Netbattles and Chill

The relaxed ranging across the snowy wilderness didn't last very long, for CourseMan, before he encountered more viral infestations. He skidded to a curving halt as another Basher showed up, and briefly glanced upward. There really was something odd going on with those artillery viruses. He had to wonder where they were coming from.

“Is that more? Jeeze... That prog wasn't wrong about the bounty thing and those Basher ones.” Jenny sounded relaxed but engaged and Courser nodded, content. More were showing up as his eyes flicked about, and several things caught his attention more or less at once.

“It is strange. They're not just a resident population, either. Something is clearly sending them in en masse. If we're lucky we might find out what, if I keep searching. For now, be ready Jen... We've got another interesting customer here.” He was looking now at the much larger virus, its treads spinning over the snow and dangerous-looking weapon-arms presented. “Another Meta, if I'm not missing my guess. See what you can learn about it while I deal with the rest.”

Courser didn't want to waste any more time being vulnerable while the viruses sorted themselves out; Jenny's quick affirmative reached him as he kicked off the snow and began moving again. Even as he let his form shimmer and split, one set of eyes was fixed on the half-buried green glint not far away. Given the viruses about, that would need some caution.

One courser split to his left, edging back southward and making one gesture with a free hand as he did; the familiar shroud of mist lifted from the snow and frost, obscuring his shape. At the same time, the second Courser, edging ever so slightly north instead, reached out and snapped his fingers; a similar mist of frost and ice formed a swirl in the air that covered over the data crystal.

The real Courser, to the south, kept his focus mostly on the RapidFire, but he grinned at it, then winked, just in case its sensors could pick that up. A moment late, his form shifted again, from faintly obscured by mist, to deep, inky blue that was dark and almost translucent. A moment later it wold be hard to tell where he was at all, beyond a dark shape amidst the snow.

More pools of shadow appeared about the field, dotting it as his decoy continued to make small hand motions and finger snaps in a calm way. Not too far from the Basher, black water rose up and took shape, solidifying into rather different artillery turret; the newly formed Needler immediately began to spin in place with a rev and roar of internal turbines as it sprayed needles out across the field. Most seemed to be aimed either at the nearby Basher, the puck-spitting virus, or the dangerous meta-virus.

Closer to the CourseMan clone, a smaller pool of shadow and dark waters gave rise to the same shovel-wielding mole from earlier. As well his dashing little coat, the mole was also wearing a stylish metal helmet with a sleek design and a visor that seemed to complete cover his eyes. Nevertheless it looked up and tilted its head towards the clone, who chuckled.

“Soon. For now, take care of the puck-spitter, then see what you can do to get the big guy's attention. Help will follow.” The mole gave a non and ducked below the ground again; it burrowed under the ground and attempted to surprise the hockey virus with a shovel to whatever passed for the creature's backside.

As this exchange took place, courser himself rolled his shoulders, getting used to the new intangible fluidity of pushing himself almost entirely into the shadow. There was something comforting about it, but it was also a strain to maintain for too long without coming up for air, so to speak. He closed his eyes and let his body weave back an forth as he focused.

Where initially, the dark shadow of his form had been fluid and cool, he now began to shimmer like an out of place heat mirage and the edges of the snow began to melt slightly as he stepped on it. As hard as it was to see beneath the veil of shadow, the overall colour tone of his outfit shifted dramatically as well, from dark, inky blue to rich, deep reds instead. A sleek metal helmet fitted itself over his eyes, complete with back and neck guards, as well as razor-sharp winglets leading back and up from just above the ears, to give the piece a streamlined profile. As his own vision blacked out, Courser felt a sense of subtle relief; he could still see through the eyes of his clone, but there was no longer a split in his vision. Instead, he had a subtle background sense of the land and creatures about him; he couldn't see, not exactly, but he was aware and it would be comfortable enough to fight like this. Perhaps even easier than before. He could begin to see what MeleeMan must have been thinking. Maybe.

Beneath his rich crimson jacket, his undershirt was also replaced by a combat shroud, much like the one Damascus wore, though unlike hers, Courser's revealed a very healthy amount of his well-toned chest. He bounced back and forth on his toes one more time, feeling the shadows shift around him and flexed once. His gloves had been replaced now with full metal knuckle guards, connected to and reinforced by wrist bracers; he made a couple of quick jabs, then smirked. Time to get down to it.

“Right boys! Let's bust some tail!” He turned, finding the nearest virus, then lifted one fist and gripped with it. As his fist closed, it took the hilt of a long, thin katana, honed to a whisper-splitting edge. The blade curved slightly, and it glinted against the snow as he crouched low and turned his wrist over, holding the weapon back-handed. In a sudden lunge, Courser darted towards the Dharma, bringing the blade across in a broad slice; the motion flowed into a twist of his body as he turned around behind the virus to bring the blade.

“You should have known better than to pick a fight with real warrior.” The crimson shadow that was Courser growled at the Dharma; the words were like a mutter, but proclaimed loudly enough for most anyone close by to hear. A moment later, he was darting forward again. This time, the dark shade bled across the field to meet the Basher instead.

“I could take all of you at once. Come on, weaklings!” He flourished the katana as he drew close, but instead of striking, it was his other hand that whipped around in a low, deceptive slice; this one was bearing a second blade, smaller, but made of rushing, swirling water that hissed and steamed in his grip. As he struck at it, his eyes went again to the RapidFire; he was going to have to make good on that challenge; his little allies weren't going to be able to handle it on their own.

-=Summary=-

C*) First Barrier (Start with 30Hp Barrier)
C*) Shadow: Edging north and being wary; no obviously aggressive behaviour.
C*) Fast Barrier (30Hp Barrier on GMD)
C1) Murky deception (Shadow, self, 2 rounds, Self-Slow2 (1 round, 2 instances))
C2) Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C (80Hp Object: 40null, x2 Hits, x3 Targets, A) RapidFire, Basher, Dharma
C3) MomograHP: 60
Damage: 15 + Backstab
Accuracy: B
Description: Creats a Momogra virus to aid you. Attacks with a shovel from behind, and has a constant Mole status that ignores terrain solidness when not attacking (unless the panel currently does not exist). Still affected by other effects of panels.
Element: Null
Special: Allied Virus: This virus has two actions per turn, and is fully controllable by the summoner. If no orders are given, it will perform actions at random, but will never intentionally interfere with or damage the summoner or their allies. Deleting this virus will grant no additional rewards to either side.
Trader Rank: C (15, Backstab, B). Attacking Dharma
C4) MeleeCross, lvl 1 (Fire/Melee: Melee Mastery, Bash)
C5) Katana1Damage: (60 + Slashing + Wide Attack) Then (60 + Slashing + Long Attack)
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a long metal blade with exceptional cutting speed. Hits with a wide slash, then a long slash in the span of a single action, hitting 3 and 2 targets, respectively. Only one target can be hit with both slashes. Rare
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 2 uses.
Element: Null
Trader Rank: C ((60, Slashing, Wide) Then (60, Slashing, Long), B) Dharma
C6) AquaKnifeDamage: 60 + Slashing
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a sword imbued with water energy, with a blade comparible to a large knife. Hits one target per slash.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Trader Rank: D (60Aqua, Slashing, B) Basher

Battle beginning and Courseman quick on his feet to begin summoning his barriers, one quickly shimmering up around his body without a second thought, as his clones split off from the whole that was the navi, he quickly wrapped the GMD in a protective bubble of energy to prevent it's imminent destruction, be it from the viruses or some of his own accidental attacks. The viruses would strike shortly thereafter...but not before Couseman managing to turn himself to the shadows, incorporeal form slowly moving back and forth as the Elemperor snorted out a blast of flames, the navi just barely having acted in time to avoid the damage from the blast itself...unfortunately, quickly replaced the Snow beneath his feet were immediately given a hotfoot that would pierce the form he had become, a light burn coming up as time went on.

The Dharma would quickly get in on this action, it's body twirling about as it knocked a puck out from beneath it's body, quick to reform it as it had aimed towards the navi himself, missing entirely as the puck rebounded once...twice...and disappearing having hit absolutely nothing from it's attack. Courseman capitalized on his incorporeal form, summoning his trusty gun platform from the ether to attack the targets from it's vantage point...unfortunately, despite his form, the lava burned beneath his feet for a minor amount of damage (5), as the gun platform rounded about and fired off it's twin needles, one missing the RapidFire as the other hit...into it's newly formed fire aura, the twin needles blasting hard into the Dharma (40x2) and, thankfully due to it practically up the ass of it, both hitting the Basher with little difficulty (40x2). The Metavirus, nonplussed at the attempt on it's life, took up arms against the navi, gun platform and his clones, quickly sending out a quadruple blast of energy towards the shadow that split off from the navi, all four shots penetrating and destroying the shadow outright without a second thought, a mechanical beeping emanating from the meta at it's displeasure. The Dharma, angry at the navi, launched another puck...this time...to be a dick...at the GMD...and it's puck not only missed, but dropped into the missing panel.

Summoning another ally to his side and getting another instance of hotfoot (5), the Momogora summoned to his side of the field in attack mode got to work, smashing it's shovel upon the back of the virus' body (15) and deleting it immediately upon contact. Right afterwards, angered by it's ally's deletion, another blast of flames would flood across the navi's body...nothing at all to be done for it as it did nothing to him or the ground beneath him. But before the viruses could properly attack him...he changed. Crossing into the gruff, rough and tough Meleeman, he could finally ignore that heat. The worst the lava did to his tootsies now was a hot water-like heat, not painful, but not exactly comfortable. A clacking of metal and heavy weaponry from afar, the Basher finally had it's chance, the two arms loaded up with energy and ammo finally, it began to fire upon the field indiscriminately...anything that was or was not Courseman-alligned had a hail of fire blasted upon them, shotgun shells falling out of it's arms as pellets blasted against the GMD (10) and his Needler (10x2), the navi himself completely unphased as the pellets phased through his body.

Sword in hand, Courseman rushed forwards at his target, though that the Dharma was dead, he would rush directly at the Elemperor. A flourish of blades cutting through the virus with utmost haste...and somehow, the gruffer Courseman had missed entirely even as he put the full power of his blade and being into it, his shadow, however, having much better luck as it immediately cut down the Basher (120!) and ended it's potential reign on the battlefield. The Meta, however, was very much angry. Throwing down it's gun and making a move to get in line with Courseman, it opened up a hole in it's chest. A blast of hellishly hot flames flooding down the field towards Courseman...the fires burning up ice and snow in such a way, all it left behind was a cracked, brittle paneling. Flooding through the field, it blasted through Courseman...and the GMD, which thanks to the protective bubble around it, survived. The field was being broken up quickly...and Courseman's functional invincibility against the virus' attacks was running out. The Elemperor would smirk at Courseman for the time being...it seemed to be deriving it's life off of the panel it stood on, the boiling lava soothing it.

-- Viruses --
ElemperorElemperor (Elmperor)

Elemperor viruses are Planeswalker viruses: their attacks and abilities all depend on the terrain they stand upon. Pay attention to the special sections of their stat sheets, as those will tell you what types of terrain must be present for an Elemperor to appear (this terrain requirement naturally overrides the Network's terrain selection). All Elemperor are immune to any adverse terrain effects... except damage multiplication, of course. They attack every action they are able to.

Area: Beach, Sharo, Yumland, Netfrica, NetVegas

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 15 (Elemental Rage) + Small Rage Terrain Change + Ground Attack
Attack Accuracy: A
Attack Description: Fires a magic flare that changes the ground beneath the enemy's feet.
Element: Null
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): ElementFlare, ElementalRage1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Always appears on Lava Terrain.
- Gains Regen 50 when on any terrain but Normal.
- If this virus is on Normal Terrain, its attack power is halved.
- Attacks assume the element of the terrain this virus sits on, and attacks create more terrain of the same type.: 100 HP (Lava) (South-West of the field, near the bottom-left corner)
DharmaDharma (Dharma)

Dharma move and dodge at average speed. Their puck attacks rebound off of the edges of the battlefield as if there were an invisible wall there. They can rebound up to 3 times before finally passing off of the field or dissipating into thin air. The pucks pass through anything they hit except boundary walls, terrain, and friendly viruses. The pucks can not damage other Dharmas. This virus cannot attack while moving.

Area: Yoka, Netopia, Sharo, NetVegas

HP: 90
Attack Damage/Effect: 15 Null + Break + Piercing + Rebound(3) + Ground Attack
Attack Accuracy: E
Attack Description: Throws a Hockey puck at the enemy. Break.
Element: None
Possible Rewards (Per virus): AirHockey1, Zenny: KA-BONK
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: SLASHED
RapidFire V2RapidFire V2 (RapidFire)

RapidFires are a combination of the Megalian-F, Cirkill, and OldStove viruses. They look like a Cirkill painted red with two arms instead of one. The virus is orbited by four flaming red option bits that assist it in attacking. The virus itself attacks close range opponents with flamethrowers, while the option bits launch volleys of fireballs at more distant targets or dash at enemies.... sometimes both.

Area: All

HP: 380
Element: Fire

Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire + Seeking x 4 Shots
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Bits launch a volley of fireballs at the enemy.

Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Fire + Break + Piercing
Secondary Attack Accuracy: B
Secondary Attack Description: Sends a flaming Bit flying ahead in a line. The bit may be attacked to damage the virus when executing this attack.

Tertiary Attack Damage/Effect: 30 Fire + Line Attack(3) + Panel Cracking
Tertiary Attack Accuracy: B
Tertiary Attack Description: Use Flamethrower on enemies that get too close.

Special: This virus has a 60 HP FireAura that regenerates at the end of every turn.
Special: This virus may attack while moving or dodging.

Possible Rewards (Per Virus): CircleGun1, FireAura1, Barrier, FireBurn1, AuraHead1, Zenny: 380 HP (60 HP Fire Aura) (Snow) (Roughly in line with Courseman, in the bottom-right corner)

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 90 HP (30 HP Barrier) (Shadow 1 turn left) ( Katana1Damage: (60 + Slashing + Wide Attack) Then (60 + Slashing + Long Attack)
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a long metal blade with exceptional cutting speed. Hits with a wide slash, then a long slash in the span of a single action, hitting 3 and 2 targets, respectively. Only one target can be hit with both slashes. Rare
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 2 uses.
Element: Null
Trader Rank: C: 1 Use) ( AquaKnifeDamage: 60 + Slashing
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a sword imbued with water energy, with a blade comparible to a large knife. Hits one target per slash.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Trader Rank: D: 5 uses) (Melee-Cross: Fire/Melee override, Melee Mastery, Bash) (Cracked) (Diagonally to the left of Basher's remains) (Self-Slow x2)
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 80 HP (Ice) (Behind the Basher remains)
MomograHP: 60
Damage: 15 + Backstab
Accuracy: B
Description: Creats a Momogra virus to aid you. Attacks with a shovel from behind, and has a constant Mole status that ignores terrain solidness when not attacking (unless the panel currently does not exist). Still affected by other effects of panels.
Element: Null
Special: Allied Virus: This virus has two actions per turn, and is fully controllable by the summoner. If no orders are given, it will perform actions at random, but will never intentionally interfere with or damage the summoner or their allies. Deleting this virus will grant no additional rewards to either side.
Trader Rank: C: 60 HP (Ice) (Near the deleted Dharma's remains)

-- Terrain --
Roughly a 5x6 sized battlefield
5% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Exact middle of the field)
30% Snow

• Non-Aqua Elementals get -10% Evasion and reduced movement speed.
• Wind attacks: +100% Source Damage. Imbue Aqua if Null. Change terrain hit to Ice for 1 turn after turn hit, then back to Snow.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Ice, generate Frosty Mist: -10% Accuracy for Non-Aqua Elementals, +10% evasion against Non-Aqua Elementals, Freeze1 effect for any Aqua or Wind attacks.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Checkerboard pattern between the ice, alternating)
30% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(checkerboard pattern between the snow, alternating)
10% Lava

• Non-Fire Elementals lose 5 HP/action standing, 10 HP/action submerged. Doubled for Wood Elementals, nullified for Fire Elementals.
• Aqua attacks: Panel explodes, +100% Source Aqua Damage, change terrain hit to Normal.
• PanelShot: Imbue Fire.

(Under Elemperor and where Courseman was at)
25% Cracked

• Changes to Broken when stepped on, chance to fall in when triggered.
• Burrow: Change terrain to Broken, Null 50 to burrower.
• Panel Crack attacks, >100 Damage Break/Impact/Drop attacks: Change terrain hit to Broken.
• PanelShot: Splash1.

(In a rough line going diagonally-left through the field)

-- Objects --
GMD: 15 HP (Near the Missing spot of terrain, in front of Basher) (Cracked)

While he finished up the Basher, Courser noted the way the RapidFire's barrier was behaving; it had sprung up on first contact, but the damage had immediately bounced back and restored again. An aura, then and one that was irksomely strong. He stood back from his latest deletion and looked back at the Elemperor that had dared to remain alive.

“Hmph. That one was just a warning shot. Yeah. To show you how strong I am. This time it's the real thing!” He crouched low again, coat flaring before he darted back towards the annoying lamp. As he did, the shimmering field of hazy mirage swirled up and covered the mystery data a second time, heralded only by a quick sideways glance from the shadow-wreathed figure.

Just before he reached the virus, Courser jumped and twisted in the air, slamming the blade around in a wide arc that lingered on the lead in then snapped across almost too quick to follow as his body's momentum added to the swing of his arm; the already whisper thin blade was barely there at all while the incorporeal shadows clung, but its presence wold be enough to cleave the virus into pieces, provided he could actually hit the thing. His second stroke came in overhead, but as Courser swung the blade down and connected with the lava on the ground, the blade itself cracked and shattered, leaving only a rough-edged hilt with a few inches of blade protruding.

“Huh. That's what I get for using swords. This weapon is useless. I don't need a worthless tool like that to take you out!” Half talking to his previous target, and half to the other remaining virus, Courser tossed the hilt over his shoulder, then stood straight and turned about, pointing one finger in overly dramatic fashion at the Rapidfire. Not too far from him, the needler turret realigned itself and fired a quick volley of spines, hopefully cleaning up any remaining lamps that might have happened to be rude enough to avoid Courser's own attacks. A pair of shots also tried to pin down the Rapidfire, before the turret spun in place once and revved its engine loudly. Courser stopped and turned to it with a frown.

“Can it, you! I got this. I've got all of this. No back-chat when this guy is on the job!” He thumbed at his own chest. During this exchange, the momogra zipped back around behind the RapidFire and tried to smack it from behind; it wouldn't get through the meta's powerful aura, but if it was lucky the virus might still spend some of its attention avoiding the attack.

“Right! Enough of this! Just you and me, pal!” Courser stanced up, sliding his feet apart and squaring into a more overtly martial pose. His fist clenched around the hilt of the water blade that was still in his grip, but he sneered at it then slammed his knuckles together in front of him. Both fists began to frost with ice, sharp shards coating his hands and part way up his arms as the solid gauntlets pushed their way out of the shadows covering him. steam hissed and water dripped from them, but more frost layered itself on top again just as quickly while courser's crimson shadow grinned.

“Come on then! Show me what you're made of! Show me how you fight a real man! Show me your Soul!” With a final roar, Courser dashed in close, moving to strike first with one frozen fist, then the next. His foe was bigger than him, and evasive as well, but Courser wove and feinted with it, staying on the virus as his fists lashed out again and again; whenever he managed to connect, there was enough raw force and impact to drive the metavirus back, but he was always right on it again, one rising upper leading into the next back-fist, leading into a juke around to the other side and a solid, low drive punch, before leaping towards it for a final, devastating helm-breaker. for all his macho talk, there was a fluid grace and a sure, well-balanced artistry to his attacks. Showmanship only took you so far; the rest had to come from raw skill. In between his rapid assault, small splashes of water danced up over his shoulders and behind him, complimenting the motions of his body; the shadowy form washed away, though the refreshing splashes soothed the small burns he'd taken earlier.

Courser finished his first flurry of blows and paused for a moment, weaving left and right with a casual confidence, fists up.

“You think you got what it takes? Because take it from me, pal... you don't. Hmph.” He watched the meta carefully for any further signs of resistance.

-=Summary=-

C*) Fast Barrier (30Hp Barrier on GMD)
C1) Katana1Damage: (60 + Slashing + Wide Attack) Then (60 + Slashing + Long Attack)
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a long metal blade with exceptional cutting speed. Hits with a wide slash, then a long slash in the span of a single action, hitting 3 and 2 targets, respectively. Only one target can be hit with both slashes. Rare
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 2 uses.
Element: Null
Trader Rank: C ((60, Slashing, Wide) Then (60, Slashing, Long), B) Elemperor (Katana Broken)
C*) Needler: (40, x 2 Hits, A) Elemperor, RapidFire
C*) Momogra: (15, Backstab, B) RapidFire
C2) ColdPunchDamage: 70 + Impact + Knockback
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a large icy fist for the user to punch with. Anything it hits is knocked back a sizable distance, even objects.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Special: Ice Type: This chip counts as Ice Type for the purposes of potentially freezing targets on Aqua Element Terrain or environments, as applicable.
Trader Rank: D (70Aqua, Ice Type, Impact, Knockback, A) RapidFire
C3) ColdPunchDamage: 70 + Impact + Knockback
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a large icy fist for the user to punch with. Anything it hits is knocked back a sizable distance, even objects.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Special: Ice Type: This chip counts as Ice Type for the purposes of potentially freezing targets on Aqua Element Terrain or environments, as applicable.
Trader Rank: D (70Aqua, Ice Type, Impact, Knockback, A) RapidFire
C4) Wave Refresh: (30 Healing)
C5) ColdPunchDamage: 70 + Impact + Knockback
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a large icy fist for the user to punch with. Anything it hits is knocked back a sizable distance, even objects.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Special: Ice Type: This chip counts as Ice Type for the purposes of potentially freezing targets on Aqua Element Terrain or environments, as applicable.
Trader Rank: D (70Aqua, Ice Type, Impact, Knockback, A) RapidFire
C6) ColdPunchDamage: 70 + Impact + Knockback
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a large icy fist for the user to punch with. Anything it hits is knocked back a sizable distance, even objects.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Special: Ice Type: This chip counts as Ice Type for the purposes of potentially freezing targets on Aqua Element Terrain or environments, as applicable.
Trader Rank: D (70Aqua, Ice Type, Impact, Knockback, A) RapidFire

Rushing the Elemperor as soon as he re-protected the GMD that was practically next to him, the navi rushed towards the turban wearing lamp, slashing through it's hide once...and then twice...sending shards of ceramic all across the field in front of him, as well as small bits of lava that fizzled out immediately upon touching the icy field (60x2). The Meta virus was immediately fired upon, all three hits fizzling out against the aura as they all connected, the Momogra's shovel looking more like a hunk of melted metal than anything else afterwards. The Rapidfire would bring it's gun up as it turned to the Needler that managed to hit it thrice so far. A single beep from it's eye as it fired a quartet of firey blasts towards the summoned help, fireballs striking the poor thing twice across it's body as it showed off (10x2). Courseman, of course, quickly closed the gap as his help was attacked. A fist being sent out against the annoying thing, it tried to evade the attack...and instead got struck. It's aura immediately crippling beneath the frosty fist, striking it square on the chest (140+Freeze!), it's chest encased in ice as the snow beneath it triggered, melting to slush, as a second one missed, going just to the side as the navi took a quick break to heal himself (+30) in the interim. The virus began to freak out, clicking it's gun, running all sorts of diagnostics to find a way out of this...moving backwards to try and evade the navi...only for a third strike to further ice it up...and dent it even further with an imprint of Courseman's fist, knuckles and all (140+Freeze!) as the final fist...ripped the virus all across it's torso, sending the thing spiraling to the ground with a final hit (140+Freeze!), battle won...Courseman could begin to collect his rewards. Chip data intermixed with the zenny and bugfrags that had been scattered about...now what to do about that GMD?

-- Viruses --
ElemperorElemperor (Elmperor)

Elemperor viruses are Planeswalker viruses: their attacks and abilities all depend on the terrain they stand upon. Pay attention to the special sections of their stat sheets, as those will tell you what types of terrain must be present for an Elemperor to appear (this terrain requirement naturally overrides the Network's terrain selection). All Elemperor are immune to any adverse terrain effects... except damage multiplication, of course. They attack every action they are able to.

Area: Beach, Sharo, Yumland, Netfrica, NetVegas

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 15 (Elemental Rage) + Small Rage Terrain Change + Ground Attack
Attack Accuracy: A
Attack Description: Fires a magic flare that changes the ground beneath the enemy's feet.
Element: Null
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): ElementFlare, ElementalRage1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Always appears on Lava Terrain.
- Gains Regen 50 when on any terrain but Normal.
- If this virus is on Normal Terrain, its attack power is halved.
- Attacks assume the element of the terrain this virus sits on, and attacks create more terrain of the same type.: Slice and Dice'd
DharmaDharma (Dharma)

Dharma move and dodge at average speed. Their puck attacks rebound off of the edges of the battlefield as if there were an invisible wall there. They can rebound up to 3 times before finally passing off of the field or dissipating into thin air. The pucks pass through anything they hit except boundary walls, terrain, and friendly viruses. The pucks can not damage other Dharmas. This virus cannot attack while moving.

Area: Yoka, Netopia, Sharo, NetVegas

HP: 90
Attack Damage/Effect: 15 Null + Break + Piercing + Rebound(3) + Ground Attack
Attack Accuracy: E
Attack Description: Throws a Hockey puck at the enemy. Break.
Element: None
Possible Rewards (Per virus): AirHockey1, Zenny: KA-BONK
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: SLASHED
RapidFire V2RapidFire V2 (RapidFire)

RapidFires are a combination of the Megalian-F, Cirkill, and OldStove viruses. They look like a Cirkill painted red with two arms instead of one. The virus is orbited by four flaming red option bits that assist it in attacking. The virus itself attacks close range opponents with flamethrowers, while the option bits launch volleys of fireballs at more distant targets or dash at enemies.... sometimes both.

Area: All

HP: 380
Element: Fire

Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire + Seeking x 4 Shots
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Bits launch a volley of fireballs at the enemy.

Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Fire + Break + Piercing
Secondary Attack Accuracy: B
Secondary Attack Description: Sends a flaming Bit flying ahead in a line. The bit may be attacked to damage the virus when executing this attack.

Tertiary Attack Damage/Effect: 30 Fire + Line Attack(3) + Panel Cracking
Tertiary Attack Accuracy: B
Tertiary Attack Description: Use Flamethrower on enemies that get too close.

Special: This virus has a 60 HP FireAura that regenerates at the end of every turn.
Special: This virus may attack while moving or dodging.

Possible Rewards (Per Virus): CircleGun1, FireAura1, Barrier, FireBurn1, AuraHead1, Zenny: Frozen and disected!

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 90 HP (30 HP Barrier) (Shadow 1 turn left) ( AquaKnifeDamage: 60 + Slashing
Accuracy: B
Description: Creates a sword imbued with water energy, with a blade comparible to a large knife. Hits one target per slash.
Duration: Until Overridden/Broken. Breaks automatically after 6 swings.
Element: Aqua
Trader Rank: D: 5 uses) (Melee-Cross: Fire/Melee override, Melee Mastery, Bash) (Cracked) (Diagonally to the left of Basher's remains) (Self-Slow x2)
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 60 HP (Ice) (Behind the Basher remains)
MomograHP: 60
Damage: 15 + Backstab
Accuracy: B
Description: Creats a Momogra virus to aid you. Attacks with a shovel from behind, and has a constant Mole status that ignores terrain solidness when not attacking (unless the panel currently does not exist). Still affected by other effects of panels.
Element: Null
Special: Allied Virus: This virus has two actions per turn, and is fully controllable by the summoner. If no orders are given, it will perform actions at random, but will never intentionally interfere with or damage the summoner or their allies. Deleting this virus will grant no additional rewards to either side.
Trader Rank: C: 60 HP (Ice) (Near the deleted Dharma's remains)

-- Terrain --
Roughly a 5x6 sized battlefield
5% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Exact middle of the field)
30% Snow

• Non-Aqua Elementals get -10% Evasion and reduced movement speed.
• Wind attacks: +100% Source Damage. Imbue Aqua if Null. Change terrain hit to Ice for 1 turn after turn hit, then back to Snow.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Ice, generate Frosty Mist: -10% Accuracy for Non-Aqua Elementals, +10% evasion against Non-Aqua Elementals, Freeze1 effect for any Aqua or Wind attacks.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Checkerboard pattern between the ice, alternating)
30% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(checkerboard pattern between the snow, alternating)
10% Lava

• Non-Fire Elementals lose 5 HP/action standing, 10 HP/action submerged. Doubled for Wood Elementals, nullified for Fire Elementals.
• Aqua attacks: Panel explodes, +100% Source Aqua Damage, change terrain hit to Normal.
• PanelShot: Imbue Fire.

(Under Elemperor and where Courseman was at)
25% Cracked

• Changes to Broken when stepped on, chance to fall in when triggered.
• Burrow: Change terrain to Broken, Null 50 to burrower.
• Panel Crack attacks, >100 Damage Break/Impact/Drop attacks: Change terrain hit to Broken.
• PanelShot: Splash1.

(In a rough line going diagonally-left through the field)

-- Objects --
GMD: 15 HP (30 HP Barrier) (Near the Missing spot of terrain, in front of Basher) (Cracked)

Battle 7 Victory!
3150z, 18 Bugfrags, FireAura1Protection: Any Non-Aqua attack lower than 40 HP
Accuracy: S
Description: Negates any Non-Aqua attack less than 40HP
Duration: Three turns, or until destroyed
Element: Fire
Special: Status Guard: This chip blocks debuffs.
Trader Rank: C

Open Mystery Data? Y/N

As he stood from the remains of the large meta-virus, CourseMan rolled his shoulders and cracked his neck to each side. After a moment of making sure that it wasn't moving any more he nodded to himself.

“Hmph. Though so. Right...” With a flex of his fingers, the icy gauntlets cracked apart and shattered into crystalline fragments that were absorbed into his free-flowing wave whips again. As they extended and circled outward afresh, the crimson colours faded from his coat and the other features of his changed outfit subtly shifted back to his usual attire. Courser took one hand and swept t over his face and forehead, washing the closed helmet away in a cascade of steaming water. He blinked a few times and took a longer breath.

“That was a bit strange... You looked really cool being all brash like that, you know. But, um... Maybe...” Jenny's voice sounded like it was trying to cover for how much her eyes had enjoyed his showing off, but Courser nodded at the sound of her voice.

“I know what you mean, Jen... Maybe we won't be using that one again for a little while at least. Good in its place, but a bit too crass for my liking. You have to admit though, effective.”

“Mmmhmm...” Jenny's hummed response only made the navigator roll his eyes.
“Ah, don't pretend you don't like it, boss.” A clone had stepped from the shadows nearby to rib him and Courser waved a hand, banishing it again.
“Hush... Anyway. We've got something else to look at for now. What else did we get from it? Did you manage to find anything out?” Courser had finished sending off the reclaimable data already, and now made his way across to the green crystal that he'd managed to preserve.

“Well, I think it matched what I read on a forum post, just here, about sightings. This one was a virus amalgam, and someone says that when their navi took one apart, it seemed like a pretty straight forward code-mesh from a few common viruses. Definitely made by someone deliberately though. That's pretty cool. Or, um, I guess, it would be neat, if it wasn't like, dangerous and set wild on the net where it can hurt navigators and other programs...” She trailed off into silence.

“It's hard to stop people wanting to make things bigger and better and stronger, Jen. Humans seem to have an in-built urge to want to make numbers bigger, when it comes to stuff like this, even when it doesn't make any sense to do it. This one wasn't too bad, though.” He started to decrypt the data crystal, keeping an eye around the area with one clone while he worked.

“Oh, we did get a nice set of chip data! That fire shield thing it kept popping up... that salvaged okay, and I've got it on a chip now.” At that, Courser paused, and eyebrow raised.

“Aura data is somewhat rare, Jen. That's a good find. Even if it doesn't end up being overly useful to us... though I think it might... if we ever want to pass it along, it should be quite valuable.” He got back to work on the data crystal. “Eyes here for a moment Jen, be ready just in case.”

(Open Mystery Data)

Opening up the GMD without an Untrap, Courseman would begin to prepare for the worst...instead, however, the GMD opened up with a resounding "pop", hatch opening up in front of him with a dripping of...black, thick ink-like goop clinging to the inside of the cube and at his feet, a brief flash of a ghost-like virus on a string, wearing a yellow straw hat appearing for a moment, long enough to see what it was in detail, before a floating battle chip replaced the image and could be grabbed from within.

GMD reward: ElecShock1Damage: 70 + Medium Solar Terrain Change + Stun + Cone Attack
Accuracy: C
Description: Blast up to 4 enemies with a cone of lightning breath that stuns. Changes terrain to Solar.
Duration: Once
Element: Elec
Trader Rank: D

As the crystal opened on an initially unpleasant sight, courser took a quick shuffle back, splitting out in two directions as he and his decoy raised defencive stances. He watched as the data finished resolving, cautious, until it became clear that it was safe, then relaxed and stepped forward again to claim the data.

"Looks like a repeat, Jen. Not one I'm fond of either, but we may as well add it to the load list for now. We'll find something better soon enough." He flicked the chip data away, sending it back to the PET with small nod, then began to move on, kicking off onto a surfing eddy of current as he left the battle field.

"This is another electrical one... wouldn't it be useful there in the Sharo net, or, like, if you were hunting for water chips?" In his ear, Jenny sounded thoughtful and he guessed she was reading up on the chips details quickly while he searched. He rolled his shoulders, glancing to the sides an keeping his eyes open.

"It would, sort of... But... well, it's not really the sort of chip I'm keen on."
"Boss likes to score with every play..."
"Hush!" Courser waved away the clone that had trailed alongside him. He tried not to let himself get frustrated at the interjections; this outing was about getting away from all the stress he had with his decoys, after all.
"I mean, Jen, the way chips like that are designed, they can potentially do a lot of damage and coverage, but they're too inefficient for my liking. They scatter broad-wave enough that they'll fail to actually connect with what I'm directing them at, as often as not." He shrugged. "I'll use them in places where they'll stand to really catch a lot of things, and it doesn't matter which ones I hit or miss; overall they do pretty well in those cases, which is why they make them, I think... but I try to avoid those situations. I prefer certainty."

"That seems fair I guess. You've got a bunch of the in the bottom of your load order though. Should I take them out? Oh, one sec, I'm going to order another drink." Courser shook his head, and kept his attention focused on the land around him, watching for further interruptions, until he heard the sounds of Jenny settling in again.

"No, leave them there for now. There's no harm in it; they're a just-in-case measure. We'll replace them with something I'm more likely to use as we find things." His operator's small murmur of assent was accompanied by an almost audible shrug and Courser pushed on.

((Ready for battle 8))

Continuing along the network as he picked up his chip data, a deep blue ice would stretch further and further along the eyes Courseman could see, with very little to change the scenery. Though before long, Courseman would feel the ping of viruses in the back of his head, a few pieces of white "normal" paneling scattered about with a cracked tile and one that was completely missing from the field entirely. Walking forward from the edge of this field, a thunderstorm cracked out above Courseman's head, a black colored Swordy with a bloodied hatchet in it's hand began to float up towards Courseman from the other side of the field, light blue coloring having avoided being dyed this inky black color it was adorned with now.

Before Courseman could move forward to intercept it, a basher with a similar coloring would drop down from the top of the field, cockling a pair of high powered shotguns in it's hands as others began to dot the field in front of the navi...a Dark Mech EX and Raingear EX both in the same hurriedly colored scheme of black with their original colors shining through...and then an absolute UNIT of a virus known as an Ashuraid dropped down near the modified Swordy, a pair of giant spiked knuckles adorning it's hands, a similar bloody and rusty red coating the tips of each spike as it flexed at the navi...and finally, Battle Routines flared up for Courseman, escape still a possibility as usual, but only back the way he came in...

-- Viruses --
Swordy-ASwordy-A (Swordy-A)

Area: Yoka, Sharo

HP: 80
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 15 Aqua + Long Range Attack + Slashing
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: When this virus is 2 panels away from the target, or its enemies are 2-deep, it will attack with Aqua Blade.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Aqua + Wide Range Attack + Slashing
Secondary Attack Accuracy: B
Secondary Attack Description: When this virus is standing directly adjacent to its target, or diagonally from it, it will attack with Aqua Sword.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AquaKnife, Zenny
Special: Swordy-A's are immune to Freeze Status.
Special: Uses Area Grab to get into attack range.: 80 HP (Ice) (To the side of the Ashuraid EX)
DarkMech EXDarkMech EX (DarkMech)

DarkMechs move and dodge at an average rate, usually. The exception is that they move at a very high rate of speed when they are rushing in to attack a stunned target with their twin swords. They fire low damage thunderball projectiles until someone becomes stunned, at which time one of the DarkMechs present will attack that target.

Area: Sharo, NAXA, NetVegas

HP: 160
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Elec + Homing + Stun1
Primary Attack Accuracy: C
Primary Attack Description: Fires a slow-moving homing thunderball that stuns on contact.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 20 Null + Slashing x 2 Hits, Stun Cure
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: When a stunned target is detected, this virus rushes in to attack them with twin sword slashes. If the attack connects, the target will be cured of all instances of Stun, no mater how many.
Element: None.
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MachineSword, Zenny
Special: Only slashes stunned targets. If a target is stunned by another virus, it will attack that target. If more than one DarkMech is present, they take turns attacking.: 160 HP (Ice) (Roughly towards the west-most middle part of the field)
Raingear EXRaingear EX (Raingear)

This virus family is positively deadly when fighting on Ice Terrain, to the point where the players are at a severe disadvantage. Unless you just have it in for the player, try not to combine the two very often. I'm serious about this. -Pally

Area: Yoka, Beach, Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 30 Aqua + Wide Attack + Ground Attack
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Blasts enemy with a geyser that bursts suddenly from the ground.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Group Attack + Ground Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: D
Secondary Attack Description: Blasts the enemy with a marching line of geysers.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): WaterLine1, AquaTower1, Zenny
Special: This virus' attacks will freeze the target solid on ice terrain.: 120 HP (Ice) (Middle-north part of the field)
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: 120 HP (Ice) (Middle of the field, in line with Courseman)
Ashuraid EXAshuraid EX (Ashuraid)

The Ashuraid are a new strain of 6 foot tall semi-humanoid viruses with bodies made of durable metal alloys. Ashuraid viruses lack legs, and instead roll around on a 1 ton solid steel ball 1-foot in diameter that rests in a cupola. Rising from the top of the cupola is an alloy pillar that supports their smooth and curving metal bodies. The key defining feature of Ashuraid viruses are their half dozen free-floating arm segments constructed of an indestructible alloy. Three of these arms feature metallic rights hands, and the other three feature metallic left hands, thus they are differentiated. In combat, the virus will ball these hands up into fists, and launch volleys of rocket punches at their foes. The virus' helmeted head rests upon a short metallic rod-like neck with their faces hidden behind a metallic faceplate. The exception being their mouths, which are generally curved downwards in a permanent frown while in the presence of Navigators. It is speculated that Ashuraid are a hacked derivative of the Bladia viruses spliced together with fragments of other viruses and a healthy dose of battlechip program data. This would account for their size, strength, and malicious nature. Where and how this was possibly accomplished is unknown. Ashuraid viruses move and dodge at better than average speeds, although they rarely choose to dodge at all. Ashuraid viruses are ranged attackers, and prefer to hold the range open against their enemies as melee range attacks with their Impacting abilities generally render Counters useless. Ashuraids attack by launching their six free-floating indestructible alloy arms at one or more enemies in volleys of 3 rocket punches. It takes 3 arms to execute a MeteorKnucke attack, 3 to execute a Counter attack, and all 6 to execute their GiantHook attack. It takes roughly an action of cooldowm time after executing a long distance attack for the arms used in the attack to return to the Ashuraid's side. During this time, they may not execute a Counter Attack if they do not have enough arms available. Ergo if all 6 arms are either being used in an attack, or in cool-down following an attack or counter attack, the Ashuraid cannot use a Counter. The rest of their attacks do not require their arms to return to their side. The return feature is automatic, and does not require actions to perform. Ashuraid can move while attacking or defending, and are allowed to counter while dodging if enough arms are available. Setting a counter requires an action while executing one does not. Ashuraid are extremely heavy viruses that will sink like the lead weights they are in liquid, and they know it. They will avoid liquid terrain entirely, if possible, and will never appear near these types of naturally occurring terrain for this reason. Only an Ashuraid's body is damageable. Striking an Ashuraid's floating arms will not damage the virus or the arms themselves, no matter what you hit them with. The Ashuraids will not intentionally defend themselves with their arms outside of their Counter ability, which is nullified by Impact. Do not abuse this.

Area: Sharo, NAXA

HP: 140
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 3 Fists
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Launches three rocket fists at distant opponents. Each fist may target individually, meaning multi-hit and/or multi-target both work up to a max of 3 punches.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: Counter vs Damage: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 2 Hits
Secondary Attack Accuracy: S (Block) / B (Counter)
Secondary Attack Description: Uses a trio of fists to block a non-Impact attack while executing a double punch counterstrike. Only two Counters may be active at any given time, and the virus must be physically able to execute a counter in order to use one. Counters work at any range. An action is required to set this effect, but no actions are required to execute the Counter when triggered, as it is automatic. Impact attacks nullify this Counter ability.
Tertiary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break + LifeSword Range x 2 Attacks
Tertiary Attack Accuracy: B
Tertiary Attack Description: Sweeps the field with a salvo of flying fists from the left, and then the right. Does not damage friendlies, and may be executed at any range. The virus cannot use Counters while executing this attack.
Element: Null
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MeteorKnuckle1, Counter1, Zenny
Special: SuperArmor: Immunity to Knockback, Microburst, Pull, Gravity, and similar effects.
Special: HardCase: Damage is reduced by half until hit with a Break attack, at which time this effect is nullified and they take standard damage. Break does not deal extra damage.: 140 HP (Normal) (Northmost part of the field, in line with Courseman)

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Ice) (Near the southmost bottom middle parts of the field)

-- Terrain --
75% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Literally everywhere else)
15% Normal

• No effects.

(Randomly dotted on the landscape)
5% Cracked

• Changes to Broken when stepped on, chance to fall in when triggered.
• Burrow: Change terrain to Broken, Null 50 to burrower.
• Panel Crack attacks, >100 Damage Break/Impact/Drop attacks: Change terrain hit to Broken.
• PanelShot: Splash1.

(Near Courseman, about two panels north of his position)
5% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Off to the right side of the field towards the bottom most corner)

-- Battle 8 Ready? Start!! --

Battle Style active: Extermination!
Victory Condition: Kill everything that moves, opposing you

As more foes began to show up, courser's eyes flicked around to the different viruses; something peculiar was definitely going in this part of the network. The steady stream of complex viruses being warped in from somewhere else as a concern on its own, but these ones had clearly seen some kind of modification. He let his water eddy carry him in a slightly curving arc as more pressed, and uncurled his wave whips until they trailed in small lashing motions across the ice behind him.

“Heads up, Jen. I don't have any info on the big one at the back. Six arms, rolling ball for movement. See what you can find.” He kicked off again and began to dart forward, peeling left while a second version of himself split right. The decoy fronted on the right hand group, visually pulling a misty shell over itself as Courser did the same. It drew one whip back, lashing it around as it looked for an opening to strike either the Basher of the Mech, while its other hand form a mock visual of Courser's water shield.

“So, what's with the paint job then, huh? Looks more tacky than scary, you know... you're only half done.” The clone shifted as it spoke, light on its feet as it feigned looking for a chance to attack cleanly.

CourseMan made more towards the left flank of the cluster, a field of protecting mist obscuring his form as he watched the partially-blackened viruses. Whichever one of them picked the right Courser to attack first would only succeed in creating yet another decoy, though as he prepared himself for the secondary split, he planned to let the fresh clone dive forward and continue its supposed dash, while he meant to pull up and stop short when it triggered.

“Want to test that new chip?” Jenny's voice was mostly curious, but Courser shook his head before answering.
“Not here. Too many things throwing about cross-element attacks for it.”
“Aww...” Jenny's disappointment would have to be consoled later; Courser only grinned and dismissed one of his wave whips long enough to reach for his belt. The silver-worked tri-barelled revolver came up and swept across the line of viruses to his side, echoing with a trio of concussive charges as he pulled once on each of the three in the line.

One quick arc of shots was all he took time for, however, before he blew the smoke, spun it once around his hand and stowed it back in his belt with a smooth motion. As he released the weapon, water coalesced and build around his hand again, though this time he projected it into the familiar broad field of rushing water that formed a single boss in front of his hand before rushing out in every direction to make a broad, high-pressure field. The mists around his body lifted and refreshed themselves as he formed the defence.

“I've got something. Something about military produced autonomous defence programs, and being reclassified as viruses when they lost track of them and stuff. The ranged type is an Ashuraid, and it attacks rapidly, but at low power, designed to break defences.” Jenny almost tripped over her words as she tried to cram as much information as she could into a second or two. Courser gave her a quick affirmative, then reached out one hand to gesture across to the other side of the field. A new inky black puddle formed and spread, before a column of dark water lifted up out of it and took shape into the now-familiar needler turret. As it solidified, courser took a small step back from the remaining viruses, pulling one hand back and letting an increasing ball of water form in it. His other decoys, any that remained, mirrored the action at other points in the field.

The needler performed a quick range-finding twist, then opened fire, focusing on the Swordy (Axey?), Basher and the Ashuraid, while Courser and his remaining decoy provided a hail of cover fire across the field, scattering high-pressure water darts everywhere and peppering the majority of the viruses that were still fighting. Courser himself kept a charge of water back amidst the hail of attacks, stretching out the wave whip again and letting individual cores of high-pressure form at several points along the length. The rushing circles drew in tight on themselves within the tendril of water, forming into thick needles, before he waved the arm up and forward. The three spines tore free of the whip, lancing up in an arc before striking back down at whichever of the viruses he could still see causing problems. The fights were getting tougher, that much was clear, but he was getting closer to whatever the source of the problem was, at least given the new aesthetic. It was something to focus on.

-=Summary=-

C*) First Barrier: (30Hp Barrier)
C*) Shadow: Moving forward and right, as though to cautiously engage the Basher and DarkMech
C1) Forked Streams: (Trap(Incoming Attack against CourseMan): Multi-Stage: First (Dodge + Decoy(1 round)), Then (10Aqua, Shot-Type x2 Hits))
C2) Magnum1Damage: 120 + Break + Panel Break x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: A triple barreled gun that blasts through defenses and terrain alike. Rare
Duration: Once
Element: Fire
Trader Rank: C (120Fire, Break, Panel Break, x3 Targets, A) RainGear, Basher, Ashuraid
C3) Shield (2-hit Shield)
C*) Fast Barrier: (30Hp Barrier)
C4) Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C (80Hp Object: 40null, x2 Hits, x3 Targets, A) Swordy, DarkMech, Ashuraid
C5) Solo Teamwork: (10Aqua, x 2 Hits, x 4 Targets, Shot-Type) DarkMech, RainGear, Basher, Ashuraid
C6) AquaNeedle2Damage: 30 x 3 Needles + Variable Targeting + Drop Attack
Accuracy: B
Description: Three needles drop on enemies
Duration: Once
Element: Aqua
Special: Variable Targeting: Allows the user to select a target for each individual hit of an attack. This means they may strike the same target multiple times, multiple different targets, or a mix of the two as they wish.
Special: Drop Attack: This attack originates above the battlefield, and falls to the ground. It gains one rank of accuracy against High Altitude targets.
Trader Rank: C (40Aqua x 3 Needles, Variable, Drop, B) Remaining enemies; Priority if several: Mech, Ashuraid, Basher, Raingear, Swordy

Preparing himself as his shadow began to move towards the Basher DarkMech, the navi laid down his trap and readied himself for potential attacks alongside a barrier rising around his body. The RainGear would take the initiative as it opened it's mouth, a flood of towering pillars of water would begin to march across the field towards the plucky navi, who was quick to evade and avoid the attack, his trap activating as two counter attacks flew across the field and smacked the waiting Raingear in the face (10x2) as the DarkMech would shoot out a homing ball of energy that crossed paths with one of his clones, causing it to "poof" out of existence as quickly as it came into it from his trap.

Now was the navi's time to blast his foes in turn, gun in hand, a trio of explosive blasts rang out across the field. Cracking the paneling beneath two of his targets, one blast had gone awry and missed, inexplicably the Basher had been spared from this attack, the Ashurraid looking far worse for wear as armor plating came off it in rivulets as the ground beneath it was little more than rubble it could roll upon (120, defenses negated) while the Raingear was little more than a pile of ash (120) at the bottom of a newly formed pit. The DarkMech would proceed to turn to a Courseman, another ball of energy being sent out and hitting his other shadow double, sending it packing for the time being. Meanwhile, the Basher began to click its arm cannons, round being loaded into the main cannons as it did so, readying itself to blast with extreme prejudice against the navi. Said navi summoned himself a secondary shield to prepare for a potential onslaught against him, refreshing an already fully ready barrier in the meantime.

And then the onslaught began. Flexing it's arms, the monstrously powerful Asuraid began to swing each of it's six arms at Courseman, the six fists coming in a salvo of three each. The three gigantic fists crashing into the barrier as it just BARELY held up against the attack, flickering in and out of existence...as the second barely managed to miss the stationary navi, leading to him being spared a hit (20!+Miss). And just as quickly as the fists disappeared to get reattached to the Ashurraid in a moment, the Swordy-A would teleport right up in front of him, leading to a quick cleaver slash against his protective barrier, shattering it in short order (15, no overspill). Having a chance to breathe for a brief moment, Courseman quickly summoned his trusted partner in crime, his trusty needler turret. A salvo of needles being sent off towards all corners of the field, the Swordy was quickly dispatched (40x2), the Ashuraid would dodge one...only to get hit by the other (Miss+40) and die right then and there, whilst the annoying DarkMech would be given a duo in the side of it's body (Miss+40).

It was then the Basher finally finished loading in it's ammo. A resounding ca-click before a trio of explosions set off in short order, destroying a large portion of his helper's chassis, barely hanging on with it's internals struggling to stay inside it's body (60) as Courseman's shield just BARELY held on, even if the paneling beneath him had seen better days, his shield crumbled away to nothing after having done it's duty. It was again Courseman's time to strike, and he would do so with aplomb, a quartet of shots being sent out against his two foes, two striking against the DarkMech...the icy paneling beneath it melting away and completely freezing up it's systems, the virus flailing about as it could not see through the frozen condensation that locked up it's eye (10x2+Freeze1) whilst the Basher, amazingly, avoided both hits against it...stupid lucky Basher (Miss x2). And finally, a trio of needles rained down from the heavens, skewering the flailing DarkMech all of ONCE by some sort of dumb luck on it's part, bad aiming on Courseman's part...or maybe a combination of both? (40+Miss x2) Well, he had at least thinned out the crowd some, ink and goop beginning to leak from the wacky flailing metal sword virus in front of him, meanwhile the Basher was readying for another salvo against him and his partner.

-- Viruses --
Swordy-ASwordy-A (Swordy-A)

Area: Yoka, Sharo

HP: 80
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 15 Aqua + Long Range Attack + Slashing
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: When this virus is 2 panels away from the target, or its enemies are 2-deep, it will attack with Aqua Blade.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Aqua + Wide Range Attack + Slashing
Secondary Attack Accuracy: B
Secondary Attack Description: When this virus is standing directly adjacent to its target, or diagonally from it, it will attack with Aqua Sword.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AquaKnife, Zenny
Special: Swordy-A's are immune to Freeze Status.
Special: Uses Area Grab to get into attack range.: PING!
DarkMech EXDarkMech EX (DarkMech)

DarkMechs move and dodge at an average rate, usually. The exception is that they move at a very high rate of speed when they are rushing in to attack a stunned target with their twin swords. They fire low damage thunderball projectiles until someone becomes stunned, at which time one of the DarkMechs present will attack that target.

Area: Sharo, NAXA, NetVegas

HP: 160
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Elec + Homing + Stun1
Primary Attack Accuracy: C
Primary Attack Description: Fires a slow-moving homing thunderball that stuns on contact.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 20 Null + Slashing x 2 Hits, Stun Cure
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: When a stunned target is detected, this virus rushes in to attack them with twin sword slashes. If the attack connects, the target will be cured of all instances of Stun, no mater how many.
Element: None.
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MachineSword, Zenny
Special: Only slashes stunned targets. If a target is stunned by another virus, it will attack that target. If more than one DarkMech is present, they take turns attacking.: 60 HP (Ice) (Roughly towards the west-most middle part of the field)
Raingear EXRaingear EX (Raingear)

This virus family is positively deadly when fighting on Ice Terrain, to the point where the players are at a severe disadvantage. Unless you just have it in for the player, try not to combine the two very often. I'm serious about this. -Pally

Area: Yoka, Beach, Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 30 Aqua + Wide Attack + Ground Attack
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Blasts enemy with a geyser that bursts suddenly from the ground.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Group Attack + Ground Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: D
Secondary Attack Description: Blasts the enemy with a marching line of geysers.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): WaterLine1, AquaTower1, Zenny
Special: This virus' attacks will freeze the target solid on ice terrain.: Boom! No more spouts.
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: 120 HP (Ice) (Middle of the field, in line with Courseman)
Ashuraid EXAshuraid EX (Ashuraid)

The Ashuraid are a new strain of 6 foot tall semi-humanoid viruses with bodies made of durable metal alloys. Ashuraid viruses lack legs, and instead roll around on a 1 ton solid steel ball 1-foot in diameter that rests in a cupola. Rising from the top of the cupola is an alloy pillar that supports their smooth and curving metal bodies. The key defining feature of Ashuraid viruses are their half dozen free-floating arm segments constructed of an indestructible alloy. Three of these arms feature metallic rights hands, and the other three feature metallic left hands, thus they are differentiated. In combat, the virus will ball these hands up into fists, and launch volleys of rocket punches at their foes. The virus' helmeted head rests upon a short metallic rod-like neck with their faces hidden behind a metallic faceplate. The exception being their mouths, which are generally curved downwards in a permanent frown while in the presence of Navigators. It is speculated that Ashuraid are a hacked derivative of the Bladia viruses spliced together with fragments of other viruses and a healthy dose of battlechip program data. This would account for their size, strength, and malicious nature. Where and how this was possibly accomplished is unknown. Ashuraid viruses move and dodge at better than average speeds, although they rarely choose to dodge at all. Ashuraid viruses are ranged attackers, and prefer to hold the range open against their enemies as melee range attacks with their Impacting abilities generally render Counters useless. Ashuraids attack by launching their six free-floating indestructible alloy arms at one or more enemies in volleys of 3 rocket punches. It takes 3 arms to execute a MeteorKnucke attack, 3 to execute a Counter attack, and all 6 to execute their GiantHook attack. It takes roughly an action of cooldowm time after executing a long distance attack for the arms used in the attack to return to the Ashuraid's side. During this time, they may not execute a Counter Attack if they do not have enough arms available. Ergo if all 6 arms are either being used in an attack, or in cool-down following an attack or counter attack, the Ashuraid cannot use a Counter. The rest of their attacks do not require their arms to return to their side. The return feature is automatic, and does not require actions to perform. Ashuraid can move while attacking or defending, and are allowed to counter while dodging if enough arms are available. Setting a counter requires an action while executing one does not. Ashuraid are extremely heavy viruses that will sink like the lead weights they are in liquid, and they know it. They will avoid liquid terrain entirely, if possible, and will never appear near these types of naturally occurring terrain for this reason. Only an Ashuraid's body is damageable. Striking an Ashuraid's floating arms will not damage the virus or the arms themselves, no matter what you hit them with. The Ashuraids will not intentionally defend themselves with their arms outside of their Counter ability, which is nullified by Impact. Do not abuse this.

Area: Sharo, NAXA

HP: 140
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 3 Fists
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Launches three rocket fists at distant opponents. Each fist may target individually, meaning multi-hit and/or multi-target both work up to a max of 3 punches.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: Counter vs Damage: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 2 Hits
Secondary Attack Accuracy: S (Block) / B (Counter)
Secondary Attack Description: Uses a trio of fists to block a non-Impact attack while executing a double punch counterstrike. Only two Counters may be active at any given time, and the virus must be physically able to execute a counter in order to use one. Counters work at any range. An action is required to set this effect, but no actions are required to execute the Counter when triggered, as it is automatic. Impact attacks nullify this Counter ability.
Tertiary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break + LifeSword Range x 2 Attacks
Tertiary Attack Accuracy: B
Tertiary Attack Description: Sweeps the field with a salvo of flying fists from the left, and then the right. Does not damage friendlies, and may be executed at any range. The virus cannot use Counters while executing this attack.
Element: Null
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MeteorKnuckle1, Counter1, Zenny
Special: SuperArmor: Immunity to Knockback, Microburst, Pull, Gravity, and similar effects.
Special: HardCase: Damage is reduced by half until hit with a Break attack, at which time this effect is nullified and they take standard damage. Break does not deal extra damage.: Dead. Not big surprise.

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Cracked) (Near the southmost bottom middle parts of the field)

-- Objects --
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 20 HP (Cracked) (Near Courseman)

-- Terrain --
60% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Literally everywhere else)
10% Normal

• No effects.

(Randomly dotted on the landscape)
15% Cracked

• Changes to Broken when stepped on, chance to fall in when triggered.
• Burrow: Change terrain to Broken, Null 50 to burrower.
• Panel Crack attacks, >100 Damage Break/Impact/Drop attacks: Change terrain hit to Broken.
• PanelShot: Splash1.

(Near Courseman, about two panels north of his position, where Ashurraid is at, under Courseman and his Needler2)
10% Broken

• Not bottomless.
• Reverts to Normal after a time, if no one is inside.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• 1-4 Movements actions to climb back out depending on method.

(RIP Raingear and Asuraid)
5% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Off to the right side of the field towards the bottom most corner)

Courser didn't let himself slow down as the ink-coated viruses pressed in a more coordinated assault than he'd hoped for. He back-stepped from his last attack and let the water current carry him back around to the right while a fresh clone split off from his form to continue the circle in the other direction. As fresh mist obscured his form from the water at his feet, Courser let his body twist and one arm rose up with the momentum in a wide gesture. Beside the Basher, a heavy torrent of water bubbled up in response, lifting into a wave that crashed down again with a clench of the aqua-navi's fist, aiming to wash the turret away before it could get any more shots of.

If it did, his decoy was still keeping an eye on the virus while Courser's own back was turned; any shot would meet only dispersing mist as Courser himself warped to the opposite side of the offending virus to deliver another freezing splash of water. Meanwhile, the badly damaged turret continued to twist and realign itself in place, aiming two of its muzzles at the remaining viruses to add more suppressing fire to the field.

There was no sense leaving anything to chance is he could help it, and CourseMan let his small water eddy spin him about properly to face the middle of the field again, raising both hands as he did. His wave whips drew up and spread wide, forming a broad wall of water that curved outward slightly. Rather than his normal shield, this barrier of water had a different structure, and as two narrow spikes of rapidly rushing water extended through the dish and out towards the field, a low vibration in the water became a hum, that rose to an ear-piercing sonic trill, enough to shake apart any structures left on the field once and for all. Courser himself was shielded from the destructive sound wave by the curve of the dish itself, but he relaxed his braced stance after a moment or two, then collapsed the wave, drawing it back over himself in a cool, refreshing wave, just in case anything had gone disastrously. There wasn't much space for quips or mild witticisms this time around; instead the navi was more focused on dealing with the present threats and getting a better look at whatever had been done to them.

-=Summary=-

C*) Fast Barrier: (30Hp Barrier)
C*) Shadow:
C1) IceWave2Damage: 100 + Freeze
Accuracy: A
Description: Sends a wave of ice at one enemy
Duration: Once
Element: Aqua
Special: Ice Type: This chip counts as Ice Type for the purposes of potentially freezing targets on Aqua Element Terrain or environments, as applicable.
Trader Rank: C (115Aqua, Freeze, A), Basher
C*) Needler: (40null, x2 Hits, x3 Targets, A), Basher, Mech
C2) Mist and Shadow: Trap(Incoming Attack against CourseMan): Multi-Stage: First (Teleport + Decoy(1 round)), Then ((Aqua)LifeDrain 10, Shot-Type), Then (Self-Slow)
C3) Pulsar1Damage: 70 + Object Triggered Blast 2
Accuracy: A (Primary) / B (Blast)
Description: Fires a sound wave. If it hits an object, its range is amplified, hitting anything near that object in a blast of noise.
Duration: Once
Element: Null
Special: Object Triggered Blast: Blast effect that only works if the attack hits an Object, such as a RockCube.
Trader Rank: D (70, A) Basher
C4) Dodge
C5) Pulsar1Damage: 70 + Object Triggered Blast 2
Accuracy: A (Primary) / B (Blast)
Description: Fires a sound wave. If it hits an object, its range is amplified, hitting anything near that object in a blast of noise.
Duration: Once
Element: Null
Special: Object Triggered Blast: Blast effect that only works if the attack hits an Object, such as a RockCube.
Trader Rank: D (70, A) Mech
C6) Wave Refresh: (30 Healing)

Quick on his feet, he launched his weapon towards the Basher and thankfully, his ain was true, icing it over and deleting it completely and utterly (230!) as it's body shattered completely. His gun platform then shooting at the DarkMech and...actually hitting both times as it flailed about, falling over dead anticlimacticly (40*2), viscous ink spraying all over in front of it as it collapsed to the ground with a resounding thud, zenny, bugfrags and...chip data scattered across the grounds, a light black tint to all of it.

-- Viruses --
Swordy-ASwordy-A (Swordy-A)

Area: Yoka, Sharo

HP: 80
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 15 Aqua + Long Range Attack + Slashing
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: When this virus is 2 panels away from the target, or its enemies are 2-deep, it will attack with Aqua Blade.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Aqua + Wide Range Attack + Slashing
Secondary Attack Accuracy: B
Secondary Attack Description: When this virus is standing directly adjacent to its target, or diagonally from it, it will attack with Aqua Sword.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AquaKnife, Zenny
Special: Swordy-A's are immune to Freeze Status.
Special: Uses Area Grab to get into attack range.: PING!
DarkMech EXDarkMech EX (DarkMech)

DarkMechs move and dodge at an average rate, usually. The exception is that they move at a very high rate of speed when they are rushing in to attack a stunned target with their twin swords. They fire low damage thunderball projectiles until someone becomes stunned, at which time one of the DarkMechs present will attack that target.

Area: Sharo, NAXA, NetVegas

HP: 160
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Elec + Homing + Stun1
Primary Attack Accuracy: C
Primary Attack Description: Fires a slow-moving homing thunderball that stuns on contact.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 20 Null + Slashing x 2 Hits, Stun Cure
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: When a stunned target is detected, this virus rushes in to attack them with twin sword slashes. If the attack connects, the target will be cured of all instances of Stun, no mater how many.
Element: None.
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MachineSword, Zenny
Special: Only slashes stunned targets. If a target is stunned by another virus, it will attack that target. If more than one DarkMech is present, they take turns attacking.: DEAD
Raingear EXRaingear EX (Raingear)

This virus family is positively deadly when fighting on Ice Terrain, to the point where the players are at a severe disadvantage. Unless you just have it in for the player, try not to combine the two very often. I'm serious about this. -Pally

Area: Yoka, Beach, Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 30 Aqua + Wide Attack + Ground Attack
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Blasts enemy with a geyser that bursts suddenly from the ground.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Group Attack + Ground Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: D
Secondary Attack Description: Blasts the enemy with a marching line of geysers.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): WaterLine1, AquaTower1, Zenny
Special: This virus' attacks will freeze the target solid on ice terrain.: Boom! No more spouts.
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: ICE'D
Ashuraid EXAshuraid EX (Ashuraid)

The Ashuraid are a new strain of 6 foot tall semi-humanoid viruses with bodies made of durable metal alloys. Ashuraid viruses lack legs, and instead roll around on a 1 ton solid steel ball 1-foot in diameter that rests in a cupola. Rising from the top of the cupola is an alloy pillar that supports their smooth and curving metal bodies. The key defining feature of Ashuraid viruses are their half dozen free-floating arm segments constructed of an indestructible alloy. Three of these arms feature metallic rights hands, and the other three feature metallic left hands, thus they are differentiated. In combat, the virus will ball these hands up into fists, and launch volleys of rocket punches at their foes. The virus' helmeted head rests upon a short metallic rod-like neck with their faces hidden behind a metallic faceplate. The exception being their mouths, which are generally curved downwards in a permanent frown while in the presence of Navigators. It is speculated that Ashuraid are a hacked derivative of the Bladia viruses spliced together with fragments of other viruses and a healthy dose of battlechip program data. This would account for their size, strength, and malicious nature. Where and how this was possibly accomplished is unknown. Ashuraid viruses move and dodge at better than average speeds, although they rarely choose to dodge at all. Ashuraid viruses are ranged attackers, and prefer to hold the range open against their enemies as melee range attacks with their Impacting abilities generally render Counters useless. Ashuraids attack by launching their six free-floating indestructible alloy arms at one or more enemies in volleys of 3 rocket punches. It takes 3 arms to execute a MeteorKnucke attack, 3 to execute a Counter attack, and all 6 to execute their GiantHook attack. It takes roughly an action of cooldowm time after executing a long distance attack for the arms used in the attack to return to the Ashuraid's side. During this time, they may not execute a Counter Attack if they do not have enough arms available. Ergo if all 6 arms are either being used in an attack, or in cool-down following an attack or counter attack, the Ashuraid cannot use a Counter. The rest of their attacks do not require their arms to return to their side. The return feature is automatic, and does not require actions to perform. Ashuraid can move while attacking or defending, and are allowed to counter while dodging if enough arms are available. Setting a counter requires an action while executing one does not. Ashuraid are extremely heavy viruses that will sink like the lead weights they are in liquid, and they know it. They will avoid liquid terrain entirely, if possible, and will never appear near these types of naturally occurring terrain for this reason. Only an Ashuraid's body is damageable. Striking an Ashuraid's floating arms will not damage the virus or the arms themselves, no matter what you hit them with. The Ashuraids will not intentionally defend themselves with their arms outside of their Counter ability, which is nullified by Impact. Do not abuse this.

Area: Sharo, NAXA

HP: 140
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 3 Fists
Primary Attack Accuracy: B
Primary Attack Description: Launches three rocket fists at distant opponents. Each fist may target individually, meaning multi-hit and/or multi-target both work up to a max of 3 punches.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: Counter vs Damage: 10 Null + Impact + Break x 2 Hits
Secondary Attack Accuracy: S (Block) / B (Counter)
Secondary Attack Description: Uses a trio of fists to block a non-Impact attack while executing a double punch counterstrike. Only two Counters may be active at any given time, and the virus must be physically able to execute a counter in order to use one. Counters work at any range. An action is required to set this effect, but no actions are required to execute the Counter when triggered, as it is automatic. Impact attacks nullify this Counter ability.
Tertiary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Null + Impact + Break + LifeSword Range x 2 Attacks
Tertiary Attack Accuracy: B
Tertiary Attack Description: Sweeps the field with a salvo of flying fists from the left, and then the right. Does not damage friendlies, and may be executed at any range. The virus cannot use Counters while executing this attack.
Element: Null
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): MeteorKnuckle1, Counter1, Zenny
Special: SuperArmor: Immunity to Knockback, Microburst, Pull, Gravity, and similar effects.
Special: HardCase: Damage is reduced by half until hit with a Break attack, at which time this effect is nullified and they take standard damage. Break does not deal extra damage.: Dead. Not big surprise.

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Cracked) (Near the southmost bottom middle parts of the field)

-- Objects --
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 20 HP (Cracked) (Near Courseman)

-- Terrain --
60% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Literally everywhere else)
10% Normal

• No effects.

(Randomly dotted on the landscape)
15% Cracked

• Changes to Broken when stepped on, chance to fall in when triggered.
• Burrow: Change terrain to Broken, Null 50 to burrower.
• Panel Crack attacks, >100 Damage Break/Impact/Drop attacks: Change terrain hit to Broken.
• PanelShot: Splash1.

(Near Courseman, about two panels north of his position, where Ashurraid is at, under Courseman and his Needler2)
10% Broken

• Not bottomless.
• Reverts to Normal after a time, if no one is inside.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• 1-4 Movements actions to climb back out depending on method.

(RIP Raingear and Asuraid)
5% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Off to the right side of the field towards the bottom most corner)

Battle 8 Victory!
3500z, 17 Bugfrags, Counter1Damage: (1-Hit I-Field) + (Counter(70 + Impact + Break): On-Hit)
Accuracy: S Block, A Return
Description: Defends against one attack, teleports to enemy, and strikes with Gutpunch. Impacting. Breaking.
Duration: Once
Element: Null
Special: I-Field is pierced by Impact, Counter is negated by Impact.
Special: Status Guard: This chip blocks debuffs.
Trader Rank: D

As the last enemies collapsed into inky piles, Courser shook out his wave whips and rolled his shoulders, then took a brief lap around the area, searching the viral remnants for any further clues about what was going on in the region. The viruses were obviously affected by something, but it hadn't left much in the way of tangible traces that he could really learn anything from. He stirred one of the ink patches with a tendril of water and watched it slowly dilute into the Sharo snow.

“Oh! courser, the PET jsut gave me a warning about a data limit of some kind. One sec... It says, um... it says that the allocated chip registry for standard battle routines is full, after that last one you sent back. do I need to unload some of them to make space or something?” Jenny sounded mildly curious in his ear, and courser gave the battle field one last pass over before he began to move onward and deeper into the network.

“Don't worry about it for now, Jen. It just means that the device has hit the limit for how many chip images it can pre-load. Rachel set it up to automatically image each chip that transferred in, I think. The PET doesn't hold the actual chip data, but it keeps a set of images... like a space allocation with an instruction file for what to expect. If you try to load a chip that it doesn't have an image for, in the middle of normal combat operations, it'll just complain at you.” Courser surfed onward as he scanned the surrounding snow and tundra for a further sign of where the oddly affected viruses had been originating from. Every so often he glanced towards the sky as well, since there had been a number of sudden drop-ins already.

“So... that's what the navi shop upgrades talking about folder expansions were for?” The question was followed by a loud slurping noise as Jenny cleaned out the bottom of her drink with her straw, far too close tot he PET's microphone. “So, what do we do when we find more?”

“There's a folder options setting, in the combat system. It'll let you delete chip images and load new ones in from chips you have available. It should let you store a library of other chip images in a separate record as well, so you don't need to reload the physical chip every time you want to change the combat folder, too. It's been on automatic until now, otherwise you would have had to do it for every new chip we found so far.” On the other side of their conversation, Courser heard Jenny shuffling around and toying with settings, before she spoke up again after a few moments.

“Right. That all makes sense. We've just got the thirty limit for now, but I guess, as we find more we can pick and choose which ones you want to have access to most often, right?” About to answer, he heard Jenny breath in with an excited sound. “Oh! I can set up all sorts of different folders for you, and make like, ones that are all tailored for one thing or another. I can make really weird ones. It's like those deck-building card games, sort of!” Courser wasn't sure whether he wanted to cringe, laugh or shake his head. The splitting darkness of a few extra shadows saw him surreptitiously doing all three.

“Something like that... Just try to warn me what I've got before you do anything too odd, alright?” He settled on a wry grin as he pressed on.

((Ready for Battle 9))

Moving onwards, Courseman's journey through the endless ice fields finally gave way to a small road carved out through the frost and snow; the steady line of white CyberPanels was a welcome reprieve from the monotony of the scenery so far. The road led up to the sheer side of a mountain, with it going around a small bend up ahead. Just short of the bend, a Mr. Prog floated on its lonesome, colored yellow with an appropriately matching yellow hardhat atop its head. It seemed to be looking around the corner for something, not noticing Courseman's approach. Then, suddenly, a loud explosion erupted from up ahead, accompanied by a plume of black smoke. The Prog jumped in alarm. "OH DEAR, OH DEAR!" it exclaimed.

Approaching the Prog would reveal that the road was cut short by a massive ravine that stretched out past a snow-laden cliff. At the edge of the cliff, a couple of blue ColdHead viruses were stationed on either side of the road, overlooking what appeared to be the remnants of a shattered bridge across the ravine. The left ColdHead was accompanied by a Basher virus, its barrels currently smoking black from a recent salvo. Above the ravine, a pair of Megalians were looking down at it, where the bridge's route may have gone, their stone faces betraying nothing of their recent doings. Neither the viruses nor the Prog seemed to be aware of Courseman just yet, both of them being preoccupied by the destruction of the bridge.

-- Viruses --
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. A: 100 HP (Snow, left of road)
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. B: 100 HP (Snow, right of road)
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: 120 HP (Snow, left of road)
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. A: 130 HP (Missing)
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. B: 130 HP (Missing)

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Normal)

-- Other --
Mr. Prog: 100 HP (Normal) (PPC Equipped: MetHelmet)

-- Terrain --
20% Normal

• No effects.

(Roadway through the snow)
40% Snow

• Non-Aqua Elementals get -10% Evasion and reduced movement speed.
• Wind attacks: +100% Source Damage. Imbue Aqua if Null. Change terrain hit to Ice for 1 turn after turn hit, then back to Snow.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Ice, generate Frosty Mist: -10% Accuracy for Non-Aqua Elementals, +10% evasion against Non-Aqua Elementals, Freeze1 effect for any Aqua or Wind attacks.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Everything else up to the ravine)
40% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Ravine)

-- Encounter 9 Start!! --

The first sign of other presence that wasn't an immediate attack drew Courser's attention as he ranged across the ice and snow, and he made a diversion from his path to head towards the winding roadway. It might not be related to the odd onslaught of modified viruses he'd been encountering, but another actual life form, even if it was just a prog, was still a welcome sight. He skidded to a halt not too far from the floating program, about to call a greeting when the explosion drowned out his attempt; in an instant Courser himself had skipped back a few feet, leaving behind a duplicate of himself that had adopted a tense, combat ready pose in place, instead.

After an extra moment, Courser focused on getting the prog's attention, stepping in close to speak in a calm, low voice. As he did, his decoy took the more brazen approach, kicking off on a water current and gliding out towards the edge of the ravine to inspect more closely.

“Hey there, my little friend. Looks like you need a clean up crew. If there's anything you don't want mopped up, best tell me now...” He grinned and winked at the prog, shaking out both hands as his wave whips uncurled and inky water rose to darken his form into mist and living shadows. Beyond the bend, his clone mirrored the action of readying its weapons, casting a gaze around the scene.

“Hey there, my little friends... Looks like someone needs a cleanup crew.” He took a brief stance, lowering its body with a grin as its wave whips curled and lashed. “If any of you don't want mopped up, best speak now, before we get messy.”

Behind the decoy, a pool or dark water formed and spread, before the shadows lifted up to give rise to Courser's favoured mode of field suppression. The turret took form, then reticulated and aimed its muzzles at the floating megalians. As it began to fire repeated rounds at them, Courser winked at the worried prog and reached out a hand to pat it lightly on the helmet. A swirl of watery mist extended to crate a shell about the program. Not far away, a similar protective barrier rose to envelope the needle turret.

“Just keep yourself safe. I'll clean up this lot and then you can tell me what you're doing out here after. Sit tight.” He gave it a brief nod, then stepped out around the bend, his shadowed form gliding in a fluid slide more than walking. Courser already had a decent bead on each of the enemies her was facing; even if his clone couldn't draw their attention for long, it gave him a clean sight of the field. One hand came up, holding the shrouded and insubstantial shape of his silvered revolver. Courser let his body drift to a side-on position and held his arm out straight, taking an extra moment to mark and focus his shots before firing; as sure as he usually was with the weapon, it was much harder to make clean shots while he was fully in the shadows like this.

As the shots rang out, Courser took anther step forward, slipping the smoking pistol back into his belt flexing his fingers as he shook out both arms. As much as he wasn't a fan of the scattering, unpredictable chips, those same properties meant they wouldn't suffer for aiming while he was shadowed. Sparks began to flicker in the strands of his whips as they drew up into rushing globes of current just beyond the palm of each hand. He winced as the charge grew, but when it reached a critical point and both globs had become dense storms of encased electrical energy, the navi braced himself, then lifted both hands up and outward, turning the charge outward towards the two floating megalians in a pair of storm waves that lit up the area above the ravine. As the charge spent, Courser pulled his hands back sharply, shaking them both out again and flexing his fingers to let the sensation pass.

-=Summary=-

C*) First Barrier: (30Hp Barrier on Prog)
C*) Shadow: Heading forward to scout while Courser talks to the Prog briefly
C1) Murky Deception (Shadow, 2 Rounds) (Self-Slow2 (1 round, 2 instances))
C2) Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C (80Hp Object: 40null, x2 Hits, x3 Targets, A) (MegA, MegB, ColdHeadA)
C*) Fast Barrier: (30Hp Barrier on Needler)
C3) Take Aim
C4) Magnum1Damage: 120 + Break + Panel Break x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: A triple barreled gun that blasts through defenses and terrain alike. Rare
Duration: Once
Element: Fire
Trader Rank: C (120Fire, Break, Panel Break, x3 Targets, A) (ColdHeadA, ColdHeadB, Basher)
C5) ElecShock1Damage: 70 + Medium Solar Terrain Change + Stun + Cone Attack
Accuracy: C
Description: Blast up to 4 enemies with a cone of lightning breath that stuns. Changes terrain to Solar.
Duration: Once
Element: Elec
Trader Rank: D (70Elec, Stun, Cone (Up to 4 targets), C) aimed upward, at Megalian(s)
C6) ElecShock1Damage: 70 + Medium Solar Terrain Change + Stun + Cone Attack
Accuracy: C
Description: Blast up to 4 enemies with a cone of lightning breath that stuns. Changes terrain to Solar.
Duration: Once
Element: Elec
Trader Rank: D (70Elec, Stun, Cone (Up to 4 targets), C) aimed upward, at Megalian(s)

With his first course of action being to split off his visage in two after distancing himself, Courseman's sight seemed to get the attention of the Prog, which immediately hopped to attention. "OH, THANK YOU!" the hard-hatted Prog said. "I WAS SENT HERE TO REPAIR THIS BRIDGE! THANK YOU FOR THE HELP!" The Prog's excited outburst caused the viruses to turn their attention towards their direction, but fortuitously, they were still around the bend enough that the decoy Courseman sent ahead was much more of a primary target. Immediately, the ColdHead viruses snapped their mouths shut, while the Megalians went on the offensive by launching their heads forward. One of the heads collided with the diversion and dispersed it, just as its backup popped up next to it -- the Needler turret. Rapid rounds of needle fire burst out towards some of the viruses, solidly impaling the two Megalian heads but ricocheting off of the ColdHead's spherical dome.

With reassurances given to the Prog, it cheerily responded with an "UNDERSTOOD! I WILL WAIT UNTIL THE OPERATION IS COMPLETE!" as it was covered in a protective watery mist. Once his real self glided out into the area, the Basher seemed to take note, and a dim reddish glow began to emit from its twin barrels. One of the ColdHeads also saw the shadowy figure come in, and split open its face to belch out a cannonball towards him. The ice ball landed just shy of his position, turning the snow next to him into sheer ice. After steadying his aim as well as he could, the shots rang out from his revolver. The sound of shattering metal came forth, with the shots landing on one of the ColdHeads, as well as the Basher, ending the latter just before it could launch its intended attack. Sparks flew next, as the Megalians' heads tried to retreat into the relative safety of their blue-shrouded bodies. Their luck would fail them as they were fried to a crisp from the electrical attack Courseman discharged.

Another cannonball flew past him into the snow, rather anticlimactically, freezing it into ice. The ColdHead that it came from was starting to spin itself around rapidly, presumably lamenting its lack of locomotion. Behind him, the Prog he had left for itself was peeking out from around the corner. It wasn't saying much of anything, and its permanently smiling face didn't betray any kind of expression either, so it just looked kind of strange.

-- Viruses --
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. A: DELETED
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. B: 100 HP (Snow, right of road)
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: DELETED
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. A: DELETED
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. B: DELETED

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Snow) (Shadow, Self-Slow)

-- Other --
Mr. Prog: 100 HP (Normal) (PPC Equipped: MetHelmet, 30HP Barrier)
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 80 HP (Snow) (30 HP Barrier)

-- Terrain --
20% Normal

• No effects.

(Roadway through the snow)
30% Snow

• Non-Aqua Elementals get -10% Evasion and reduced movement speed.
• Wind attacks: +100% Source Damage. Imbue Aqua if Null. Change terrain hit to Ice for 1 turn after turn hit, then back to Snow.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Ice, generate Frosty Mist: -10% Accuracy for Non-Aqua Elementals, +10% evasion against Non-Aqua Elementals, Freeze1 effect for any Aqua or Wind attacks.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Everything else up to the ravine)
10% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Two patches on either side of Courseman)
40% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Ravine)

Courser was beginning to feel the strain of staying fully blended with his shadows as he resettled his stance and took a glance about the field. Fortunately, only one virus remained to be taken care of and he stood straight, beginning to glide towards it as his form shifted and split again, one body ambling to either side of the needle turret as they passed it.

As they moved, the impressions of colour fading away to a mixture of black shadows and white highlights. A few extra buttons on his shirt managed to fall open as his pace became languid in away that it wasn't before, despite being relaxed. On the other side, the other courser's appearance also shifted, filtering to monochrome shades while his skin paled and his eyes darkened slightly. They approached the ColdHead together, until, in a suddenly quicker movement, the more languid of the two CourseMen darted in and around, positioning himself to sit right beside the land-locked turret with a wide, lop-sided grin.

“Right-o... Let's get you open then, shall we? Don't worry, this won't hurt a bit.” With a lazy grace, the seated courser had produced a crudely sharpened prison shiv from somewhere and now spun it about his fingers, tossing it back and forth form one hand to the other. Across from him, the second Courser sighed and rolled his eyes, to taking a seat but instead tapping one foot and putting his hands on his hips. The seated Courser ignored him.

“Come on, little guy... Open... Up...!” With darting and prying motions, he began to jab the shiv into the seams in the virus' outer shell, striking at it with alarming force despite the crudeness of the implement as she sought a weak point to break open.

Opposite him, the other Courser slumped in obvious boredom, then leaned down and pointedly tapped his wrist at the one with the knife. The first Courser spun his shiv and shrugged. In a moment he was standing again, tucking the stealthy weapon away behind his back.

“I said...” With a manic grin, his hand came out again, pulling an improbably large, steel-headed block buster mallet from behind his back as he did. “Open. Up!” Gripped in both hands, he raised the hammer high, then brought it slamming down again in an effort to convince the virus with the far less subtle tool. The other courser only shook his head, though a small smirk betrayed a hint of amusement.

Further back, just in case Courser's messing around missed the mark, his needler took aim from the relative safety of the side lines, lining up one muzzle of its weapons with the ColdHead and waiting until it was properly open and exposed before firing a quick double flechette shot at it.

-=Summary=-

C1) Movement: towards ColdHead
C*) Shadow: Following with, implying that Courser is wasting time and is lazy. It recolours to resemble his MimeCross.
C2) JailBirdCross (Level 1, MeleeMastery, Bash, +10 to Null Chips)
C3) Dodge
C4) Prison Shiv: (20 x2Hits, Break, Nullify, Melee, A)
C5) Take Aim
C6) BigHammer1Damage: 160 + Impact + Break
Accuracy: B
Description: Summons a giant metal hammer to utterly crush one enemy that stands before you.
Duration: Once
Element: Null
Trader Rank: D (170Null, Break, Impact, A)
C*) Needler: (40null, x2 Hits, A)

With the remaining ColdHead being a solitary target, Courser seemed to take a more lax approach towards clearing it up, with his split visages each playing a different role in the matter. One of them took point with the blue dome with a not-too-innocent grin, while the other... kept watch, for lack of a better word. The first one pulled out a knife to attempt to wedge the virus's maw open, with varying success. Prying it open was successful, sure, but at one point, he missed a seam entirely, and the shiv merely embedded itself into the steel dome, cracking it in the process. Maybe it was a bit too much force. Nevertheless, Courseman opted for the brute force approach soon enough, and the ColdHead stayed stock still as it was smashed with a gigantic hammer.

"HOORAY! THANK YOU!" the Prog from behind the two Coursemen cheered. Out of nowhere, the sound of a high-capacity diesel engine started up, and a massive yellow mobile crane came driving up from around the earlier bend, with the hard-hatted Prog happily manning the driver's seat. In front of the crane, the image of a grinning Prog-face was painted. "TIME TO GET TO FIXING!" it said, stopping just short of running the Coursers over. He would notice that the crane was carrying what looked to be a single giant bridge, fully assembled, painted in black and yellow warning colors.

-- Viruses --
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. A: DELETED
ColdHead EXColdHead EX (ColdHead)

ColdHeads alternate actions between attacking and guarding. These are the only actions ColdHeads may perform, and the first action of every battle is always guarding. ColdHeads will not break from this pattern unless forced to by status effects. ColdHeads cannot be lifted or thrown, even with Rageclaw.

Area: SciLab, Sharo, Hades Isle

HP: 100
Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Aqua + Break + Small Ice Terrain Change
Attack Accuracy: C
Attack Description: Fires Cannonball. Breaking. Creates Ice Terrain.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): IceBall1, Zenny
Special: Immobile.
- Iron Body when not attacking. B: DELETED
BasherBasher (Basher)

Basher viruses are the top-tier of the stationary gunnery viruses with an unmatched single-shot damage output among the normal viruses. They are also the rarest of their class, and appear only after battle 5. They also never appear in large numbers in a normal battle, meaning the ratio of total viruses to Bashers should be at least 4 to 1. The attack cycle of Bashers is 2 actions long, regardless of which attack they use. The first attack requires one action to charge before firing, and the second attack executes twice in succession. If they are stunned, they resume their attack cycle where it was halted once the stun wears off. They don't move, and don't dodge.

Area: Sharo

HP: 120
Primary Attack Damage/Effect: 60 Fire + Break + Panel Break x3 Targets, 1 Action Charge
Primary Attack Accuracy: A
Primary Attack Description: The virus selects up to 3 targets, and spends an action charging up the main cannons. It then fires a Magnum blast that reduces most Network constructs to ashes with a single shot, usually leaving a blast crater where they once stood. It may target empty panels and objects as well as enemies.
Secondary Attack Damage/Effect: 10 Fire x3 Targets + Double Attack
Secondary Attack Accuracy: A
Secondary Attack Description: Fires a 3-shot spread from the left arm cannon, then follows up with an identical attack from the right arm cannon just after. Each cannon shot requires an action, and both attacks must occur one after the other.
Element: Fire
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): Magnum1 (Rare), Zenny
Special: Immobile
- Main attack destroys panels, reducing enemy evasion by 1 Rank.: DELETED
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. A: DELETED
Megalian-AMegalian-A (Megalian-A)

All Megalian-A viruses are equipped with Omnishoes, and fight from the air. This virus type will spend an Action Dodging, and then Attack the following Action. If there are more than one Megalian (family does not matter) the viruses will work together, alternating their attack Actions or attacking as a group (mod's discretion). When attacking, both the head and the base can be damaged separately (if the Aura protecting the base has been destroyed).

Area: Beach, Sharo

HP: 130
Attack Damage/Effect: 40 Aqua + Break + Piercing + Group attack.
Attack Accuracy: B (special)
Attack Description: Lines up with a target and launches its head at the enemy. Accuracy decreases with each hit.
Element: Aqua
Possible Rewards (Per Virus): AuraHead1, Barrier, Zenny
Special: Omnishoes: capable of free flight.
- Dodges every other Action. Attacks when not dodging.
- Has a 10HP Aqua Aura (Pierced and destroyed by Elec attacks).
- Can be attacked while head is extended. B: DELETED

-- Navis --
Courseman.EXE: 100 HP (Snow) (Shadow, Self-Slow)

-- Other --
Mr. Prog: 100 HP (PPC Equipped: MetHelmet, 30HP Barrier) (Vehicle Equipped: ProgCrane)
ProgCrane: 1000 HP (Snow)
Needler2HP: 80
Properties: Normal, Mobile
Object Damage: 80 Null + Impact + Break
Damage Method: Ramming attack, Telekinesis, Throw
Attack Damage: 40 Null x 2 hits x 3 Targets
Accuracy: A
Description: Summons a gun platform that attacks up to 3 separate targets each turn with its trio of double spike cannons. It can also perform a defense piercing kamikaze attack.
Duration: Until destroyed.
Element: Null
Special: This chip's accuracy cannot be boosted or reduced by any means, including RP quality.
- This object may ram a target instead of firing needles, but is instantly destroyed in exchange.
- This object may dodge by trying to ram nothing, but if it hits something in this way, it is still destroyed and deals object damage.
Trader Rank: C: 80 HP (Snow) (30 HP Barrier)

-- Terrain --
20% Normal

• No effects.

(Roadway through the snow)
30% Snow

• Non-Aqua Elementals get -10% Evasion and reduced movement speed.
• Wind attacks: +100% Source Damage. Imbue Aqua if Null. Change terrain hit to Ice for 1 turn after turn hit, then back to Snow.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Ice, generate Frosty Mist: -10% Accuracy for Non-Aqua Elementals, +10% evasion against Non-Aqua Elementals, Freeze1 effect for any Aqua or Wind attacks.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Everything else up to the ravine)
10% Ice

• +10% Evasion to all. Non-Aqua Elementals get -20% Accuracy.
• Aqua attacks: 25% Freeze chance, change terrain hit to Normal if triggered. Boost chance to 100% if Ice-type.
• Elec attacks: +100% Source Damage.
• Fire attacks: Change terrain hit to Sea.
• PanelShot: Imbue Aqua + Freeze1.

(Two patches on either side of Courseman)
40% Missing

• Permanent bottomless hole.
• Doubles dodge penalties for bad RP.
• EJO if you fall in.

(Ravine)

-- Encounter 9, Victory!! --
Rewards: 3850z, 15 BugFrags (Exact Kill (+2): Basher), +1 Basher Bounty

As Courser let the hammer fade away and turned back towards the corner where the Prog had been hidden, his outfit faded back to its normal colours and styles and the shadows fell away from his body, leaving the navi standing more clearly in the open again.

“Time for another quick run, Jen, I've got a moment to question the prog here, so I should be fine. Got the list?” Beside him, his monochrome decoy shook its head at his back then disappeared with a mostly hidden smile while Courser began to walk back towards the bend. He nodded briefly at Jenny's quick murmur of agreement.

“All clear, little guy, you can...” He was cut off as the prog brought out its version of 'bridge repairs'. He stood to the side and watched it drop down the entirely new replacement bridge with a vaguely amused eyebrow. “That's certainly... efficient.” He wandered across to the edge of the ravine and looked down briefly before turning back.

“I'm guessing you don't know what destroyed it in the first place, or where it goes, do you? I've been following some pretty strange anomalies out here for a little while now...” He shrugged and looked back towards the far side then folded his hands behind his head in a relaxed pose.

“I'm probably going to go take a peek over and see what's there, but any reports you've got would be good...”

((Post one without operator))

"STEADY DOES IT..." the Prog said, as the bridge was lowered into place, perfectly fitting into place of the ravine. After doing its work, the crane raised its hook, and the loud engine slowly whirred to a halt while the Prog hopped out. "DONE!" it proudly announced, while Courseman went to inspect the place for itself. When Courseman turned back, he would find the crane already gone, with only the Prog there hovering by his side.

"SORRY! I HAVE NO RECORDS STORED ABOUT HOW THIS AREA WAS DESTROYED. I WAS ASSIGNED TO REPAIR THIS AREA WHEN IT WAS DAMAGED. THIS PATH GOES UP TO A VOLCANIC SIMULATION RESEARCH AREA, REGISTERED UNDER SHARO NETWORK ADDRESS 88:FF:11:AA:12:9A. DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?" said the Prog, all with the same smiling face it always had.