Description: The Bolshoy Palace plaza in St. Petersburg is the sight of a battle of epic proportions! Why does Zero have a mustache, wasn't that the other one? Since when is Maxima a cowboy? Does Shenwoo even care? Probably not! Alliances, betrayals, shameless double teaming, all can be found within topped off by a surprising twist ending! (Draw Match)
The Bolshoy Palace of Russia's fine city, St. Petersburg, is truly one of the finer sights in a country that has gone to the wayside in recent years. Standing impeccably as one of many palaces erected by the ordor of Peter the Great, it is a beautiful and splendorous locale for any occasion -- even if that occasion just so happens to be another grandiose fight for Geese Howard's Saturday Night Fight.
The camera crew has set up some time ago, encircling a patch of lovely green grass surrounding the series of fountains decorated in the shape of various animals, especially fish. The palace itself might be beautiful, but today, the weather is not quite up to par with the scenery; black clouds loom in the sky above, encroaching and overtaking the bright glow of the sun as they begin to threaten rain with the heralding sounds of thunder. It might seem ominous. But then, it just makes it all the more appealing to all those who will be watching this fight on their television sets. Even if, for those involved here today, it might seem a touch--
"Oho... the sky is rather frightening, isn't it?" Zero speaks with unusual warmness as he looks up to the sky above, eyes squinting as he shields his face with a single hand -- perhaps an odd gesture, given the sun has already been blotted out. He is dressed in something different from NESTS standard attire, and, not only that, looks nothing like what anyone in NESTS or formerly in NESTS would recognize him as; his hair brown instead of white, his skin noticeably shades whiter, his face looking entirely different than it should... with the addition of a simple, brown mustache just above his mouth. Dressed in a vaguely militaristic, dark gray coat, dark pants and black boots, Zero seems quite content to wait for his other opponents; and while he may feel nothing more for this than an opportunity to gain more data on potential test subjects, all his face shows is a big, hearty grin.
"This should prove to be very interesting! Haha!"
Of course, Shenwoo has never even heard of NESTS - or if he did, it was years ago when he fought Foxy, perhaps, and is long since forgotten - much less would he have the vaguest idea who 'Zero' even is. Just some guy, so far as the brawler from Shanghai is concerned. The other opponent on the card, 'Maxima' is equally a mystery... Couple of people with funny names, to Shen. Dressed as usual in an unbuttoned silk shirt and black leather pants, the brawler seems largely unconcerned by the inclement weather, as he makes his way over to the designated area for this particular fight, stepping casually over a barrier with his long legs, and taking a moment to tug his gloves tight.
"Hah," the tall, lean blond man laughs as his dark eyes look over at the disguised-but-nevertheless-taller-than-him Zero, holding up an index finger. "That makes one of you. So where's the other poor chump they want me to beat the crap out of, huh?" He's certainly confident, isn't he? But if he wasn't, he would hardly have named himself 'The God of Battle'. "I just hope you two are any good... I really hate being bored."
Well, Maxima knew all too well what NESTS was! He also knew that When you're a fugitive from them, appearing in a highly visible and public event like a Saturday Night Fight may not be the best idea even with the potential awards on the line.
At least, not without a disguise it isn't!
You can blame a Clint Eastwood marathon being that most watchable thing on Motel 6 TV one night as the source of the inspiration for this one, too. Although he can't do much to hide his hulking frame, a get-up defined by denims, a cowboy hat, a conveniently face-obscuring banadana and a pair of old-stlye roughed up boots should hopefully be enough to keep any agents that could be monitoring this stuff from recognizing him. Well, that and a pretty impeccably imitated accent as well, gotta love that cybernetic voicebox. Might be a better idea to use an assumed name next time though..maybe just shorten it to Max or something, nothing suspiscious about that!
Regardless, he'll be the last to arrive, pegging Zero for no one he'd know of and hopefully getting the same treatment. Shenwoo, likewise, is unknown to the cyborg, despite having pummeled a mutual acquaintance several days earlier.
"Well, looks like this hoedown is ready to get started!" He'll blurt out in a stereotypical drawl, pulling his hat down while settling into a wide-berthed, lower stance, "Now, I reckon this here spot ain't big enough for the three of us, so why don't we just buckle down and let with the fist flying until we've got it down to just one?"
So, they're all here. For a long moment, Zero deigns not to look at either of his fellow combatants, instead opting to look upwards towards the sky above them. Thoughtfully squinting, his grin begins to fade into a smile as dark eyes lower to look at the crowds of people surrounding them, and then finally, towards the first opponent to arrive. Shenwoo. Of course, even if they've never formally met and, even if Shenwoo doesn't know about NESTS -- much like many people around the world -- Zero knows well enough about the self-proclaimed 'God of Battle.' His active participation in all manners of tournaments have given Zero the information he needs on the Shanghai berserker, and so, as the other man speaks, Zero just raises brown brows and smiles thoughtfully. "Oh? So do I! So I certainly hope not to bore you, Mr. God of Battle. These old bones of mine should still have some strength in them, I think!"
A bright, easy laugh later, and finally does the third fighter come. Zero only offers a brief glance, lifting a single eyebrow almost incredulously at the sight of the man. "Hmm. Well, that's an interesting costume, isn't it?" But it seems they're all here, and it seems they're all ready. Over the boom of a microphone, the announcer says one word, and one word alone:
"FIGHT!"
And that's all he needs to hear. "Aah, I suppose we should start, then! Try to keep up, hm?" In one, fluid movement, Zero surges forward, shoving forth a single hand with a brief 'harumph!' of effort. In that same instant, an invisible pillar of force BURSTS across the distance between himself and Maxima, seeking to crash into the other man and send the large 'cowboy' straight off his feet.
COMBATSYS: Zero has started a fight here.
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Zero 0/-------/-------|
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo has joined the fight here.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Zero
COMBATSYS: Maxima has joined the fight here.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-------|-------\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/-------|
Meanwhile, Shenwoo settles into his usual casual boxing stance, leaning back a bit and leading with his right fist. The 'cowboy' gets a weird look from the lean young fighter, but whatever, right? The important thing is that the guy can keep up with the fight, not how he chooses to dress... It's not like Shen's usual associates are known for dressing like normal people. Much less the Shanghai fighter himself! But then, there's the call of 'FIGHT!', which makes a grin spread across Shen's face, a wolfish, feral expression in anticipation of the fun times to be had. And immediately, Zero's doing... Something weird to Maxima.
Since that affect Shen himself so very little, he'll just do something else.
Breaking into a run towards Zero, he decides to put the other man's comment about his old bones to the test, rearing back with his left fist in mid-run, which suddenly turns into a /lunge/ as he seems to almost slide along the ground, his left fist thrown forward in a mighty rushing pounch. "GRAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!"
COMBATSYS: Zero successfully hits Maxima with Shikka Koujin.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-------|===----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/-----==|
Yes well, the outfit may be a little outdated..but hey, the more obscure the better, right? Or something like that. Anyways, the fight begins and Maxima has before him the arduous task of deciding who to go after first! Neither of the fighters are in his memory banks and he has no real idea of what they're capabilities and fighting styles are like save for what he conjecture from their physical builds. Like his last fight, it looks like he'll mostly have to be strategizing on the fly, which suits him just fine!
And right about then one of them goes and decides to make the decision for them. The energy Zero projects is indeed invisible..to most eyes, that is. Maxima's internal scanners however are able to detect the flux in energy and see that the attack is much more than it might seem, adjusting accoringly. Quickly, he'll set one foot back and cross both arms out in front of him..
..Just in time to get completely blown off his feet by the impact. He saw it coming, yes, but wasn't able get a very good gauge on either the power -or- speed of the blasted thing. It was just a little too fast for his tech to pick up on..or possibly a glitch, you never knew with these things. Regardless, he may have a taken a good hit, but he's far from down and out. "Not bad, feller!" He'll shout out as he gets to his feet, adjusting the hat that mirculously avoided being blown off, "Why don't you try one of mine on for size?! HRAAAAHH!" Running forward with burst of speed, the large 'cowboy' will lead in with powerful fist towards Zero's face, hopefully complementing the third fighter's own attack.
COMBATSYS: Zero blocks Maxima's Strong Punch.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-------|===----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/-----==|
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo successfully hits Zero with Gekiken.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|===----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
Aah, would you look at that. A moment is allowed for Zero to look momentarily satisfied at the success of his attack, bring his hand down to his side in the aftermath and clenching it easily into a fist. His left hand presses against the small of his back, giving a simple roll of his neck in preparation for what's to come... which is, apparently, an attack from both opponents.
He's not unprepared for this, however; in fact, as Maxima comes, he's quite swift to take care of the other man's attack, lifting a single hand to intercept the large man's equally large fist with an almost unnatural ease. The full force of the punch is stopped by Zero's palm, and for Maxima's effort... the brown-haired old man doesn't even do so much as budge. "Aha, that stung--"
What he's NOT prepared for, however, is the speed at which Shenwoo moves. Taken by surprise, Zero is struck squarely in the chest from the other man's punch, sent staggering back several steps as he shakes his head. Fast, that Shenwoo is. He'll have to keep that in mind.
For now, though, Zero takes it upon himself to test the limits of the Shanghai Brawler's skills. Moving /in/ shortly after the brawler strikes, he rotates his body around fluidly, lurching forward as a single, booted heel LANCES upward in an attempt to catch Shenwoo in the jaw with a mighty, and surprisingly fast thrust. "Hmph!"
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo Toughs Out Zero's Light Kick!!
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|===----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/---====|
Taking a turning step after the Gekiken, Shenwoo gets his footing back as quickly as he can, still grinning that manic grin. "C'mon!!" he demands somewhat nonsensically - and, for the moment, Maxima is forgotten about as the berserker gets a bit of tunnel vision, focusing his attention on Zero. Especially since Zero is attacking him right back, aiming to kick him in the face. Indeed, the booted heel strikes the brawler's jaw, but it doesn't do a thing to quell is grin... Nor does he budge back the slightest bit, either. Weird.
"Not bad," Shen says, consideringly. "LET ME SHOW YOU HOW IT'S DONE!!" He attacks as quickly as he can, trying to get his hits in before Zero can recover from that heel-kick, lifting one leg for a powerful kick of his own aimed at the taller man's midsection... And if he hits that, Shenwoo throws his entire weight forward in an overbalancing, overhead punch, intended to knock Zero flat on the ground. "HAHAHA!!"
Maxima's fist is..well, stopped cold in it's tracks for the most part, briefly giving the Canadian fighter cause to re-evaluate his course in actions. Whoever this guy was, he was plenty strong to be able to do that and not even seem terribly hurt in the process! That's okay though, seeing as this was just the warm-up. Yes siree, this Canadian Cyborg Cowboy was just getting started!
He'll employ a change of tactics then, in that despite Zero being his closest target, he makes the 'God of Fighting' intended victim of his next move! Hoping to catch him off-guard mid attack, the large fighter makes a beeline towards him in a slightly surprising burst of speed, seeking to ensnare his chinese opponent with both arms, "Upsy daisy, now!"
If successful, Shenwoo will find himself victim to a rather remarkable suplex as Maxima bends up, over and nearly entirely backwards to hopefully slam the man right down on his head with the full force of his upper torso.
COMBATSYS: Zero blocks Shenwoo's Fusen Kyaku.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-----==|==-----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
Unfortunately for Shenwoo -- it seems that Zero isn't QUITE as slow to recover as he might hope. In fact, despite the impressive show of power that Shenwoo performs by taking the whole of his attack without so much as flinching, the NESTS VP is unperturbed. Rather, his leg snaps /back/ almost as soon as it connects, feeling the noteworthy lack of resistance or even movement on the part of the berserker.
The first, kicking strike from the brawler is intercepted with a single hand, allowing Zero ample opportunity in which to respond to the second, stronger attack coming by way of that punch. Whatever Shenwoo's intentions, it seems that his strike is intercepted with a single, powerful arm, allowing Zero to break a brief grin towards the 'God of Battle.' "Impressive!"
Yet there's nothing to show that Zero is harmed by the strikes. Instead, as Maxima rushes in, Zero takes the opportunity to leap back and /away/ from the pair, letting the two deal with each other for the moment as he, in turn, takes a moment to analyze his opponents, considering with thoughtful, brown eyes.
COMBATSYS: Zero focuses on his next action.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-----==|==-----\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
COMBATSYS: Maxima successfully hits Shenwoo with Dangerous Arch.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/-======|====---\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
"Pff.. Hahaha," Shenwoo laughs a little, rather than showing any irritation at Zero handling his attacks like that. Honestly, how dull would it be if he was able to run roughshod over the other fighter? ...Of course, this is where it becomes clear that Shen shouldn't be so focused on a single opponent, as he's suddenly caught by Maxima. "What the f--" he starts to say, when he's cut off by being helluva suplexed, which kind of hurts, you know? As he's released, Shen somehow turns 'flopping over' into a roll to get back to his feet, likely through sheer determination, muttering "Stop that!!"
Once he does have his feet beneath him, then Shenwoo rushes right at Maxima this time, apparently leaving Zero to do whatever he's doing unmolested; seemingly inspired by Maxima's own attack, the brawler tries to get behind the 'cowboy' and catch him by the waist for a suplex of his own. It is, however, quite rough and unpracticed, but it should be pretty funny if it works! ...At least, funny to /Shenwoo/... "TRY IT YOURSELF!"
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo successfully hits Maxima with Strong Throw.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|=======\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
Zero is, for now, mostly out of sight and mind save for on occasional eye darted towards the other fighter to ensure he doesn't try to surprise him with anything. As his suplex goes off without a hitch, the cyborg allows himself a satisfied grin underneath that bandana that lasts about as long as it takes Shenwoo the time to recover and counter with a throw of his own.
Being a big guy had its disadvantages in close quarters, among them being that the brawler can't really manuever himself out of the way before the Chinaman gets a grip. Sloppy as the throw is compared to his own, it still manages to work and lands the man forcefully on his back, briefly knocking the wind out of him.
Still, he's quick to roll away and stand, putting some good distance between both fighters and himself. After an initial scuffle, seems like they were taking a bit of time to lick their wounds, or just get a breather in before jumping back into the fray. Maxima isn't exactly the kind who needs breathers, but a moment spared to direct some additional resources to his automated repair systems certainly doesn't hut, affording them a brief boost in ther effectiveness.
COMBATSYS: Maxima gains composure.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|======-\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/--=====|
And so it seems Zero's gambit is relatively effective. Attention is drawn from him and instead, the two fighters focus on each other -- giving Zero time to observe the painful-looking exchange between both of the powerful fighters. There is information there to be tucked away for later, from both reactions and attacks on the part of both of the combatants, but it's something to be saved for later. For now... his analysis is complete.
Considering the two between his gaze, Zero brings his ultimate focus upon Maxima, considering him with narrowed brown eyes as a pleasant smile crosses his lips. He may be taking a break to recover, but Zero is just jumping into the fray once again -- and focusing his attentions entirely upon the supposed cowboy.
Zero's attack, for the most part, is one that might not be noticed right off the bat; the shadows around Zero glow an unnatural color before they begin to literally stretch out, flying across the ground and seeking out Maxima. Those shadows will literally crawl up his legs to hold him down, small, icy 'hands' gripping onto him and burning at the same time just as Zero comes flying in, intent on landing a series of punches and kicks into the large man's body, following up with one single, mighty uppercut to his jaw the moment those shadowy arms detach. Silent, and all with a kindly smile.
Aw, where's Maxima going?! Shenwoo hops back up to his feet as the 'cowboy' rolls away, turning around to face his opponents just in time to see Zero go /right after/ the third guy, suddenly remembering that he was even there in the first place. "...Huh," says the blond man as crazy shadows try to grab Maxima, but succeed or fail, Shen himself /does/ need to do something, doesn't he? So whatever happens to Maxima, well, the berserker himself runs on in, reaching out with one hand...
For Zero's shoulder. If he manages to get a grip, then he'll just whirl the taller man around as best he can, and then yank forward... While lunging forward headfirst at the 'kindly older fighter', grinning that wolfish grin of his even as he aims to headbutt the bejeezus right out of him. "HI THERE, REMEMBER ME?!" Oh Shen, you so wacky.
COMBATSYS: Zero successfully hits Maxima with Mabukousou.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 0/-------/=======|
Honestly, a guy can't even take a break anymore without some trying to pound his face in! Well, really, that was to be expected when you were in a pitched fight. He sees Zero coming anyways, and is prepared meet him head on when...huh?! Suddenly, he couldn't seem to move. Systems scramble to determine if anything is wrong in the interior, something seized up somewhere, but everything comes up negative. What in the world was this guy doing?
Not that Maxima has the time to ponder it for too long as he's beseiged with a relentless physical assault by Zero, who has the audacity to part with little more than a smile when all is said done. "Ugh...bastard.." The cyborg briefly mutters in his normal voice, left reeling and clutching at his abdoment from the attack. Okay, this was all officially no longer anything to laugh about. Time take off the gloves.
As Shenwoo comes in with his unorthodox attack, Maxima makes with one of his own, charging in with a powerful blow aimed at Zero's side. And that's not all either, should it connect! A powerful burst of unseen force (In actuality highly compressed air) would be released at the moment of impact, hopefully wiping the smug grin off this guy's face!
COMBATSYS: Zero blocks Maxima's Vapour Cannon.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 1/-------/=======|
COMBATSYS: Zero counters Strong Punch from Shenwoo with Forcefield.
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Shenwoo 1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 1/------=/=======|
There's something distinct in the way that Maxima attacks. Zero never forgets the things he sees, especially those things he has a personal hand in making and overseeing. The technique that follows from Maxima's mighty fist, although rather simply intercepted with a single, comparatively smaller palm from Zero, is no less recognizable; if only for the sudden outrush of high-speed, high-powered air from the man's fist. A single brow lifts, yet despite it, Zero gives no direct indication of the fact that he recognizes the assault beyond a simple, "... hum, how interesting!"
Still, that smile --not smug so much as it is pleasant and kindly -- is still on his face the moment that Shenwoo comes crashing in with his head lunged forward like a battering ram. "Ho?" Brown eyes rotate, to look at the approaching fighter. He's going to be double teamed again, eh? Well... no matter. Shenwoo comes in, head swinging down--
And making a resounding -=BWOONG=- noise as it impacts a wall of invisible force approximately a foot away from Shenwoo.
"Gahaha! Of course I remember you, Mr. God of Battle!"
And only a moment afterwards, violet chi crackles outward from that shield of power Shenwoo just hit, to literally electrocute him and send him reeling back and away.
...Ow. That really wasn't expected at all, least of all by Shenwoo himself. The wall of force stings, but all the more so when it zaps him, and it does indeed send him reeling backwards, looking more surprised than actually hurt. What the hell? "Heh... Cute trick," the brawler says, his surprised expression disappearing behind the return of that wide, wolfish grin. But who knows what that 'cowboy' is up to, quite aside from the mysterious tricks Zero is demonstrating. This confluence events causes something /very unusual/ to happen.
Shenwoo doesn't immediately advance again, heedless of any danger. Instead, the blond fighter stands a bit more casually than usual, and he actually /bides his time/, dark eyes looking between Zero and Maxima curiously. Today is a red letter day, because the 'God of Battle' is actually stopping to think things through. Will wonders never cease?
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo focuses on his next action.
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Shenwoo 1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 1/------=/=======|
Damn, even the vapour cannon didn't seem to phase him that much! Just who was this guy? Although that move had probably been a little too well-known in some circles to use out in the open like this, Maxima couldn't deny he'd really wanted to stick ito the guy, which was unusual for him. It was something about him..the cyborg couldn't put his finger on it. Shenwoo was just another fighter to him, but this other guy just -bugged- him and he wasn't sure why. Maybe it was his damn smile or the way he seemed to be able deflect almost everything either of them could throw at him, but there was something he didn't like, he knew that much.
Likewise, the canadian fighter will hang back and seem to consider his options for the moment, which unlike Shenwoo is not an usual course for him decide on. He's actually giving heavy scrutiny towards Zero, his scanners working over time, throughly analyzing everything the man has done so far in his fight an extracting what it could about him from related results on various different wavelength. Just who was this guy..?
COMBATSYS: Maxima focuses on his next action.
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Shenwoo 1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 1/------=/=======|
So... it seems like everyone is falling back this time around, hm? Zero just looks with a sort of non-chalance between his fellow opponents as they decide to fall back, the wall of force beside him fading away as he looks good-naturedly towards the sky. Attacked by them both twice, he looks at both Shenwoo, and then Maxima. Will they go for each other this time around, or attack him yet again? The older man looks thoughtful for a moment, scratching his chin as dark brown eyes narrow in thought. "Hum, it seems we're all taking a little break? Aah, good then! I could use a moment to rest these old bones!"
And Zero... doesn't attack. Instead, he hangs towards the back once more, catching his breath and allowing his stamina to regain itself. Whatever might unnerve Maxima about Zero, it seems he'll have to wait a little while longer before seeing any more of it. The disguised NESTS executive doesn't particularly feel like attacking either opponent at the moment -- and so instead, he takes this moment to rest and recover from some meager wounds.
COMBATSYS: Zero gains composure.
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Shenwoo 1/------=/=======|=======\=------\1 Maxima
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Zero 1/-------/=======|
Old bones? Shenwoo is, honestly, suspecting otherwise. Of course, it just figures that the other fighters here aren't what they seem to be at all, now doesn't it? Shen, on the other hand, wears his nature openly... Though most people probably wouldn't expect him to be as fast as he is. Shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head in a 'what can you do?' gesture, he glances over at Maxima with a grin, and then jerks his head towards Zero. If the old man wants to take a break, then why shouldn't the two younger fighters bring it to him? He's clearly able to handle it.
Whether or not Maxima gets the hint, Shenwoo starts walking slowly towards Zero, watching the disguised NESTS executive, picking his moment carefully... Before suddenly he springs forward again in another rushing lunge, rearing back his left fist. This time, though, it's vastly speedier than before, Shen's figure blurring, difficult to follow with the human eye or even electronic means, before he throws his fist forward in that rushing punch once again; a shockwave of energy rides on his fist though, enveloping him completely as he tries to punch Zero right in the face with it, using that remarkable speed and his full weight and strength to best effect! "SHYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!"
Oh, Maxima gets it. And while Shenwoo can't see it, the cyborg is grinning ear to ear under that bandanna. Sure, lets give this guy and his 'old bones' an few extra pushes towards the ground if they could help it! He sees Shenwoo's plan of attack and aims to complement, meaning that if he hits successfully he'll be there to catch the grinning bastard, and if not he'll be upon him to try and see if his own tactics have a better shot.
In either case, the result would be the same. Holding the other fighter in a powerful grip, the canuck cowboy will fling him into the air with all his strength, which is..well, quite a bit. It doesn't end there though, with the brawl bending down, bracing his muscles and rising up with seemingly hydraulic force to -pound- the man back up into the air with nearly as much force as before. Then he'll do it again, and -again-. The third time would be the last, letting him fly off to the side, discarded and hopefully feeling some actual hurt for once.
Of course, that's if all goes to plan.
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo successfully hits Zero with Zetsu! Gekiken.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 1/----===/=======|
COMBATSYS: Zero endures Maxima's Maxima Revenger.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Maxima
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Zero 2/<<<<<<</<<<<<<<|
He's hit twice. That's about all there is to it. For the third time in the free-for-all match, Zero is struck twice by the two individuals, and this time slightly harder than before. At least, Maxima's. Shenwoo's, though fast, doesn't seem to do all that much to Zero beyond sending him staggering back from the resulting impact of that fist against his face. One step, and then another, and then Zero just stops, grinning and rubbing his chin. It seems like the assault has amounted to a sting at the most. "Hmmm. Well, that was quite fast, wasn't it?"
--But, that's not it. Apparently for some god unknown reason, Maxima attacks him as well, again, and what does Zero do? He just takes the full brunt of the assault, struck into the air over and over again. Yet, as Maxima does this, Zero nurses a strange, white spark in his hand, almost completely disregarding the beating being delivered upon him. Is he out of this fight? Of course he is. But that doesn't mean he won't give them a parting gift.
As soon as he goes flying, right when he lands, that white glow in his hand has absorbed almost all the warmth in the entire area. A deathly chill settles from all around them, before Zero lands on a single knee, opening his fingers and allowing that spark lift... and then /explode/ outward. The result is a terrible, black vortex sprouting from Zero's hand, looking for all intents and purposes to be a black hole of sorts. Encased by a corona of violent, swirling energy. Violet electricity crackles from within the portal that Zero has summoned forth, as at the same time, same, though smaller 'gateways' appear from all around Shenwoo and Maxima. From them pour forth a virtual armada of strange, black orbs, swirling with white and blue power within them. THey speed outward with almost some semblence of intelligence, seeking to expose Maxima and Shenwoo to a massive barrage of power as they smash into them repeatedly, over and over as they fly towards the massive black hole in Zero's hand.
Afterwards, regardless of outcome, Zero falls to his knees. He's done for this match.
COMBATSYS: Zero can no longer fight.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|=------\-------\0 Maxima
COMBATSYS: Zero successfully hits Shenwoo with Hakura Messhou.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|=------\-------\0 Maxima
That definitely doesn't look like something Shenwoo wants to be caught in, you know? Not in the least little bit in fact! But though he tries to get out of the way of the black vortex, he's caught by it, battered by the barrage of attacks that follow inside that black hole of energy... It's actually not the worst beating Shen's ever taken, but at the moment it feels pretty close. Once it finally collapses, and Zero does too, the Shanghai-born brawler is left to push himself back up, slowly getting to his feet, breathing quite raggedly. "Kh... Crazy old man," the blond says, and pardon him while he catches his breath, watching Maxima warily... Who knows what that attack might've done to Cowboy Guy?
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo gains composure.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/--=====|=------\-------\0 Maxima
COMBATSYS: Zero successfully hits Maxima with Hakura Messhou.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/--=====|======-\-------\0 Maxima
The cowboy doesn't fare much better! As elated as he was to have put that guy down, it instantly fades to wariness as leaves them with one parting retaliation, and frankly? He can't even -begin- to figure what the hell it is, or how to even defend against it. He'll try to block, but it seems to do no good as the cyborg is relentlessly hammered by the disturbing attack. Ugh, why did he keep getting matched up against people with strange, undocumented powers?!
Regardless, that seems to be the end of Zero as far as this fight was concerned, but it still wasn't over. Maxima himself will allow for a brief repreive as the other fighter does, allowing each time to catch their breath and recuperate before they try to finish the fight. He'll cast an eye towards the other fighter at the time...huh, seems it messed him up at least as bad! An equalizer, if nothing else.
COMBATSYS: Maxima gains composure.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/--=====|=====--\-------\0 Maxima
In a way, it's a relief to see that Maxima's still up too. After all, it'd be boring to have won like that, just being the last one standing after Zero blew the whole place up. Having caught his breath, Shenwoo straightens up into his casual boxing stance again, giving his head a shake before he grins once more. That's better. "Ready to lose?" he wonders of Maxima, grinding his back foot against the ground underneath for a moment. All better, all ready to go.
So once again, Shenwoo charges forward at Maxima, and when he gets in close to the larger fighter he ducks and weaves a little bit, faking out with a few punches before going for his real one... A quick, short-range punch to the gut, each feinting attack delivered with a taunting sound, the real one accompanied with a: "RIGHT THERE!!"
COMBATSYS: Maxima endures Shenwoo's Quick Punch.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/--=====|======-\-------\0 Maxima
Similarly, Maxima is also glad to see Zero's little surprise didn't decide the fight entirely. Shrugging, he'll fall back into his wide-birthed fighting stance, tipping his hat, "Hell if I know. Are you?"
When the God of Fighting comes, the cyborg seems prepared for him. He sees through all of those feints somehow, not even attempting to react towards, but instead prepares for the real blow he knows is just around the corner. And yet, when it actually comes he doesn't seem to really -do- anything, beyond clecnhing his abdominals and absorbing the hit as best he can, which seems to be pretty well!
"Not bad at all.." He mutters, "Now try this on for size!" A large hand shoots right out, aiming to grab Shenwoo's face. If he does, the larger will simply lift the other man clear into the air with sheer strength alone, and with the same strength SLAM him straight into the ground. That oughtta put him down, he thinks.
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo dodges Maxima's Bulldog Press.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/--=====|=====--\-------\0 Maxima
"That's the thing, won't be me losing!" Shenwoo replies confidently, and he seems prepared to back up his statement, here. The hand that reaches for his face passes through... A flickering after-image of the brawler as he takes a twisting step back out of range, giving Maxima no satisfaction in the area of 'smashing Shenwoo really hard into the ground'. Instead, the blond fighter keeps right on grinning. "Too slow, buddy!"
Suddenly, Shenwoo lunges forward again, his hand going right for Maxima's throat. If he can get a grip there, then it's his turn to lift the larger fighter off the ground with pure physical strength, leather creaking as his hand tightens around the 'cowboy''s esophagus, intent on choking the air right out of him. Even cyborgs gotta breathe, right? After a few seconds of that, though, he just tosses Maxima to the ground, roughly. "ORA ORA!!"
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo successfully hits Maxima with Kyakuten Touchi.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|=======\-------\1 Maxima
Damn, it seemed Shenwoo was a little faster than Maxima had anticipated for! Well, no matter, he could still work that into his strategy, although he realized he was just about in his last legs.
Case in point, when the Chinese fighter lunges the Canadian finds himself unprepared to react and is then appropriately lifted, choked for a moment and dropped to the ground. Ugh, surprisingly strong, too! Especially considering that Maxima weighed even more than he looked like he would. But still not down, still not out...not yet!
His recovery will be a quick one, as he charges forward for Shenwoo, throwing a heavy punch that, while may be difficult to connect, will give him a nice leg-up if it does. Worth the risk, he decided.
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo endures Maxima's Strong Punch.
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Shenwoo 1/----===/=======|=======\-------\1 Maxima
When Maxima gets back up and throws that punch, Shenwoo doesn't do what most people might expect... Which is to say, try to dodge it. Instead, he stands his ground, letting it hit him good and solidly, his dark eyes gleaming with an almost mad light. "Ha ha ha ha ha!!!" he laughs aloud, a harsh, barking sound. "This is fun, isn't it?!" Shenwoo demands, moving to attack again before Maxima can properly recover from that heavy attack.
Exactly what does Shenwoo do? Well, he lunges forward with a powerful headbutt, trying to connect his forehead with Maxima's face, with a loud roar. If he catches the cybernetic Canadian with that, then he launches into a short combination of body blows, finishing the whole thing off with a nasty uppercut delivered to the underside of the fake cowboy's jaw. "HA HA HA HA HA!!!"
COMBATSYS: Maxima endures Shenwoo's Kohyou Rengeki.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|=======\===----\1 Maxima
"Sure is!" Maxima will respond, though he's not having -quite- as much of crazy good time as Shenwoo seems to be, particularly after he just got nailed in the face. Regardless, the other fighter will indeed catch the cyborg right in the face with his headbutt before the larger man could appropriately recover, the savage beatdown that follows completely overwhelming even Maxima's comprehensive seld repairs, putting him only moments away from shutdown to conserve energy. Looks like he couldn't hope decisively win this, but he just -might- be able to take the other fighter out with him.
Rather than get hit by that nasty uppercut, he'll lean back and make an attemp to grab Shenwoo's arm as he make the strike. "How about you an me and me go for a mosey, pardner?" He'll say if successful, launching himself skywards with a power boost from both his legs and thet rocket boosters housed within them when they activate.
The trip up certainly won't be pleasant, but it's the on the way down where the real action happens. Flipping upside down, Maxima will activate those same boosters again, yanking his human cargo out in front of him and hurling both of them into the ground at insane speeds, "YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAAWWWWWWW!"
The impact will certainly shake the surrounding area, and Maxima himself will have shut down, though he'd seemed knocked out from the force of his own self-inflicted blow. But what of Shenwoo?! Did he somehow shore up a defense in time, or did he just dodge it at the beginning like a jerk?!
COMBATSYS: Maxima can no longer fight.
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Shenwoo 0/-------/------=|
COMBATSYS: Maxima successfully hits Shenwoo with Bunker Buster.
[ <
Shenwoo 0/-------/=======|
Unexpected!! As it happens, Shenwoo /does indeed/ try to dodge it at the beginning like a jerk, but he's not quite fast enough. Maybe it's because he's so battered and tired from the fight itself, but whatever the reason is... Maxima's attack traps him, and he's lifted up and crashed down in a most painful manner, bouncing once after hitting the ground. "Pfft..." he chuckles. "Ha ha ha ha ha..." Yes, he's laughing, of all the crazy damn things he could be doing right now.
And Shenwoo keeps right on laughing, until he actually passes out from the damage, unable to get back up after that attack; which means there's only one possible result to this match, a DKO between Shenwoo and Maxima!
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo takes no action.
COMBATSYS: Shenwoo can no longer fight.
Log created on 18:52:42 05/06/2007 by Maxima, and last modified on 08:15:26 05/12/2007.