In his way back to the Digital World, one digimon is pulled out of his route toward a magical world to combat a familiar threat, but more importantly, to find a new beginning for himself. Magic of friendship meets the Crest of Friendship!
After saying goodbye to their partners Yamato ' Matt ' Ishida and Taichi ' Tai ' Kamiya, Agumon and Gabumon travel back to the Digital World only to get separated by an unknown force.
Gabumon now find himself stranded in a magical world where he needs to fight against a former enemy that's causing this new world troubles, but without his long time partner or his friends by his side, can he find a way to activate the Crest of Friendship? And how or why did he end up in this world?
" Goodbye... I promise, I'll always remember you, Matt ". The fur covered reptile Digimon said to his partner as both cried for the last time in front of each other, he even saw how his Digivice, the physical link of their partnership turning into dust.
His partner, the once human boy and now human adult offer him one last awkward save of his hand, not words, simply a wave. Not that he didn't cry, he was crying all right, as was him and the other two next to them, the other Digimon and Chosen Digidestinated. But his human partner wasn't giving him words because he didn't care, he remained in silent because he considered this not a goodbye forever, but a ' I'll see you later ' moment. The hope of each other seen again just as strong as his love for his brother and parents, as strong for his girlfriend and friends.
" See ya Matt ". Gabumon said finally as the light pulled him and Agumon away into the sky where the wormhole that would take them back to their original home was waiting. A weird experience every time but unavoidable, his friend Tentomon once tried to explain all the science behind it as his partner Izzy explained to him but Gabumon wasn't really paying attention, nor was the rest of the group now that he thought about it.
" Don't worry Gabumon ". Agumon said after blowing his nose from the snot he was quickly accumulating. " I'm sure we'll see them again! ". His friend tried to cheer him up despite he been just as sad as he himself was.
" Yeah ". Gabumon said in response. " One day ". The other reptile responded with a nod and another blow from his nose. " You better clean that up fast, unless you want to turn into a Sukamon when we get there! ". Gabumon said joking.
" What? Nooo! I don't want to turn into one! ". The other Digimon panic and started blowing his nose faster and harder, Gabumon smiled for his friend antics and felt a bit of piece knowing that he would still have him when both arrived at their old home, he wouldn't be lonely.
His smile disappeared when he felt the data in his body stir. He looked up and saw the wormhole even closer, he knew what was coming, his data would be re-arrenged into a Digi-egg so that he can be transported safely through the connection pass all the way back to the Main Server and from there to the place where all the Digimon were reincarnated, the Restart patch.
If he was lucky then he would find Agumon there as he hatched as well, if not then he could ask Elecmon about it so he wasn't so worried. Gabumon took one last look bellow but now it was too far to notice if Matt was still there, Gabumon send him one last goodbye in his mind.
" Is time! ". The always energetic Agumon said as both their bodies started deconstruction. The sensation was as weird as always, similar to slowly sinking into a body of thick liquid that turned the body numb as it descended, in front of him a small oval shaped object started to form, too small to contain his body as it was but as more of his body turned into pure data and moved inside the egg it was obvious that eventually every single particle of his body would be undoubtedly fit inside.
Gabumon turned to see his reptile friend with his eyes closed waiting for the process to be done with, it was a weird contrast compared with his usual loud and carefree demeanor, he turned back to his own egg now, the Digi egg was now half formed in exchange from a full arm and leg and a good chunk of his belly.
The forming egg was now taking a color and more defined shape, his became light blue with short darker blue horizontal strips. Agumon's was orange with yellow circles. As more of his body went into the egg more did he realized that this was his last time feeling this, experiencing this, at the last second his heart felt like a hole was carved inside.
ROYAL CASTLE, CANTERLOT...
" Thanks for coming so fast, I was fearing that this mission would have to be postponed until the rest of your group was back, we are facing many problems around the kingdom and even my sister is far up on the frontier dealing with some horrible monster that are harming ponies, those are really alarming times for Equestria ".
" Y-you, you said, mo-monsters? ". Asked the yellow pegasus Fluttershy, bearer of the Element of Kindness.
" Like, real monsters? Or just our typical end of the week kind of monster? ". Asked the pink Earth pony Pinkie Pie, bearer of the Element of Laughter.
" It is still unknown, My sister Luna will report to me as soon as she has more information, in the mean time I have a mission for you two, one that I believe will need both of your abilities ". Said the Sun Princess.
" I-if you think we are capable, I mean, maybe it could be for the best to wait for Twi-! ".
" Ha! Don't sweat it Princess! I'm sure that the two of us can deal with any monster that come our way! Right Fluttershy? Hey! Where are you going? ". Pinkie asked as the yellow pegasus tried to make her way out of the Royal chamber. Before she could make a excuse or run away her pink friend appeared next to her and grabbed her by the tail pulling her back toward the throne. " Wow! Fluttershy is eager to go out and defeat the evil monster! Don't worry Shy, we'll be there in no time but first Let's hear the rest! ".
" Thank you to both of you, the kingdom and this humble Princess thanks thee. Now then, this sis what we know so far, as you probably know by now, Ponyville is not the only town established near the Everfree forest, there's actually a few more located north and west from the forest, they were stablish as soon as the forest became less dangerous, some of those towns had reported seen what seems like a black cat that is causing mischief and stirring trouble among the ponifolk ".
" A black cat? ". Fluttershy asked suddenly now more interested at the news that an animal was involved.
" Correct, this... cat creature was reported as been able to talk with a rather explicit vocabulary, and also to be able to walk in two legs and it seems to be pretty agile ". Celestia explained.
" A talking cat? Now we're getting into the weird stuff there, I bet you that that's just an alien from a different world which is own by a different company trying to fight for the most original show that can sell the best toys or all tiiiiime! ". Pinkie rambled.
" U-uh, sure, something like, like I was saying, ahem, I need you to investigate this case and prevent this mysterious cat figure from causing more chaos, capture it if necessary, or if you can, convince it to change its ways but stop it, can I count on you?". Celestia watched them with anticipation.
" Hm, I, I think we should wait until somepony else can-! ".
" Sure thing princess! Leave it to us! With us behind this, that evil kitty is as good as cat-ptured! Get it? Get it? ". Pinkie said elbowing her winged friend after her pun that made her cringe even more that the elbow itself.
" Wonderful! Then I'll leave this to you. Oh by the way would you mind a little suggestion from me? ". Asked Celestia excited.
" Hm, well, if it is really a-! ".
" Sure Princess, to ahead, we're all ears! ". Pinkie said cutting Fluttershy short once again.
" Well, it would be faster for you if you cross through the Everfree forest rather that go around since the train doesn't cover those town yet, you can use the old castle of the Princess to pass the night! ". Said Celestia.
" Pa-pa-pa-pass the night in the forest? In the castle? THE NIGHT!? ". Babbled Fluttershy with terror.
" Nice idea Princess! Come on Fluttershy, we have to pack out stuff, adventure here we goooo! ". Pinkie pulled the yellow pegasus who led marks in the granite floor trying to resist the pink natural disaster.
Celestia smiled as her two subjects antics, the smile didn't last long however as Celestia saw the new reports send from the other bearers informing the appearance of other weird individuals. Twilight and Rarity were on Manehattan dealing with a pony with the ability to reflect anything thrown at him, magic included. Another report from Applejack and Rainbow who also found trouble in the form of two stallions that were chasing one another using road signs and knives, plus her sister who was been accompanied by a stallion hunter from another land, and those were the phenomenon she knew about! What other crazy things could be happening around the kingdom without nopony knowing.
This started to look like a bigger scheme rather that separated incidents but the only one who could put such convoluted plan in work was still imprisoned in a statue. With a heavy sigh Celestia went back to the reports and her paperwork.
FLUTTERSHY'S COTTAGE, OUTSIDE OF PONYVILLE...
" Come on Fluttershy, a brand new mission awaits, imagine when we rest of the girls comes back and we tell them about our super duper incredible no holdsbar adventure in the Everfree forest, they're gonna be like, whaaaa? You two defeated the bad guys without us? They're gonna be sooo jealous! This is gonna be aweeeeesome! ".
Pinkie jumped from place to place waiting for Fluttershy to finish packing her things, they have stopped in Sugarcube Corner before arriving at Fluttershy's home to get her saddle bag and now only hers was all they needed to head into the always dangerous Everfree forest.
Fluttershy was trembling every second since Pinkie drag her out of the castle, her fear for that place was as strong as before even if by now they have gone inside multiple times and come out ok. Despite all that, the pegasus couldn't deny this mission , it came directly from the Princess and also it involved a talking cat and Fluttershy wanted to see it. Apart from her saddle bag Fluttershy took out her survival backpack, equipped with everything she could need, she even packed some extra supplies because she was going with Pinkie.
Sucking her fear and keeping it deep down she donned her saddle bag and joined Pinkie in her living room. " I'm ready now ".
" Hurrah! Let's get this trip started then, to the Everfreeeeee! ". Once more Fluttershy shrieked in surprise when Pinkie took her by force and ran like a maniac in the direction of the dangerous forest.
A FEW HOURS LATER IN THE EVERFREE FOREST...
" I, I think we're lost Pinkie, uff, uff, we should, uff we should take a break ". Fluttershy gave up against gravity and laid down on the grass as Pinkie with her boundless energy just kept jumping here and there, by now she was sporting an explorer hat and binoculars that she produced from her fluffy mane. " Shouldn't we check the map Pinkie? By now we should have made it to the castle but I can't see anything yet ".
" Map? We have a map? ". Pinkie asked as she sat next to her, this time pulling out of her mane an ice cream of all things.
" Wait! Didn't you have a map? But what about the big piece of paper that you have been reading since we got into the forest? ". Fluttershy asked as she too pulled out a half hey sandwich.
" Oh! You mean this! ". Pinkie pulled a large paper from her mane and showed it to her. The ' Map ' was in reality a poster for the new event Trixie was going to perform in Ponyville.
" Pi-Pinkie! What is this? Have you been following this the whole time?! ".
" Of course not silly willy,I kept looking at the poster so that I won't forget to go when the show arrives, aaaand we have been following my Pinkie sense! ".
" Your Pinkie sense? But then, how come we're still lost in the forest? It won't be long before it gets dark and then it will be really dangerous to be here! ". Fluttershy asked in panic, her lunch forgotten now.
" Hmmm, about that, if my Pinkie sense is keeping us here it must be for something important, so here we stay! By the way, are you gonna eat that sandwich? ".
" I, we, I, Pi-Pinkie Pie! ".
" Oh oh, we're practicing introductions for when we arrive? Nice idea Fluttershy! I knew we would make a great team! Ok, my now, Hi! I'm Pinkie! ". The pink pony extended a leg for Fluttershy to hoofbump but the yellow pegasus wasn't listening. In rare occasions, when presented with moments of extreme annoyance, fear or anxiety, Fluttershy sometimes would erupt in bouts of fury to cope with the situation, this was one of those occasions.
" Pinkie! I can believe that you would act this immature! ". Pinkie reacted shocked.
" Have you forgotten how dangerous this place is at night? Have you? Well I haven't! ". Pinkie's eyes went wide at what she saw.
" I know you're not doing this on purpose or to cause harm to us, but even so, I can't let this slide without a proper lecture young mare! ".
" Uh Fluttershy? ".
" No Pinkie! I'm been serious right now, don't you hear my tone of anger? ". Pinkie was about to say that her ' angry tone ' sounded just a few decibels above her normal tone, but she decided to keep quiet, first to not offend her friend, second, to inform her of the danger approaching.
" We, are on an important mission, given to us by Princess Celestia no less, we must do or best to accomplish this and remain safe and sound to return back to our families and friends! ".
" Fluttershy! ". Pinkie called again but Fluttershy continued.
" Imagine of you gets injured, imagine of something awful happens to you, who do you think has to inform the Cakes of your condition, hmm? Who's gonna tell Gummy that you were injured because you didn't payed enough attention? ".
" Flu-Fluttershy?! ". Pinkie asked again.
" You feel bad right? You don't want that to happen, right? Then please, for our same and our safe return, take this more seriously! ".
The pink earth pony broke in tears and hugged her friend. " Bwaaaaah! I'm sorry Fluttershy! I'm really really sorry! You're right, you're absolutely right! I should be more careful, could you forgive me? ".
" There there, I forgive you Pinkie, I know I can be sound like a real meanie when I get upset but what I said needed to be said, I hope you have learned your lesson ". Fluttershy said as she returned the hug.
" I sure did Fluttershy, I sure did, now I will be more careful, Pinkie promise ". She did her signature gesture to seal the deal.
" Good, now then, what were you trying to said back then? ".
" Oh nothing important, just that something is falling from the sky and is going to crash near us, look, is almost here ". Pinkie pointed to the bright object coming at terminal speed.
" What?! ". Fluttershy just managed to turn and see the meteorite straight just a few meters away from them, a flash almost as strong as the one they saw when Twilight became an Alicorn blinded both mares, an incredible boom was heard that traveled for miles away scaring off even the more ferocious of predators. Both mare were hurled back y the force of the impact followed by an unnatural quietness, just as it came, it was gone, and both mares were still alive.
" Well, that was anticlimactic ". Said Pinkie as she removed invisible dust from her fur. " You can let go now ". Sha said to the butter colored mare that was trembling and cutting the circulation from her leg.
" So-sorry ".
" Hey look! There's something over there! ". Pinkie jumped without fear toward where the rock landed, still scared, Fluttershy followed. When she arrived to the impact zone she found the area unchanged.
" That's... weird, there's no crater, no heat, everything seems the same! ". Commented Fluttershy surprised.
" Yeah, what did I tell you, anticlimactic, well, nothing to see I guess, oh except for the weird egg over there ". Fluttershy followed her sight and was perplexed as to how she missed the object.
Carefully she approached the oval shaped rock, indeed it looked like an egg, the shape was an instant giveaway. " This is..! ". Her fear was replaced with wonder as she approached more, the egg was just there, laying over what seemed to be a pelt of some animal, the egg was the same color as the pelt.
" Wow! Imagine the size of the omelet you can make with an egg this big! ".
" Pinkie! What are you even saying we can't harm this poor little egg! We must protect it! ". Fluttershy said passionately as her animal lover instinct took over.
" But, you just broke it ".
" Wha are you ta-oh I touched it ". Fluttershy realize too late that she made contact with the egg and now it begun to crack. " Oh princesses! I hope I didn't hurt the little hatchling! ". The egg continued to crack until a light erupted from the inside forcing the mares to cover their eyes, when the light dissipated, a small red blob appeared.
" Uh, what is that? ". Pinkie touched the blob with the tip of her hoof and then took a lick at it. " Hmm, it is not strawberry jelly ".
" Pinkie! ". The warning came to late, the small blob stirred at the contact and slowly started to move, from the top part three small bumps appeared, then a mouth that opened with a yawn, finally two eyes set on the girls, first in Fluttershy, then in Pinkie.
" Puni?! ". The little red blob said after waking up from its egg, an egg that fell from the sky no less, but right now Fluttershy couldn't care less about meteors or cat like creatures or world ending shenanigans, her eyes were glued to the most adorable and cutest little things she had ever seen, back in her cottage Angel bunny felt as if somepony just kicked his spleen.
Back with Fluttershy, she waited patiently as the new born looked around, then its little eyes eyes set back on her. " Puni? ". Asked the red blob once more, but less surprised and more curious.
" Hello little one, don't be afraid ". The yellow Pegasus used her sweet voice reserved only for situations like this one when she needed to make a small critter feel safe.
The blob looked her intensely, tilting its body to the side, it made a small slide forward. " Oh! You're so cute, come, I can carry you, don't be shy ". The red mass looked as the mare extended her hoof fro him to touch, the little alien looked at the yellow hoof, then back at her smiling face, then back to the hoof, it jiggled and jerked, moving up and down like a red accordion, then, convinced that there was no threat coming from the pony he moved forward, only for a pink and long tongue to lick him up once more.
" Nope, definitely not taste like strawberry jelly ". Pinky said after carefully asserted the flavor. Unlike last time, this time the hatchling reacted to the touch of the pink pony with fright. " Puni! ". The blob jumped away from both mares and back to the egg, then he retracted his body as much as he could to make himself smaller, all while trembling.
" Pinky pie! ". The yellow mare turned to her friend with anger and bloodshot eyes. " Don't, do, that, again! ". She poked her in the chest with every word said.
" But-?! ".
" No buts! Do that again, and I'll have ants eating every cupcake you make from now on, got it? ". The pink earth pony nodded earnestly. " Good, now, ahem, where was I? ".
" About to enslave a small alien creature with your voice? ". Pinky said.
" Yes I... No! That's not what I was going to do Pinkie! ". The pegasus corrected in a hurry.
While the two mares disputed, the little lost animal looked around, his surrounding looked completely different from what he expected, apart from that, he couldn't remember ever to meet two creatures like those. They looked like an Unimon, except for the fur color, the size, one was missing the wings and both were missing the horn and the metal helmet. The creatures were definitely strange ones but he knew that the Digital world was vast and in constant change which means they probably were just Digimon he never met before but his major concern came not from them but from the place he found himself at, there was a feeling of wrongness coming from the very place they were standing.
Another look around, told him that his friend was not present at the moment, he couldn't see the black blob that was Botamon, the initial form of Agumon, maybe he was still inside his egg or he has just left before him, it wouldn't be the first time that the more adventurous Botamon wondered around after just hatching but the area looked nothing like the Patch of Restart, there was no Elecmon either.
" Puni ". Still confused and a bit distrustful of the two weird ones, Punimon decided to venture around for a bit, he jumped off from his egg and wobbled his way away from the mares still bickering, he was aware that the place looked dangerous but standing in the same spot wouldn't solve him a thing, besides, he was starting to get hungry. As stealthy as a legless jello mass could be, he slipped away.
" And that's why you must never interrupt my ritual of bonding with a critter, never! ". Said Fluttershy as she shook Pinkie by the neck like a mobster extorting money from a victim.
" Flu-tter-shy?! ". Pinkie said with difficulty.
" What?! ".
" Can't, breathe! ". The pink pony said almost turning blue now.
" Oh my! ". She let go of her friend who landed hard on the ground. " I'm sorry Pinkie, I got a bit carried away ". The yellow pony declared now shying away from her actions.
" I say, hey! The little alien thing is gone! ". Pinkie said as she rubbed her neck.
" Pinkie, stop calling it an ali-wait what?! ". The mare turned to where the egg was left o my to find it empty indeed, she jerked her head left and right trying to find the red baby blob but found no signs of it. " Oh no, oh no, oh no! What do we do Pinkie? What do we do? We can't let it alone, it could get hurt, or worst! ".
" No problem! ". Pinkie shoved her hooves inside her hair and draw out a couple of items that she quickly out on, now she was dressed with a cap and a cape of matching brown color, along that, she had now a huge minifying glass and a terrible British accent. " Follow me my dear Flutters, we should have this case closed before dinner! ". Pinkie proclaimed and immediately she inspected the ground finding a small trail, she followed it with Fluttershy in tow.
A good distance away, Punimon continued sliding forward trying to find any landmark that could give him an idea of where has he restarted but the forest only gave him darkness and cold, the night would be falling soon but so far no other Digimon has crossed his path and that worried him even more.
Never since the appearance of the Dark masters did the Digital world looked so empty and spooky, or maybe it was the fact that he was alone, all alone, no Botamon, no Matt, no one. That realization hit him harder than Myotismon when they fought in the human world, fear and loneliness creep at him, his kind was well known for been why and reclusive, only when a Gabumon donned his fur did its personality turned a 180 and became a ferocious beast.
" Puni! ". His fur, he remembered, he left his fur just under the egg, he needed his fur, without it he would be totally helpless. Turning left and right, Punimon tried to identify the direction where he came from, even if he had to cross paths with those two weird Digimon he saw back there it did little to discourage him, it was imperative to get his fur.
He started the trek back, he advanced further and further in the direction he thought was the right one but eventually he had to stop for a moment when his entire body shook from hunger, it hurt him but he decided to ignore it and continue, it wasn't long before his hunger force him to stop once more, this time the hunger came with dizziness and he had to wait until getting his stability back, he closed his eyes to made the effect pass faster but not a few seconds later a low growling made him open his eyes wide, at first he thought it was his own stomach doing it but when the sound was heard again he saw where it came from.
A huge snake with pure black skin crawled out of a nearby bush, a predator from the deepest parts of the Everfree forest, parts so black and sinister that the scales of this giant reptile may as well absorb any kind of light shone upon it just like the forest itself, ts head alone was bigger that the poor Digimon and its elongated body seemed endless, the smaller creature trembled as the reptile got closer and closer, not going directly but surrounding him with its long body. " Pu, Pu-ni?! ".
The snake raised its head far above its pray, never letting him out of its sight, the snake tasted the air with its forked tongue, it tasted the sweet fragrance of fear, rearing its head back, the serpent attacked.
NOT FAR FROM THERE...
" Hmmm, yes, yes indeed, is just as I suspected ". Detective Pinkie proclaimed with satisfaction.
" Did, did you find its trail? Did you Pinkie? Please tell me you did ". Fluttershy asked feeling hope swell.
" Indeed! I found out that... We're completely lost, my glass must be going bad or something ". Pinkie responded as she tapped the glass with her hoof.
" Wha-what? But, but the hatchling? What if it get eaten? Pinkie?! ". Fluttershy implored.
" Don't worry Fluttershy, I'm sure non of the creatures in the Everfree like alien jelly, besides, if something has were to happen my Pinkie's sense would turn uuuuuuup! ". Pinkie started shaking as if she was over a mini earthquake at the end of the shakes she was left pointing in a specific direction with both hoof and hair. " That way! Trouble! ".
" Oh no! ". Without waiting for more instructions, Fluttershy bolted at top speed, ignoring her characteristic fears and insecurities, the life of an innocent critter was in danger and she wouldn't risk it dwelling on those right now. Meanwhile, Pinkie looked back and saw the egg dissolve into small luminescent squares that soon disappeared, leaving only the white and blue pelt, she took it and place it inside her puffy hair. " May come in handy later, maybe during a character development plot, or to make a nice sweater ". Done with that, the pink pony rushed behind her friend.
NEARBY...
The snake snapped it jaws shot over the red target, but at the last second Punimon expanded his body over the ground as much as possible to avoid becoming been devoured. After the close call, he moved away from the snake but been surrounded by its body it was just impossible, he tried to jump over the black barrier but the snake easily pushed him back by rising that section of its body, the impact while not hard was still augmented by lack of energy. Punimon used the last of his strength in one last maneuver, when the snake went for another strike, Punimon jumped to meet the snake mid-air, the crash was completely unexpected by the long reptile which was hit square on the snout and send reeling back, Punimon tried his best to use the chance and escape but no matter how much he pushed his body, he couldn't even stand up.
" Pu...ni ". With a heavy sadness, the little Digimon realize this was as far as he would go, in that instant, memories of his time with Matt and his friends returned, they were hazy but still made his heart ache, if there was any chance to see them again it would be lost in a few seconds, the tears started to flow, and the cry of broken hopes.
The snake came out of its momentary paralysis and found the red blob crying for his life, with an angry hiss it lashed once more at its little red snack. " Stoooooop! ". The snake was denied for a second time its meal, this time by a yellow projectile that smashed its face so hard that it knocked it back to the ground. This time the damage was greater and the snake could feel a few of its fangs coming loose from the impact.
" You will not have this little one as your food! ". Said the angry yellow pony that crashed the snake's face. Fluttershy landed next to the Digimon and pulled him into her embrace and started calming him down. " Don't worry little one, you're safe now, you're safe now, don't be afraid, Auntie Fluttershy is here ". Fluttershy cuddled the blob like a new born pony, at first it seemed to be ineffective but little by little, the small creature ceased his crying and instead looked at her. " Ouh, aren't you a cutie? Are you ok? Did the big bad snake hurt you? ".
The hatchling in her arms didn't answer, but the snake did with a ferocious hiss, angrier than ever before, the reptile rose once more to stand above her targets menacingly, but the look the snake gave was giving was returned by the one from the pegasus mare. " Didn't you hear me the first time? I do not want to hurt you but Celestia help me, I will if you don't cease now! ".
For its first time since been hatched in this dark and dangerous forest, the snake felt fear, it pushed it to run, to abandon its enemies and leave, to look for food somewhere else, away from the yellow mare, but basic instincts won, the snake wouldn't be leaving without revenge of without something to throw down its throat. Fighting the fear of the stare, the snake prepared to devour everything in front of it and Fluttershy was ready to prevent that although she didn't want to hurt the animal.
It opened it's jaws as wide as possible showing its fangs in all its glory, its sustenance wouldn't be denied a third time. " Watch out belloooolw! ". The missing Party planner came flying toward the snake who once again was too unprepared for such a thing, but this time the pain would be far more intense as Pinkie collided with the snake head on, the snake already bruised and weakened by two more headbutts, Pinkie, well protected by a stun helmet used for daredevil acrobatics.
It was over, the black animal landed with an extra lump on its head, the serpent then took the best option and retreated no longer caring for hunger, it was now obvious for the predator that fighting up front was bad idea so it made its way back to the bush where it came from, it only turned its head one more time to let it's tongue taste the smell of each of the Invaders, it would memorize them and if their paths crossed once more, it would have its revenge.
" Pinkie! How did you got here? ".
" Party cannon, never leave my house without it, although I didn't expected a snake to use its face to cushion my landing, pretty nice of it ". Pinkie said without much worry of the reality.
" Thanks Pinkie, now then ". Fluttershy sat down, she place Punimon in front of her. " Do you feel better now, we're friends here ". She gave her another sweet smile to make him feel at ease, while still tearing up a little, he called down.
" Puni ".
" I'm sorry that you have to pass through this, but this place we're in is pretty dangerous as you saw, would you to come with us? ". Punimon watched her with curiosity, her eyes radiating nothing but kindness, suddenly, an image of a blonde 10 year old with blue eyes appeared next to the yellow pony.
" Puni? ".
Of course it wasn't him, but somehow this unknown Digimon showed a similar vibe to his former partner making the sadness diminish considerably. " Puni! ". The little Digimon answered with more energy and jumped up and down showing a positive emotion for the first time since arriving.
" You do? Oh that's wonderful, now we just need to-! ".
" Fluttershy! Look! Look! ". Pinkie interrupted jumping in happiness, Fluttershy turned to see what made her so excited, which could be almost anything. To her relief, there was real reason to be happy, just pass the the treeline, the top of one of the towers from the Sister's castle was now visible.
" We're close! We can make camp inside the castle and pass the night! ". Fluttershy explained to her new companion, then a growling came from the little guy. " And have dinner too, I think we deserve it ". Safely mounted on the back of the pegasus, the three travelers moved on.
AT A TOWN NEAR THE EVERFREE FOREST...
Silently jumping through the roofs of houses and business, a black figure made her way, although it was very late, some ponies patrolled the streets bellow and pegasus did the same from the sky, not many, but still enough to cause mild annoyance to the night invader.
" Nyah, ha ha! Looks like they got fed up with my little games, hm shoould I get a little more... evil? ". The black cat looked from her point of view and found a silo which the citizens used to store their emergency supply of hay, destroying it would force the ponies to increase work and reduce servings which would increase the overall condition of the whole town for the worse. " Nyah ha ha! That should do the trick! ".
Despite the security and the many eyes on watch, the troublemaker still found her way rather easily, soon she was near the silo, she looked around for tools that would allow her to ruin the food and a nearby lit street lamp provided just that.
With incredible acrobatics and sharp class, the mischievous cat took the lamp and cut a hole big enough to throw it inside, then she ran to another house to look closer at her handiwork. It didn't took long for the silo to catch fire, a yell from one of the ponies patrolling the street alerted the rest as to what was going on.
Chaos soon spread causing many other ponies to burst outbox their houses in worry or just curiosity, that soon changed to full out panic when the silo became engulfed in fire, many ponies brought buckets with water in either mouth or carried by magic, the pegasi collected clouds over the silo and with kicks and jumps caused rain to pour down on the burning structure, all the while, the entire town became alive with yells of despair and fear, exactly what the cat wanted, the negativity was for her a exquisite perfume that made her sigh in happiness, the cries of sorrow and outrage were like music to her ears.
" Nyah ha ha ha! Yes, YES! Are you watching My dear Lord Piedmon? Are you proud of me? You are, aren't you? ". There was no answer of course, long was Piedmon gone, defeated by the impertinent DigiDestined and their chosen Digimon, too bad she couldn't get back at them for their atrocity, that's the only thing that could make this even better.
" There it is! ". Yelled one of the ponies. " The weird cat is right there, laughing! ". Murmurs soon accompanied the noise of the fire been extinguished but gradually turned into shouts of rage directed at the black cat. That was the last straw in what was several days of vandalism, violence and terrorism, and the ponies had enough. " Nyah ha ha! You want to play? Then see if you can get me first dunkies! ". The chase was on.
OLD CASTLE OF THE SISTERS...
After securing a room to pass the night, Fluttershy, Pinkie and Punimon took the time to have dinner, however, things took an unexpected turn for the ponies. " Pinkie, you only packed sweets to travel? Would you get sick from it? ". Pinkie, who by now had several iced cupcakes stuck inside her mouth gave her a dumbfounded look. " Sorry, I know, silly question, anyway, I'll eat the food I brought and I'll give some to our new friend ".
She turned to the third party who was curiously watching them, Fluttershy presented him with a fruits of different kind. " Sorry, I don't know what exactly do your kind eat but berries are good for everyone, well, almost everyone, just be careful to-! ". Before she could finish, the red blob jumped up and started eating of everything, berries, strawberries, a banana, a few apples and he even tried to chomp an entire bunch of grapes, all without slowing down, when the fruit was gone, he set his eyes okay few cupcakes Pinkie hasn't touched, but instead of going for those he watched the pink earth pony, then to the cupcakes, then back to Pinkie. " You want those? Yeah, go ahead, I don't like Pistachio flavor anyway ". With her blessing give it, Punimon devoured the pastries as well, after a good burp, the Digimon rested his body on the cobblestone floor.
" Oh my! It was really hungry ". Fluttershy said as she broke a piece of bread and started eating.
" Meh, I can eat more that it ". Pinkie said casually, as she too rested over the floor after having her fill. After a few more minutes of idle chat between the mares they decided to call it a day and sleep, each prepared their respective sleeping bag and snuggle in Pinkie was snoring as soon as she was on hers but Fluttershy waited.
" Do you want to sleep next to me? ". Fluttershy asked Punimon who after a few seconds of consideration jumped in with her. Fluttershy wrapped him between her fretlocks and rested her head next to his. " Goodnight little one, tomorrow will be better, I'm sure of it ". Fluttershy fell sleep with the fresh sensation that the body of little Digimon gave her.
A few hours after the trio felt sleep, a mysterious light erupted from the sleeping bag of the yellow made, and despite been more intense that the light from the candle that illuminated the room it didn't disturbed the rest of the two ponies, until the next day.
Fluttershy yawned as she came out of her slumber, she stretched her legs and wings to commence the new day and continue with the mission Princess Celestia gave then, then suddenly she remembered that she wasn't alone last night. " Little one? Little one?! Oh no! Where are you now? Did the evil snake came back and took it? Did it run away again? Did my morning breath scared it? Where are you little one?! Pinkie, help me! ".
" Uh, Fluttershy, the alien jelly baby is over here, I think? ". Pinkie called from the front of the chamber near the door.
" Where! Where is it? And what do you mean, you think? ". Fluttershy hurried to see what she meant. When she reached Pinkie, she saw directly to where Pinkie was looking. She saw not the red blob that until yesterday was know as Punimon but instead she saw another creature entirely half hidden behind the doorway.
" Eh, he-hello? ". Called the small creature. Fluttershy stepped forward trying to see this new critter better. It was a small round creature covered with with white fur on the face but orange in the rest of its body, it had red eyes and lacked any legs, but its most prominent feature was the black inverted horn coming out of the top front of its face.
Fluttershy wasn't sure if it was part of her special talent or just her experience accumulated through the years of caring for other animals, but without need to ask or proof, she knew that the new creature in front of her was the same she just slept with.
" Little one? ".
" Hm, I... I'm... my name is Tsunomon and, I wanted to, say thanks, for saving me yesterday ". The In-training Digimon said.
Tsunomon, as he presented himself, looked at her with a shyness that Fluttershy knew all too well, it was the same with her whenever she met a new pony or creature, reason why she kept her distance and let her little furball friend get his courage first.
" Hello, my name is Fluttershy, and this is Pinkie Pie, don't be afraid, we won't harm you ". Fluttershy used her soft but confident tone to convince the little Digimon that she spoke the true, she sat and waited until Tsunomon decided that continue from there.
" I, I know you're not gonna hurt me ". The round creature jumped closer to the yellow mare letting her see him better now, at this new distance Fluttershy could make his features better, like the little fangs protruding out of his mouth and the light blush of embarrassment. " I wanted to thank you fo-for helping me back then ".
" Uh uh uh! Fluttershy look, it can talk now! Pinkie happily pointed to the obvious. " Not a problem little friend, anytime, but what happened to you? Why aren't you jelly anymore? What's that big horn coming out of your head? Does it hurt? Does it have magic like the horns of unicorns? Can I get one too? Is your inside still jelly? Are you like a filled donut? Are there an entire race of filled pastries trying to take over our world? What's your naphmmmmmh! ".
Having enough of the barrage of questions, Fluttershy dunk her hoof in Pinkie's mouth to shut her up. " Pinkie! You're scaring it! ". Fluttershy turned to the little critter who was has retreated back to the doorway. " I'm sorry, my friend is a little too talkative but she's a good pony, we're sorry again ".
" O-ok, I, I'm ok, I'm just not use to been alone again after so long ".
" Alone? Are you lost? Did you lost somepony? ". Fluttershy asked.
" I, I, fri, friend, partner, Matt, ugh ". The fuzzy ball begun to tear up as memories of his human friend came back to torment him of what he just lost, his tears quickly marked a wet path on his orange fur as the pain in his heart made him felt cold. With his eyes closed he could only tremble at the thought of living with a hole in his life, a hole that no amount of data could fill.
His cry was interrupted when something warm and soft engulfed him, his eyes opened immediately but all he could distinguish was a delicate coat of yellow fur and a voice so sweet that reminded him of Matt's armonica.
Don't cry little baby, Please don't cry, I'll give you a hug so please smile.
I know you're hurting, but please don't cry, I'll give you a hug and a lullaby.
I came here to play, so please don't cry I'll give you a hug be day or night.
If still feeling sad, and need some more, just baby don't cry and I'll give you more hugs.
Be one or a thousand, my hugs won't stop, till' your tears run dry and your heart feels full, of warm and affection of love and joy, so please don't cry instead rejoice.
The small Digimon all but forgot his sadness as he listened to the angelical voice of the pegasus mare. Fluttershy for her part was also surprised if her actions, understanding that her body moved in automatic seen a small creature suffer in front of her.
" Sorry ". Fluttershy let go of the orange furball but he wasn't crying anymore. " Are you feeling better? ".
" I, I do, thanks ". The Digimon looked at her with wonder, it was becoming for him more clearly that this new Digimon were more like himself and his friends, not like the wild ones that roamed the Digital World in search for pray and battle. Knowing this he became more open.
" Thanks again, for the food and everything, like I said before, My name is Tsunomon, I'm looking for my friend, he's a Botamon, or maybe a Koromon, or even an Agumon!".
" Your, your friend? You're missing a friend? Oh no, we should help you, right Pinkie? ". Fluttershy turned around only to find the pink mare crying instead. " Pinkie! ".
" So so so beautiful! That song, mwhaaaaa mwhaaaa! Can I get a hug too? ". Pinkie asked as her tears practically turned into waterfalls.
Fluttershy hugged her friend tried to call her down but turned to the other one. " So you lost three friends in total? ".
Tsunomon shook his head, which was his entire body really. " Only one, he shouldn't be too far from where I restarted ".
" But, you mentioned three names, and what do you mean by ' restarted ' ? ". Asked Fluttershy after letting go of Pinkie.
The Digimon stopped to think, now more calm he started to notice pretty unusual details, for once, so far the whole area he had been around was strange, devoid of machinery or electric components. Second was th two creatures with him, in his long life he has seen many kinds of Digimon, data, vaccines and viruses, In-training, rookies, champions, Ultimates and even many Megas, yet those and the snake that tried to eat him before felt different, more like Matt and the other humans felt, that and their names.
" So, your friend have three names? ". Pinkie asked in awe. " And here I thought we exaggerated with names like Dinkle Bob Peppersmith Jr ".
" No no, he only has one, but I don't know in which level he is right now ".
" Psst psst, Fluttershy, I think that horn may have pierced his thinking box ". Pinkie whispered to her winged friend.
" Stop it Pinkie ". Fluttershy tried to ask again. " Sorry, but we don't understand what 'level' has to do with the name of your friend, instead, why don't you tell us how he looks, maybe we have seen him somewhere ".
Tsunomon wondered why didn't they understood him, was he in some backward part of the Digital World where the habitants were dumb? Well, not that he could brag of been smart or know-it-all, Tentomon was the smartest of the group and even him got things wrong pretty often.
" Ok, if my friend is still a Botamon he'll be around my size when I was Punimon but he will be black in color, if he evolved already into Koromon he'll be pink with long ears and around my size, if he further evolved he'll look like a yellow dinosaur and will walk in two legs, I don't think he would go Champion so fast so you don't need to know how he looks as Graymon ".
" Ooooh that explains everything, easy peasy ". Pinkie once more whispered. "Fluttershy, maybe he has the same thing that Granny Smith has ".
" Pinkie, he's not senile, I think that he is not from their world, remember what we saw before finding the egg? ".
" Ooooh! You mean that my alien theory is real?! ".
" Maybe, I don't know but, maybe Twilight or one of the Princesses knows something more, but for now we can't let him alone in here ". Fluttershy turned to Tsunomon again. " Sorry Tsunomon, but haven't seen or heard from somepony, or somecreature like you describe ".
Hearing this, Tsunomon became crestfallen. " But, there's a few ponies that may know about it, my friend Twilight for example, she's very intelligent and has a lot of other friends that may have heard or seen your friend somewhere in Equestria! ".
" Really? You think she would help me? ". Tsunomon asked with hope high.
" Of course she would, she's the princess of Friendship after all! ".
" Princess? Friendship? ".
" Yes, she loves to help anypony that needs her, I'm sure with her we'll find your friend faster, right Pinkie? ".
" Twilight? Pffff! Easy, just as long as she doesn't go through one of her mad neurotic episodes because she feels she's under achieving, sure ".
" Alright! Then take me where she is, please? ".
The two mares exchanged uncomfortable looks. " Hm, I wish we could do it now but you see we're-! ".
" We're in the middle of a mission to save a town from some eeeeevil cat-like guy, it's very important that we get there first and save them from it ". Pinkie interrupted.
" Oh, so, that means that until you're done with your mission you can't take me there?". The Digimon asked.
" Unfortunately, yes. I really would love to help you right away, but this job came from one of the princesses, so we can't avoid it, plus, this place is very dangerous to send you off by yourself so it would be better if you come with us, wouldn't you? ". Fluttershy suggested.
Tsunomon thought about it, they horse-like creatures didn't seem to be lying, as for the danger of the place? Just remembering the snake that almost had him for lunch send chills down his entire body. Not finding further options, he accepted.
" Ok, I'll go with you, you gave me food after all, and saved me, I'll help.tou out! I mean, if you need my help ". Tsunomon became bashful at the end.
" You will? That's wonderful, then let's have some breakfast and then let's be on our way ". The two ponies and the Digimon cheerfully continued to know more about each other as they interacted.
ON THE TOWN NEAR THE EVERFREE FOREST...
Despite their best efforts, the ponies failed to even land a bit on the evil black cat that was terrorizing their home. One by one, the patrol ponies that gave chase to the mischievous feline were put down, some with scratches, some with punches or bites, some simply by crashing against objets while trying to grab hold of it, but at the end, the whole patrol was injured and unable to continue defending the town.
The desperation only free after finding out how much food they lost with the fire from last night. The situation was just baffling for them.
" This one is no good either ". Said an old doctor earth pony after checking the wing of the last pegasus. " She won't be able to fly for a few days until the bone heals ".
" Bu-but what about the town's watch? There's almost nopony left! ". Asked the mayor of the town, his voice hiding nothing of his gear and frustration.
" We'll have to do with what's left, and maybe even have some of the other folks help around, I know the patrol is important but look what just happened, that cat injured more than 12 ponies in one night alone and if you send them back without recovering first, you will be talking about them with the undertaker instead of me! ".
" But without the patrol that cat will destroy everything! ". Protested the mayor.
" I don't think so, I believe so far that... cat, has been harassing us to get a reaction, at first ignoring it was keeping things modest but as soon as we became more antagonist of it it's antics became more aggressive, look now, we tried to hurt it and it was the patrol that end it all bang up! ".
" I can see that, but what would you have us do then? If we ignore it it's just gonna keep wrecking out town! ".
" We don't need to confront it, just hold back until help from Canterlot arrives, I'm sure they will be here soon enough and then it'll up to them to deal with that creature, I'm sure that Princess Celestia send her best guards to take care of this ". Said the doctor convinced.
" Hmm, for our same and the town's, I hope your right ".
" Don't sorry my friend, you'll see, I can see already those brave ponies coming to save us, we have nothing to fear ".
EVERFREE FOREST...
" I'm scared ". Fluttershy said with trembling tone.
" Come on Shy! It's just a bit high, just flap your wings like you always do and you can reach the ledge ". Pinkie encouraged her friend who looked around to see any possible danger, she found not immediate trouble but found Tsunomon looking at her.
Not wanting to discourage her new companion by showing such her worst side, she braved up and prepared to jump, she lowered her body to jump and take air, but then she noticed a few things that made her lose her focus. The ledge where Pinkie was waiting was surrounded by thick thorny bushes, the safe area where she could land was not very wide, a little mistake could have her end up in a dangerous situation. The difficulty of the task along her low self-confidence made her hesitant once more.
" Are you worried about the thorns? ". Asked Tsunomon standing next to Pinkie, the earth made having helping him up.
" I, well, I, ye-yes ". Fluttershy admitted with shame.
Tsunomon took a look at the bushes, indeed they looked quite dangerous, he found his yellow companion to be rightfully cautious about her task, another look bellow showed him that she was taking it badly, luckily, he had a way to help her.
" I'll help out, stay back! ". Tsunomon bounced near the closest bush, then he took a deep gulp of air and blew it back out. " BUBBLES! ". From his mouth, a stream of bubbles flew towards the bush he aimed for, Pinkie Pie saw the weird display and thought that the logic behind it did as much sense as she herself did most of the time.
The bubbles hit the bushes as intended, and as expected, they blew up in contact with the first thorn, but that was as far as things kept been normal, for the thorn along the everything else near or attached to it blew out of existence the same thing happened again when the rest of the bubbles popped, making the loudest popping sound Pinkie or anypony in Equestria ever heard.
The last of the bubbles passed through the now half blasted bush and stroke the one next to it doing the same kind of damage with the same cacophony of destruction. By the end, a wide area was cleared out of thorny bushes, making the ledge safer for the pegasus to fly to.
" Pi-Pinkie! What was that?! Are you and Tsuno ok? Was that your party cannon?! Answer me please! ". Not receiving an immediate answer Fluttershy threw her safety away and replaced it with fear for her friends' lives, with speed that even Rainbow Dash would proud of Fluttershy jumped and flew where her two companion were waiting.
She landed and quickly inspected the situation. " What! What happened?! Are you two ok? What was that loud bang I heard?! ". She asked in worry.
Pinkie was in petrified shock, her mind processing what she just saw while Tsunomon watched her with curiosity. " Oh, you made it up here! That's good! ". Said the Digimon.
" Tsunomon, are you ok? What happened here? And why is Pinkie like... like this?! ".
" I'm fine, she's too, I think, she froze like that after seeing my bubble attack blow the bushes, but I don't know why ".
Fluttershy saw that indeed, one of the bushes that prevented her safe landing was no more in the way, there were pieces at the side, sings that the bush didn't just disappeared but was destroyed by something.
" You, you said that you blew it with... bubbles? ".
The little furball jumped happily. " Exactly! My bubble attack! I also have my horn attack, but using it on thorns looks like a bad idea ".
" Bubbles? ". Asked the pegasus again still in disbelief, she could have expected such nonsense coming from Pinkie Pie or Discord but now she was dealing with another creature that defied the laws of common sense in Equestria.
" Yes! And it was awesome! ". Said Pinkie, apparently now free from her previous paralysis. " You should have seen it! First he was like, buruburuburu, then the bubbles flew like little cannonballs but more soppy and cute, and I was like, hmm, this seems interesting, then they blew and the bush was like bang! Bang bang! Bang ba-mp! ". Fluttershy once more had to stop her friend from rambling her ears off by shoving her hoof on her mouth once more.
" I, I think I get it Pinkie, please, just, let me get this ". Fluttershy turned to her new friend. " Hmm, Tsunomon? ".
" Yes? ".
" Do you, do you have more dangerous attacks that we should know about? ".
" Yeah! Do you have laser eyes? Can you launch your horn at enemies? Do you have psychic powers? Can your burps freeze things? Can your sneezes create tornados? TELL US! ". Each question got Pinkie more excited and unhinged, causing th shy Digimon to hear de behind the shy pegasus.
" Pinkie! Please, you're scaring him again ". Fluttershy turned on to her other companion with worry, she wasn't too thrilled by the news that this cute little creature had such dangerous abilities. " Sorry for asking but, please, try not to use your, uh? Bubbles or any other, attack in front of other ponies please, they could get scared of you if they see ".
" Uh? Scared? Why? Don't they have attacks of their own? ". Asked Tsunomon confused.
" I, we don't have that kind of things, I mean, at least I think we don't, Pinkie? ".
" I don't know, does Dashy's Sonic Rainboom counts? Or your ability to talk to animals? Or Rarity's gem finding sense? Now that I think about it, you girls are pretty weird, am I the only normal pony among us? ". Said the pinkie mare.
" A-Anyway, just in front of other ponies, please don't use your bubbles, or any other surprise that you have, ok? Please? ".
" Hmm, ok, I don't mind, you're helping me find my friend after all ".
" Thank you, and I promise that we'll help you as soon as we're back ".
" Then let's go, let's go! I want to see what kind of food they have where we're going! ".
" Adventure! ". Pinkie once more took lead as the small group kept their march.
NEAR THE TOWN...
Feline eyes inspected the small community from the shadows of the Everfree as a sense of glee was accumulating in the owner. She could feel it, the negative energy coming from the distressed town, energy that would help her get back to her real form, to her beautiful and horrific form.
Still, it was not enough, she needed more chaos, more suffering, she started small thinking incorrectly that that would be enough to trigger her next evolution, when she realized that she needed more she increased the level of harassment on the habitants, destroying or stealing their stuff, causing fights among them, scaring them at night, and still was not enough, then she went further up, first by deprive them of their food supply and now even attacking those who came chasing her.
Now the amount of energy she was getting was greater but still lacking, which meant that she had only one path left, to attack the residents directly, no more tricks or half assed confrontations, just like she did with the bunch of equines that tried to catch her, she would drive her claws into the hide of every single habitant.
However, a growl from the belly of the feline Digimon broke her concentration in one go. " Dang! Can't believe I'm this hungry again! ". Cursed the black cat, since her arrival into this strange world she found herself in the need of constant search for food. Back in the Digital world she would feed off weaker Digimon thanks to her special ability, LIFE DRAIN, however, that attack was not available for her in her current Champion form so she needed to consume nutrients the old fashion way, which meant she had to hunt for fruits, nuts or small animals that were unlucky enough to cross her path, but that too wasn't getting her full.
" Guh! Just playing with those flying horses took much of my stamina, and those horned ones are almost as annoying as those stupid kids from back then! ". Complained the virus Digimon.
Her plan was now to go to a small stream that passed near the edge of the forest and caught some fish, that was her most successful hunting area.
" Stupid happy little town, enjoy the little peace you have left ". After one final look, she jumped back into the Everfree.
EVERFREE FOREST...
Fluttershy watched as her two companions bounced ahead of her, the two chatted away about mundane things, mostly food, Pinkie would mention all the kinds of pastries that made in Sugarcube Corner while Tsunomon talked about strange food names like Teriyaki, Tempura, Sushi, Hamburgers, and many other that Fluttershy never heard before, most likely food from where he came from.
While this happened, Fluttershy walked behind them in silence since she had little to none that she could contribute to the talk, after all she just eat boring and plain food, cooked vegetables, hey and oats and tea, she doubted the little creature would be excited to o hear it.
Her negative thoughts made her sigh and look down feeling lonely. " What do you like to eat Fluttershy? ". But not long did a sudden question put her out of it immediately.
" Huh? ". She looked up to find Tsunomon next to her, he was standing there, waiting for her answer with anticipation similar to that of a little colts eager to listen a fairytale.
" What kind of food do you like? Do you like sweets, do you like fast food? How about cake, I like cake! Strawberry is my favorite! ".
" I, I like cake too, but I, I normally don't eat too many sweets, I prefer healthier meals ". Fluttershy said expecting disappointment in her new friend but he didn't look bothered by it.
" Oh! So you like fruits and veggies? I like them too, I didn't like them before but Matt showed me how to make them taste good and then I end up liking them a lot! ".
" Matt? Is that another friend of yours that is missing? ". Fluttershy asked smiling.
" Yes! No, I mean, Matt was, Matt was my... He's not missing but, but I, we won't meet, ever, I-ugh ". Fluttershy saw in slow motion how his cheerful expression morphed into another tear-jerking moment.
" I, I am sorry Tsunomon, I didn't meant to remind you of something awful, it wasn't in purpo-wait! ". Before she could finish apologize Tsunomon jumped away, crying and bouncing his way into the bushes of the dangerous forest. " Pinkie! We have to find him! ".
" Already on it! ".Pinkie went into action right away, jumping into the same bushes Tsunomon did, Fluttershy followed soon after but her wings got her tangled and by the time she managed to cross the green obstruction no sign of either pony or Digimon could be found.
" Pi-Pinkie? Tsunomon? Guys? Hello? ". Her voice achoed through the trees and thick bushes of the forest but her only answer was the sounds of unknown things creeping along the shadows of the dangerous area, now more alone that before and with only her erratic breathing as companion she went into full panic. " Ca-calm down-n Fluttershy, you, you aren't a filly a-anymore, you, you helped defeat Nightmare Moon, this is no-nothing! ".
Her little monologue helped and she relaxed a little bit, but the snapping sound of a branch behind her made her jump high enough to break through the canopy of trees and fly away.
" Uh? That's weird, I thought I heard Fluttershy around here? ". Said Pinkie as she stepped where her yellow friend was just a few seconds ago.
" Maybe she's angry at me for running away again ". Said Tsunomon from the back of the earth mare.
" Fluttershy? Naaaah! She's one of the more forgiving ponies I know, believe me, but she's a bit of a scary cat so we better hurry and find her before her mane turns white ". Pinkie said as she started the search.
" All right! I can use my bubbles if we find any difficulty ".
" Little guy? I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship! ". Pinkie said to his companion.
NEAR THE RIVER OF THE EVERFREE...
The Digimon cat could not believe her rotten luck, just as she captured a few fishes to had her fill, out of the river jumped a huge reptile with the intention of turning her into its own lunch, of course she wouldn't allow that, but the fact that she was now starving and low on stamina didn't help much.
Her normal attacks weren't able to pierce the thick scales of the reptile, only annoying it. " Stay back you filthy creature, you think the great BlackGatomon will be done by you? Never! ". BlackGatomon jumped back and then measured the most optimal distance for her next attack, she prepared her right claw, charging it with energy despite the protest of her stomach, when the reptile like creature tried to eat her with its huge jaws she launched her attack.
" LIGHTING PAW!".
The claw attack landed right on the muzzle of the reptile, a sizzling noise indicating that the maneuver worked as intended. " Ha! Take that you over grown igua-nyaaaaah! ". Her celebration was short lived as the creature trashes the Digimon with its tail.
The river creature roared and growled in pain but didn't pursue the cat Digimon as it considered a bad trade to risk further injury for the small snack she could become. With a snort of annoyance the reptile returned to the water, leaving BkackGatomon behind.
" That, that's should teach, you, ugh, I, I'm empty ". The feline slumped to the ground, her breathing reflecting her exhaustion. The fatigue should settle down now that her body was resting but it seemed that she surpassed some kind of limit she shouldn't have for the next instance her body began to glow.
" Curses! ". Her body continued to glow until a transformation occured, it was fast but when the light faded the result was in plain sight, her body was now a cream white color and her size reduced for a few inches, more apparent was her new look, in her previous form at least she looked intimidating and mischievous thanks to her cat appearance, but now she looked like some kind of puppy, one that wouldn't even inspire danger no matter how hard she tried.
" Great! Now what else could go wrong? ".
Her answer came in the form of a yellow pony with pink mane walking out of the dark part of the forest. " Hello? Pinkie? Are you here? ". The pegasus with asked with fear in her voice, fear which disappeared the moment she saw the puppy like Digimon on the ground.
" Are you ok? ". The now Rookie Digimon could only curse her luck before passing out.
After flying away from Pinkie and Tsunomon, Fluttershy got lost in the middle of the forest, it wasn't long before she heard the scary noises of the Everfree grow malicious around her before hearing a thunderous sound nearby followed by the cry of a small creature. Immediately, Fluttershy switched from her scary cat to her fearless personality and ran to see what was going on.
" He-hello? ". Fluttershy called softly as she broke out from the dense forest into a lakeshore, there she found a small puppy-like critter, white cream colored fur and wide ears. The puppy was down on the shore and it seemed to be injured.
" Can you hear me? Are you ok little one? ". Fluttershy asked her while she inspected th surroundings.
" Wha-ugh, who..! Aaah! ". When she saw her, the puppy jumped back, or tried at least, in her current condition all she managed was trip and fall once more.
" Geh! Trying to, trying to finish me off, are you?! ". The puppy growled. " Fine! Give me your worst! ". She got up in all four in defiance, only to fall once more.
" Don't move! You're injured, you could break something! ".
" Wha-Hey! ". The Digimon expected that the yellow pony would make use of her weak shape and tramp her down with her hooves or slice her to pieces with her sharp wings, or bite her to dead or something, but instead of any of that, the yellow pony pulled out bandages and some herbal smelling liquid from her saddle bag that she applied into the wounds, the liquid felt refreshing and the pain diminished considerably, a few minutes later, the Rookie Digimon was standing up again.
' What's with this pony? She could have trapped me or killed me but she didn't! She cured me instead, could it be that..? '.
" Hey! ". The puppy called.
" Ye-yes? Are you still hurting? Do you need more medicine? If so I have more ". Fluttershy responded.
" Tha-no, no, you... Are you not from around here? ".
" Oh, I'm afraid not, I'm from Ponyville ".
That confirmed what the mischievous Digimon was thinking, that this pony wasn't from the same town she has been harassing so she didn't know her, but it could also be that now that she transformed back to her Rookie form she couldn't recognize her, whatever the case was, Salamon was already thinking in how she could dispose of her without fighting, that plan was ruined the moment her belly made an unholy roar.
" Aaaah! I forgot! ". Salamon dropped down again, she was healing up but her stamina tank was still empty and even if she reverted back to a simpler form her appetite was still the same size.
" Oh my, sounds like you're quite hungry ".
" Grrrrh! If it wasn't for that stupid reptile! ". Salamon growled in anger, but that only exasperated her condition even more.
" If you like, I could share my food with you little one ". Salamon turned to the pegasus, she moved away from the shore and placed her bag under the shadow of the closest tree, she then returned to where Salamon was and pulled her up with her front legs while flying her next to the bag.
" Hey! Let me go! ". Salamon was dropped softly under the same shade.
" Here, help yourself to whatever you want ". The yellow pony opened her bag and pulled out a few things, the more important one for Salamon, food. Fruits, vegetables and a few other things that the Digimon never saw in her life before but it smelled delicious, so much so that she started drooling immediately, much to her own embarrassment.
Despite her growling stomach, Salamon didn't move for the food right away, she considered the possibility of this been a trap to drug her or poison her and torture her while she slowly died, or at least that what she would do if the roles were inverted. " Don't you like th food? ". The pegasus asked.
Salamon looked her with suspicious, trying to o look as intimidating as possible, but the incessant growling of her midsection did this an impossible task. " I probably should put it back then ".
" Noooo! ". Salamon dive bombed to grab as much food as she could, when her little pass were full she moved away with her loot and started digging into it, all the while keeping the pony in her sight in case she tried to retrieve her food, but she didn't, instead of that the pegasus was smiling happily.
' What's up with this dump horse? Is she really ok with me stealing her food or is she just too naive? '. Salamon asked internally as she kept on biting her hunger away, the attitude of the pony was throwing her off for a loop for she knew she hasn't done anything to deserve it and in accordance with her Lord Piedmon, rewards were only for the obedient and for the strong, the weak only would receive pain and suffering.
This ideology was what made possible for her to evolve as far as she did before been stroke down by the blonde winged wench and her human runt, after that, she was forced to begin her journey to gather strength once more and take revenge for her defeat and that of her master Piedmon, it took her many years and many tries, many times she was crushed down again by other wild Digimon that ran rampant now that the power structure of the Dark masters was gone, but she never gave up, never stopped, one day she would reach her Ultimate level once more, or even surpass it, that was, until she was dragged off from her world into this strange one habited by those weird horses.
And so, the once feared and powerful LadyDevimon was now reduced to this insignificant form once more, having to scavenge for food like the weak creature she didn't want to become. That was the way of life she knew, the only way she knew, so it baffled her why would anyone provide something with such expression from of happiness.
" It tastes good, right? Have as much as you want ". The pony said to her with that smile that only irked the Digimon even more, the food suddenly didn't tasted as good watching her stupid face but her mouth wouldn't stop chewing. Then, an idea came to her mind, if this pony wasn't trying to trick her then maybe she expected to gain a favor from her, that could be it!
" Tsk, Whatever! Tell me what you want in exchange for this food, I'm not one to show mercy but you turned out to be useful, so ask away, but it will be only one favor and no more ". Salamon said as she wiped her mouth from crumbs.
" A favor? Oh! No no no! I don't want anything in exchange, the food is free, no need to pay, I just love to help little creatures ".
" Bah! Don't lie bird pony! You want something in exchange for that, I'm sure, so do it, ask! I may look like this but I'm as ferocious as no other creature here, ask and I shall destroy what you want! ".
" De-destroy?! I don't want anything or anypony destroyed! If anything I just want to find my friends ". Fluttershy chied out in fear after hearing what the puppy was offering, she couldn't believe that such a cute little thing would talk about destruction and whatnots. Fortunately, her last request seemed to steer the conversation away from the morbid theme.
" Find your... friends? Guh! What's with everyone in this world! Why is everyone so weak-minded! Gaaaaah! ". Salamon growled. " Fine! The faster we find them the faster I'll be out of your debt. Now tell me, which way did you lose those... ' friends ' of yours? ".
" I, I don't, I mean..! ". Fluttershy wanted to keep talking about what the puppy was referring to but meeting back with Pinkie and Tsunomon and make it to the village was the priority. " Fine, umh, let's see, I think I came from... that side! Yes! That's the direction I came from! ". Fluttershy pointed with her hoof in the direction from where she landed.
" That so? Then let's not waste my precious time, let's go ". With no fear whatsoever, the cream puppy started walking in front of the pony, Fluttershy was both worried for her new friend but also baffled that such small creature was this brave, it also made her self-conscious of her own cowardly nature.
' Why can't I be as brave as my this young animal, or like Tsunomon, or like Pinkie? Why must I always be a scary cat? Ugh, who am I kidding, even a little kitty would be braver than me! '.
Fluttershy sunk deeper into depression as her new friend critter marched ahead of her, she put more attention into the way Salamon marched unfazed by the hidden dangers that the Everfree forest was capable of production. Surely, years of exposure to this dangerous environment has turned this cute puppy into a brave creature despite it's cute look.
The puppy seemed to be in very foul mood, it reminded her of Angel Bunny whenever the white rabbit didn't had his filling of carrots, or when he needed a bath, or when he didn't wanted to be waken up, or when... basically the whole time of his life, but still cute, she was like that.
As they walked through the foliage of the forest with only a bit of light that penetrated the canopies, Fluttershy became more scared. Every little noise spooks her, far howls, nearby growls, even some hissing coming from the trees alarmed her, the puppy only stopped and carefully peered around until the sound would disappear and then they continued.
It was after a good portion of walking that Fluttershy realized she hasn't introduced herself, so she quickly tried to rectify her mistake. " My name is Fluttershy, what's yours? ".
" Hm, weird name ". The Digimon said in short, not answering the question.
" S-so? ".
" Hm, what?! ". Asked the Digimon with annoyance.
" Y-your name, how do I call you? ". The pony insisted.
" Why do you care? Not like we're gonna meet again, besides, I didn't asked for your name to begin with so I don't need to know it ".
" I-I see, sorry ". The yellow pony started to sob for the kindless treatment, as they continued walking, her sobbing just increased and Salamon had troubles detecting nearby dangers thanks to that, but more problematic was that she was losing her mind.
" Fine! If I tell you my name would you shut up?! ". Despite her menacing tone the pegasus wasn't scared, instead, she did a 180 in mood waited happily the know the name of the puppy. " Carve my name pretty well into your tiny mind bird horse for is the name of the one and only disciple of Lord Piedmon! My name is Sala-! ".
" FLUTERSHYYYYY! WHERE ARE YOUUU! ". Before the Digimon finish her introduction, the booming voice of Pinkie Pie broke through the air.
" Ah! Is my friend! We must be close now! ". The yellow pony exclaimed in joy and rushed to hug the cream puppy despite her immediate protests.
" Good for you, now get off me you bird brain! Go and hug your so call ' friend ' ! ". Salamon pushed Fluttershy away and looked indignantly at her but the pegasus didn't mind it.
" Sorry, but I'm glad we found my friends and it was all thanks to you Sala, so thank you ".
" Tsk, I told you already, that s was just to repay you for the food and nothing else, now go and begone from my sight. I have things to do ". Salamon started to walk away when the pony called her.
" Wait! Don't you want to come with us? Maybe leave them s place? ".
" Not interested, now go before I change my mind about you! ".
" Wait! ". Salamon turned, ready to strike at the pony for keep being a pest but an object thrown at her feet distracted her. " Here, is not a lot but I want you to take this food, as thanks for helping me ".
Salamon watched the bag with surprise, uncertain of what to do, her instinct as a follower of Lord Piedmon was telling her to take the bag and demand more, but for some reason she couldn't comprehend she didn't. " Take it, I'm serious, and thanks again for your help Sala ".
" FLUTERSHYYYYY! ". The yell was heard again, closer this time. The other party was following the same path but in opposite direction, which mean that they would be meeting soon and Salamon didn't like it. Having more ponies run into her increased the chance of been recognize as the attacker of the nearby village and in her weaker form she could only fight a few of those ponies at a time, too many of them would overpower.
Before this scenario could become true, Salamon snatched the saddle bag the yellow pony so foolishly offered, making use of her full energy and maybe some panic as incentive, Salamon rushed dead ahead without caring for dangerous animals or obstacles in the terrain, she only wanted to be away from the yellow pony and the nauseous feelings she was causing to arise in the Digimon.
She didn't stop until she found a reclusive spot near some big rocks that formed a small shelter, There Salamon dived with her price still safely clutched in her mouth. Even though the yellow pony didn't seemed to be chasing her, she didn't dare move until her heart stopped thundering like crazy.
" OVER HERE PINKIE! ". Fluttershy called out, it didn't took long before the pink form of the earth pony was visible as she bounced her way towards her with a familiar orange horned furball on her back.
" Fluttershy! ". Pinkie crossed th distance in a blink and tackled her winged friend down to the ground in happiness as the two reunited once more. " Oh! I'm glad we found you, it wasn't long but we were worried for you ".
" It, it's ok Punkie, I'm here, you found me, you found me ". Fluttershy assured her friend as she tried to untangle them. After succeeding, she heard another voice to her left.
" I'm sorry for leaving you behind Miss Fluttershy, we didn't mean to abandoning you ". Tsunomon explained with teary eyes that quickly melted the pegasus's heart.
" Is ok Tsunomon, it was me who ran away scared, I'm not valiant at all, not even a little, I wish I was like you and Pinkie, or like Sala ".
" Sala? ". Tsunomon asked.
" Oh yes! I forgot to introduce her, she's right he-uh?! ". Fluttershy found the spot she pointed at empty of puppies, or anything for that matter. She froze in confusion at the absence of the grumpy pup but Pinkie took this with her own comic way of doing things.
" Heloooo Fluttershy's friend!, My name is Pinkamina Diane Pie but my amigos just call me Pinkie, how are you doing? ". Pinkie approached the empty spot and put her right arm over the imaginary shoulder of the imaginary friend.
" I don't see anything ". Tsunomon said.
Pinkie stretched her neck impossibly long to reach the little Digimon and whisper. " Don't say that, or she'll feel dejected for calling her out on her imaginary buddy.
" Guys, I can hear you, and I'm not making it up, there was a white talking puppy with the me before you appeared, and I think she took my saddle bag with her. I found her near where I landed and she was pretty hungry, I offer her my food and I think she took it at the end and ran away ".
Pinkie adopted a thinking posture. " Imaginary hunger IS a very terrible problem, is almost impossible to fill your belly with food when your belly has no imaginary bottom ".
" Shouldn't we find her? If she's alone in the forest she may be in danger then ".
Fluttershy patted Tsunomon on the head gently as thanks for worrying and for not keeping with the ' imaginary ' stuff. " Thanks, but I think she doesn't want anypony to bother her for now, besides, we still have a mission on our hooves, there's a village that needs our help stopping this black cat ". Fluttershy said decisively.
" Are you sure? I know how much you love critters ". Pinkie asked.
" Thanks Pinkie, but I have this feeling that it won't be the last time we meet ".
Fluttershy rolled her eyes and trotted ahead, feeling a tad more cheerful, she then noticed Tsunomon bouncing near her and she extended her wing for him to climb up, and after he did she continued forward until Pinkie caught up.
" What took you Pinkie? ".
" Just leaving an imaginary sing for your friend explaining where we were going, just in case ".
The pegasus sighed in annoyance.
SOMEWHERE IN THE EVERFREE FOREST...
Confusion, sadness, anger, fear. As the ponies of the village tried to salvage what was left of th food as well as to think how could they solve this terrible situation, their anguish flew through the air like a rich fragrance that excited the evil and the weaked to rise and prowl towards the origen of the smell, and while certain cream colored Digimon got a sniff of it, the effects of her actions stirred something completely different and far more dangerous, something out of this world, just like the Digimon herself.
From a small watering hole that dried up long ago a new liquid manifested. Thick, black and alive. It oozed up and around like tart, but soon started to move in a twisted way that made it look like possessed. Then violently, the tart shut upward and away, it fell to the ground like a formless mass of blackness, it continued to move and expand, taking form little by little until the black residue give way to white boneplates and limbs, tail and head, and finally, eyes, as red as blood. Now complete, the new creature rose on its legs and moved its tail around to feel the surroundings, the jaws opened and closed to test its strength, when the creature was well aware of its own body, it released a powerful feline roar that muted anything else nearby. The Grimm was now in the Everfree.
