Prologue: A New Arrival to Equestria. [Edited]

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It was a delightfully bright and sunny day over the town of Ponyville, like the day before and the day before that, and the day last week. But aside from the normal weather and the normality of the towns day to day life style for the towns ponies, there was something that has changed from the towns normality, and it was that there were two individuals out in the nearby yet rarely used rock quarry. And those two individuals were the towns resident fashionista named Rarity, and a dragonling named Spike who was an assistant to the towns librarian.

The reason for the two being out in the quarry today was because Rarity has had an very important pony drop by, and said pony was none other than the pony of pop herself, Sapphire Shores! When the pony of pop dropped by Rarity’s shop she had requested that the fashionista make costumes for her latest tour, which of course made the fashion designer literally drop to the floor in both shock, and from simply being overwhelmed by the prospect of making outfits for the famous singer. Also the fact that the earth pony actually knows her work made Rarity’s heart flutter with pride. So that’s why today Rarity was out in the quarry, searching for gems that she’ll use to decorate the outfits she plans to make, however searching for the gems was only part of the task, the other part was harvesting the gems from their underground deposits. And that’s why she’s asked for Spike’s assistance to help her collect the gems that she locates, though the little dragon needed little persuasion to help the unicorn. And this is where we find the pair currently, trotting and waddling about the quarry searching for pockets of gems while making idle conversation.

“Oh my gosh I still can’t believe it! Sapphire Shores, THE pony of pop!” Spike gushed as he waddles behind Rarity, who has her head low to the ground while her horn was glowing with magic as she uses her gem finding spell.

“She is AWESOME! I mean she’s gorgeous, and talented and…” Rarity ceased her gem finding to glance over her withers and gave Spike a questioning look, which caused the little dragon to stutter on his words. “Uh I mean…she’s not even as half the pony you are! I mean, you’re ten times more gorgeous and talented—”

“Spike, while I do appreciate the compliments, a lady is never jealous of others.” Rarity commented as she goes back to try locating some gems while brushing off Spike usual banter of flattery.

“Of course.” Spike ultimately agrees before switching the subject. “But weren’t you totally flipping out or what?!” a chortle escaped Rarity as she heard Spike’s question.

“While I wouldn’t quite phrase it like that, I must admit, I was quite in awe.” Rarity cheered before her horn started tugging her around the section of the quarry the pair was in, while the light around said appendage grew in brightness.

“But I need to find more jewels than ever before in order to decorate the costumes she’s commissioned me to make for her tour.” Rarity continued as she stumbled around for a bit as her horn continues to tug her around the quarry, before stopping and marking a spot on the ground with a glowing blue X mark.

“Did you find some?” Spike asked as he darts over to the white coated mare.

“Yes, right there, Spike!” the white unicorn said as she pointed to the marker she made. With proficient digging speed via his claws, Spike was able to dig up the small pile of gems in no time, although once they were uncovered the little dragon was greatly tempted to eat them all.

“Now remember Spike, I promised that you can snack on some while we search. But I need a lot in order to complete this order.”

“Right.” Spike bemoaned as he deposited the gems into the wagon he brought to the quarry, while Rarity’s horn once again started to tug her around in search of more gems.

For the next hour or so Rarity continued to trot about the quarry, guided by her glowing horn and marking the spots with a blue X. And for every spot she finds and marked, Spike dug up each pile with a different method from either using his claws, or by using his tail as a shovel, or even using it like a jackhammer. Pretty impressive for a stubby little reptile. However each new pile or cluster of gems that the dragonling excavated he was tested to not just out right scarf them all down, but either by Rarity’s slight disapproving glance, or his ‘crush’ on the mare the dragonling brushed his temptation aside and placed each dugged up cluster of gems into the ever growing pile. At the end of the hour the duo has collected a hefty amount of gems, a pile that was nearly as big as Spike himself when standing fully straight, and Rarity was tickled pink with joy that they were able to collect enough gems. While also being proud of her little helpers diligence.

“You’ve been very patient today, Spike.” Rarity praised as she gently patted the little dragons head.

“And for that, and your hard work, you deserve the finest of rewards.” Rarity then levitated a nice big sapphire gem from the pile, and floated it over to Spike.

“This is from me to you.” Spike was about to swallow the gem whole, but stopped after hearing the last few words that Rarity just said. Taking the gem in his claws he looked over to the white mare, her body being surround by a veil of pink light dancing and glimmering in the dragons eyes.

“Is something wrong Spike?” Rarity asked as she looked at the little dragons, stunned, expression.

“No.” Spike mused as he held the gem close. “It’s, perfect.” Rarity then gave a small smile to the dragon, but was then interrupted when her horn sparked with magic, and started to tug her along again.

“Oooh! Bring the cart, Spike. I think we got a big pile just up ahead.” As the white mare trotted off while her head was being pulled by the magic, Spike looked at the gem in his claws as a blushing smile came over him.

“For me, from Rarity!” Spike then placed the gem at the front most spot of the cart, and pulled along as he tried to catch up to Rarity. But as the pair continued on with their work, something else was going on in the quarry, something that neither dragon, nor mare would have ever expected.

The pair continued to work throughout the early to mid-evening, gathering more and more gems as they continued on with their gem hunting. From rubies, to emeralds, topazes, and various other types of gems in-between, the duo were able to uncover many valuable gems for Rarity to work with. Finally as the sun was at its utmost zenith, the day would start to take a rather excited turn, whether it was for the best or worst, who can say.

“Spike? Where are you?” Rarity called out as she couldn’t see her little helper around her for a brief moment, before spotting him coming around the bend.

“You know, it’s terrible to keep a lady waiting.” The mare joked as the dragon approached her.

“Coming!” Spike called out as he skidded to a stop a few feet behind Rarity, whose horn lit up again and found another gem pile. Once the mare has marked the next spot Spike immediately started to dig, and it seemed that this cluster was deeper than the other previous ones, but Spike was making quick work at digging his way towards them.

“You know, I think we’re really going to strike gold this time. So to speak.” Rarity giggled as she watched clomps of dirt being tossed up, before seeing Spike pop out of the hole and shouted…

“JACKPOT! Just look at this haul!” Spike announced as he held quite a sizable pile of gems in his claws, before climbing out of the hole and making his way to the wagon.

“That’s certainly a great catch, and I think that’s all we can do for today Spike.” Rarity said as Spike dumps the jewels onto the wagon’s already large pile, which looked like it was going to tip over if the pair wasn’t careful in moving it.

“And these will certainly get me well on my way with making Sapphire’s outfits. So why don’t we start—” Rarity was interrupted by her horn again, although this time instead of glowing lightly, the mare’s horn flared with magic!

“Rarity, what’s going on with your horn?” Spike asked in confusion as he looked at the flaring protrusion while a befuddled look adorned Rarity’s face.

“There must be another jewel nearby and by my horn’s reaction to it, it’s one of high quality!” Rarity said astonishingly as she then followed the pull of her horn, guiding her to a grove of trees not too far from where she, and Spike were currently at. But instead of having her head low to the ground, the mare’s horn was tugging, upwards?

“Well that’s strange. It’s coming up from the trees?” Rarity said with her own confusion as her horn continues to lead her to one of the trees, where she spotted what her magic spell was leading her towards. Amongst the leaves of the tree was an impressive jasper gem, shimmering with a wonderful luster as it sparkled in the sunlight. But before the mare could really admire the gem she got quite the surprise, when the head of a large canine popped out of the treetop!

“Uh, good day gentle…fellow. I am Rarity, and this is my friend Spike.” Rarity nervously giggled, followed up by Spike with an additional wave, as she backs away from the tree, where the canine leapt down from.

“And you are?” the mare inquired as the canine stood up on its hind legs, fore limps hung up and slightly outstretched as it spoke.

“A diamond dog.” The bipedal canine replied with a rather gravely voice as he approached Rarity and Spike, who started to back away from the canine.

“Ah I see! Well that explains your fine taste in jewelry, I mean, I-I-I know that diamonds are a mare’s best friend.” Rarity chortled ever more nervously as she, and Spike, started to back away from the diamond dog as he continued to approach the pair.

“And now I know there also a dog’s best friend, so that’s why your also hunting gems out here, as well?”

“Yes. We hunt.” The bipedal dog said as he wiggles his paws digits, as if readying to use them. But his comment seemed to catch Rarity off as she quirked a brow.

“Did you say, we?”

“Yes.” The diamond dog says as he continued to march towards the pair.

“We hunt for gems. But you are a better gem hunter, so now we hunt…” the pair were unaware of the two dirt mounds slowly building up behind them, as they were to focused on the diamond dog before them. “For YOU!” Two other diamond dogs leapt out of the dirt mounds, scaring both Rarity and Spike, causing the pair to run off.

“Get the pony!”

The three canines chased after the pair, with the largest of the trio reaching them first, and attempted to swat the two with his large paw. Luckily, Rarity was able to dodge in time, while Spike didn’t have to as he was short enough for the paw to sail right above him. The other two diamond dogs also made an attempt to catch Rarity, and while she may not be as physically adepts as other ponies, she was able to bob and weave around the dogs attempts to catch her. As for Spike he was doing what he could to help his friend, slash crush, by trying to trip up the dogs or use his tail to try and injury them, but the dogs proved to be more than what the little dragon was able to handle. Heck, the largest of the canines managed to stick Spike into a tree, by sticking his head spikes into one of the trees branches.

Soon enough the diamond dogs managed to corner Rarity by a rocky ledge, blocking all of her escape routes as they closed in. If she was a more gifted unicorn, Rarity could’ve either blasted the dogs out of her way, or use a teleportation spell to get away, however her talent with magic was below average so she wasn’t capable of doing either. However the mare and dogs were about to get a big surprise. Just as the dogs were about to capture Rarity, all three of them, as well as the unicorn’s ears perked up as they all heard something coming towards them, then from above all heard something leapt off the ledge. Then before any of the dogs could do anything, all three diamond dogs were all knocked away by a flash of blue and red, and Rarity was able to see who her savior was, and it was a sight to behold.

The being before her was tall, roughly around 5’5ft tall or perhaps even 6’ft, whose body was a sky blue coloration with armor bits colored red with fiery patterns marking them, the figure also had three black belts strapped around each of its biceps and thighs. And when the figure looked over its shoulder, Rarity could see a pair of shimmering red eyes looking down at her from the red helmet it was wearing, with its bladed horn glimmering in the sunlight.

“Are you alright little one?” the creature asked with a voice that was strong sounding, but also had a soothing air to it, which made the little mare blush as she looked up to the tall figure.

“Y-yes I am, thank you sir for coming to my rescue.” Rarity graciously said as she held a hoof to her face, trying to hide her blush. The pair then looked to where the dogs were knocked back to as they started to recover.

“I’d advise you leave this lady alone, otherwise you will have to deal with me.” the newcomer said as he got into a battle ready stance.

“Out of the way dragon. All we want is the pony.” The smallest of the three dogs said as he took a step closer to the pair, followed by the other two who were ready to pounce. But the figure remained in his battle ready stance as they approached.

“Don’t say I didn’t give you fair warning.”

The three diamond dogs then lunged at the blue skinned creature, claws and fangs bared as they readied for a fight. Which made Rarity feel a pit form in her stomach as she dreaded for the fight to begin. But the newcomer didn’t even seem to be threated, or the least bit intimidated by the canines, and just effortlessly kicked each of the diamond dogs in the face and sending them flying back a few feet. And this song and dance repeated itself for a few minutes with the diamond dogs recovering and again attacking the creature from various directions, and the stranger would effortlessly repel them with simple punches or kicks. Even if the diamond dogs tried to attack from underground, the stranger was able to counter them and continued to knock them back. Several minutes of this repeated attack and repel goes by, and soon enough all three diamond dogs were quite bruised and battered, while the stranger remained steadfast and unharmed.

“I’ll say this again. Leave the lady alone, and you will be allowed to leave unharmed.” The strange creature says in a more threating manner, while sparks of fire waft from his armor pieces.

Looking away from the armored creature, Rarity saw that the dogs all looked at each other with concern and worried looks before deciding to leave, with them digging into the ground and sealing up the holes with clumps of dirt. Once the dogs had left, the stranger visibly relaxed as he turned to face Rarity in full, allowing the mare to see him fully, and seeing just how well-built he was. Seeing his toned and sculpted body alongside his impressive looking armor, which was an astonishing sight for the unicorn to behold as he approached her.

“Are you alright miss? You weren’t hurt in any way were you?” the creature asked as he knelt down before the mare who just shook her head as she stood up fully, dusting herself off.

“No, I’m fine.” That’s when Rarity remembered something as she was in the midst of dusting herself of. “Spike!” the unicorn half-shouted in worry as she gallops off past the creature, and headed over to where her little friend was left stuck in the tree.

“Spike, darling, are you alright?” Rarity asked her little friend as she skidded to a stop in front of the tree, which the dragon tried to nod but couldn’t as he was still stuck in the tree branch. But with a little bit of effort he was unlogged with Rarity’s magic.

“Thanks Rarity it was really getting uncomfortable being stuck in the tree.” Spike said as he then stretched his neck as it was starting to get sore, but once he was done, he looked over to tall creature walking towards the both of them.

“Thanks for saving us, um, you…got a name?” Spike asked the creature as he gives a small smile and a nod of his head.

“My name is Flamedramon.” the creature says as he looks down to the pair as they looked up at him while the light of the sun glistened off his fiery red armor. “The Fire of Courage.”

Chapter 1: the Journey of Flamedramon Begins [Edited]

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The digital world, a truly outstanding world where creatures called Digimon reside, all of whom come in varying sizes, appearances, and power scaling. And in this world of magnificent creatures, there are some Digimon that live in towns or out in the wilds living nice peaceful lives, while there are other Digimon that live in isolation, either because they despise the company of others, or because they prefer the peace and quiet that their solitude grants them. But then there are those that have wicked and malicious intentions, where they enslave other Digimon so that they can rule over them, or those that conquer the world itself to hold untold power in the palm of their hands. But these wicked and foul Digimon are always met with opposition, either by Digimon that fight them as heroes, or as partners to brave humans that work together with the good-aligned Digimon to stop these evil beings.

And this story follows one such Digimon who fights for not only the good and safety of the digital world, and its inhabitants, but all worlds that he would visit if he could. Currently in the digital world numerous factions comprised of dark and evil Digimon are trying to expand their territories, trying to expand their forces and influence to ensure that they are the sole dominating force of the world. And while these dark factions fight each other, or forces of good Digimon that try to stop them, many towns, villages, and cities have been caught in the crossfire of these conflicts. Which forced the Digimon living there to either join the fighting, flee from the battle, or end up being reduced to mere fractal codes.

Far off in the northern territories of the digital world, there was a town situated amongst the jagged cliffs and hills of the land, which was filled with Palmon, Floramon, and a few Blossomon, with an old Cherrymon acting as their leader. For a time the village lived peacefully, growing crops to feed themselves and staying out of the conflicts between the warring factions, using the cliffs and hills as natural defensive walls to secure themselves behind. But unfortunately today the towns inhabitants peace and tranquility was disrupted. The town was now a battlefield, with the inhabitants trying as hard as they could to fended off an invading force of Vegiemon, RedVegimon and Zassoumon that have invaded their home. All of these wild and violent plant Digimon were being led by a Zamielmon, who was acting as their commander, and could be seen from a tall hill watching everything occurring within the village. The two forces of plant-type Digimon have been in a state of deadlock for beginning of the invasion, as the invading force weren’t able to push too far into the town they sought to take over, but the towns inhabited didn’t have the strength to fully repel the enemy forces for long. Soon enough the residence of the town lost their ground and were being pushed back further and further into their village, while Zamielmon’s forces claimed more and more ground.

“Poison Ivy!” a group of Palmon shouted as their purple thorny tendrils extended outward towards a trio of Vegiemon that were hopping down an alleyway.

“Sharp Leaf!” the trio of Vegiemon proclaimed as each one throws three sharp red leaves from their backs. The leaves collided with the tendrils, cutting, and slicing them almost with little effort, forcing the Palmon to withdrawal them and continue to try and run away from the perusing enemy Digimon.

“Now get them!” the center Vegiemon shouted as they all hopped towards the Palmon who cowered in fear as they came to a dead end. As the Vegiemon approached the Palmon they could only huddle together and cowered as the invaders closed in.

“Thorn Whip!” But then before Vegiemon reached the Palmon they all looked to their left, and saw several large thorn covered vines with hungry looking flowers on their ends coming towards them, and knocking the Vegiemon into a wall on the other side of the lane. The Palmon looked to see the vines retreat and found a Blossomon coming towards them.

“Are you guys alright?” the large flower monster asked the smaller Digimon as it approached to the frighten trio.

“Yeah.” One of the Palmon said as she, and the others rushed to the larger Digimon’s side. “If you didn’t come when you did those Vegiemon would’ve gotten us.”

“Don’t get to comfortable now ya hear.” The group turned to look down the lane when a new voice announced itself, and what they saw was a pair of large RedVegiemon standing tall on their beefy red vines. Blossomon then put himself between the three Palmon who cowered behind the large flower as the RedVegiemon glared at them.

“Ya’ll better surrender this town to us, or we’re going to have to make things ugly.” The RedVegiemon on the right said as he, and his fellow RedVegiemon smirked at the group.

“Thorn Whip!” Blossomon shouted in response as he launched his attack at the invading Digimon.

“Have it your way then.” The sour plant monster on the left said before raising one of his arms, along with the other doing the same before they both shouted.

“Chili Pepper Pummel!” Both RedVegiemon’s sent out their long beefy vines out, clashing with Blossomon’s own vines. The thorny vines of the Ultimate continued to lash out against the sour plant’s own tendrils, all elongated limps snapping, and cracking against one another like whips.

Near the center of the town crowds of Palmon & Floramon were running in terror, while squads of Vegiemon and Zassoumon chased after them, and managing to either hurt some while also reducing others into fractal codes and absorbing them. Luckily though most of the Palmon and Floramon were able to get to safety, as Cherrymon was leading his town into the towns great hall and keeping up their defenses, with the help of the other Blossomon of the community as they all acted as the heavy attackers. But the Palmon and Floramon weren’t just going to run and hide, once they were safe within the town hall they all used hit-and-run tactics to disrupt the enemy, and provide support for the main unit lead by Cherrymon. But the onslaught of Vegiemon, Zassoumon, and the few dozen RedVegiemon was starting to become too much for them to try and keep at bay. As the main unit tried to keep the main enemy forces at bay, Cherrymon spotted a group of Vegiemon and Zassoumon lead by a RedVegimon chasing after a group of injured Floramon, as they tried to get back to main force, but their injuries were hampering their movements.

“We got ’cha now!” the Zassoumon said as he leapt at the group of Floramon, followed by his fellow invaders.

“Oh no you don’t!” Cherrymon shouted as he faced towards the group.

“Cherry Blast!” a barrage of small glowing red cherries were launched from Cherrymon’s bushy head, and came soaring through the air towards the group and striking the invaders with small yet powerful multi-explosions, knocking the RedVegimon and its cohorts away, causing a few of the Vegiemon & Zassoumon to turn into pure data, which the Floramon gawked at in astonishment.

“Don’t just stand there, hurry up and get over here!” Cherrymon called out to the injured Digimon, getting the Floramon to re-collect themselves and running towards the town’s central plaza.

But before the Floramon could even reach the plaza, a barrage of red glowing arrows came raining down from the sky down upon them, turning them into fractal codes and destroying them out right! Cherrymon, and the other Blossomon, and the main force of the town watched in horror as their friends were destroyed, but their shock was short lived as it quickly turned to fear, as another barrage of arrows came soaring towards them. Acting quickly the Blossomon used their Thorn Whip moves, alongside with Cherrymon using his Vine Attack move to shieled not only themselves, but the rest of the towns Digimon by swatting away the arrows. Then after a solid minute of arrows being knocked away, the barrage ended and the group of ultimate plant Digimon retracted their limbs, and saw the main force of the invading force come towards the plaza, with Zamielmon slowly making his way to the forefront. Clapping his hands slowly as a cocky smile was plastered on his face.

“Well now, color me impressed.” Zamielmon said as he kept clapping his hands in mock praise for a few more seconds before stopping, and resting his hands on his hips.

“I’m surprised you were able to block my Arrow Lance attack with such skill, very impressive indeed.” Cherrymon then made his way to the front of his main unit and stamped the ground with his staff as he addressed the humanoid Digimon.

“Why are you attacking our town Zamielmon? There’s nothing worthwhile out here, so why don’t take your Vegiemon, and their sub-species and leave us in peace.” Cherrymon said as he stood tall in front of the invading forces, keeping himself between them and the rest of town who were all shouting at the invaders to leave them alone, and to get out of their town. But the archer Digimon didn’t seem to care as he spoke up.

“At first glance this town is not all that special, being out of the way and surrounded by hills and cliff faces. But… with this town being so far out of the way and not on any maps, and having these nice natural defensive walls we can use it as a secret base when we conduct our raids to gather supplies for the Wood Spirit Army. Or launch surprise attacks to the other factions.” Zamielmon chortled as his eyes glowed for an instant as he started to wickedly grin.

“So that’s it! You’re going to use our town to conduct raids and ambushes on other poor unfortunate towns, destroy them and take what rightfully belongs to them!” Zamielmon spread his arms wide as he looked squarely at Cherrymon with a joyful expression.

“Give the Ultimate a prize, he got it in one shot…just like, this.” the demon man Digimon said as he held his left hand out, which caught Cherrymon off guard at what Zamielmon meant, before it was too late!

“Snipe Headshot!” a large red arrow covered in a thin outline of yellow energy erupted out of Zamielmon’s hand at blinding speed, and was already more than half way towards Cherrymon, who was unable to react in time to make a counter attack to block the attack. But before the arrow could reach its intended target, a sudden voiced cried out which caught everyone off guard.

“Fire Rocket!”

A sudden barrage of fireballs came raining down from the sky, striking the arrow and smashing it into the ground and dispersing it as small patches of fire lingered on the ground. Then the barrage of fireballs started to tilt towards Zamielmon and his forces, striking down all of the lower-level plant Digimon, causing them to cry out in panic as most of them were reduced to fractal code, while a small portion of them were only badly injured. As for Zamielmon he was now royally pissed off as his body smoked and had small wisps of fire on it.

“Who did that?!” the ultimate cried out as he looked for the source of the fireballs, only to receive a flaming punch to the face from a nose-diving Digimon.

“Flame Fist!” the townsfolk all watched as Zamielmon was sent flying back, face smoking and burning as they saw him soaring for a few feet before crashing into a building. Looking away from where Zamielmon was sent flying the whole town looked towards where the Ultimate was a moment ago, and they all saw the attacker which caused the townsfolk to look relieved and even cheer.

“Flamedramon is here!” the Palmon and Floramon said unison as they cried out in happiness, as a well-known heroic Digimon came to their aide.

“Flamedramon! How…how did you know we were in trouble.” Cherrymon asked as he made his way over to the Armor Digimon, but was stopped when the hero held out an armored claw.

That’s when he, and the rest of the town saw Zamielmon come bursting out of the building, and started running over to Flamedramon with the large red arrow on his back held like a short spear. Cherrymon and his town then watched as Flamedramon and Zamielmon started duking it out in hand-to-hand combat, and while Zamielmon was technically stronger than the Armor Digimon, Flamedramon appeared to be faster, and far more agile so he was able to dodge the Ultimate’s attacks no sweat. And was matching the Ultimate’s arrow lance attacks with flaming punches and kicks.

“Try this on for size!” Zamielmon growled as he tosses his arrow up into the air, and quickly brought out the iron bow that was strapped to his back. “Bow Cutter!”

“Flame Fist!” Flamedramon countered all of the Ultimate’s attacks with his slashing bow strikes with his flaming armored fists meeting each swung bow strike, causing whisps of fire and sparks to fly as the attacks clashed. As the duel between the two Digimon continued on, the town started to cheer on the hero Digimon to win and beat the dark Digimon.

“Why are you sticking your nose into this Flamedramon?!” Zamielmon shouted as he continued to lash out, unable to push back the Armor Digimon who was starting to land more blows onto him than he was to the smaller Digimon.

“Your just a wandering vagabond with no allegiance to any faction! So why get in my way!” Zamielmon roared as he raised his bow high and readied to land a critical strike onto his armored opponent.

“Because—” Flamedramon said as he knocks the bow out of Zamielmon’s hands, causing the Ultimate to be stunned for the briefest of moments, before the armored Digimon coiling back his right arm that was still ablaze with fire.

“I don’t want to see any more innocents Digimon being destroyed for your selfish conquests!” the Armor Digimon shouted as he then shot his right fist forward, claws outstretched as they and the palm glowed bright hot yellow.

“Express Claw!”

The armored Digimon’s claw slammed squarely into Zamielmon’s chest, where a powerful explosion occurred, punching right through Zamielmon’s chest armor and out his back. Retracting his clawed gauntlet the armor Digimon watched as the Ultimate-level Digimon falls backwards, slumping to the ground as his armor clattered against the cobble stone, all the while the remnants of the invading force just looked upon the sight with awe and terror. They all then looked towards Flamedramon, who just glared back at the remaining Vegiemon, Zassoumon, and RedVegiemon who shrieked in fright as the Digimon raised his left gauntleted claw.

“If you don’t want to end up like your general, go back to wherever it is that you came from, and never show your faces around here again!” the remnants of the invading forced shrieked in terror as they hopped and bounced their way out of the town, while the townsfolk cheered for being saved, while Flamedramon visibly relaxed as he gives off calming exhale.

“Flamedramon. I can’t thank you enough for coming to our aide in our time of need.” Cherrymon said as he and other members of his town walked over to the Armor Digimon who turned to face them

“I’m just glad I was able to make it in time.” The fire Digimon said as he looked at the large tree Digimon. “If I didn’t catch the rumors of an armored force coming here, I’m sure that I wouldn’t made it in time.”

“Well I’m just glad that it’s all over.” Cherrymon lamented as the town and Flamedramon all settled down from the commotion and ordeal that they just went through.

“Not…yet!”

Everyone quickly looked to where Zamielmon laid, seeing his body more than half deteriorated into fractal codes. But his head, the right side of his chest and arm remaining, with his hand outstretched with a black data sphere with pulsating spikes in his palm. Before anyone could do anything, Zamielmon fired the data sphere towards the Flamedramon, which the Armor Digimon tried to deflect by backhanding the sphere away, but the moment that his gauntlet touched the black sphere it began merging with his arm, and quickly started to spread all over his body. Naturally Flamedramon was startled by this and tried to remove the ever expanding blackness from his body, he even resorted to setting himself on fire to see if he could burn the dark sphere’s matter off. But nothing he did worked!

“This little gift was given to me by my master in case of emergency, and I’M MORE THAN HAPPY TO USE IT ON YOU SO THAT YOU ARE BROUGHT DOWN WITH ME!”

Zamielmon then started to manically laugh as the last bits of his body disappeared into fractal code, while Flamedramon’s entire body turned pitch black, with dark purple electricity pulsating around him, while also glitching and warping about. Then with one final cry of what sound like distorted pain, Cherrymon, and the townsfolk watched as Flamedramon was being engulfed by a large pillar of black static, and violet lighting that stretched high into the air. A moment later and everyone watched as pillar collapsed upon itself, disappearing, and showing that the Armor Digimon was no longer there.

~~Present Time – Equestria~~

The town of Ponyville was a nice and peaceful rural town, with ponies that go about their lives, blissfully enjoying their peaceful if mundane lives. But today however, the normality of peace and tranquility that was common for the town was changed to one of excitement and intrigue. Near the center of the town, just a few blocks from the town hall, a large bakery called Sugarcube Corner stood proud and tall amongst its fellow buildings, looking like an oversized dessert platter given the royal treatment. And currently the building was being surround by a rather sizable crowd of ponies, all of whom were trying to look through either the door, or the windows as they tried to get a good look at the creature that Rarity and Spike had brought back to the town. From what the ponies could tell and see, the creature looked like a tall and well-built blue skinned dragon, with red armor that had fiery patterns etched on them. At the moment the creature right now was sitting at a table, eating a few pastries from a large platter while it was finishing up telling Rarity and her circle of friends a story. Which was actually a story on who the creature was, where he came from, and what he thinks happened to him to end up in Equestria.

“—that’s when I came across the quarry and heard the commotion from the other side of a ledge, and that’s where I stumbled upon Rarity and Spike as they were being harassed by those dog creatures. After that they brought me here.” The creature, who introduced himself as Flamedramon, said as he grabs a piece of cherry pie with an un-armored claw and then taking a bite out of the pastry.

For any pony that was able to hear Flamedramon’s story they were all astonished by everything he had just told them, especially with the telling on how he saved other creatures like himself, and even defeated most of the invading enemy forces. And even taking down their commanding officer all on his own, though they were all sad to hear that so many of the other creatures died in the end, which the ponies of Ponyville and Equestria as a whole had never dealt with before. But after hearing such a tale many of the ponies wandered if what Flamedramon told them was real or not, but when they all looked at the Digimon’s body, seeing his muscles and well-toned body it was hard to deny what he had just told them was truth. And it seemed that Rarity and her friends were also captivated by the Digimon tale on his battle, and his strange arrival in their world.

“That’s an incredible tale Flamedramon, and it was very honorable of you to come to those other Digimon’s aide when they were being attacked.” Twilight Sparkle, the towns local librarian, said as she finished writing every bit of detail of everything that the Armor Digimon had just said over the past twenty or so minutes ago.

“Heck yeah it was!” Rainbow agreed loudly as she did a flip in mid-air. “I would’ve loved to see how the whole thing played out, seeing all the action go down.” The pegasus threw a few punches and kicks in midair as she shadow boxed with herself, but when the Digimon finished munching away on his piece of pie he looked up to the pegasus and spoke up.

“My world is not exactly the most peaceful or hospitable environment there is, especially right now with all of the various dark factions acting up.” the Digimon gave the pegasus a very sincere expression with a worn out look in his, as if he was trying to explain how ruthless his world was.

“If all you wanted to do is sight see, then you better be ready to defend your very life.” The ponies at and around the table all gulped in fear after hearing the little warning Flamedramon, and while Rainbow tried to play it cool, she couldn’t stop beads of sweat from rolling down her brow as she could feel the seriousness emanating from Flamedramon’s words.

“Is it really that bad?” Fluttershy asked as she hid a little behind her long pink mane while sitting across from the Digimon, who just nodded his head as he then grabbed a muffin from the platter and just stares at it.

“Yes. Aside from the roaming forces of the dark factions armies, there are also Digimon that simply fight each other to gain more power, and care not for who they hurt or destroy to get what they want.” He then looked at the ponies within and outside of the building as a whole.

“Trust me, you’re better off not going to my world.”

Ponies started to quietly murmur to one another in how they would not like to go to the digital world, or meet any one of these more selfish and brutal Digimon, like the ones that Flamedramon and the peaceful plant Digimon had to fight off. Even Twilight’s circle of friends thought it sounded like a bad idea to go to the Digital world, if it was possible. That’s when Applejack looked up to the Digimon, as he took a bite of the muffin in his hand.

“So Flamedramon, are you gonna try to find a way back to your own world?” the Digimon swallowed the bit of muffin in his mouth and just stared at the remaining amount for a moment before speaking up.

“I would like to return so that I can continue to help wherever I can. But I doubt that it’s possible.”

“Maybe not.” Twilight said as she conjures up another blank scroll, and dipped her quill into the inkwell that was sitting on her side of the table. “If you want Flamedramon I can ask my teacher if she can find a way back to your world.” the Digimon seemed to be in deep thought as he considered the question.

“If it’s not too much trouble, then please.”

Twilight nodded and started to write down a message to her mentor, and once she was done she rolled up the scroll and tied it to everything else that Twilight had just written down. After bundling the letter, alongside with the notes about Flamedramon, Twilight asked Spike who was sitting next to her to send everything to her mentor, and with a quick puff of green fire the bundle turned to smoke and then wafted its way out of the nearest window. During all of this the Digimon seemed to be intrigued by Spike’s little trick.

“Well now that is taken care of, do you want us to show you around town Flamedramon?” Twilight asked the Digimon, where Pinkie Pie swooped in and stood on top of the table with a big smile on her face.

“Great idea Twiliy! OH! And I can play tour guide!” Pinkie then pulled out a hat that has, tour guide on it, and placed it on her head while pulling out a what looks like a map of the town.

“Let’s get a moving ponies, time to show our cross-dimensional new friend the sights!” The Digimon couldn’t help but give a small chortle and a smile as he looked at the pink mare, and her friends.

“I’d like that.” the Digimon and the group then got up from the table, and made their way out of the bakery with the crowd giving them space and greeting Flamedramon in person, and even aiding in the small tour by introducing themselves and their work places whenever the group approached one of their businesses.

Chapter 2: A Day in Ponyville [Edited]

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It was early in the morning in Ponyville, so early that the sun was hardly up in the sky yet and bathing everything in a delightful aura of twilight. But even at this time ponies of the town are up and about, getting their stalls, shops, and business ready for the day’s activities, as well as the group of foals being waken up to get ready to head out for school. Although there was one individual that was up at this hour who wasn’t getting ready for work, except for a good work out. And that individual was Flamedramon.

Outside of the town the Armor Digimon was out in the fields by a sizable lake and a small stand of trees, shadow boxing and mock fighting to keep his hand-to-hand combat skills in top shape, as well as work out any excess fats on his body.

Ever since the Digimon came to the town of ponies yesterday, he’s been the center of attention and has had ponies simply watch him walk by, or simply marvel at him. Which actually made the Digimon feel a bit, bashful. Sure Flamedramon was used to other Digimon looking at him admiration and praise before, but the way that the ponies all marveled at him and recognized that he was from another world, made him literally feel like a fish out of water. It even made him wander if this is how Digimon felt when they manage to go to the Human world. Aside from the stares and admirations of the ponies, the Armor Digimon found the town as a whole quite charming, and the ponies themselves were also very hospitable which reminded Flamedramon of some of the more pleasant and peaceful towns he would visited. In-between his travels across the different regions of the world, and his time spending out in the wilds. It was certainly a serial experience for the Digimon to be sure.

“HIYAH!” Flamedramon grunted as he performed a right aerial spin kick, before quickly comboing into a backwards striking left kick.

After the second kick was made the Digimon landed back onto the ground, taking in small intakes of air as he took another battle ready stance, claws clenching and eyes retaining a level of harden focus. Then with a long calming exhale Flamedramon relaxed and stood normally as he stretches out his body.

“That should do it for today.” The Digimon muttered to himself as he rolled his left shoulders, causing a few pops and creaks to sound out.

“I gotta say you’re really good.” a familiar voice scraggly voice called out, and when Flamedramon looked up to the source he spotted Rainbow Dash’s head poking out from a lone law hanging cloud.

“Do you exercise like this every day?” the pegasus asked as the cloud lowered itself so that it was more eye-level with the Digimon.

“Pretty much. It’s more habit than anything else at this point.” Flamedramon commented as he turned to stare up to the sky, watching the vivid blueish purple sky turn to a pristine clear blue color as the sun continued its climb the horizon.

“Back home if you’re not careful and prepared, you could be caught off guard by a stronger Digimon, and be reduced to fractal code to be absorbed. So all Digimon try to stay in peek physical condition so that they are prepared for anything.”

“Sounds like your world really is hard core, and brutal.” the pegasus said as one of her hindlegs hung off the cloud, and was lazily swinging back and forth along with her tail. the Digimon simply nodded his head as he let out what sounded like a tired sigh of reluctant affirmation.

“It’s simply the way of things.” Flamedramon said before he looked up and gave a small smile to the mare.

“But, not all places, or Digimon are like that.” The Armor Digimon said as he takes in a breath of fresh air as he remembered some of the more pleasant places and Digimon that he had encountered.

“There are plenty of Digimon that try to live normal peaceful lives, and try to make things more peaceful like you ponies from what I’ve seen. But even they need to prepared for the worst if it ever comes down to it.” the Digimon then looked back over to Rainbow Dash but with a now questionable look.

“So, what brings you out here? Were you just watching my training regimen?” Rainbow shook her head as she sat up straight on the cloud.

“Nah not really, I was mostly out here doing some free-style training myself. But then I saw you working out and I figured I come down and say high. And maybe hoped to see you use your fire powers like you told us about.” Rainbow said with gleeful anticipation of seeing Flamedramon use his powers.

“If I were to use any of my fire powers here Rainbow, I could set this whole field ablaze. So I try not to use my fire powers unless I’m in a location I know that my flames wouldn’t do so much damage. So I have to be careful where I use my powers, otherwise I could cause a lot of damage.” Flamedramon explained to the pegasus who seemed to catch on what the Digimon implied, as well as the risk of rampant wild fires breaking out and possibly causing harm to others.

“Yikes.” Was all that cyan pony could say as she rubbed the back of her head with a hoof. But the tension of the atmosphere was cut short when both Rainbow’s and Flamedramon’s stomachs started to grumble.

“Say why don’t we get something to eat, my treat!” Rainbow proposed as she hopped up onto the cloud.

“That sounds good.” Flamedramon agreed as his stomach gave another grumble.

The pegasus then hopped off her cloud and backflipped in the air where she then gave the cloud a quick buck, dispersing the cloud till it was gone. Once the little aerial acrobatics was over, Rainbow started to fly off towards Ponyville, but she stopped when she noticed that Flamedramon wasn’t following her, after turning to face the Digimon the mare was about to speak but stopped when the pieces of Flamedramon’s armor burst into flames. Of course Rainbow Dash was surprised by the sudden combustion, but after the flames died down she was now witnessing the Digimon was now standing before her virtually naked. Except for the belts strapped to his biceps and thighs. With his body now fully exposed, Rainbow Dash was able to really see just how lean and fit he was, and she was impressed at how well he looked. There was even a small blush forming on her face as she stared at Flamedramon’s incredibly toned body, seeing the muscles flex and move under his skin. But the mare’s thoughts shifted to thinking if Spike would grow up to be anything like Flamedramon when he grew up. Even if he was a dragon, and Flamedramon was a monster from another reality.

With Flamedramon now de-robed so to speak, the pair then left the fields behind them, and made their way into the town after a good jog and flight. When the duo entered the town it was now a bustling hotspot of activity, with ponies going to various stands, or shops, and buying products that they needed. There were also a flurry of pegasi flying about moving clouds around, and seeing how the winds were doing today. And as the pair continued to walked about the town in search of a place to eat, ponies would stop what they were doing briefly to look at Flamedramon, all surprised and awe at seeing how well-defined his body looked without the armor taking up most of their attention. Some of the mare’s even developed their own little blushes as they watched Digimon pass them by. As for the Digimon himself he was starting to become a little bashful again, as so many ponies stopped at what they were doing and simply ogled him, it was almost bordering on the line of being uncomfortable. But Flamedramon was able to brush most of it off.

Soon enough the Digimon and pony came to a stop once they reached the destination that Rainbow was leading them towards, which was a nice looking little diner that said ‘the Silver Spoon’ on its billboard. Making their way up to the open patio, Rainbow plopped herself down on a stool at one of the open tables, while Flamedramon just sat down on the floor as the stools were too small for him to sit comfortably, and picked up the menu that was on the table. And as the pair got situated and started to browse through the menu, Flamedramon started to noticed that the other ponies at the other tables were talking about him. There was also the sound of wings flapping coming closer to their table.

“Good morning and welcome to the Silver Spoon!”

Looking away from the menu Flamedramon saw a very bright pink pegasus mare with an equally vibrant lime green mane and tail, and a pair of lovely green eyes, hovering by their table with a note pad in one hoof, and a pencil carefully being balanced in the other. Overall the mare looked positively adorable to Flamedramon, and bright and cheerful demeanor was so delightful to see.

“I’ll be your waitress for today, the names Floral!” the mare seemed to be in a really good mood, as her bright smile and happy expression was nearly infectious.

“How’s it going Rainbow?” she asked the cyan mare in question.

“Not too bad Floral, just treating my new friend to breakfast after our little work outs.” Floral then looked towards Flamedramon and her eyes seemed to sparkle just a little bit more than they did before.

“Oh my! Oh my, oh my, oh my, your that dragon from another world my roommate was telling me about aren’t you?” the giddy pegasus said as she wiggled around in place in mid-air, getting a small chuckle from both Rainbow and Flamedramon at how giddy and excitable the mare was.

“Yes. My name is Flamedramon, it’s nice to meet you.” the Digimon said pleasantly.

“Oh the pleasure is all mine! It’s rare that we get non-ponies in town.” Floral said as she spun the pencil around in the crock of her hoof before taking it into her mouth, and having the tip hang over her notepad.

“So, what can I get you both for breakfast today?” Rainbow was the first to speak up as she places her menu down.

“I’ll get the spinach omelet, extra tomatoes in it, with the shredded hash browns, and a hot chocolate.” Floral quickly wrote written down Rainbow’s order, before she turned to look at the Digimon who was still studying his menu.

“And you?” the waitress said through the pencil in her mouth. The Digimon took another moment of going through the selection of options before finally deciding on what he wanted.

“I’ll like to try the chocolate and banana waffles with a side of scrambled eggs, and I’ll take coffee, black.” The mare nodded as she wrote the second order down which upon completion tossed the pencil up, catching it in the crook of her hoof and then placed it and her notepad into her workers apron.

“Coming right up!” Floral said in a very cheerful voice before she took the menus, and flew back into the diner, leaving the pair alone at their table.

As the pair waited for their food to be served to them, they mostly sat at the table in silence, not because they didn’t want to talk to one another but mostly because they were focused on something. Rainbow was simply focused on the diner and waiting for her order, she was never good at waiting for any meal she order at an establishment. Flamedramon on the other hand was focused on just watching the ponies going about their days, and how they all looked so happy, as well as how busy they were in general. Compared to the digital world this would be a rare sight to see, a town that wasn’t the site of some kind of conflict, or preparing for a fight, and people just going about their day with no worries of being attacked. It honestly made Flamedramon feel more at ease, which rarely happened as he was always ready for fight, especially when another Digimon did show up and decided to attack him. It’s been like that ever since he’d digi-volved from a Veemon with the power of the Digi-Egg of Courage so many years ago.

Several minutes have gone by and Floral eventually came back outside with both Flamedramon’s and Rainbow’s orders, each plate balanced perfectly on each of her outstretched hooves. When she approached the table Floral than carefully, and expertly slid the appropriate plate in front of its proper recipient, which when completed the pink pegasus quickly darted back inside the diner, and re-emerged just as quickly with a small tray holding the mugs of their desired beverage. When the pair had everything Floral bid them farewell and left the duo to start eating their breakfasts. And the food was really good as Flamedramon ate away at his waffles and eggs, tasting their sweet and savory flavors and the coffee aided in mellowing out the sweetness of the waffles, and the savory taste of the eggs while both foods tamed the bitterness of the coffee.

“I gotta say, this is pretty good.” Flamedramon said after swallowing his mouthful of waffle, indulging in the sweet flavors of the chocolate and bananas before washing the sweet and buttered food down with a swig of his more bitter tasting coffee, cleansing and resetting his palate.

“Yeah the Silver Spoon is my favorite place to eat out. Especially when it comes to breakfast.” Rainbow said through a mouthful of her omelet which was washed down with her mug of hot chocolate.

“So Flamedramon, got anything planned for today?” the mare asked the Digimon.

“Not really.” The Digimon simply said as ate half of his eggs with syrup coating them. “I figured I’d just wander around town, or just head back to the library.” Rainbow started to snicker before she continued to eat her breakfast, which caught Flamedramon’s attention as he quirked a brow at her.

“I bet Twilight kept you up pretty late last night, with her asking you a lot of questions when you stayed with her huh?” The mare chuckled as the Digimon gave a small nod as he cuts up his waffles.

“She certainly had an endless list of questions, but after the hundredth one or so she eventually tired herself out, and fell asleep.” Rainbow couldn’t help but laugh even more at how her friend acted based on the Digimon’s statement, and her hunch on how Twilight did ask a lot a questions.

“Wow! I was only kidding, but she literally did that? Asked you over a hundred questions?” Flamedramon simply nodded as he took another bite of his waffles, with a little bit of egg on it as well.

After their bout of conversation, the duo decided to eat the rest of their meal in silence. In no time the pair finished their breakfast, and after giving Floral the payment for the meal, as well as a tip, the pair departed ways. As Rainbow Dash said that she needed to meet up with the weather team for some kind of update that was going on. Now on his own Flamedramon decided to just wandering around the town, looking for anything to do as well as see more of the town, but so far nothing seemed to garner his attention to much as he traversed the streets. During his mostly aimless wandering the Digimon passed by the establishments that Pinkie Pie worked at, and the one that Rarity owned and worked at, and speaking of Rarity’s shop the door to the building burst open and a smaller white filly came rushing out before bumping into Flamedramon’s foot.

“OW!” the filly whined as she rubbed her muzzle, before looking towards what she ran into. That’s when Flamedramon watched as her eyes slowly traveled up the Digimon’s leg, and once they came up to Flamedramon’s face the fillies eyes widen with surprise.

“Hello there.” the Armor Digimon said as he gave the filly a small smile.

“Hello.” The filly nervously replied as she just stared up at Flamedramon with awe. That’s when the pair heard the door of the building opened up, and a familiar voice called out.

“Sweetie Belle before you—Oh!” Rarity gasped when she spotted Flamedramon standing right outside her shop. “Hello there Flamedramon, I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

“I was merely passing by. That’s when this little one came running into my leg.” Flamedramon explained as he pointed down to the filly who was still gawking at him.

“That would be my little sister, Sweetie Belle.” The fashionista stated as she made her way over to the duo, where the filly scooted over to her older sisters side. “Luckily you didn’t get to far Sweetie, I forgot to tell you that mother will be by later to take you home.”

“Oh, okay.” The filly said before glancing up to the Digimon, who just looked down at her with a small smile on his muzzle. “So, Rarity, is this the one that saved you and Spike from the diamond dogs the other day?”

“That’s right. Oh! That reminds me, Flamedramon would you follow me please?”

The mare asked as she then trotted back to her shop, which Flamedramon obliged as he followed after her as he was very curious about what Rarity had in store. As for Sweetie Belle, she watched the Digimon walk off towards the store, still staring at him with a sense of wonder in her eyes, before running off to go talk to her friends about this encounter. After entering the shop the Digimon saw that main lobby of the building was not only elegantly fancy looking, but also had racks and what looked like pony mannequins scattered about that had dresses on them for display. And each and everyone seemed to be masterly crafted and well-made, although, despite the clothes looking stunning they did make the Digimon question something. Why would these ponies need or required clothing, as they all walk around in the buff, not minding if any of their more intimate parts being clearly displayed. As the Digimon contemplated on why ponies would need, or want clothing, Rarity came trotting down a flight of stairs with her horn glowing as she held something next to her.

“Here.” The mare said cheerfully as she offered the item to the Digimon. Taking it in his hand Flamedramon was able to get a good look at it, and it appeared to be some kind of bejeweled wisp of fire, made with ruby, jasper, and topaz with a black string holding onto it by the base.

“I made this for you as a sign of thanks for saving me and Spike.” The Digimon held the offered trinket in the palm of his hand and simply marveled at the craftsmanship that went into making it. For as long as he could remember, Flamedramon hasn’t really received any kind of reward or trinket of gratitude from anyone before, aside from a celebration party or another Digimon’s words of gratitude.

“It’s wonderful Rarity.” Flamedramon said bewildered as he hung the trinket around his neck, the ruby, topaz, and jasper standing out against the Armor Digimon’s white underside. “I appreciate the gift Rarity, and I’ll be sure to treasure it.”

“Well I’m happy that you like it darling. And I hope that we can be good friends, even if you return to your world.” Rarity said sincerely while the Digimon gave the mare a thankful smile.

“I’m sure we will.” As the two stood in the boutiques main lobby the pair heard the door opened up with a ringing of a bell accompanying it, and when Flamedramon and Rarity looked to see who it was, they found Spike standing in the doorway.

“Oh there you are Flamedramon.” The dragonling said as he then waddled over to the pair.

“Is something wrong Spike?” the Digimon asked the dragonling to which Spike responded quickly with a shake of his head as he then stood before the tall Armor Digimon.

“No. Actually I came to get you, the princess want’s to meet you.” the duo looked surprised to hear this little bit of information as Spike continued.

“We just got a letter from princess Celestia saying that she would like to meet you and talk about how to help you, so Twilight is already at the train station waiting for us. I was wandering around town looking for you so we could head on out.”

“Well in that case, let’s get a move on.” Rarity said as she made her way to the door which caused the dragon and Digimon to looked at her with a befuddled look.

“You’re coming with us Rarity?” Flamedramon asked inquisitively to which Rarity only responded with a nod as she looked over her whither.

Without any further delay Flamedramon followed after Rarity and Spike, as they guided the Digimon through the town and towards the train station, where they will set off to meet Twilight’s mentor, one of the ruling princesses of this country called Equestria. Princess Celestia. But as the group made their way to the station the Armor Digimon started to wonder what would this lands princess be like, hopefully this Celestia wouldn’t be like most of the Royal Knights of the Digital World, in being to occupied with their own tasks and missions to not pay attention to the strife’s of the world. Though considering how Twilight and the others spoke calmly and highly of this princess, as well as having confidence in her ability to help him.

Chapter 3: A Meeting with Royalty and a Challenge [Edited]

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The train ride from Ponyville to Canterlot lasted for about a little more than an hour, and while the ride itself wasn’t all too bad, Flamedramon could definitely say that he doesn’t like train ride too much. The car itself that the Digimon and his entourage was traveling in was fairly cramped, at least for the Digimon as he was twice the size of a normal pony, so he head was close to bumping into the roof. Not only that but the benches they all sat on were rather uncomfortable for him to sit on, with the benches not having enough space for him to sit. The ride was also a little on the slow side, heck, Flamedramon was certain that he could’ve made it to the castle on his own in half the time. As the Armor Digimon took great pride in his speed. But once the ride was over the Digimon was able to exit the train and not feel so confined anymore, but the troubles of the ride to Canterlot were quickly swept to the side as he witnessed the city. Though the city wasn’t as grandeur or monolithic as some in the Digital World, but the city of the ponies was still a sight to behold.

“So this is the capital of your nation.” Flamedramon asked after he and his new friends stepped off the train, and looking at the city before him, and seeing several dozen ponies trotting about. “I must say it’s rather impressive.”

“Well I’m happy that you think so.” Twilight said happily as she smiled up to the tall digital monster as they started to make their way out of the train station, all the while garnering the attention of everypony that the group have passed by.

“We better not keep the princess waiting.” Twilight immediately started to trot out into the city, and began heading straight for the castle while Flamedramon, Rarity, and Spike played catch up as they chased after the fleeing violet unicorn.

As the party continued to make their way through the city, traveling at a slightly brisked pace to keep up with Twilight who was kind of rushing them, Flamedramon took the opportunity to survey the city and see what it has. Compared to other cities that the Digimon has rarely visited or stayed in for some time, the capital of the ponies nation was certainly grandiose in appearance, as buildings were towering, and the streets were full of ponies passing by the group. And speaking of the ponies like the ones in Ponyville, any that even looked in Flamedramon’s way couldn’t help but gaze at him, however the Armor Digimon got the sense that unlike the small town ponies the looks he was getting wasn’t ones of bewilderment or astonishment. If his gut feeling was anything to by, the Digimon felt like these city ponies were, judging him or looking at him with disdain. But he couldn’t quite confirm it without confronting any of the ponies about it.

Putting the uneasy feeling on how the city ponies were looking at him to the side, Flamedramon continued to follow his two pony and lone dragonling guides through the city, and after twenty or so minutes of walking the group eventually made it to the castle. Which was just as impressive as the city itself, although there was one key difference, and it was that there appeared to be armored ponies standing guard at the gates and along the outer wall. Passing through the main gate the Digimon found that there weren’t that many guards out and about, as there was only a handful near the front gate, and maybe a dozen or so patrolling the outer wall. And when he came close to one of them, Flamedramon didn’t feel much of anything from them. he didn’t feel any form of strong admiration to protect, or any strong emotions or convictions from any the guards that his group passes by. In fact, most of them just looked incredibly, board. It’s as if their just waiting out their day and hope something interesting would happen. The only emotions he could sense from the guards was minor shock and surprise, probably because they weren’t expecting to see someone like him just wandering around the castle, and being led by two mares and a dragonling.

Turning his attention away from the guards, Flamedramon started to look at the interior of the castle and seeing just how splendid it looked, from its high and wide hallways and the equally tall windows, as well as the pedestal, vases, and other little nick knacks that try to make the halls less, empty. But as the group continued to traverse through the castle, Flamedramon noticed that he was seeing very little guards on patrol, in fact most of the ponies he and the others have passed by were mares dressed up as maids, and stallions garbed in clothing that made them look like butlers.

“Twilight.” The mare turned to look over her withers as Flamedramon spoke up while still looking around. “If I may ask, how often does your countries military get put into service?”

“Well not that much. Equestria’s been in a state of peace for nearly a thousand years, in fact there hasn’t been any records or historical events that points out our nation being attacked or threaten.” Twilight said as she and the group climbed a flight of stairs.

“So there’s never really been a need to deploy our military. In fact, Equestria doesn’t actually have a military to speak of.” That statement caused the Digimon to look at his guide with a shocked and a rather concerned expression.

“Are you serious?!” Twilight just nodded as she turned to look where she was going.

“The royal guard is more of a token task force with minimal training, and having no actual combat experience.” The group rounded a corner as they continued on while Twilight continues on explaining the state of her countries armed forces.

“So in actuality the royal guard is more of a peacekeeper force, or something along the line of a higher rank of social security.”

“But surely there’s at least a platoon, or something that has battled ready guards. You can’t expect peace to be a forever lasting thing.” Flamedramon said in a very worried tone as thoughts of an invading force, like the ones that occur in the Digital World, could effortlessly overtake the ponies peaceful society.

“No I’m afraid not. The guards aren’t exactly meant to be a force for fighting and conflict, it’s always been their creed to keep the peace, not break it or contribute to it.”

“…I see.” Flamedramon said somberly to himself as he took in everything that Twilight had just explained to him.

Honestly from just hearing how this nation of peaceful ponies don’t have a legitimate means of protecting themselves, made the Armor Digimon feel greatly concerned for the safety of this nation if something did threaten them. Some time has passed since the party had entered the castle, and wander throughout its halls as they headed to their destination, but eventually the group made it to where they were meant to meet the princess. Which was a set of massive double doors. Using her magic Twilight pushed the doors wide enough for the party to move past them, and when they did Flamedramon found that on the other side was a rather spacious room which was pretty empty aside from the lone throne. At the foot of the pedestal leading up to the throne, two guards stood with another pair of guards off to their sides, and then there was the figure sitting on the throne.

The pony on the throne was certainly different from the rest of population that Flamedramon has seen, as her coat of fur was as white as snow, and her mane and tail were like flowing banners of an aurora borealis that wafted gently in an invisible breeze, and the golden bracer around ponies neck along with the golden crown simply added more to this ponies charm and beauty. The pony then rose up from the throne and started to make their way towards the group, and their magenta eyes never once left Flamedramon’s as they just stared at each other, and when the pony stood before the Digimon it really felt like this pony was studying him. As if they trying to see who and what he really was.

“I must say that in all my years of governing this nation, I’ve never seen anything quite like you before.” The mare said in a soft yet warm voice as she started to look Flamedramon up and down, examining his bare body while he did so in turn. “Twilight’s description of you in her letter doesn’t do you justice.”

“Thank you miss, and if I may say in response I’ve never seen anyone like you as well.” Flamedramon said as respectively as he could give while also giving a very small curt bow.

“I assume that you are the princess that Twilight said might be able to help me.” the mare nodded as she took a step back, and gave her own courteous bow along with a delighted smile.

“Indeed I am. My name is Celestia, and it’s a pleasure to meet you Flamedramon of the digital world.” the princess then stood up straight as she looked at the digital monster with an apologetic look. “Unfortunately, my sister is unable to meet you at this moment in time, as she is resting to fulfill her duties later today.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you as well princess, and it’s no problem at all.” The Digimon said as he gives a wave of his hand.

“Excellent. Now to get down to business, and the reason why I asked you to come here in response to your question if I am able to send you back to your own world.” the princess said as she lets out what sounded like a disappointed sigh before she continued on speaking, which caused the Digimon to develop a small forlorn frown.

“Unfortunately, I haven’t discovered anything that may help you in this endeavor.” the group collectively winced when the princess said this as she continued on.

“After reading the letter that Twilight sent me, as well as the details of how you came here, plus your ventures in your world, I searched the archives for anything that might be able to help you return to your world. Which is why I didn’t respond to the letter sooner till just now.”

“So I’m afraid I cannot help you with this matter Flamedramon, I am sorry.” Celestia bowed her head in shame as she gave her less than favored bit of news, but the Armor Digimon only shook his head in response.

“It’s not your fault princess. It made me happy to know that you at least tried to help me, that’s more than enough.” The mare gave a small smile to the Digimon as she raised her head and gave him a thankful smile in return. Twilight, Rarity and Spike were also happy to hear what Flamedramon had just said that he wasn’t upset, but they still felt bad that their new Digimon friend wouldn’t be able to return home.

“So what will you do now?” Celestia asked Flamedramon which made the Digimon to think and ponder for a bit, thinking about what could he do while in this world.

“I’m not quite sure. Normally I’d just move from one town, or settlement to the other, seeing if there’s anything that I can do to help those in needed or those that are being threaten by malicious forces.” Flamedramon then brushed his left hand against his scalp as he continued to ponder.

“But as I’m not familiar with your world I’m not quite sure what I should do.” That’s when the Digimon felt something brush up against his side and nuzzled his leg in comfort. Looking down Flamedramon found Twilight giving him a reassuring look.

“You can still stay in Ponyville with me and Spike at the library for as long as you want, until you figure out what you want to do.” The Digimon looked at his lavender friend with a thankful smile as he gives her a gentle pat on the head, getting a small chortle from the mare.

“Thank you Twilight, and I’d appreciate that but only if I’m not an inconvenience to either of you.” Twilight just pursed her lips and blew a raspberry, showing that the Digimon’s statement was unfounded.

“You won’t be an inconvenience Flamedramon, we’re friends, and friends help each other. Even if we’ve only known each other for two days.” The unicorn said as she nuzzled her head into the Digimon’s hand, and getting a few scratches behind her ears in return.

After the meeting between the Digimon and the princess had concluded, the group were about to leave the princess to perform her other royal business, but before they did the princess invited them to have a quick lunch. The party accepted of course and proceeded to follow the princess out of the throne room, and off towards the castle’s dining hall while the group made idle conversation with one another, but as the group was making their way to their destination Flamedramon saw another pony coming their way. This pony was clearly male given his greater size and general overall bulk, though this pony seemed to be of the more broader frame than most stallions that Flamedramon has observed, and judging by his more ornate golden armor with its deep purple collar and starburst symbol, probably suggest that this pony was of a higher ranking officer of the royal guard. After examining the stallion the Digimon noticed the happy smile he has on his muzzle, while also seeing Twilight run over to the stallion where they met halfway, and gave each other a big hug.

“Shining! It’s good to see you!” Twilight says happily as she and the stallion hugged one another.

“It’s good to see you to Twiliy.” The stallion says as he lets the mare go. “What brings you back to—” the stallion stopped in mid-sentence when he took notice of Flamedramon, and his gentle demeanor instantly changed to a more stern one. Twilight seemed to notice the stallions change of mood, and at who he was looking at.

“Oh, Shining this is my newest friend.” The mare said as she trots back over to the group, and stood side by side to the tall Digimon. “This is Flamedramon, and he is a hero from another world.”

“A hero huh?” the stallion questioned as he approached the Armor Digimon, looking up at him with a scrutinizing expression while Celestia spoke up.

“Yes. From what Twilight has written Flamedramon is a wandering hero that comes to the aide of those who need it, in fact, he aided a town that was being under sieged before being coming to Equestria.” The stallion continued to scrutinize the Digimon, but after a solid minute of simply staring at each other, the stallion then gave a salute to the tall figure.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Flamedramon, I am Shining Armor the captain of the Royal Guard.”

Shining Armor said in a upbeat tone as he gives a friendly smile, while he looks up to Flamedramon. The Digimon himself just stood there for a moment and examined the stallion like he did with the other guards, and like the others, there was no sense of alertness, or anything that spoke to the Digimon that this stallion was a harden and readied guard. In fact the stallion even seemed to have his guard down as he stood before the Digimon, seemingly totally at ease within his presence.

“It’s nice to meet you as well Shining Armor.” Flamedramon said as he gives his own salute to the captain of the guard.

“We were actually on our way to lunch captain, care to join us?” Celestia asked the stallion who lowered his leg, and looked over towards his princess.

“I’d love to, but I have my rounds I need to do.”

The stallion then trotted past the Digimon and went about to finish his patrols, while the three mares and Spike went off to the dining hall. Flamedramon on the hand just kept watch on Shining Armor as he trots off for a bit, before turning around and catching up with the group. But before they got too far the Digimon looked over his shoulder, and saw the stallion talking to a pair of guards, and it looked like they were discussing something. Turning his attention away from the gossiping guards, the Armor Digimon continued to follow his female entourage and Spike to their desired destination.

After the group made it to the dining hall Flamedramon saw several tables within the room, one being the longest and in the center of the room, and two smaller tables that had platters, bowls and other food holders that were briming with various foods. Most of which looked like cold items, but there were a few that looked freshly cooked. The group then started to gather up their desire foods, except for Flamedramon as he’s already eaten today but he did grab a few items to eat as to not be rude, and once everyone had their food they all sat at the main table and ate. But as they ate the princess asked if she could hear some of Flamedramon’s adventures in his world, which Spike, Rarity, and Twilight also wanted to hear, in fact all of them were practically briming with excitement at anticipating the Digimon’s stories.

So the digital monster opted to tell the group a tale from one of his more, daring escapades, where Flamedramon and a comrade of his joined forces to stop a SkullGreymon that was set loose on a large town, which resulted in a lot of casualties. The battle was so grueling and taxing that Flamedramon and his comrade felt as if they weren’t to prevail, yet the duo pulled through and mustered all the power they could and continued on to fight the monstrous Ultimate, but they didn’t fight alone as some of the strongest inhabitants of the town joined and aided in battle. By the stories conclusion the mad Digimon was defeated, and Flamedramon and his comrade were able to emerge victorious and save the survivors of the town.

“I must say that was quite a daring venture.” Celestia said as she finishes the very last of her tea. “But it was sad to hear that so many lives were lost during that mad Digimon’s rampage.”

“It was certainly a troublesome fight, thankfully though Raidramon and I weren’t completely alone in that fight. But I did wish we could’ve done more.” Flamedramon lamented as h looked down at his cup of tea with a disappointed look.

“It’s still sad that so many Digimon lost their lives.” Twilight said as she wiped the small amount of tears swelling up in her eyes as she listened to her friends story.

“That’s the reality of my world Twilight, you never know what Digimon will come around, or what their intentions will be before it’s too late.” Flamedramon said as he patted the mare to provide some comfort, which worked as the mare gave a thankful smile to her tall Digimon friend. A moment later and a pony wearing a maid’s outfit came into the dining hall, and started to take the plates in her magical grasp, while also cleaning the table as the group departs.

“Thank you for joining me for lunch everypony, it certainly made my afternoon a bit more enjoyable.” Celestia said pleasantly as she thanks her guest, all of who bowed to the royal.

“Not at all princess.” The two ponies and dragon said in unison as they all stood up, Flamedramon then places a hand over his chest as he bows his head.

“I will like to thank you again for attempting to look for a way back to my world princess.” The princess gave a small smile as she nods her head, before relenting that she was unable to help the Digimon. After giving the princess their thanks for lunch, and their farewell, the group started to make their way out of the castle. However before they got too far, the group found themselves face to face with Shining Armor once more.

“Hey there big brother.” Twilight said cheerfully to her older sibling.

“Hey there Twiliy. Are you and the others heading back to Ponyville?”

“Yup. Unfortunately, the princess wasn’t able to help Flamedramon get back to his world, so he’ll be staying with us for the time being until he figures things out.” after Twilight had finished explaining the Digimon’s situation, the stallion then looked squarely up at the Armor Digimon, which Flamedramon noticed he has some sort of look of determination in his eyes.

“Speaking of your friend, you said he’s a hero, right?” Shining inquired as he looked to his sister.

“That’s right.” Rarity said as she watches the stallion trot up to Flamedramon.

“I’ve been wandering something after meeting you.” The stallion said as he looked up to the Digimon, who looked down with an inquisitive expression. “How would you like to have a quick sparring match with me?” the group was honestly a little surprised to hear this from the stallion, especially Flamedramon as he wasn’t quite expecting it.

“I would advise against it.” the Digimon said in a cautious tone, causing the stallion as well as the others to look a bit confused. “Even if we were to simply spar, it would still end up with you being hurt.” Shining Armor actually looked offended that Flamedramon suggested that the stallion was weak.

“Hey! I’m a lot stronger than I look, I am after all the CAPTAIN of the Royal Guard!” clearly the stallion wasn’t going to back down from this, especially after Flamedramon had basically called the captain a weakling. So the Digimon decided to play along.

“Very well, if you want to have this sparring match, then I’ll oblige.”

Shining Armor gave a cocky grin as he nodded his head, and started to lead the Digimon down the hall while Twilight and her two friends looked on with worry. They were sure that Flamedramon wouldn’t hurt Twilight’s brother, to badly, but after hearing the few stories he’s told them they were greatly concern for the stallions safety. So, to ensure that nothing was going to get out of hoof, the two unicorns and Spike followed after the duo. Hopefully, no pony would get hurt, emphasis on the word, hopefully.

Chapter 4: Flamedramon vs. Shining Armor [Edited]

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The barracks of the Royal Guards of Canterlot was quite a spacious area, not only was it a place where the guards changed out of their armor, patrols swapped with others, it also housed a massive training hall that had practice dummies and targets mounted on the walls along with practice weapons. Though it wasn’t as worn down as well used as Flamedramon thought it would be when they entered it, then again it could just be that the guards cleaned and maintained it, so it looks new before actual training happens. But like with guards that he’s come across so far, as well as his impression on the captain, all of the guards in the barracks training hall didn’t seem to be taking their training seriously. The unicorns were practicing their magic, pegasi worked on their acrobatics, and the earth ponies trained in martial combat and restrain tactics. Yet none of them seemed all that interested in really improving themselves, just practice enough to maintain their current level of skill.

But today the barracks wasn’t just a place for the guards to train themselves in maintaining whatever skills they had, today the barracks was going to be where the captain of the Royal Guard spar with Flamedramon, to see what a supposed hero from another world is capable of. News of the event raced through the castle so fast that after mere minutes of the challenged being made, the barracks was already being filled up with even more guards, even maids and butlers and other castle staff were piling up into barracks. And as more and more ponies came they all started sitting or standing while talking with one another about their captain challenging the strange creature that has accompanied Twilight Sparkle to the castle. Some of the ponies were even making and taking bets on who would win this sparring match.

“So who do you think is going to win this little sparring match?” An earth pony guard mare asked her fellow guards as ponies were placing their bets amongst their little groups, while Shining Armor and Flamedramon took their positions in the main combat arena.

“Well the captain didn’t get his rank for nothing.” An pegasus stallion commented as his wings ruffled as he looked to his fellow guard. “He was the only one to ace not only the written exam for the post, but showed the most skill in training out of his class to make captain.”

“Maybe.” A unicorn mare guard said as she brushed some of her mane out of her face, before she looked squarely at Flamedramon.

“But that other guy is ripped! I mean look at those muscles, and that body, you can definitely tell that he works out and uses it.” the mare commented as she looked at the Digimon’s well-toned and fit body, she even subconsciously licked her lips as she looks at Flamedramon’s muscles.

Speaking of said digital monster and captain, both were standing in the center of the barracks combat arena, where the captain was stretching and limbering himself up, while the Armor Digimon seemed to be doing a few minor warm ups. While the combatants got themselves ready Twilight, Rarity, and Spike were sitting among the guards, and were wondering how this mock fight was going to go down, as well as see if Shining Armor would be alright. But what the trio found a little odd was that Flamedramon wasn’t dawning his armor, in fact he seemed to be very disinterested in the fight, or at least something close to it.

“To make it clear Shining Armor, this is a sparring match. Not a real battle to see who wins or not by traditional definition, correct?” the Digimon asked as he and the captain finished with their own warm ups.

“That’s right. But I don’t want you to hold back, I want to see what you’re really capable of. I want to see how I can stack up to a hero from another world.” Shining Armor said as his horn flushed with magic for a brief moment to rev up his magical flow.

“I would advise fighting against you at one-hundred percent for this little spar.” Flamedramon warned as his tail flicked about.

“I can tell that your strong, just not strong enough to face me if I were to go all out.” Shining Armor again seemed to look offended that Flamedramon suggested that the captain was weaker than him, and not even a true threat or challenge.

“As I said before Flamedramon, I’m stronger than I look!” Shining Armor barked back as his ears twitched in irritation. “So don’t treat me like a colt playing soldier, I want you to give this sparring match everything!” The captain said with a snort as he pawed at the ground, as for the Digimon himself he simply gave a sigh as he shrugs his shoulders.

“Very well then.”

Twilight, Rarity, Spike, and the rest of the audience in attendance then watched the Digimon raise his arms, and held them in a X formation in front of his face, then in one swift motion swung his arms back down to his side. But it was not a simple act of pumping himself up as many of the ponies believe, instead as the arms swung back to the Digimon’s side they all saw Flamedramon’s chest, feet, and head burst into flames! Everypony in attendance was thoroughly shocked in seeing the flames just, spontaneously erupting out of nowhere, and just bathing the Digimon. But their shocked turned to astonishment as the flames died down, and everypony then saw that Flamedramon was now dawned in his armor, and was already getting into a fighting position. And as he did so, the ponies felt that the atmosphere in the room changed, as if the air has become humid and thick which made it hard to breath. However the atmosphere wasn’t the only thing that changed.

When Shining Armor, or any pony looked upon the Digimon, they all could instinctually feel an intense presence or aura emanating from the digital monster. It was a sensation that caused all of them to shiver. Even Shining Armor swallowed a lump that had developed in his throat, while sweat actually started to form on his forehead before getting into a battle-ready pose, with his horn lit with magic to ready any spell. The captain was just going to use his own combat skills, as he thought that the Digimon was just a pure brawler, but after the display of fire and dawning of his armor the captain decided to use his magic as well. With both the captain and digital monster now ready to begin their match, a tall stout unicorn guard then approaches the arena, and as he does so he glances between the captain and the Digimon.

“This will be a friendly sparing match; the winner will be decided when one of the combatants surrender, where the match would be concluded. Challengers, are you both ready?” The stallion announced and clarified before he looked between both competitors, to which they both nodded their heads in confirmation.

“Then, begin!”

The moment that the stallion started the fight, everypony watched in startled surprise as Flamedramon bolted over to Shining Armor with such incredible speed that from the onlooking crowed, it appeared that the Digimon had teleported! Shining Armor was taken aback by the Digimon’s surprising burst of speed that he couldn’t defend himself probably, the only thing he was able to bring up a small shield spell to block a punch, but it was soundly shattered upon making contact with punch, which continued on with its flight course until it struck the stallion square in the face! The captain was sent flying backwards across the ring, till he skid to a stop two feet away from the edge of the arena, while his nose dripped with a few drops of blood.

After recovering from the attack, and curing his bleeding nose, the captain retaliated by firing a fairly strong magic blast at Flamedramon. But as it closed in on the Digimon, who seemed unfazed and not even attempting to dodge the attack, everypony watched as the magical missile was instantly backed hand by Flamedramon’s right gauntlet, dispersing it with ease! Everypony was utterly shocked at seeing the digital monster quite effortlessly knock away the captains attack, even Shining Armor was utterly dumbfounded by the action. Shaking the shock away the captain then gathered a lot more magic into his horn, and then fired off a few more magical blast’s at the Digimon, but like the one before, they were all simply knocked away, preferably into the air or sent crashing into the ground where they quickly dissipated back into the ether.

Shining attempted to fire more blast’s at his opponent, five magical blast at the same time with each being fired in different directions, before they arced their way towards Flamedramon. But the Armor Digimon didn’t even flinch. Then in an impressive display of skill and speed, the Armored Digimon either punched or kicked each magic blast till they all were dispersed. After the fifth magic blast was bested, the ponies, including Shining Armor, were just left staring at the Digimon in awe. However the captain was brought out of his astonished state when the Digimon again lunged towards him, forcing him to create another shield, only this time he was more prepared so when the Digimon went in for a punch, the shield held, if just barely as a sizable crack covered the surface of the shield where Flamedramon struck. But before the stallion could repair his shield, or even make a counter attack now that his opponent was in closer range, Flamedramon spun on his feet and delivered a sweeping powerful kick which shattered the shield in one go! But the stallion didn’t waver, or get distraught, instead Shining Armor went in for a counter attack, standing on his hind legs and going in for a punch of his own while the Digimon recovers from the wide kick. Yet the Digimon seemed prepared as his tail lashed out, and caught the captains leg and brushed him off to the side.

“Wow! He’s really good!” One guard said in bewilderment as he watched the captain recovered and went in for another attack, but he again missed with two of his own punches, while Flamedramon spun around the captain and knocked him to the floor with a low sweeping kick.

“I hate to say it, but the captain is definitely out classed in this fight.” Another guard said as she watches the captain recover from his drop to the floor, dodging a tail smack from the Digimon who went back on the offense with barrage of punches of his own.

“I don’t even think this guy is even taking the captain seriously.” Another guard said as his eyes watched the Digimon very closely as the captain tried to dodge all of the punches, only managing to do so against a few but getting scrapped and bruised by others as he tried to use magic to make his opponent back off. “I mean it may just be me, but he doesn’t seem to be using a whole lot of his actual power.”

Twilight and her two friends continued to hear various comments that the guards were making, and while Twilight, Rarity, and Spike weren’t adept in fighting in any compacity, they could definitely tell that Flamedramon wasn’t using probably half of his skill and power. At least based on what they’ve heard from the Digimon himself when he went into detail about how he fought in the past, it was also suspicious that they haven’t seen Flamedramon even use his supposed fire-based powers. All he’s been doing was using his physical skills throughout the fight.

“Twilight are you sure your brother will be alright?” Rarity asked as she watched Flamedramon deliver another punch to the stallion, this time to the captains gut, causing Shining Armor to ‘gaffe!’ and drop to his knees.

“I hope so!” Twilight said worriedly as Flamedramon just stood over her brother, who was clutching his stomach as he looks up to the Digimon. It was hard for her to see her brother be easily beaten in this fight, especially since she knew how much pride her brother took in his role of captain and being a physically adept pony.

“Do you give up?” Flamedramon asked Shining Armor who just gritted his teeth as he looked up to the Digimon. And as much as he would like to try, Shining Armor knew that right now he wouldn’t be able to best the Digimon, he was just far stronger and more skilled in combat than he was. Especially with the captain suspecting that the digital monster was indeed holding back.

“I give up.” the stallion said as he hung his head as he sat there, while the guard that started the sparing match declared the official winner to being the Armor Digimon, getting a hushed or low conversations from the audience about how the fight went. Even the ponies that were taking bets were all shocked to see the difference in skill between the two.

With the match concluded the Digimon dis-armored himself in another flurry of fire, causing the ponies to again gawk and talk about what they just saw, as he now stood over the stallion in the buff. Flamedramon then offered the stallion a hand to take so he could help him up, and once he did Shining Armor placed his hoof in Flamedramon’s hand and was lifted up from the ground onto his hooves. The guards, along with Twilight and her two friends, trotted towards the group and started to check over the two. Though it was mostly on Shining Armor as he was the one receiving all the hits, while Flamedramon has barely any kind of blemish on his skin, aside from a few knicks from Shining Armors attempts to fight back near the end of the fight.

After the guards and Twilight checked Shining over, and saw that none of his wounds were life threatening, or hazardous to his overall health the stallion turned to look at the Digimon, who was getting praises from the other half of the guards and castle staff for his skills. There were even a good amount of mares that were swooning over his prowess.

“Well I’d have to admit, your definitely a lot stronger than I thought you were…even when you WERE holding back.” the stallion commented as he looked up to the Digimon, who looked down at him with a small smile.

“Same to you.” Flamedramon said as he held a hand out again. “You certainly did better than I thought you would, specially towards the end when you used your magical blast to try and make me back off.” The Armor Digimon complimented the stallion who gave a small chortle.

The stallion gave the Digimon an equally friendly smile, and placed his right hoof in the Digimon’s hand where the fingers wrapped around it, and the two shook to show everything was in good sportsmanship. As well as acknowledgement in each other’s skills. After the sparring match was over with, everypony returned to their usual assignments and tasks that they admitted to leaving to witness the fight. Meanwhile after getting Shining Armor to the medical wing to ensure that was indeed alright, Flamedramon and his friends then left the castle, before bidding the guards and Shining Armor a farewell as they made their way through the city, and heading straight for the train station.

“Well this was certainly a bit more exciting than I initially thought it was going to be.” Twilight stated as she and the others passed by various groups of ponies as they closed in on the train station, where they all stood and waited for the next train to pull up.

“You can say that again.” Spike mused as he rode on Twilight’s back as he faced the Armor Digimon that was behind the dragonling and his caretaker. “I’m still blown away on how you handled that fight Flamedramon, I mean Shining Armor is a really tough pony, yet you handled him like he was nothing.”

“Well I have more actual combat experience than he does.” Flamedramon said as the group stood amongst the small crowd of ponies at the station, where they could hear the train coming towards them. “Training can only take one so far, but I’ll give it to him Shining Armor was certainly a lot better than I initially surmised.”

“Well hopefully the rest of the day will be far more relaxing.” Rarity said as the group watched the train come closer and closer to the station.

Once the train started to make its way into the station once it left the tunnel, and came to a slow stop when it finally pulled in the train was then unloaded of its current passengers as they exited the cars. Yet as the ponies exited the cars, the group was met with startled yelps, and curious glances and hushed whispers, as the ponies all focused on Flamedramon. When the last of the ponies exited the train, the ones that were already at the station started to board the vehicle, but as Twilight and her entourage made their way into the train car the unicorn noticed that Flamedramon wasn’t boarding. And was just leaning down to look inside, and looking around the train car.

“Flamedramon, is everything alright darling?” Rarity asked the Digimon as she peered up to him with a curious expression adoring her face.

“No offense, but your trains are rather, cramp and uncomfortable for my liking. I’ll just make my why back to town on my own.” Flamedramon said as he pulled his head back out of the train car, leaving the two mares and dragonling to look at him with questioning looks on their faces.

Then in one huge leap the ponies saw Flamedramon bound over the train! The ponies in the car then rushed to the other side and were left looking on with amazement at what they were seeing! All of the ponies in the car was watching the Digimon leaping and bounding down the mountains face side, expert scaling down without appearing of being in danger in tripping and falling to his doom, effortlessly landing on the cliffs and ledges with such grace and fluidity, before leaping to a new spot. None of the ponies could even say anything to describe what they are witnessing, as they watched Flamedramon scale down the mountain till he was out of sight. No longer visible to the ponies as they just, stand there, looking out the windows with looks of amazement and wonder plastered on their faces.

Chapter 5: An Ally of Courage Arrives [Edited]

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Several days have gone by since Flamedramon visited Canterlot to not only visit princess Celestia, but also inquire if the princess is able to send Flamedramon back to the digital world. After the meeting in the castle, and the Armor Digimon and his friends returned to Ponyville the Digimon simply enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the town, which he was finding very enjoyable.

Although the peace and quiet wouldn’t last forever though. At least that is what life has always taught him no matter where he is. And his stance on past experience was proven true, as one day a pale blue unicorn show performer came to town and started to stir things up. The worst of which was when she was indirectly responsible for influencing two colts, who foolishly brought a massive creature called an Ursa Minor to Ponyville, which then started to run amok. Luckily, and quite surprisingly, there wasn’t much destruction, but the town was in an uproar. In the end Flamedramon was able to scare off the large beast when Twilight informed the Digimon the Ursa was a baby, and only needed some encouragement to leave town, so the Digimon used his fire powers to scare the massive beast out of town. While also wowing the ponies with his display of wrapping himself in fire, and even creating a huge pillar of fire to scare the beast back to the Everfree.

But for the moment things in town were nice and peaceful, and the Digimon was sitting on the balcony of the Golden Oaks Library and simply enjoying the bright sunny day, while listening to the far off sounds of the ponies going about their day. As the Digimon was sunbathing on the balcony, his mind started to wander about his world and how things there could possibly be going. But considering the state of world was in before he was sent to this new world, the dark factions are probably still at large and trying in spreading their influence anywhere they can, while good-hearted Digimon or those that wish to be left alone fought back. Although those that did fight back would undoubtably end up being defeated and then subjugated, or were just simply destroyed and then absorbed into the invading forces that had killed them. Preventing them from being reborn and live new lives.

“Blaze?” A sudden voice caused the Digimon to open his eyes and look behind him where spotted Twilight, using his new nickname that Pinkie Pie gave him and looking at him while in the door way.

“Hello Twilight. Are you done with your magic lessons for the day?” the Digimon asked as he rose to a sitting position while the unicorn trotted over to him and sat down beside him.

“I’m just taking a break for a little while before going back to my studies.” The mare said before peering up at Flamedramon with a curious look in her eye as her tail flicked about.

“What are you doing out here?” she asked plainly.

“Oh nothing much. I’m just enjoying the peace and quiet and the warmth of the sun.” Blaze said as he stretched out his back, before leaning back with arms keeping him propped up.

“I rarely got to enjoy peaceful moments like this back in my world, so I plan to take as much of it in as I can while I was thinking about how things back home was going.” Blaze said as he closed his eyes and went back to just bathing in the sunlight, but while the Digimon went back to lounging on the balcony, Twilight looked at Blaze with a concerned look.

“I guess after hearing everything about your world when you tell us stories about it, I can see how you like the peace and quiet?” Twilight said in a slightly dowered tone which got the Armor Digimon to look down at her with a curious look.

“I mean, from what you told us of your world, it sounds like a harsh and brutal world to live in.” Blaze gave an understanding nod to the little mare as he then started to speak.

“While my world can be unfair and hostile, there are times when it’s just as peaceful here. It’s just that now adays the peace is being challenged by those that wish to disrupt that harmony.” The Digimon then gave the small mare a more serious look as he continued on with his explanation.

“You also have to remember that in my world, its survival of the fittest, you either live or die by the strength and power that you possess. I know to you ponies it sounds like a cruel way to live, but this is how my world has always functioned, and it will always be that way. And because of that, I want to help as many Digimon that don’t want to be dragged into conflict that is currently ravaging our world. And help my fellow Digimon find peace again.”

“I understand Blaze, but still it’s sad to hear that is how your world is, and that it’s such a common way of living.” Twilight lamented as she hung her head while she seems to be understanding what the digital monster was saying but she still looked sadden that Blaze’s world has to abide to operate with such primitive laws. The Digimon then placed a hand on Twilight’s head, and started to gently pet her causing the mare to smile softly and enjoy the little comforting motion.

“I appreciate your concerns little one.” Twilight looked up to Blaze and saw a warm smile on his face, which made the mare feel a little bit happier to see that she was able to bring some level of happiness to the digital monster while they talked about his world. Though the moment was a bit downplayed That’s when the Digimon’s stomach started to gurgle and grumble. Loudly.

“Guess somepony is hungry.” Twilight chortled as she covered her mouth with a hoof while Blaze place the hand that was petting Twilight on his stomach.

“I guess so.” Blaze said as he sat back up and started to wonder what should he have for lunch today.

“If you want we could go out for lunch, I know a good eatery to go to.” Twilight suggested as she too got to her hooves.

Accepting the little unicorns invitation to going out, the Digimon followed Twilight down the library’s interior before heading out into the town to get some lunch, but not before placing a sign on the door that simply said, ‘out for lunch’. As the pair started walking and trotting through the town they made small talk, with mostly Twilight asking several more questions about the Digital World, as well as other types of Digimon which Blaze tries to answer the questions as best he could. Blaze has never before come across someone who was so inquisitive as Twilight. Eventually the pair made it to the eatery that Twilight was talking about, and as it turned out, it was the same diner that Rainbow Dash took the Digimon to. Stepping onto the patio and after picking out an empty table under a nice overhanging curtain to keep the sun off of them they both looked through the menu at the table, while also waiting for a waiter to come over to them. Which didn’t too long, as Blaze spotted a familiar peppy pink pegasus mare flying towards them.

“Good afternoon my dears I am—oh! Hi there Blaze! How’s it going?” Floral asked in her typical cheerful voice while the Digimon chuckled a little at the bubbly mare’s energetic attitude.

“I’m fine Floral. It’s nice to see you again.” The Armor Digimon said in a polite manner, while the pegasus wiggled in place in mid-air all the while saying.

“Oh my! Oh my, oh my, oh my!” After the very bubbly pegasus has had her moment of adorable weirdness, the mare asked what the pair would like to drink and eat. Twilight got something called a deluxe daffodil combo basket, with crispy hay fries and a glass of raspberry lemonade. As for Blaze, he ordered a veggie burger with curly fries, with a glass of apple cider. Once the orders were placed Floral zipped back into the building to get their food underway.

“Say Twilight, can I ask you something?” the Armor Digimon asked the little unicorn sitting across from him.

“Of course.” Twilight said eagerly. But when she looked up to Blaze, she saw that he looked kind of, serious. As if something was weighing on his mind.

“I was wondering, since the princess can’t find a way to send me back to my world, would I be able to stay here in Ponyville?”

“Of course you could stay Blaze.” Twilight quickly responded before she continued on.

“Like I said back at the castle, your more than welcome to stay here in Ponyville. And if you want to find your own place to live, I’ll help you find a place of your own to stay. Or if you want you could stay with me and Spike at the library.” the Digimon gave the small unicorn another thankful smile which brought an equally pleased smile to the mare herself.

“Thank you Twilight.” The Digimon then gave a small sigh before continuing on. “Lately I’ve been wander if I should, or possible could stay in town, instead of just wandering around the country.”

“You mean how you did back in your world with your wandering drifter life-style?” the Armor Digimon nodded his head before placing his chin in the palm of his right hand, before glancing out towards the town. Watching the ponies trot about, talking, laughing, and living their lives.

“I’ve never stayed in one place for long so seeing everything here so peaceful and no one fighting each other for dominance, to gain strength and evolve, or wage campaigns to expand their territories, I started to wander if I should stay here if it was really possible? Honestly, this little town makes it feel like I ended up in paradise.”

The small unicorn developed a small smile on her face, as she watches the Digimon sitting across from her , who was a wandering warrior that would fight enemies wherever they were, relax and look more calm and collected. Just as the pair were enjoying their little quite moment, while engaging in minor conversation, Floral came back with their desired drinks before flying off back into the diner, and then returning a few minutes later with their orders. Now with their orders in front of them the two started to eat, while still making more small talk. Their conversation even shifted to what should Blaze do to spend his days. Like finding him a place of employment in town, Twilight even suggested that if he wanted to she could help him be part of the Royal Guard. But while in the midst of eating their meal, the both of them heard some kind of big ruckus coming from the nearby shopping district, and when they and the other patrons of the diner, even some of the workers looked to where the commotion was coming from, they all saw a bunch of ponies crowding around the shopping district.

“Is there some kind of celebration going on today Twilight?” Blaze asked the little pony as he watched the small crowd start moving back into the central plaza, where even more ponies started to join the ever growing crowd. It was even impossible for the tall Digimon to see what the commotion was about.

“I don’t think so.” Twilight said before a knowing smirk came over muzzle along with a small chortle.

“But this is Ponyville so it’s hard to tell when an actual holiday happens, and when Pinkie Pie decides to throw a party for somepony.” Twilight said as she looks at the crowd, seeing the ponies backing away from something.

Just then both Twilight and Blaze saw what was causing such a commotion, and for the both of them it was quite the sight to behold. Walking through the crowd of ponies was a tall armored pegasus that looked to be roughly the same size as princess Celestia, whose wings had beautiful golden feathers, a light orange coat with white marks on their underside and legs, while their mane and tail was a nice pale cream color. As for the armor itself, it was gold just like the royal guard, but it has more details on it than the guards, and it looked far more smoother and leaner in overall design. All in all, Twilight was utterly bewitched by the tall equine, as they just exude an aura that simply captivated her. Although the unicorn was a little confused to why the pony had batwings sticking out of the back of its helmet, but it was a minor thing. As the large, armored pony trotted pass the crowd of ponies, Twilight was startled when Blaze suddenly lept out of his seat and landed on the other side of the patio’s railing, before he rushed over to the large pegasus.

“Pegasusmon!” Blaze half-shouted as he rushes over to the armored pegasus, who looked towards him and appeared to be surprised when being called out to. But the moment that the large equine saw Blaze, their blue eyes widen before they galloped towards the Armor Digimon.

“Flamedramon!” the tall pegasus said in a strong smooth male voice. The two figures then skid to a stop in front of each other, before they gave each other a playful shoulder bash.

“So this is where you’ve disappeared to my old friend, I was worried when word spread that you were defeated by Zamielmon.”

“Don’t worry old friend I’m fine, but how did you get here?” Blaze asked as Twilight, and a few other ponies gathered around the two friends as they talked. “Did you happen to be struck by a small black data sphere, with pulsating protrusions and purplish electricity coursing around it?”

“Yes actually.” Pegasusmon confirmed as he tapped the ground with an armored hoof. “It happened when I was assisting a squad of Unimon and a platoon of Firamon in protecting a sacred site in the Northern hemisphere, when a horde of Devidramon came to destroy it to create a new hideout for one of the dark factions. And they weren’t alone as they were being led by a NeoDevimon.”

The armored pegasus Digimon explained to his fellow Digimon comrade, which made the armored dragon Digimon developed a very worried look and visibly tenses up, while the ponies around the pair only seemed to look confused. But behind their looks of confusion, the ponies were just marveling at the fact that there was another Digimon from another world in their town, but this newcomer looked just like an alicorn-sized pony, decked out in golden armor. Twilight herself especially was absolutely blown away by how this large equine Digimon looked, he was certainly unlike any pony in Equestria and yet, he exuded a strange sense of familiarity. But the unicorn’s fascination shifted to one of concern as she heard the two Digimon continue to talk to each other, particularly about the events that Pegasusmon took part of.

“So the dark factions are even stretching their influences past the eastern borders that they’ve taken control of, and are even striking at forbidden and sacred sites.” Blaze said more to himself, but Pegasusmon nodded to the assumption all the same, before divulging into more details of the events that he took part of.

“Yes. It was a grueling battle Flamedramon. We spent hours in fighting off the swarm of Devidramon while trying to keep the ruins they were guarding safe, in the end we managed to hold our own against the Devidramon as they were uncoordinated, and our maneuverability gave us the edge.” The equine Digimon’s demeanor then shifted to one of great dread as he continued on.

“But when the NeoDevimon eventually decided to take part in the battle…” a full body shutter ran down the armored equines back and down his legs, while his wings ruffled nervously. “It was a veritable bloodbath when he joined in, cutting down our forces with ease while we barely did any manner of harm to him. But even when he put himself into the melee, we managed to defeat all the Devidramon while only losing a small portion of our own force, but…”

“In the end the NeoDevimon defeated you all, and was the one that used that data sphere on you right?” Pegasusmon nodded to Blaze’s assumption about the final conclusion of the battle was.

“He was going to use it on Firamon as he wasn’t backing down, and was trying his best to defeat the Ultimate, but when he went to use the data sphere I jumped in before it collided with Firamon. Then the next thing I knew I was in the middle of a wasteland after waking up feeling horrible pain that coursed through me.”

“I then spent the next few days just flying around, and wondering where it is I was transported to.”

“Well, I’m just glad that you’re in one piece my friend.” Blaze said as he places a claw on the pegasus Digimon’s whither, and giving Pegasusmon a comforting smile who seemed to have done the same, even if his helmet was blocking his facial expression.

“Same to you my friend.”

“Um excuse me Blaze?” the two Digimon turned to look down to Twilight, who was looking up to the pair with an intrigued look, which was shared by the other ponies that were gathered around them.

“Is this a friend of yours from your world?” the mare asked to the bipedal Digimon, who just nodded his head as he gestured to the armored equine.

“That’s correct Twilight. This is one of my fellow crusaders in the venture of bringing back peace to the Digital World.” the armored equine took a step closer and introduced himself formally to both Twilight and the crowd as they look upon him.

“My name is Pegasusmon, the Flying Hope.”

Chapter 6: City In The Sky

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A few days have gone by since Blaze’s fellow comrade in arms, Pegasusmon, came to Ponyville due to the same circumstances that befell upon Blaze. And like his fellow Armor Digimon, Pegasusmon was given a nickname by Pinkie Pie, which was Bullion, as a complement to his astounding golden armor, not only that but the winged Digimon was also given a place to rest in Ponyville like Blaze. Although unlike the dragon-like Digimon, Bullion didn’t stay at the library with Twilight and him, instead he was offered a place to stay down at Sweet Apple Acers, courtesy of Applejack. So long as the tall pegasus helps out around the farm, which the winged Digimon was more than happy to do so.

Then during the following day Bullion was taken to Canterlot to visit princess Celestia, though this time both Digimon were able to meet the other princess that governs the land, and both of them were astonished to meet the tall pegasus Digimon. As well as learn that he shares the same origin as his fellow fire-armored Digimon comrade. Since then the two Digimon have been residing in Ponyville, just enjoying a nice peaceful life while they figure out what they should do for the rest of their lives, as they were no longer wandering warriors that fought invading or darken forces. But as they spend time in Ponyville, amongst the ponies that live in the town, the more that they both started feel a little out of place. Bullion most of which as he has yet to acclimate fully to how peaceful this world was compared to theirs. Yet they were aided by Twilight and her friends in that things would work out for them, and that they will find their place in this new world they found themselves in.

Since then the two Armor Digimon were contemplating, and discussing amongst themselves about what they should do. As of right now neither of them were doing much, aside from aiding their current caretakers with chores around their living spaces, resting and enjoying the peace of the town, and of course eating whenever they were hungry. Right now, the two felt as if they weren’t anything more than simple free-loaders who don’t really have any idea, or anything that they could do that would seem meaningful. While the peace they enjoyed was soothing for them, it also started to make them see that aside from fighting there wasn’t much that they knew how to do.

~~Present~~

At the moment Bullion was flying in the skies by himself just outside of Ponyville’s town boarder, and was simply exploring the surrounding areas to see what it is he could discover, as well as visit. So far Bullion has discovered a few locations that were quite interesting within the area, one of which was a great gorge that was a mile or so from town, which had strange eel-like creatures living within the gorge. Who attempted to eat him when Bullion was flying around then through the vast rocky terrain, although the creatures were fairly weak and easy to overpower. Bullion didn’t even have to use his more powerful techniques to make the eels retreat. The other location that Bullion found was a forest that was just a short walk from the town, and when he ventured through the woods he had encountered even more unusual creatures, ranging from a chimera, wolves made out of foliage, even a crocodile that appeared to be comprised of nothing but rocks.

After exploring the forest and encountering its strange creatures, and even meeting a rather charming rhyming zebra, the winged Digimon decided to make his way back to town. But along the way Bullion spotted two of his new friends, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, flying from town and was heading northward, curious as to where his fellow flyers were going Bullion decided to fly after them.

“Rainbow Dash! Fluttershy!” Bullion called out as he closed in on the pair, who stopped and looked towards the Digimon with a look of surprise.

“Hey there Bullion, what are you doing all the way out here?” Rainbow Dash asked as the three flying equines hovered in mid-air as they spoke.

“I was exploring the areas around the town, and I just finished venturing through the forest over there.” Bullion remarked as he pointed to the forest in question, which the others looked at him with a startled expression. “After having a look at the forest I decided to head back to town, but then I saw you two flying off and was curious.”

“Oh well you see Bullion; Rainbow Dash and I are heading to Cloudsdale so that she could enter a flyers competition.” Fluttershy explained to the Armor Digimon.

“And what’s this Cloudsdale place you two are heading off to?”

“It’s the main pegasus city that flies around Equestria, and is the bulk head of all of our weather production.” Fluttershy continued on to explains before she looked off into the distance, and then points at something that when Bullion looked to where the mare was gesturing to, saw something like a very large clump of clouds with rainbows around it.

“And today Cloudsdale is hosting the competition that Fluttershy was mentioning, and if I win the competition I’ll be able to spend the rest of the day, WITH THE WONDERBOLTS!” the pegasus then bolted into the air and do a few loops as she whooped and excitedly cheered.

“Who are these Wonderbolts?” Bullion asked Fluttershy while Rainbow was still flying around.

“The Wonderbolts are the best aerial acrobatic team in all of Equestria, they do aerial performances and races for entertainment, and when they get challenged by other aerial teams that try to be just like them.”

“Not only that, but they’re also Equestria’s First Response Aerial Squad for Equestria’s army.” Rainbow Dash added as she zipped back down to the pair.

“Interesting.” Bullion retorted as he looked to the far off cloud city before turning back to the pair. “Would you mind if I accompany you two to the city, I’m starting to get curious about it.”

“I don’t mind. What about you Rainbow Dash?” Fluttershy asked her cyan friend who just gave an excitable grin.

“I’m cool with it, but we better hurry. I still need to sign up for the Young Flyers Competition.”

Rainbow Dash then started to fly off towards the city, with Fluttershy and Bullion flying off after her while Fluttershy also started to tell the Digimon more about the city. The trio made it to the city within around twenty minutes, and when they came upon it Bullion started to look around the city as the group made their way to the registration office. From the buildings to what would be the city streets and roads, everything that Bullion could see was virtually made out of clouds, even the pillars that looked to be made out of marble but were actually sculpted and more compacted clouds. One of the more eye catching things that Bullion spotted was a large building further out into the city, where he saw various rainbows arcing about and shown brightly, there were even more clouds be puffed out of a large funnel shaped structure. There were even some muffled crackle and booming sounds emanating from where the rainbows and clouds were being made, which further stirred the Digimon’s curiosity about the city and how it was able to produce the weather of an entire nation on mass.

There was also another thing that Bullion found curious, and that was that all of the pegasi around the city were walking about on the clouds like they would if they were on the ground. Even Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were walking around when they landed in front of a building that Rainbow entered. The city started to remind the Armor Digimon of the Cloud Servers, where Digimon were also able to walk around on the clouds. Taking the chance Bullion also touched down onto the cloud, and was surprised to find that he to was able to stand on the wispy surfaces, but unlike the ones from the Cloud Servers these clouds were more clumpy and poofy, like very fluffy pillows, while as the ones of the Cloud Server felt a bit more solid underneath the thin veil of mist that congregated around them. Once the digital monster was standing on the clouds he started to notice that all of the nearby ponies were looking at him, all of whom were giving him the same expressions he’s been getting from the ponies in Ponyville. Slacked jaw and widen eyes as they looked at him, as well as the blushes adoring most of the mares faces that he could see.

“Alright! I’m all signed up!” Rainbow boasted as she exited the building.

“I’m glad were able to make it. When does the competition start?” Fluttershy inquired as Bullion continued to just look around the plaza they were in.

“The competition won’t be for a couple of hours; I just hope I can do the Sonic Rainboom this time.”

“What’s a Sonic Rainboom?” Bullion asked when his attention was brought back to the pair as they spoke about a unknown term that he hasn’t heard of.

“The Sonic Rainboom is a legendary pegasus skill that has a pegasus fly so fast, that they break the sound barrier, and their innate magic floods out of them and makes an incredible magical trail.” Fluttershy told Bullion before gesturing to her cyan friend. “And Rainbow Dash is one of the few pegasi that can pull it off.”

“Yeah but I was only able to do it when I was a filly, I uh, haven’t been able to do it again since.” Rainbow lamented as she pawed at the ground, scoffing a few bits of clouds as she appeared to a little disheartened. Bullion trotted over to the small mare and gave her a comforting nuzzle to the side, startling Rainbow for a moment but settled as the Digimon spoke up.

“Don’t be dishearten Rainbow Dash. Even if something seems out of reach, and are told by others that it is an impossible feat to reach and strive for, things that you dream of and believe in will always give you strength to push forward. Regardless if it seems impossible, if you continue to chase after your dreams with resolve and hope, you will achieve them.” The pegasus chuckled as she looked up to the large equine digital monster with a small grin.

“Thanks Bullion, I appreciate the pep talk.” The Digimon gave a small smile in return as the mare gave his foreleg a small bump, but as the two bonded a little they heard a slight gasp that made them look at their butterscotch friend that was standing next to them.

“Rare?” both Rainbow and Bullion heard Fluttershy randomly say with a tone of surprise in her voice, while staring at something behind the pair with an astonished look. And when both of them turned to look at what Fluttershy was looking at, they to were surprised at what they saw.

“Rarity!?” both mares blurted out in both amazement and confusion as they looked up to their white coated friend, who was fluttering nearby with a pair of large glossy looking butterfly wings, while Bullion just looked at the mare with a curious look. From what the ponies have told him and Blaze, the only ponies that had wings were pegasi and alicorns, so he was wondering how could a unicorn like Rarity have wings all of a sudden.

“But how did—where did—how in the world did you get wings? And what are you doing here?” Rainbow Dash asked her friend as she continued to look between the unicorn, and her glossy wings with a baffled expression.

“Marvelous aren’t they! Twilight gave them to me so that we could come up and give you a big cheering section.” Rarity said as she fluttered around the trio, where then they saw something coming up from the cloud bank. A large balloon emerged from the puffy white surface, and inside its basket Bullion and the others saw that the rest of their friends.

“Did you all come here to cheer Rainbow Dash on?” Fluttershy asked to the group as the hot air balloon ‘parked’ itself on the puffy surface after it fully emerged.

“We sure did!” Pinkie said as she bounced out of the basket, which caused the two pegasi to panic, but the moment the pink mare touched the cloudy terrain nothing happened. The others then started to emerge from the basket, and like the pink mare, none of them were passing through the clouds which only amazed the two pegasi even more.

“Check it out guys, we can walk on clouds now! Pretty neat huh?” Pinkie joyfully says as she started to cartwheel around the group.

“But how are all of you here, and standing on the clouds?” Bullion asked the group.

“Yeah, only pegasus ponies are able to stand and walk on clouds.” Rainbow said as she started to reel in her surprise emotions.

“Well I found a spell that would give non-pegasi the ability to fly for a few days, but it was really complicated that I was only able to cast it once.” Twilight elaborated as Rarity continued to flutter around the group as she continued on with her explanations. “But there was a far more simpler spell that allowed non-pegasi to walk on clouds.”

“So after Twilight did her little spell, we all came up here to cheer you to victory.” Applejack said to give her friend some comfort and encouragement.

“Thanks guys I really appreciate it.” Rainbow says graciously before an idea pops into her head.

“Hey! The competition doesn’t start for a while, how about Fluttershy and I show you around Cloudsdale.” The group of ponies excitably agreed to the tour, while the Digimon gave a more tamed response but were still interested in seeing this city in the sky.

For the next hour or so Rainbow & Fluttershy guided the others through their home city, showing the various districts and popular spots of Cloudsdale. And as the group traveled the wispy streets of the city, the group started to notice that they were garnering attention, mostly it was because of Rarity with her large wings, and the two Digimon that were traveling with them. Leaving the main city district the group then headed to the factory district, where the two pegasi started to show their friends the different departments of the factories operation, and seeing how this world’s aspects of weather are made and maintained. For the two Digimon they were greatly interested in what they were seeing, as they found the ponies actually generating the winds, thunderstorms, rain, and many other atmospheric conditions so fascinating.

Yet while the two Digimon were following their little friends, and learning a bit more about this world overall, and a bit about pegasi culture and their responsibility for creating and maintaining the weather they started to notice something. The two digital monsters started to notice that wherever they went, various ponies would pine and admire Rarity’s gossamer wings, and make a passing remark in how she should enter the flyers competition that Rainbow Dash was competing in. Which caused the rainbow maned mare in question to look, and become more worried and more disheartened as she started to mutter to herself on how she was starting to feel inadequate when compared to her white coated friend. Naturally, the cyan ponies friends consoled her in that she would do fine, but the more that Rarity continued to receive praise for her wings, the more that Rainbow Dash felt more uncertain about even competing. It also didn’t help that not only did Rarity not seem to notice her friends plight, but there were also some pegasi that seem to know Rainbow Dash and start belittling her, and telling her that whatever she has planned for the competition was basically meaningless.

It was hard for the Digimon to see the usually bombastic and confident pegasus look so shaken, and so deflated of her gumption that she was actually thinking of backing out of the event. Thankfully, the mare’s friends were able to reinvigorate her drive and encourage her to continue on in her plans. When the tour of the weather factory was over with the group made their way to the large stadium near the center of the city, where the Young Flyers Competition was being held and was already being filled with pegasi. All of which were roaring out in excitement as they waited for the event to officially begin.

“Are you girls sure that Rainbow will be alright?” Blaze asked the mares as he and the others sat down on their designated cloud bank that overlooked the vast stadium, which had no floor of any kind at its bottom.

“Ah hope so.” Applejack said as a sour expression took over her face. “Oh those stallions made me so mad, Ah was itching to knock them upside the head!”

“I know how you feel Applejack, but I’m a little more miffed with Rarity.” Twilight said as she scoffed and stamped a hoof on the cloud the group was sitting on. “It’s like she’s completely blinded to Rainbow’s own worries, that she is contributing to.”

“Well she was being gushed over because of her wings, and you know Rarity, she loves being the center of attention when the spotlight is on her.” Pinkie Pie said as she placed the foam hand with a number one on her hoof, while a pegasus stallion hops onto a lone cloud and started to announce that the competition is about to get underway.

“We’ll just have to wait and see if Rainbow’s usual confidence comes back to her as she starts her performance.” Bullion commented as he and the others watched as Celestia, and a group of pegasi wearing flight suits start making their way to the other side of the stadium.

“Are those the Wonderbolts that Rainbow Dash admires?”

“That’s right. She’s been trying to get into their group for years, and hoping to join their team.” Fluttershy explained as the first competitor emerges from behind a set of curtains, and begins their routine.

With the Young Flyers Competition well underway, the group watched one after another of various pegasi emerging from the curtains and perform their own routines, all of which the crowd cheered and jeered as the pegasi participants zipped and flown about. Most of which were showing off their speed, and their aerial maneuverability, while other ponies were showing off various tricks and acrobatic maneuvers that really wowed the crowd. And while all of the ponies performing thus far were indeed incredible, the group were mostly waiting for their friends to show up and show what their own performances were going to be like. Especially Rarity as she only decided to join the competition at the last minute, so they were curious as to what the winged unicorn would do. But as time went on the group has yet to see any of their friends coming out, and then showing what their own performances were, which was starting to make them worry if Rainbow dropped out, and if Rarity was brushed aside because she didn’t have anything to display.

“Alright everypony we’ve reached the finally of this years Young Flyers Competition, and we’re about to have our final competitor strut their stuff!” the announcer and showman of the event said which got the crowed excited, but the group was a little more concern as they were confused on which of their friends was about to come out and perform. “And for the first time ever…it’s a duo performance!”

“A duo performance?” Twilight and her three friends said in unison, while Blaze and Bullion looked at each other with a questioning look before turning back to the main area of the stadium, and saw Rainbow Dash timidly fly out who was then followed by Rarity. Who was dressed up in the most flashiest and possibly most gawdy outfit the Digimon have ever seen.

“What in the world is Rarity wearing?” Applejack asked as she and the others watched their friends start off doing their duo performance, which was a combination of an aerial fly relay by Rainbow Dash, while Rarity was doing some kind of aerial ballet.

“I’m not sure but that looks like something you’d wear at a flashy festival or something.” Pinkie Pie commented as she watched her friends go about their individual stunts, before they all winced when Rainbow Dash screws up on a trick and slams into the stadium wall. “OH! That’s going to leave a mark.”

“I’m more worried if she’ll be able to get through her entire routine.” Fluttershy said worriedly as she and the others watched as their rainbow maned friend went back to doing her routine, where she started to fly up to a collection of clouds and started to fly around them, causing the clouds to be spin around like tops.

The duo performances continued on for a bit, and while Rarity’s ballet dance was going pretty well, Rainbow Dash however was still making little mistakes that tripped her up. As well as cause the pegasus to either slam into something, or cause part of her routine to go out of control. Like causing one of the clouds she was using to skew out of control while it was spinning, and nearly crashing into the princess. A few more minutes have gone by since the pair have started their duel performance, and by this time they appeared to be reaching their climax, with both mares flying high up into the air.

“This is it!” Fluttershy says excitedly as she claps her hooves together. “Rainbow is going to try and do the Sonic Rainboom!”

“Do you think she’ll be able to do it?” Blaze asked as he watched the two ponies continue to climb higher and higher into the air.

“We can only hope.” Bullion responded as the group watched as the mares reached the preferred height that they were striving for.

While Rainbow Dash continued to climb higher into the air, everyone watched as Rarity reached her desired spot in the sky and then spread her wings out wide, which caused the light of the sun to shine through them and cause a cascade of brilliant colors to shine down upon the entire stadium. But then everyone watched as the mares butterfly wings just, burst into flames, and left the mare to start falling out of the sky! As Rarity was plummeting out of the sky everyone gasped and screamed in horror, the Wonderbolts dived off their own cloud balcony and raced towards Rarity to save her. But everyone watched as they were knocked out by Rarity’s flailing limbs, rather easily to boot. Yet while the Wonderbolts were knocked out, everyone watched as Rainbow Dash zoomed down from where she was and race to help her friend and idols.

However before the mare reached the stadium both Blaze and Bullion lept off and free fall to the group while dawning their armor. As the two Digimon raced towards the group of ponies Bullion tightened his dive to increase his speed, while Blaze created bursts of flames from his gauntlets that caused him to literally rocket to the ponies. When they were close enough to the group they both then zipped around the ponies, gathering them up with Bullion scooping two of the Wonderbolts up onto his back, while Blaze darted about and grabbed Rarity and the third Wonderbolt. Once the ponies were gathered up Bullion quickly spun around and flew back up to the stadium, with Blaze following behind him as he kept creating explosive fiery burst from his feet, keeping pace with his winged companion.

The two Armor Digimon eventually re-entered the stadium where they were met with a medical team, who took the Wonderbolts to a nearby balcony to check how they were doing, while Rarity was placed in the basket of the hot air balloon that Twilight teleported into the stadium. As ponies were being taken care of and ensured that they were alright, the rest of the crowd in the stadium started to openly cheer for the rescue of Rarity, and the Wonderbolts.

“That was totally amazing!” Pinkie Pie blurted as she jumped towards the two Digimon, being caught by Blaze where she then reached up to wrap a foreleg around his neck and one around Bullion. “The way that you two just dive out of the stadium, and raced towards everypony and rescued them, was AWESOME!”

“It wasn’t anything that noteworthy.” Blaze stated as he placed the pink mare down.

“Indeed, we’d did rescues like these countless times back home.” Bullion added as he stood amongst the smaller ponies.

“Whether it was noteworthy or not—” the group heard princess Celestia speak as they turned to see her hovering down to them. “You still saved my little ponies from certain doom, and for that you have my thanks.”

“Ours to.” the group turned to face the owner of the new voice and saw the Wonderbolts recovered, and standing before the group. “On behalf of the Wonderbolts we thank you for saving our lives as well.”

The two Digimon accepted the thanks from both the princess and the Wonderbolts, and once everything was settled and everyone was confirmed to be alright, the competition went on with Rainbow Dash re-doing her entire routine. Which the mare was happy to, but as she left the two Digimon could’ve sworn that they saw a slight frown on the mare’s face, hopefully this whole minor scare didn’t throw the mare too much.

the Fire of Courage

by NinjaMare

Prologue: A New Arrival to Equestria. [Edited]

Chapter 1: the Journey of Flamedramon Begins [Edited]

Chapter 2: A Day in Ponyville [Edited]

Chapter 3: A Meeting with Royalty and a Challenge [Edited]

Chapter 4: Flamedramon vs. Shining Armor [Edited]

Chapter 5: An Ally of Courage Arrives [Edited]

Chapter 6: City In The Sky