Golden Spiral

Overlord: How Like A God

Yea it's not a huge deal since cyberpunk land isn't anywhere in our future. Home is very much out of reach for all of us. I guess those without family or personal connections will take it better, but that's something to watch in the IC.

Overlord: How Like A God

'Outdoorsman' in this context could also just be someone who goes into VR simulations of forested areas and hikes around, too. Simulated trees and animals are real if you want to believe. Totally doable with standard augmentations by this point, MMOs arent the only thing people use that stuff for.

Overlord: How Like A God

I'll be making a good religious girl in a bit.

Overlord: How Like A God

I'm interested.

My Hero Academia rp: Underdogs

Interested, assuming there's still room.

Mobile Suit Gundam: LIFELINE

Sheena Zern

---

Her sisters words softened Sheena, if only slightly. Even so, she seemed a bit more on guard now- while less intense, she also seemed to be worried. Whether that was over her sister or the unfortunate state of Venus, it couldn't be easily told.

". . .It certainly sounds like him." Sheena showed some restrained and refrained from giving her favorite wheat strain. This wasn't the time or place, tempting as it was.

No, this conversation didn't have the right to be light.

"You're right. I have a good enough understanding of what's to come." She paused for a moment, placing an idle hand at her hip.

"A lot of people are going to die." There seemed to be a hint of mirth in her voice for just a moment, but only that long. It was never the princess' intent, but that would probably end up being the true reason she had found herself here. That was 'gravity' for you. The princess sighed, resigning herself to a dreary and uncertain future.

It may not have seemed it, but the resistance and civil unrest of Venus were in theory a sideshow to her. The reality of the situation was naturally different, but still.

Regardless-

"I'm more concerned about what comes after, Asallia. This is a battle fought over hearts, and not just on Venus." It went without saying of course. But being who she was, Sheena said it anyway.

She was familiar with such things, at least. More than any tool, it was your heart that allowed you to kill enemies and seize 'victory'. She was sure of at least that much from personal experience.

Regardless, more immediate subjects needed to be discussed. She took on a more formal posture, though still candid as ever. It was time to go over what had made her initiate this little talk in the first place.

"There'll be an important military reform conference shortly after our arrival on Annona. If you want to send anyone along, please do. More insight is always good." It was perfectly obvious who in particular Sheena was getting at. This time however, she decided to leave the obvious to float all on its lonesome.

"When our schedules open up, we should have a nice, long, talk. Assuming you desire it, of course." Sheena turned to leave as she spoke, giving her sister sparse time to respond about the invitation. Given that she wasn't expecting an answer right now, perhaps Sheena thought it fine and appropriate.

That done, Sheena made a quick but relatively graceful exit.

However, it seemed she wasn't quite finished.

"Regarding your speech- I'm probably not qualified to say it since I don't write my own, but. . ." The princess stopped at the door for one ghost of a moment. A brief delay later and the door opened to afford her exit. The Guards had to confirm there was nothing suspicious going on in the outside hallway, after all.

"Well. I'm not so sure the mood can get anymore sour, so I wouldn't let Dads specter bother you." It was hard to tell if she was encouraging Asallia or making fun of her.

Without saying goodbye, she exited her sisters chambers and made for her own. Final preparations had to be made before the Venue's arrival, after all.

Had the Guards looked behind themselves, they would've seen Sheena smiling as she left her sisters room.

Mobile Suit Gundam: LIFELINE

Sheena Zern

---

There was a simple reality to be acknowledged the second one left the safety of planets. It didn't matter if you were hauling wares or tracking pirates, royalty or commoner.

Space was really, really vast- traveling through it took a long time. There were even possible psychological issues associated with long journeys, at least within sub optimal conditions. Some just weren't cut out for it.

Furthermore, it was really boring. Especially if one was traveling as far out as Venus of all places. Part of the reason the Venue even existed was to solve that issue for the Royal Family and its retinue.

Sheena herself had plenty of bad history with this ship in particular, though. In the first place she had always been on military vessels which themselves had far fewer amenities. Being on something so spacious and extravagant was somewhat awkward for her. In comparison the Venue held countless ways to entertain yourself, and yet she couldn't find herself getting comfortable at all. Normally she would train or study to stave off the all encompassing boredom of void travel. Logically speaking taking advantage of the Venue's hospitality would be the right thing. But instead she had spent the last couple months doing her average routine.

The last few days had been different, though.

As the dress uniform she was wearing made apparent, she was fully prepared to leave the Venue on time. She had been properly resting the last couple of days so she'd be at one hundred percent when they arrived. Over training your body or mind led to a deflation period where both repaired themselves and she needed to be at her peak on arrival. That had resulted in her staying in her room for the last several days. For the most part she had just been reading.

Normally she'd fraternize a bit with the crew, but the Snow Beetles had soured that with their presence. It had made this entire trip far more dreary as a result.

Her movement through the halls were rapid, yet still held a certain amount of dignity. Upon nearing her objective, she passed by a positively beaming young woman. Sheena didn't give her a direct look, but that girl had beautiful eyes. She took a mental note to ask about who she might be whenever there was time. If she could hazard a guess, it was likely someone within that girls retinue.

Regardless of mood she was here on business, and she wanted a word with the most important person on the ship. In truth, it had been a conversation she wanted to delay until after their arrival.

But doing what was right and what you wanted were often two different things.

At such a brisk pace she finally arrived at her destination, the quarters of her sister. Sheena didn't say a word to the guards posted at the door- she didn't need too. After her sister had time to prepare, the doors opened and she continued forward. For the safety of their privacy and lives, the doors were just as quickly sealed behind them.

Upon seeing her sister, she would without a doubt give a sigh of relief.

"The point, then. What's your aim on Venus? Also, if you plan to do a concert I want a ticket." There was nothing wasted in those words. She didn't even bother to give a greeting this time. Normally protocol was something to follow, but in this space there was no need for flowery pleasantries. Moreover, they were due to arrive any minute. This was really last second and ridiculous.

. . .And moreover, she really spoke plainly sometimes.

Mobile Suit Gundam: LIFELINE

Princess Sheena Zern

The Lodestar

---

476 R.C║Zern Empire║Martian║Female

Physical Appearance

Still developing, Sheena is the image of youth. Standing at a comfortable 5'8", the first thing one notices are her soft yet striking amber eyes. The second would be the falcon-eyed look contained within them. Third, then, would be her long burnt orange hair- usually arrayed in a pony tail for convenience. In the rare instances in which she isn't wearing her pilot suit(not begrudgingly so), her athletic yet somehow amply ladylike form would become much more apparent. Certainly even in cases where the Princess is found wearing formal or casual wear, she still uses her pilot suits headpieces as a badge of honor. Her body betrays none of the stereotypical Martian 'weakness', outwardly or internally. Even discounting her physicality, there is a certain intense aura about her that is difficult for even enemies to deny.

Personality Traits:

-Decisive and Bold
-Competitive
-Instinctual
-Valiant
-Outrageous
-Keen

Biography:

To the Royal Family and public at large Princess Sheena Zern is the family "White Sheep"- and a front runner for Imperial succession. Yet just like anyone else, she has a lengthy past.

First born of the Emperor's second wife, Sheena is the Royal Families fourth child. That very second Empress is the so-called 'Red Rose of Mars', who traces her family lineage back to the flight from Earth. The families ancestor was one of the head scientists who managed the projects involving Genetic Manipulation and Terraforming, a tradition the family pursues even into the modern era. The union that led to Sheela was initially purely political, motivated by a need to placate one of the Imperial Families oldest and most powerful allies. However the Second Empress' enchanting beauty and stunning Rosarium was said to ignite passion within the Emperor, leading to genuine love.

Sheena was conceived shortly after. Leveraging that blooming passion, the Second Empress ensured her first child would receive the best genetic treatment conceivable. Perhaps because of this (or obsessive maternal love), Sheena was always who got the most of her Mothers attentions.

It is a well known fact that the Rose Empress was as protective as she was demanding. Aside from the rare play date, she had little interaction with many others aside from her parents and teachers, sibling or not. Pressure was something that she seemed to enjoy; or better put, excelled in spite of it. Through her time on Mars she indulged in many of the hobbies the Emperor encouraged within his children- often with great zeal.

There was little doubt in the Royal Family or elsewhere that she was and still is 'Daddies Girl'. Sheena was always closest to him, even more so than her Mother. However, that wasn't to say there weren't times when she displeased him. For example, there was an incident where she beat a servant boy to a practical pulp. The Emperor and Second Empress were appalled, and she was thoroughly disciplined by both separately for bullying a fellow Martian. It was surprising that such a well behaved girl would be so violent, but the situation became clearer after interviewing the boy. Apparently, he had been insulting the Rose Empress, and Sheena took extreme exception to that.

Quietly arrangements were made to send he and his family away from the Imperial Palace. It was good that his family had been given ample time to move, because tragedy nearly struck not a week later. Though the details aren't exceptionally clear, it seemed that Sheena had nearly drowned in one of the many scenic lakes surrounding the Royal Palace- likely during her swim practice. The very same servant boy she had beaten to a pulp was tending to a nearby hedge- hearing her shouts, he swam out and saved her life.

For months afterward(and leading up until his departure from the family estate), Sheena was taken with the concept of following the boy around. Sometimes she may order him around, sometimes she followed silently. Though she kept her distance, Sheena held a certain fascination for him.

While grateful for his actions, the overbearing Rose Empress refused to rescind the orders sending him away. She was simply too concerned over her daughters proper development, though his family received just compensation for their sons heroic actions. Not known to others, it was around this point that a growing rift began to form between Sheena and her mother- something that has never been mended at a personal level even today.

Still, the Fourth Princess' life continued just as it had. Starting at an early age she received an extremely thorough education suitable for a Princess. Because of her drive and growingly competitive nature, her parents deemed a military education was also appropriate. Though it was initially merely just instruction on the study of Old-Earth tactics and modern Martian doctrines, it evolved over time. Sheena was part of many military youth programs designed for those of blue blood. To her parents pride she even managed to become attached to Martian JROTC and ROTC programs despite such a young age.

The Princess entered the Deimos Academy roughly around the same time as a certain other Princess operating under a fake name. Unlike 'that' person, her experiences there were actually public. Despite her young age, she uncannily accepted military life like a glove. It was an environment she excelled in as naturally as one breathes. It was almost as though she was designed for it.

By the time of the Grand Ceremony on the Venue, Sheena was brimming with confidence and some measure of pride. Yet all that was shattered when the Butcher of Banzing nearly managed to bribe her way to power over the solar system. Sheena made an attempt at resistance. It led to being beat within an inch of her life- forced to watch as her Father bent the knee and nearly died in turn.

After Cathrida was shot shortly after, Sheena found new vigor. Ignoring her broken body she rallied alongside others, using the hangars Redcoats to fight off the Pirates. With the immediate crisis resolved, she immediately joined the military proper to extract her vengeance.

Though her body and mind had matured at a rapid pace, Sheena was still a child in a war zone. Her competitive nature and some choice missteps had gotten friends or allies killed, leaving a bad taste in her mouth. The trauma dulled her competitiveness with others, but certainly not her own innate desire to succeed and come out on top.

Not all her experiences with warfare were negative. The various skirmishes on and around the Dead Earth had fantastic views, and she particularly enjoyed the sunrise and sunsets.

Vengeance eventually gave way to joy as she developed a legitimate warrior's spirit. Only a fraction of the human population is mentally suited for the traumas and stress of warfare. She just so happened to be well within that bracket. She would participate heavily within the pirate conflict start to finish, building up a name and reputation worthy of her modern popularity. In particular, she was always someone who never asked others to do what she couldn't. This gave her the adoration of the common soldier and officer. However, it also led to a dangerous lifestyle where she frequently returned from battle as nothing more than a red mass.

When the war finally ended in the Zern Empire's total supremacy, she put down her sword. . . Mostly.

Aside from the periodic Pirate hunt and military duties, she turned her attention toward more civilian pursuits. Generally this has been used to create her own economic infrastructure, along with cementing her own popularity and image. The Princess has made forays into politics and the Imperial Parliament as well, becoming the Moderate factions 'face', as it were.

Her reasons for involving herself in business are simple. While its true that the Royal Family has a great deal of economic resources(and much more valuable clout) available to them, Sheena wanted a independent money stream. Moreover, it was something to apply herself too.

Her work includes selective sponsorship for products, investment and acquisition of businesses and a vigorous real estate empire built around the Asteroid Belt. At least part of her reason for coming to Venus has to do with expanding her acquisitions, certainly.

It can't go unsaid that nearly a year ago Sheena was rescued by a Terran boy during an attack on a Dead Earth pirate base. She claims that her position was overran by enemy reinforcements, leading to him heroicly defeating all pirates on his own.

So she claims, anyway.

The Princess' recent departure for Venus had many motivations- some personal, most official. In the post war period shes seen the military and society of Mars atrophy somewhat. She seems to have a desire to 'fix' 'things', as it were, and her natural conclusion to accomplishing that has been "Just become Empress". As it stands, her position on Mars is more than secured. Going beyond her own popularity and pull, the Rose Empress and various allies are championing her cause with great vigor.(And it needn't be said Sheena prefers to keep her distance from Mom).

Venus has the current attention of the military, along with all the very important infrastructure that follows. Given the instability and Royal Families tunnel vision of Mars, she basically has no competition for the moment. Coming to Venus was a power play with plenty of outward purity. After all, Princess Asallia needs someone there to ensure no one takes advantage of her very special kindness.

At a deeper level, there are swirling rumors of supposed 'Pickwick Papers' Sheena is compiling with express backing from the Emperor. Whatever they may be, certain elements of the Military have started to get a tad nervous. . .

Accompanying her to Venus is the Sovereign Military Order of the Olympian Snow Beetles, sent along by the Imperial Parliament for protection. A well known Elite Unit, they are made up of only the finest blue bloods within Martian Society. Each one could at the very least give an Ace a run for their money. They are spearheaded by the Three Acts Curtain, the groups most Elite squad. Each one is a bonifide Hero in their own right, and will be reporting to the Venusian Governor himself for the duration of their stay.

Certainly none of this is propaganda.

Skills and Abilities

Refined Human: Like most of her royal siblings, the quality of her bloodline is great. Her base attributes have all been enhanced, and she is highly resistant to disease and illness. In high stress situations it becomes possible to enter into a state of 'Overclocking', a staple of high quality blood. However, even among her family she can be considered an 'optimized human' whose genetic therapy was beyond excessive. Sheena's capacity to function as a Refined is fundamentally higher than her peers. Her physical development was rapid from an early age, but has since plateaued with incremental improvements after each therapy treatment. A gift from Mom.

Magnetism: Force of will. A form of 'Charisma', but not to inspire the masses or open up dialogues. Instead, this is the force of ones 'Gravity' and Will on the world around them. It also includes the natural instinct and capacity to choose the optimal course, but as a leader Sheena is still inexperienced. A gift from Dad.

Military Talent: Sheena has a long history with the military stretching back well into her childhood. She has extensive training backed by years of combat experience and her own special touch for warfare. During the pirate conflict she came close to surmounting the barrier that prevents one from going beyond even an Ace. She is often compared to the dark oddity of the Royal Family, the Wyvern- if he is a 'Black Hole', then she is a 'Shooting Star'.

Personal Items and Equipment

Nanocarbon Sabre: An almost ceremonial looking sword sometimes given to high ranking military officers. It is constructed of nanocarbon beta and is properly balanced for real combat, which Sheena actually uses it for. She prefers to use melee weapons in combat rather than heavier ordinance to reduce the chances of collateral damage- so it was a natural choice. A scabbard isn't usually included(its meant to be hung up on a wall), so she provided her own.

Nanocarbon Shield: An unfolding buckler given to her as a gift from a certain someone. Thin and lightweight, it is practically impervious to most small arms fire and melee attacks. The maker was even thoughtful enough to include kinetic dampeners. When not deployed it takes the form of a small watch like device on her off hand. Apparently she wants to find the designer and ask them to make some modifications so she can "Throw it at people and then call it back".

Basic sidearm: Modified and updated antique Lancaster pistol with a pepperbox design. It uses standard .38 revolver rounds and has four shots before it has to be reloaded. Even with her training, she can only ever hit targets at medium range. A gift from her Father for completing military training, but aside from being functional there is nothing special about it. Sheena rarely if ever uses it.

Pilot Suit: A sleek and modern looking suit for piloting a MS. It is reinforced with padding to reduce kinetic damage, along with some nanocarbon plating that protects the Princess from small arms fire. Sheena is almost always wearing one to show off her accomplishments. She enjoys legitimate praise.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Sheena is a woman guided by instinct who naturally excels at decision making. Her greatest strength comes from 'sensing the flow of things' and making adjustments accordingly. It is a natural instinct refined by experience, though she is still maturing. Especially when it comes to over committing and sunk cost, she is still having issues. She is overly competitive and desires praise, though the former has dulled somewhat after certain incidents during the War. Her inconsistent bossiness could be viewed as a flaw, or perhaps the starting point for a genuine leader. Regardless, it is fundamentally part of her nature to impose herself on 'Her World', which can lead to conflict with others. She had a very isolated and solipsistic childhood.

Despite being a Refined human there are countless barriers she cannot surpass. Some people are just naturally better at a particular thing- a product of their base ability, mentality, past, training, and so on. All the effort in the world can mean nothing without the right conditions for it to blossom. Instead, she has adopted the ideology of using someone who has talent in an area she lacks it.

Especially in regards to her combat ability, she is still a bit rusty like many others. The fact of the matter is, there have been years of peace and some of her edge has atrophied. It's a problem she sees within the Zern Military, and perhaps even the Empire itself. That being said, she is still a competitor for 'Ace of Aces' alongside certain others within the Empire. While she has good potential as a commander or officer, she is far too reckless. While 'leading' a squad, she is usually reliant on a good second in command to actually manage it.

Unknown to all except a handful, she has taken to having 'fits' ever since the Pirate War's start. The cause seems unknown, but it could possibly be a result of the beating aboard the Venue, or one of her many war injuries.

She is exceptionally popular to both normal Martians and the Military as a whole. Her actions against the Pirates situated in the Asteroid Belt during the Wars later stages earned her many titles from both the Emperor and Imperial Parliament. It also gave her an image as perhaps the planets foremost protector- to say nothing of the lineage on her Mothers side.

However that popularity swiftly ends when not accounting for 'actual' Martian citizens(Lunite and Venusian auxiliaries aside). Being one of the symbolic top dogs of Mars naturally makes her an enemy of those who oppose the Empire as a whole. While the hostility is far from bloody or open, she is directly opposed to certain. . . elements within the military, as well.

In general her record is as good as it can get, and is squeaky clean. Whatever you may say about her tendencies or overbearing nature, she's a legitimately pure person. Having a autocratic and insanely powerful Mother has its own merits and demerits, but regardless she likes to keep her distance.

Chosen Mobile Weapon

ZIMS-01 Redcoat Custom - "Companion"

ZIMS-01c Redcoat Custom

1st Generation General Purpose Mobile Suit

Repurposed Production|| Sheena Zern

Unit Appearance

With the reduction of its L-Type Titanium armor, the Companion as a whole has taken on a much more streamlined look. Even so it has a legitimately Knightly look to it- the Companions paintjob is an extremely light blue with pure white accents. It also uses a Frog-Mouth helm to protect the Redcoats very vulnerable head from the stresses of her style of combat. Occasionally a sensor will flash through the visor, giving it a menacing look that contrasts the Companions 'Shinning Knight' image. Its Nanocarbon shield is the same light blue with a pure white rose at its center, Sheena's personal household emblem.

Technical Details

Accommodation: Pilot Only, standard three-screen cockpit in torso
Dimensions: 18 Meters High
Powerplant: Medium-output Wilberforce Reactor
Equipment and Design Features:

•Modular Construction
While still a 'custom' design, the Companion is still fundamentally almost entirely made up of the same hardware found in mass production models. It still uses the simple and reliable Redcoat chassis at its core. Repairs are cheap and easy, simply drawing from the same parts used in common Mobile Suits. Additionally, it has been generally retrofitted to be more in line with modern advances, including its reactor. As one would expect it is also capable of making use of any equipment found on its normal counterparts.

•Limited Liten Armor
The Companion makes use of the same basic L-Type Titanium plating as the original Redcoat. Its presence on the Companion is more limited, operating off the premise its Nanocarbon shield is sufficient protection from a great deal of frontal assaults. As such, most of the Liten armor is focused around areas the shield can't as easily protect.

•Manual Override System
Nothing more than a basic software modification, this removes the limiters placed on a Mobile Suit. The increase in both speed and maneuverability is significant. It is also generally insane, as such limitations are installed for the pilots safety. Not even the hardy Venusian's use this modification, given how suicidal it is. Yet, the Princess' enhanced body can take it. Mostly. While not trivially engaged, Manual Override is something she frequently uses. Combined with her reckless tactics, she frequently returned from battle a bloody mess over the wars course. It also earned her a terrifying reputation when used alongside her modified WIG system.

•Triple Engine Boost System
The Companion has been fitted with a variant of the "Tommy Commander Type" backpack booster system. Modified to accommodate the Princess' wishes, the modified boost system focuses on sustainability. With a near constant increase in thruster power it even has the ability to sustain unassisted(albeit limited) flight within atmosphere. However the raw power found within the former 'Emergency Boost System' has been diminished to avoid overheating.

Weapons and Combat Capabilities

Handheld Armaments

•Collapsing Pike-Lance(W/Heckler 90mm Rifle)
A collapsing pike-lance fitted with a nanocarbon blade and a telescopic shaft made of plasteel. In its extended form its long reach makes it ideal for charges, thrusts, and various spear techniques. In its collapsed form it could be used like a hatchet or a tomahawk to slash and hack. It features a shortened Heckler 90mm Bullpup Rifle on its underside (with a thirty round magazine). Usually it is loaded with armor piercing rounds to shred enemies at close range- however this can lead to over penetration.

•Nanocarbon β Shield
Physically carried in hand by the Companion is a lightweight but fairly large Heater shield. Made of Nanocarbon Beta, it is impervious to all but the highest caliber Powder weapons. With the addition of kinetic dampeners and heat resistant coating, it can give a good account of itself against virtually any kind of attack. Though a shield, it is just a valid weapon as anything else within Sheena's arsenal and she uses it as such. It can be fixed onto her arm more sturdily with a magnet, but this limits its offensive uses.

Fixed Armaments

•WIG Tri-Missile Pod x2
The WIG is a self-contained wire guided missile launcher pod containing three missiles each. Two can be fitted to the flat tops of the Redcoat's shoulders. WIG missiles use a manual guidance system where the pilot can direct and correct their course while in flight, staying connected to the mobile suit via wires that uncoil from their launchers while in flight.

In Sheena's case, she does not use them offensively. Rather, she uses its HE munitions to propel her own Mobile Suit in various directions mid-combat. It is her iconic style that allows for unheard of burst maneuverability that even 'Emergency Boost' can't hope to match. It, however, is an insane maneuver even most Ace Pilots can't think to pull off, let alone survive.

•30mm Vulcan/Flashbang Launcher:
Built into one side of the Companion's head(opposite of its Lance hand) is a multi-barreled vulcan gun, capable of firing 30mm rounds in deafening sprays. Though not effective against mobile suit armor it can be used to shoot down incoming projectiles or for shredding smaller more lightly armored targets. On the other side of the Companion's head is a low-caliber automatic grenade launcher that fires flashbangs. This blinds the visual sensors of enemy mobile suits, useful for escape or combat itself.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Put simply, the Companion brings out the true potential and strengths of the Redcoat. Speed, agility, melee power, simple but hardy design, and ease of maintenance.

Unfortunately, its weakness' have been emphasized just the same. It is fundamentally not a well rounded unit, and moreover is simply too old- updates or not. In an era when so called 'Gundams' are threatening to put even the Tommy Commander into the dustbin, the Redcoat is counting hours, not days.

Sheena uses the Companion aggressively and without much regard to the damage she may take, let alone the unit. Practically anything on it can be replaced or repaired rather easily(An exception found within the shield, but not excessively so). There were failed attempts at installing an ejection system, but she ended up finding ways to weaponize it.

It also lacks heavy ordinance of any kind, and seriously lacks any sort of firepower beyond medium range. Even in the case of medium ranged combat, it's still a unit fundamentally designed for melee. This aligns with her thoughts on limiting collateral damage, but can leave her with some serious vulnerabilities. Of course, this is a moot point if she closes distance, which the Companion is designed to do.

Technical History

The Companion as a concept is purely just a modified Redcoat, updated through the years for Sheena's personal use. It cannot be limited to a specific line, model, or even individual Mobile Suit. It's closer to the concept of being 'the Redcoat she is using at the given time'. She has a few spares, and certainly has a salvage and repair crew on hand to recover whichever one shes using after a given combat. They tend to break, or get broken, depending on how you look at it.

Mobile Suit Gundam: LIFELINE

How the little pigs would grunt if they knew how the old boar suffers

The Lodestar

---

476 R.C║Zern Empire║Martian║Female

Physical Appearance

Still developing, Sheena is the image of youth. Standing at a comfortable 5'8", the first thing one notices are her soft yet striking amber eyes. The second would be the falcon-eyed look contained within them. Third, then, would be her long burnt orange hair- usually arrayed in a pony tail for convenience. In the rare instances in which she isn't wearing her pilot suit(not begrudgingly so), her athletic yet somehow amply ladylike form would become much more apparent. Certainly even in cases where the Princess is found wearing formal or casual wear, she still uses her pilot suits headpieces as a badge of honor. Her body betrays none of the stereotypical Martian 'weakness', outwardly or internally. Even discounting her physicality, there is a certain intense aura about her that is difficult for even enemies to deny.

Personality Traits:

-Decisive and Bold
-Competitive
-Instinctual
-Valiant
-Outrageous
-Keen

Biography:

To the Royal Family and public at large Princess Sheena Zern is the family "White Sheep"- and a front runner for Imperial succession. Yet just like anyone else, she has a lengthy past.

First born of the Emperor's second wife, Sheena is the Royal Families fourth child. That very second Empress is the so-called 'Red Rose of Mars', who traces her family lineage back to the flight from Earth. The families ancestor was one of the head scientists who managed the projects involving Genetic Manipulation and Terraforming, a tradition the family pursues even into the modern era. The union that led to Sheela was initially purely political, motivated by a need to placate one of the Imperial Families oldest and most powerful allies. However the Second Empress' enchanting beauty and stunning Rosarium was said to ignite passion within the Emperor, leading to genuine love.

Sheena was conceived shortly after. Leveraging that blooming passion, the Second Empress ensured her first child would receive the best genetic treatment conceivable. Perhaps because of this (or obsessive maternal love), Sheena was always who got the most of her Mothers attentions.

It is a well known fact that the Rose Empress was as protective as she was demanding. Aside from the rare play date, she had little interaction with many others aside from her parents and teachers, sibling or not. Pressure was something that she seemed to enjoy; or better put, excelled in spite of it. Through her time on Mars she indulged in many of the hobbies the Emperor encouraged within his children- often with great zeal.

There was little doubt in the Royal Family or elsewhere that she was and still is 'Daddies Girl'. Sheena was always closest to him, even more so than her Mother. However, that wasn't to say there weren't times when she displeased him. For example, there was an incident where she beat a servant boy to a practical pulp. The Emperor and Second Empress were appalled, and she was thoroughly disciplined by both separately for bullying a fellow Martian. It was surprising that such a well behaved girl would be so violent, but the situation became clearer after interviewing the boy. Apparently, he had been insulting the Rose Empress, and Sheena took extreme exception to that.

Quietly arrangements were made to send he and his family away from the Imperial Palace. It was good that his family had been given ample time to move, because tragedy nearly struck not a week later. Though the details aren't exceptionally clear, it seemed that Sheena had nearly drowned in one of the many scenic lakes surrounding the Royal Palace- likely during her swim practice. The very same servant boy she had beaten to a pulp was tending to a nearby hedge- hearing her shouts, he swam out and saved her life.

For months afterward(and leading up until his departure from the family estate), Sheena was taken with the concept of following the boy around. Sometimes she may order him around, sometimes she followed silently. Though she kept her distance, Sheena held a certain fascination for him.

While grateful for his actions, the overbearing Rose Empress refused to rescind the orders sending him away. She was simply too concerned over her daughters proper development, though his family received just compensation for their sons heroic actions. Not known to others, it was around this point that a growing rift began to form between Sheena and her mother- something that has never been mended at a personal level even today.

Still, the Fourth Princess' life continued just as it had. Starting at an early age she received an extremely thorough education suitable for a Princess. Because of her drive and growingly competitive nature, her parents deemed a military education was also appropriate. Though it was initially merely just instruction on the study of Old-Earth tactics and modern Martian doctrines, it evolved over time. Sheena was part of many military youth programs designed for those of blue blood. To her parents pride she even managed to become attached to Martian JROTC and ROTC programs despite such a young age.

The Princess entered the Deimos Academy roughly around the same time as a certain other Princess operating under a fake name. Unlike 'that' person, her experiences there were actually public. Despite her young age, she uncannily accepted military life like a glove. It was an environment she excelled in as naturally as one breathes. It was almost as though she was designed for it.

By the time of the Grand Ceremony on the Venue, Sheena was brimming with confidence and some measure of pride. Yet all that was shattered when the Butcher of Banzing nearly managed to bribe her way to power over the solar system. Sheena made an attempt at resistance. It led to being beat within an inch of her life- forced to watch as her Father bent the knee and nearly died in turn.

After Cathrida was shot shortly after, Sheena found new vigor. Ignoring her broken body she rallied alongside others, using the hangars Redcoats to fight off the Pirates. With the immediate crisis resolved, she immediately joined the military proper to extract her vengeance.

Though her body and mind had matured at a rapid pace, Sheena was still a child in a war zone. Her competitive nature and some choice missteps had gotten friends or allies killed, leaving a bad taste in her mouth. The trauma dulled her competitiveness with others, but certainly not her own innate desire to succeed and come out on top.

Not all her experiences with warfare were negative. The various skirmishes on and around the Dead Earth had fantastic views, and she particularly enjoyed the sunrise and sunsets.

Vengeance eventually gave way to joy as she developed a legitimate warrior's spirit. Only a fraction of the human population is mentally suited for the traumas and stress of warfare. She just so happened to be well within that bracket. She would participate heavily within the pirate conflict start to finish, building up a name and reputation worthy of her modern popularity. In particular, she was always someone who never asked others to do what she couldn't. This gave her the adoration of the common soldier and officer. However, it also led to a dangerous lifestyle where she frequently returned from battle as nothing more than a red mass.

When the war finally ended in the Zern Empire's total supremacy, she put down her sword. . . Mostly.

Aside from the periodic Pirate hunt and military duties, she turned her attention toward more civilian pursuits. Generally this has been used to create her own economic infrastructure, along with cementing her own popularity and image. The Princess has made forays into politics and the Imperial Parliament as well, becoming the Moderate factions 'face', as it were.

Her reasons for involving herself in business are simple. While its true that the Royal Family has a great deal of economic resources(and much more valuable clout) available to them, Sheena wanted a independent money stream. Moreover, it was something to apply herself too.

Her work includes selective sponsorship for products, investment and acquisition of businesses and a vigorous real estate empire built around the Asteroid Belt. At least part of her reason for coming to Venus has to do with expanding her acquisitions, certainly.

It can't go unsaid that nearly a year ago Sheena was rescued by a Terran boy during an attack on a Dead Earth pirate base. She claims that her position was overran by enemy reinforcements, leading to him heroicly defeating all pirates on his own.

So she claims, anyway.

The Princess' recent departure for Venus had many motivations- some personal, most official. In the post war period shes seen the military and society of Mars atrophy somewhat. She seems to have a desire to 'fix' 'things', as it were, and her natural conclusion to accomplishing that has been "Just become Empress". As it stands, her position on Mars is more than secured. Going beyond her own popularity and pull, the Rose Empress and various allies are championing her cause with great vigor.(And it needn't be said Sheena prefers to keep her distance from Mom).

Venus has the current attention of the military, along with all the very important infrastructure that follows. Given the instability and Royal Families tunnel vision of Mars, she basically has no competition for the moment. Coming to Venus was a power play with plenty of outward purity. After all, Princess Asallia needs someone there to ensure no one takes advantage of her very special kindness.

At a deeper level, there are swirling rumors of supposed 'Pickwick Papers' Sheena is compiling with express backing from the Emperor. Whatever they may be, certain elements of the Military have started to get a tad nervous. . .

Accompanying her to Venus is the Sovereign Military Order of the Olympian Snow Beetles, sent along by the Imperial Parliament for protection. A well known Elite Unit, they are made up of only the finest blue bloods within Martian Society. Each one could at the very least give an Ace a run for their money. They are spearheaded by the Three Acts Curtain, the groups most Elite squad. Each one is a bonifide Hero in their own right, and will be reporting to the Venusian Governor himself for the duration of their stay.

Certainly none of this is propaganda.

Skills and Abilities

Refined Human: Like most of her royal siblings, the quality of her bloodline is great. Her base attributes have all been enhanced, and she is highly resistant to disease and illness. In high stress situations it becomes possible to enter into a state of 'Overclocking', a staple of high quality blood. However, even among her family she can be considered an 'optimized human' whose genetic therapy was beyond excessive. Sheena's capacity to function as a Refined is fundamentally higher than her peers. Her physical development was rapid from an early age, but has since plateaued with incremental improvements after each therapy treatment. A gift from Mom.

Magnetism: Force of will. A form of 'Charisma', but not to inspire the masses or open up dialogues. Instead, this is the force of ones 'Gravity' and Will on the world around them. It also includes the natural instinct and capacity to choose the optimal course, but as a leader Sheena is still inexperienced. A gift from Dad.

Military Talent: Sheena has a long history with the military stretching back well into her childhood. She has extensive training backed by years of combat experience and her own special touch for warfare. During the pirate conflict she came close to surmounting the barrier that prevents one from going beyond even an Ace. She is often compared to the dark oddity of the Royal Family, the Wyvern- if he is a 'Black Hole', then she is a 'Shooting Star'.

Personal Items and Equipment

Nanocarbon Sabre: An almost ceremonial looking sword sometimes given to high ranking military officers. It is constructed of nanocarbon beta and is properly balanced for real combat, which Sheena actually uses it for. She prefers to use melee weapons in combat rather than heavier ordinance to reduce the chances of collateral damage- so it was a natural choice. A scabbard isn't usually included(its meant to be hung up on a wall), so she provided her own.

Nanocarbon Shield: An unfolding buckler given to her as a gift from a certain someone. Thin and lightweight, it is practically impervious to most small arms fire and melee attacks. The maker was even thoughtful enough to include kinetic dampeners. When not deployed it takes the form of a small watch like device on her off hand. Apparently she wants to find the designer and ask them to make some modifications so she can "Throw it at people and then call it back".

Basic sidearm: Modified and updated antique Lancaster pistol with a pepperbox design. It uses standard .38 revolver rounds and has four shots before it has to be reloaded. Even with her training, she can only ever hit targets at medium range. A gift from her Father for completing military training, but aside from being functional there is nothing special about it. Sheena rarely if ever uses it.

Pilot Suit: A sleek and modern looking suit for piloting a MS. It is reinforced with padding to reduce kinetic damage, along with some nanocarbon plating that protects the Princess from small arms fire. Sheena is almost always wearing one to show off her accomplishments. She enjoys legitimate praise.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Sheena is a woman guided by instinct who naturally excels at decision making. Her greatest strength comes from 'sensing the flow of things' and making adjustments accordingly. It is a natural instinct refined by experience, though she is still maturing. Especially when it comes to over committing and sunk cost, she is still having issues. She is overly competitive and desires praise, though the former has dulled somewhat after certain incidents during the War. Her inconsistent bossiness could be viewed as a flaw, or perhaps the starting point for a genuine leader. Regardless, it is fundamentally part of her nature to impose herself on 'Her World', which can lead to conflict with others. She had a very isolated and solipsistic childhood.

Despite being a Refined human there are countless barriers she cannot surpass. Some people are just naturally better at a particular thing- a product of their base ability, mentality, past, training, and so on. All the effort in the world can mean nothing without the right conditions for it to blossom. Instead, she has adopted the ideology of using someone who has talent in an area she lacks it.

Especially in regards to her combat ability, she is still a bit rusty like many others. The fact of the matter is, there have been years of peace and some of her edge has atrophied. It's a problem she sees within the Zern Military, and perhaps even the Empire itself. That being said, she is still a competitor for 'Ace of Aces' alongside certain others within the Empire. While she has good potential as a commander or officer, she is far too reckless. While 'leading' a squad, she is usually reliant on a good second in command to actually manage it.

Unknown to all except a handful, she has taken to having 'fits' ever since the Pirate War's start. The cause seems unknown, but it could possibly be a result of the beating aboard the Venue, or one of her many war injuries.

She is exceptionally popular to both normal Martians and the Military as a whole. Her actions against the Pirates situated in the Asteroid Belt during the Wars later stages earned her many titles from both the Emperor and Imperial Parliament. It also gave her an image as perhaps the planets foremost protector- to say nothing of the lineage on her Mothers side.

However that popularity swiftly ends when not accounting for 'actual' Martian citizens(Lunite and Venusian auxiliaries aside). Being one of the symbolic top dogs of Mars naturally makes her an enemy of those who oppose the Empire as a whole. While the hostility is far from bloody or open, she is directly opposed to certain. . . elements within the military, as well.

In general her record is as good as it can get, and is squeaky clean. Whatever you may say about her tendencies or overbearing nature, she's a legitimately pure person. Having a autocratic and insanely powerful Mother has its own merits and demerits, but regardless she likes to keep her distance.

Chosen Mobile Weapon

ZIMS-01 Redcoat Custom - "Companion"

ZIMS-01c Redcoat Custom

1st Generation General Purpose Mobile Suit

Repurposed Production|| Sheena Zern

Unit Appearance

With the reduction of its L-Type Titanium armor, the Companion as a whole has taken on a much more streamlined look. Even so it has a legitimately Knightly look to it- the Companions paintjob is an extremely light blue with pure white accents. It also uses a Frog-Mouth helm to protect the Redcoats very vulnerable head from the stresses of her style of combat. Occasionally a sensor will flash through the visor, giving it a menacing look that contrasts the Companions 'Shinning Knight' image. Its Nanocarbon shield is the same light blue with a pure white rose at its center, Sheena's personal household emblem.

Technical Details

Accommodation: Pilot Only, standard three-screen cockpit in torso
Dimensions: 18 Meters High
Powerplant: Medium-output Wilberforce Reactor
Equipment and Design Features:

•Modular Construction
While still a 'custom' design, the Companion is still fundamentally almost entirely made up of the same hardware found in mass production models. It still uses the simple and reliable Redcoat chassis at its core. Repairs are cheap and easy, simply drawing from the same parts used in common Mobile Suits. Additionally, it has been generally retrofitted to be more in line with modern advances, including its reactor. As one would expect it is also capable of making use of any equipment found on its normal counterparts.

•Limited Liten Armor
The Companion makes use of the same basic L-Type Titanium plating as the original Redcoat. Its presence on the Companion is more limited, operating off the premise its Nanocarbon shield is sufficient protection from a great deal of frontal assaults. As such, most of the Liten armor is focused around areas the shield can't as easily protect.

•Manual Override System
Nothing more than a basic software modification, this removes the limiters placed on a Mobile Suit. The increase in both speed and maneuverability is significant. It is also generally insane, as such limitations are installed for the pilots safety. Not even the hardy Venusian's use this modification, given how suicidal it is. Yet, the Princess' enhanced body can take it. Mostly. While not trivially engaged, Manual Override is something she frequently uses. Combined with her reckless tactics, she frequently returned from battle a bloody mess over the wars course. It also earned her a terrifying reputation when used alongside her modified WIG system.

•Triple Engine Boost System
The Companion has been fitted with a variant of the "Tommy Commander Type" backpack booster system. Modified to accommodate the Princess' wishes, the modified boost system focuses on sustainability. With a near constant increase in thruster power it even has the ability to sustain unassisted(albeit limited) flight within atmosphere. However the raw power found within the former 'Emergency Boost System' has been diminished to avoid overheating.

Weapons and Combat Capabilities

Handheld Armaments

•Collapsing Pike-Lance(W/Heckler 90mm Rifle)
A collapsing pike-lance fitted with a nanocarbon blade and a telescopic shaft made of plasteel. In its extended form its long reach makes it ideal for charges, thrusts, and various spear techniques. In its collapsed form it could be used like a hatchet or a tomahawk to slash and hack. It features a shortened Heckler 90mm Bullpup Rifle on its underside (with a thirty round magazine). Usually it is loaded with armor piercing rounds to shred enemies at close range- however this can lead to over penetration.

•Nanocarbon β Shield
Physically carried in hand by the Companion is a lightweight but fairly large Heater shield. Made of Nanocarbon Beta, it is impervious to all but the highest caliber Powder weapons. With the addition of kinetic dampeners and heat resistant coating, it can give a good account of itself against virtually any kind of attack. Though a shield, it is just a valid weapon as anything else within Sheena's arsenal and she uses it as such. It can be fixed onto her arm more sturdily with a magnet, but this limits its offensive uses.

Fixed Armaments

•WIG Tri-Missile Pod x2
The WIG is a self-contained wire guided missile launcher pod containing three missiles each. Two can be fitted to the flat tops of the Redcoat's shoulders. WIG missiles use a manual guidance system where the pilot can direct and correct their course while in flight, staying connected to the mobile suit via wires that uncoil from their launchers while in flight.

In Sheena's case, she does not use them offensively. Rather, she uses its HE munitions to propel her own Mobile Suit in various directions mid-combat. It is her iconic style that allows for unheard of burst maneuverability that even 'Emergency Boost' can't hope to match. It, however, is an insane maneuver even most Ace Pilots can't think to pull off, let alone survive.

•30mm Vulcan/Flashbang Launcher:
Built into one side of the Companion's head(opposite of its Lance hand) is a multi-barreled vulcan gun, capable of firing 30mm rounds in deafening sprays. Though not effective against mobile suit armor it can be used to shoot down incoming projectiles or for shredding smaller more lightly armored targets. On the other side of the Companion's head is a low-caliber automatic grenade launcher that fires flashbangs. This blinds the visual sensors of enemy mobile suits, useful for escape or combat itself.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Put simply, the Companion brings out the true potential and strengths of the Redcoat. Speed, agility, melee power, simple but hardy design, and ease of maintenance.

Unfortunately, its weakness' have been emphasized just the same. It is fundamentally not a well rounded unit, and moreover is simply too old- updates or not. In an era when so called 'Gundams' are threatening to put even the Tommy Commander into the dustbin, the Redcoat is counting hours, not days.

Sheena uses the Companion aggressively and without much regard to the damage she may take, let alone the unit. Practically anything on it can be replaced or repaired rather easily(An exception found within the shield, but not excessively so). There were failed attempts at installing an ejection system, but she ended up finding ways to weaponize it.

It also lacks heavy ordinance of any kind, and seriously lacks any sort of firepower beyond medium range. Even in the case of medium ranged combat, it's still a unit fundamentally designed for melee. This aligns with her thoughts on limiting collateral damage, but can leave her with some serious vulnerabilities. Of course, this is a moot point if she closes distance, which the Companion is designed to do.

Technical History

The Companion as a concept is purely just a modified Redcoat, updated through the years for Sheena's personal use. It cannot be limited to a specific line, model, or even individual Mobile Suit. It's closer to the concept of being 'the Redcoat she is using at the given time'. She has a few spares, and certainly has a salvage and repair crew on hand to recover whichever one shes using after a given combat. They tend to break, or get broken, depending on how you look at it.