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The Case of the Runaway Train [Cion]
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 9, 2019 0:57:23 GMT
"Okay, but seriously, do we have to do everything out in the desert?"
The Renamon's complaints were heard for the upteenth time this afternoon. Out in the blazing sun of Folder Desert, atop the hard, caked sands of the drought-scarred plain, a single large vehicle stood out like a sore thumb. A Winnebago, this far out into the Digital World? It served the team's purpose well, though, providing for enough room for everyone to at least stand up.
Which was how the Renamon found herself sitting halfway back in the vehicle, hogging one of the air conditioning vents to herself. Denryu sat near the front, keeping one eye on the clock and the other at the desert in front of him. "Ugh... how much longer?"
"Relax, we're within range of it as it is." The General sighed, tapping on the dash. He really didn't want to think that this job was a wild goose chase - after all, it was the first decent job he'd been able to take in a long time. Somewhere, out in these sandy wilds, there was apparently a monstrous Locomon that had mentally gone off the rails, physically gone off the rails, and now saw it fit to mow over anything that came in his path and load the data right into its exhaust.
It was challenging, but simple in concept: stop the train, using lethal force or otherwise, and there would be a large reward. Heck, it became something of a bounty hunt for several 'mons at this point... but no-one was able to find the damn thing! Some questioned if it even existed, and Denryu himself was working off of slight indentations in the sand. It could have easily been a pair of train tracks buried in a dune...
... Or just some sort of underground desert snake. Or even the wind blowing the wrong way.
"Okay, seriously D, how much longer are we going to stake this out..."
Cion
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Post by Cion on Nov 9, 2019 10:11:27 GMT
Well... this unusual task had certainly gone off the rails - only literally speaking as of yet. It was a rare enough occasion that the Trailmons who secured transportation between spots of civilization were under attack, but they themselves somehow managing to be the aggressor was simply bizarre. It was merely a single outlier, but nonetheless this event posed uncountable questions, leading to innumerable, mostly useless hypotheses. Evidently, there was no point heeding any of them for the truth was still out there on a rampage. Somebody had to stop this, and if this act of goodwill also meant good pay then that was ultimately a win-win situation.
Naturally, Cion had the foresight, unlike many others, to not traverse the vast expanses of an entire desert by foot in search for nothing more than one, admittedly titanic, entity. Why would she if she had a partner that turned this otherwise challenging undertaking into child's play. It had been quite some time since she had requested the assistance of her trusted companion, but this was an endeavor where it was highly appreciated. Hence, instead of having to suffer the scorching heat and freezing cold of these sandy badlands, the vulpine sentinel savored the amenities of futuristic technology, including an A/C, from within a cockpit.
From the outside, the duo was just a tiny, dark speck in the dazzlingly bright sky. There were two things that gave their presence away though - the sound of distant jet engines and the white contrail that was emitted. However, in the end, this was of no concern to either the passenger nor the 15 meters long, sentient aircraft. And as the unassuming and restrained Super Mega calmly inspected various screens to make sure the 'UAV Recon' was not missing something, she sipped a delicious, icy glass of cider.
"Spotted anyone or anything of relevance yet, darling?" The small fennec asked kindly, leaning back into her seat to behold the lovely if monotonous view. "Negative ma'am. Although there are people who I suppose are competitors driving a trailer." Vertigo the AceJetmon MM replied with outstandingly British mannerisms and cheer. This response led to the fox chuckling for the notion of someone utilizing a mundane vehicle to venture through arenaceous terrain was both baffling and amusing. "Oh dear... at least they are unlikely to get far. But for their sake, let us hope that our target is not within proximity."
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 9, 2019 17:17:37 GMT
Like finding a needle in a haystack.
This was the Renamon's thought, as she boredly drummed her claws against the side of the vehicle, looking out the window to see the unchanging, unforgivable landscape in front of her. What, exactly, was the General's plan here - not even moving, but literally parked under this unforgiving sun? "You could have at least sent Falcon out to search this damn place, General-"
"-Tracking it from the sky, we run the risk of running into anyone else trying to scan the area. Besides, this bait is about to get a bite."
"Bait?" The Renamon sat up, moving to the front as Denryu idly pointed to a half-empty bottle of water in the driver's seat cup-holder. The fox gave a sigh, taking a closer look - and then she gave a blink, seeing the water ripple on the surface. "Wait, that's it?"
"Mhm. And its time to move - crack open the sunroof, we're going out the top."
Finally, things were starting to move! It didn't take long for the fox to get that hatch open, and with the fox's boost, Denryu would pull himself atop the camper, recalling the Renamon into the Xros Loader soon after. At this stage, Cion and Denryu were still mere 'specks' on each-other's vision. Besides, that was hardly going to be the most interesting thing here, in a moment: the muffled sound of a train engine began to ring through the area. The surface of the desert, several hundred yards above Denryu, began to swell up as if a large, demented serpent slithered near the surface.
"Realize! Falcon!"
With a burst of light, a Mailbirdramon would appear at the side of the camper - and a quick step by the General would put him on its back, carrying him several yards upwards. Another click on his Xros loader, and the vehicle itself would vanish in a ball of blue data, pulled right back into the loader. The very next moment, the target of the hour surfaced.
![](https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/digimon/images/d/d7/GranLocomon_b.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20100219084327)
Not just a Locomon anymore - apparently, gorging on data out here had brought it up to a GranLocomon! Its front tire kicked an incredible amount of sand into the air, clearing the way to create wrought, steel tracks. The train raced straight across where the vehicle had just been seconds prior - but even after that, the train was still pulling itself out of the sand! The engine itself towed at least twelve cars behind it, those nearer the back of the line looking much 'newer' and more polished than those in front.
And each section boasted a different paint job, a different style.
Tch... The voice of a Kokuwamon crackled through the Xros Loader. Is it making new parts out of whatever it loaded?
"Don't get distracted by that. For now, let's see how keen this thing is at actually targeting us."
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Post by Cion on Nov 9, 2019 18:53:06 GMT
Although to a normal eye the two groups would indeed appear to be mere specks to each other, the scans the 'UAV Recon' ability provided were exceeding the average visual faculty by several factors. It was true that identifying individuals from a couple of miles away remained undoable, but gathering data about modified signatures was rather easy - akin to taking satellite photos with different lenses. Hence everything that had occurred beneath them, the transformations, appearances and disappearances of units, was not unnoticed by the sentient machine and its vulpine passenger. Especially the titanic, reinforced train stuck out like a sore thumb.
"Please throttle and descent. Try to remain close to the unknown airborne entity and its rider." Cion politely yet firmly requested, to which Vertigo would salute if he was capable of doing so. "Affirmative!" He answered vociferously as a response before tilting its frame to the side. Slowing down significantly, the AceJetmon MM rapidly descended - an act that still required a short amount of time since the duo had been quite high in the bright, blue sky. Nonetheless, given that the GranLocomon had not attacked yet, if it even was their target to begin with, this deed likely ended in success.
During these moments, the tiny fennec monitored the screens and the intel they supplied with utmost attention and consideration. She evidently attempted to make sense out of what the scanners picked up, but spontaneous alteration of code was not something she was really acquainted with. There were not many Xros to know by heart, which was why their ways and capabilities were also enigmatic. Besides, this was merely one of plenty hypotheses. Additionally, they had no idea of the personalities of these characters...
"Would you kindly attempt to establish a wireless connection?" The restrained Arniomon asked, to which her partner did not waste a second on words. Instead, the living plane tested all conceivable frequencies in the hope to arrange a communication link. Such means of direct interaction seemed highly beneficial - one way or the other.
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 9, 2019 19:28:41 GMT
Denryu knew this could very well just end up as a scouting expedition.
After all, if the Locomon didn't think it was necessary to turn around, the train could very easily just snake back under the sands and wait for a better opportunity. Powerful as his resources might have been, it didn't help that the target was a runaway train who could make its own tracks!
You sure you don't want to test its armor now, D?
"If we show our hand while its not coming at us, its just going to keep running away - hm?"
Curious - way out here in the desert, the Xros General found his radio crackling in his ear. Was someone trying to cut into his comm lines? Those in the Xros Loader were quick to call foul: Of course! We do all of this work and now some hawk is going to swoop in and take the credit!
Perhaps not. A calmer voice cut in. Maybe they are trying to just offer assistance?
"Don't get distracted." Keeping his focus forward, Denryu watched as his patience actually paid off: the Locomon took a while to turn, of course, but managed to snake wide around a dune - leaving them barrelling once more in the Xros General's direction. Unknown assistant or not, it was time to take advantage of this opportunity: "Direct Xros - Brutalist!"
A click of his thumb slipped the last chip into place - and directly from the light of the Xros Loader, a familiar Devidramon took form. One with a completely metallic left claw. One with an unmistakable metal helmet, a visor covering its otherwise-several eyes. Red lightning danced from its claws, the beast growling as it stared towards the Locomon.
"This way." The beast growled, opening its palms to the target, two eyes giving the machine a deathly glare. The Locomon's own eyes pulsed red, and as the Devidramon broke off towards the right, the Locomon turned, as if forced to follow the demonic beast. In turn, the train let out a loud, piercing whistle, starting to accelerate in an effort to bear down on its target.
Only then did Denryu end up responding to that static:
"The target's on lure. I'd advise keeping your distance if you don't want to get caught up in the fireworks, stranger."
Mark of Sin Devidramon opens both of its claws towards a target, letting the eyes within cast a curse on an enemy. Those affected find their focus and eyesight drawn solely towards Devidramon, as dark thoughts cloud their mind. Two post duration starting the turn after cast, two post cooldown
Mark of Sin Duration: 1/2 Locomon increases its speed, attempting to chase down a single target!
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Post by Cion on Nov 23, 2019 20:46:05 GMT
Even before any response was heard through the communicators, Cion's eyes widened as she sat within Vertigo's cockpit to cautiously monitor the screens and the data they provided. Another alteration of code occurred as a new entity came forth out of nothing to support this digital monster tactician far beneath her current elevation. The creature which emerged out of the synthetic ether was a Devidramon - a very special specimen to be precise. It was covered in chromatic armaments that emitted a crimson sheen. The last time she had encountered something like this had been... over 2 years ago.
Observing the radically empowered Nightmare Soldier apparently distract the titanic, monstrous train, the final nail in the coffin eventually revealed itself as a familiar, masculine yet relatively young voice answered her call. Softly biting her lower lip with a stone-cold expression, she listened in absolute silence and motionlessness. Never had the tiny fennec thought that she would meet anyone from that dreadful guerilla conflict ever again - especially not her main adversary and his legion of what she presumed were bondservants at this point.
Remaining silent for several seconds, a thousand thoughts and emotions collided and clashed inside the unassuming ascendant's mind. Winters and summers had passed them by, the pinnacle of human perniciousness she had met believed departed for good - a mere meaningless memory among uncountable that plagued her. But no... this was reality, undeniable and spiteful as it was. Although there was curiosity, there were also valid hypotheses made about the boy's presence. None of them included the commonweal of the people that were protected by undoing the feral machine.
"Quaint, but amusing, for it is not the first time you said so to me. Regardless, your consideration is appreciated." The small fox stated with unyielding calmness. The words escaping her lips were lighter and younger in sound, but they were unmistakably hers. Few possessed her sophisticated vocabulary, fewer her well-mannered diction. "However, it is an oddity to not descry your flying fortress. Would it not be advantageous as it was against the Ceresmon... ... Denryu?" She questioned the Xros commander while her cherished companion continued to descend.
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 24, 2019 2:09:48 GMT
Cion's tone was unmistakable, but given the gap in time between the two groups meeting, it wasn't immediately discernible to this side. What was clear - at least from the first sentence - was that this other bounty hunter was someone that might have run into them before. "Ugh, some people just want to claim the credit for themselves... you got a camera to catch the footage, D?"
"Hm." If need be, maybe he could use the one on his cell phone - but the comms weren't going to stay silent for long. With her next words, it immediately clicked just who team Metal Drive was dealing with. Seriously, Cion, of all people - that problematic sniper from the Ceresmon job? She even had the gall to bring up Dreadnaught, which hit a deep sore spot with the Renamon residing inside the Loader. "Fucking bastard.... bringing up-"
Denryu muted the loader. "Cion, if this was something that could be spotted from the air, they wouldn't have needed to make a bounty this high about it. Besides, that's hardly the issue right now." The General tried to diffuse the situation, but gave a mental sigh. If this went the wrong way, they'd have to pull right back. But he did have a point: regardless of their banter, the GranLocomon was still rampaging! Like a bullhunter with a cape, the Devidramon led the train off to the right, but it was clear that the locomotive was much faster on the pursuit.
"Ingrate." The Devidramon growled, a familiar ball of crimson electricity forming in its hand. The demon hurled the ball up - the ball expanding, creating a dark, dense cloud, two powerful bolts of electricity tearing down towards the GranLocomon! The crimson energy struck, but seemed to race through the entirety of the massive metal beast, rather than cause heavy damage where it was struck.
And the Locomon responded in kind, its two spikes at the front glowing a fierce red, two straight lasers shot in the Devidramon's direction. The demon growled, ascending to dodge the lower one, using his metal arm to brace the other one - as he turned ninety degrees, and bolted to the left.
The Locomon, caught by the spell, was forced to make a wide, sweeping turn in that direction. Tch... "Don't get distracted. Thing... tough..."
Mark of Sin Duration: 1/2. (Starts turn after cast)
Raider's Lightning Duration: 1/3
Combining the forces of electricity and darkness, Devidramon tenses a claw to create a ball of red, electrical energy, before hurling it into the air. The ball expands into a fierce, electrical storm, striking the two nearest targets within a fifty foot range, for as long as its duration.
Three post duration, three post cooldown.
The Granlocomon shoots some sort of energy attack at Devidramon.
Due to 'Mark of Sin', its forced to try and make a wide, unsafe turn to the left.
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Post by Cion on Nov 24, 2019 17:09:03 GMT
As to be expected, the recipients of this call too required a couple of moments to properly process the intricate, galling situation at hand. Among the few things that she did not hold against them, willingly or not, consideration and thoughtfulness certainly were. It was self-evidently better than being assailed immediately by the crass, profligate mercenaries. Hence she waited patiently, oddly confident that this cluster of enhanced warriors could emerge victoriously from the earthbound clash in time. If nothing else, she had been witness of the vexing firepower they possessed - minus the flying fortress of course.
Chuckling once, which she gladly allowed her interlocutors to hear, Cion inhaled and sighed quietly. Though beyond their vision, it was easy to hypothesize that she was shaking her head in biting amusement. "Powerfully eloquent as always, I see. ... Charming to meet you again at last." The tiny fennec responded with utmost calm and figurative poise in her young yet ladylike voice. The ancient sentinel still knew how to adequately carry herself, as it was becoming to a gentlewoman of grace and mannerism. Although practically everything in her life had changed, this obviously had remained the same since 'the incident'.
"Agreed - it's not an issue. I was more considering its air raid capabilities anyway... but fair enough. The selected tools at your disposal evidently sufficed thus far." She returned her focus to address the explications of Denryu. Cautiously watching the monitors in front of her, she observed the conflict unfolding itself while Vertigo finally descended to a level that caused streams of winds to disperse the wind beneath its engines. The usually talkative if concise pseudo-Brit stayed silent, curious to scan its partner's acquaintances and the titanic enemy following the chromatic Devidramon. The Nightmare Soldier was holding its own... barely.
This was not unnoticed by the restrained ascendant either, who was not able to withhold an indecorous smirk, if only for a second or two. "I take it my involvement is not needed? I mean - given your previous exploits, this must be rather... run-of-the-mill for you all. However, I don't wish to assume too much, so I offer my cooperation if requested." Cion offered generously, despite the chutzpa she was, metaphorically speaking, salivating. Delayed gratification was superior to none, right? After all, wasn't there something about overconfidence the boy had sough to teach her? Delightful...
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 24, 2019 19:37:34 GMT
As far as Angel could tell, there might as well have been venom dripping from every single one of Cion's words. Regardless of the fennec's true intent, Angel couldn't picture her as anything other than a potential threat, a thorn in their side. And for her to continue picking at that sour spot about their former aircraft?
"Tch..."
That muted grunt of frustration wouldn't pick up over the call. Right now, Denryu found his attention somewhat split, drawing a card between his fingers. "I wouldn't underestimate the situation at hand, Cion. GranLocomon are typically incapable of reaching the level of a Super Mega. In this case, it looks like the massive amount of data its loaded has massively increased its potential."
At a glance? Denryu looked over towards Demon, as he flicked a card through his reader.
"In some ways, this train might already be on par with a Super Mega. Stay back all you like, but if this one gets much stronger, what do you think will happen if it sets its eyes on Rustport?"
A moment of silence.
"Pitch in. We'll split the bounty." "Tch..."
Demon felt it: that sting in his arm, from what amounted as a 'passing shot' from the GranLocomon. It felt like an attack beyond his current level - so why hadn't Denryu brought over the Renamon to help yet? His visor cracked to life, buzzing a response to that question:
"It looks like the General's being forced to keep some reserves back due to... interference. We're going to be on our own for a bit, Demon!"
"Grrr..." The Devidramon gnashed its fangs in frustration. A moment later, he felt a familiar tingle in his core, and with outstretched wings and arms, a fierce, dark aura surrounded him - as the beast quickly tripled in size, becoming much more evident not only on Cion's radar, but a visible beast on the desert floor below. The Locomon was now once more barrelling to the Devidramon's position, several cannons aimed upwards from its cars.
"Anti-air!"
"GRAUGH!"
Right as the electrical storm let out another blast of electricity, the train itself would let out a deafening blast of its cannons, powerful concussive shells detonating near and around Demon's position. He forced himself downwards, landing hard on the sand below, in the path of the train.
Demon's own claws sparked white in the next moment, and with its enhanced size, the Devidramon would lock his claws right at the front of the Locomon's engine, a powerful discharge let forth into the beast's engine. The GranLocomon, however, managed to carry forward with only a squealing grind of its rails, the demon struggling to find any sort of reasonable footing in the sand below.
Frustrated, the beast forced his arms to 'throw' the train left - though, in effect, it only vaulted the Devidramon off to the right. The train barrelled past as the Devidramon rolled, staggering back to its feet, data dripping from its fangs.
He spoke back, on the open communication line: "Not working. Need way to stop it from moving. Too fast. Too heavy."
Mark of Sin Duration: 2/2 Raider's Lightning Duration: 2/3 Super Particle Accelerator (Triple target size): 1/3 Ferocity Cooldown: 0/2 Ferocity: Devidramon's claws burst with an intense electrical aura, before the dragon tears forth, simply trying to tear the target limb from limb with his fangs and claws. Two post cooldown The GranLocomon uses anti-air ordinance to fire a deafening barrage of concussive rounds towards and around Demon. Demon is forced to land. Ferocity is used, both it and Raider's Lightning dealing electrical damage to the vehicle - but it is not enough to stop the GranLocomon's momentum.
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Post by Cion on Nov 24, 2019 22:10:02 GMT
It was with a tentatively granted ear that Cion attentively listened to what the boy had to utter. He had, oddly so, acted surprisingly affable thus far, though she of course continued to actively search for any hole in his little scheme. Ultimately, there was no chance that she'd miss out on this intriguing union and the aftermaths that might ensue, no matter what they were. Besides, they had a task that had to be dealt with, not to mention a noticeable reward to earn, although the latter was of minimal concern to her for obvious reasons.
Raising a hypothetical eyebrow, the ancient sentinel found it difficult to believe that a Mega, even one that had consumed plenty of data, was able to match the peak she had achieved. After all, it was apparently not in the possession of a MacGuffin like Daemon - and if then she would be more than happy to acquire it for future ventures. But that was pointless wildcatting she cast aside as to maintain her focus.
However, there was something else the rascal stated that managed to flabbergast her fully. A few seconds went by where not a single word was voiced, but eventually it was the sound of the graceful lady that pierced the silence. "Worried about the defenseless and innocent? Huh... seems atypical, but it is a pleasant surprise indeed." She lauded her conversational partner with utmost composure in her own, tongue-in-cheek way. Still, there was a hint of genuine astonishment in her tone.
The AceJetmon MM at this point was only a couple dozen meters away from the somewhat smaller Mailbirdramon. Maintaining the same speed and changes of acceleration, his crimson eyes occasionally shifted to the impressive and undoubtedly handsome, sentient aircraft. Seldom had the overly British warplane encountered someone with its pace and stylishness, hence it was quite terrific in the first instance. "Vertigo - a pleasure to meet thee." It attempted to introduce himself over a personal channel to the Wind Guardian.
The cockpit of the steel-gray jet opened briefly, but instead of somebody jumping out of it, a sudden, silver flash erupted on the outer wing of Denryu's airborne valet. As quickly as it appeared it faded into nothingness, leaving behind the signature frame that was Cion's restrained apex form. Despite being unfamiliar to the group of mercenaries, it was clear as day who was the owner of this shape that was, unlike previous encounters, merely the size of a nursery school child. The platinum fur, white pelt and short, green scarf were dead giveaways.
Unconcernedly sitting there with her legs crossed, the vulpine digimon seemed to enjoy the heavy winds with a confident, winning smile. Her left paw held tight to the machine's chassis, while the other rested softly against her hip. Aureate irises beheld the infinite, blue horizon for a moment before they swayed to gaze the blond male. "Deal." She unhesitatingly accepted the suggested arrangement. The gratification she felt was already exceeding every expectation, therefore consenting was child's play.
Watching from afar the appropriately named Demon's accomplishments, or rather lack their of, she cringed for a the blink of an eye when the Nightmare Soldier got nearly steamrolled and then shoved out of the way by the titanic train. Oh dear... suddenly, the mighty presence they had displayed 2 years ago appeared insubstantial. Reality truly was a relative construct of the mind, was it not? But that was of no importance right now.
In lieu therof, her ears peaked to listen to the statements uttered over the communicators. Shrugging, Cion scratched her snub nose and then folded her paws. "I could do that if you want..." She proposed unperturbedly - almost uncannily so given the magnitutde of the assignment the Devidramon needed to have accomplished. Things evidently had changed. “... unless there is something else you'd prefer me to do. I'm open to ideas.”
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 26, 2019 4:29:11 GMT
Was it purely out of the grace of his heart that Denryu went after this GranLocomon?
Absolutely not. Heck, he didn't even fully believe his own words: Rustport would appreciate the defense, but a city like that would likely be able to muster its own defenses against such a forceful titan. But what it did do was play to Cion's sensibilities and her own good grace, leading her to see the good that would come out of the situation.
"Well, our last two run-ins were bounty hunts as well. Shouldn't be too weird to see us handling another mark." As he spoke, the General's eyes flicked up, seeing the jet slip right into their own pace. Despite the jet's apparent advances, the MailBirdramon - Falcon - seemed content to simply keep its current pattern. Its eyes flashed a brief red, a message returned in kind.
One that came from the radio connection, in the MailBirdramon's monotonous robotic voice.
"Falcon, V-1. Greeting acknowledged."
"Oh, you pick today to speak up..." The Renamon's voice crackled from the Xros Loader, finally freed from her mute. She seemed calmer now, having had time to stew the situation over in her head. At about that same moment, Cion - in her prime form - made her appearance. One word was all that was given to affirm that she was going along with this temporary truce - which only left the matter of the fight at hand.
"..." Or, Cion could just hold back for the moment. Demon let out an annoyed growl, as Denryu let out a sigh. "I suppose we don't have a choice here. Angel, you're up."
"Finally!"
With the device held in palm, Denryu took the Xros Loader in hand, and slid that last chip into place - a blue Digi-Core surging right from the screen, towards the fight at hand. "Grrr... if you've got nothing to offer..."
Unlike Cion, Demon had absolutely no patience for this. The brute was far too pressed, too tense to see any humor in the situation. However, it wouldn't be him at the helm for long: as that core approached, sinking into his back, a crimson light pulsed and cracked over his frame. With a burst of energy, Demon's frame expanded outward for a moment - before shrinking right back down, to the size and shape of a mere Renamon. Though, as the light faded, she'd seem far more impressive.
Black fur. Metallic wings, long demonic nails. Crimson red eyes. And a massive, powerful data signal that rivaled Cion's own. "Eheh... sure you ain't callin' this overkill, D?"
As the train started to arc back around, Angel would tense her claw, and let out a powerful swing. A crimson arc of dark energy tore its way towards the GranLocomon - and this time, it would actually cause a deep scar into the side of its third car.
She grinned. That was the ticket - all they had to do was tear this one apart! And they-
"Tch..."
It seemed that one attack wasn't decisive enough to send this train running. In fact, the GranLocomon seemed to be content to get right back on track, barreling towards the newly formed demon fox. As Cion had stayed back to start, it still only had one immediate opponent - and this time, its exhaust gave off a puff of white smoke, the train's whistle screeching through the air.
A loud, deafening screech - one that put Angel's teeth on edge, potentially even invading Denryu's and Cion's ears with the sheer sound of nails on a thousand chalkboards,
"The... fuck did it load... to learn that?!" Her wings tensed, eyes wincing in pain as she tried to climb altitude. Damn it - already from Demon, she was getting really tired of this bull-hunting horse-shit! Denryu even gave a 'tch' at that. At a further distance, even his ears were still ringing from that, the General shaking his head. "Tch... we have the firepower to bring it down, between us. The problem right now is its momentum."
"Electrical attacks could damage its systems - and a good shot to the engine would take it out. But anything that doesn't hit it dead-on in the front's not going to stop it."
And Denryu didn't have to say it: if the GranLocomon wasn't stopped by that shot? One could easily end up a lot worse than Demon did.
Mark of Sin and card effect cancelled. Crimson Arc Cooldown: 0/1 The Xros upgrades to Savage, Super Mega level - and they use a medium-range attack to damage one of the GranLocomon's cars. In response, the GranLocomon uses some sort of sound based attack - one that has deafened and temporarily slowed the new Digimon. GranLocomon's attacks seem effective against Super Mega level targets - and its runaway momentum hasn't ceased. Though avoidable and predictable, a direct hit would be devastating for any participant.
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Post by Cion on Nov 26, 2019 20:42:36 GMT
If Vertigo had any muscles to contort, he would have certainly raised an eyebrow at the emotionless, robotic response the synthetic gentleman received. Suddenly, it seemed as if first impressions were not something to rely fully on. Though the MailBirdramon named Falcon had a stylish appearance and a lot of power under its hood, it appeared that it was more of a machine than an actual person. Either that or the draconic jet had no interest in banter or acquaintanceship. How disheartening and disappointing... "Acknowledged..."
Unaware of the little interaction between the two massive aircrafts, Cion continued to calmly sit on the large Wind Guardian's blue wing, savoring the view, the refreshing breeze and of course the conversation with someone she temporarily considered not an enemy. And no matter what impetus drove the boy and his minions to actually perform this job, it was the results and consequences that counted in her opinion. Leaving innocent people, much less an entire hamlet, to the GranLocomon's voracious frenzy was an abhorrent notion. Stopping it was the right thing to do!
Hence the platinum fennec was quite surprised to hear her accommodating offer indirectly rejected. Here she was, immediately volunteering to solve the issue that Demon had pointed out, but all she gained in return was silence and implicit refusal. Scratching her side, the small fox shrugged and shook her head in a barely visible way. She did not display aggravation nor disapproval, mainly because she did not feel these negative sentiments. If Denryu and his crew sought to do it their way and by themselves then so be it. Ultimately, they already had agreed to their deal. "Okay then."
Observing the young generalissimo utilize his special device, the restrained Arniomon briefly became curious. The truth was that she had just the roughest of rough ideas on the ways that Xros-systems functioned. Elements of polymerisation and rearrangement of data played into it, but the true nature was beyond her. Not that she had the desire to willingly subjugate herself to such an apparatus - perish the thought, no! However, it was always beneficial to comprehend what a possible ally or opponent was effectively capable of.
Continuing to face the situation with a serene, unperturbed and almost coltish attitude, the vulpine aspirant watched as the chimeric Renamon sprang into action to take over for the empowered Devidramon. "Huh..." Escaped her lips, minor surprise clashing with intrigue. The blond's soldier evidently was a monstrous amalgamation of code and sources, but it's signature was without doubt noteworthy. There was potential in this, but did intuition and sudden adaptation suffice to encounter experience and attunement? Doubtful, but... worth contemplating.
And as mighty as the initial onset was, its effectiveness left plenty to be desired. Had they not figured out by now that this type of simple-minded approach yielded no fruits? Obviously, the titanic train was extremely resilient, ergo they had to depredate it of this inherent advantage and prey on every moment of debility. Rendering the mechanical menace unable to move was a worthwhile shot in the dark, but alas there was apparently no need of her contribution. Then again, as it was explained, this had not been the first bounty of theirs, so she granted them the independence they craved.
Abruptly losing her chain of thoughts, an unpleasant screeching echoed throughout the vast desert. Weakly baring her teeth, Cion narrowed her aureate eyes and cringed slightly. This event by no means affected her negatively, mostly due to the distance between her and the current combatants, but by golly was it galling. It felt as if somebody twitched at her nerves. "Blimey!" She exclaimed, confident that her temporary companions shared her feelings. The sole difference was that she preferred to make use of an august lexis, not vulgarities and cussing.
Shifting her gaze to pay attention to Denryu, the conclusions he made seemed perfectly reasonable. Although... were they not discussing the same problem as before? Not knowing what else to propose then her full support, the ancient ascendant furrowed one of her brows and then looked back at the oxymoronically labeled Angel. It was easy to deduce that the fell chimera was a soloist who was too proud to accept a helping hand from an individual she disliked.
"Or we derail it?" She veiled a suggestion behind a rhetorical question. In the end, what was a train that ran off the trail but a motionless pile of scrap metal?
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 27, 2019 23:40:52 GMT
Falcon wasn't entirely devoid of personal emotion - but what he was, was cautious. The last time the group ran into Cion, the result of the ordeal cost Metal Drive their mission, and Demon his original left arm. And now Cion's cohort was trying to buddy up to him?
No need to take that risk, especially with that demented train on the prowl! It took some effort, but Angel managed to pulls herself enough upward that the train bolted underneath, the Renamon swearing under her breath as her hearing finally came back. "Tch..." They no longer had the means to force the Locomon's movement, and so Angel set off to chase, flying above and slightly behind the vehicle as they formulated a plan. "Update, D - it doesn't look like this thing's actually interested fighting us in earnest."
"So its tactically sound enough to know when it shouldn't take a fight..." Hm. The GranLocomon was hardly subtle, so it was easy to judge a book by its cover and simply assume that it was acting recklessly. Looking at the situation in retrospect, it seemed to use that whistle as a means to intimidate its opponent, sneak its engine underneath, and start to pull itself away. "If it was stronger than Angel, it would fight." Falcon's voice radiated below.
"Right now, its using its momentum and armor to protect itself from half-hearted attacks. As for derailing it? Take a look at the front of the car." The Locomon approached near them - a good hundred yards off to their left - which would allow Cion to see. It wasn't as if it were already running on tracks: rather, just a few feet in front of the train, tracks were appearing out of thin air, allowing the rails to glide smoothly. Pristine, fresh tracks then existed for about ten yards behind the train, where they then dissipated into trash data.
"Its not a bad idea, though. A strong enough blast to its side will jar it from the axis that it's on - but it will only hobble it, as it tries to pull itself off of a new track. Either way, we'll have one or two more shots to try and hit it with something big. Would you rather make the opening, or take the shot yourself?"
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Post by Cion on Nov 28, 2019 17:29:38 GMT
It was difficult for Cion to refrain from letting out an amused chuckle, but with every ounce of volition she was capable of mustering she did just that. To her, it seemed obvious that a Mega, no matter how much data it had feasted upon, would be reluctant to engage an ascendant in direct combat. After all, regardless of its impressive resilience, its power was simply inferior, and so was its mobility in today's case. Still, that meant that it was probably fleeing, which was not acceptable. Removing the frenzied threat was the only sensible option.
Nonetheless, the silver fennec was somewhat delighted to witness that previous half-heartedness was finally cast aside to properly deal with this danger to commonweal. What this assertion ultimately connoted given prior failures was written in the stars, but she was glad to behold some fervor revealing itself. At least they were passionate about doing something that benefited everyone and hurt no innocent soul, unlike the distress of a few years ago. However, it appeared as if she was continued to be underestimated, or even denigrated to an extent. Had they no trust in her passion? Oh well...
Shaking her head, the ancient sentinel crossed her arms and looked at the rails that manifested themselves in front of the titanic GrandLocomon. That was not at all what she had in mind with derailing it, but if the lad insisted on presuming her intentions and capabilities then she saw no point in correcting him. In the end, aforementioned statements held true - their arrangement was set. The way and difficulty with which they chose to fight their target was none of her concern. Besides, the longer she could observe them the better.
Smiling, the small fox was charmed to receive credit for her suggestion at last. Nodding firmly, Cion stretched herself and cracked her fingers. "I can perform either part, and I have no preferences, but thank you for asking." She expressed with genuine appreciation before shifting her gaze back to the massive enemy they had to vanquish. "What about your crew? Are they better at one task than the other?"
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Post by Metal Drive on Nov 29, 2019 19:43:45 GMT
The question remained - who handled what part? Honestly, that was a bit of a tricky question, not only for the threat at hand but a matter of trust. Though temporary allies, neither party really had the full trust of the other...
... And what better way to get back at the other end then suddenly turning on them when they were staring down the barreling engine of an oncoming, wild locomotive?
Denryu considered the situation at hand, though: "In this case, we'll handle directing the train's movement. We'll be able to both jar it off course and make its movement predictable - all you need to do is prepare a big shot where its going to be. You'd better get moving for that - I'd say, use Vertigo to get yourself ahead of the Locomon. Savage?" Denryu directed that last word into his radio, and the Renamon turned a small growl in response.
"Got it, D." Her wings tensed, and she let herself surge forward - slowly gaining on the train, until she was flying a good distance above and behind it. Calling a seed pod into her hand, she crushed it in her claw, and sent out several seeds - like bullets - into the loose sand a good distance in front of the train. With their size, they barely caused anything more than a slight 'kick' in the sand, apparently below the Trailmon's notice.
Right now, it was all a matter of positioning. As soon as the GranLocomon would travel past that area, Savage's move would trigger in earnest - several massive pillars of diamond, erupting from the ground, erupted to the vehicle's left and right, trapping him in a makeshift 'tunnel' of sorts. That wasn't all: one even erupted right in front of the monster, the GranLocomon forced to barge right through it, harsh shards of crystal shattering over its front and its frame. It wasn't enough to stop it, but the harsh squeal of its axles proved that it at least threw the GranLocomon off its track.
It created a thin opportunity - both for Cion to try and halt the train in one go, and for the GranLocomon to try and do something to counteract their efforts.
ULTIMATE: Diamond Castle Renamon litters the ground with a large number of seed pods, which burrow into the ground after activation. In the next after use, giant pillars of crystal, exceeding thirty feet in height, sprout from the ground in an attempt to eviscerate the opponent from below. Following this, the pillars remain for quite a while, acting as further cover to hunt down an adversary. Five Post Duration. Once Per Thread.
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