlier it now read ‘Brian Scott. 13 wins. 2 losses’. “Keeps track of battle data but the ID can be configured easy.” He explained.
The owner recognized the action when he observed, “You were willing to steal someone else’s Gunpla Base to gain a chance at entry. You sure have a way of following your old dad’s thinking down to a T.”
Brian was preparing the final basic attachments to his gunplay when he agreed, “He knows what’s right and what gets people ahead in life. They have to be the ones to want something the most to be the ones on top. You probably might be able to tell that I am probably one of those more ambitious types.”
The owner acknowledged the choice when he nodded asking, “So you do. You believe a cheat like this is something that will get you selected? You’ll probably be in trouble when you get back.”
Brian didn’t show any regret in his voice when he answered, “It’ll be worth it. People just need to see this as a way for us to learn how to be more ambitious. I’ll return a champion. No one is going to drag down my chances at being number one.”
The owner went to managing his shelves when he parted, “You certainly have ambition Brian. It’s only up to you to see your new Gunpla is enough to channel that spirit.”
“It will get me through alright.” Brian held his new Gunpla above when he promised himself, “You’ll provide me with the way forward I’m looking for. Gundam Revenge.”

Friday
Stockton Metropolitan Airport

Hedy was in amazement when she saw Brian preparing for the flight along with the other two students who qualified. She was wise to ask with her nearby friends, “How did he manage to qualify for this?”
One of them poked around the rumor, “He found some way to rig the system obviously.”
While another agreed, “I don’t even think he has a better gunplay for this he was desperate enough to bribe his way through.”
Hedy brought her determination forth when she warned, “Well I’ll have to be ready for him when it comes to the qualifiers. I beat him once, I can beat him several times over!”
“Yeah! You have what it takes girl!”
“Go out there and be ready to win the big ones!”
Hedy displayed her modesty when she promised, “You bet I will. All for you guys!” She turned away when she swayed for a few moments dreaming, “And for Tieria…”
“Could you at least not forget to send us a full report of what goes down at the Gunpla events?”
Hedy took hold of her friend’s face when she promised, “Sure thing Rachel. You just wait here for my mighty return!” Hedy leaned in to kiss her before parting, “So long! Pray for the winds of fortune to blow my way!”

Brian was observing the scene while waiting for the boarding to begin. He turned to meet with Hedy’s sight when he asked, “You think this will be easy? I’m more determined than you.”
Hedy crossed her arms when she told him, “If this plane had a Battle System I’d put you back in your place mister.”
The flight attendant outside announced to the passengers, “Boarding flight for Honolulu is leaving now.”
Hedy stepped behind another man when she warned, “Once we arrive in Japan we’ll see if you should have stayed or not.”
Brian agreed firmly, “Fine. I’ll just leave it at that.” The flight for what it was worth would have its peace for now. It was only when these future combatants had the chance to release their passions on the fields their true strength would be unveiled.

YingJue woke with a start. She was still on the train to Beijing where she will take her flight to Tokyo for the competition. She stared wistfully out the window, wondering what challenges await her. She had performed phenomenally at the beginning, but as she rose into prominence, she had encountered more opponents who were able to deal with her all-out all-range attack, either with reflexes that could dodge the endless beam fire from her DRAGOONS, accuracy to shoot them down with, or some other specific counter. She had managed to pull through and secured her spot in the tournament, but she knew it wasn't going to be easy. Despite the fact that she was representing her country in an internationally recognized sport, she still had had a tough time convincing her professors to give her leave to participate in the competition. It was thus even more impossible for any of her club-mates to come with her as they were held back by their studies and research projects. YingJue's mother would also be busy with work, so YingJue was going alone. She realized that she wasn't that familiar with the logistics of the tournament, which countries participated, or how many from each country were allowed to compete. She wondered if any of her fellow countrymen would be there. She sat back and closed here eyes again, praying silently that she would be able to take the hopes, dreams, and wishes of those left behind to victory.

The next day's hassle of work was done quickly by the Turkish Gunpla Builder, sending all the updates needed to his boss in the textile industry. He browsed the Gunpla battle fansite for more news and a highlight was how there will be an American Student qualifier for the tournament in Honolulu. The concept was made by Professor Nils Nielsen to promote the hobby further with obvious success in the US and some possibilities in Europe. It is a contrast in China with doubts on it's benefits. Students will compete in qualifiers like other blocs and the qualifying contestant will receive academic support as well. Expenses for hotel and travel to Shizuoka city will be covered for as usual. Kartal himself received booking notifications from Yajima Trading with a flight from Istanbul to Narita, followed by a shuttle bus to Shizuoka a few days ago.

***

"BATTLE ENDED"
"GYAN KAISEEEERRRRRRRRRRR!" screamed the defeated Gunpla builder.
"Japan 2nd Block will be represented by Yosuke Sanada!" The announcer declared.
The man who just won wore a white replica JMSDF unform and held his God Gundam variant in triumph. It was coloured in military grey with the exception of markings of the JMSDF. "And I will be able to proceed to the tournament!" He thought.

GBWC was hosting its broadcast when Ralph Jackson announced, “Good afternoon Honolulu and Gunpla fans worldwide! The moment you’ve been waiting for has come! Tonight we are sending you feed live to bring you… The final round of the American regional qualifiers! Who will be the grand winner to test their mettle in the Gunpla Battle Championship? Tonight’s match is brought to you live! Are you ready for some heated action Zach?”
Zachary turned to face his fellow commenter when he “You bet I am. Send in the finalists.”
Ralph gave the introduction for the first entry, “In this final round we’ve got two students from Antioch, California. Descended from the head of the American Branch of Bandai, Brian Scott.”
“He shows he has what it takes to go far alright.” Zachary added.
The profiles switched when Ralph introduced, “And from humble beginnings to even humbler ambitions. His opponent Hedy McVey is here to show she wants to qualify as well! Both first time entries to the Gunpla Battle Tournament, anything can happen now! This is easily when things get the most exciting!”
The lights dimmed while red searchlights went in various direction. Zachary gave his introduction, “And here is one of them! In this corner, America’s rich kid is ready to rush in for his prize!” The crowd on Brian’s side gave a roaring cheer while Mashymre Cello led the others in excitement for the upcoming battle. “He sure does look ready for something big isn’t he?” Zachary asked.
Blue searchlights began to shine when Ralph continued, “That is absolutely right. And in this corner the lovely lady who has her sights on a trip to Japan. She’s only a year younger but shows as much resolve to aim for the top. Give a warm hand to Hedy McVey!” On her side the crowd cheered while Setsuna and Marina were present among her side as others gave their support.

Hedy stared down the fraud of a battler when he stepped in front of the Battle System. “You think you have a good enough reason to reach the Gunpla Tournament?”
Hedy didn’t back down from his question when she answered, “You bet I do. Nothing is going to stop me from heading there.”
“Sorry to disappoint. But I have business waiting for me.”
“You talk about wanting to win more all the time. I say you drop the talk and start walking!” She knew this from the previous battle he had. Brian still didn’t seem to let go of that superiority complex that motivated him so far.
He proved her evaluation when he answered, “We’ll find out who wants it more!”

The battle began when the Battle System announced, ‘Please set your GP Base.’ The two American finalists placed their bases before one another when their stats appeared for the public to see.
‘Beginning Plavsky particle dispersal.’ The crumbling ruins of Brussels in among the pieces of Mariemaia forces littering the streets became the decided battleground for the match as the particles gave the illusion.
‘Please set your Gunpla.’ The final step was taken when both fighters prepared their respective gunpla for the battle.
Ralph gave his confirmation of the beginning match when he announced, “And the final round begins!”
Brian prepared himself when he ordered, “Launch Gundam! Go forth and claim my Revenge!” The Revenge made its way to the battlefield with its energy rifle in hand and prepared to make the first shots.
Hedy sent forth her gunplay when she announced, “Here comes your second helping of pain! Slice him to bits TC!”
The two gundam models found themselves across from one another while the two didn’t have any environmental hazards to worry about.
Brian had the first word when he offered, “Sorry we don’t have any taller buildings around. I would have loved to show you what I went through.”
“Poetic Justice is overrated anyway. Let’s battle!”
“With pleasure!” The Revenge withdrew both of its combat knives and thrust forward among the destroyed remains.
The TC was ready for this but didn’t have any beam sabers ready at the moment. It improvised with the benefit of all of its arms when it grabbed the Revenge but its forearms and slammed it into the nearest building while pummeling it into the ruins.
“Sorry I’m not done yet!” The Revenge prepared its Igelstellungs as it rushed forward. The TC made its dodges but found itself cornered from both sides while the Revenge dove forth with its combat knives again. This time the TC grabbed hold of the two arms while using the strength of all four arms to prevent it from being damaged. It wasn’t changing the fact that they still flew directly through one of the buildings and leveled others to the ground as they made their skid across the roads.
“ Some advantage you got. Won’t be for long!”
“Not happening a second time! These babies cost too much to replace!”
“I’ll just have to make due with what I’ve got.” The Revenge prepared its high energy beam rifle while it backed away from the possible range of its opponent. Just before the more powerful rifle could fire, the TC prepared its own and gave a few quick shots in the blind areas. The Revenge spun around clearly damaged but still regained its footing when it prepared for its final fire. The attempt to avoid the shot’s damage only resulted in the TC flying back again as it flew into one of the nearby buildings and reducing it to a pile.
“Not good! Come on and get up will you?!” The TC recovered its footing while Hedy moved around for the next possible area she could make an attack. The Revenge gave its shots while attacking her cover but was closing in on her location as it moved forward.
The yellow mobile suit fired on every area of the city remains before it prepared a grenade. Brian was staying on his guard when he demanded, “You know this is going to end with me getting what I came for! Just throw in the towel while you have the chance to save a few bucks!”
“Sorry. Not going to work that way!” The TC came out strong when it jumped from one of the nearby buildings and multiple beam sabers in its hands. The beam sabers came in a frantic series of movements as the two began their duel. The Revenge had its knives blocking every attempt while the TC continued an ongoing onslaught. The continuing onslaught was cut off though once the grenade that fell to the Revenge’s feet flung them both in opposite directions.
The fronts of both opposing mobile suits were damaged at the blasts when Brian warned, “Just got a bit more climatic. Don’t think you’ll have it that easy!”
“Never even thought about it!” The TC prepared its four beam sabers while flying towards the opponent and made contact with the two combat knives. Hedy could hear her own determination when she warned, “I think it’s about time you went down.”
Brian backed away from the saber contact when he prepared the Revenge’s beam rifle again and continued to fire. “Try again!” He managed to put some distance between himself and the TC while he attempted to find a way to turn things around. “How long before she lands flat on her face already?!”
“I really have to find a way to use these extra arms more effectively!” Hedy commented when she briefly reflected on the opportunity to end the battle in her previous block. She brought herself back to the now when the TC thrust forward and sliced away at any possible cover the Revenge might have had. It was a few more before she managed to chip away at her opponent’s beam rifle and saw it begin to fizzle from damage. “Ha! You don’t have me so easily!”
Hedy noticed she got ahead of herself when she was brought to the ground as the Revenge sliced away at the TC’s legs. “Not as full of carnage like last time. But we sure as hell didn’t even need it.” Brian looked over his fallen opponent when he asked, “You think you have anything that goes above the sheer desire of being the best?!”
“I think I’ll have to discover that for myself!” The TC thrust itself back when it continued in a forward motion. The Revenge was forced to make contact with every blow while the TC made an unstoppable rampage of slices.
Brian’s gunpla stood a few feet away as it tried to hold itself together among what damage it had taken. “Ah! I can still do this!”
“Not for long!”
Brian found the joints were moving too slowly when he tried to prepare another series of blocks, “Come on and respond! This is my battle!” With the final slide under the Revenge the TC brought out its beam sabers from its left side and simultaneously sliced away at the Revenge’s left arm and torso. The connection of the two forces brought about an explosion within the Revenge as the TC moved away from the blast zone. It stood from the flames of the explosion and looked away to find its opponent completely obliterated.

The Battle System ended the conflict when it displayed and announced to its viewers, ‘Battle Ended’.
Brian took hold of his gunplay when he cursed, “No! How did this happen again?!”
Zachary gave his confirmation of the final strikes when he announced, “And B-b-b-battle Ended!”
Ralph rallied the tournament crowd to a cheer when he announced, “The winner, new champion of the American Qualifying Tournament, and the player headed for the WORLD Tournament has been decided! Give it up Gunpla fans for Hedy McVey!”

When the cheers among the crowd had finished Ralph gave his report, “Absolutely thrilling! A historic new battle has been waged today and is certainly going up there with the best! Let’s get a word from our good friends down below on the reaction from Ms. McVey herself!”
Hedy was front and center on the camera screen when she introduced, “I want to thank everybody out there for cheering me on! I know you’re watching and I’m happy! Oh yeah! Tieria Erde! Tieria! If you’re out there I’m out for you! Please spot me in the tournament! You’ll be able to pick me out from the others!”
Zachary ended the broadcast when he requested, “And that’s a wrap from the American Qualifier herself. We turn now to one of our interns to give us an update on those unfortunate to make it past this point. Helena!”
Helena appeared on the screen when she was in front of the other participants reporting, “Thank you Zach. Unfortunately Mr. Scott has yet to appear for a statement on what has happened. But stay with us and you’ll receive word on the other two and what they hope to take from this day.”

Brian was assembling the Revenge out of sheer stress when he cursed over losing again to Hedy. “Set back again just because of some stupid girl. What kind of ambition does she even have for the tournament? She’s a rabid fangirl damn it! What else does she even have?” He set his gunplay down when he promised himself, “I know what she doesn’t have. An obstacle to jump over. I’ll show her. I’ll show everybody when I head there.” He took out his cellphone when he called, “Hey dad. Yeah I know you just saw that… Here’s the thing. I won’t be headed home just yet… Yeah it’ll be a while… Oh don’t worry. You’ll know… Okay, later.” He turned to his Gunpla when he promised himself, “It won’t be long. Time to book my flight then.”

After an uneventful flight and shuttle ride to Shizuoka, YingJue found herself situated into her hotel room. As it was already night, she pulled out her laptop and began looking over the structure of the tournament, if there were going to be elimination rounds first, and if not, what the starting bracket would look like. She also tried to look up information on the entrants from the other countries, looking for videos that had been uploaded to the internet of their battles so she could get a feel for their abilities and tactics. YingJue was getting nervous but excited.

Kartal had a view of Shizuoka city from the highway on a bus provided by the organisers to international fighters. It was about the fourth time he saw the city from there, the first being the 7th tournament. He looked back at how his attempts have so far been fruitless, always eliminated before the final tournament. From what he heard with all the fighters from around the world and the different arrival times and airport he knows he’s not the only batch arriving with more already arrived or coming later.

The bus stopped at the hotel the fighters are staying. He got off and retrieved his suitcase from the storage. He was going to head to the hotel but noticed how there was also a man with a camera crew some distance away as well.

“Hello fans! I’m Heine from the band Revolution, the image character chosen for this year’s tournament!” The man introduced. “Right now I’m in Shizuoka city in the Shizuoka prefecture. Tomorrow in this city the World Tournament will begin! Over 80 Gunpla fighters from 68 countries will gather to decide who will be the strongest of all! My brother and fellow band member Miguel will explain the rules for us!” He passed the role to a blonde man.
“Thanks Heine!” Miguel started. “The contestants will win points through different battles in the form of individual, team or endurance. The 16 fighters with the most points will advance to the final tournament and go further to become a champion!”

Kartal just passed through them but the conclusion he heard got his attention. “That will be all from us, Heine and Miguel of Revolution!” Heine was about to finish. “I will also be participating in the tournament, representing Japan’s Kansai!” That announcement realized that they’re not just good musicians and his opponents will come in different forms. He continued to the hotel where he will check in.

***

As Kartal entered his room, he inserted the keycard to give electricity to the room he found an envelope with the logo of Yajima Trading on a bed and had a read through. “The usual cocktail reception.” He commented on it. From his suitcase he got his suit for the night out to get his Marmara Hyperion and Mavi Zeta, both carefully wrapped to prevent damage. “I will win this time.” He vowed to both of his models. “If we can’t then we’ll go as far as we can. We will try again next year.”

It was a morning in the city of Shizouka when a recent flight from Honolulu International touched down to the ground. There was one arrival in particular who announced to the city, "Ohayōnippon!" Hedy made her way through the city block when she told herself, "It won't be long now! I just have to wait for the tournament to finally happen!" She gave multiple glances from all angles when she expressed her excitement, "Oh boy what to do first. It probably isn't going to start for a while, there's a lot I can think of before the actual thing starts." She took outa list and began to decide, "Hm how should I prioritize... Seek and Find Tieria Erde... Meet the competition... Seek and Find Tieria Erde... Get Replacement Parts for TC... Seek and Find Tieria Erde... Seek and find Tea and... What? How did that get smudged there?" She broke off her concentration when she saw a gathering of costumed characters making their way through the nearby hotel area. "Oh, wonder what's going on around here?"

"Here we are... Shizuoka." Brian stood before the city block of the Gunpla Tournament to be held within a matter of days. All that separated him from his chance to move in was his lack of qualification. "Now I have to find my way in."
He walked down the block stuffing onigiri in his mouth hoping for stimulation from brain food. It was a few moments before he saw a nearby gathering of costumed people near one of the hotels. Brian took a look and asked a participant dressed as Naomi Fluegel, "Hey what's everybody gathering here for?"
The girl turned around to notice Brian's presence, "Oh hi! I take it you're here on visit right?"
"Yeah, travel."
"Well what you're looking at is the international gathering of the New Zealand Char Clone Brigade! A club for fans of characters inspired by the great Char Aznable be they Gundam or non Gundam related. This is our first gathering here and we have the New Zealand rep here for the Gunpla Tournament!"
Brian grinned at the opportunity when he told her, "Really? I think I'd like to meet him. I'm hoping to get some sponsorship for my company back home." He showed his business card and saw it was legitimate in the eyes of the fan when she smiled.
The girl pointed her thumb to the quickly built stage behind her, "Oh he's getting ready backstage. You might be able to catch him before the big speech!"
"Thanks. I'll see what kind of stuff he's made of." Brian began to make his way towards the stage when he asked himself, "Heh. Dad doesn't think I have what it takes? Let's see if he's right."

The unfortunate New Zealand rep of the Gunpla tournament was tied up and gagged as he was stuffed into a trunk while Brian cracked his knuckles, "Trust me dude. It's nothing personal. I just need a costume for a while... And this gunpla while I'm at it." He said picking up a XM-07 Vigna Ghina gunpla model.
"Mm! Mmmm!" The rep made last minute attempts at escape before Brian slammed the lid on him.
Brian gave the lock a spin when he commanded, "Just shut up in there won't you? It won't be long, you might lose a few pounds." He turned to the wardrobe of "Char Clone" costumes when he praised himself, "Haha! Loser. Alright what have we got here?" He began to thumb through them commenting, "Too minimal... Makes my hair stick out... Aha! Perfect."

A news reporter on the street announced to her audience among the growing music, "And now we join live to bring you coverage of the first arrival of the NZCCB, that's the New Zealand Char Clone Brigade." The Char fans, natives and tourists alike gathered to see the Brigade's gathering as they celebrated their representative of the Tournament. The cheer of the brigade began when the fans sung,

Send in the clones, we'll stomp you to the ground!
Send in the clones, we'll honor our idol!
Send in the clones, we're here in Shizuoka, enter the fight, glory to be with Char Aznable!

As the fanfare played a host stood on stage dressed as Viola Gyune introducing, "Good Morning New Zealand Char Clone Brigade! Are you ready for the greatest Gunpla Tournament on Earth to take place?!"
The crowd gave a unified, "YEAH!"
"Then let's get ready to introduce our group rep! Today we have the first person to ever Represent our great Brigade! Give a warm hand to the New Zealand Rep of the Gunpla Tournament, David Holden!" Brian stepped out in the Carozzo "Iron Mask" Ronah outfit he confiscated and gave the greeting gestures the character was known for.
The cheers died down and Brian asked, "Greetings my fellow Brigade members! How long have you waited for this day?" Several dozen answers were shouted through the gathering before Brian continued, "As I had hoped I shall see that today is in fact the time we of the great Brigade have made our mark on Gunpla Battle history! We will not let anyone fail to see what makes us great! I shall lead all of us to victory!" He accepted another round of cheers from the Brigade before continuing, "Let it be known that with this victory comes a great deal of preparation. I shall be in private discovering my enemies and learning the best Gunpla techniques. When I have mastered them this tournament will be mine!" He gave a bowing ovation while the Brigade Anthem continued.
Brian was about to make his way off stage before he saw the Viola Gyune host greet, "Wow David. Here you were just talking about having fun before. Did you just change your mind at the last minute?"
Brian did his best to go along with the act when he coughed in the helmet, "Hehe. What can I say? I want the crowd all fired up and ready for a good show."
"Well it's sure working. Don't be full of hot air when you get ready for the real deal."
Brian raised his hand when he promised, "Oh don't worry. I won't. Now excuse me, I have to get my gunplas ready." He made his way towards the trailer of David Holden when he grinned, "Hehe. It's just a matter of time now."

Hedy watched the speech and the Brigade's gathering with interest and as soon as David made his way off stage she wondered to herself, "Hm... There seems to be something a bit off." She tapped her chin when she turned around asking, "Why is it there are no cameo characters around here and all of them just cosplayers? How am I supposed to find any leads at this rate?"

YingJue discovered through her research that team competitions would be part of the tournament. She wasn't sure if the teams would be created randomly or if they would be self-made. Erring on the side of caution, YingJue felt it wouldn't hurt to at least try and make some friends/allies in case she needed to form her own team. She grabbed the invitation to the cocktail reception she had found and made her way down to the lobby. There was no harm in being civil: this was supposed to be a friendly competition after all, though she understood if some people tended to take it a bit too personally.

At the reception, she sort of hung back, being an unimposing wallflower type of person. She grabbed a small plate of hors-d'oeuvres but didn't get anything to drink. As much as alcohol was an entrenched part of grad school life, YingJue abstained for the most part, as her ability to think clearly was something she held sacred.

“Yes Mr. Korkusuz, you may now enter.” The registrar confimed his name.
The Turkish Gunpla Builder entered the ballroom and observed the builders and people related to the tournament such as sponsors. He can see some that returned and newcomers including Sanada, the pilot of the God Gundam variant. He was in a black-tie attire, not in his usual SDF uniform that kind of defines him from everyone else.
“Wine, sir?” A waiter asked, holding a tray with glasses of red wine.
Kartal took one quickly. “Thank you.” He replied and allowed him to go. He took a sip and continued with examining the people in the room. His next search got his attention on the woman in a green dress who defeated Cziommer. He later found the two brothers that were filming near the hotel, talking to some other people and if they’re here then they aren’t just for show.
YingJue caught his attention as one of the few at the walls of the room. There's always those type of people that seem secluded. "Hello there." He called to her. "I'm Kartal Korkusuz, the Turkish Champion or the Eagle of Istanbul as some people prefer to call me." Unfortunately there was no nametag or such to idnetify people. "And you are?" He asked her.

"My name is Fang YingJue," YingJue replied very formally to Kartal, "I'll be representing China. I don't think I have an official nickname yet, though my friends back home call me 'Fang of Light' as a pun on my surname, even though my Gundam technically uses DRAGOONs and not Fangs."

If memory served, YingJue had the distinct impression that Kartal was a veteran. "This is the first time I've made it this far, but you've been in the championships before, haven't you?" She asked, hoping he'd be willing to give her some pointers.

Seeing the event was more on the professional side Hedy was dressed in her red kimono she obtained several trips to Japan before. Unfortunately the registrar had an expected procedure for someone her age. "Greetings Ms. McVey. Please enjoy the hors-d'oeuvres and drinks prepared for minors."
"Thanks..." She accepted making her way through the reception giving her invitation. She took a cup of sparkling water when she made her way through the crowd wondering, "Sigh...Why do I have to go with drinking laws out here as well? Even out here I'm still a minor. I don't even get the exception being a contestant." She observed the recent entry in the Carozzo Ronah outfit near a news reporter when she commented, "Whoever he is, he's definitely got the privilege... Doesn't even make sense to say that of course I know who he is he just got introduced."

The man in the Carozzo uniform was answering a question while holding a wine glass in hand, "Why yes madame. You see, I have taken a serious oath to my loyal brigade in that I will march towards victory and nowhere else."
"And you say you won't remove your helmet until you have placed first place in the Gunpla Tournament?"
"That is correct. A true man of my stature does not allow his identity to be known until the face of his enemies can gaze upon the vestige of victory. Best of all they shall not be able to read my emotions in battle or on the neutral grounds but I will have the full advantage of reading theirs."
The news reporter turned to her cameraman announcing, "Spoken like a true soldier. We're hoping for victory on your side. However now we must turn to our representative of this year, Mr. Sanada."
As the reporter made her way to find Yosuke Sanada one of the following Brigade members was enthusiastic when he pointed out, "I swear he is going to give a new image for us pretty soon."
Another one of the Brigade members following Brian asked another, "I wonder if it's all an act. He could be doing this just to make sure that we're fooled with. Dave's never been like this before."
The girl in the Viola outfit shrugged at the new attitude when she answered, "Well I could get used to it. I think it's about time he actually started acting like he cared about a competition."
Brian observed the situation going on outside when he grinned, "They're all buying it. I don't even know who I'm filling in and these people are actually believing that I'm the real deal. Can't let them get any idea about a false identity. Not yet." He noticed three of the top Brigade members were still around him and recognized his best chance at cooling was tugging his collar. He kept his voice low when he cursed, "Damn. Still hot in here. Come on and give me a chance to drink already."

Hedy made her way through the other members when she found two in particular. Kartal was introducing himself when she commented, "He looks familiar... Oh she's cute!" Hedy saw YingJue as she made her way towards their location. She took her cup in hand while introducing, "Hi there. Don't mind me, I'm just here to find out about who's who tonight. Any of you see me on tv? I'm Hedy McVey repping the good old USA. Yep no pressure here. I probably should seeing I'm here for a country and everything but I don't really think we should get hostile off of those things alone. Either of you feel the same?"

"You're right that I'm a veteran." He answered. "This will be my fourth time entering and I lost in the elimination rounds previously." He thought of an advice to give. "But veterans can't guarantee efficiency while newcomers can't guarantee innovation either." He said to her.
Kartal's attention turned to Hedy in the red kimono. "Getting some allies never hurt in tournaments and vital in the battle royale and 3 on 3 matches." He agreed with her. "I'm Kartal Korkusuz, Turkish champion or the Eagle of Istanbul." Regarding her appearance on television he gave a reply. "I was able to watch the American qualifiers on the internet at Ataturk airport. You did well in the matches." He thought of one way to get to know them further. "I'm thinking of eating elsewhere after this." He said to them. "The food here never really fill your stomach and you both can join me. I know a good sushi place."

Sanada spoke to the microphone. "It's a convention that got me into the whole hobby." He explained to a question. "I met a group of Zeon cosplayers and brought me into this."
The Revolution brothers looked at the ongoing interview of Sanada. "And I thought this is a private event..." Heine remarked. "But we'll show our skills tomorrow and live up to the expectations as the image character."
"Right brother." Miguel replied. "I'm working on our trump card for the finals. For now we have the GOUF Ignited to use."

YingJue nodded silently to what Kartal told her, seeing if she could gain wisdom from his statement, when Hedy approached.

"I'm Fang YingJue of China," She replied, though she decided to not restate her given alias as it was not one she liked tremendously given it's punny nature. YingJue had unfortunately not watched any of Hedy's matches so she kept silent in order not to offend. She wondered what their specialties were. Most Gundams were more-or-less well-rounded, and YingJue realized that her over-reliance on a single gimmick might well prove to be her downfall. She would need to find out what her weaknesses were and overcome them through innovative ways of using her suit.

When Kartal invited them to have sushi, YingJue thought that it would be a good opportunity. She did better in small groups, and hoped that she could maybe establish a team of three early and discuss tactics with them. "Yes, I'd be honored to dine with you both."

Hedy grinned when she heard Kartal congratulate her victory in the qualifiers. "Thanks. I didn't know how far it would go but I sure managed to pull it off didn't I?" She heard the offer from Kartal when she jumped, "Oh my favorite!" She remembered the place wasn't named when she added, "Well that's kind of broad but still!" She followed YingJue and Kartal anxious for a full dinner.

It took a while before Brian finally managed to find a period where he could convince the other Brigade members to turn their attention away, "Excuse me everyone, I must relieve myself for a period."
One of the Brigade members agreed, "Okay David. We'll save you a seat."
"Yeah... You do that." Brian made his way towards the restroom area and made his way into a private room as soon as one of the finalists made their way out. Brian was quick to lock the door when he removed his helmet and took several desperate breaths. "...Damn. I never thought I'd get out of there. I swear I have to find out how to get time to myself. I have to find out what this guy's gunpla can do and how I can use it." He began to splash water on his face when he remembered his blinded fans outside, "More importantly get some peace and quiet without having to deal with those people out there."

Hedy had her seat alongside YingJue and Kartal when they made their way to the sushi place. She began her traditional opening question before their orders were placed, "So I think we're all on the right track right now, so I'd like to ask the two of you something. You don't need to tell me what year, but what is your birthdate?"

"Let's get going then." Kartal nodded as he guided them. The restaurant was outside of the 'athelete's village' of the world tournament, a ten minute walk from the hotel. The three went inside the restaurant that was written 'Akahana'. He opened the door into a new atmousphere where sushi were placed on conveyors to pick from. "Welcome!" The man with the large nose who was clearly the owner shouted. Of all the decorations in the room, an Acguy as a sushi chef was the most notable. They took seats at the counter, where sushi are reachable as well.
Kartal was confused with the question. "Birthdate?" The Eagle of Istanbul scratched his head. "7th of January but I don't see what you need it for." He replied nonetheless. "Just choose the sushi from the conveyour. Since I invited you both expenses are on me." He grabbed a tuna, got a small dish for the soy sauce and ate it after briefly dipping it in the sauce. "I should mention that there's wasabi in them. If you want one without them you can ask the chef."

"Mine's August 24th," YingJue replied, wondering why Hedy wanted to know. Maybe she was just being friendly. "What's yours?" YingJue reciprocated, while helping herself to some sushi and nodding appreciation to Kartal. She waited for an answer from Hedy before continuing, "So I'm a little worried about the team battles. Will the teams be self-made or will they be assigned by the tournament?"

When Hedy heard the offer being given at the sushi conveyor she made a quick nab for some octopus and sea eel sushi along with cucumber rolls to balance the meal while deliberately adding an amount of wasabi sauce. She asked her first question after helping herself to the first plate and heard them both answer with their birthdates. She turned to YingJue when she answered any concern, “Mine’s on June 18. Under the beautiful twins of Gemini.” She wiped her mouth from some remaining rice when she finished her plate and took out a small book when she checked, “Let’s see now… That makes Kartal a Capricorn and YingJue a Virgo. So how does that work for us now?”
She took a few moments to check before she had answers for their curiosity. She turned to Kartal when she congratulated, “Well some good news, I say that you’re a hard worker and ambitious. If you have any worries to get rid of I’ll be here to help and if I need security I can tell you’ll be there.” She turned to YingJue when she contained her excitement, “Even better. If you need any help we’ll be able to help each other for hours ‘cause we’ll be that easy with each other. Believe me if you want to know anything else well… I’m here to help.”
She took note of YingJue’s question and decided that the situation might be something to consider. She remembered the team battles were formed at some point but the notion of seeing them in action was just more exciting than knowing the rules that went behind them. She bit down on some egg sushi when she agreed in an awkward tone, “That might be a pretty good detail to find out. Could you remind us how teams work exactly?”

The description of a Capricorn is accurate for the Eagle of Istanbul with how he entered the championship for four years and still determined to win despite his defeats. "That does describe me." He remarked. He grabbed a plate of salmon to eat shortly.
Kartal jogged his memory for the team matches. "Think we make a team and confirm it to the organisers." He remembered. "Coordination with allies will be vital there." He could describe it in more detail if he had the official pamphlet with him. "But I guess we have a team in advance, which will be good." But he thought about having to fight them in a bad chance but shrugged it off. "You had a look at potential opponents?" He asked them. "It's good to know your enemy in advance."

YingJue didn't place too much stock in horoscopes, but in order to be tactful, she kept her opinions to herself. She was glad that Kartal was already considering the three of them as a team, it meant she didn't have to awkwardly ask them. "I have unfortunately, not done enough research on the other contestants. Although, if we're going to be a team, we'll have to understand our own group dynamics first, what our strengths are, what our...," YingJue looked at the other two intently, "...weaknesses are." She hoped the other two wouldn't take this as an effort to weasel out their flaws for her own benefit. She decided to ease any possible tension by offering up her own information first, "For example, my Mythos Gundam is based on the Legend Gundam from Seed Destiny. I specialize in using DRAGOONS, but my close-combat options are limited with only a beam javelin to defend myself with. The extra DRAGOON shoulder packs and beam shields I added also make Mythos much bulkier and less maneuverable. I also don't have any other suits that I can use to switch up my current tactic. If you as my team members can find ways to compensate for my flaws and take advantage of my strengths, I would greatly appreciate it."