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[Mission, S] Change in Management: Side Bets
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Post by Cion on Aug 14, 2018 20:09:28 GMT
Well at least her perception had been wrong, though that still did not explain how the ironclad fella had managed to sneak into the tunnels and arrive at their secondary destination without her presence. It ultimately did not matter, but to say Cion was not curious would be a lie. Sighing, she simply accepted the patronizing comment of the stranger, not expecting much to come out of further discussions. Besides, frustration and spleen were not allowed to claim her focus.
As for other subject at hand, the floating fox calmly shrugged and responded in hushed whispers. "I thought you meant about the tunnel. Everything else... I think I remembered sufficient intel for our contacts." She stated matter-of-factly, clearly tired of the uncongenial back and forth they already had a few times. Only because he was socially inept, on purpose or not, did not mean she had to suffer his chutzpa. "Although I expect that the payload is of higher importance in comparison." She emphasized, pointing backwards at her backpack.
Speaking of which, it was time to locate the 'vulnerable' spots to attach the strange yet advanced devices to. As she followed her 'ally', gently and quietly following his every step through self-levitation, she carefully observed her surroundings. Pillars or beams that were exposed, potentially thin walls... anything that indicated structural weakness. She was not an architect and had merely assisted a couple of builders for a day in Whitewater a year ago, so it was more or less guesswork and hypothesizing. Thankfully, it appeared they were by themselves - including the constant humming. Urgh...
Darkness increased as the armored man suddenly stopped, causing Cion to do the same. Folding her arms, it was with peaked ears that she wondered what his reason was to halt and turn to face her. Were things finally getting serious, or was this but another moment of banter? "Oh... okay. Fine by me." She commented unwoundely, inquisitive to learn what her 'partner' was so excited to talk about. Too bad his lights were a bit... obnoxious... but would he at last be earnest with her?
Additional light covered him and the surrounding area, the pattern of his armor glowing intensely - that took the fennec's eyes several seconds to adapt properly to. "I don't believe I'd give a wrong answer, darling." She claimed honestly, taking pride and confidence in her path of goodwill. Perhaps her sense of justice was not 'pure' in the point of view of everyone in the digital world, but that was an impossible standard. It sufficed for almost all friends and acquaintances she knew, hence it was enough for her, too.
The power to restore & connect - and that to destroy & compress... huh, this was becoming cryptic. Raising a non-existent eyebrow, the restrained Arniomon attained the notion that something was seriously amiss with the individual facing her. However, this sentiment faded upon receiving an actual, valid reply, replacing it with visible exultation. "Ah, okaydokay." She said easygoingly, though her mind was instead screaming 'Finally something concrete from you! Was it that hard?!' - although that he need not be aware of.
It seemed her time to be sincere with the stranger had arrived. Guessing that there was no more point in beating around the bush, it was with a businesslike tone that she explained herself. Friend or foe... the terrorists had lost this night. "I guess there is no point in delaying the inevitable; so here's the truth. I intend to install the gadgets in accordance with the instructions - and then disarm them. That is why I accepted this call - countermeasure and infiltration. I did not take this group seriously... until seeing one of those C4 devices for myself..."
Now the cat was out of the bag, but it was obvious that the vulpine sentinel was not too concerned due to that. Not because of exasperation, but because she did not believe that the mysterious entity was really interested in their cause either. He had voiced his previous indifference and his desire to change the world. A supposed guardian with the sole interest of the mission going smoothly. To be fair, regardless of the silver fox's impetus, it did exactly that.
Thus her offered question was a direct as her disclosure. "What about you? You asked me if I considered myself just - and one of the good guys. Why... if you are part of this absurd, criminal ploy? You talk of troubling times, seek to make a difference, say you don't want to hurt anyone if not necessary - but don't care how nor do you appear to be affected by anything or anyone around you, physically and emotionally. You barely respond to a word I say and called me a 'weird creature'. Your behavior is erratic, almost like not even you know who you are supposed to be. So... tell me..."
Clearing her throat, Cion took in a deep breath in attempt to sort her thoughts to formulate a precise question - or two rather. "What is your stake in all of this? Why is it that you believe that planting these... things down here will prevent people from getting hurt. Because honestly... thanks to you, I'm no longer sure of anything that is happening here. Chaos begets chaos, and I am a seeker of harmony."
"... So in all of this... I wonder if you would not rather assist me and my cause than them and theirs. You'd make a positive difference instead of a negative one as I see it. Wouldn't be your personal harm, either."
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Aug 18, 2018 20:27:17 GMT
The stranger pondered Cion's answer for a few moments, tapping claw at his temple. Part of him already knew this, but at the same time he found the way the fennec phrased it needlessly long winded and frankly really dumb. It was clear she had a very fine, possible also fragile, idea of her self. Whether that held any gravity or not wasn't the primary concern here, but the sheer hubris was both mocking and admirable at the same time. "Why plant them and then disarm them? Why even bother to 'infiltrate' if your purpose was to go against the instructions?" That was something completely nonsensical to the soldier, yet there was no point in dwelling there. He seemed genuinely perplexed for a moment, then he seemingly had a "eureuka" moment, loudly proclaiming. "Ah!"
"Those old piece of plastic were barely functional, you know." An identical bag to the one you held popped out of the figure's cloak, dropping on the floor with a loud thud and spilling its contents. It was the bag you had received earlier, which could only mean one thing. "I thought I'd take a look at what the boys came up with so I swapped our bags, but as expected these would only damage a wall rather than collapse it." He mused, clearly having some knowledge on demolitions, as ell as whoever the 'boys' were supposed to be. The stranger folded his arms, bringing a claw up to his chin as he'd intensely stare at Cion during her rant. He gave a gesture that seemed to say "hurry up" with his other arm, though his posture was extremely passive, almost apathetic once more. "Mmm, psychoanalysis, huh? I told you before, I'm not good at this, and to a degree I'm not entirely sure what I'm doing either. See, there was a plan, but I decided to modify it several times over the course of this. Well, I was never part of any plan per say." He'd give quotation marks on the word 'plan', his mask winking you at you by briefly losing power to the left eye. "I'm tempted to ask what your question is, but let me just dissect that mess of words you just spewed at me. I'm... mmmm, my stake here is...." The stranger turned his back at you abruptly, shuffling under his cloak for a solid 10 seconds before he'd turn around again. He seemed very uncertain about his next words. "Oof, this is really really not going how I prepared for it, you know? Anyway, my stake in all this is that I want the operation to go smoothly. Zehahaha!" He'd pull out what looked like a toy train, though scorched, making it impossible to look at the finer details. He gave you a look that for some reason seemed smug, almost as if your question was easily answered, but after a second he'd shrug, resuming. "See, if one wanted to not hurt people and collapse the tunnels they would have to do it at both a point where there's nobody and also at an hour where it's unlikely for a train or bystanders to be caught in it. Second, if someone wanted to do all that but avoid the blame, they would have to recruit someone to take the fall for them." The stranger pointed at the invitation note that was partially hanging from the grounded pouch. "Writing a purposely bad note would only yield two outcomes. One where someone is actually gullible enough to carry the mission, create a distraction and receive the blame. The other would involve someone 'seeing though the plan'..." The stranger gave another said of air quotations during the last part. "... and attempt to foil it. Now, the later is only problematic if the person attempting to foil the mission would call for help before, ahem, trapping themselves in a tunnel with explosives."The figure pointed at Cion, his eyes narrowing as he'd give a kick to the bag on the floor, revealing a second note. A declaration of carrying out this attack as retaliation to an unspecified injustice. "In that case, I'd eliminate the problematic element, carry out the mission, and then resume with the grand plan." He'd bring a claw to his temple, letting out a groan. "The problem is - I've come to take a liking to you, so I was hoping there was some other way to settle this. I could technically still port you out of the tunnel and carry on alone, it would be a hit without a culprit, which for us is bad, but at the same time it would save us A LOT of noise." The faint sound of a train would echo in the distance, the station was becoming active again. "You're probably confused, so I'll spell it out for ya." The stranger's mood seemed to shift from serious and collected to erratic once more. "I organised this whole thing. Why? Can't tell you now, but I can assure you that this is the cleanest way to do this. If I fail, then someone else will finish the job in broad daylight. Surely you understand the implications of that." The stranger gave a sigh, the light around him dimming as he would extend the chrome arm forward toward the fennec. "Cion. Trust me when I say that all I do is for the greater good. I'm not going to call myself a good guy, but you must surely know that at this point we must make choices that others are unwilling to burden themselves with. It's the burden of the mighty to ensure the meek survive, after all." He'd let his hand fold into a fist, the golden Alpha directly in front of you. "I've told you everything. You must understand the choice you must make now. As well as the implications of that choice. Won't you join us in an effort to restore the rightful balance?"
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Post by Cion on Aug 18, 2018 22:20:20 GMT
Though usually a lady of courtesy and grace, it was hard for Cion not to chuckle as she heard the ironclad stranger's question. Had she not presented herself clearly enough to him by stating what her impetus was? Countermeasure and infiltration - not the most difficult words in her multifaceted vocabulary. "Who knows when the terrorists would have found out? Every second can be invaluable if utilized properly." She stated calmly, certain that someone of his keen intellect grasped what her motivation was. A small chance to identify the culprits - that alone sufficed for her current presence.
However, her slightly haughty simper quickly faded upon grasping the revelation that the armored chap had switched bags without her noticing. The original contents were strewn on the ground, barely functional, basic C4 and another previously hidden note that mentioned something about retaliation. So what was this - mindless vendetta? "Huh... the boys?" The restrained Arniomon spoke under her breath, several surprises claiming her mind simultaneously. ... So he was acquainted with the schemers, and he had managed to toy with her. But what logic was there behind his actions if he was perfectly capable of accomplishing this mission himself?
As to be expected, her 'partner' played down his erratic behavior; asserting it was him not used to social activity. Folding her arms, it was obvious that the floating, silver fennec was not willing to believe this halfhearted explanation - mostly because she considered him too scintillatingly witty. Yet, since he insisted on his declaration, there was no point pressing the matter further. "Never part of any plan, eh?" She asked rhetorically, finding it a tough call to accept that sentiment either. What was supposed to in front of her? A genius of spontaneity and adaptability? Not impossible, but considering the circumstances highly unlikely.
And finally, he was - hopefully honestly - going to reveal what his stake was in this whole, bizarre mess they were in. Given his sudden display of uncertainty, the possibility of him deviating from the truth was significant. Seeing the scorched Trailmon caused a visible, unmistakable frown of ire to taint her otherwise fine muzzle. As an individual who held her morals with high esteem, the notion of causing such pain and calamity gnawed at her patience. Many people deserved righteous sanction and obliteration; no doubt about that. But... mere transporters securing infrastructure? How could but one of them deserve these kinds of extreme measures?
As Cion listened carefully to the stranger's avowal, she still felt as if his aspirations were left in the dark. "So what is it now? The damaging of property or digimons? And what does it matter who does the deed?" She impugned him directly, tired of symbols and beating around the bush. It was a simple yet decisive inquiry. Naturally, she comprehended the aspect of his scheme that she, or someone else, was meant to be a disposable tool. This increased the disdain that started to manifest itself within her soul, her talons getting hungry to put a fiend out of its misery. If only things were that crude...
However, as her 'colleague' began suggesting that she was trapped with him and a bunch of explosives and that potential solutions to deal with her were destruction or planar shift, something in her stance changed. The serious, narrowed eyes he was giving her met with a wide, almost condescending smirk. It definitely said 'why not go ahead and try? See what happens...' - evidently displaying not a single spark of trepidation nor self-doubt. She had become witness of similar speeches for so many times that they had turned purportless. She was here, standing strong, tall and very much alive, even after eras worth of conflicts.
So... the metal lad had grown fond of her and sought a peaceful solution for the dispute they found themselves at? Her ears peaking at hearing the hushed noises of active machinery approaching them, the tiny fox was dissatisfied with his statement that clarification for his drive had to wait. Nevertheless he assured that his was was the best as to avoid another inducing greater harm. Of course this was, once again, difficult for the ancient sentinel to simply accept. But as he reached out arn arm to her, a strange feeling of perceived sincerity overcame her. What an impossible to comprehend fella...
Trust? In consideration of their situation at hand, that was quite a massive request. Yet, although it was for a mere blink of an eye, his words actually accomplished to penetrate her thick skin and iron will. Her gaze briefly shifted away from her target to his side, an expression of unease spoiling her cute face. Making choices that others were unwilling to do - gosh that hit close to home. Working for a big profit, establishing grand projects like Rosewood, eradicating those consumed by evil so they had the chance to reincarnate into a better existence... that was who she had become.
"Thrive... not merely survive." Cion soft-spokenly yet firmly corrected the stranger, a grave frown directed at... everything that was wrong with this blighted world. Dark corruption; crimson parasites; lethal substances - they all shared a dreadful, odious attribute. Retrogression. Mental subjugation, physical enthrallment and outright obliteration... those were the futures proposed by those who were not her. Nearly gritting her teeth, the Arniomon stared at her possible ally's fist.
"Restore the rightful balance? What did ever exist worth restoring?" She wondered with disesteem, confident that his approach was erroneous. Then again... things changed this night. Was a pseudo Tabula Rasa perhaps not the ideal way to achieve her dream of an eternal, universal Zion? Not that her solution was easy, but was it too pervicacious? Maybe, which was why she was all the more careful now. "And the planned detonations? Do you abandon your desire for things going smoothly? Speaking of which... what are those devices in the backpack you gave me?"
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Aug 22, 2018 10:53:34 GMT
The stranger waited for Cion to absorb all the information had dished out, ignoring any questions in between until he felt like he had completed his spiel. Part of him felt a sense of pride when the fennec's visage broke, showing unease. It was around that time when the masked biped noticed the earth was just barely vibrating. Perhaps a train was running in an adjacent tunnel, or perhaps the Easter Timberlands express was running a bit earlier than the board said. He reached for his Digivice, only to stop mid way. There were more pressing matters at hand.
"Survival comes first. Thriving is merely a natural byproduct of setting the foundations this world needs. Not the end game. Not at all." The figure spoke, calmly, somewhat collected, though his posture would shift, now standing upright in attention, legs positioning firmly. It was hard to tell, but he seemed to shift his centre of gravity, almost as if he was bracing for an impact.
"Initially... there was nothing. Before nothing, there was data. Before data, there was the true world. See, at first, this world was meant to mirror that, but as you might be able to tell things have gotten out of hand. True, it was never perfect, but if we restore things to a simpler time, we can reshape society as a whole. I won't say something as bold as having no Gods or masters, but it would be a society where the house doesn't necessarily win every time." His words lacked any meaning at face value, but he seemed to suggest that restoring things to their original balance didn't exactly reflect a previously existing state, but rather the conditions that were in place at the very begining things. Whatever that was supposed to mean.
"Ah, ah, ah!" The figure waved a finger tauntingly in front of Cion's face, circling it a couple of times. "Too many questions above baseline, but I'll be a good sport." The stranger extended an arm, seemingly demanding the bag he had provided the fennec with earlier back. "Mmm, like I said, this can work without a culprit. I'll just cause an accident, or perhaps a natural disaster will hit the station in a few moments. It does deviate from the original execution, but the end result will be the same. Let's not concern ourselves with how to cook our fish when we're nowhere near water."
The cloak in front of the silver fox seemed to shift on its own, fluttering in a non existent wind as it's owner pulled out what looked like a chrome blob. It was strangely both solid, yet it seemed to flow when touched. Like a liquid that was firmly bound to a centre. "You still haven't answered my question. Normally I don't enjoy repeating myself, much less nagging others, but we are running out of time here. Now, if you've been attention you know I'm not one to stall on decisions. Even if I don't enjoy their outcome one bit." That last part sounded more like a threat than anything, yet the stranger was as calm as ever, his posture signaling anticipation with a certain degree of uneasiness mixed in.
The blob of what appeared to be data seemed to flow freely when held in his palm, it's edges constantly pulling and churning toward the golden alpha at the top, only to be held in place by its core. "Devices? No. This is that stuff you, me and everything else in this God forsaken place is currently made of. Just bits and pieces of information held together by a thinnest glue. In the end of the day, as strong as you might be, you're just a bit of something stuck on a piece of something else." The stranger abruptly clenched his fist, producing an extremely unpleasant hiss from the blob momentarily before complete silence fell once more. "It's important to remember this before expecting anything better." The figure cackled. "If you compress data long enough it eventually just becomes a mass of information and not much more. Luckily that information can be re-purposed to interact with the rest of the world. This was... mmm, I don't remember exactly what sort of Digimon this came from, but now it's a tool that lets me 'bend the rules a little bit'." The stranger would unlench his fist, revealing nothing where the orb once were. Instead, his hand seemed to radiate a glow that was bright to look at, yet somehow didn't illuminate the area. "So, do you embrace the future I propose? Or do you reject it?"
The question was simple, sharp and anticlimactic. The figure seemed to stare at his glowing hand, holding it close to his mask. "So many choices, so little time.~ I wonder, I wonder what your answer will be. Oh, oh, I wonder what will happen if I were to rearrange this entire place." He seemed to paused for a few moments, clearly pleased with himself before he'd seemingly snap out of it, lowering his hand. "Sorry, I always get overzealous before, but I need that excitement."
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Post by Cion on Aug 22, 2018 21:28:00 GMT
Of course the ironclad deceiver ignored the questions she posed - having no desire to answer them unless she accepted to become a part of his feverish, reckless cause. Naturally there was also the factor that a Trailmon steadily approached them from afar, imposing on them an unclear yet likely small time frame. As for his point of view directed at her comment, Cion did not find herself nodding in agreement to it. Survival was already well established where it mattered, but universal laws had to be put into reality as to enable thriving. What he called a byproduct she perceived as the quintessence aspects such as prosperity, harmony and ascent required to function.
However, this was not the right place to discuss opinions for the restrained Arnionon was facing one of the most difficult decisions she ever had to make throughout her countless centuries of varying existences. Carefully, both her mind and soul absorbed every bit of information in front of her as to allow her to form a true consensus. This was far too important to be taken lightly as it was bound to affect innumerable people - digimons and humans alike. Would she oppose someone who held a similar impetus, or assist him and attempt to push it towards its best possible outcome?
The sheen within the silver fennec's dark eyes constantly swayed back and forth, up and down akin to a machine performing a rudimentary task. In her case, the job was assessment and decision-making. Her 'partner's' tale was... strange, yet she comprehended it. A conservative, thought-out Tabula Rasa that returned the world into a state of moldability. Removing its taint and empowering its purity... yes, that indeed resembled her highly unrealistic dream. But, as pleasant as the idea was, it seemed the stranger was not sure how to execute it either.
Annoyed by his finger wagging, the ancient sentinel sighed and did as requested out of courtesy, returning the bag to him. A risky move, but it wasn't like she did not have the blueprints of them if things got out out of control in this underground wasteland of ferroconcrete. The sentiments of crimes without a clear culprit or 'natural disasters' caused grave strain on her spirit, uncertainty, goodwill and defiance tearing at each other in a violent maelstrom of emotions and eventualities. He was radical - so much was obvious. She detested this characteristic, though she honestly wondered if it was in truth necessary. She... did not know.
Watching the observer's cloak with hidden curiosity, the chrome blob actually managed to distress her greatly. Not that Cion was willing to display that, preferring to keep her demeanor of an ice-cold, calculating master of her game, but she grasped that it was a potential threat to herself and the subway. Unimpressed by his 'harsh statements', the vulpine mercenary noticed from his stance that precariousness clouded his system. As strong as he tried to present himself as, he was just as solicitous as her. As stated by him, a clash was not an optimal conclusion. She agreed with that.
As for the explanation of the devices she had carried with her for a while, it was rather dissatisfying. Beyond his... temporary outburst of philosophical pessimism... the capabilities of them genuinely astonished her. Formable data that could be utilized for practically anything? What versatile yet probably dangerous objects of vague application. Were they meant to be forged into explosives? Ultimately, the tiny fox was left with a definitive question she did not respond to immediately. As pressed for seconds they were, this was not a choice that had to made in a hurry.
Not reacting in the slightest to the stranger's teasing, haughty remarks, it was plain as day that she was lost in her thoughts. As loutish and self-absorbed as she regarded him as, he presumably bore a hint of understanding for the crucial crossroad she faced. Whatever he offered was adulterated by hubris, intent to mislead, extremism, organized crime, violence, inappropriate lightheartedness and a general sense of apathy for others and an inflated ego. Was this an individual she ought to pay attention to?
Every friend she had encountered thus far had an almost fatalistic mindset to them, clearly accepting the status quo and doing little to change it in any significant way. They believed that the occasional good deed sufficed to lead this realm to everlasting peace. Some she once knew as valiant paladins had apparently even resigned their honorful duty to solely pursue personal desires... like Owen, the anchor that had given her a solid footing for well-nigh her entire existence. He had a family of which she was a part of, but was it worth sacrificing the well-being of uncountable outsiders in need of a helping hand?
And villains merely proposed cruelty and despotism. The D-Reaper in its naturalism and the black corruption were no different from thousands of avaricious, fanatic tyrants - they were a dead end. If nothing else, she currently found herself in the presence of an entity that was unwilling to accept this continuing, refusing to stand idly by as their planet got torn apart. In this aspect it appeared they were kindred. "Why now? Why not sooner?" She barely managed to not whisper these words, curious about the watcher's sudden drive to interfere.
Looking him straight into his masked, yellow eyes, Cion understood that she still had to answer his decisive question. However, she did not accept his two declared conditions. "Neither nor." Was her firm, sincere response. If there was but an ounce of propriety and patience in him, he'd let her finish explaining herself. "Don't think of me as credulous. Any future is like your goo of data - adaptable. If it is mindless lackeys you crave then you have misjudged me. But..." She paused, nearly unable to believe that she was even humoring the idea.
"... if you want a partner that will provide not only assistance but ingenuous feedback and input... then I am willing to take heed of you as well." Swallowing a heavy chunk stuck in her throat, the innermost arduousness this choice others were reluctant to burden themselves with imposed was evident. In the tone of her voice, she vowed mutual regret if this was a cunning ruse. Yet... if he did not deny her, she reached out a hand to him, disposed to take his as offered.
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Aug 24, 2018 17:11:11 GMT
The stranger shrugged, holding his charged arm out as he'd bring the other to his 'chin'. "Now was the time for me to exist again. I had no control over it. We are a little more than pawns on this grand stage, but still bound by it." His replies were at least consistent in being nonsensical. It would have been at least felt satisfying to hear his 'wisdom' if it wasn't painfully aware that he didn't seem to care about his role in this at all. Sure, he was aware of his part, but didn't seem to question it.
He'd give Cion a few moments to process everything, returning to his humming as his attention would shift to the wall of the tunnel. He seemed to be inspecting something, almost as if feeling the very foundations. It wasn't until the fennect replied that he would snap back to attention, his head rotating toward her much fast than the rest of his body in something that would have given any normal person a heart attack. He'd wait a few seconds, frozen in place as the other finished. Only after an awkward amount of time had passed did the stranger seem to reanimate.
"Mmm. You have misjudged me. I'm not looking for anyone to rule over. Neither am I interested in mindless drones. I invite you, because I know you will challenge me, and in that challenge, I will achieve my goals."The figure cackled, his gaze falling on the extended hand, though he wouldn't reach for it. "I wouldn't shake hands right now, but..."A thread of the cloak suddenly ceased it's seemingly fluid motion to extend forward, warping around the fennec's paw."This will do."If allowed, the thread would tighten, not in a painful manner, but it would keep the two linked together.
"How do I know I can trust you? How do you know you can trust me? I propose we exchange a bit more about ourselves. What do you say? Shall I speed up our mission a little bit? We might have to delete a Digimon or two, but in 20 minutes or so, we can both enjoy some good music and a drink." The stranger winked at you. It was impossible to tell, but for some reason it seemed like he was grinning widely. "What's the thing that you would say is your attachment to this world? What's your reason for pushing when things seem shitty? Don't answer yet, think on it."
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Post by Cion on Aug 26, 2018 18:04:41 GMT
The time for him to exist again - a lack of control over his own destiny - pawns of a grand scheme who are bound by it. While certain that the stranger's sense of purpose and fatalism were sincere, it was obvious from Cion's expression that she defied these notions. She utterly refused to not be the master of her will and path that had led her to this crucial moments. Schemers or not, her choices were none other but hers, as was her devotion to the digital realm. Anyone who tried to take her power of volition away from her would grasp how unswerving her self-determined steps were. She was not an apathetic automaton.
Unfazed by her potential ally's bizarre way of carrying himself, nor the delay that occurred between responses, she merely listened as her agitated, confused soul slowly simmered down. Whatever he belonged to did not expect mere mindless drones to follow commands, but actual contribution through heart, mind and candor. Unfortunately, challenging him was by far the easiest task in their global, ultimate aspiration to alter the fate of this world. " 'Your' goals?" She questioned him with a unfittingly quizzical yet kind tone to her voice, wondering if he was not truly indifferent towards everything.
Somewhat disappointed that the ironclad man was too 'coy' to shake hands as a sign of trust, the restrained Arniomon simply sighed and accepted the piece of cloth as an alternative. Allowing it to wind around her paw, the silver fennec could not help herself but chuckle when the sentiment of mutual distrust suddenly erupted out of nowhere, making her roll her eyes. A bit late for doubts after all that had been said and done, was it not?
"No - we have time. All measures to assure minimal casualties will be taken." Was her firm answer to his cold-hearted, reckless suggestion, keenly challenging him as requested. "Despite what we do today, we should not attain overwhelming odium of the general population." She stated, confident that a utopia could neither be forged nor eternized if the people within it were constantly antagonizing their liberators. "Besides, I'd need a black tea due to sleep deprivation, no drinks" She added, implicitly expressing her distaste for inebriating substances. She never understood why digimons and humans alike chose to utilize these things to ruin themselves.
Responding to the wink with a faint smile, the current circumstances and changes still visibly affecting her, she carefully payed attention to the philosophical question posed. Although he had told her to cogitate her answer, Cion only needed a single second to form her reply. The way she said it was akin to a mother promising her child to be always by its side - filled with unadulterated passion, unending self-abandonment and unyielding sincerity; aspects she did not mind letting anyone comprehend. "The smiles of those I hold dear to my core."
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Aug 30, 2018 11:19:32 GMT
The stranger threw an off gesture again, this time accompanied by a 'bah' sound as he'd completely dismiss the question. His goals were bets kept secret at the moment. He wouldn't be lying to Cion either given that the rest of the spiel he had delivered was mostly unrelated. In the end he was trying to build his own version of a Utopia, or at least that's what most would gather. He himself was quite unsure on that. The humming of a now approaching Trailmon grew louder and louder behind the duo. The entire tunnel shook as finally, the only source of light that wasn't the stranger appeared several meters behind them. They still had time before the train would reach, though one would have to make haste if they hopped to outrun it to the platform. The masked figure remained still however. "Figures it would be running early." His speech was calm and collected, almost amused at the notion of missing something so grave in his initial plan. He'd shrug. "Maybe a bit of a cliche, but we could also stop this train, thus causing enough damage to the tunnels that way. Alternatively I can put a wall between us and the train, wrecking it that way." He'd pause for a moment, his eyes narrowing for a moment as the same hyper mannerisms would re-emerge. "Oh! Maybe I can put a wall behind us. That way you can show me what you've got!" Without much warning, the stranger would do just that. It happened in an instant.The moment his previously glowing, chrome arm would touch the wall behind them, it would phase through, almost as if entering a body of water, something that would be further reinforced as the whole structured around them pulsed. As if fluid, the wall extended, forming a barrier behind them. The structure seemed identical to the rest of the tunnel, almost as if was designed to be that way. "Viesca!""Alright, now let's, um, not attain the general population and protect them smiles." The mechanical figure touched the wall once more, creating a slight depression, just big enough so he could take an awkward seat. Finally, Cion would be able to see his legs sticking out from the cloak just barely. Heavy steel boots, with spiked tips. The rest was pitch black armour, though much plainer than his arms were. "You'll get a kick out of this; I can tank the full impact of that thing, so I'll just wait it out. But, you should probably do something." Clearly a challenge. The stranger wanted to test Cion's ability to adapt and make fast decisions. Though, an equal part of that was genuine curiosity about her strength. A few seconds later, the bright light of a Locomon would be visible up ahead, it's powerful whistle echoing through the tunnel. The entire tunnel shook, the vibrations being made more intense due to the sealed off section. Cion would have to breach the gap and bring it to a halt before the collision, otherwise the entire network could come crushing down. The stranger on the other hand was busy maiing his little nesting spot more comfortable.
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Post by Cion on Sept 11, 2018 17:54:36 GMT
Teheh... of course the nameless strange brushed her nosy question aside, though that hardly bothered Cion. On the contrary, it bolstered her 'human' worth to their ambitions, assuring her that her contributions were bound to be valuable. Neither of them was perfect, but that did not mean perfection was not attainable by utilizing several points of views. Thesis and antithesis creating synthesis - philosophy turned into potential which in turn could be molded into reality. Beyond this, it was the hope for a better world and future that had determined her final decision.
Speaking of what was real and what as not, the approaching threat of a high-speed Locomon colliding with them became a certainty if they did not interfere with that calamity. Not that the restrained Arniomon was afraid or showed trepidation, but she preferred to finish this endeavor with minimal pain and maximum success. Listening to the ironclad person's suggestions, the silver fennec rolled her eyes yet again, frustrated by his typical recklessness and shortsightedness. However, upon hearing his desire to initiate a figurative trial by fire, her gaze widened in brief bafflement. Bad timing, was it not?
Watching the one she called darling duplicate and bend ferroconcrete at his will, she quickly grasped that an artificial extension of a wall blocked their escape route. Naturally, he'd make himself while the vulpine sentinel had to do all the work. Not only that, but he was also dead wrong with his assumption that this hazardous situation thrilled her. Purposeful fabricating challenges was a waste of time and resources. Alas, her current right to a say in this matter was zero. Sighing, clear tedium overcame her muzzle as he suggested her to prevent the impending 'doom'. "You should really stop patronizing others." She proposed kindly, tired of his dismissive attitude.
Shrugging, Cion's composed look and ears tilted to the incoming, mechanical digimon that was countless times larger and heavier than her. Even throughout the entire tunnel shaking like a sailing ship caught in a storm, her calm stance did not waver the slightest. Resting her hands behind her back and above her voluminous, white tail, the small fox exhaled through her tiny nose as a rapid pulse escaped her frame. An iridescent aura engulfed her paws and the edges of her eyes as space-time immediately distorted drastically around her involuntary opposer.
A power likely never experienced before would befall it from its top and front, counteracting its ability to move. Diagonal gravity extended to such an extent that digimons rivaling her nature as an apex of their kind were stuck prey in her zone akin to a fly caught by a spider's web. No matters its mass, what was a mere Ultimate supposed to do against her inescapable sway? Would it be able to traverse with doubled gravitational force, affecting its effective weight in equal measures. How about tripled strain - or tenfold and far beyond? When would it relinquish to broken laws of physics and come to a sudden halt?
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Sept 20, 2018 18:50:04 GMT
The Trailmon froze in place, coming to a complete halt in front of Cion. Of course, being forced into stillness abruptly without anything to impact didn't sit well with the laws of physics. It was hard to tell as the machine Digimon couldn't perform facial expression, not it could speak it seemed, but you could tell it was in pain just by looking at it. From behind you could hear a patronising, slow clap echo through the tunnel now that the train had died down. The stranger finally stood up, leaning over the small fennec. He was standing close enough that any arguments about him having a sense of personal space would instantly fail. "Not bad, but this will not do." A hand would touch the top of Cion's head, casually pushing her to the side, as the armoured creature would step forward. His arms would rest on his hips in a cowboy position that seemed to serve little besides obstructing the path. "See, the point was to cause damage." He'd sigh louder than he intended to, pausing to look at the fennec over his shoulder for a few seconds before shrugging. "Eh, it's a coin toss really. Unfortunately, I always lose these things."
Without much of an indication, or any room to react, the stranger pulled out what looked like a golden pistol and aimed it in front of him. In less than a second the trigger would be pulled, yet what came out wasn't a bullet, or at least that was the impression one would get. It was impossible to see exactly what had happened, only that prior to his movement there was a Trailmon surrounded by a tunnel in front of him and the next there was simply... dust, ashes, cinder, it was impossible to tell. The sound that weapon produced was more than any explosive could have. A split second later the dust wave would surge forward, but if Cion stuck around the position her partner put her in, that was directly behind him, - she'd find that the dust completely circumvented her as it seemed to purposely avoid his cloak. Even the sheer force of the air escaping the tunnel wasn't enough to cause his cloak to flutter. "Ara Coeli." His voice was totally calm, yet echoing. "Now everyone knows." If Cion was fast enough to notice it before he spoke, she'd see that his eyes were a bright red instead of the yellow they would be when he turned around. "We are going to have to make an escape, but before that let me tell you a few things. If we are to reshape this world, we must not hesitate. Even if it means doing this." Now that the dust cloud would settle down, all that would be left of the tunnel, and frankly the Trailmon, would be a hole much larger than the tunnel itself stretching as far as the eye could see in the darkness, illuminated only by the smouldering walls. Whatever that attack was, it could generate destruction on an unprecedented level. Once a tunnel, now was nothing more than a glorified burning crater filling with ash. "I can't do that!" Came a voice, following a crude imitation of what Cion sounded like in the stranger's mind. "I'm not asking you. It's nothing personal, I like you, and I like this place." He paused, pondering for a second. "Liked would have been a better word there. Look, I think you and I could really, genuinely pull this off. You're strong, but being strong means making tough choices. Sure, you can walk out, make a huge fuss about it with security and in the end of the day get your name in a silver tabled behind the station for Numemon to shit on. I guarantee you that not even 24 hours later some other horrible thing will happen, and then you can save the day again. And again. AND AGAIN! Until you give up, or you know, kick that shiny bucket of yours." The stranger seemed much more animated than usual, much angrier.If Cion tried to cut him off at any point during his rant, he would simply say "I'll tell you when it's your turn to speak" and carry on. "So, what's it going to be? That's a trick question. I already know you know the right choice here. I know it's tough, but if the people you want to protect truly care about you, or you know, have a grip on what's happening, they'll understand." The figured forced his way forward, passing the fennec. "I have this kind of conversation once a week. This one was good. Productive. If you're lucky; I'll never talk to you again. Now, let's get out of here before the entire security force arrives." The stranger would reach forward, clasping something unseen as the walls behind him seemed to shift, bending into eachother. He'd wait for a response, staring Cion down.
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Post by Cion on Sept 20, 2018 20:21:17 GMT
Simple, efficient, glorious - that was the way Cion enjoyed accomplishing her tasks. The Trailmon, though likely in an immovable state of pain, was very much alive and capable of fulfilling its duties in the near future. The optimal solution to their little problem. However, to the restrained Arniomon's great deprecation, the stranger did only sarcastically approve of her deed. Vexed by his slow clapping and intrusion into her personal space, she scoffed at his discontent. "Jealous of my ability to solve problems peacefully?" She asked snarkily, mocking and challenging his brutish, inadequate single-mindedness.
Not appreciating his hand on her head unlike the touch of those whose company she appreciated, "A point needs an impetus - which you did not bother sharing with me. What will damage possibly accomplish?" She question the ironclad digimon's methods and intentions. Although agreeing with the sentiment that most were unwilling to make difficult decisions, that did not permit mindless havoc. Prepared to have another duel of ideals with him, that struggle was unfortunately denied as the self-proclaimed revolutionist pulled out a golden pistol. Her eyes widened, yet she was incapable of interfering in time.
Ears briefly deafened by the booming echoes of a single blast, the tiny fox did not even flinch as the surge of cinder and debris whizzed past them. As quickly as the destruction came it ceased, leaving behind a vast crater and words that deserved nothing less than utmost scorn, if not odium. His temporarily crimson pupils was paltry compared to the 'boiling blood' raging within her system. "Unnecessary..." She spoke under her breath, sharp syllables tearing through the gaps between her vulpine maw's teeth.
With each passing second, any credibility she had granted the misguided soul in front of her faded for despisement. If it was not for his violent act of senseless ruination, they would not have to make an escape. The supposedly tough choices were asinine at best, psychopathic at worst. And... was he still patronizing her? Seriously, this jackass had to quit or things were bound to become quite personal. Willing to let the stranger for he was unusually animated, Cion eventually took the chance and tossed her facade of a sophisticated lady of goodwill aside.
Stepping forward, she gladly spoke to him with noses pressed against each other. "Who do you think I am, huh? Some fatuous dilettante, merely out for renown, you can play with at your leisure? Because here is something for you... you will never pull off anything if you continue being what you allegedly try to counteract - out of hand." The ancient spirit relentlessly excoriated him and his inanity... challenging him as desired. "... Wise and right choices are the only that enable a good future, not hard ones like pointless murder." She criticized his notions again, confident his approach is completely erroneous. ... Not that he had made an effort to explain himself.
Groaning, the floating fennec tilted her head away from his, unable to believe that she was still intrigued by his drives. If it was anyone else, she would have appropriately sanctioned him for his inhumane crime. For now however... her weltschmerz and despair permitted her to turn a blind eye with the hope that she could alter their currently joined path to a truly righteous one. "Good and productive my tail. But yes, let us leave."
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Sept 21, 2018 22:36:27 GMT
The stranger truned his head, his hand still in position.He'd stare at Cion as she spoke, coldly, without a shred of emotion clouding his normally unflinching face. The figure listened,not interrupting for once as the speech resumed. He'd slowly raise his other hand, holding a sleek looking communicator. While maintaining full eye contact, the button of the device would be pressed, making a hissing noise. "Hive lord, come in. Mission was successful, but change of plans. The subject is tagging along instead, prepare some 'refreshments' but nothing too strong because we're dealing with a type C." He'd briefly lower his hand, eye contact still maintained, though he was clearly not paying attention. "This is Alagus by the way. The Godseeker. I guess that was obvious." He'd lower the communicator once more, only to insistently pull it up again. "Over."From the distance, through the gaps of the now almost obliterated stone wall behind them,heavy foot steps and commotion could be heard. It was likely that every available force of the station, including the captain of the guard, was heading their way. Alagus, tapped the side tubes of his mask, adjusting them as he would use his other arm to pull his hood up. "You only see me because I choose to allow you to. If I were to leave you now - this would not end well, no matter how strong you think you are. If you have any pointers for me; I'll gladly listen, over a drink, at my bar." He'd raise a finger, pointing at the crumbling wall. "Or do you want to fight them? I'll pay you extra if you take them all out, how about that? Otherwise, given that I did most of the work, I'll have to deduct some of your payment." The stranger clearly was in his own tempo, much like before, it felt like he had a pre-fixed amount of things to say when certain conditions were met that he would blurt out regardless of the situation. It almost felt like he was just a machine. "Nothing I do is pointless. Getting you here had a purpose too. Now, what is your choice?" That line came out of nowhere. It almost felt unnatural for the stranger to speak directly for once, almost eerie. His hand would eventually clasp, the wall behind him twisting until different segments of rock were but one blurred mess. A fraction of a second later what appeared to be a portal had sprung where the wall once stood. It was large enough to fit him and oval in shape. You could see a deep, clear blue from the other side as a cold, yet refreshing, breeze began to fill the tunnel. "Fox's first."
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Post by Cion on Sept 23, 2018 15:24:41 GMT
Apathy... really? Was this thing actually a digimon, or just a construct - a machine designed for nothing but to fulfill a task? Certainly it was capable of faking emotions and desires, but it was not truly experiencing any of them as to not have his actions and judgment clouded, right? If that was the case, then Cion was bound to have an intense conversation with whoever or whatever built this crude unit. Hissing quietly, she shook herself as the stranger picked up its communication device to contacts its allies - people who were probably as dispassionate as the bloke next to her.
Hive lord... that title was not at all a foreboding. Almost sneering, the restrained Arniomon still could not believe that she got herself dragged into this mess. Every fiber of her digital frame was on red alert, begging her to stop the phantom menace by her side. Yet... for once, it was her own will that decided her path, not the influence of outside forces. Despite the ironclad entity's obvious inanity and lack of morals, he remained a potentially valuable tool to achieving her dreams regardless. Besides, if anyone was qualified to sway the course of an organization towards something better, it was her. PROFIT was her proof.
"Type C, eh? Another enigma of the mystery-monga." She responded sarcastically in an attempt to both find a bit of satisfaction in their endeavor and to vent. As for Atagus the Godseeker - her first impression was that of disappointment. A future deity of ruin and inebriation? Yeah... that was exactly what this realm depended on to survive and thrive. Sighing, the distant noises of commotion, though surprising that they already appeared, barely affected her mood or stance. There was always more trouble to come, not?
"Fight them?" She tilted her head to face her accomplice, questioning what was going on inside his mind - if anything of his own there to begin with. "No. As I said, all measures to assure minimal casualties will be taken." The silver fennec answered firmly, clearly indifferent to the threats of pay cuts. Neither was she afraid of an encounter, but she was not out for blood money by taking out the innocent and never would be. "More like made things unnecessarily difficult for everyone." The vulpine sentinel commented matter-of-factly, seeing no objective nor subjective value in the stranger's deeds. Thankfully, he was a numb soul, hence he likely did not care for her bold statements.
Which caused his final averment to be quite amusing and not eerie to Cion - naturally for extremely wrong reasons. "We'll see." Was her small fox's remark, knowing that her original purpose was that of a scapegoat and letting him know that with a wintry smile. Standing true to her moral and decision, the Arniomon at least appreciated her 'partner' opening a gate that seemingly led to a watery area.
Accepting his offer, she instead took it to tightly embrace his metal shoulders and neck, taking him as a ride. "Is your opinion of me really that low?" She asked with an almost sportive tone to her voice. Maybe she was starry-eyed, but not that naive to trust him. After this unique night. But to be fair, possible antipathy was mutual. "Please, lead the way." She requested unusually kindly.
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Post by Dustin & Theo on Sept 23, 2018 21:55:46 GMT
The stranger clicked his teeth, loud enough to be heard though his respirator as he gave the portal a swirl, the contents shifting ever so slightly. As Cion leapt on him, she wouldn't feel anything hard. Instead, the cloak seemed to curl around the area she'd have landed on, gently pushing her back, but still providing an area to hold on ti. Meanwhile, the circular motions around the portal would resyme. The stranger was seemingly unconcerned about the impending danger as he would reach for the c4 filled pouch he had previously taken from Cion. "Type C for total cu-" Before he could finish, the portal would shift to an aerial view of the station, a dust cloud emanating from the entrance. The figure gave a whistle at his own handy work, forgetting to finish his previous sentence. It was obvious that the initial portal was spawned above the clouds for some reason, but the location would keep shifting and shifting, gradually getting closer to the ground. Eventually, what looked like a wooden wall would be displayed. "Pfft, suit yourself. I just need reasons to justify these expenses, and hive lord would probably appreciate it if I brought you with a story about how you valiantly defended our escape... well, he probably wouldn't buy it, but he would appreciate you willing to play along with me." Alagus mused as he readied himself to dive forward, hunching slightly to the front. His other arm would casually fling the now beeping sack toward the semi ruined wall before the leap. "In a while, crocodile!"Suddenly, there would be no more tunnels, no more commotion and the smell of alcohol would fill the air. A smooth tune would fill the air of the dimly lit room. The windows were closed, and so the interior was somewhat dark. People who were used to the light outside would probably not be able to see their hands stretched out in front of their faces. However, as one would make their way closer to the bar, several candles would illuminate the counter, but not much more. The inside of the building was quite spacious. The first floor was a dining area, with a counter further within. That counter was backed by shelves that contained dozens of bottles of alcohol. The door beside the counter most likely led to a kitchen, though something about the door seemed odd. It appeared to be in much more pristine condition than anything else in the bar, it's heavy, steel frame suggesting it was the entrance to a bunker rather than a kitchen. A spiral staircase turned up in the corner of the dining area. Guest rooms were located on the second and third floors. The bar was competently empty besides a Datamon who was busy washing glasses with a blank, yet worried look on its face. At least that seemed to be the case until one noticed the Keramon sitting by the shut door, staring at a flickering candle. ".klat dluohs eW .llac ruoy deviecer I .sugalA" When the Keramon spoke, what came out didn't sound right. It was disturbing in nature. It sounded as if someone spoke backwards, then recorded that and played it backwards, yet his mouth seemed to mirror the words as if they were spoken forward. If that wasn't enough, his body language was also reversed - beginning with a beckoning and ending with a wave. "Ru-roh. This can wait, I need Muggy to fix me a drink." The stranger pointed a pair of finger guns at the Datamon, causing it to produce a frustrated groan. "YOU WON'T DRINK IT! YOU WILL JUST DIRTY THE GLASS AND THEN MAKE THAT STUPID ELEPHANT NOISE LIKE ALWAYS." Despite his outburst, the machine began to pour something out of a vial regardless. Alagus pinched either side of his breathing tubes before blowing out. "PHRÖÖÖÖÖÖÖÖÖ!"After that, the stranger walked toward the bar, completely ignoring you. The Keramon was intently staring at you. !elyts ni kcab gnimoc si ekil yllaer uoy mug taht ;uoy rof swen doog evah I .retlehs bmob eht ot emocleW"Once more, the sentence began with a slap of the table and ended with a bow in a reverse fashion.
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Post by Cion on Sept 24, 2018 16:55:06 GMT
Though obviously not appreciating some of the images she was made to behold through the portal the stranger had conjured, Cion smirked upon hearing him briefly losing his poise. "Is that so?" She asked rhetorically, chuckling once without expecting an answer. It seemed that the lad was not as apathetic as he claimed to be, which was both good and bad. That either meant he had a soul that could be nudged towards a righteous path, or he was inherently mentally disturbed considering today's events. Whatever was the case with him and his group of supposed saviors, she'd react accordingly.
Listening to the ironclad digimon's justifications, the tiny fennec merely rolled her eyes and actually agreed with one of the points he put forth. "He'd not believe it - exactly because I don't just keep quiet and play along. Remember though... you sought that" She kindly reminded him of her method that was challenging each and every step of the crude road they traveled on. Who the receiver of her critique was... that was clearly of no concern to the vulpine sentinel. No matter, it was time to get a move on and bring light to this strange mystery. Paying neither comment nor insignificant explosives attention, she held tight Alagus.
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The landing was gentle as the unlikely duo arrived at a shady inn. Letting go off her ride as she hopped onto the floor, Cion carefully and calmly inspected her surroundings. A perpetual stench of decay and inebriation, a gloomy atmosphere lit by candles - dark even for nighttime, clichéd music and remoteness. So... a spacious pub was the cradle of palingenesis? "Oh dear..." The restrained Arniomon spoke under her breath, golden irises glistening in the darkness. Honestly speaking, it was... amusing. Perhaps this was precisely what the digital realm deserved. Not all of it, but plenty.
Still, the sight of what appeared to be the entrance to an underground shelter of sorts intrigued her. Was this diner a mere facade? Clearing her throat, the small fox eavesdropped on the conversation that included a Keramon that spoke nearly incomprehensible lingo and a vociferous Datamon. Those were likely the brave new world's heralds, eh? At least the hulking bomber's charming blaring complemented this encounter perfectly. ... Ruroh and Muggy were their names? "Pleased to meet you. I'm Cion." She undemonstratively introduced herself as Alagus did his thing. Everyone thankfully consented that it was not funny.
Feeling addressed by the Keramon, the silver mammal looked at it with curiosity, slowly comprehending what its ghastly voice tried to convey to her. "Thanks for the welcome... but I can't recall any gum I really like." She replied chummily, hoping this interaction was more pleasant that many with the paladin of steel.
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