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Tense Negotiations - Demon Lords 1B (Toki, Katsura, Adrian)
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Post by Adrian Boriker on Apr 21, 2019 2:25:55 GMT
Adrian didn't know whether or not he should be offended by GranDracmon's statement about humans all look the same. On one hand, he obviously knew that very few two humans looked exactly alike and he wanted to voice that. On the other hand... he honestly wouldn't be able to pull out one specific Digimon from a group of the same species if he even tried, so GranDracmon kind of had a point.
He then went on about the worth of titles, something about being honest or how you want others to judge you. "I would prefer people judge me after they get to know me. Humans don't really enjoy being told how they should react or how they're supposed to feel about someone."
"Yeah, titles are kind of unnecessary for us," Shoutmon commented, "although sometimes they fit for certain others, right?"
Now was when GranDracmon explained this proposal that he had brought up earlier. In short, the Digimon was practically suggesting that they all give up on the Demon Lords and just let them rule without a care in the world. Obviously, no one was truly happy or accepting about this, especially Toki. He gave a whole speech to GranDracmon about how the Digimon should choose their leaders, and how his solution was completely ridiculous. In response, Katsura and Nyao stood beside Toki as well.
And Adrian and Shoutmon stood up as well, alongside Toki and Katsura.
"Toki is right, respect should be earned, not be a birthright," Adrian explained with a grim look on his face. "I don't know how you think politics work, but in the human world we don't just let people take over other places. People and countries have tried in the past, and you know what happened to them? Utter defeat and a country left in shambles. And if you think we're just going to let the Demon Lords walk all over us and take over the Digital World, then you all severely underestimate us."
While Adrian still wanted to be civil and discuss, he knew much better than that. He was prepared for GranDracmon to start attacking if he wished to do so...
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Post by Bonetrousled? on Apr 23, 2019 0:15:35 GMT
GranDracmon seemed to be rolling his eyes at Katsura's question. Sure, his eyes were perpetually covered by some kind of weird purple chitin, but the exaggerated motion of his head made it all too clear what he was trying to say. "Because my neck scruff is more properly coiffed, my elbow spines are sharpened to a shine, and there's a debonair look in my eye," he explained. "And any Rookie knows the width of the tail bands, shape of the ears, and jaw structure are telltale ways of telling Guilmon apart. But surely you've noticed this, no?" At least, it seemed to a Digimon that telling Digimon apart was easier than telling humans apart. How odd.
GranDracmon's pettiness settled, he sat back down to listen to the humans' reception of his ideas. Surprise surprise, they were very against it. However, he didn't seem too distraught about Toki, Katsura, and Adrian thrashing his idea to pieces. In fact, judging by his ear-to-ear smile, he was welcoming it! "Very good, very good," he said as they continued. "It's always a pleasure to know the world won't just roll over and die. To lose its spark that severely would be such a shame, don't you think? No, no, this is far more interesting.
I could drone on about the subtleties of my masters' desires, but surely you don't want to hear me talk. No, you seem quite against what I bring to the table, so I won't trouble either of us with the attempt at convincing you. Instead, why don't you educate me more about your viewpoint?
Democracy. Choice. Quite interesting terms. Yet, how well would they work for Digimon, do you think? As far as I can tell, all of you humans are created equal. You have the same needs. You have the same aptitude. You have the same opportunity. Yet, clearly, this is not the case for us." GranDracmon gestured to the room around him. "Look at this room. It's simply too big for me. Why, I almost banged my head standing up to greet you all! Yet I'm sure it's sized perfectly for the angels that reside in it. And change is so hard, and so expensive, too. Why should the satisfied majority waste all of that on making sure I don't get a headache?
Now imagine this on the scale of entire cities, with every type of Digimon talking over one another to make their voices heard. Do we carve canals into Terminus City so the Seadramon can get around? Do we make our buildings larger for the Ginkakumon, or smaller for the Mamemon? Do we expand the sanctuaries of the Village of Beginnings and Spartan Training Grounds, or keep it wild and free for more bestial Digimon to roam in? How can one voice, one decision, represent the interests of these countless unique beings?
And more importantly, what happens if one doesn't want to play along? A human can only do so much. But a Digimon . . . well, let's just say a dispute between an itty-bitty little Terriermon and a WarGreymon can only go one way. Laws stop those who allow themselves to be stopped, and unless the Digital World's mightiest all conscript themselves into the police force, what happens when someone they can't handle emerges?
But my final question is this. What of you, outworlders? For the essential service you provide to the Digital World, do you believe you should have a say? Or should only those who live here be given the privilege? And what of the partnered Digimon that travel between worlds, bound to humanity? Is their vote too compromised by human interest, or should they be given sway over the land of their origins?"
For a Digimon who had started this conversation so one-sided, GranDracmon actually seemed quite interested in what Toki, Katsura, and Adrian would have to say.
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Post by Toki Akiyama on Apr 23, 2019 8:45:57 GMT
GranDracmon's words rang true, and Toki found himself nodding as the Digimon spoke "Your concerns with our suggestion are valid, and I wouldn't dream of thinking otherwise. I'm glad you're willing to listen to our viewpoints and suggestions on the matter, so allow me to thank you for this opportunity."
He brushed his chin lightly as he thought about how he could answer, the orbs around him floating idly in a small pattern. Then, he smiled "Well consider this. What if Digimon actually are equal on a fundamental level? There is more to equality than the powers and gifts one is granted, whether those powers are gained at creation or earned. We all live, and we all exist in these worlds. We can communicate. We have personalities. We're all individuals. Isn't that enough? I don't care about the powers I or others have. I don't let that paint an image of someone I don't know. What I care about is who they are and what they do with their strength. I've said this to others, but in my opinion it is the duty of the strong to nurture those who have yet to find their own definitions of strength."
He tilted his head slightly "Well, Digimon do have different forms of varying sizes they could achieve depending on the situation or surroundings, but I see your concerns. You're right. I'm not saying it'd be easy, or even possible, to try and accommodate for everyone, but that doesn't mean we still shouldn't try. This isn't something a single person can accomplish. This is going to take the blood sweat and tears of many to even get started. Change doesn't just...happen. It will be a long, and certainly difficult road, but it will be worth it."
"So let's think about this. Does anyone have any idea how to help different types of Digimon get around our cities or be comfortable? We could install ponds and waterways in specified locations or districts. We could figure out appropriate building sizes for the widest variety of Digimon, though again, the option to digivolve or revert is still there."
He returned his attention to GranDracmon "Who said it had to be a single voice? Create a council of elected representatives who are willing to discuss as we are now to come to decisions in regards to laws and policy. And there's a certain balance to be had between population centers and the untamed wilderness. Set up proper city borders and zoning regulations in a way that's fair for everyone. Though it would be wise to have...say...sentinels patrol the regions so Digimon out in the wild aren't preyed upon."
Their questions now involved the protection of the less powerful Digimon and the situation that would arise in the wake of a large threat "It pains me that there are no easy answers to this problem. Using the forest as an example, everyone was just taken by surprise. We were off guard, unprepared, and failure to repel the attackers would have led to dire consequences. If you ask me, the first step is to start building an understanding between Digimon of different types. I feel like the attack on the forest was partially due to how virus types are treated with disdain by others in the world, which in turn led to an uprising. Type doesn't matter. It should not matter. Our merits as people are what's important. If more can understand this, then there will be fewer instances of attack and violence, and when those powerful threats do emerge, we'll be all the more united to face them."
"Lastly...you ask of us, and the Digimon that are bound to tamers. We must strive to understand each other and our cultures. I've seen wonderful things happen when humans and Digimon work together harmoniously. In the end, this world is yours, and the human world is ours, but they're connected by an unseen force. Why? I cannot say, but it as an opportunity for us all. Digimon with tamers could work with them to be ambassadors between worlds. As for humans having positions of power here...hm...I'm not sure. Maybe one day, when our worlds have had the chance to grow alongside one another. As it stands, many humans are still unaware of the Digital World, though we're in an odd transition period where I believe that veil needs to be lifted. We're meant to come together, not be torn apart and separated. Maybe once more humans are knowledgeable of the Digimon ways, will we be welcomed alongside them in seats of authority. For now, I believe Digimon should hand Digimon affairs in that capacity. Even if they are bonded to a human, I believe all Digimon deserve to have their voices heard. Ostracizing them for their circumstances is unjust. Societies grow through the connections we make with one another. Being an outsider doesn't have to be a bad thing."
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Post by Katsura Ise on Apr 23, 2019 10:38:33 GMT
Considering that GranDracmon's comments were missing Katsura's point of how annoying it is when all digimon are named the same, it was easy for her come up with a snappy comeback: "Then I'll name the next guilmon I meet "bushy-tail". When Nyao was just a YukimiBotamon, I wanted to call her Fluffball." "Thankfully I chose my own name in time."
Katsura has many skills and strengths but coming up with names is not one of them, not that Katsura herself was aware. While Toki and GranDracmon were debating Nyao peaked up again.
"Katsura? Can I borrow some power? This is my topic but no one will take the words from a cat seriously." At first Katsura sighed, then a moment later she shrugged.
"Sure... Whatever, excuse us for a moment." And so Nyao jumped over to a vacant seat next to Katsura who was taking out her digidevice who shot energy at Nyao. Notably Katsura did not feel like showing off right now. Nyao started glowing and grew into a fallen angel. "Blackgatomon digivole to... Ladydevimon." As the light faded out the fallen angel named Nyao stretched out while waiting for Toki to finish.
"Ahhh, much better." Nyao moaned in ecstasy.
"GranDracmon, you're probably wondering: If I feel this good being in this form, how come I didn't show up like this in the first place? Well to tell you the truth, the higher forms are as powerful as they're impractical. Aside from the time it takes to grow accustomed to the toll, you can't move around without breaking things especially in the human world and the digital world isn't much better. Where am I going with this? I believe in choice, I believe in adaption. I choose to assume the form I perceive most beneficial. I choose to believe my everyday life is easier as a cat. And look at yourself, you choose to attend a diplomatic meeting in a very large form, probably to appear more imposing. You choose to regret the gesture of your host's seating rather than choosing a form able to sit comfortably. A humble Dracmon may not be the most impressive but it's able to pass through a doorway. Humans are created equal yes, but they are very static and tend to stay the same for most of their lives, me? I just changed from a feline to an angel because I felt like it, maybe even a dragon one other day. Let me ask you, what struggles does a dracmon or Betamon face living in Terminus City?" "Mr. GranDracmon? I'm not a digimon myself but I learned so much from Nyao. If a digimon can be influenced by their partner surely it can go the other way too?"
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Post by Adrian Boriker on Apr 25, 2019 3:21:40 GMT
Telling a group of Guilmon apart by something as small as their ear shapes? Or the width of their tail bands? Of course this came as second nature for Shoutmon, but to Adrian that just seemed absolutely ridiculous. "Yeah, humans don't exactly have the ability to... do that. At all, at least not that specifically."
The group had made their opinions on GranDracmon's proposal very clear. Adrian felt disgusted that he would even suggest something as blunt as "hey, just give up and let us rule!" Seriously, did he think that they were all dumb or something? He must've not because right after that he just smiled, happy that they didn't do as he asked. "Odd, usually the bad guy just starts attacking if he doesn't get what he wants," Shoutmon shrugs.
And that's when things got real. GranDracmon brought up many good points about how society just can't work in the Digital World. There were many Digimon, both very short and very tall, so buildings couldn't exactly be made equal. And not every Digimon is going to follow laws; hell, most humans choose to break all kinds of laws. The more powerful could easily crush the weak, and who could stop them? Still, even after all of that Adrian didn't just want to give up.
GranDracmon then brought up a good point: should humans even get involved with these affairs in the first place? Adrian just didn't know what to say. He wasn't prepared for anything like this. He decided to sit back and let the others say what they had to say to GranDracmon, which did improve his own views on the situation.
God damn, I'm as strong as a paper fence, Adrian bitterly thought. He couldn't even come up with his own argument... he felt like a total pushover.
"If I may say something," Shoutmon spoke up, stepping next to Adrian, "but the Digital World is my home, and I think we Digimon should have a say in who leads us, with both the mayors of the cities and a so-called king of the Digital World. And if we're having a change in leadership, I would rather have literally anyone else lead us than you or the Demon Lords. Plus we can learn a lot from how humans do their thing, just like how they can learn how we do ours. We help each other, y'know?"
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Post by Bonetrousled? on Apr 27, 2019 5:15:44 GMT
One of the three humans present had fallen silent at GranDracmon's words. Whether cowed by his arguments or simply planning out an argument of his own was of no consequence to the demonic herald. It just meant he was one step closer to being the last man standing in this verbal battle royale. The other two were proving far harder nuts to crack. The spirit user fleshed out his own position, patching up the holes in the argument that GranDracmon had poked. The tamer and her BlackGatomon instead pointed out the flaws in GranDracmon's own words, whether his ideas were infeasible or simply hypocritical.
Both of their arguments pointed in the same direction: adaptability. GranDracmon's words hinged on adaptation being a costly, unfavorable endeavor, while Toki and Nyao believed in the Digital World's ability to change.
"You paint quite the beautiful picture there, spirit," GranDracmon said. "I, too, wish we lived in such a world. Believe me, I do. Yet it certainly asks a lot of the world we do live in, does it not? You're asking beings that may have cycled from the beginning of the Digital World until today to change their comforts, their understandings, their very lives, just to try and make things a little better and a little worse for everyone. There are two ways of viewing a compromise, after all. One is that everyone wins. Another? That nobody wins.
Do not misunderstand me. I know what it's like to seek harmony between such distinct entities. My masters are as different as any Digimon could be. Their outlooks, their abilities, their needs, their desires. To even convince to send me on their behalf took much negotiation and discussion. I assure you, it is not out of malice that I offer their presence, but instead due to experience. They face the challenges you've brought up day after day, both amongst their followers and their own debates. Yet nevertheless, they remain a cohesive whole. They possess both the perspective to see what best suits beneath them, and the strength to enforce it among those with no interest in playing by the rules. Would a council of the chosen be capable of the same?
Let us look to your example, of the fragile bounds between civilization and wilderness. When both sides feel so strongly about their positions, to the point that they would be willing to fight for them, how would you enforce order? What would you do if neither representative refused to see reason, each too busy looking out for their own to see the others' position?"
His point sufficiently made, GranDracmon turned back to Katsura and Nyao. The BlackGatomon had certainly picked a more intriguing form to turn into, most likely to highlight the fact that it is not a form she necessitates taking day after day. "Oh, but of course I understand," he said. "I could very well choose to remove the roof from this building and solve my little problem, no matter what the angels within think. But I also choose to accept my role as a man of peace, and it certainly wouldn't be peaceful to ruin my gracious hosts' property.
Perhaps our priorities are misaligned. You seek an existence that is functional. I seek one that is comfortable. And to me, it would be far more comfortable to adopt my natural form than it would be to cram myself into such a restrained body. Why, I would feel more cooped up inside of my own skin than I currently do within these walls! But such is the nature of choice, is it not? You and I can lead completely different lives, yet still find ourselves sharing a table with one another.
You ask what struggles one of such stature would face. Furniture, perhaps. Many older Digimon stand over ten feet high. A comfortable chair for them would need to be climbed like a stepladder, and can you even imagine how they'd reach the handle of a door? And this only accounts for the humanoids: I'm not even talking about the more bestial Digimon that can stand many times these heights. And this doesn't even get into the topic of morphology. A Digimon with arms has many tools and services at their disposal a more armless Digimon does not. Elemental affinity, too, is an issue. A Digimon sensitive to light may find most of the city inaccessible to them, whereas a Digimon who thrives in the heat may need others to be uncomfortable just for their comfort.
And that doesn't even get into differences in reputation. What a lot in life the Numemon have drawn!
It may be the case that all of these can be adapted past. Yet, what if these adaptations fail to solve everything? From Chumon to PlatinumNumemon, our poor, filthy friend here keeps the same poor reputation at even his highest level of existence. Or the humble Mamemon family, whose members may never know what it's like to be bigger than a Rookie. Some Digimon, such as Gotsumon, may not even change as they Digivolve! Are these Digimon's concerns lesser in your eyes, simply because they aren't afforded the same luxury as you?"
Finally, Adrian and his Shoutmon. They were quiet, yet they echoed the one point consistent among each argument: the value of humanity, unity, and shared experience. "I agree. We have a lot to learn from those who are different from us," GranDracmon explained. "Even a human, a literal outsider to our world, has so much to bring to the table. Why, this little talk with you three may be the most intrigued I've been in years! It's a wonderful change of pace from the same circular discussions with the same Digimon.
Yet if reaching mutual understanding is what you seek, I must ask. Why so vehemently oppose a set of beings you haven't even met? Can you so definitively reject even the suggestion of my masters when you do not even know them?"
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Post by Toki Akiyama on Apr 28, 2019 9:52:17 GMT
Toki remained unflinching as GranDracmon provided their counterpoints to what the group was suggesting. However, his eyes opened slightly again in that same piercing gaze "Please refrain from using language such as 'beneath them.' If the Sins want to lead us they need to understand they are not so above everyone else's station that they can view others as less significant than they are. I would prefer humility in this case." he said before closing his eyes again.
He sighed softly as he continued to listen to their points. They made strong arguments and did well in poking potential holes in what they were saying "I would be lying if I said you didn't raise many good points. Forgive me, and give me a moment to think." he said as he leaned back in his chair and stared up at the ceiling, then around at the beautiful stained glass windows. Suddenly he began to speak, though it seemed more like pleasant small talk "The world's such a beautiful place, isn't it? Whether made by human, Digimon, or naturally occurring, there's so much to see and experience. It's something...I believe everyone deserves a chance to see on their own terms."
The slight anger he had before faded as he calmly spoke again "I must thank you for bringing attention to the Digimon with digivolution lines that leave them at similar sizes and of different body types. It was not my intention to leave them out of the equation at all, and I deeply apologize if that ever seemed to be the case. Every digimon is equal. From MagnaAngemon to Numemon, we must treat all as equal individuals. If nothing else will work, please let that mindset stick with you. Now with that in mind, let's think of how to tackle these issues, hm? Maybe specially crafted doors with smaller doors built in for those of different heights. Or simply have different sized doors to buildings. Even specialized entrances for those without arms. It's a basic idea, but I feel it's something that could be worked on. Now...as for Digimon with an aversion to light...perhaps research into new devices to shield their bodies or eyes from the light. Perhaps even umbrellas would do? It really depends on the individual."
He realized he was ranting on about a particular point for quite some time, but now it was time to move back to the Sins topic. "Unfortunately this goes both ways, GranDracmon. Because we don't know them we can't really make any proper judgments on them one way or the other. They could be as benevolent and cohesive as you say, or this could all be part of some scheme. No one here can truly know for sure. If they wanted us to have a bond of trust...then I believe they should come to us and make their presence known. If they want to lead then I'm afraid it's not going to be as unconditional as them just asserting themselves. This council I suggest will allow for them to be removed if they abuse their power or fail to live up to the expectations set forth for them. Again, via vote."
"As for the wilderness and city debate, I'll admit that conflicts between the two are inevitable." he said. He couldn't help but give out a soft laugh at the circumstances "You sure enjoy giving us the hard hitting questions. Good. Good. These are the questions we need to consider. Well then, I suggest regular meetings between the two groups to discuss plans for the future of their respective regions. Send envoys to live among each group, see what they can learn from each other and bring back to their people. Will there be disagreements? Absolutely, but we must trust in the individuals to solve it peacefully or be able to enforce things should things go poorly."
He smiled brightly upon hearing that GranDracmon was enjoying the debate "I am glad you are enjoying this. I must say this has been an enlightening conversation. You worry for the difficulties going forward and I understand, truly I do. But difficulties will rise up no matter how we push forward. This is our test. Our test of virtue. Our test of strength. Our test of ideals...but most importantly, our test of cooperation. GranDracmon, you and the Sins must have been through so much recently, haven't you? I would extend my hand in cooperation and help ease the troubles you have been through, but you cannot expect me to just give. All of you must work to improve yourselves alongside everyone else. Compromise is as you say. We all win...or we all lose. So help us make it a winning solution." he said, hand extended to further emphasize his desire to help bring peace.
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Post by Katsura Ise on Apr 29, 2019 18:52:36 GMT
Once again GranDracmon offered the exact same thing he says is a problem without the slightest hint of irony. Really? A council sounds very similar to having the digital world ruled by the demon lords? Won't that just make a council of demon lords? A junta? GranDracmon's blindnes was disappointing Katsura the first time and the continued hypocrisy was starting to annoy her. Thankfully Katsura is good at hiding her emotions. That being said, Katsura couldn't resist inserting herself in Toki and GranDracmon's discussion.
"Everyone I meet says they know what's best for everyone." A slight over-exaggeration perhaps, but at least Nyao knew where it was coming from. A moment later Katsura and Nyao got GranDracmon's full attention it seemed. During GranDracmon's answer to Nyao, right at the word "property", her pupils briefly moved to what used to be a chair. GranDracmon was too peaceful to break his host's property but that certainly didn't stop him from destroying a perfectly fine chair when it was too small. A perfect analogy of how GranDracmon's words apparently only apply to situations where they benefit him or the demon lords personally, not a good trait for a leader. Getting caught by her own definition of choice, Nyao had little to say about GranDracmon choosing that form. Nyao raised her shoulders in a shrug,
"Eh, agree to disagree. I prefer not wasting energy when I don't have to. As a bonded digimon that's a concern for me. My natural form also happens to be a cat, alas I failed to predict my angel form when I chose my name. C'est la vie." For Nyao's next point about small digimon, Toki had already laid out the grounds, all Katsura needed was to compliment the group in her own sort of way.
"Oh things are easy to fix when you're small, a door can have a little tiny door just for small digimon. One chair can fit many guests or one big. I always wondered how it would feel to swim in a kitchen sink and..." This was getting off-topic, and Nyao knew it.
"Umm Katsura? The fate of the digital world?"
"Oh right, Mr. GranDracmon? I don't know these demon lords, that's my problem. If I knew them I might trust them. I only know they're obsessed with one sin and what form they take. That's not a lot to trust. But I'd love to meet them." Katsura and Nyao both pulled out their hand to GranDracmon, Nyao chose her normal looking arm for this occasion.
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Post by Bonetrousled? on May 2, 2019 2:56:30 GMT
(With his permission, skipping Adrian!) GranDracmon grinned widely, taking the hands of Toki, Katsura, and Nyao in one of his single massive ones. He looked at Rasielmon and Bagramon, his voice taking on a tone of mocking plea. "Oh, come now. Surely you can join in a single gesture of solidarity," he said. "I only bite when people want me to, you know."
Rasielmon looked at Bagramon, offering him a hesitant smile. "Well, we did invite him," she said.
Bagramon simply let out a grunt. "Guess its only fair, huh?" he muttered, putting his hand on the pile. Rasielmon, looking more secure, followed suit.
However, as she did so, she suddenly jolted back. She placed a hand to her head, rubbing her temple and letting out a few mutters under her breath. It was a reaction any human in the room would know: brain freeze. But what could cause it in such a distinctly ice-cream-free environment? "Hm? What troubles you, my little Razzle Dazzle?" GranDracmon said. "Come now, surely shaking hands with me can't be that bad."
"No, no, it's nothing," Rasielmon explained, trying not to let the discomfort on her face show. "Must not've been getting enough sleep. Migraines, can't live with 'em, can't live without 'em, you know?" While her cat's eye mask was hiding her eyes, she seemed to be staring for a little bit too long at one of the walls. Was she seeing something nobody else could, or was she taking advantage of her visual wear to try and size up everyone in the room?
GranDracmon seemed fine with her reassurance, at the very least. "A pity. Nothing a good glass of wine can't fix," he explained. "Now, I do believe we've said most of what there is to say to one another. But I suppose I should also put my money where my mouth is and take the offer you've oh-so-graciously given me.
Would you wish to meet my lords and masters?"
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Post by Toki Akiyama on May 2, 2019 10:56:50 GMT
It seemed as if talks were going well, and Toki's ideas were further reinforced by Katsura and Nyao, while Adrian opted to remain quiet for the time being. It seemed that GranDracmon was all for the idea of further peace talks, though something happened that disturbed Toki as Rasielmon recoiled upon touching GranDracmon's hand. He didn't feel any sort of painful shock or anything of the sort, so this was odd. After a moment he would pull his hand away with everyone else. He calmly approached Rasielmon and said in a quiet tone "Are you sure you're well? That certainly did not look like nothing..." All the while he circled her and checked for any odd markings, specifically around the backs of her hands. "I can imagine these days lately must be stressful, but if you are sure..." he said, though he would keep any mental notes of any oddities going on with her.
He returned his focus to GranDracmon, who seemed pretty calm all things considered. Though he seemed rather eager to have the group meet with the Demon Lords "...How do you plan on us meeting them, if you do not mind me asking? Are they here? Or nearby?" he worried how that would even be possible, unless GranDracmon had a separate meeting place for them at the moment. "Still, I would like for these talks to be relayed to them as well. I hope they won't be disappointed that we disagree with their desire to unconditionally establish a rule over the Digital World."
Toki felt something was just wrong about the situation now. What was going to happen next and how was the group going to tackle this? Rasielmon's reaction stuck in his mind, though he remained focused on the task at hand for the moment. Were they being played? Or was something going on behind the scenes that even GranDracmon wasn't aware of? Either way...these Demon Lords. What drove them to this? And was there even a way to help them or have them see reason? He wondered if there were virtues that went against them, and if that were the case, would that bring balance to both ideals or simply spark conflict? Questions upon questions flooded his mind.
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Post by Katsura Ise on May 3, 2019 15:42:29 GMT
Following the handshake, Nyao padded Katsura on the back with her twisted hand, Nyao was proud of Katsura and the way she had handled it, especially considering GranDracmon's own admission that they all had kept him interested. This moment disappeared as fast as it arrived due to a strange reaction from Rasielmon when it was her turn to shake hands. Katsura was rather confused over Rasielmon's behavior, right now didn't appear to be a situation to be uncomfortable, she thought she could recognize the reaction from somewhere but she couldn't figure out from where.
"Are you okay?" A curious Katsura asked Rasielmon, she later shrugged it off after hearing Rasielmon reassuring it was nothing. Nyao was a bit more suspicious, on top of that she has unique ways of being aware of her surroundings in a subtle way. In this case by having her shoulder-spirit turn to the same wall Rasielmon was looking at while acting the same as before. If you weren't paying attention to her spirit, you would likely assume she was outright ignoring the situation, especially since the spirit would stop if nothing of interest appeared soon. Katsura was used to having portals sending her anywhere she felt like going, thus she no longer saw anything strange about meeting the demon lords right away.
"Mhm, I stand by my words."
In fact now Toki was the one that confused her. "Umm, they probably have a keyhole too or something? Don't you use portals all the time to get around? Everyone does." Naturally if Katsura does something it automatically means everyone else does, oddly though Nyao sighed a bit disapprovingly at Katsura over that assumption.
"So where are we going? I can just add the coordinates for my portal thingy, unless it's somewhere else?"
Katsura was adamant in her decision not to wait for GranDracmon or the demon lords to change their mind, even if this was a trap it was a risk worth taking in the hopes of ending the demon lords conflict quick and bloodless.
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Post by Adrian Boriker on May 3, 2019 16:45:46 GMT
Adrian and Shoutmon had good reason to be silent like they were being: they weren't exactly sure what to think. With all the crises that the two of them had faced, they had always known what side they were on and how they thought about each situation. But now? Neither of them are sure what to think. Adrian still wasn't too familiar how politics in the Digital World worked, so he couldn't comment on the ideologies that GranDracmon was presenting. So, he just let the others do the talking for the moment.
He also still did not trust this GranDracmon, so he re-framed from the handshake at the moment. Plus he wasn't all too fond of handshakes in the first place. Instead he just nodded towards GranDracmon, hopefully giving the same effect as a handshake of the others.
Adrian raised an eyebrow when Rasielmon suddenly acted like she got a brain freeze. Was it a migraine? Could Digimon even get migraines in the first place? "Rasielmon, are you okay?" Adrian asked, as a sudden migraine was not a good thing. She shrugged it off however, claiming it to be nothing. Adrian noticed that she was just staring at one of the walls, however. She must just be zoning out, he thought.
And here was the moment GranDracmon must've been waiting for all along. He asked if the group wanted to meet his masters. The tamer's and Digimon's eyes widened at this suggestion. Just what exactly was he planning? Was the group going to be teleported, or will the Demon Lords just burst through the wall?
"Do you get the feeling that something bad's about to happen?" Adrian whispered to Shoutmon, quiet enough so that the conversation can only be heard by those two.
"Big time. What should we do?"
"We can't risk starting combat right now. For now, just be on your guard and expect something to happen. Don't engage unless I say otherwise. Got it?"
"Right. I trust you, Adrian."
After that Shoutmon stood up, looking more alert than before. Adrian looked at GranDracmon right where his eyes would be. "If everyone else agrees then yes, let's meet your masters. It would be interesting to see their perspective on this whole thing." With his hands behind his back, Adrian was setting up his Digivice to digivolve Shoutmon if the situation called for it. If it didn't and the meeting continued to be civil, Adrian would simply not use the Digivice.
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Post by Bonetrousled? on May 5, 2019 7:32:04 GMT
"I'm fine, I'm fine. I promise," Rasielmon said, smiling weakly. "I think I'm just gonna lie down for a bit. Maybe I've been spending too much time monitoring this whole situation . . ." She walked away, clutching her head another slight clutch. Presumably she was heading towards a rest area, but Bagramon cocked an eyebrow in curiosity. Maybe as a resident of the Sanctum, he knew something the others assembled didn't.
GranDracmon, too, knew quite a bit. His grin was ear-to-ear at the unanimous approval from the humans. "Oh, no no no. Do not worry, you won't be going anywhere. I'll simply open a few gateways, such that my masters will be able to see and speak with you," he explained. "Each reigns over their own domains, and it would take quite the world tour to get you personally acquainted with each. I figure this is a suitable compromise, if you'll forgive the compromise."
After making his explanation, GranDracmon thrust his arms outwards. Bats poured forth from his sleeves, arranging themselves a series of circles that lined the debate table. A dark mist spilled between the bats, making each portal almost look like an oversized inkwell. Then the mist settled into what could only be described as a screen of shadows. Other than the occasional dribble of shadowy goo hitting the floor, they seemed mostly harmless.
Images blinked into existence, one after another, on four of the seven screens. On the first was a close-up of a Beelzemon's grinning mug. The laughs of adoring fans and music that alternated rapidly between hard rock and techno poured from the screen, which only made Beelzemon smirk harder. "Alright, alright, that's that story covered . . . gonna have to take this one for a quick sec," he explained, before turning to properly face the meeting. "Hell of a day to call us all to a meeting, Daemon. Don't you know I've got a party to host? We're burning the midnight oil today, and not stopping til the city's burned down with us!"
"He means that figuratively," GranDracmon explained. "And it is not Daemon who has organized this. Merely I, GranDracmon, operating in his stead."
"Oh, really? Sweet," Beelzemon said, before promptly turning back to his party. He motioned in a circle with his fingers, as if signalling for the rest of the group to continue. Was he seriously going to try splitting his focus like that?
The next image to come on screen was a single yellowed eye. Its bloodshot gaze scanned across the room, a nictating membrane occasionally shooting across it. "I am glad to see my counsel will not be ignored for today," a deep voice said. "Although I must say, the location for this meeting only makes me more painfully aware of the state of my current accommodations." The eye darted back, revealing the massive maw of a Leviamon. It turned to face the room with its other one, this one seemingly less bloodshot. "What are we even being called upon to discuss? And why do I not already know?"
"Probably because you don't stop and listen," said another voice, coming from the third portal. This one was paired with the sound of rushing lava, some of the heat spilling through the portal and leaking into the Sanctum. Belphemon, who looked to be a colossal stuffed animal, appeared highlighted by pale blue crystals and cracks of red hot magma. "Not that I'm much sure what we're discussing, either."
"But of course. All it takes is basic attentiveness to understand," said a final voice, light and androgynous. The owner of this voice was walking away from a small village in the Empryean Skies, humming a marching tune. With angelic and demon features in equal amount, this could only be Lucemon. "Our parlay with the angels has been met with some degree of success, and now we can reap the fruits of our label. Excellent work, GranDracmon! Only I could have done better."
The other three portals remained inert for the time being. GranDracmon huffed slightly at this, but did not seem overly troubled. "Getting half of their attentions is honestly quite the feat," he explained. "Consider this your first achievement. For better or for worse, you have been taken note of. I'll see about sending another signal to the remainder.
While I repeat the ritual, why don't you acquaint yourselves with my masters? I'm sure if you don't yet know their names, those devices you hold will be more than capable of doing so. Don't worry about scanning them through such an indirect method. I assure you, you can and will pick up a signal as strong as their with ease."
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Post by Toki Akiyama on May 5, 2019 9:45:59 GMT
Rasielmon's body language and general demeanor didn't do her any favors. Something was definitely wrong, and it seemed like Bagramon may also know something a bit more. Sadly, now was not the time to pry about what was going on, as the next part of the negotiations were about to begin. This required his absolute focus. Adrian looked uncertain...and definitely worried, about everything that was going on. "We're doing alright so far. Deep breaths, we'll get through this." he advised.
He looked at Katsura and looked slightly embarrassed "Hm. Yes, I suppose you're right about the portals. I keep forgetting there are solutions as simple as that sometimes." However, it seemed as if they were not going anywhere if GranDracmon was to be believed.
Soon, many shadowy portals started to open up across the room, though it seemed they were all for communication purposes, not transport. Beelzemon was the first to show themselves in the portal, and the music was definitely audible on their side. Though Toki just kept his calm expression "Hehe. I see you and many others are enjoying themselves. Take care not to actually burn any buildings down or get each other hurt. That would not be good for the image you'll want to present."
Next was the intimidating maw of Leviamon, then the oddly adorably appearance of Belphemon. Lastly, Lucemon appeared. Something about Lucemon was...unsettling. Extremely unsettling. Lucemon must be Pride, judging from that declaration at the end of his praise for GranDracmon.
Still, despite his fears and worries, Toki stood up and hovered above the table "My name is Toki, though if you would prefer to call me by a Digimon name, then I am ZenCherubimon." he looked from portal to portal "Beelzemon, Leviamon, Belphemon, Lucemon...thank you all for taking this time. Now then..." he hovered some of the orbs around him idly as he spoke "If it's not too personal...what exactly drove each of you to take on the mantle of Demon Lord? I understand that these are trying times, so I do not blame any of you for what has happened or how you came to this point. I'd be more surprised if no one took these mantles, given what I now know of the Demon Lords."
"Ah, forgive me. I do not wish to seem like the only reason you were summoned was simply for me to ask you such personal aspects of your histories. Allow me to summarize the conclusions we've currently come to. To put it simply, I do not think giving you all partial sovereignty over parts of the Digital World is the correct answer for what has been going on. I feel like this is not in the best interest of the individual Digimon and their right to choose. Now before-" he raised a hand to emphasize the word before "-you say that individual Digimon may not truly know what the desire, then you underestimate them. I and the others gathered here have debated with your representative over potential solutions. Ambitious construction projects, exchange programs between Digimon of the cities and the Digimon of the wilderness. Most of all, we want all Digimon to be valued, no matter their type or their species. We need to set aside such things. We're all important. We're all individuals. Allow the Digital World to have its voice be heard. Allow for votes, and agree that if the citizens are dissatisfied, then they will be able to vote to remove you from power. Let's build a council of representatives...perhaps not even of just Digimon, but humans as well. Our world's are connected, and our future is with each other."
He looked at the four of them again "I want to help you see the goodness and hope of the Digital World. Allow us this opportunity."
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Post by Katsura Ise on May 6, 2019 14:50:57 GMT
Toki had admitted that Katsura had a point about portals, sure enough GranDracmon had indeed a portal-making ability only this situation didn't call for leaving the table nor finding more chairs.
"See?"
Meeting the demon lords through GranDracmon's scrying powers was like sitting in a video conference. The first portal showed a Beelzemon drinking and partying. At this point this wasn't that surprising but to Katsura, it sure didn't look organized. Nyao was a bit more open to this view.
"Looks like a nice place to celebrate." Nyao cheerfully mumbled.
"Nyao we can't just... Oh" Katsura had just heard Beelzemon reassuring them that setting the city on fire was just a metaphor and she already knew Nyao was capable of enjoying a drink once in a while. Moving on, the next portal was a Leviamon, it reminded Katsura of a dragon. Katsura cringed, Leviamon had barely been on the screen for 2 seconds and he was already whining. Well, someone had to be envy and it was probably that "guy". Good to know, though they hadn't much to say to him before the next demon lord showed himself. And the next one looked like a plush, very cute for a demon and finally a lucemon who was apparently very full of himself.
"Where's Liliana?" Katsura snarked to Nyao in a subdued voice.
"Pfff"
Nyao struggled to stop a giggle and ended up sounding like a pig for a few seconds. Such an ego could only indicate the demon lord of pride. Katsura was expecting the other demons to show up too and looked around at the remaining portals. Well, judging from GranDracmon's reaction demon lords apparently have more important things to do than answering the phone. Nothing could be done about that other than continue the meeting.
They both performed a greeting bow.
"Greetings, I'm Ise Katsura, this is my partner Nyao." They allowed Toki to open up and now Nyao got an idea. There have been so much talk about the stability of the demon lords and Nyao could already spot a crack: None of the summoned demon lords have any idea of what this meeting is about! It was time to test out this council and so Nyao spoke the next.
"Hello once again, forgive my ignorance of the matters but this Daemon, is he the chairman of this council?"
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