Getting One's Bearings [Cion|Invite]

The Mainframe Hills, the perfect place for a self-discovery and attaining peace of mind. Cion had been traveling rather often lately, although it was not as if anyone was at home waiting for her. How things would go in the future was still unclear, and with each day of uncertainty her worries grew. She just would have liked a straight answer from time to time, but it seemed fate got a morbid joy out of toying with her soul. And that... that was one of the reasons why she was here. To find serenity once more and show that not fate is in control of her, but that she forged her own destiny.

For a long time, she though herself alone, but a look in the right direction corrected her point of view. If she did not know better, she would have simply dismissed the digimon resting in the distance as another Bearmon, but she knew better. Delightfully surprised, she recognized the red shirt without second thoughts, realizing that the Bearmon in the distance was most likely a familiar face. "What a pleasant surprise." The CyberSagitamon Huntress Mode quietly spoke to herself, deciding to slowly approach her companion.

Clothed in full-body armor and a cloak made out of blue binary code probably made it difficult for Brad to even recognize her, but she had to make her friends get used to her more powerful forms eventually. Hopefully, he would not mistake the futuristic anti-material rifle on her back as a sign of hostility. After all, it was not like she drew it, and she would not stay in this form for long. Just long enough to make clear that she had changed a lot since their last meeting. And who knew, perhaps he could digivolve as well.

Quiet, but not too quiet steps eventually ended as she stood next to him, the golden eyes behind her visor shifting to the Bearmon's. If not those, the green scarf still tightly knot around her neck-pelt was probably a clear indicator of who she really was, if he remembered. "A pleasure to meet you again, Brad. May I rest alongside you?" She greeted him and requested something minor from him. Her voice, despite being partially synthetic and that of an 'independent, adult woman', still was soft and gentle for her companion. She knew he was a digimon of admirable virtue, and she respected and admired that.

Of course there was a bit of awe in the Bearmon's expression as he sat up, but the armored, vulpine digimon was glad that he did not display fear. The last thing he wanted was to scare a friend, especially if it was someone... who was possibly a much older and closer friend than one might have expected. With every step of her digivolution, Cion found herself remembering more and more details about both her previous life, which was both blessing and curse. There were many people she missed dearly, but... perhaps today, she'd find out there was one less to miss.

"Thank you. Feeling's mutual." She replied calmly, her deeper and synthetic voice still capable of expressing gratitude and joy. Still, she believed that hiding under a helmet was a bit unpersonal, which was why a brief faint glow engulfed her weapon and helmet. Both disappeared, as well as the cloak of blue binary code that cloathed her armor. She had de-digivolved back into her Perfect form, which allowed her to be helmet-free. The silver fur emerged from behind the disappearing helmet, and calmly she sat beside the Bearmon, a warm and calm smile gracing her muzzle.

"Oh... there's been a lot of stuff. New companions, new jobs, shifts of private life and... relationships... but I manage, somehow." She spoke, her voice audibly younger and more natural than in her higher form. Her golden eyes shifting to the blue ones of Bearmon, she found herself nodding every now and then. "That was my Mega form, now I am in my Perfect state. And don't worry, you know I neither bark nor bite." She responded pleasantly, giving the bearmon a gentle nudge against his shoulder with a slightly teasing wink. They could be cool and casual around another, that she was certain about.

"No reason to blush, darling. I..." She started chuckling, thinking a little about past events. "I believe the only reason to feel shame was around whatever had been happening with that girl and Salamon. Gosh... that was a mess, hehe. But turned out fine and dandy, though I've never seen anyone but you again. Wonder what happened to them." Cion spoke as she stopped giggling. Stretching herself a little, she decided to lie down and rest on her back next to the Bearmon, just like he had previously done. With her head on her hands, she let out a pleasant sigh and beheld the majestic clouds in the distance.

"What about you? Doing well for yourself? Anything spectacular you just wish to share?" She asked, giving Brad a slightly toothy smile.

Relaxed and happily resting on her back, her golden eyes mostly focused on the blue canopy and only sometimes shifting to Brad, she found a certain sereneness caressing her heart. It was a pleasant, calm warmth she had not felt since a long time, but for once she felt like not much could go wrong or hurt her in this point of time. No ache, much less anguish, just another digimon that liked being happy around her and share entertaining stories with her. If things could only be always that simple, but that was just a pipe dream. At least such moments were still possible.

"Sure, I help you; I got time. Not quite sure how, but we can train any time you want, or take on some bounties on fiends." She offered, happy to help the cuddly mammal digimon in whatever way he saw fit. Most of the time, she and Owen had trained in their past lives and then unleashed their new power through digivolution in critical moments. This life had been different however. She was often alone, and had quickly digivolved with ease. Perhaps her ancient core was already accustomed to ultimate power, enabling her rapid maturity. Ultimately however, she simply did not know.

Briefly leaning upwards, Cion listened to Brad's stories, not having seen anyone but Pipmon either, and him only once. However, their little time together and granted him his digimental. Since the Bearmon showed it to her, the CyberSagitamon felt obliged to show courtesy and take a look. She had never seen such a thing from up close, and was certainly fascinated by it. "Well, it's good to know that he's fine and back with his companions." She figured, missing the smart rascal a bit, even if he was just as spacy as Katsura.

Properly sitting up now that things were getting truly interesting, Cion crossed her legs when Brad starting talking about the experiences he had made when finding his digimental. He talked about his past, yet... it did not seem to match with what the vulpine digimon knew. Perhaps, she had been wrong? Was this not the same Brad? She beheld the butterfly land on her friend's paw, and knowing how gentle he was she of course expected nothing less than an expression of joy from the fuzzy digimon. "I wished pacifism worked... but it doesn't. And I refuse to submit to fiends and let them do with others as they please" She owed up to her point of view, likely feeling similar Weltschmerz as Brad did.

As the butterfly left them, naturally Brad asked her what she had been up to. It was... a complicated question, and she honestly needed some time to even answer it properly. How was she even supposed to begin? Considering he had started with talking about the past, perhaps that was the best way to put everything together into one, easily understandable picture. After all, he didn't want to bother Brad with her anguish and worries. She took care of others to see them happy, and she couldn't do that when others had to take care of her.

"Next to my many missions... actually, the past too. Thinking about it, dealing with it. Nostalgia, loss... trying to exist with it in the present. Lots of changes, many regrets. Sometimes I wonder what it'd be like never having remembered anything, but that could only lead into way too many outcomes to count. Can't lament what is not, so... I just try to live life one day at a time, assuring I'm and those I care about are fine. Good food, joy in the simple things... all of that stuff. Not perfect, but keeps ya moving and appreciating the things you have I suppose." She spoke rather unemotively, or at least with very clear force as to not lose her composure.

Boon or curse, she still did not know if reincarnation with or without memories was truly preferable over total annihilation as beings from the organic world experience. It definitely carried a lot of burden and pain with it, one way or another. Either you lamented the things you lost, or you lived constantly wondering if you were truly in full control of what you knew. Or perhaps it was just her that thought this way due to recent events.

"You don't have to enjoy it Brad. I do it mostly out of principle, but whatever suits you best, my dear." She spoke calmly and kindly, showing untainted respect to the decisions in life the Bearmon made. Cion had her own passions in life, and so did he; there was nothing wrong with that as long as they did not hurt those who did not deserve it. But knowing what kind of a lovely digimon her friend was, she did not have any doubt that his impetus were good. The CyberSagitamon was not perfect either, but she had a clear plan and wanted to contribute to both the world and the family. That and bounties were, as Brad hat put it, quite enjoyable.

"And certainly. Just think about how you'd like to train and I try to suffice." She replied, keeping the same attitude as before. Honestly, Cion could barely even imagine how she would properly spar with the Bearmon, since he was most likely a melee warrior. Else, she could always push him to break his limits through incitation; or way or another. After all, a higher level was not only an increase in power, but usually also agility, the mind and spirit.

The vulpine digimon could relate to the wish to see Pipmon again. There had been something surprisingly sophisticated about him that was downright inspiring. The way he could take lead, easily adapt, utilize his brains to reach good conclusions. For a small rodent, he was without a doubt exceptional. "Me too, someday." She mused, wondering if he had already digivolved as well, and into what. Most likely a hulking yet glorious beast, as that would suit his personality the best. But, as many things were, this was a story for another day.

Listening to Brad's point of view about pacifism, it was simple for her to comprehend where he was coming from. When apologized, she calmly shook her head and kept her warm smile on her muzzle. "It's fine, no offense taken. After all, it could happen to anyone. Didn't my last lives, but things have clearly changed this time. It takes someone of strong will and steadfastness to always act on true justice, not become a corrupted avatar of it. I freely admit that sometimes, I wonder if I still have that steadfastness, and then I seek validation from my allies and friends." She spoke thoughtfully without becoming melancholic. Still, those were important aspects to always consider, which was she payed them lots of attention.

Her mood lightened up again when Brad shared that he felt similarly about memories about their past lives. The feeling of nostalgia, loss, longing... she knew them all to well, as they were still very much present in her life. His point of view that one should take each life as it is, something separate, was an admirable one as well. Still, a faint frown tainted her lips as she gazed towards the big blue above them.

"This change... is the hardest trial I've ever faced. So many clear memories, so many clearer feelings... I don't even know if I really want to let go off all of that, much less how to. After all... aren't all of those things still making us who we are; conscious or not? Are we really the same being as before without them?" Cion put forth the thoughts and questions that have plagued her lately. She did not expect answers from Brad, as they were inherently philosophical. There was likely never a true answer to be found for them, and that was what gnawed at her so much. The lack of closure.

Letting out a quiet yet deep sigh, she made notice of his grin and found herself unable to resist to grin back at him. "Nah, it's okay, I like talking with you. And I wouldn't mind being friends with you... again." The silver digimon spoke kindly, hinting at the idea that she probably knew more about him than even he did. Thankfully, their relationship had always been simple, yet delightful regardless. Her first real friend when she was still an Impmon, and always there to cover her back. Among many troubling ones, the memories of Brad were good.

"And it's good to see you look splendid and healthy as well." Was her kind response, giving his shoulder a gentle nudge once more. Health and joy, those were aspects in life that many still did not have. In contrast, their problems seemed insignificant, but they too had people with souls. And for Cion, to fix parts of the world once more, she first had to attain peace with herself, and work at P.R.O.F.I.T. for the time being.

Well, Cion stated had already stated that it was up to Brad what he wanted to do in life, which was why she saw no reason in repeating herself once more. She would be happy to help out in whatever way she could, but when it came to forging a path, she would not let him do the same mistake she had done. And one way she could help was by simply answering a not so simple question. The CyberSagitamon took her time thinking about it, trying to remember how it was digi-volving.

"It's... hard to explain. To me, it had always been... both a surge of emotion and letting everything go. Two forces tearing at you, until you realize they both have the same goal. You accept that something about you will change, and allow the power that has always been to finally flow free. Such moments can occur from anything, desperation, resistance, rage... but they usually involve a fight with something else, or yourself." Was the only way she could put it, thinking about the memories of her many pasts. There had always been a struggle mixed with ambition to get stronger, and an ultimate goal with a purpose she thought worthwhile. Could Brad act and think in this way as well?

Scratching her cheek, the vulpine digimon's gaze swayed to the Bearmon, who offered her help if she ever found herself in need. Smiling warmly, Cion nodded firmly as to display her appreciation. "Same to you." She assured him, vowing to always be there for him if he ever found himself in trouble, was it physical or emotional. Honestly, her friend did not appear to be a person that was involved in a lot of trouble, but having that reassurance was often another good pillar to keep the soul up in the light.

Again, they drifted to the philosophical questions and aspects of existentialism and identity, an effort partially enjoyable, partially worrisome, yet ultimately in vain. "I... suppose you have a fair point. Still, aren't those memories of fighting not also making you determine that there is no need in your eyes in this life? It seems... your and my point are inherently intertwined." She pondered, her head starting to spin a little. She had always thought, be it for freedom, justice, against Weltschmerz, herself or her family; one way or another. It seemed the world had formed her into a warrior, an aspect she would likely only be able to let go once the world turned into an eternal utopia.

She continued to listen, a brief, nostalgic grin forming itself on her lips at the exact point when he mentioned the young, blond name. That she remembered so much more about her and his past of her first life than he did, it was actually quite fascinating. Was it because she was so much more attached to who she is and was, or was it due to her digi-volution making things clearer with each step. "And I remember many things clearly as I said, like you for example." Quiet yet cheerful words escaped her lips at the end.

Laughing, Cion crossed her legs and nodded approvingly to Brad, as always appreciating his support. That was an aspect about him that had not changed one bit since the first time they had met, and she liked that. "Great. And sure, if the trio d'isaster or Kan aren't around and I clearly need help." She spoke kindly before a thought suddenly crossed her mind. "Why don't you join us, too? There is a 'mercenary' side which I joined, and a business side. If you want to live peacefully and not too un-wealthy, opening an inn or something... you could do that with us."

Beating around the bush a little as she was often shy when suggesting something, the silver digimon wondered regardless if this was something that sparked Brad's interest. After all, that way, they could be in contact more often, and it would give him an excellent cornerstone to build his life of peace from. Thus far, no to offend him, he seemed without a real plan and goal. Maybe P.R.O.F.I.T. could assist him with that through guidance and teaching aids.

Cion simply smiled when Brad thanked her for her advice, happy that she could help a friend out. Continuing to listen to him, the CyberSagitamon nodded weakly at times, recognizing the points the Bearmon made. "Perhaps. All I can say to that is that avoiding confrontation seldom leads to contentment and inner peace." She commented unusually seriously while remaining calm, clearly appearing as if she spoke from experience. Indeed there were still many obstacles she had to face, but she knew that she was not alone. Somehow, with the help of those she cared for and who also cared for her, before and after meeting Koharu, she would be able to live happy again.

Giving him all the time he needed to think about what they had been talking about, Cion eventually heard him voice his thoughts again, and as almost always she payed him as much attention as possible, a honor all true friends had to fulfill in her point of view. "Sure. I know how incredibly difficult... and painful... it is to face your past alone. Great friends helped me out as well, so I'll be proud to assist you when the time comes." The vulpine digimon promised, putting a paw on the Bearmon's shoulder while nodding with an expression of determination and confidence.

She'd never let down a friend who really needed her help, and Brad in particular would be no exception. Not only was he a fine friend in this life, but he also had been in her first one. But even if this was the first time they had encountered, she would recognized what a kind-hearted digimon he was and would have gladly helped. But these ifs did not matter, and when the day came that he required her support, she would provide as much as possible.

Letting go off him again as her gaze drifted back towards the big blue above them, she accepted that debating the philosophical question of the value of memories for the current self was something she and Brad would not attain a straight answer for. Her friend fathomed that as well, dropping the topic for the time being. Ultimately, it were all the experiences that made them who they were, but there was also a choice to reject that and change oneself. Maybe that was even the something one should strive for; overcoming your very own nature and flaws. But as mentioned before, no hypothesis lead to a satisfying solution.

However, the topic of joining P.R.O.F.I.T. was something concrete they could properly discuss, and the answer Cion received from the Bearmon was delightful to say the least. And since he seemed to be so interested and willing, she was more than happy to answer every question he had on his mind. "Co-Leader Koharu is your best bet. Do you got a phone, or a home to send letters or E-mails from? That way, we could contact her... of course with my recommendations." She suggested, hoping that would distract Brad from his current personal problems and cheer him up a little.

If anything, Cion was at least happy that she gave Brad food for thought. While they would not reach any real conclusions about morality and ethics today, they at least had something to contemplate which might change their perspective. But not on this lovely day, especially after they hadn't seen each other for months. No, she'd rather end this topic on a positive note, promising the Bearmon that she'd help him out as much as she could when he really needed her. "My pleasure." The armored digimon responded kindly, delighted by her friend's visible happiness.

Ultimately glad that Bad decided to give joining P.R.O.F.I.T. a shot, she waited for her friend to tell her that he did not have a way of communication over vast distances, or to show her the device at hand. Thankfully, he indeed did have a device, although it did not look much like a phone. It was more of a mix between a smartphone and a digivice of sorts, though the appearance probably did not matter as long as the hardware was acceptable. "Excellent." She responded, pulling out a typical modern mobile communication device out of her pockets. A sleek model in onyx with a blue screen, fitting to her overall color scheme.

"Of course." Was her answer as she turned it on, quickly switching through her contact list as to show her companion Koharu's number. And after he had noted it down, the CyberSagitamon was quick to give her a message, informing her about a potential new member who would love to be on the business side on things. If there was anyone who could show him the ropes of running a fine inn, it was her and her partners. After all, she too was proud owner of one. It'd be like an apprenticeship she figured, just like how she was learning things under Colin and the lovely twins. "Okay, looks good."