Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The Ashen Lands - The Digital World

The heart of Ashen Ravine is far from being known as one of the Digital World’s most beautiful locations. Thick plumes of smoke billowing from the vents that lined the landscape allowed even the deepest streams of molten lava to be seen from high above. The temperature of the wind and even that of the ground itself could burn any and all who are woefully unprepared. 

A giant avian-like creature urged themselves forward, their red wings spread wide keeping their eyes focused on the enormous volcano upon the horizon. “I must be faster!”

Garudamon was far from being a stranger to these hostile conditions; in fact he was one of the few Digimon capable of thriving in such a place. But today, right now, he did not have the luxury of being able to enjoy the scenery. A great danger loomed on the horizon and if something was not done soon, it could very well spell the end of not just the Ashen Ravine but the entire digital world itself, maybe even beyond.

The avian Digimon's eyes narrowed and their bright red wings began to glow with intensity. “WING BLADE!”

An avatar of flame burst forward from Garudamon’s body and flew through an erupting geyser granting them a few precious seconds which they used to continue straight on their path unimpeded. There was no time to slow down, no time to take a different path. The only way was through. 

“WING BLADE!” Garudamon sliced through another geyser that impeded their path followed by another shortly thereafter. 

Garudamon was close now, so very close. The colossal Mount Ignis towered over him and he could see lava falling from an opening at its side. That was his way in, above the lava he flew, following into the heart of the volcano. 

‘This heat… It's… unimaginable… It might even be too much for me,’ Garudamon thought as his eyes scanned the magma pool below. ‘Even so, I must…’ 

“My Lord!” Garudamon shouted as he began his descent. “I bring you word from Pajiramon! I must speak with you at once!”

“Then you must speak,” a deep voice reverberated throughout the cavern. 

Mount Ignis began to rumble and the magma began to swirl and rise as Garudamon came to a stop. 

“Well… I am waiting. Tell me, Garudamon. Why did my Deva send you?”

Nakano  - Nagano Prefecture

Three Weeks Later...

“STRIKE!”

Mitsuru grit his teeth when the umpire made their call. The teenage boy had only one chance left to hit the ball and make it to a base. His team was two points down with only one batter left after his turn was taken. Another teammate was already on second base. He had to hit this pitch or his team would lose. 

‘Stay focused,’ the young teen exhaled as the pitcher wound up their throw. ‘Watch the ball,’ His grip on the bat tightened. ‘NOW!’

A loud Crack! echoed through the air and the ball rocketed into the air. The bat dropped from Mitsuru's hand and the boy sprinted towards first base. All he had to do was touch it before the ball. It was simple really; he just had to run.

“YOU’RE OUT!” 

“Damn,” Mitsuru cursed and came to a stop. Exhaling in disappointment, he turned to move off the diamond as his teammate stepped up to bat.

“Sorry,” the brown-haired teen apologized, taking a seat to watch alongside the rest of his team. “I wasn’t fast enough.”

“Chin up, we’ll get them next time,” Kousuke petted his shoulder. “We have three more games until finals. We just have to win two of them. Besides,” the team shot to their feet, erupting with applause when their teammate scored a homerun. “We have Tanaka!” 

The umpire blew their whistle when the boy in question returned to home-base. Spectators began to applaud and the announcer declared the final results through the P.A speaker. 

“Must be a blessing to be that tall,” Mitsuru laughed, a little jealous. “Are we sure he’s our age?”

“Certain of it,” Kousuke replied as Tanaka ran by, high-fiving everyone who held their hand out for one. “Fuyuka’s friend shares a homeroom with him.”

“Alright, alright, settle down,” Nishiyama-sensei, their coach, called the team to attention. “You all played a good game out there You should be proud,” he paused as the team began to congratulate each other.

“However,” Nishiyama interrupted a few seconds later. “There is still plenty of room to improve. Hioshi,” he faced one of the boys. “I’m only seeing fastballs from you. You need to change it up and keep the opposing batters guessing. You could learn a thing or two from Kazami in that regard.”

“Yes, coach…” Hioshi’s face soured at the advice but he nodded his head nonetheless. 

“Kazami,” Nishiyama turned the brown-haired teen. “Your pitching is great but you’re still swinging too late; you need to work on your timing. I’ll be pairing you and Hioshi up during training starting this week.”

“Yes sir,” Mitsuru shared the other boy’s frown as the pair looked away from each other.

“Tachikawa, Unagi, you two need to spread out more when fielding. You’re leaving the infielders without support,” the coach took a breath. “The rest of you, keep working hard. Season finals are right around the corner and I smell a victory this year. Do you?”

“Yes Coach,” the team said in unison. 

“What was that?” 

“YES, COACH!”

“I can’t hear you!” He put a hand to his ear. 

“YES COACH, NISHIYAMA!”  

“Much better!” Nishiyama chuckled. “For now, hit the showers! We’ll finish our debrief afterwards.”

“YES COACH!”

“Hey Kazami!” Kousuke called upon seeing him step out of the locker room.

“Oh, hey,” The brown-haired teen made his way over, stepping around a couple of teammates. “Are we still good to see this movie?”

“Of course we are!” Kousuke beamed as the two walked together. “I wouldn’t miss a chance to hang with my best bud!”

“I’m glad,” Mitsuru replied as the two made their way out of the grounds. “But we best hurry, we only have an hour until it starts.”

“More if we want to skip the previews,” Unabara grinned. “Although, if you’re that worried then I guess we can speed it up a little.”

“I’m not worr-”

“Last one there buys the popcorn!” Kousuke yelled as he broke into a sprint.

“Kousuke! Gah!” Mitsuru groaned as he gave chase. “Slow down!”

“You said we should hurry, right?!” The other boy chuckled as he looked back.

“This wasn’t what I meant!” Mitsuru gave chase. 

“Look at it this way!” Kousuke called. “The earlier we get there the better our chances at getting good seats!”

“That’s not the- Tree!”

“What about a t- Agh!” Kousuke cried out as he bounced off the plant’s trunk and landed on the ground with a heavy thud. 

“Kousuke!” Mitsuru ran to his friend’s side. “Are you okay? That looked bad!”

“I’m fine, no problem here,” Kousuke tried to dismiss with a chuckle only for his face to scrunch up when his head began to pound. “Ugh… I think...”

“H-Hey, take it easy for a couple of minutes,” Mitsuru protested when he tried to stand. 

“Ugh… fine,” Kousuke conceded and laid back. “At least the ground’s nice and warm.”

“Are you sure you're okay?” Mitsuru asked again. “I can get you some water, or maybe something to help with the pain?”

“Don’t worry, I’m fine. Just need a couple of minutes,” Kousuke dismissed. “Thanks man.”

“For what?”

“For watching out for me,” Kousuke chuckled tiredly. “What else?”

“You’re welcome,” Mitsuru said and took a seat just off the sidewalk. “But please don’t do that again?”

“No promises,” Kousuke replied and Mitsuru reluctantly accepted before he changed the topic. “So, are you planning on going anywhere this winter break?”

“Naomi and I talked about spending a few days in Tokyo when she comes home,” Mitsuru replied and shook his head. “But that depends on everyone else too. Still not sure if Mom or Dad would allow it though.”

“Oh yeah… I can see that,” Kousuke said. “Didn’t she go to the United States with that boyfriend of hers?”

“And Reiji just moved to Australia,” Mitsuru added with a nod. “Not exactly easy for us all to get together these days.” 

“Bummer. Was kinda hoping to meet ‘em sometime. So, when’s your sister coming home?”

“What are you guys doing down there?” A voice interrupted and the teens looked up to see Tanaka looking down at them.

“Just hanging around,” Kousuke answered.

“Kousuke ran into a tree. He’s resting,” Mitsuru corrected.

“Dude!”

“You’re not hurt are you?” Tanaka asked in concern. 

“Nah, I’m fine. Don’t worry about it,” Kousuke dismissed. “Did you get stuck with cleaning our gear again?”

“Yeah,” Tanaka sighed, setting down a heavy-looking bag. “No one wanted to take them so Nishiyama just gave them to me.”

“Ahh bummer, dude.”

“I know right. Which way were you guys heading?” 

“To the theatre,” Kousuke answered. “Ronin and Sage IV just came out a few days back.”

“They’re still making those?” Tanaka said. “I thought people hated them. I remember hearing the second one sucked.”

“They’re good movies,” Mitsuru interjected. “People just don’t understand the story.”

“I never found it that difficult to follow,” Kousuke said. “A dishonoured warrior comes across an old dude living by himself and they set off to search for the guy’s master, right?”

“I mean, yeah. But it’s more than that, you know,” Mitsuru said. “Both of them experienced losing someone close to them but now they’re determined to move forward. I think that there’s something nice about that.”

“I see…” Tanaka said. “It sounds a little generic if you ask me.”

“Believe me, I thought so too at first,” Unabara said before having an idea. “Hey, why don’t you come and see it with us?”

“Like right now?” Tanaka asked in surprise, looking between the pair. 

“Yeah, when else?” Kousuke said. “The more the merrier, right Kazami?”

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

The teen’s eyes widened and before he could even think about answering the question he was already digging through his bag.

“Dude, that is the worst ringtone ever!” Unabara yelled over the alarm, covering his ears with his hands. 

“It’s not my phone,” Mitsuru replied, pulling a square-shaped device from the front pocket and began to fiddle with it. ‘It hasn’t made a sound in years. Did something happen in the Digital World?’

“What is that thing?” Tanaka asked, bending down to look. “Is that a Tamogatchi?”

“Hey, that’s- Huh?” Kousuke asked only to be cut off when Mitsuru suddenly stood up. 

“I’m sorry guys. You should go and see Ronin and Sage without me,” Without another word, the brown-haired teen bolted down the street.

“H-Hey! Kazami!” Unabara yelled after him. 

Mitsuru ducked and weaved through people on the street, one eye on the blaring device in his palm, one eye on the direction he was heading. Dogs barked from the other side of the fences he passed by and people stopped in their tracks to stare or block their ears as he pushed by any and all in way. “Come on,” The brown-haired teen's eyes darted around. “Which way is i- There,” he veered left, following the street around as nearby traffic lights lit up in all colors and televisions in nearby corner windows began to go staticky.

“Kazami! Wait up!” Kousuke yelled from behind him as he and Tanaka pursued. “Where are you going!?”

Suddenly, the boy came to a stop, prompting his friends to do the same. 

“W-Why all the running?” Tanaka panted deeply. 

“What are you guys doing here?” Mitsuru's eyes widened as he turned to face them. “You need to leave, now.”

Why'd you run off, man?” Unabara asked. “That's not like you.” 

“There isn't time to explain. You need to leave,” Mitsuru held up the still blaring device. “A gate is about to open right here.”

“What do you mean by ‘a gate’ is about to open?” Tanaka asked. “What are you talking about?”

“Don't tell me…” Kousuke uttered and Mitsuru nodded. 

“Yeah, so leave before it gets here.” 

“What are you guys talking about?” Tanaka asked, not following at all.

Power lines began to spark, the electricity bouncing off the surrounding buildings as car horns sounded as they skidded to a stop. The air began to grow warmer and people turned to flee as the sky began to crack as if it were made of glass. 

“A Digimon is coming,” Mitsuru said, watching as the crack spread, becoming wider and wider. 

“Digimon?” Tanaka repeated. “Wait! Those monsters that attacked five years ago!?” 

“Yeah… One of them,” Mitsuru said as the air shattered and in its place was a glowing sphere with a growing shadow at the center. “It's about to emerge. Get out of here!” 

“You can’t face it alone man,” Kousuke spoke up. “That buddy of yours ain’t here!”

“I’ll manage,” Mitsuru replied, turning away from them and towards the gate. “ Go! ”

“No way,” Unabara stepped forward, placing a hand on Mitsuru's shoulder as he looked upward at the swirling gate. “I’ve got your back, bud.”

“Y-Yeah,” Tanaka added, though he stayed in place. “W-What he said. We’re not going anywhere.”

“It's too dan-” Mitsuru began, only for Kousuke to grin at him. “Fine… Just be ready to lead it out of town when it sees us.”

“Count on it!” Kousuke said as the gate began to fluctuate and distort as the shadow pressed against it. 

A red claw-like appendage pierced through as it began to emerge, followed by another along with an insect-like head with two large green eyes.

“I’ve almost made it through. Now just to- AHHH!” The Digimon cried as it fell out and hit the pavement. “Ouch! I forgot how much sidewalks hurt,” They complained, pulling themselves up and looking around. “Now to find- Oh humans, perfect! Uhh, hello there,” they greeted the trio, with a wave. “I’m looking for a friend of mine- You wouldn’t happen to know someone n-”

“Tentomon!” Mitsuru darted forward and embraced the Digimon. “You’re not hurt, are you?”

“Mitsuru!” Tentomon’s eyes lit up and held the hug for a moment before they parted. “Oh my goodness, you’ve grown! I cannot believe that I did not recognise you! I’m fine, really. Not even a scratch, see?” They gestured to themselves.

“I missed you so much,” Mitsuru said as his eyes began to water.

“And I, you,” Tentomon said. “You’re looking well. How have you been?”

“So uh,” Unabara interrupted, “we’re not going to be running for our lives?”

“Doesn't look like it,” Tanaka exhaled in relief.

“Oh, are these friends of yours?” Tentomon asked, pointing towards the other humans. 

“Yeah, they are,” Mitsuru wiped his tears and stood up. “Tentomon, these are Kousuke and Tanaka. Kousuke, Tanaka, this is my Digimon friend, Tentomon.”

“Pleased to meet you,” Tentomon lifted their claw in greeting. 

“You too!” Kousuke beamed as he walked over and bent down. “Mitsuru told me a lot about you. You're smaller than what I thought you'd be. The name’s Kousuke Unabara! But please, call me Kousuke” 

“A pleasure, Kousuke,” Tentomon said as they noticed Tanaka step back. “There’s no need to fret, I do not bite.” The tall teen took another step back. “Oh, you’re a bit skittish aren’t you?”

“What brings you here, Tentomon?” Mitsuru asked. “Did something happen in the Digital World?”

“Oh… I’m afraid so, old friend,” Tentomon said, turning back toward Mitsuru. “As much as we both would have loved a social visit, we are in quite a bit of trouble. I’m sorry, but there isn’t a lot of time to explain. Zhuqiaomon will do so when everyone arrives, but we must go now.”

“Zhuqiaomon?” Tanaka uttered.

“A very important Digimon,” Mitsuru did not look back as he answered. “I’m sorry guys but you should still see the movie without me.”

“Wait! You’re leaving just like that!?” Kousuke exclaimed in protest. “In that case, I’m coming with you then!”

“No, you’re not,” Mitsuru instantly shut him down.

“Why not!?”

“Because, it's not going to be fun and games,” Misturu replied as Tentomon's head turned between his partner and their friend. “This will be serious.”

“I know that,” Kousuke replied. “I saw it all on TV when that huge black bird appeared. If you’re facing something like that again no way I'm gonna just watch.”

“If you saw it on TV then you know why I won't let you,” Mitsuru argued, frowning slightly. “It’ll probably be very dangerous. I would hate it if something were to happen to you.”

“That's why I'm going,” Kousuke argued, his fists clenched in determination. “Friends are supposed to have each other's backs! That way, you can watch mine and I can watch yours!”

“The answer is ‘no!’” Mitsuru shot back.

“Both of you calm down!” Tanaka raised his voice at the pair and they turned to face him. 

“Now,” Tanaka took a moment to gather his thoughts. “Unabara is right, it would be wrong to allow you to go alone-” 

“Yes it would be!”

“-S-So… I'll go as well. If nothing more than to keep you guys safe.”

“I won’t let-” 

“We would be honoured to have you with us,” Tentomon interrupted, making his partner’s eyes go wide. 

“Tentomon!” Mitsuru exclaimed in protest. 

“I'm sorry, Mitsuru, but your friends are right,” Tentomon faced the pair. “My fellow digimon would be grateful to know there are humans like you who would be willing to help us.” 

“Anytime little dude,” Kousuke replied. “We're more than happy to lend a hand. Whatever you need, right Tanaka?”

“Y-Yeah, I might not be able to do much but I’ll help however I can,” Tanaka said. 

“Hold on a second,” Mitsuru began to protest, only to be ignored. 

“I’m glad,” Tentomon said. “You two can start by taking a couple of steps back and turning around.”

“Uh, okay,” Kousuke got up and walked towards Tanaka, facing away as instructed. “How will this help?”

“Well, it will make reopening the gate easier,” Tentomon answered. 

“I don’t see how, but alright,” Tanaka turned his back to them as well.

Several quiet moments passed without a sound, no indication that anything had happened. 

“So… Is it open yet?”  Kousuke asked only to receive no reply. 

“Unabara?” Tanaka blinked and turned around. “Uh… We have a bit of a problem.”

“What is it?” Kousuke asked, turning around too only to see nothing. The gate had closed and both Mitsuru and Tentomon were gone. 

“Oh come on!”

??? - ??? - ???

A bright light shone within the darkness, illuminating the dense foliage that surrounded its glow for just a moment before it dissipated, leaving the pair behind.

“Did it work?” Mitsuru blinked, taking a moment to allow his eyes to focus on their surroundings.

“I think so,” Tentomon replied, looking around. “Although, by the looks of things we are quite a ways away from-” The Digimon flew towards a nearby tree. “Uh, Mitsuru… Please correct me if I am making a mistake, but I do believe this kind of tree is found in your world, yes?”

“What makes you say that?” Mitsuru walked over to look. “The Digital World has trees.”

“It does,” Tentomon agreed. “Although none of them look like this. Also the Digital World’s forests are home to beings like Kuwagamon, not insects like that,” He extended his claw and Mitsuru stepped over to investigate. 

“I would not say insect exactly. It's a molted… cicada… shell…” Mitsuru's enthusiasm was replaced with realisation. “We’re still in the human world…”

“It appears so,” Tentomon agreed, concern in their voice as they watched their friend fiddle with their device. “But that doesn’t make any sense. The gate was supposed to take us right to the top of Mount Ignis. Zhuqiaomon himself opened it and then I came through to find you.”

“Do you think that something could have happened on the other side?” Mitsuru asked, holding his palm out. “That one closed as soon as we got here and my digivice isn’t showing another anywhere nearby.”

“Oh I really hope not,” Tentomon said. “With how his seal has been acting as of late this does not bode well.”

“His seal?” Mitsuru's eyes widened. “You don’t mean his seal do you?”

“... I am afraid so,” The insectoid replied, albeit reluctantly and with a hint of fear in their voice.

“Shit,” Mitsuru cursed under his breath and let his bag fall from his back so he could rummage through it. “As much as I want to ask, we really need to meet up with the others. Let’s hope someone hasn’t gone through yet.” Pulling out his phone Mitsuru dialled a number.

Instead of a dial tone the phone’s AI spoke. “All services are currently unavailable. Please try again later.”

“That’s not right…?” Mitsuru blinked and tried the number again. “C’mon, Naomi, pick up…”

“All services are currently unavailable. Please try again later,” The automated message repeated. 

“Okay, what about Jun?” Mitsuru dialled another number only to be met with the same message again.

“Perhaps we are in a bad area?” Tentomon said.

“Maybe?” Mitsuru said before his posture slumped. “Must be, there’s no signal.” He pocketed the cellular device.

“So, what will we do now?” The Digimon asked, looking around

“Let's try to figure out where we are before deciding that,” Mitsuru replied. “Can you still digivolve?”

“I have been unable to ever since we went our separate ways,” Tentomon confessed. “But, now that we’re back together again I should be able to once more.”

“Then once we know that, we should head straight to Kyoto and open a gate there. Does Taomon still cross over? I haven't been there since you guys left.” Mitsuru asked.

“He does,” Tentomon nodded. “Ahh, I wish I could show you a couple of the trinkets he’s brought back. They’ve really livened up my tree house.”

“Then let’s make time for it once this is all over,” Mitsuru said. “Hopefully we won’t miss the others if he’s there.”

“Now that sounds like a plan,” Tentomon agreed, beating their wings and began moving towards the treetops. “I shall find us a direction to head. Be back in a minute!” they called before vanishing through the canopy.

“This was not how I pictured today going at all,” Mitsuru exhaled and went back to fidgeting with his Digivice. “Nothing on the radar, no other Digivices in range either. I had a feeling it would be a long shot,” his gaze turned back to where the gate had once been. “I’m sorry, guys… Please forgive me.”

“Mitsuru!” Tentomon called as he descended through the treetops a few moments later. 

“See anything?” Mitsuru asked.

“I saw plenty of trees,” Tentomon replied and turned to point southward. “But, I also saw what looked like a human city not too far from here in that direction.

“Then, we’ll head there,” Mitsuru nodded. “Thank you, Tentomon.”

“It's no problem,” Tentomon replied as the two began to move. “... Mitsuru?”

“Yeah? What’s up?”

“You made some good friends while I was gone.”

“Yeah… I did,” Mitsuru gave a small smile.

Their journey south did not take that long all things considered, only lasting just over a couple of hours on foot and whilst it may have been easier to fly into town the pair agreed that they did not want to cause a scene. By the time they had arrived the sun had already set and street lights had turned on, illuminating the streets along with the lights coming from nearby businesses and the occasional passing vehicle. 

“Let's go over it one more time,” Mitsuru said as the pair made their way down the sidewalk. 

“If anyone asks, my name is Daiki Kazami and I’m your younger brother,” Tentomon said, having taken to wearing his friend's baseball hat and uniform as a disguise. “Oh, and we were at the park playing ball and lost track of the time.”

“P-Perfect,” Mitsuru panted as he looked around. “I still have no clue where we are though.”

“Does Esuha City really mean nothing to you?” Tentomon asked, recalling the name from a sign they had seen along the way. 

“It doesn’t,” Mitsuru answered, shaking his head. “Never heard of a city with that name before. But we’re still in Japan, that sign was written in Kanji.”

“I see,” Tentomon said. “Has your digivice been able to find anything yet?”

“Still nothing since we came out of Zhuqiaomon’s gate,” Mitsuru replied. “No signs of other gates opening, nor other digimon. Either way, I think we should be able to-”

“Mitsuru!” Tentomon rushed to catch the teen when he suddenly dropped. “A-Are you alright? Oh, please say something.”

“I-I’m fine,” Mitsuru panted as he was helped to the ground. “Just a little tired. W-We should look for a map and then head off. We need to meet with the others.”

“Oh…” Tentomon looked down the street. “Perhaps you should rest a bit first. I forget how easily worn out you humans get compared to us Digimon. That was quite a long walk.”

“I-I'll be fine,” Mitsuru said, trying to sound reassuring. “We can’t afford to rest now.”

“We can afford a bit of rest,” Tentomon replied. “If it means we make it there in one piece I don’t think the others will mind. Besides, I too would like a little break… and perhaps something to eat. It has been far too long since I’ve tasted human food.”

“Ugh… Okay, you win,” Mitsuru conceded with a sigh. “There has to be a convenience store around here somewhere. They should have maps too, I think. But we shouldn’t waste too much more time.”

“We have lost a lot of it, haven't we,” Tentomon stated as he helped his friend up. “Uh, okay. You know more about Japan than I. Which way should we try first?”

“Follow the main road. We should come across one sooner or lat-” 

BOOM!!!!

“-er,” Mitsuru's eyes widened and he and Tentomon turned their heads towards the source of the disturbance.

 “That was an explosion,” the insectoid said. “A loud one too. What do you think it is?”

“It's not a Digimon,” the brown-haired teen answered, looking confused, “the Digivice would have reacted if it were.”

“We should check it out anyway shouldn’t we?” 

“Yeah… It seems that food will have to wait,” he said and the pair shared a nod before setting off.

Esuha City - ??? - Japan

The location that the explosion originated from was only a few streets from where the pair started, but even so the closer they got the louder things became. Rumbles echoed through the streets and people screamed in terror whilst others shouted for help. 

Turning the corner, the pair found themselves confronted with quite the unusual sight. A large snake-like monster covered head to toe by tough-looking scales was bellowing out a roar whilst onlookers watched in awe as it kicked up a storm of dust. 

“What is that!?” Mituru's eyes widened in shock.

“I don’t know,” Tentomon said, equally shocked. “I know a few serpent digimon, but that guy looks more snake than ‘mon.”

“It looks kinda… human?” Mitsuru said with uncertainty. 

“Maybe a little-”

“Everyone! Keep back for your safety!” A loud voice yelled as the dust began to settle. 

Standing between the onlookers and the snake-like being was a large and round figure about half its size wearing black pants and a yellow hoodie.  He had his hands curled into fists as he stared down the creature. 

To his right was a much slimmer person with a purple carrier shirt and a white hood over his head who turned and moved towards the onlookers.

“Who’s that guy?” One bystander asked. 

“I think he’s Fat’s new sidekick,” Another answered. 

“Fat has a new sidekick!?” The first exclaimed in surprise. 

“Yeah! Let’s see what you can do, new guy!” A third yelled as the pair watched the man in yellow lean aside as the snake-like creature swiped at him. 

“Okay, I’m going to come out and say it; what is going on here?” The insectoid turned to his friend. 

“I have no idea. It looks like some kind of movie scene,” Mitsuru said, watching the figure approach them as they stretched their arms outward and several long tentacles burst out and latched themselves onto nearby buildings and street lights. 

“Tentacles!?” The teen and Digimon pair exclaimed in surprise, looking at each other with wide eyes.

“Fat Gum asked me to tell you all to stay back until the villain has been defeated! You’ll be safe if you stay behind these!” The white-hooded figure yelled and the onlookers fell silent.

“Yeah! New guy!” A woman yelled. 

“Thank you, new guy!” A man yelled too.

“We’ll be safe with him and Fat Gum to protect us!” The crowd erupted into cheers as the cloaked person seemingly shook and looked down.

“Is he okay…?” Mitsuru asked. 

“I’m not sure,” Tentomon said before noticing something. “Uh, Mitsuru… I don’t mean to alarm you, but look around.”

“What’s wrong now?” the teen asked but still did so anyway. 

That was when he saw it, well rather saw them. The people surrounding them looked human at a glance but it was quickly becoming apparent that something was amiss. A man to the left of him had a single eye in the middle of his forehead as well as spikes on each cheek. The woman beside him had large elongated ears and hair that seemed too close to being feather-like in consistency. On his right Mitsuru saw a woman with a sickly-yellow skin tone and what seemed to be eyeballs on her exposed shoulders and what he could see of her forearms. In fact everyone he looked at seemingly had a feature or several that made them look just a bit different to a human.

“I’ve got you now!” The man in yellow’s voice pierced through the air, the pair's attention back to the fight.

The teen and Digimon watched on in fascination as the man planted his feet, wrapping his arms around that of the snake-like one’s arm and with a single mighty heave threw them over his shoulder and into the road below his feet. A loud Boom! echoed throughout the surrounding area and the crowd erupted into applause as the large being laid on the ground defeated. 

“Yeah! Fat Gum’s the coolest!”

“That’s showing him, hero!”

“Hey, Fat! Stop by my place later! Your sidekick too! You both earned it!"

“... Tentomon,” Mitsuru uttered quietly, the scene reminding him of something from a comic book., “I don’t think we’re in my world anymore.”

Chapter Text

Esuha City - ??? - Japan

Night began to fall shortly after the villain's defeat and Mitsuru continued to feel like he was witnessing things that only took place in comic books. As bystanders continued to applaud the heroes, police officers arrived on the scene along with several heavily armoured guards who began to restrain the unconscious snake-like being.

“... I know we’ve established that we’re not from around here, but don’t those restraints seem a little excessive?” Tentomon asked quietly, looking back to watch as the two quickly left the scene to head back the way they had come from.

“Did you see the thing they were going to put over that human’s mouth?” The Digimon asked. “Actually, do you think he was even a human to begin with?”

“I think he was… maybe? Given how the people here look, perhaps?” Mitsuru answered with uncertainty in his voice as he looked back at the crowd. “Still, I’ve never seen the police use restraints like those before. I’d rather not see them being used again.”

“… Do you think someone could mistake me as being like him too?” Tentomon asked, worry in their voice causing Mitsuru to stop and turn back toward his friend.

“If they do, I’ll make sure they don’t harm you,” Mitsuru said, trying to sound reassuring. “I promise I will.”

“Thank you, Mitsuru. I promise that I’ll protect you as well,” Tentomon said in return. “Although… if it is okay, I do think we should leave this world before it comes to that.”

“You’re welcome,” Mitsuru said as the pair resumed walking and turned a corner shortly after. “And I agree… I do think I saw a convenience store when we were running.

“I sure hope so,” Tentomon said, glancing back uncertainly

 “…I also think just Digivolving and flying away is out of the question whilst people are around. Especially with what we just saw.”

“So we’ll be here awhile then,” Tentomon summarised.

“By the look of things,” Mitsuru sighed. “Unless we want to hike out of town again?”

“That would just be a waste of energy,” the insectoid agreed. “It wouldn’t help us either.”

"I hope Naomi and the others weren’t sent here also. But, if they did end up here finding them might be easy,” he glanced down toward his Digivice. “If they were in range, I mean. I hope they’re okay.”

"They will be, I'm certain," Tentomon reassured. "Tinkermon will have to had found her by now. The same goes for the others too. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if they had the same ideas as us. We might end up meeting them at the shrine."

"I hope you’re right," Mitsuru gave a smile to his partner. "Or we meet them along the way.”

"Well said," Tentomon spoke as he looked around once more. "Mitsuru, look!" They pointed down the street and towards a building, the sign on which reading 'J-Store.' "Right there! You did see one!"

"I was looking for a 7-11 or a Family Mart. But, this does look promising," Mitsuru admitted as they made their way inside.

Scanning the interior Mitsuru found the convenience store looked pretty ordinary compared to everything else he had seen thus far. A large counter stood on one side of the building and overlooked the rest of the store. There only seemed to be a few customers at the moment, each browsing through the tall shelves that lined the floor. Upon hearing the dinging of the door sensor the man at the counter bowed to the pair and Mitsuru returned the gesture as the pair made their way forward.  

“Did that human have an arm sticking out of his head or is it just me?” Tentomon whispered once the pair made their way behind a tall set of shelves.

“I saw it too,” Mitsuru whispered back as he looked at the contents of the shelves they passed by. “Let’s see here, phone chargers, toiletries, instant coffee, instant ramen, potato chips,” he came to a stop and took one off the shelf. “These ones looks like that hero we saw earlier,” he held it down to show.

“Well if he’s famous, why wouldn’t they use him for advertising?” Tentomon rationalised. “It does seem like the thing you humans would do. I mean, look at the guy on this one,” the Digimon held up a large bag from the bottom shelf. “He looks a bit scary if you ask me.”

“Jetburn Jalapeno,” Mitsuru read the label. “Kind of a strange name for chips, let alone flavour. Is he supposed to be a superhero as well?”

“It says here that this product is officially endorsed by the Endeavor Hero Agency, so I suppose so,” Tentomon read before placing them back on the shelf.

“I wonder if they’re common here then,” Mitsuru said as he browsed the section. “Every person on these seems to be wearing some kind of costume,” he picked up another bag to read. “Or in this one’s case a full body pair of jeans… I think.”

“I don’t think any of these would make for a good meal, regardless” Tentomon commented, tilting his head and looking around.

“Yeah, you’re right,” Mitsuru said putting the bag of ‘Best Barbeque’ back on the shelf as the pair continued down the aisle. “Brochures are usually kept near the magazines, if I recall,” he said as they reached the end of the aisle and made their way toward a line of fridges next to a hotbox. “Let’s get our food first and then head to that side of the store.”

“If it’s okay with you, I’ll leave the picking and choosing to the professionals,” Tentomon said as the pair stopped once more. “Don’t worry, I haven’t developed any allergies since we last saw each other. Oh, I cannot wait to try more human cuisine!”

“Just don't expect anything gourmet, but I’ll try to pick something good,” Mitsuru slipped his Digivice into his pocket and took out his wallet to look inside.  ‘I just need to make sure I can afford it…’ he thought as he took a couple of moments to count what yen he had.

“Excuse me,” A polite, if not slightly impatient, voice began from behind the pair, causing them to turn around to see a teen slightly taller teen with blonde hair looking at them. "You've been standing there for a bit, mind if I take a look inside?"

“U-Uh, sorry,” Mitsuru apologised as he and Tentomon stepped aside. “It’s all yours.”

“Thank you,” the other teen gave a brief smile before moving to browse.

‘He looks pretty normal,' Mitsuru thought.

‘I'm almost disappointed,’  Tentomon tilted his head. Neither dared to speak their thoughts out loud.

“You know, it's quite impolite to stare," the blonde teen said after a couple of moments of browsing. "Is there something troubling two of you?” he glanced back at them, only for a moment as the pair shook their heads.

“N-No, sorry,” Mitsuru apologised before they both turned his attention to looking in the hotbox and pulled out a container to look at.

 “Let’s see… Cooked this morning…” Mitsuru put it back and tried for another. “This looks good but might not be filling. What do you feel like eating, Tento- Daiki?” he caught himself.

“Daiki- Oh right- Um... Have they got anything with vegetables in it?” Tentomon replied.

 “I see a couple of rice bowls with some peas and carrots,” Mitsuru picked one up to inspect. “They look like they’ve been here awhile though.”

“Is that really the worst thing right now?” Tentomon asked.

“I guess not,” Mitsuru replied.

“You know," the blonde-haired teen begun once more, holding a few drinks and sandwiches in their arms. "I've heard this particular J-Store rotates it's food constantly. If you're looking for something fresh, I'd think about checking the third fridge down," he tilted his head back before making his way toward the front of the store.

“Uh… Thank you!” Mitsuru called after her before looking toward his friend. “So, what do you think?”

“I think that you’re overthinking things,” Tentomon said. “Are you managing okay? I know that I sprung a lot on you back in your world.”

“I’m fine,” Mitsuru let out a sigh, deciding to keep the bento boxes he had and grabbed a couple bottles of water. “But, I’ll be better when we see Naomi and the others. Come on, let’s take a look at those maps,” and with that he began to move toward the front of the store.

As the pair moved toward the storefront, Mitsuru made a beeline for the magazine stands and started scanning each row one by one until he found what he was looking for.

“Ahh, found one… I think,” Mitsuru began to read the label. “Esuha and the surrounding Osaka region.” His expression lit up, finally some good news. “We’re in Osaka. Tentomo.- Uh, Daiki we’re in Osaka!”

“I think it defeats the purpose of a false name if you say most of it before correcting yourself,” Tentomon whispered. “But more importantly, what’s an Osaka?”

“It’s the name of a prefecture, in the Kansai region,” Mitsuru explained quickly. “We’re near where we need to be, much closer than I would have guessed we were. I’ll show you in a moment, for now I think we’ve got everything.”

“Oh finally, some good news,” Tentomon commented as the pair made their way to the counter.

“Ahh, good afternoon. I trust that you found everything you’re looking for,” the man working it greeted as Mitsuru began placing down his purchases.

“We did, thanks,” the teen said as he retrieved his wallet to pay.

“This a very nice store you have,” Tentomon added, watching as the arm atop the man’s head stretched to pick up the scanner.

“Why, thank you,” the man smiled down at him before looking to Mitsuru once the last item had been rung up. “Your total is ¥2950. How will you be paying today?” he asked before seeing the teen pulling out some coins and setting them on the counter.

Scooping up the coins the man smiled as he began to count them, only to pause for a second and look at the coins. With a blinked, he picked one up to inspect closely whilst his customers watched on.

“Is something the matter…?” Mitsuru asked, a little nervously.

“Oh, no. Not at all,” the man looked up before smiling at the pair. “Your coins are just very old. I’m just surprised to see that someone so young has these,” he explained, the arm atop his head making a thumb. “But everything does seem to be in order here. Thank you for your business,” he bowed his head once more. “Do come again.”

“Thank you,” Mitsuru said as he gathered his purchases before he and Tentomon made their way outside.

“What a nice guy,” Tentomon commented as the doors closed behind them.

“Yeah, though I was nervous there for a second,” Mitsuru said as he scanned their surroundings and moved toward a bench set near the entrance. “I thought he wouldn’t accept my money.”

“Well, it’s not worth worrying about now, is it?” Tentomon said as the pair took a seat.

“I suppose you’re right,” Mitsuru agreed as he opened one of the bento boxes and set it down. “Why don’t you go eat without me? Osaka’s a good start but I’d still like to know which way to go.”

“Oh, that’s quite alright,” Tentomon placed the lid back on. “I’m more than happy to wait until you’re done.”

“You should eat it whilst it’s hot, it’ll taste better,” Mitsuru said as he unfolded the map to begin reading.

“But yours will go cold if you wait,” the Digimon said. “Besides, if you’re not hungry, I’d rather wait. You once said that bento tastes better when it’s shared with people you like.”

“Did I really say that?” Mitsuru asked.

“You did,” Tentomon nodded. “It was just after we met, you shared your lunch with me. Although that one was cold, not warm.”

“… I think I remember now,” Mitsuru said after a couple moments and put the amp away. “Okay, fine. You win, we’ll eat.”

Esuha City - Osaka Prefecture – Japan

Despite having found himself in another world, Utsubo Park was a location familiar to Misturu. As he and Tentomon made their way through the gardens the teen found it quite easy to navigate, having memories of coming here during a vacation back in his world. Countless rose bushes lined a winding path through the gardens as lights began to flicker on around the pair. Much of it was familiar and whilst it had been some time, one thing was clear to him.

“It’s almost the same,” Mitsuru said and pointed toward a miniature sculpture of a towering castle surrounded by short walls. “See that cherry blossom tree? Back in my world, it was in the exact same spot where I was here... uh, I mean there, last.”

“Well, if we needed further proof that this world is almost the same as yours, there it is,” Tentomon said, slumping slightly. “I’m sorry, Mitsuru. I wish I could tell you just how we ended up here, but I really cannot wrap my head around it.”

“It’s alright,” Mitsuru reassured as he bent down to pet his friend’s head. “Why don’t you tell me what made you guys come and look for us? Maybe we can work it out from there?”

“Are you sure?” Tentomon asked. “It’s not going to be a pleasant story to hear.”

“I’m sure,” Mitsuru reassured. “I was going to find out anyway, wasn’t I?”

“I suppose you are right,” Tentomon conceded and nodded slowly. “Well then, it all started about a month ago…”

Cardinal Mound  – The Digital World – 30 Days Earlier

Dark clouds swirled upon the horizon as thunder boomed and a dark lightning arched through the sky. A cold breeze began to blow as through the clouds came a horde of winged beasts, their eyes glowing a deep red as their roars echoed from high above.

“Oh, not the Devidramon again!” Tinkermon yelled in exasperation. “Once in a while was fine, but now it’s starting to get really annoying!”

“Nah! I say let them come! My pincers will get rusty if I go awhile without crushing something!” Crabmon flashed their appendages, snapping them readily.

“You are such a muscle brain!”

“Actually, I’m shellfish!”

“It is getting rather constant,” Tentomon said before looking to the side. “Do you have any idea what they’re planning?”

“Not a clue. We never mobilised the Devidramon this way nor in this frequency. Not even they did back then,” Saberdramon said, eyes focused on the incoming horde. “I loathe to think what these attacks prelude.”

“They shall fall just like the rest,” Pajiramon, a sheep-faced Digimon, came to a stop in front of them, brandishing his crossbow as he glanced to his side. “Go on. Make the call.”

“ALL DIGIMON TO ARMS!” Mihiramon’s roar echoed throughout the Mound. “OUR ENEMY COMES BY AIR!”

As the sound died down, the cries of those who called Cardinal Mound their home stepped from their dwellings and prepared for battle.

“They’re back again, I see...”

“How many times do we have to teach them this lesson?”

“Too many to count…”

“Well I say bring them all on!” several Digimon spoke as they marched to join their comrades as red breams of energy began to rain from the horde.

“DEFEND THE SEAL!” Mihiramon roared and sprung into the air, leading the charge as other winged Digimon followed him into battle.

“Alright, guys! Let’s kick some butt!” Tinkermon yelled as she flew after the Deva.

“Save a few for me,” Tentomon commented as he flew after her.

“Allow me the first attack,” Saberdramon said, flying ahead of them, wings outstretched. “METEOR WING!”

Countless purple blazing feathers ripped from Saberdramon’s wings at were flung toward the incoming horde, striking several out of the sky.

“Let me at ‘em, Pigeon Feet!” Crabmon said, using his friend’s momentum to launch himself toward the closest Devidramon when they were in range. Tucking their limbs into themselves, the crustacean Digimon crashed into his target.

 “SCISSOR MAGIC!” Crabmon’s target wailed as his gargantuan pincer clamped onto its arm.

“NIGHTMARE PANDEMIC!” Tinkermon cried, swinging her jagged spear into another.

“SUPER SHOCKER!” Tentomon’s antennae rippled with sparks which burst forward into a Devidramon who attempted to swing at him.

“SOLO ROAR!” A Digimon by the name of Gryphonmon cried, unleashing a deafening sound from their maw, causing his foes to grip their ears as they fell from the air.

“WING CUTTER!” A swarm of serpent-like Airdramon cried, bladed spines of air bursting forth from their wings.

“WING BLADE!” Garudamon yelled, a crimson flame overflowing from their wings and striking his foes.

“TIGER WING BLADES!” Mihiramon roared, bladed wings spread wide as the beast-like Digimon flew through the horde, mowing the Devidramon down.

“Yee-Haw! Ground Unit, keep coverin’ our fliers! Let’s give our boys some breathin’ room!” A Digimon by the name of Deputymon ordered from atop their perch on the surface and drew his weapons. “JUSTICE BLASTER!”

“HYPER CANNON!” Missiles soared into the air, launched by a trio each known by the name of Tankmon.

“WIZARD BOLT!” Wizardmon chanted as lightning burst forward from their wand.

“CORONA FLAME!” A petite Digimon known by Coronamon yelled as flames erupted from their brow.

“AQUA BLASTER!” Shellmon yelled, unleashing a torrent of water from their maw.

“MASTER FIRE!” A gargantuan Digimon by the name of MasterTryannomon glowed with red intensity before unleashing a roar of crimson flame.

 “FIRE BREATH!” His subordinate troop of Tyrannomon followed suit, unleashing flames of their own.

“GOLD RUSH!” A bright yellow Digimon known as Digmon fired its drills high into the air.

Pajiramon stood atop their post and directed their crossbow from one target to the next, never pulling the trigger as he sought to understand the enemy’s plans. As more of Cardinal Mound’s Digimon joined the fray something did not add up to the centaur-like Digimon. Their enemies were falling quickly, too quickly for numbers such as theirs. It was like they had just spawned from their Digi-Eggs, they were not battle hardened at all. Suddenly, his arm shot back and he fired a shot into the shadow of the Mound only for a deep crimson glow to slice it in two.

“It only makes sense that you would come,” Pajiramon leapt down to confront the source of the glow as a tall wolf-like Digimon stepped out from the shadows.

“Guilty as charged, old foe of mine,” ShadowWereGarurumon laughed huskily. “We’re here for the boss,” he flashed his nails. “Hand ‘em over.”

“Still so quick to make frivolous demands, yet too slow to realise your foolishness,” Pajiramon replied calmly.

“You are the fool!” The wolf-like Digimon leapt at Pajiramon, his claws gleaming. “KAISER NAIL!”

“THUNDER STOMP!” Pajiramon bleated, raising his front feet to intercept the attack.

Shockwaves emanated from the two as they collided before they reeled back to strike again and again. Neither gave any ground in their clash and the pair leapt back from each other to rebalance before colliding once more.

Back in the skies the flight-capable Digimon continued their assault on the horde, thinning their numbers quickly but there were still an overwhelming number.

“Gah!” Crabmon cried out upon being slashed by a Devidramon’s claw and falling toward the earth only to find themselves landing on something soft. “Thanks, ya’ big chicken.”

“I detest these pitiful nicknames of yours,” Saberdramon said. “Find something better.”

“How about you keep your ears on the battle!?” Crabmon retorted back.

“NITRO ARROW!” Saberdramon yelled as a purple bolt of flame burst from his maw, striking a Devidramon and knocking it out of the air. “Will that suffice?”

“Not bad at all,” Crabmon clicked his pincers. “But let me show you one better. WATER SHOT!” A torrent of bubbles burst forward, striking a Devidramon in the eye and causing it to cry out.

“SPEED NIGHTMARE!” Tinkermon yelled, whizzing around the Devidramon at great speed, cutting and clipping their wings until it began to break apart and reform into an egg which plummeted toward the surface.

“Hey! That was mine!” Crabmon exclaimed angrily.

“Then why don’t you stop messing around and get serious!?” The fairy-sized Digimon chastised.

“I am!” Crabmon yelled back.

“We’ve got a problem!” Tentomon’s voice interrupted them as he dropped onto a Devidramon’s head. “Look down!” he pointed toward the surface before his antennae sparked and his temporary platform cried out as he leapt off.

“Is that? No, it can’t be!” Tinkermon exclaimed after following the direction of his claw. "Oh, not him!"

“It is,” Saberdramon said, his head turning from side to side as he looked downward. “ShadowWereGarurumon… clashing with Pajiramon”

“What!? Where are they!?” Crabmon said, looking over his ally’s shoulder. “I don’t see ‘em!”

“Go,” Saberdramon said, glancing toward his insectoid ally. “He’s going for the seal. We can handle things up here.”

“Are you sure?” Tentomon asked, looking at their own foes. “There’s still a lot of them to go.”

“Certain of it!” Tinkermon grinned in confirmation. “We’re fine. Just stop him!”

“Okay then,” Tentomon nodded before beginning to dive. “Best of luck!”

“You too!” Tinkermon called after him before looking back up. “Alright, boys! Let’s kick some butt!”

“Yeah!” The other two yelled in agreement.

On the ground, neither of the clashing Digimon had given any ground as they exchanged swipes and kicks with one another, trying to get the other to back down.

“FULL MOON KICK!” ShadowWereGarurumon howled, delivering a spinning kick into Pajiramon’s side.

“Agh! THUNDER STOMP!” Pajiramon’s hooves slammed into his enemy’s chest.

“Grr!” ShadowWereGarurumon growled out as he skidded back, managing to stay upright. “Not bad… But not good enough!” the wolf-like Digimon leapt forward, claws glowing a crimson red. “KAISER NAIL!”

“THUNDER STOMP!” Pajiramon’s hooves launched forward, intercepting the attack once more.

“Those hooves of yours are getting really annoying,” the wolf-like Digimon snarled, claws tightening around his enemy’s feet. “Let’s make sure you can’t use them,” blue fire began to take form in the back of his throat. “WOLF FLAME!”

“Aghhhh!” Pajiramon cried out as he was engulfed by the howling fire, though he did not falter as his crossbow arm stretched out and pointed toward the seal before he fired. “BAO GONG!”

ShadowWereGarurumon’s eyes widened as several arrows flew from the bow and toward the seal, striking the ground near it and causing a pained shriek to erupt from the sight of impact.

“Show yourself, fiend!” Pajiramon demanded, kicking themselves free and leaping toward the seal firing another volley.

“Where are you going?” ShadowWereGarurumon leapt after the Deva, attempting to get ahold of them, only to be kicked away. “Gah!” They skidded back.

“JANEGAN!” Several eerie purple beams of light flew from where the arrows had previously struck, eradicating the incoming volley and striking their attacker who cried out and staggered onto their knees.

“Hehehe, I see this one gives you much trouble, ShadowWereGarurumon.” The ground near the seal began writhe as a dark shadow began to emerge and take form. Countless eyes opened along it’s slender body as a large grinning maw of teeth opened, fixated on Pajiramon. “I see you and this Deva of an equal foot. I see you may not be up to the Master’s task.”

“Eyesmon,” ShadowWereGarurumon snarled. “Enough chatter! Finish what we came here for!”

“Worry not. I will see that our goal here is accomplished, just as I see an interloper.” Several eyes on his back glowed purple before beams shot upward.

“Gagh!” Tentomon cried out as they plummeted to the ground. “Ow… That’s going to leave a mark.”

Pajiramon clicked his tongue, watching as his apparent backup pulled themselves up before firing another arrow at Eyesmon. The shadow-like Digimon’s arm writhed, taking the form of an enormous battle axe and split the arrow in two.

“You will be seen to soon enough, Deva. But now,” Eyesmon’s body twisted so they were facing the seal, “I have a mission to fulfil. Deal with them.”

“SUPER SHOCKER!” Tentomon’s antennae sparked, unleashing a surge of electricity.

“BAO GONG!” Pajiramon fired another volley of arrows from their bow before turning around to be met with a grinning jaw.

“Too slow,” ShadowWereGarurumon snarled, claws glowing crimson as he slashed Pajiramon’s side. “KAISER NAIL!” As his foe cried out in pain, ShadowWereGarurumon sprinted toward Tentomon, swiping him down too.

As his foes fell before back eyes, Eyesmon grinned as his spread, writhing and contorting and growing into a pair of large scythes. “DECEPTIVE ILLUSION!” The blades fell, ripping through the seal and tearing a huge hole from which an eerie light began to shine from within.

“Yes! Yes! YES!” Eyesmon hissed as he continued to break into the seal. “Master! You are free now! MASTER!”

The eerie light’s shine intensified, glowing brilliantly before dark waves of energy shot out, knocking those nearby back and tearing up the earth.

“I SEE MY MASTER!” Eyesmon cried out in jubilation as the ground began to rumble. “I SEE! I SEE EVEYTHING! I SEE THE END! YES MASTER I SEE YOUR VISION!”

“JUSTICE BLASTER!”

“MASTER FIRE!”

“FIRE BREATH!”

“MACHINE GUN ARM! ”

“WIZARD BOLT!”

“ROCK CRACKING!”

As the attacks flew toward them, Eyesmon continued his fanatical laughter, even as plumes of dirt and rubble engulfed the battlefield. Once the dust had cleared however things were unsettlingly calm. Silence fell over Cardinal Mound as all traces of invaders were gone. The sky was bright once more as the airborne Digimon began their celebration. The only indicators that a conflict of any sort had taken place were the injuries that had been sustained, the earth torn asunder and a now dim glow that emanated from the now broken seal.

Esuha City - Osaka Prefecture – Japan – Present Day

“Since then none of Barbamon’s allies have made another attempt to free him. Nor has he made any attempt to free himself as far as we can tell," Tentomon concluded. "After that Zhuqiaomon opened Gates and sent us to find you all. They thought it best to be ready for anything."

“And in doing so we ended up here,” Mitsuru exhaled before nodding in understanding of their current situation. “Naomi and I talked about what we’d do if something happened, but to think it  actually has.”

“I’m sorry that I sprung this on you so suddenly,” Tentomon apologised, looking down. “Things really have gotten out hand.”

“It’s okay,” Mitsuru reassured, petting Tentomon’s back. “I’m sorry that you all had to go through that without us. How are you feeling?”

“I… I don’t know,” Tentomon answered after several moments had passed. “Eyesmon got away, both of them did. The seal is broken and Azulongmon is watching over Cardinal Mound personally. Zhuqioamon was going to leave and search for answers after we returned with you all. I’m not sure what’s going to happen now,” the Digimon breathed out and faced his friend. “But… despite everything, I am happy that I am able to see you again, Mitsuru. I missed you so much.”

“I missed you too,” Mitsuru smiled and hugged his friend. “And regardless of what happens from here on out, we’ll get through it together.”

"Thank you," Tentomon said, returning the embrace and letting it last several moments. "Y-Yeah… we'll find a way to save both our worlds."

"Yeah," Mitsuru agreed. "We should get to it, huh?” he let go.

"Right," Tentomon nodded as they pulled away and began removing the clothes he had been given to wear. "These are nice, but the whole disguise thing is really not my style. Also, they smell."

"I didn’t have anything else, sorry," Mitsuru apologised, picking them up and folding them as Tentomon moved toward a clear spot nearby.

"Oh, don't worry about it," the Digimon said, watching as Mitsuru held his Digivice up and a soft light began to radiate from it. "Tentomon Digi- Huh? What was that?" Tentomon stopped and began looking around.

"What was what?" Mitsuru asked confusedly as the Digivice's glow faded.

"Neito! Ami! Where are you!?" A young voice wailed, drawing the pair's attention toward the source.

Moving hastily down the nearby path and looking around frantically was a child with long blonde hair tied back into twin ponytails.

 "Mommy! Daddy! Yoshi!" she cried as he looked around frantically and very lost.

“Uhh…” The pair exchanged a look before sharing a nod and moving over.

“Neito! Where are you?”

“Uh, hey there, kid,” Mitsuru said, coming to a stop a couple meters away and crouching down. “Are you okay?”

The child froze for a second before hastily wiping her tears and turned to face the pair with a wide smile on her face. “I am wonderful. It's quite a pleasant night isn't it?" she began to laugh

“… But you were just crying,” Tentomon spoke after several seconds of stunned silence.

“I was not!” The kid exclaimed. “You don't know what you're talking about! Do you have any idea who you are speaking with!?”

“Uh... Not really, no,” Tentomon said, taking a couple of steps back when Mitsuru made a gesture.

“Are you lost?” The teen asked.

“No, of course I am not lost! I am taking a stroll, just like you!” the child responded with gusto before their expression dropped. “I… I,” tears welled up in their eyes as they deflated. “I lost my brother,” she began to cry. “W-We got separated at the market,” she bawled.

“Oh dear, you poor thing,” Tentomon said sympathetically. “Mitsuru…”

“Yeah, I know,” Mitsuru whispered back before turning to face the kid. They could not just leave her here, it would be wrong to. “If it's okay with, my friend and I could help you find your brother?"

“R-Really…?” the kid sniffled. “You will…?”

“Yeah, we will,” Mitsuru nodded, holding out his hand to the kid.

“I'm sorry about before," Tentomon apologised as the girl wiped her tears. "But, believe it or not, we know a couple of things about being lost too."

“Y-You do?” the kid asked, going to wipe their eyes.

“Yeah… We’re uh, not exactly from here,” Mitsuru said, giving the kid a smile.

“Me neither,” the kid said, taking Mitsuru's hand and the pair stood up. "Mommy and Daddy brought us here on vacation!"

“Well then, we best make sure you're able to get back to it. Could you show us where you lost him?" Mitsuru asked and the kid nodded as the trio began to make their way down the path. “What’s your name, kid?”

“Sayako…” the girl replied. “Sayako Monoma…”

Chapter Text

Esuha City Market (Northern Side) - Osaka Prefecture – Japan

Finding the exact spot where Sayako had become separated from her siblings was a simple enough task. What had not been for Mitsuru however was making sure that she did not get separated from him. The street they had found themselves on had been somewhat cornered off and there were people moving in all directions as they navigated around a labyrinth of stalls and attractions which formed a large market as far as the eye could see.

"Is it always this busy here?" Mitsuru asked as they found themselves in the middle of it all.

"Nuh-uh," Sayako shook her head. "Neito said that tonight's market happens twice a year. He told me that people from all over come here to see it."

“So, it’s a big event?” Mitsuru guessed.

“That's what my brother says,” Sayako answered with a grin. "Are you calling my brother a liar?"

"I'm not," he dissuaded her accusation. "I've just never been here before."

That was the other thing Mitsuru had come to learn, Sayako was a polite kid although she tended to jump quickly to the defence of her brother upon the slightest perceived slight. She reminded Mitsuru of himself in a way. At least she had been willing to give brown-haired teen a description of her sibling. Neito was around Mitsuru’s own age although he was a little bit taller with short blonde hair. Sayako had also said he was wearing black pants and a plain blue button-up shirt.

“Mitsuru!” Tentomon called out as he descended toward the pair. “I couldn’t find him, sorry. Everyone here looks so unusual compared to your wor- I-I mean… compared to where we’re from. It’s hard to make anyone out clearly. I almost had trouble finding you again. Also,” the Digimon paused and looked around, “people keep looking at me. I’m starting to think it’s a bad idea for me to be flying around.”

“Well, you are a bit unusual looking,” Mitsuru said, glancing toward a couple of passers-by who looked away when he made eye contact with them. “Thank you though, it was nice of you to look.”

“What are you supposed to be anyway?" Sayako asked, looking at the Digimon. "You don't look like a person, more like a giant ladybug," she moved to poke Tentomon's back repeatedly.

"I'm uh... well that's uh... a bit... complicated…" Tentomon trailed off as he thought about how to answer.

"He's my friend," Mitsuru spoke up, much to the insectoid's relief.

"Is he your pet?" Sayako asked suddenly.

"No, he's my friend," he repeated, slightly annoyed at the question.

"But he looks like a pet," Sayako said, beginning to pet Tentomon.

"I am definitely not a pet," Tentomon felt uncomfortable at the gesture. "Would you please stop that?"

"Boo... You're no fun," Sayako complained but stopped anyway. Suddenly, she snapped her fingers and turned toward the boy with a wide grin. "Oh, I've got it! He's your quirk!" the girl exclaimed.

"No, he's my friend," Mitsuru repeated with a slight frown, making her expression drop.  

"But if he's not your pet and still follows your commands then he has to be your Quirk!" she was quick to argue.

"No, he’s my friend," Mitsuru repeated once more, starting to look fed up. “I don’t command my friends.”

“Well, if it makes you both feel better, I don’t mind what you call me,” Tentomon spoke up, wanting to diffuse the tension between the pair.

“Then you are his Quirk,” Sayako said, nodding in self-affirmation whilst Mitsuru exhaled.

“Are you sure this is where you got separated from your brother?” the teen asked, wanting to get back on topic as he continued to scan their surroundings.

“Yup, I'm certain,” the child answered. “Everything here is so bright and shiny, it's hard not to get lost here."

“Which of the stalls got you?” Mitsuru kept an eye out as the trio continued their way through the crowd.

“None of them, of course!” Sayako laughed triumphantly. “They can try but they can't beat me!” She exclaimed only for her stomach to growl loudly and caused her expression to drop. 

“It sounds like you were beat,” Tentomon said to which his friend shook his head slightly.

"I've been betrayed!" the girl exclaimed. "Double-crossed! I have brought upon my own recourse!" and with that, she fell to the floor.

“Oh dear, are you alright!?” Tentomon quickly moved to check on her.

“I apologise, Neito, Ami, this is the end for me,” Sayako whined as he laid upon the ground. “I should have listened and eaten before we left! I'm sorry!"

“She's fine,” Mitsuru bent down, holding back a sigh as he extended his hand. “Come on, people are beginning to stare.”

“No, go on without me,” Sayako pleaded. “Tell my parents and siblings that I love them. It’s my last wish,” with that her head dropped to the ground.

“Oh dear,” Tentomon’s looked up in alarm. “Maybe there’s someone here who can help her. Uh, which way is the hospital?”

“Don’t worry, she’s fine,” Mitsuru reassured the Digimon once more before turning back to Sayako. “You can’t keep lying here forever. What would your brother think if he found you like this?”

“That I fought valiantly until the bitter end,” Sayako answered quietly.

“I could just carry her,” Tentomon suggested upon noticing the worried expression on his friend’s face as the crowd around them continued to grow. “She doesn’t look to be much heavier than you were back then. Besides, I’ve been working out.”

“I don’t think that would make things better,” Mitsuru let out a tired sigh before looking toward the girl. “If I buy you something to eat, will you get up?”

Before he even finished his words, Sayako had already shot up and was looking at him excitedly. “Yes, please! You must!”

“What do you want?” Mitsuru asked as the crowd began to disperse upon seeing nothing seemed to be amiss.

 “That right there!” Sayako exclaimed suddenly and pointed toward a sign further down the street depicting a bipedal dog wearing a cooking apron and holding a pair of tongs.

“Is that a hotdog stand?” the teen asked, looking at it.

“Yeah!” Sayako beamed. “I’ve heard they make the best hot dogs ever! C’mon!” and with that she bolted.

“Don’t run off!” Misturu called as he chased after her, holding back a defeated sigh.

“I’ll make sure we don’t lose her,” Tentomon said as he flew up and over the crowd to pursue the girl.

Fortunately, knowing where Sayako was heading made her quite easy to follow. What did not help things however was how quick she was on her feet along with the size of how tightly packed everyone was.

“Sorry. Really, sorry,” Mitsuru apologised as he ducked and weaved through the crowd. “Come back here!” he yelled after her to no avail and it only took a split second before he lost sight of her once more. “Damn,” he picked up the pace.

By the time he had caught up to her and Tentomon, they had pushed their way to the front of the stand’s queue and several people behind them looked annoyed.

“- And then I’ll have one mega dog with extra cheese and onion!” the teen heard Sayako say as he moved closer, apologising to a couple of irritated-looking people in the queue.

“And how will you be paying for these, kid?” the vendor asked,  looking down at her with a stern and questioning expression.

“He’ll be paying for all of them!” Sayako proudly pointed toward the teen.

“Is that so?” The man turned his head and looked the teen up and down. “That’ll be ¥8900.”

“H-How much?” Mitsuru felt himself going pale at the amount.

“¥8900,” the vendor replied, crossing his arms. “Three jumbo dogs, one with no mustard, another with extra onions and the last one plain. Two standard dogs with extra cheese, one with barbeque sauce instead of ketchup. Two standards with extra onion, cheese and mustard, and finally one mega dog with extra cheese and onion.”

“You ordered eight of them?” His jaw dropped as he turned toward Sayako who did not look like she saw a problem with the order and was instead grinning from ear to ear.

“I’m sorry, I tried to stop her,” Tentomon apologised in a whisper.

“Either pay up or move out of line, kid. You’re holding up business,” the vendor was frowning now.

Snapping back to reality, Mitsuru instantly dug for his wallet and began counting how much yen he had left. After a quick glance toward the price stand at the side of the cart, the teen grabbed some coins and set them in front of the man.

 “I am really sorry for the trouble,” Mitsuru apologised. “Just one standard hotdog will be fine, thank you.”

“Hmm,” the man scowled before reaching down and picking up the coins to count, pausing for a second before placing them in the till. “Very well, then,” he said before getting to work on preparing the lone dog.

“Aww come on!” Sayako complained loudly. “You can only afford one!? What kind of hero are you?”

“We are definitely not superheroes,” Tentomon gently said.

“But you’re helping me!” Sayako exclaimed.

“Because you’re lost,” the Digimon reminded her.

‘Besides, now I’m completely broke…’ Mitsuru thought as he let out a sigh and turned back toward the vendor. “Excuse me, Sir?”

“What is it?” The vendor replied, slightly annoyed.

“Have you seen another kid this evening, a bit taller than me but with blonde hair?” the teen asked.

“I’ve seen plenty of blonde kids come past here tonight. Too many to count,” the man placed the hot dog down and cluing in to the situation. “You’re best off asking a Pro for help.”

“A ‘Pro’?” Mitsuru repeated.

“Yeah, a hero!” Sayako exclaimed, beginning to devour the hot dog. “Mmm dis ish sho good.”

“It’s important to chew and swallow before you speak,” Tentomon said to which the girl feigned a pout.

“Y-Yeah, we’ll do that,” Mitusuru stuttered as the vendor did not reply. “Thank you, Sir. I’m sorry for the trouble,” with those words the trio moved aside and the next person moved up.

“You two are strange,” Sayako said, finishing up her food as the trio began walking down the street again. “How did you not know what that man meant? All heroes are Pros, even I know that.”

“Uh… I haven’t heard the term before,” Mitsuru answered, trying to be vague in his reply. ‘This is getting too complicated…’

“How come?” Sayako asked. “My brother and sister use it all the time.”

“Well, I’m not your brother,” Mitsuru replied, really unsure of what else to say.

“Apologies, none of this is making sense to us,” Tentomon said. “We’re not exactly used to seeing superheroes where we’re from.”

“Where are you from?” Sayako turned to look at them curiously.

“U-Uh…” the Digimon tried to think of a reply and looked to Mitsuru for one.

“Later,” the teen answered. “Sayako, do you know how we can find a superhero around here?”

“We could scream,” Sayako replied. “Mommy and Daddy say a hero will come running if they hear one. Watch this,” she took a deep breath.

“How about we don’t cause a commotion?” Mitsuru suggested, bending down and speaking gently to stop her. ‘We don’t want to be the center of attention again,’ he added in thought as he glanced toward Tentomon. “What about that hero we saw fighting earlier, the one on the chip packet?”

“Oh, you mean the Fat guy?” Tentomon recalled. “He could be around here somewhere. Someone of his size will definitely stand out.”

“Don’t be rude!” Sayako scolded. “He’s not just a guy! Heroes work hard to protect us! Show them more respect!”

“I-I’m uh… I’m not sure what else I can say to describe him,” Tentomon replied before looking back to his friend. “Do you want me to search for him?”

“I hate to ask, but that would be great,” Mitsuru said.

“But quirks aren’t allowed to be used in public!” Sayako protested.

“What do you mean?” the brown-haired teen looked toward the girl.

“Only pro’s and people with a licence can use their quirks in public,” Sayako said before looking confused. “Everyone knows that. Neito said so.”

“… I see,” Mitsuru said, even more confused now. “And what exactly is a Quirk?”

“Your superpower, duh!” the girl answered, just as confused. “How do you not know that?”

“Well, I personally wouldn’t call myself Mitsuru’s superpower,” Tentomon answered. “Besides… I uh, I think it’s a bit late. I’ve been flying around a lot already.”

“Ah, you’re right,” Sayako said in realisation before pointing at Mitsuru. “Then that makes you a villain!”

“I’m pretty sure that’s not how it works,” the teenager said.

 “You broke the law, that means you’re a villain,” the girl replied, nodding her head before taking a breath and pointed at Mitsuru. “Somebody, help! He’s a villain!”

“A villain?” A nearby man turned toward the commotion.

“There’s one here!?” A woman’s head also turned.

“Where!?” Another asked. “

“Quick! Somebody call a hero!” A second man yelled.

“Wait, you’ve got it all wrong!” Tentomon was quick to jump to his friend’s defence when a couple of people began to move closer towards him.

“… Why us…?” Mitsuru thought as he glanced around, becoming more and more uneasy the closer they got. “U-Uh… Younger siblings am I right? W-We’re sorry for the trouble,” he laughed nervously as he looked for a way through.

“Hey? Why is there a commotion over here?” Another voice, asked over the crowd, drawing everyone’s attention.

‘Great… Just what we need right now,’ the teen thought.

Esuha City Market (Southern side) - Osaka Prefecture – Japan

“Excuse me, Sir?” asked blonde-haired teen asked, catching the attention of a man with wolf-like features who turned to look at them. “You wouldn’t have happened to see a little girl with blonde hair and wearing a blue dress around here have you?”

“Eh… Sorry, kid. Haven’t seen anyone like that. If you’re missing someone, you best find a hero or call the police. Plenty of them around here,” with that the man turned and continued on their way. “Best of luck.”

“Best of luck…” the blonde cursed under his breath with a frown. ‘How could I have been so stupid?’ he thought before turning toward another.

“Excuse me, you wouldn’t have happened to-”

“No, I haven’t,” the man said as they walked straight past him.

At least an hour had passed since Neito had last seen Sayako and so far he had no luck in figuring out where she had ran off to. All it had taken was quick glance away and she was gone. Worst of all none of the other market goers nor vendors he had asked seen her either.

Esuha City’s famous night markets always drew in a crowd, particularly the extravagant one which took place during the latter months of the year.  The city’s main street along with several side roads had been cordoned off like they were in years past, although it was clear that the market itself was still expanding. What had once been a long strip down a single road now filtered into several side strips, a couple even leading toward several of the city’s canals.

Food vendors sold anything ranging from local delights such as takoyaki and yakisoba to more American foods. There were of course stands that sold hero merchandise for the collectors amongst the crowd alongside sideshows which offered them as prizes. Neito knew a lot of it was bootleg but he knew his sisters would not care much, especially if won something. There were some wonderful hand-crafted items however. He had found himself a beautifully made domino mask along with a pair of matching gloves. He had already decided to go back for them later when he had the time.

The sound of carnival music rang from his pants pocket and he wasted no time in answering the call.

"I haven't found her yet," he exhaled as he spoke into his phone. “Please tell me you’ve had better luck?”

"I haven’t," an older voice replied on the other end of the line. "We’re almost on the other side of the market. The crowd's thinned out a bit around here but no one's seen her. Ami is still blaming herself," the last sentence came through as a whisper. "I think it's time we either find a Pro, or at least the police. Or Mom and Dad."

"We can't do that," Monoma instantly shut her down. "You know how important this meeting is."

"I do," the woman replied, her tone quite clearly expressing the frown that would be on her face. "But this is an emergency, Neito.”

"They can't find out," Monoma repeated. "The Étoile’s deserve to be on that stage. You, Mom and Dad deserve to front and center. We cannot call them-

“Neito,” she interrupted.

“-Not yet," he finished.

There was a long pause on the other side. “… Fine. One more hour, then I’m making the call. We’ll stay out here for a little while before heading back in. Meet us at the main plaza, okay?”

“Okay,” Neito nodded his head. “… and Yoshika?”

“Yeah?” the voice on the other end paused.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright. Let’s work on finding her.”

Esuha City Market (Northern Side) - Osaka Prefecture

“Ah, Fat!” one of the bystander’s expression turned relief upon recognising the newcomer’s voice. “It’s good to see you.”

“Well we don’t have to look for him now,” Tentomon whispered as the pair looked on.

“Uh huh,” Mitsuru nodded slowly.

“Right back at you,” Fat Gum smiled at the man as the rest of the bystanders also began to relax. “What’s got everyone so worked up?” His eyes then fell on the pair and he leant down to speak to them. “Are you two okay?”

“Y-Yeah, we’re fine,” the teen stammered in surprise.

“Indeed. But, it’s not us that we’re worried about,” Tentomon added. “We have to catch up to Sayako and quick.”

“Sayako? Who’s that?” the large man asked.

“Uh, if I may?” one of the bystanders interrupted, drawing their attention. “There was a little girl here too just a moment ago. We all heard a shout about a villain and when we looked we saw her running away from these two.”

“That’s right,” another added. “It was quite alarming to say the least. We were just about to call and then you showed up.”

“I’ve never seen a quirk that makes anyone look as unusual as him before,” a third said, pointing toward Tentomon as Mitsuru moved to shield his friend.

“He’s not a quirk, he’s my friend,” the teen frowned at the person who made the comment.

“Actually, that’s kind of what started this whole thing,” Tentomon turned his head toward the hero. “We were trying to help Sayako find her brother and then after I’d been looking from the air she said that quirks weren’t allowed to be used in public unless we have a licence. Then she called us villains and ran away.”

“So it’s a missing kid,” Fat Gum surmised before giving the pair a smile. “Okay, then. I’ll help you find her,” he turned back toward the crowd. “Everything’s under control here so you don’t need to hang around. Tonight’s supposed to be fun, right? So get out and enjoy yourselves. Leave this to me!” he gave them a wide smile.

Some members of the crowd looked between each other as others began to disperse upon hearing the hero’s reassurance. It took only a couple more moments before they left too and Fat Gum turned looked toward the pair.

“Sorry about the trouble. The people here usually aren’t so on edge,” Fat Gum apologised as he stepped to the side to help the traffic flow. “Now, would you tell me more about this girl? What does she look like?”

 “Her name is Sayako Monoma and she has blue eyes along with blonde hair,” Mitsuru began describing her. “It was tied back into pig tails and she was wearing a light blue dress. I didn’t get her age, but her brother’s name is Neito and he’s about my age and has the same hair and eye colour as her.”

“Sayako was also heading in that direction,” Tentomon used his claw to point down the street. “We’ve already been standing here for a little while now. Who knows how far she’s gotten.”

“You’re right,” Fat Gum said. “How about you guys leave this to me as well? Why don’t you go ahead and enjoy yourselves. Your parents might start worrying about you.”

The hero’s words made Mitsuru pause before the teen shook his head. “We already told her we’d help her find her brother. We’re not leaving, right?” he looked toward Tentomon.

“Of course we’re not,” the Digimon agreed. “Did you have to ask?”

“Alright then,” Fat Gum smiled widely at the pair before turning around. “What do you say we first this girl?” He began to walk in the direction Tentomon had pointed as he unzipped his hoodie slightly and began to speak into it quietly. “This is Fat Gum. Could use a couple of sidekicks around the central market. We have a missing girl separated from her brother. Her name’s Sayako and she has blonde hair along with a blue dress on.”

“Uh…” Mitsuru and Tentomon exchanged a look with each other as they followed the man and looked around.

“I’ve got a radio in my costume,” the hero glanced back to explain to the pair. “We should find her soon, so don’t worry. In the meantime it’s important to stay calm. After all, I’m willing to bet her family is worried sick so it’s important to find her as quickly and as safely as possible.”

“Mhm, then I shall get a dig-uh I mean, bug’s eye view,” Tentomon beat their wings and flying upward to hover over the pair and scan their surroundings. “I’m not seeing anything so far though.”

“That would be great,” Fat Gum looked back in curiosity. “Anyway, you probably caught my name earlier but just in case, my name’s Fat Gum and I’m a Pro Hero. What are your names?”

“Mitsuru,” the boy answered as he continued to scan the crowd. “Mitsuru Kazami. It’s nice to meet you.”

“And I’m Tentomon, a pleasure indeed,” Tentomon introduced himself.

“Right back at you both,” the hero said, scanning the crowd and looking back to Tentomon. “You guys here for the market?”

 “Uh, not exactly,” the brown-haired teen answered. “We’re… just passing through.”

“We got separated from our friends,” Tentomon added. “We were trying to catch up to them before this happened.”

“So you guys are lost as well,” Fat Gum looked back. “How about after we find and reunite this girl with her family, I help you both?”

“Oh that would be kind of you,” Tentomon said.

“But we’re fine,” Misturu added quickly. “We already have an idea of where they’re going to be.”

“I see,” the hero replied. “Well if you guys do need help don’t hesitate to ask, okay?”

“Hey, Fat! You hungry?” A food vendor called out as the trio neared them.

“I’ll stop by later. I’m working right now,” Fat Gum said as he walked towards the vendor. “You wouldn’t have happened to see a kid in a blue dress pass by would you?”

“Uh… let me see,” the seller began to think. “Hmm… Yeah I think, just a couple ago. She bumped into a few people and kept running the main plaza. She looked scared. Didn’t see much more after that, sorry.”

BOOOOOOOOOM!

The sound of an explosion filled the air and the group’s eyes widened as they turned in the direction just in time to see a plume of smoke rising in the distance.

“Run!”

“Everyone look out!”

“GROAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!” A loud roar filled the air causing the mostly stunned crowd to turn and stampede the other way.

“Somebody get help!”

“It’s a villain!” People screamed as they ran the opposite way through the crowd.

“A villain’s attacking the market!” Another yelled as the crowd turned to stampede away.

“GROAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!”

“You all get away from here,” Fat Gum said, his expression turning serious as he looked at the pair.  “Do not follow, it’s going to be dangerous!” with that he sprinted off toward the source of the commotion. “Pro hero coming through! Please move aside!” he yelled as he ran through the crowd.

“Sayako might be there. We’re going aren’t we?” Tentomon said as he and Mitsuru began to chase after the hero.

“Of course we are!” the teen said, ducking and weaving through the crowd. “Sorry, coming through!”

“Hey, wait! Don’t go there!” The vendor called after them.

By the time that the trio arrived at the scene, the crowd had already thinned out and the few people that remained behind were either stunned scared or had ducked behind stalls for cover.

“GROAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!” Another roar was followed by the ground shaking as a large being swiped at a food truck.

“Oh, no you don’t!” Fat Gum rushed between the swipe and the truck, allowing the incoming blow to slash through his hoodie and bounce off him. “Agh… Get out! You need to move!” he called to the people inside who burst from the backdoors as they fled.

“Thank you, Fat Gum!” one of them called.

“Hahahahaha! It ssseems that I didn’t need to wait long to find you after all!” The villain laughed “Fat Gum! Return my brother to me or elssse!”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” The hero called up to the villain. “How about you calm down for a bit and we’ll talk this out!?”

“No! You took him in! Give him back, now!” he demanded.

The villain in question stood four times larger than he was with a serpentine features from his head all the way down to his torso. A pair of razor-sharp fangs hung down from his mouth as a pitch black tongue flickered between them. He had dark yellow eyes and a bald head with large and thick looking scales protruding from it and forming a hood that all the way down his bare back and chest.

“Somebody help me!” A young voice cried from his clasped  fist.

“Sayako!” Mitsuru’s  eyes widened as the villain held her up.

“Oh no! he’s got her,” Tentomon said as the pair came to a stop.

“What are you two doing here!?” Fat Gum’s eyes widened in surprise. “I told you to stay back!”

“Fat Gum!” The villain captured the trio’s attention as he licked his lips. “Return my brother to me or the girl getsss it!”

“Let her go!” Fat Gum, took several steps forward as he called up to the villain. “I don’t know who you’re talking about. Just let her go and we’ll talk!”

“Really now!? You really forgot my brother! Do you really expect me to believe that!?” the villain yelled in disbelief. “You jussst took him in! Now releassse him!”

“You’ve been taking Trigger, haven’t you?” Fat Gum called, after a moment of realisation. “Please, calm down and think this through! The police will already on the way here! Stop before you make things worse for yourself!”

“What’s Trigger?” Tentomon asked quietly.

“I have no idea,” Mitsuru whispered back.

“No!” the villain stomped the ground impatiently, kicking up dust and debris when his foot collided with the ground. “Give me my brother!”

“Please help me!” Sayako called from his grip before starting to struggle. “Let me go, you big bully!”

“Stop struggling!” the villain yelled, bringing her up to his face. “If you know what’s good for you, you’ll settle down like a good little girl.”

“E-Eeep!” Sayako immediately fell silent.

“We have to save Sayako, now,” Mitsuru pulled out his Digivice. “Tentomon!”

“I’m with you!” The insectoid nodded and began to move forward.

“Everyone stay right where they are!” Fat Gum ordered, looking back at the pair causing them to stop.

“But we have to-“ Fat Gum held his hand out, silencing the teen’s protest.

The hero then looked back at up at the man. ‘We can’t rush this, now that he’s got a hostage,’ he thought. ‘But who is this guy talking about?’

 ‘He knows me and said I took his brother from him,’ the hero began to recount mentally. ‘I apparently just took him in… Could they have been a villain too?’ suddenly his eyes widened in realisation.

???  - Osaka Prefecture – Japan

10 minutes earlier…

"Hebiki Kobura, a known to police as a dealer of the illicit substance Trigger was apprehended by Fat Gum following a rampage in the city’s western district this afternoon," the television's glow reflected in his eyes as the newsperson continued with the story.

'Brother... You never did return,' their thin serpent-like tongue flickered as their eyes fixated on the displayed mugshot. 'I see now. They took you away from me.'

"- His brother, Kuroka Kobura still remains at large and is considered to be armed and very dangerous," the broadcast continued, displaying an old mugshot as he frowned. "If anyone has information on his whereabouts, please contact Esuha Police Depart-"

Crash!

The sound of glass shattering echoed, as his tail came down on the china cabinet toward the back of the room.

'I told you. Sliding into the light was a foolish error on your part,' He let out a slow rumble. 'I shall find you again and we shall slither back into the darkness together.'

A loud Bang! came from outside caused him to snap his gaze toward the front door. Slowly, he rose from his chair and trudged toward the entrance. Opening the door he looked around and saw nothing before he looked down to see a girl whimpering on the ground in front of him.

“Worry not, brother. I think I know how to save you from the light,” he snarled under his breath and reached for the girl who’s eyes widened in horror.

Esuha City Market (Central Plaza) - Osaka Prefecture

Present time…

“Your name is Kuroka!” Fat Gum exclaimed in realisation. “Your brother is Hebiki Kobura!”

“Ahh, finally you remember!” Kuroka began to laugh in delight. “Now, return him to me!”

“I can’t do that! Your brother went on a rampage and hurt innocent people!” Fat Gum called to explain. “Now, please let the girl go free before you make things worse for him and for you!”

Sirens began to sound in the distance as a couple of costumed figures joined the group, standing alongside the hero.

“… Sorry we’re late,” the one in the white hood mumbled.

“Traffic was a bit backed up but we made it here as soon as we could. Hoo hoo!” the second hooted, their human head and neck having been replaced with those of an owl.

“Good timing,” Fat Gum whispered under his breath before looking back up at the villain. “You’re outnumbered and the police are almost here. You can end this now! No one has to get hurt!”

“Your sidekicks don’t frighten me, hero!” the villain exclaimed. “In fact,” his arm reeled back.

“Don’t do it!” Fat Gum exclaimed as the group’s eyes widened in horror.

“N-No p-please d-don’t,” Sayako begged fearfully as tears began to well up.

“I don’t need this girl anymore!” His arm flew forward, opening wide as he threw her high into the air.

Sayako let out a scream as she soared off at high speeds, closing her eyes as she began to cry.

“Quick! Someone get something to catch her!” Fat Gum exclaimed as he burst forward to block a swipe aimed at them.

“We’ve got her!” Tentomon exclaimed, having already turned to give chase.

“You won’t be able to reach her in time, and a net won’t slow her down either,” the hooded figure mumbled.

“We don’t need a net,” Mitsuru rose his digivice. “And we’ll catch her!”

A bright burst of energy erupted from the pocket-sized device, quickly reaching and engulfing Tentomon in its light.

“TENTOMON DIGIVOLVE TO…”

His legs stretched, becoming long and bone-like with three sharp clawed toes at the end of each. His arms and claws extended, becoming a set of four long appendages, each with five fingers. His exoskeleton turned blue and two pairs of large wings grew out from his back whilst a  black skull-like helmet with a singular large horn grew over his face.

“KABUTERIMON!” He roared in a now deeper voice.

“Hoo! Oh my,” one of the sidekick’s mouth hung open in surprise.

“That’s…” the other mumbled.

“Some transformation quirk,” Fat Gum puffed his chest out, rebounding a kick from the villain and knocking them off balance.

“Yeah, let’s go with that,” Mitsuru said, watching as the Digimon flew off at a much greater speed.

“Sayako! I’m coming!” Kabuterimon yelled as he flew after the girl.

It barely took any time for the Digimon to catch up with her. As Kabuterimon approached, the insectoid’s arms stretched out, coasting under Sayako for several meters and allowing her to land safely in his palms.

“H-Huh?” Feeling something solid underneath her, Sayako’s eyes slowly opened and she found herself looking down at the cityscape below.

“A-Ah… Where am I?” she looked around frantically.

“You’re not hurt are you?” Kabuterimon asked softly as he came to a hover.

“H-Huh?” Sayako’s head turned and suddenly she let out a terrified scream. “M-Monster! Somone help me! This monster’s got me!”

“H-Hey now,” the Digimon stammered. “It’s okay, it’s okay. I’m not going to hurt. It’s me, Kabu- ehh… I mean it’s Tentomon. I just look a bit different now.”

“T-Tentomon?” the girl sniffled as her eyes widened. “I-I’m sorry! I’m sorry I ran away!” she began to bawl.

“It’s okay now,” Kabuterimon reassured as he slowed to a hover to yell back. “Mitsuru! I’ve got her!”

“Good! Now take her somewhere safe!” Misturu yelled to him.

“Right!” Kabuterimon called and began to fly away.

“Alright! The girl’s safe!” Fat Gum snapped his sidekick’s attention back. “Fat Gum Agency, don’t let this villain escape!”

“R-Right!”

“Hoo Hoo!” They lunged toward the villain.

“What about your friend?” Sayako asked as they flew away from the scene.

“Don’t worry about Mitsuru, we’ve been through a lot together,” Kabuterimon reassured. “’l’ll go back for him later. What do you say we find your brother?”

“R-Really?” the girl asked, looking up at him. “Even after I ran away?”

“Of course,” Kabuterimon said. “Just hold on tight.”

“O-Okay,” Sayako sniffled as she held on.

As Kabuterimon flew over streets it quickly became clear that there was not a lot of room to land, nor was it a good idea to fly too low to the ground. The people below looked so small and many of them either recoiled in fear or pointed up and murmured in curiosity as the Digimon flew overhead.

“Let me know if you see him,” Kabuterimon slowed to a hover and began to look through the crowd. “All you humans look somewhat alike to me.”

“I-I will,” Sayako mumbled before looking over the Digimon’s hand and down into the crowd. U-Uh… I don’t see him…” she recoiled back. “We’re too high up!”

“I’ll try to get a little closer. But I don’t think I can go much lower without scaring anybody,” Kabuterimon began to descend. “You’re not afraid, are you?”

“I-I’m fine… I think…” the girl mumbled as she peeked back over to look around before taking a breath. “NEITO! ARE YOU DOWN THERE!?”

“NEITO?” Sayako tried again several seconds later.

“NEIT-”

“SAYAKO!” another voice called up. “SAYAKO DOWN HERE!”

“That’s my brother!” Sayako’s eyes lit up in realisation. “Tentomon, that’s my brother’s voice! NEITO, WHERE ARE YOU!”

“DOWN HERE!” As Sayako looked around she spotted a familiar sight.  

A blonde-haired boy was in the crowd, waving both his arms as high as he could into the air.

“There!” Sayako exclaimed. “He’s right there!” she pointed at him.

“Where are you look- Ah, I see him,” Kabuterimon said. “Nowhere to land though, I’ll have to go a bit further out. Hold on.”

“THIS WAY, NEITO!” Sayako yelled down as Kabuterimon began to move again.

Neito began to push his way through the crowd, well push through the people who were not quick enough to move out of his way. The further and further he saw his sister moving away from him the faster has ran, he knew he had to catch up to her. As the crowd thinned out Neito came face to face with Kabuterimon as the creature landed several meters away.

“L-Let go… of… my sister,” he demanded through his panting.

“It’s okay, she’s safe now,” the Digimon reassured, setting the girl down and allowing her to run toward her brother. “She’s not hurt, just a bit shaken up.”

“Neito!” She ran into him, knocking the tired boy down as she hugged him. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for wandering off! I was hungry!”

“It’s okay,” Neito reassured, petting his sister’s head with a tired expression on his face. “I’m just glad that you’re safe.”

“Neito! Saya!”

“Big brother!” A pair of voices called as a young woman and a girl who looked near identical to Sayako ran over.

“Thank goodness you’re both okay, I was worried sick!” the eldest of the trio scooped them all into a hug. “I hope that the two of you have learnt your lessons after tonight!”

“Yeah, I’d like to think so,” Neito said, finally catching his breath.

“Yoshi, you’re squeezing me!” Sayako and her twin exclaimed in unison.

“Ooops sorry!” the elder sibling pulled away, allowing them all to breathe as she looked at giant insect-like monster before them. “What is that?”

“Tentomon!” Sayako called as she ran toward the insectoid.

“Sayako, wait!” Yoshi called after her.

“It’s fine,” Neito grabbed her hand to stop his sister. “Whichever hero that is, they brought her here.”

“That’s a hero!? You’re kidding!?” Yoshi exclaimed to which Neito shook his head.

“Thank you for helping me find my brother!” Sayako exclaimed with a wide smile. “You saved me! Thank you! You’re the best quirk ever!”

“W-Wait, q-quirk!?” Neito stammered and fell down only to be caught by his other siblings.

“I’m just glad that you’re safe now,” Kabuterimon said to the girl before glancing back the way they had come from. “I’m sorry that I can’t stay. I have a friend who needs me. You best stand back.”

As the Digimon rose back into the air, Sayako and her siblings watched as he flew back toward the plaza with curiosity and fascination on their faces.

“Now, I think that we need to call Mom and Dad,” the eldest among them said, whilst all Neito could do was give a nod in agreement.

Esuha City Market (Central Plaza) - Osaka Prefecture

To say Mitsuru had been witnessing something straight out of a comic book was now a complete understatement of the situation he found himself in. As Fat Gum leapt between his sidekicks, surprisingly nimble for his size, and blocked an incoming swipe the one he called ‘Suneater’ had their hand stretch into tentacles which grabbed and wrapped around the villain’s arm.

“Keep a hold of him!” The hero yelled. “The Trigger should wear off soon, we’ve just have to make sure he can’t hurt anybody until that time comes!”

“I’d like to see you, try, heroes!” Kuroka fought against the bindings on his arm as he tried to pull the sidekick toward him.

“Oh no you don’t! Hoo! Hoo!” the other sidekick, Nightowl, hooted, delivering a kick into the giant’s ankle causing them to hiss in pain and swipe at them.

“You missed! Hoo! Hoo!” Nightowl rolled to the side, allowing Suneater to wrap tentacles around the villain’s other hand.

“I’ve got him…” Suneater mumbled under his breath as Fat Gum grabbed onto him.

“Make sure you hold onto him good!” the hero encouraged as the hooded sidekick began to sink into his gut. “I’ll take up some of the strain.”

“Right... Vast Hybrid!” A crab-like carapace began to grow over each tentacle, stretching all the way up to the villain’s arms.

“Hey, what is this!?” Kuroka exclaimed, suddenly finding it more difficult to pull against them as his arms were forcibly bound together. “Let me go!”

“This isn’t going to hold for long,” Fat Gum whispered under his breath. ‘There’s no one behind him. That’s good, we can use room to our advantage.’

 “I’ve got an idea, but I need your help, Suneater.”

As the hero began to explain his plan, the sidekick’s eyes widened. “I… I can’t do that…”

“Sure you can,” Fat Gum reassured. “You’re far stronger than you think you are! I believe in you.”

“Would you stop talking? You’re making me sick!” the villain yelled and began charging toward them. “If you won’t give me my brother then I’ll kill you!”

“Let go!” Fat Gum exclaimed as he dove to the side, his sidekick forced to go with him.

‘I have to do something to help,’ Mitsuru thought as he looked around for something he could use. ‘But what?’

“I’ve got you! Hoo! Hoo!” Nightowl rushed to his teammate’s aid.

It was clear he would not make it in time however. As the villain bared down on them, Suneater found himself flying out of Fat Gum’s gut and skidded to a stop several meters away.

“Fat! Get out of there!” The sidekick yelled, his eyes widening in horror as he stood there, frozen.

“Stay back!” Kabuterimon’s sudden yell was heard overhead.

His arms outstretched, the Digimon thrust his palms into the villain’s chest, causing them to cry out in pain as he was forced to skid several meters back, almost losing his balance.

“You!” Kuroka snarled.

“Kabuterimon!” Mitsuru exclaimed in relief.

“Sayako is safe and back with her brother,” Kabuterimon explained. “We don’t have to worry now.”

“That’s good news,” the brown-haired teen exhaled in relief. “Now let’s stop this guy!”

“No, wait! You can’t!” Fat Gum exclaimed.

“You ruined everything! You’re going to die!” Kuroka exclaimed as the pair lunged for each other.

Kabuterimon locked arms with the villain and the pair pushed against each other, attempting to gain ground. Using his free arms along with his legs, the Digimon shoved against his opponent, using them as a springboard to launch themselves into the air.

“QUICK THRUST!” Kabuterimon’s horn gleamed brightly and he thrusted his head forwards, a singular blade of shooting out and into the villain’s chest, causing them to roar in pain as they stumbled back. 

“That was air!” Fat Gum exclaimed in surprise.

“Oh my…” Nightowl’s mouth hung open once more as did Suneater’s.

“Nice hit!” Mitsuru encouraged. It had been far too long since he had seen his partner in action.

“Stay down! I don’t want to hurt you!” Kabuterimon spoke as the villain was already beginning to pull themselves up.

“You’re gonna have to make me!” Suddenly he lunged once more and Kabuterimon flew back in, the pair becoming interlocked once more. “Let go of me!”

“Not until you give up!” the Digimon shot back.

“Never! Not until I get my brother back!” Kuroka yelled.

“The Trigger’s not wearing off, he must have taken a genuine one,” Fat Gum said as he moved to the teen’s side.

“A what now?” Mitsuru blinked, glancing toward the hero.

“It’s a drug that increases a quirk’s strength,” Fat Gum explained as they watched the fight. ‘Alright, I’ll have to take a chance on you kids.’ “See how his tongue’s black? That’s a sure-fire way to tell if he’s taken it. Doesn’t look like he’s going to wear out for a bit. We need to wrap this up. Do you think you can knock him back so he can be restrained?”

“Yeah, I think so,” Mitsuru nodded. “Did you hear all that, Kabuterimon?”

“I heard it!” Kabuterimon exclaimed, shoving against the villain and freeing himself once more.

Raising into the air, the Digimon’s arms crossed together as a crackling sphere of electricity gathered before being released. “ELECTRO SHOCKER!”

The crackling orb flew through the air, crashing into the villain and knocking them down.

Kuroka  bellowed in agony as he crashed into the road. “No… brother…” the villain’s body sparked and fell limp as he went unconscious.  

“Nice work!” Mitsuru called up as Fat Gum and his sidekicks ran toward the villain.

Kabuterimon nodded as he became engulfed in light, beginning to rapidly shrink until he became Tentomon once more and went to stand by the teen to watch as paramedics and police officers made their way over.

Esuha City Market (Central Plaza) - Osaka Prefecture

1 hour later…

Taishiro Toyomitsu had been a Pro Hero for much of his adult life and as a result, has been involved with quite a number of incidents over the years. From countless raids and busts alongside law enforcement and his fellow Pros to routine patrols and the occasional lost child or pet, the BMI Hero sometimes thought he had seen it all. Once in a while however, something came up that made him stop and question things. Tonight was definitely one of those nights. 

It had been just a routine patrol through the city’s major biannual night market and he had just thrown an empty takoyaki tray into a nearby bin when he heard a commotion from up ahead. Of course he moved to investigate, coming across a young man and what he first thought was someone with a very strange mutation quirk. Soon however, the hero realised that this was not the case and instead began to wonder if they were in fact a ladybug with a quirk similar to that of a certain high school principal he had heard of a couple of prefectures over. They were a curious sight to say the least, made all the more curious when the pair revealed they were trying to help another kid find their missing family. It warmed his heart to see to see that there were good kids around, on tonight of all nights. 

Of course, they did find the child, but in the hands of a villain. Despite his sidekicks having arrived on the scene and the police along with other heroes on their way things quickly spun out of control. The pair took matters into their own hands, saving the girl and defeating the villain and even though several key rules were broken, even Fat Gum had to admit that he was impressed. They appeared to be good kids, despite his gut telling him something was up.

“Fat Gum,” a feminine voice began, snapping the pro from his thoughts. “I have our initial report if you would be willing to hear it.”

“Thank you for your help, Murasaki,” The hero gave a wide smile to the officer. “Please go ahead.”

“As you are aware, the villain’s name is Kuroka Kobura. Age 51. ‘Giant Cobra’ is the registered name of his quirk,” Murasaki recited, almost sounding robotic as she did. “He is currently being transported to the nearest hospital in stable condition. Despite the injuries he sustained he is expected to make a full recovery. As he took a hostage we will be contacting the victim’s family in order to collect a statement. Aside from that there were only minor injuries and clean-up is well underway. We would also appreciate your agency’s help whilst we finalise our investigation.”

“Of course you’ll have it,” Fat Gum smiled, glancing toward his sidekicks who were being dismissed by another officer. “Whatever you need, we’ll do our best to help. Anything else of note?”

“Not at this time,” Murasaki said. “Currently we are unaware of how the Kobura brothers arrived in the city, nor how they managed to transport their supply so discreetly. The youngest of the pair is unwilling to share this information along with where they were operating from. However, as of this incident we do have a lead and are looking into it. Speaking of,” her gaze fixated on the brown-haired teen and the … bipedal ladybug?

“As they were involved they must be brought in at your earliest convenience. As of this moment neither has been willing to give a contact number or address for a parent or guardian and thus we request that Fat Gum Agency houses them for the evening."

“Understood,” the hero gave a salute to the officer. “I’m bring them around tomorrow, along with my report.”

“Until then,” Murasaki returned the gesture before turning and moving toward a group of officers who appeared to be deep in conversation.

As the officer moved away, Toyomitsu returned back to his thoughts for a moment. The next several days will be busy, that was a certainty. However, that was the life of a Pro Hero and he would not change a thing.

“Hey, Kazami! Tentomon!” The pro hero took a step forward as the paramedics began to pack up. “How about you guys eat with my agency tonight?”