FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Chapter 1 Discovering Bai Hu

Theos stood at the border to the desert his hooves clapping nervously at the rocks. He had never left his mountain home before and his stomach turned as he took the first steps out into the desert. Theos is thirteen years old, three foot even at the shoulder. His tail is roughly half his height and poofy like a wolves. In fact everything above his hooves looks like a common brown wolf. However his fur is clay like in color and texture. The way the breeze hits his body gives it a streaked look that makes it look like he has standard fur. His eyes are golden and like all of his species, sunk back into his head making only the golden color visible. Giving his species an eerie look as even the whites appear black. His hooves are a deep grey in color. His ears stand upright on his head measuring about six inches. His neck is a little bit longer than a normal wolf hinting at the goat in his appearance. His nose is black and he has several canines which lead back into two sets of molars for grinding plants and even mineral stones. His goal was the city beyond. He'd heard so many tales of humans and he wanted so badly to get to know them. He took a deep breath and heard the sand crunch slightly beneath his hooves. It was softer than it normally would feel. An individual grain felt so rough and yet together they moved like a wave of water.

He walked through the hot desert his body hardening in the heat. Being made of pliable clay was not all it was cut out to be. To hot and he'd harden; too cold and the same thing would happen. He had always been careful not to be in extreme weather. The mountains though often went between the two due to the desert below and the snow above. A part of him already wanted to flee back to the rocks from whence he came. Yet he had a goal. To meets humans and have a partner of his own. The legends spoke of great deeds done by those with humans at their side. Now he wanted to do the same.

He rushed behind one of the many cacti; it's shade providing him with some coolness. He should have waited for night. Theos was yet again being to brash. Something he seemed to do often enough. He sighed to himself and looked out at the gently rolling sands. He sat there staring for a long time his mind blank but for watching the motions before him. It was like he was meditating with his eyes open.

He eventually looked up at the sky. The sun was at it's zenith and the shade was all but gone. He grunted and continued on. His ears falling down to his head and his sweat melting off him as he struggled through the heat, praying for the sun to set. Eventually it did and for a time he was relieved. He sat once more near a cacti. His throat scratchy in protest of lack of water. His body screaming for sleep and something beyond windswept sand to fill its stomach. Theos looked down his muzzle at his hooves. His tongue pressing to the roof of his mouth to taste and swallow what little saliva he had. It was a shame he didn't own anything. Not even a bucket to have carried water out here. Not even a day had passed and already he felt like he was going to die.

Theos began walking again the moment he could see his breath. How could something so hot turn so cold? Theos walked all night in the brisk, unforgiving cold of the desert. This way he would stay alive and unfrozen. Theos collapsed when the sun began to rise and the heat started to set in again. He pulled himself into the shade of a cacti and fell asleep. The danger of freezing during the night gone. His worries of the day all but forgotten. His eyes closed and he lay there motionless as though he were truly dead.

He would lay there for quite sometime until the sun hit him. It's blaring light and blazing heat in full force with it now high in the sky. He looked up slightly and gave a despairing sigh. He wobbled to his legs and began moving again to the south. He hoped he was close to the city. How far had the birds said it was again? Two or three days? Was he still going in the right direction? As he walked, his thoughts again went blank in the heat as his self doubts ran out. The ground seemed to shimmer and his mouth hung open, his tongue lolling out and his ears pressed against his head yet again. He never even noticed the buildings until he ran into one.

He slid down it's length and looked to a nearby shaded alley. He pulled himself into it; its shade feeling like a cold glass of water to him. That was when he could start to focus. He heard the hustle and bustle and as he came to he realized he was in the city. He hadn't even noticed passing through the entryway. He gave a relieved sigh.

Theos laid in the alley for quite some time before his belly rumbled. His eyes slowly open and no longer felt sick from heat stroke. Looking out into the sandy roads, his eyes try to adjust to all the different digimon and their colors. His nose twitched smelling the air, it seemed so different. Not as pure as his mountain home. He'd thought the journey would be fun and exciting but now he felt home sick. He didn't want to cross the desert again though. He wasn't sure he could make it back across a second time, at least not right now.

Theos got up and walked into the street. He turned more than a few heads but no one approached him. No doubt his rugged sand strewn appearance hinting at him being coin-less. He spotted a fountain at a cross road and hobbles into a run towards it. He looked around but no one seemed to care and he dipped part of his head in. The cool and gentle feel of the water running over his head, cleaned his sand stained clay; revitalizing the coat a bit. Bringing it back up, he laps at the water. It felt refreshing to have it enter his body. He drank until he was full and even then he drank more like he couldn't drink enough. No matter how much he drank he still didn't feel the satisfaction. He had to stop however, his belly feeling ready to burst. He still felt the pangs of hunger but it was dulled by the water in his belly.

He sighed and rested there at the fountain. His front hooves and head laying on the rim. His mind turning to what next? He had no idea where to go let alone what to do. He'd come this way to explore and learn. Yet, where should he start?

"Hey! You there! Stop messing with my fountain!" Theos lifted and turned his head towards the voice. He watched a small Jyagamon hobble towards him. His voice was deep and one look at his wrinkled skin and slightly wilted tail told him he was old.

"That fountain is not made for drinking you hear me pipsqueak?" Theos looked down at him. A classic case of the pot calling a kettle black. He cocked his head and stared; his from hooves coming down off the side of the fountain.

"Hmm," the Jyagamon said questioningly as he circled Theos. His eyes scrutinizing his form.

"I've never seen your kind before. What in the heck are you supposed to be?" He asked sniffing at Theo's hooves making him step back at his invasion and the feeling of air in the cleft.

"I'm a Theowmon... The name is Theos," he said putting on a polite smile. Even if his mind went just walk away and avoid confrontation with this rude smaller digimon who might have the backing of the town.

"I'm sorry, I didn't realize this fountain belonged to anyone. I just came down from Mount Savage. It is my first time in this city," Theos explained. Hoping he was at least kind enough to forgive him if he acted polite enough. He could just be acting gruff but it was hard to tell.

"I'll be! You came down from the mountain and crossed the desert all alone? Kids are getting braver and braver, no wonder you dived into the fountain. I mistook you for a hooligan, my name is Jared and I'm one hundred eighty years young," Jared said proudly as he raised his head away from Theos hooves.

"You must be hungrier than a starved Greymon! Come, let me cook you up something," Jareds invite was tempting. However he felt the need to decline.

"I won't take no for an answer young fella, come on and follow me I insist," Theos sighed and followed. He wouldn't turn down a free meal if it was insisted upon. He followed him to a nearby home. No wonder he had been alerted to his presence. Jared lived just a skip past the fountain.

It was dome shaped and made of what appeared to be a mixture of sand and clay. Not unlike him at this very moment. It was also oddly big for someone so small. It was big enough to comfortably fit Theos and maybe five or ten more of Jared. Jared opened the door and made his way inside. Theos followed at a safer distance letting the wooden door shut behind him. The house was one giant room, the layout of the furniture helped visitors determine what was what. The center of the home had a clay round table, much to big for a single Jyagamon to use up but the perfect size for someone like Theos. On the far end from where the table was; where Jared was hobbling towards, was the kitchen. It was primitive in nature, it had a fireplace and a pot for cooking and a single faucet for water. On the far left side of the table was a very soft clump of dirt; a small divot in the center.

On the far right side was a clay toilet and next to it a large dug out hole with a faucet. It seemed this was the bathroom but it had no privacy whatsoever. The walls inside were adorned with pictures of Jared and other Jyagamon, some very small. Some pictures were very faded and others looked clean but all of them were framed. There didn't seem to be much of anything else in this house.

Theos felt like it was the picture of comfort really. The rocks of the mountains made it impossible to get running water unless the stream was right in your home. Even then those were so rare, one often had to eat snow to get enough water for the day. Cooking was almost completely out of the question with hardly any tender to use besides scraggy brushes. In truth one couldn't call the mountains civilized at all unless you were born into a flock, and he definitely couldn't fly.

"Make yourself at home. Now, how does a mountain boy like you come all the way out here to this town," Jared asked as he started the faucet in the kitchen and began to fill the pot. Theos broke from his reverie as he stared at some of the pictures. He walked over and sat at the table. His ears perked at the sound of running water and his golden eyes watching him curiously.

"Well, I've never left my mountain home. I've heard many stories of other places though, and it made me feel small and....well naive. I figured the only way to get rid of the feeling was to educate myself," Theos explained. Many of the birds had no trouble traveling great distances. They could simply glide on the wind. He on the other hand... walking such distances was going to be troublesome.

"I may never know or see it all but I'd like to experience what I can," Theos summarized. To him that was what mattered. He was an orphan with no family. Not even an adoptive one. So he had nothing else to strive for other than himself. Maybe that was why he desired to have a partner. To defend the world. He wanted that companionship that a family provided.

"That is a good mindset to have...Theos was it? I remember when I was your age maybe even younger, I to lived on that mountain. Though those were different times. I came down with my parents when my sister got sick so we could find a doctor. I been living here in this little home ever since," Jared gave a boisterous laugh and talked as he opened up a small compartment hidden in the kitchen. Chilled air could be seen escaping its confines. He grabbed some vegetables and boned meat and placed it on a small clay counter next to the fireplace. He reached into another hidden compartment and pulled out a small dulled knife and began to cut the vegetables. Jared did not have any opposable limbs, so he clamped his paws together and used the tools with little effort. Anything proving to be to much for his paws, was solved with his mouth.

"Say Theos, where are your parents? Did you leave home without them," He questioned; his small green plant like tail wagged. It indicated this digimon did not have much company, and was happy to finally have someone to spend an afternoon with. "You came without supplies, so are you a runaway," He continued.

"Honestly I raised myself. I hatched with no one around. It's a strange thought now that I look back. I've never seen my parents or any others like me," Theos stopped and thought about it. It was true, not a single soul that looked like him lived on that mountain. They never even returned for him.

"There was a nice Unimon who once told me he'd seen them though. He said they looked like moss covered horses with dragon heads," Theos imagined it and it looked funny in his mind's eye. It was not very descriptive and in truth lead to many different imaginings. It caused him to smile.

"I never minded though. I can't miss what I never knew and I am not going to dwell on what could have been. Instead I'm going to learn and maybe become famous. Once my name has been heard about maybe they will find me," Theos looked at Jared continuing to smile. "After all searching the world for digimon who may not want to be found would be a lot harder," Theos continued. He watched the sides of Jareds mouth turn into a frown.

"I see, it might be that your kind of digimon is solitary. That might be how your folks were raised and why they left you on that mountain," Jared placed the vegetables into the pot and then began tending to the meat. Theos didn't doubt they were to a degree. It made more sense to him than the idea of simply being abandoned. He had watched the flocks tend to their eggs and babies. He couldn't think how one could willingly abandon their child. He was sure they were out there. He just hoped his parents weren't one of them.

"I've seen a few Digimon who lived that way, them poor children growing up without knowing a parents love. It's hard for us Jyagamon to fathom being a herd and all," Jared had carved up the meat and dropped it into the pot and began to stir.

"How do you like your meat son?" Jared asked.

"Medium," Theos responded. He rarely ate meat if at all. His body had adapted to the mountains so since he wasn't that strong he would eat rocks. Somehow he could digest them and get the nutrients he needed. Though he also had to eat greenery for the rest or else it would settle heavy.

"Where is the rest of your herd,"Theos says questioningly. With it only being the two of them he felt like this house was a lot emptier than it was meant to be.

"My herd is gone. I have outlived them all. I am the last of my family and have been for the last 75 years. We Jyagamon get sick rather easy. There was a time this place got non stop rain for several months. The temperature cooled unnaturally, and our bodies were incapable of fighting off the flu that the cold brought. The children died first, then my daughters. My sweetest wife Isabelle, she lasted only three months. My sons survived the rain storms but they could not bring themselves to live on in this world without their wives and children. They became depressed and wouldn't eat or talk much, as their father I tried my hardest to be their foundation but I knew exactly what they were feeling. My effort wasn't enough, I came back from the market one afternoon and they had passed to from heartbreak. They dissipated just as I entered the home. The house has been quiet ever since," Theos felt sorry he had asked. He'd had a hard time being alone but at least he had never known the pain of heartbreak. It was a wonder he didn't follow suit and passed.

"I went through a rough time after that, but I found love once more. A passing Jyagamon heard came through here and I met a lass named Anastasia several years later, she was very beautiful. Not quite as beautiful as Isabelle but you can never replace your first love," Theos smiled sadly. Maybe one day he could say the same. Though it made him wonder if it was best to have loved and lost or rather to never love at all.

Jared brought over the finished stew, "Blow on that before ya eat it. It is quite hot," Theos complied blowing it softly so that it didn't splash over. He saw the mineral stones Jared had added and smiled. It seemed they weren't that different though there was a medley of ingredients in it.

"We fell in love and married, she left her herd to start one with me. Unfortunately, we came to find out that I had become sterile. I could not give her the family she wanted, so as a man wanting her to be happy, released her to be with another. I made her a promise that I'd live to my dying day for her and my fallen herd. I don't know where she wound up but I pray to Yggdrasil every night for her happiness," Theos still felt bad but he seemed to take everything in stride. So long as Jared seemed okay he guessed that everything would be fine.

"There is more where that came from Theos, you may have as much as you like. I insist you stay with me for the night, regain your strength," Jared said not bothering to eat for himself.

"I feel I should repay your kindness somehow. You have been nothing but to me," Theos said. He slowly began to eat; his stomach suddenly feeling like a bottomless pit. He wolfed down his bowl and a few rocks. It was strange but he felt as though he'd been here forever even though it was less than a few hours. His thoughts now filled with family swirled in his head.

He got up taking the bowl in mouth and got another. He refilled it using the ladle. His mouth seemingly small opened wide as he fit the refilled bowl entirely in his mouth. He sat it down and began blowing on it again.

"I'm not very good at much but I'll do whatever I can to repay your kindness," Theos said looking past the steam to Jared.

"Bah, no payment needed Theos. You just need to live a full life, that's more than enough payment. Now, once you're done eating I'll have this warm bath ready to go. I used to wash the young ones as a group so I had it dug especially large. You should fit in just fine, the water is good for us rock hard body types. Seeps into the skin and really cleans ya good. If you like I can help ya scrub, I've had almost two hundred years of practice!" Jared began to chuckle at his own comment. He stood waiting by a large dugout. The water from the faucet steaming as it filled the hole.

"Though I have ta say, you are truly the first of your kind I have ever seen. I'm sure you get a lot a looks, you got any special ladies in your life," Jared asked as he watched the hole fill with the mineral water. Such an inquisitive old 'mon. However he was in his home so Theos could hardly deny him the information he sought.

"I could probably use the help.....and no i don't. There was a lovely Hawkmon but it was kinda frowned on. Since I can't fly," He shrugs and finishes his meal. He could never reach his back. He constantly simply rolled in the snow then went back down the mountain to warm up near the base.

"The flock was friendly enough but they said being grounded could kill them. I guess it was for the best either way," Theos said letting his bowl sit.

He approached the tub and looked uncertainly at it. He'd never bathed before. He'd roll in snow to clean himself but he definitely didn't know how to swim. It didn't look too deep though, he stepped in lightly feeling it come up to his chest as he walked in. He gave a pleasured growl as the heat seeped in; relaxing his muscles. He closed his eyes resting his head on the water. It made him look like a crocodile; resting on the surface of the water.

His initial hesitation of entering the water gone, the water turned a slight brown color as sand and dirt came off of him. The grains soaking up the water and making it murky. One could feel the roughness in the water as it rubbed against him.

Jared had a soft smile as Theos got into the water and it turned a familiar color as a surge of memories came rushing back to him. He was overjoyed for the first time in a very long time, Jared reached on top of a small shelf sticking out of the wall and pulled out a rag and rinsed it. From the same shelf there was a small clay cup of some kind of salve, he took it with his foot and mixed it into the rag and applied it to the top of Theos' head. The suds rose as Jared thoroughly scrubbed Theos head, Jared hummed as he did. The cloth clotted with his clay. Making Jared rinse it regularly. The texture of the weave imprinting itself wherever he rubbed.

"A Hawkmon gal eh? You're probably much too young to worry about all that, heck you probably don't even know what love is! Well, what true love is that is. I know I didn't know until I did! It's just something that happens and no amount of explaining can explain it. You're a good looking kid, I have no doubt you'll be able to find the one," Jared pulled on Theos to indicate to rise slightly out of the water so he can get at his back. Theos complied returning to a standing position. So this was what a bath feels like. He had to admit he was enjoying the feeling.

"I used to say this all the time to my kids and my grand kids. I said, children don't you go looking for love, you let love find you and when it does it will last forever," Jared subconsciously lifted up Theos' forelegs one at a time scrubbing underneath. Would it? Theos had to admit he knew little about the feeling. Watching and experiencing were two different things.

It seemed Jared had got caught up in the moment, he may have even regressed to the point where he was seeing Theos as one of his own. He handed Theos the rag. Theos took it in the cleft of his hooves pinching them together slightly.

"Here ya go, go ahead and wash your belly and your loins and I'll get the rinse going to wash out the suds," Jared said as he moved over to the kitchen grabbing a bucket and began to fill it with warm water. Theos began rubbing from the top down. His one hoof grabbing the side of the tub to lift himself out of the water enough to do so.

"You know Theos, I have to apologize to you. That fountain doesn't belong to me, it's the towns but I wanted an excuse to talk to you. I hope you aren't angry," Jared said looking over to Theos. Theos had suspected as much. That had been a pretty public place to put 'personal' property.

"A white lie never hurt anyone. Not to mention I got to meet you. It was a blessing hidden in a lie and I don't mind," Theos said looking to Jared. He gave him a bright smile and chuckled. He had gotten food, a bath and a place to sleep out of it. There was no way he'd look a gifted digimon in the mouth.

"As is now I wouldn't have it any other way. You are smiling and so am I and that is what counts," he continued. He finished by rubbing his sheath and balls before setting the cloth aside.

Honestly he wouldn't. To him the here and now always mattered the most. What was done was done. For better or worse no one could change the past. So he didn't look back on it; let alone dwell there. Lies and wrong doings meant nothing to him. Because with each experience he grew wiser and did his best to make sure mistakes like that never happen again.

"Glad to hear it. You remind me a lot of my first grandchild. Your personalities are nearly identical. Makes this old 'mon's heart leap and skip," Jared said as he hobbled over. The bucket he had been filling resting on his back. He reached into the water and pulled the plug, the water draining in seconds. He took the bucket and dumped the warm water over Theos, the suds washing completely away. Soon he was wet in an empty tub. He felt a bit warm inside like Jared's happiness was infectious. He shook his head clearing his ears of the water threatening to go in.

"Here ya are son." Jared said handing him a towel which was the perfect size for a Jyagamon, not so much for a bigger Theos. Theos made due however after shaking a bit. He took the towel and tossed it over his shoulders using his muzzle to rub where he could reach.

"You don't know how much it means to me that you decided to stay, it's like I got a chance to take care of one of my own again." Jared hobbled over to the table and sat down finally relaxing. Theos glanced over at him.

"It will be dark soon, you can rest on the soil if it suits you when you grow tired. Let me ask you Theos, what is your goal in all this?" He asked as he sat, Jared's stomach gurgled a bit and he patted his belly and looked up at Theos waiting for him to speak.

"My goal...." he says thinking to himself. "Beyond gaining experience. I'd really like to meet humans. They sound like interesting beings. Oh, and I heard about a place of hot water in the middle of a big area of snow. One of the Harpymon went there for a hot water treatment.....there is just so much..." Theos chuckled at himself. "I just don't know where to start."

"I definitely don't want to go back into the desert though. My body nearly became solid rock out there," He says looking at himself. It was true, he would have to wait before going back out there.

"That is rare in today's age. It's been a long time since I have seen a digimon actively seek out a human, ever since the great war and all. Are you looking for W.A.D.A. humans?" Jared asked, his stomach gurgling once more. It seemed he was so caught up with caring for young Theos that he neglected his own hunger, he simply patted it and waited for Theos to finish drying and speak when ready.

"You should really be careful, not all humans are as they appear." He added.

"Neither are all digimon...honestly I really do have so much to learn," He looked downcast a moment. "I was never told about a war. Are things okay between our species? I've heard so many things but the mountains are so isolated. Who knows how old or if even certain news reaches our ears...." He realized there was a lot more he didn't know than he had originally thought. He knew he was naive but this naive was a surprise even to him.

He'd heard so many stories as he grew up. Since he looked like a rock when he was younger, he'd camouflage himself outside of nests eating scraps. During those times he'd hear stories from parents to children or from between parents. Though no one even interacted with him directly he never felt alone. The sounds of their voices kept him company. He continued this till he became a child and could no longer hide. It didn't matter though. Orphaned as he was, many of the mountain digimon took pity on him. Some didn't, but he learned to avoid their territory and he managed to survive this long.

He didn't let his naivete get him too far down though. Sure he had more to learn than he originally thought. Yet, that also meant it was good he started this early. He was young and he would have more time to learn what he could. That is right.

"I'd love to learn from someone such as yourself...if you don't mind that is," Theos said determined. He would beat his own naivete. He was good at listening; and listening to Jared stories would help him all the more. Even if he didn't know a lot. What he knew was different from Theos. Which simply made it valuable to him.

"You are very right son. Digimon maybe more shady than humans," Jared chuckled and moved away from the table and hobbled over to the kitchen and began fixing himself a plate of what Theos left in the pot. It wasn't much but Jyagamon didn't need to eat much, afterwards he took two clay cups and placed them under the sink and ran hot water filling them both.

"Ah yes, I'd be more then happy to fill you in. I to was ignorant of the world before coming down that mountain so many years ago," Jared took cocoa beans from a plant he had been growing nearby and crushed them into the hot water. He began to stir until it turned into a mucky brown.

"Where to begin..." he asked himself hobbling over towards the table. "Well many years ago, the human government...." Jared then told the history of the world to Theos, handing him the cup of hot cocoa when he began, they spoke for hours.

Then he spoke of different kinds of humans he had met, the kind, the dangerous, the big and small. He spoke of times before the war that he learned. The different chosen humans who saved the Digital World from peril many times. How the right human could make a Digimon unbeatable. The sun had long set and the moon was already high in the sky, they had talked and laughed and talked some more. The conversation naturally fell into talking about Jared's family and the times they spent together.

"Ha ha ha....so yes my family was great. I will see them again one day, I know I will." Jared looked out the window. Theos followed his gaze the night was dark, it had to be near midnight.

"Dear me, where did the time go? I'm sorry I kept you so long." Jared said. Theos shook his head with a smile.

Theos enjoyed himself greatly. He listened intently. Commented often and laughed even more often. In the end his curiosity about the history was sated. Though he was sure there were some things even Jared didn't know he felt like he had learned it all. It made him content. The subject turned to his family and he gave him a warm smile. He could see the great love Jared had for his family. It made him feel like he had missed out on something great. Yet, just hearing about it made him happy. Even if he never experienced such things it was good to know others had. That was a great thing in itself.

"Not at all, I had fun. I learned a lot and laughed even more. I'd love to talk some more sometime," Theos says smiling. Though he could only hear a certain amount before they repeated he didn't mind. It made Jared happy and that gave him the feeling he was doing something good.

"For now though....I guess we should be heading to bed," he says also looking out the window.

"Alright son, you have yourself a good night's rest. Sleep as long as you like," Jared went over to a clay drawer he had near the bed and pulled out a large quilt. Theos naturally headed for the dirt bed. It was sewn to be big enough to fit the entire Jayagmon family under as Jyagamon sleep together as a herd. Jared threw the quilt over Theos and tucked it into his sides as he lay in the dirt.

"It has been a while, since that quilt was used. It feels good to use it again after so long," Jared thought allowed. Jared hobbled back to his dining table and sat there, watching Theos. He'd have to find another sleeping arrangement for himself, though the thought of sleeping on the soil alongside Theos crossed his mind, he felt it best not to over step. It was bad enough Jared felt like he was treating Theos like one of his own without Theos approval.

"Jared you old codger. It's time to let them go. That boy isn't one of the kids, stop pretending he is." He said allowed. Jared would stay seated at the table to eventually fall to sleep in the early morning. Theos twitched his ear at this. He wondered if he was helping or hindering Jared's healing.

"It is your bed you are welcome to join me.," Theos murmured sleepily. It was nice to be coddled like this. Theos slowly fell back into a fitful sleep not registering whither he joined him or not.

"Oh I couldn't, I don't want to intrude." He said but alas a few hours later, Jared had joined Theos though he normally slept under the soil then on it he made an exception this time around. It was an odd experience but the warmth of Theos' body reminded him of the old days. Jared was happy, he kept trying to forget but Theos made him realize that remembering made him much happier then forgetting. The memory of his loved ones gave him the urge to live and for the first time he was not lonely or felt depressed. Theos was not a Jyagamon, far from it but at this point it didn't matter, they had shared their pasts with each other and Theos had never known the care of a parent as his had left him as a newborn. Jared had known that care and was able to give it to his late family but had lost that opportunity and feeling over time, he wanted to make Theos an offer in the morning. As Jared lie next to Theos, Jared stroked his sleeping head twice before falling asleep himself.

Theos awoke close to noon the next day. He stretched slightly, his head plopping to the side and his tongue lolling in a yawn. He got up stretching and did a slight jog around the table. He squatted into the toilet and finished with a flush. He stretched again his front legs out before him. He then sat and started scratching his ear with a hoof. His tongue catching in his mane as he licked himself. His morning routine spiking and texturing his clay like body keeping it pliable and unsettled so it would not harden. By the time Theos had finished his morning routine, he'd look to the bed but not find Jared there or anywhere in the home.

He would sit there at the table watching the world outside. It seemed kinda lifeless. He saw very few digimon and it was odd. The mountains were vast so you could go hours without seeing another soul. Yet this was a city. A mining city, as Bai Hu was known for but a city nonetheless. He expected more life to it. It felt depressing and he wondered if many cities who had big jobs were the same. His thoughts wandered to the weather and the daylight and if he should leave or stay for a few days. Putting off his adventure while appealing didn't feel right. He couldn't waste time doing nothing when he could be learning.

Jared came hobbling through the front door wearing a sack on his back.

"Oh you're up Theos. Good good, just in time for breakfast. I got these fresh from the factory, the W.A.D.A. agents were especially kind today. I fail to see the rest of the cities distrust of them," Jared hobbled to the table where Theos sat and threw the sack on the table causing it to open up. Inside were stones of every color and size.

"These are minerals that can only be found here in Bai Hu. When I was a kid, I'd come home from the factory with one of these and savor the taste. Being a stone Digimon like yourself, I was able to appreciate the taste of it. I thought you might like to try some," Jared said happily. Well he hadn't guessed wrong. Theos eyes wandered over the colored stones wondering what each tasted like.

"I already ate so don't hold back," Jared hobbled away from the table towards the bed and began to clean up. Theos meanwhile decided to start eating. Trying first the red stones then the blue, and so on.

"So, uh Theos. What do you plan to do now that morning has come?" Jared asked his voice sounding a bit shaky.

"I don't really have a plan...but I think I should go experience things. Go exploring a bit you know. I traveled so far perhaps too soon..... I'm not exactly strong. So.... the stronger I get the farther I should go," he nodded to himself. It was better than setting off immediately like he had initially done. Now that he had time to look back on it, it was really stupid. He was extremely lucky he had not run into any digimon who would have done him harm.

"So maybe I can use this as my home base for awhile..." he says questioningly. He didn't wish to intrude on Jared. Yet, somehow he felt as though they did well together. He was learning so much from him and it felt like he had gained a friend, a role model, even a father to a degree. With more time he was sure they would create a similar bond to a child and parent. Yet when it came down to it, he wasn't sure if that was best. He had never had a family so it felt odd and unnatural.

Jared had finished packing away the quilt and was a little sad that Theos said he wanted to go on a journey. Jared knew all along that this was temporary but he had hoped Theos would decide to live here and grow up under his roof. Of course Jared would never say that. At the mention of Theos using his home base for a while caused Jared to closed his eyes with a smile. He turned and hobbled over to Theos and sat in the seat next to him.

"Theos, I want to tell you something...these past twenty four hours of your being here has brought up so many memories of my past and for a long sixty years I had not spoken of them. You have made me the happiest Digimon in the world in a single day, I am blessed you crossed paths with me yesterday. You are young and adventuress and I wasn't lying when I said you remind me of my first grandchild, this may be a bit inappropriate and premature but during this whole time you were my family. If my life were to expire now, I'd have no regrets. From this day on, even when I am gone from this world, this home and everything in it is your home too. Now, I cannot replace your folks, no sirree, but I'd be more then happy to act as your grandfather or father whatever you prefer. Perhaps, one day we can make it official and petition Bai Hu to grant me guardianship over you, or we can be friends. I want you to know that no matter how far you go, should it be back across the desert or all the way to the human world, my door will always be open to you lad." Jared smiled, a small tear escaping his right eye.

"I don't know how much time remains for me in this world as I approach my second century, but I would love to spend it being someone you can rely on," Jared looked at his wall with the pictures of his family. Theos followed his gaze. His heart touched by his bold statements. An open door to him? Something he never had but definitely had wanted. They hardly knew one another and yet Jared was ready to give it all to him. His heart ached. He couldn't help but to feel a connection. How could he not call this digimon grandpa after such a heartfelt admission.

"They would want me to," Jared looked to Theos.

"You don't have to return the feelings I have, after all I am just some old codger with century old memories that you just met for the first time yesterday. Heh heh heh! You might even think I'm a loon! It wouldn't be the first time ha ha ha! But these things I've said are what you planted in this old man's heart. So, you are welcomed here all the time," Jared patted Theos' hoof closest to him. Theos looked to him. Albeit he was somewhat confused at his friendliness. However Theos had to chalk it up to luck he could meet such a kind digimon after traveling so far.

"Will you be leaving after you eat?" He asked. He threw his hooves around him and gave him a big hug. He stayed there a moment. Jared's eyes widened as Theos embraced him. It wasn't the reaction he was expecting but Theos pierced his heart and Jared embraced him back. Tears rolling down the old stone digimon's face. For the first time in eighty years he had a family. It was refreshing and it was like everything dark in his past melted away in their embrace. Jared felt like his life had been rejuvenated and he could live for a third century and a fourth.

"You may be a loon but you are my loon grandpa.," Theos says smiling. He felt it was sudden and quick but he loved him for it. The old digimon had shown him nothing but kindness and he felt he should return the same. "I probably will go out for a bit but I will definitely be back before sun down and tell you all about it," He stood; his body tingling with excitement. "I hope when I am old and wizened that I am like you."

Jared couldn't bring himself to stop crying, "Oh Theos, I'd be honored to call you grandson." He exclaimed. He released Theos and wiped his eyes which were puffy and red.

Theos finished his meal shortly thereafter. He smiled and waved again giving his assurances he would be back soon before leaving the house. Theos headed down the streets to the desert to do some training. He'd run a bit, maybe push rocks around. He would get stronger. His steps hit sand before long as he was soon to make those plans a reality.

"I will be waiting." Jared said to himself with a smile. He looked to the pictures of his past and stopped when he came to his late wife. "You'll have to wait a little longer, my dear Isabelle. I have another to raise." With that he cleared his face when a final droplet escaped his eye. He jumped down from the table and hobbled off towards the kitchen to prepare supper for his new grandson.

Theos made his way down the paths of the city, back out into the desert. He felt a lot sturdier than before he started this journey. All those days of walking and struggling to survive had made him stronger. As much as he hated the desert heat it had strengthened him. He wouldn't wander far but he knew it would continue to make him stronger.

He traveled towards the exit of the city, noticing a large group of digimon young and old make their way in one direction. It was a curious sight to be sure considering their somber expressions but nothing warranting a follow. Theos continued out of the gate and into the desert sands he had traveled to arrive here. It felt different, more astonishing that he could even perform such a thing. A smile came across his face as he looked onto the horizon to see in the vast distance the mountains he lived on. They seemed so far away.

Theos continued his trek into the desert. His mindset was to train his body and grow stronger after all. It would be needed for when the time came to truly begin his journey of knowledge. Theos wasn't born with any ranged abilities. No breath attack or manipulation of the elements. All he had were his strong jaws and teeth and his malleable body. Biting through stones had always brought him attention on his mountain home. It was a proud ability. Perhaps that would be his best bet. Strengthen his already impressive teeth but how? Stones were already hard but he could break them easy and minerals made for a good snack so what could help this task?

These thoughts plagued Theos's mind as he walked just outside the outskirts of the town. There wouldn't be much in a sandy place like this that could help with that task. Nothing but cacti in every direction. Perhaps strengthening his legs were the next best thing! They would need to take him far one day after all. Theos looked around for anything that may act like weights, something heavy enough to make it even more difficult to move in the sand.

After some searching, Theos managed to find large stones sticking from the sand. They were thick and oddly shaped. It was a wonder how they got here. No matter, they'd serve his purpose. The issue now was, how did he tie them to his legs? No hands or claws meant nothing to fashion rope with, or tie it to his legs. Another conundrum, this was starting to get irritating.

Just as Theos began to think this was all for nothing, a Renamon walking back into Bai Hu happened by. It was wearing a backpack with all manner of excavation gear on it. Theos perked up, and smiled. Perhaps this digimon would help him?

"Excuse me!" Theos called out. The Renamon turned to look at him, its gaze narrowing.

"Yes?" He answered back.

"Could you help me? I'm trying to do some strength training but I lack the ability to um, tie these stones to my legs. I know it is a strange request but it will be very helpful!"

The Renamon cocked his head curiously and walked over to Theos, "Strength training? Shouldn't you be heading to work?" He asked. Theos ears fell back at the Renamon's question.

"Work? Mmm... I don't think so. I just arrived here! I'm living with my grandpa Jared." Theos replied with a wide smile. The Renamon crossed his arms and looked over Theos a moment.

"I see... okay then. I suppose it won't be to much trouble. Lucky for you, I am heading back to Bai Hu from an excavation. I have some extra rope, here, let me tie it."

The Renamon tied the stones to Theos legs, they were tight and Theos could feel the weight already. His hooves sunk a bit into the sand.

"Are you going to be okay? These aren't exactly small." Theos nodded at the Renamon. "Thank you!"

"Alright... I'll head back then. Good luck." Renamon waved and continued on. Theos couldn't do the same given his current position. "Thanks! Good bye!"

Theos looked at his new weights and the desert before him, "Alright... time to work up a sweat!" Theos began to pull at the stones. The extra weight causing him to strain his face. His teeth clenched and ears against his head. He closed his eyes and looked down as he tried to pull. His hooves disappeared under the sand, trying to find some type foundation. Theos fell on his belly and panted heavily after a moment getting no where.

"Okay... this sounded a lot easier in my head." He thought allowed, "I can't give up though... I have to keep trying!" Theos stood after a moment and went back to it. The Renamon watched from a distance a while before heading back into Bai Hu. Once inside, he found a Mud Frigimon, a city guard, and told him of Theos.

Hours went by before Theos had worked enough to want to end his session for the day. The sun had begun to set as he laid out on the sand. Biting at the rope around his legs to snap them free. "That was intense..." Theos thought looking behind him, he smiled when he saw the small drag marks in the sand behind the stones. He had managed to pull them just a little bit. He could certainly feel it in his burning leg muscles.

"Well... that's all I have the strength for. If I try any more, my legs will break off. Ha ha ha." Theos stood and shook the grains of sand embedded in his body. He began trotting back to the city limits. His legs felt like jello now that they were free from their weights. Perhaps a quick run to get them back into feeling like legs would help. His muscles protested lightly at the thought. He was young though, he'd heal quickly.

Theo's set off trotting in the sand. It wasn't like the snow of the mountains even though it was made of many small pieces. It was constantly moving and it didn't hold his hoof prints. It was no wonder he had heard horror stories of others getting lost in the desert. They couldn't see where they've been.

Again his mind wandered as he trotted around the outskirts. His tail wagging happily as he thought of different things. From experiences he's had to just random stuff like, cactus flowers were pretty but impossible to pick or smell without getting poked. He loved his home but this place was just as beautiful in its own way.

He started heading back to his newly found grandpa. He was such a kind fellow taking him in as he had. He wished he could do a lot more for the old digimon. He trotted back into town.

Theos trotted back into the dome stretching slightly. It felt good to be home, let alone to have a place to call home. It felt oddly reassuring. While he was in the desert, he was regretting having come down because he had struggled to move. Yet now he didn't regret a thing. He found family and a home. His feelings had changed so fast, not to mention his life.

"I'm home," he declared.

Jared had been working since the time of Theo's departure, "Oh! Welcome home young one. Supper is just about ready." Jared said bringing over a plate.

"I gathered some special minerals, I hear they taste very much like a hamburger...whatever that is. So, how was your time out? Did you enjoy yourself?" Jared asked placing a bowl of water next to Theos' food. He then sat down himself with a bowl and began to eat. Theos nodded in response.

Theos let out a smile as his nose took in the aroma of dinner. He'd never been so well fed in his life. Sure he could eat all the rocks on the mountain but there was nothing like having it made into a proper meal. His tail wagged and he approached the table.

"You look like you've been busy too," Theos said as he watched Jared.

"Make any new friends?" Jared asked. Theos nodded as he dug in. He swallowed before answering.

"It was pretty fun. I met a wandering Renamon and he helped me train a bit with some stones I found in the desert," Theos said before taking another bite.

"It was hard work but I feel a bit more accomplished now. I did a quick jog after wards so my legs feel really tired now." He continued to eat and recounted the day. Finally he was full; his tail giving a wag of contentment.

"Thinking I'll try and move the stones a little farther tomorrow, I'll be sure to bring rope this time though. How I'll tie it, I dunno but I'll think about it tomorrow!" Theos hummed thoughtfully. Jared listened to Theos' tale about his day and nodded as he went along.

"A wandering Renamon huh? How nice of him to help you. Just don't work to hard alright?" Jared said with a smile. He continued to eat when suddenly, there was a banging at the door.

"Oh. I wonder who it is? It's awfully late." Jared hopped down from the table and walked over towards the door.

"Who is it?" He asked from the other side.

"Nanimon!" A voice shouted.

"Nanimon?" Jared opened up the door to the small bald, round man.

"How can I help you Nanimon?" Jared asked.

"There have been sightings of a quadrupedal digimon much like yourself, wandering the town." Nanimon began, "It seems he is new to town and has been staying here and had been spotted training just outside town. I have been ordered by the officials to officially look into whether this is true or not. Can you verify?" Nanimon asked. Jared listened to the man and nodded.

"Why yes...he's my grandson." Jared replied.

"Your grandson? You're aware that any digimon coming into Bai Hu to stay is required to earn that right and work in our mines correct? It is the law. Why have you been harboring him and keeping him from his civic duty?" Nanimon questioned.

"I'm sorry, he's just very young. I don't think he should be made to work just yet." Jared said. Nanimon forced his way into Jared's house in response.

"That is not for you to decide, Metal Etemon's will cannot and should not be ignored! You there, boy, front and center." Nanimon said pointing at Theos.

"If he's old enough to train by himself, he's old enough to die working for this city." Nanimon exclaimed. Jared looked saddened as Nanimon ordered Theos to approach him. Theo's approached with his ears down. The nanimon was rather scary and mean to grandpa. He swallowed slightly and stood there his tail still and drooping. His voice was suddenly gone. If it was the law he had to do it. However he couldn't claim to like this digimon. It felt like he had done something wrong. He had been here less than three days and was already in trouble.

"Please, he's just a child!" Jared pleaded. "I said you are not one to decide that! What's your name boy?" Nanimon exclaimed.

"I'm Theos," he managed to spit out. His heart was pounding, he wondered if the nanimon could hear it.

Jared drew quiet as his face drooped. Nanimon looked over Theos, up and down. "How old are you boy?" Nanimon barked making Theos flinch.

"Are you aware that living in this city is only allowed if you agree to work for it? Your grandfather is too old, therefore you should be working the mines in his stead!" Nanimon said his hands firmly on his hips. Theos wanted to respond but he wasn't being given much of a chance.

"Sir, he has just recently arrived. He is still settling in." Jared added.

"Recently implies before today. That is plenty time to settle in. We aren't running a hotel, this is a very crucial economic business and everyone in this city must supply their labor to that cause. You're only allowed to stay here because you served your time. He however, has not earned it." Nanimon said.

"What do you have to say for yourself boy?" Nanimon asked.

"I'm sorry mister," Theo's said plaintively. Being naive wasn't really an excuse in this case. He doubted the nanimon would accept it anyway. It was better not to make matters worse.

"I'm also thirteen digital years," Theo's said responding to his earlier question. He wasn't sure if it still mattered though, either way it seemed the nanimon was dead set to send him into the mines. It made sense in a way. If it was expected of others then he would do it if for no other reason than to prove he could help. Nanimon listened to Theos and seemed disgusted.

"Thirteen huh? You're thirteen and still acting like you're freshly hatched! Pathetic! Listen boy, if you're going to make it in this world you had better man up and grow up quick or this world will crush you! When I was thirteen I was already making a name for myself! I was so popular I had to sneak out in disguise to prevent women from trying to claim me as their own!"

Theo listened and frowned. Acting like he was newly hatched? Did newly hatched digimon act differently in different areas? When he was newly hatched he was always frightened and couldn't do anything. Though this digimon was in fact a bit frightening, Theos could do things now that he couldn't back then. He simply cocked his head as the nanimon boasted.

"U-um...sir...it's late. Could we get back to our night now?" Nanimon glared at Jared.

"How rude! I was in the middle of teaching your mutt an important life lesson! Now...where was I? Ugh. I forgot...well, whatever! Just know this boy, I expect you to be bright and early outside the factory! If you wanna continue to live here with your grandfather then you'll need to be accustomed to how things work around here! The next time I come back here, should you fail to listen, will be to throw you out of this city got it!?" The scruffy digimon exclaimed. Jared felt powerless to help his new family and could do nothing but watch as his grandson was ordered into work.

"Now you two have a fantastic night...now if you'll excuse me...I have a whole bottle of booze waiting for me back at home." Nanimon then stormed out of the house closing the door behind him. Jared stayed silent at first in the middle of the room, staring at the door. He felt terrible that he couldn't do anything to help Theos and was ashamed to look at him but did so anyway.

"Theos...I-I'm sorry...this is all my fault...I should have never burdened you with staying here." Jared's eyes welled up.

"You don't deserve to work so hard at your age, you should flee the city first thing in the morning..." Jared said. It would break his heart to see Theos go, but he did not want Theos to feel forced into this cities lifestyle especially after he had only just begun to explore the world. Theos looked at the crying Jared. His heart went out to him.

"What is the miner's life like," he asked. If Jared was convinced it was a horrible and terrible lifestyle that would break his heart to see Theos go through he would go. However some part of him told him to stay and work this mine. To discover why it was so valuable to this place. Maybe learn to respect the work even though he may dislike those behind it like nanimon. He wasn't going to say yes to leaving not till he experienced it or understood it maybe even both. Jared cleared his eyes when Theos asked him what the work was like.

"It's very difficult labor...I worked the mines nearly my whole life. Being akin to stone and heat, my kind is perfect for that kind of work. We can take temperatures well above one hundred degrees and continue to work at our best. The individual tasks differ but all of the work is life threatening. Working for this city, one literally puts their life on the line. There is no currency used here, everything is done with one's labor. Under special circumstances, one can have a business outside of the mines. Though because I told him you were my grandson...they'll work you in the mines...I'm afraid you'll be hurt...or worse." Jared moved to embrace Theos.

"I could not live another moment if something were to happen to you." Jared said.

Theos heart leaped into his throat. So many risked their lives in those mines. It makes sense they asked the same of him. However feeling Jared's heart-filled plea how could he deny him.

"So please, all though seeing you go will be difficult. Don't risk your life for my expense. Perhaps I could request W.A.D.A. to protect you." Jared replied. He would respect whatever Theos decided but he continued to worry for him.

"Okay, I will go," Theos said and hugged Jared. His head hanging over his shoulder.

"What about you though? Since they know you harbored me and let me escape. Will you be okay?"

He worried for his grandpa. What if there was a backlash for him leaving? He hated the thought, maybe he could come with him. To W.A.D.A. or to a mountain, forest anywhere but here. He'd lived most his life here though. He doubted he would leave now. Jared smiled and rubbed the back of his head. He tried to keep a straight face when Theos asked Jared's fate.

"Oh...no need to worry about me...whatever happens to me I'll deal with it." Jared knew very well what Metal Etemon would do to him. He'd force Jared to work to his death in Theos place. Jared would not lie to Theos should he want a real answer. Though given Jared's poor attempt at hiding his emotions, Theos could no doubt tell a fate would come against Jared and one not so good.

"W.A.D.A. will make sure you're safe. I know they will! So don't worry about me, okay?" Jared said.

Jared was hiding something he could feel it. The question was whether or not to push the matter. Some nagging part of him felt the fear of death. Like somehow his leaving would lead to it. Jared would risk his life for him? A digimon he just met? Even though they had become close in such short time. Such a sacrifice was only if they truly loved one another right?

"I won't run...not if it means your life. If you are sacrificing yourself for me I am more than willing to do the same for you," Theos said. "I am young and strong. I can work the mines if I have to. If you want me to leave then come with me. We can find the herd of your second love. You could be with your own kind again. Be free of a place that would see you dead."

Why was he getting so emotional? Tears had started flowing with each word. His voice rose as he spoke that last line. He wasn't angry so why did he raise his voice? Or was he? Was he angry at those who would destroy the happiness he had found? Was it anger or sadness he felt? It was so hard to tell. He sniffled trying to stop the tears.

Maybe it would have been better if they hadn't met now. He felt guilty. His guilt had grown ten fold with the thought he could cost grandpa his life. Never in his life had he felt this. It felt wrong and unnatural. Jared was surprised at Theos passionate outburst. Theos said he would work, or only leave with Jared. Jared was too old to migrate now, he'd die for sure if he left. He couldn't allow Theos to be victim of that.

"Theos...I can't leave...my body could not take the travel." Jared closed his eyes to fight back the tears. "Metal Etemon won't kill me, he'll make me work the mines in your place is all...I've done it before. I'll be fine...just please get yourself to safety. If you work the mines, your life will be in danger more than mine." Jared frowned. "I cannot handle losing you, not after I just found you." Jared said softly.

"If...if you insist on working...I won't stop you...but...you have to come back to me. Always. Alive." Jared said. "You are forbidden to die before me. Okay?" Jared couldn't hold back any longer and tears rolled down his face.

If he couldn't survive the travel how could he survive the mines? Theos shook his head. He would be staying after all. He would grow big and strong in the mines and stay here til Jared passed on. No matter how long. He didn't want him to die because of him.

"I'll stay," Theos said just barely above a whisper. "I guess I'm going to need a lot of sleep tonight," He said suddenly smiling. It was all settled; tomorrow he would work the mines. And for many more days after that. He would do his best to keep them both alive.

"I promise that i will not die before you. No matter what, I will always find my way home," He declared while smiling but a tear stained face.

Jared was still worried but he had to be strong for Theos, he had to trust him...just like he trusted his real family. He finally gained back the love he had lost so long ago and he now had to run the risk of losing it again, only for certain this time, he'd not outlive Theos. He would take his own life should Theos ever die on Jared's account.

"Good. I'm going to hold you to that promise. I promise to have a warm bath and food ready for you every day I see your smiling face come back home. Okay? Now, off to the bath with you then bed. You have an early day tomorrow. If you need help reaching hard to get places I'll be just in the next room" Jared said shooing him off. Jared made his way to the bedding area and began preparing their sleeping quarters. Jared would need to make another bed, he thought.

Theos nodded and headed into the bath. It's water a lot less murky this time. He sank into the water letting it slosh onto his back. He wondered what it would be like. Was it a hellish volcano like place he had in his mind or dark and dank like the caves back home. He shifted his body and began to wash. No use dwelling on it, he would know tomorrow.

"I'll have to go to the market tomorrow and make another bed now that you'll be living here. I don't want to crowd you at night after all." Jared said so Theos could hear. He kept dwelling on the mines and the hell they'd no doubt bring to Theos, so he did what any man in his situation would, prayer. "Yggdrasil...please watch over my grandson..." He whispered. Theos hardly heard what Jared said, being so lost in thought. He eventually got out and grabbed a towel; throwing it over himself. He shook into it drying himself as much as possible before heading into the bed. He curled down into it.

"I don't mind," he said as it finally hit him, the words Jared had said moments ago. Slowly he began drifting off to sleep whether Jared joined him or not.

Jared smiled, truth be told he did not want to separate himself from Theos. His kind were very family oriented so when they were alive, one bed was all they needed. Jared laid next to Theos and cuddled before he himself would fall to slumber. It would be a very quick night however, for Theos would soon learn that Bai Hu was not anywhere near as kind as Jared. He would soon learn exactly the kind of life Jared and his family lived all of these years.