#renaimp

But he learns, eventually, even if it means he has to learn it the hard way (Leomon’s death will always haunt him, I’d wager). Like I said before, the Digital world in this universe is cruel, but based on Leomon’s words, you can get around it by knowing when to fight and when to bend over. It’s a very practical lesson, I feel, that many parts of western media don’t truly get: you need both hard and soft power in the right moment with the right people to get a point across. Sometimes words can change a person’s mind, but in other situations you must use strength; when there are enemies to defeat, sometimes it’s the only way. It’s not about being a killing machine, or a useless passive tool; you just have to know when to strike.

So, we can read this as the Digimon gaining a conscience and mind besides what they were programmed, or what the habitat of the Digital world gave them. Ironic enough, the original Digimon abandoned the human, only to later gain a sense of “humanity” of their own by interacting with human children, decades later. Funny how it comes along.

·      Other Symbolism and imagery

Well, here I’ll point out other symbolism and imagery that didn’t fit into religion or culture. Pop culture references, slang, and the like.

First up, let’s start with Beelzebumon’s design, which, I think I said before, not only calls back to Phantom of the Paradise, but also to a bird. Notice the sharp helmet, the black wings, the talon-like fingers…He looks downright bizarre, doesn’t he? Compared to other more humanoid Digimon, he looks a little uneven.

Yet I think the birds imagery is there for a reason, since it can allude to many things. It can allude to ravens, who are often associated with death with Western culture; but also but generic carrions / birds of prey, since they’re the most aggressive types of birds, and as we know, Beelzebumon early on is presented similar to an icon of Death the series has: he brings doom, and even if he manages to kill only one character, his actions manage to shape up the rest of the series.

I also think it’s fascinating that the Deva that suggests him to make the Deal to get power is Catsuramon, based on the dog in the Chinese Zodiac. In more colloquial terms, hitmen who are used by men in high places to get rid of possible enemies are often called “dogs” since they’re used often to do the dirty work; ea “take out the trash” so that a powerful man’s public perception/reputation isn’t soiled. In a way the Devas use Beelzebumon in a similar manner, just use him as a mercenary to take out the pesky kids who would otherwise ruin their plans. They don’t care about his wellbeing or struggle, after all, he’s nothing to them; just the convenient hitman for their plans to go as intended. So what if they ruin a potential friendship between him and the gang? It it not of their concern, and if he goes too out of hand (like it did happen in ep. 35), well, you know the saying “put the dog to sleep”? I reckon if Beelzebumon hadn’t been so powerful and there had been more Devas around at that point, maybe it would’ve been his end much earlier on.

And again, the symbolism! Ruki initially used Renamon as an “attack dog” as well, not really concerned for her wellbeing but just using her to get to a goal. Remember how I said earlier Renamon and Guilmon’s fight is framed to resemble more an actual dog fight than anything more animeish or fantastical. I do love how the show clearly states that self-reflecting and maturing is what distinguishes our heroes from the “villains”; Ruki learns from her mistakes and begins to trust and care for Rena, while the Devas just wallow in their pride until the end of the world comes and bites them in the ass.

Remember what I said before about Vajramon, about how he’d be important later on? His crush is interesting to notice because, in an oddly manner, it’s eerily similar to how Impmon’s interactions with Renamon are showcased. Vajramon urges for Renamon to ditch the humans and live with the Digimon, on their own terms. It’s not so dissimilar to how Impmon initially tried to lure Renamon in to his side, to convince her that living wild and free is ten times more exciting than being at the mercy of the humans.

The red shoes comparison in ep. 27 is also good to point out again since I’ve read some analysis of the fairy tale, and apparently, the story could be read as an analogy to temptation and redemption (religious redemption)….Just in the same episode where our demon boy gets tempted to make a pact with the devil, something he’ll regret later on…

I’ll have to add more to this idea. The comparison with the Red Shoes is interesting because usually, unless it delivers vital information or adds importance to the plot (like say, Princess Tutu with Swan Lake), fairy tales and references in children’s media tends to be very simple, well known facts or stories, so that more audiences can understand the reference without getting lost. Here’s the thing tho, while the Red Shoes was popular for a few years, it’s nowhere near as popular as other fairy tales like Cinderella or Red Riding Hood or even Hans Christian Andersen’s other works like the Litle Mermaid or the Ugly Duckling. If the writing staff wanted to pinpoint something, they could’ve easily used an invented fairy tale or brought forward a local Japanese folktale. So, the Red Shoes is added there because it can relate to the plot, but again, also look at it from a symbolic perspective.

In most analysis of the fairy tale, the story can be read as an allusion to temptation and redemption, specifically of the religious variety. So now, we can see, well, what’s the big deal? Since neither Juri, Takato or Jen have those stories in their characters arcs…But you know who does?

Bingo.

And you know who has his prominent scene where he sells his soul to the devil in the same episode?

Bingo bingo bingo.

·      East and West, and the Relative “Othered” Culture

Digimon takes a lot of cues from real-life mythologies to base the designs of their monsters, nobody denies that. We’ve spoken of the religious aspect of these two, but what about the cultural aspect? Does it ring as true?

Well, yes. For religion shapes a lot of our cultures as well, and informs us a lot about our mindsets, our beliefs, and other aspects that form our selves. But other aspects of culture can flourish apart from religion; family, education, work or anything else that shapes how we function in our society. Digimon can take these elements and mold them to shape new aspects of the characters.

First, we can explain that Digimon, as an anime, is a product made mostly by a Japanese staff, with Japanese writers and producers, and as we can infer, Japan, like any other country; has a different culture than the one we (the West) is accustomed to. Heck, that can be applied to each Western country as well, since each of us differ in some aspects (where it be food, language, beliefs, etc etc). Based on what most of the writers grew up with, they were probably influenced by their surroundings when writing the series.

So where does Renamon and Impmon fit in all this? Well, compared to the other main Mons, the two are the ones that represents the most an specific culture, like religion.

I already explained enough in religion, so I won’t repeat much, but it’s interesting to point out again. Renamon is influenced with a lot of imagery from different Eastern religions, from Taoism and Shinto, and she’s not only related in religious terms, but also culturally. She’s very reserved, and that’s a stark contrast against the other Child Digimon who are much chipper and chattier. In TVTropes, I read, instead, that her quite, withdrawn behavior is a nod to the Yamato Nadeshiko model, an archetype in Japanese media that refers to the “ideal Japanese woman”, an archetype for a female character that is idealized as what the perfect Japanese woman would be. Quiet, elegant, but also strong and able to withhold struggles. Now, I stated before Renamon was written as agender, as stated by Konaka, but in some episodes of the series sometimes the writing schews towards favoring a more feminine view of her (characters calling her “beautiful”, the association with cherry blossoms…), and with that idea in mind, she clearly personifies this ideal. She’s strong, she’s never left without agency, but she also never loses her composure and always respects her superiors. Based on her design and her leitmotif (the flute whenever she appears), she withhelds her culture in great passion (in most dubs, she’s the only Digimon that keeps her attacks in JP, whereas the others have theirs translated or are just basic Eng), and again, she’s sent as the partner to the girl that belongs to a more traditional Japanese household.

Being a Digital Monster, she can’t belong to any specific culture, but if we can apply the idea of “coding” (adding certain characteristics of a culture or a race to a character that in principle wouldn’t have (example: an alien), but without outright stating it), then we can infer the writers intended for her to be read as Japanese. Yet, this has a different effect on her than on Impmon. I’ll speak of that later.

Impmon instead represents Western imagery in almost every aspect of him. His design resembles a little bit Mickey Mouse, the supposed “icon” of Western cartoons, or even Bimbo from Betty Boop. A mascot, really. A cute trickster cartoon meant to entertain children; makes sense to pair him up with the youngest Tamers, then.

His dialogue in the Japanese dub is peppered with random words of English as well (he mentions “pride” and “baby” quite pronounced in episode 8). Usually in anime this is a shortcut to point out the character has influence from the West, or is American; usually it’s done to point out how different the character is from the rest of the cast, who are more prominently portrayed as Japanese, or how the character attempts to look “cool” by speaking another language. Think of many English speaking characters in Western media who attempt to speak French / Italian to seem “sophisticated” or “romantic” (Cultures will idealize/romanticize and exoticize other cultures, it happens all the time, no matter the culture).

The American influence is also in Beelzebumon. The leather jacket, the bike, the rock theme tune he’s associated with…Commonly associated with the greaser /rock and roll movement, which took place in America. You can recall the number of “bad boys” influenced by this look in media in general. It also has influence on how Japanese media portrays bad boys, since he has blonde hair.

Now, you’d think it’s nothing special, but in anime blonde hair is very special. In Japan, people with natural blonde hair are uncommon to see, since it’s a very homogenous race. People with natural blonde or red hair are uncommon, or foreigners, so often in an anime or manga, unless the character is stated to be from another country, if they have blonde hair it’s often to showcase how they “stand apart” and are “noncomformist”. A large subsection of Japanese youth who bleach their hair often do it to stand out from the rest of society, and sometimes they can be associated in media with gangs and delinquent behavior. You see a bit of this with Yamato in Adventure, that portrayed his initial aloofness and lone wolf nature with his design (also the “aloof musician” and his partner being a literal wolf- he’s based a lot on American ideals of a bad boy); but we also see this complete with Beelzebumon, who’s the “stranger” of the team. And well, gotta fit the “bad boy” aesthetic. (Notice western biker bad boys often are brunettes; take that into consideration)

And yes, whenever a series does attempt to interpret a culture, it will inavertedly “other” this culture in contrast to the homogenous, dominant, hegemonic culture. There’s always an Other, in any story. Here in Digimon, it’s the inverse of how would Western Media do so. While with Renamon, it’s used to emphasize her connection to the country, and show her as dignified and traditional; with Impmon is to further emphasize his role of the “outcast” in the group, how he initially stuggles to fit in with the others in many ways. He’s too American initially to get along with the other more Japanese characters.

…And yet, it is interesting, again, to pinpoint, the character that bonds the most with the “foreigner” is the one that’s most wrapped around Japanese traditions. Hmm…

·      Impmon’s redemption, and his placement in the franchise as a whole /Second chances

Digimon as a franchise is not a stranger to redemption arcs, or giving second chances to those who wronged. Tailmon, Ken, Oikawa, Kouichi and others have committed mistakes in the past, or wronged the main characters in significant ways, yet the narrative always attempted to find a way for them to right the wrongs and let the characters commit to turn to the best versions of themselves. Sometimes they succeeded, sometimes they lost, sometimes they almost gave up their lives…What matters here is that there was always a chance.

So, where does this go? Well, that Impmon is in a similar position. He probably fits the classic Redemption Arc to a Tee, considering he was conscious of all his decisions, and wasn’t brainwashed/didn’t know better to make his decisions. Yes, you could say Catsuramon influenced him, but all of his choices were done by his own decision. So he wanted power…And he got a taste of what unlimited power can give you, and where it can lead you, if you have no control. He goes to a point where he basically asks himself “was this worth it?”.

What is important to note is while it is possible to redeem yourself, it is not easy, for these characters have to sacrifice. They hurt others so much, endangered their mission, so they must understand some things may not be so easy to achieve. They have to gain empathy, to fully turn good, they must realize the damage they cause to others in the first place. They end up even losing loved ones on the way (Wormmon, Wizarmon), but it’s what finally leads them on the path to goodness, I think.

What is also vital is that these characters are contrasted against the villains, which showed that, despite their cruel nature, they have a conscience, a sense of empathy, something which the villains lack. They have to stop and think, and realize that their actions have consequences.

It’s also interesting to point out that often, these characters don’t turn to villainy out of a sense of arrogance or pride; but the franchise cleverly shows that it’s often grief and misplaced emotions that fuels them to the dark side (it doesn’t help that a wicked figure is often nearby to tempt them). Ken, Oikawa and Tailmon turned evil out of the grief of losing loved ones or living a life of resentment, abandonment and pain. We’re given enough depth to understand that under different circumstances, they wouldn’t have taken this path. Similarly, I feel Impmon wouldn’t have taken his path if he hadn’t been beaten so badly by Indramon and then exiled himself away from the Tamers (who were ready to welcome him into the team at that point).

Also, curiously enough, the atoner characters in Digimon often are associated with purple. Wonder why…

·      Moon queens and their doomed romances /Parallels in couples from other media

Here I’ll focus mostly on other mythology/ media and the moon association, since it adds a lot to the discussion.

I said before, and I’ll repeat it again, but Renamon is closely associated with the moon. She’s framed in shadows often, her first transformation into Kyuubimon is during the full moon, and Taomon and Sakuyamon feature the moons in their transformations.

Incidentally, their first meeting is on a night of a full moon, her natural element. It could lead to a suggestion of how he tries to tempt her to the “dark side”, but it cannot work on her because the moon is her mother, she bathes in starlight and shadows; she feasts on moonglow and clouds. The darkness knows her, so it cannot scare her.

Interestingly, a lot of mythology related to moon maidens/moon goddesses are love stories. Like the Greek Moon Goddess Selene who fell in love with Prince Endymion from Earth (that’s the basis for Princess Serenity’s story in Sailor Moon), or the Chinese Moon Goddess Chang’e who was forced to live on the moon once she was separated from her lover. It is interesting that goddesses who are associated with the moon, in two very different culture (Ancient Greece and China) have their goddesses star in love stories with a mortal man. (we could say that Impmon, in this analysis, is the man- the man who sinned, but was allowed redemption- wow, symbolism from three different religions at once!)

Of course, it is interesting to point out that in Shinto religion, the Moon god is male, which would be a contradiction to our analysis, but I still feel you can make the connection work well.

...And yet, once she evolves into Sakuyamon in the human world, one shot of her has her framed similar to Amaterasu, the sun goddess of Shintoism. Symbolism? You decide.

They even share a few parallels with Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow, from Game of Thrones / A Song of Ice and Fire. Dany, like Renamon, is often associated with the moon (“moon of my life”), and has a mystical connection with a magical creature (dragons, kitsunes) and magical white hair. They’re seen as goddess-like figures in their narratives. (Mhysa, Mother of Dragons, the Unburnt) They both tend to be strong and ruthless to their enemies, but compassionate with their loved ones. They also both have a storyline that they start as pawns of someone else, only for them to end up as Queens in their own right.

Both of the female in these couples are often associated with the East, while the male is associated with the West.

Jon doesn’t have much in common with Impmon/Beelze aside from the black/death/raven association (“Lord Crow”), but they both struggle with accepting their identity as they are (a weak runaway Digimon, a bastard in a prejudiced society), yet both manage to go through stories where they turn being from the lowest of the low to having some of the largest roles in the cast, even gaining power in the process (Lord Commander/Prince That Was Promised, Reformed Demon Lord). Finally, both couples have a lot of foreshadowing and symbolism as well (“a flower grew from a chink of ice in the wall, filling the air with sweetness” / “The Moon has kissed you, Lord Snow…”). And both stories are deconstructions of their traditional genre (High Fantasy/Monster Pet anime). Guilmon, like Drogon, is the red and black dragon whom can have a dangerous side if left untreated, but both Takato and Dany need to learn how to control their children so that they cannot keep causing uncontrolled damage. And well, both stories really start to get going once the birth of a dragon comes forward. XP

And well, the three main Digimon are also the same color as Dany’s dragons! Coincidences, I know, but I like it.

·      Death and the Maiden / Hades and Persephone / Life, Death and Rebirth

Now, at this point this is pure speculation, since this is mostly a Western concept, and probably does not have an exact Japanese equivalent; but often ideas and similar archetypes can be found in almost all cultures and mythologies across the world, and I liked the pattern where this was going; so, better to mention it just in case.

The concept of Death and the Maiden is a very old archetype, harkening back to a set of paintings done during Renaissance Italy, where it depicts a young woman in a passionate relationship with the personification of Death, often in the form of a skeleton. It’s an art movement meant to display the natural contrast between Life and Death  (the woman representing life and birth, and the skeleton representing, well…Death; precisely). People have caught on to this movement, and began applying similar concepts in other pieces of art, like literature or theatre.

This has even earlier origins in the Greek Myths of Eros and Psyche and Hades and Persephone; where a pure female figure, often a goddess symbolizing life and spring; falls for a decadent godlike being that symbolizes Death and Otherness.

It’s a tale as old as time, basically; the idea of a beautiful, heavenly woman falling for a demonic monster-man. It’s a staple of almost every culture and every time period. It’s in the Epic of Gilgamesh, the first story ever told in the written world, with Enkidu and Shamat; Greek Myths, as I said before, like Eros and Psyche and Hades and Persephone. Phantom of the Opera (and its variations…Yes, Phantom of the Paradise can go here), The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Man Who Laughs, East of the Sun and West of the Moon, Wolf Children, La Belle et La Bête and its million adaptations, King Kong, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, the X-Men (specifically romances with either Nightcrawler, Wolverine or Beast; since they emphasize more the message of “my lover is a monster but he’s truer than most “normal” people”), Mamoru Hosoda’s Belle (oooh, Hosoda, the same director of Our War Game…), Ancient Magus Bride, The Shape of Water, hell the whole concept of a “bad boy” lover can be this, if it’s emphasized his “Otherness” or “animalistic” tendencies…What these stories have in common is the “monstrous lover” aspect and elements like Redemption, Compassion for the Other, and the Transformative Power of Love. We can even see these simplistic storylines appear in more mature works like Jane Eyre or A Song of Ice and Fire (and yes, even Dany has a similar “Beauty and the Beast” motif in her story, yet it is not reciprocated from her side). Add to it elements of the “Byronic Monster” that first popped up in Frankenstein, about giving pathos and dimension to the monster figure, beyond being just a threat to be eliminated; and there you have elements that adapt to current Monster romance stories.

So, I find this concept when applied to Renamon and Impmon fitting, especially if we can apply it to their Ultimate/Mega levels. Sakuyamon is framed specifically as a Defense Digimon, and her transformation emphasizes sakura blossoms, which are a flower that blooms especially at the start of spring. She’s drawn with so much grace and elegance, one could associate her figure as that of a goddess (fitting, since she was named after one). Sakura blossoms symbolize often new beginnings, rebirth, purity and beauty; which would place Sakuyamon in the Persephone/Shamat/Beauty role in this scenario.

The Beelzebumon…Now, his story is not based on his looks, which is the basis of most of these monster stories, but he’s still associated with a “monstrous figure” in his darkest moments during the story. A threat to be vanquished. Everything in his design alludes to evil, death and the devil; as I’ve previously commented on. Not only is his name taken from a well known demonic figure (Beelzebub), but details of his design call back to common characteristics of animals associated with death. His wings, long and black, call to the raven; a bird often associated with ill omen and cemeteries. He even has other elements that call back to birds: the beak-like helmet, or his long, talon-like fingers. His design seems to allude to a bird of prey or a carrion bird, known for feasting on corpses. Add to that that he gruesomely kills Leomon, setting up the following events of the second part of the series; and his backstory in other Digimon media as a Demon Lord…He can be easily associated as the Lord of Death in this universe. The Hades to Sakuyamon’s Persephone in this scenario.

So, with such big contrasts, one would think they would be polar opposites, right? Have nothing in common, no? Well, that’s where we differ. In many of these “Beast and Beauty” / “Monster and Maiden” stories, they ultimately, against the judgement of others, get together. They learn to see similarities with each other and that leads them to start a stronger bond. Commonality leads to empathy, which leads to compassion, which leads to a transformation of the self. If it weren’t for Renamon’s empathy, Impmon would’ve been left for dead in the Digital World. Once in the Real World, he’s given a second chance, and without delay he starts amending the bonds he had broken previously. Incidentally, the “transformative power of love” is in full essence here, since once he again the friendship of Ai and Makoto, he’s able his true Ultimate/Mega form, Blast Mode, which in extended media, is stated to be a “Beelzemon freed of any wickedness in his heart”. Note that Ai’s name in Japanese is often translated as “love”, so, the effect of love indeed does transform our favorite Imp; from a rascal, to a monster, to a person searching to do the right thing. And again, recall back the religious symbolism- the fallen angel NOW regains his wings…And now he can atone for his sins. And once fully good, the Maiden accepts the aid of the Monster once again, without judging him or criticizing him.

We can even suggest that Jen’s sensei aiding him to get to Ai and Makoto fits into the “don’t judge a book by its cover” message, since Sensei was the only one who saw fit to help Impmon, since he wasn’t scared of him. He knows nothing of his past, only knows of his looks, yet “senses no wickedness in his heart”; unlike all the other passengers in the train who screamed at his sight. So, good, we basically get all the message of the story covered at this point!

So, while it’s far from a typical romance, it does share a lot of similar elements for the story to take place. (Perhaps in a future sequel, maybe…)

·      “Compassion is so often the solution”

I wanted this to be an entry in itself. Because ultimately, compassion is what saves both of them. It’s often a statement in most children’s media, which would be considered a cliché and just something not worth talking over, but for this relationship it’s vital.

Heck, it’s compassion what leads to Renamon’s first time evolving. Fighting not for the sake of fighting, but for saving Ruki (“You’re my partner”). It’s also the culmination of her character development, going from a Digimon only attacking and dedicated to fighting to giving her life for her friends…It’s that level of compassion where the gods grant her chance to evolve to Mega, the time when she shines the brightest. It’s when Ruki starts seeing her as an equal, and cares for her wellbeing, that their bond can strengthen and achieve evolution without qualms. Compassion allows her to achieve her true power and turn into a beautiful, powerful Goddess.

Similarly, Impmon is saved more than once due to the power of compassion. And the most vital time, it wasn’t even Renamon’s doing! The event that lead the course to change his life came all from Juri’s actions, who meant nothing to him at that point. As Dukemon defeated him in battle, he was ready to strike, ready to finish all the harm and misery and Beelzemon brought upon the children, but he stopped. He stopped, and only because Juri requested it! Even Beelzemon couldn’t understand it at first; his tone of voice and body language seemed to have accepted defeat and possible death at that point.

Beelzebumon: Why?  I don’t get it…I killed Leomon, after all…

Juri (in tears):…Even if we kill you, that won’t bring him back…And I never want to feel this pain ever again! So please…Just stop…

-Episode 36

And everyone stops, the battle ends. Dukemon devolves and Takato goes to comfort Juri, while Beelzebumon is lost amidst his thoughts. Everything, all he knew, all he believed in, was shattered in that battle, was shattered in that moment a little girl pleaded for his life. So what was she to him? What was he to her? He believed for a long while that humans were stupid and selfish; and in her eyes, he would be nothing more than a bloodthirsty murderer. He could’ve died, and maybe stuff would’ve ended right then and there.

But Juri shows him something different, another layer, a second chance, selflessness. His whole image of humans broke in that moment, at the same time that broke all his illusions of power. If it weren’t for that simple act of kindness, maybe he wouldn’t have reconsidered and taken responsibility for his actions. Maybe he would’ve pondered killing more and more Digimon until a Mega showed up and put him in his place.

But because of that little gesture of mercy, of kindness, was what lead him away from his “expected” destiny, that of a cruel Demon Lord; to forge his own path, the Fallen Angel who gained his wings again. He suffered, and lost, but he learned, and he got better than ever. And all because somebody helped him, in the darkest he’s ever been.

Other things

Nothing serious, it’s just that in promotional material for the series, they’re always one way or another together. Look:

·    

  Final thoughts

And all this is why I think this is the most interesting couple that has existed in the Digimon series, or has the potential to be one of the more interesting; since a lot of ideas and themes are tied with context and symbolism and imagery. It’s not just casual dialogue or “well they look cute together”, a lot of beauty of their potential is all in the imagery, the music, the hidden meanings, etc. It’s just a shame the fandom never took off because of outside circumstances, because I know they have the potential, in a parallel universe, to be some of the most characters in the fandom. I mean, they already are, but I think would people would be more on board with their relationship if they saw the parallels. I mean, after all, they’ve got soo many elements others go nuts for in other fandoms: redemption arc, symbolism, “bad boys”…

Adventure:

My favorite romantic couple would probably be Sorato. I bet you saw that one coming, huh? Their interactions throughout the season are subtle but still... tender, I think is the word. They don’t clash like they do with Tai, but you really get the feeling that they both understand one another on a rather deep level. I really do think their relationship during Season 1 is highly underrated, even among Sorato fans. Just a nice, comfy ship, but also one that’s easy to ignore if you’re not actively pushing for a different Sora couple.

For friendship, I’m trying to avoid bringing up partnerships because those are all pretty cute, but between the humans... I think I’m rather fond of T.K. and Sora’s relationship. She really does look after him quite a bit in the first season. Beyond that, ok, I’ll admit it- the 2020 anime is charming with Tai and Izzy.

And heck with it, I’ll also talk about favorite partnership because that’s not listed. I think my favorite partnership is between Sora and Biyomon. Just a cute mother/daughter relationship.

02:

Favorite ship is easily Kenyako! This is another highly underrated ship. If it’s not hated for “coming out of nowhere” (and/or breaking up teh gay ships), it just tends to be... ignored by the larger fandom. At least, back in the day it was. I feel like more and more people have come around to this ship, and for good reason- it actually DID have some decent development (for an Adventure romance), and Yolei really does click well with Ken. She’s extroverted and excitable like Davis, his best friend, but she’s also very much Ken’s intellectual equal. They’re different but not opposing towards one another.

Favorite friendship is hard, because I actually think pretty much everyone on the 02 gang has great chemistry with one another. I think my main favorite though might be Kari and Yolei. Female friendships in fiction... tend to be pretty shallow, in my opinion, but Kari and Yolei just click in a nice way. While their friendship does hinge a little bit on “we’re the only two human girls on the team so we need to be best friends”, once again it’s a friendship where two people with opposite personalities really work well together. Kari really is this saintly, patient maiden while Yolei is something of a disaster, but they both compliment each other really well and you get the feeling these two really are friends. Plus... .tri and Kizuna both COMPLETELY neglect this friendship and it’s made me mad. I miss it.

Favorite partnership is like I said before, Yolei and Hawkmon (yes I have a bias!). I realize Yolei’s strongest relationships are all with people who could be called her opposites, but what can I say? That’s just how she is. Hawkmon is just such a sweetie towards her, and I can see why.

Tamers:

For my favorite couple, it’s definitely Jurato. It’s just a simple, sickeningly sweet and pure ship between two young kids who go through... well, they go through a lot together, that’s for sure. It’s also one of the most well-developed canon romances in the entire franchise, and everytime somebody says Digimon has never had a canon ship developed properly throughout the series I just want to smack them and remind them that Jurato exists!

Oh, also, Renamon x Impmon is a very close second favorite ship. Just thought I’d mention that.

As for friendships, I find myself at a tie. I find myself really drawn to the friendship between Takato, Kazu and Kenta. Their relationship tends to get overshadowed in comparison to Takato’s relationship with Rika and Henry, for obvious reasons, but what strikes me in my rewatches is just how strong a bond Kazu and Kenta feel towards Takato. It’s easy to forget, but Kazu and Kenta have known Takato longer than Henry or Rika and were already very good friends. The other friendship I really like, though, is between Suzie and Terriermon. I really do like how Terriermon slowly forms a brotherly bond with her, despite her tortures. Really, Digimon/Human friendships that aren’t between partners are criminally underrepresented in this series.

As for partnerships, gosh, this is a hard one. There’s just... they’re all so good here. I have a hard time picking my favorite. I think I might have to give it to Leomon and Jeri, simply because their entire arc together is so darn good and hurts my heart. Not bad for one of the franchise’s oldest meme-mons.

Frontier:

Junzumi!

I will go to the WALL for this ship. It definitely frustrates me that J.P.’s crush on Zoe is so purely played for laughs- “oh lol the fat ugly kid has a crush on the hot chick that’s out of his league, let’s laugh at his failure”- especially when J.P. and Zoe have so much screen time together and their friendship really is one of the most developed in the entire show.

In fact, remember how I was complaining about Takumi? One of the main problems with that ship is that ultimately, Zoe and Takuya have very limited screentime together. I honestly can’t remember too many scenes where Zoe and Takuya are together that actively develop their relationship, at least platonically. They just... don’t have that much interaction with one another. At least direct interaction (they do have ship-tease, though). But J.P. and Zoe have a TON of interaction with one another, both platonically and ship-wise. Like, even if you don’t support these two romantically, there’s no denying they are an incredibly strong partnership. I don’t think Zoe is obligated to return J.P.’s feelings just because he’s been the most involved with her, of course, but just by their characters, and the strength of their interactions... yeah, I really like this pairing.

For friendships, I’m rather fond of Tommy and Takuya’s surrogate brotherhood. I think I have a fondness for these familial relationships.

Savers:

Oddly enough, I think my favorite Savers ship has got to be Agumon x Rhythm. Really wished they did more with her- including design her Digimon form, dangit!

For friendship, this was also a hard one, but I think I like Marcus and Thomas’s rivalry? Their whole relationship was just a classic shonen hero/rival dynamic, which I can enjoy.

For my favorite partnership, I gotta go with Agumon/Marcus. I have my... issues with Marcus and his pawnching abilities (spoiler alert: not a fan of them at ALL), but I really do like his gang-leader relationship with Agumon. It was weirdly endearing.

Xros Wars:

Favorite couple would probably be Beelzemon x Mervamon. Hate Mervamon’s design, but it does amuse me to know that no matter the universe, Beelzemon is a lady-killer.

Friendship wise, eugh, I dunno...  Mikey/Jeremy? The interpersonal dynamics in this series were SO horribly under cooked. Which is a shame, because there was real potential there.

Same with “partnerships”, that... technically didn’t exist in Xros Wars? (Also another wasted opportunity) I think my favorite would have to be between Shoutmon and Mikey. Again, because Shoutmon himself is so great. Just wish he had a better partner...

Appmon:

I have not seen enough of Appmon to fully decide, but I guess my favorite ship would be... either Haru/Ai or Eri/Astra. Both good ships.

Favorite friendship? Um... Rei/Anyone on the team, maybe?

Renamon is the partner Digimon to Ruki, the only girl of the main cast (Juri’s importance comes along much later). Reading behind the scenes, the writers were asked by the producers to design a different type of female character, since sales pointed out that the “girlier” previous female leads of Digimon didn’t sell so well (I know, it’s not good, but that’s how it went, and I cannot ignore history), so the writers attempted to change the model in a way that would seem more appealing to “stereotypical” boys watching the series. Ruki was based on Trinity from the Matrix, and given a more assertive and cold personality as well, to contrast against the motherly Sora or the perky Mimi of Adventure fame. Similarly, Renamon is also contrasted greatly against the other female-coded Digimon. Whereas most female Digimon beforehand were written to be very affectionate and feminine-coded, Renamon is much more aloof and…agender, so to say (Konaka wrote that idea in his character notes, and she notes it in dialogue as well in the series- Still, the characters use she/her pronouns in the show to refer to her, so I’ll do that here to make the writing easier). At first glance you wouldn’t tell her gender, unlike the previous Digimon, who were written with certain characteristics that would make it easier for audiences to know/assume their intended gender: the very pink Piyomon or Palmon, who carries a flower in her head (flowers often associated with femininity).

Renamon at first is presented as this great warrior, cold and intimidating, utterly devoted to fighting and nothing else. Follows Ruki’s commands without hesitation, even despite the fact that initially, both of them form their comradery based on purely selfish interests. Add to the fact that she barely talks, and she’s rather bizarre when compared to almost all other main partner Digimon we’re used to; who are much chipper, friendlier and cuter. For first-time audiences, she seems rather scary.

However she is not just a destructive killer machine; she’s shown she cares, even before developing into a softer figure. In the third episode, before attacking Guilmon, she hesitates once Takato gets near the newborn creature. If she was just wild and bloodthirsty she wouldn’t hesitate about collateral victims. Just at the end of the episode, she does the same once Terriermon interrupts the fight with Guilmon, urging for him to get out of the way.

While cold and stoic; it’s shown even at the beginning that Renamon has a soft, empathetic side, even if it doesn’t show at first. For one, she’s fiercely devoted to Ruki from the start, even when their relationship is far from ideal. Once Ruki accepts to see her as an equal, she starts blooming into more of the “big sister” role in the group: the cool, mature one to Terriermon’s jokester and Guilmon’s newborn. Even so, she still manages to often be by herself most of the time, not fully ever integrating herself properly into the group. When you finish watching the show, you get the sense that Renamon, aside from fighting, is rather an introverted figure, to the point that even making friendships seems a little hard for her. The narrative implies she’s programmed to have a “servant”-like role originally with Ruki, and even though they mended their bond, there are still parts where it feels like she doesn’t feel an equal to her partner- see in the final episodes, how she eats by herself while Guilmon and Terriermon happily bond over food with the Tamers’ parents.

Incidentally, a lot of her more empathetic moments are displayed when she shows concerns over Impmon’s wellbeing, and manages to listen to his advice, more often than not. Aside from Ruki, he’s the one character she shows the most concern over the course of the series. She gets along fine with Guilmon and Terriermon, eventually, but there isn’t this level of awkward intrigue and fascination like the script implies with Impmon.

Amidst the formidable warrior lies a caring soul, hence why she evolves into Sakuyamon, a Digimon that focuses more on Defense than Attack. Some people think it’s a character regression for Ruki; but seeing how Renamon was also developed in this arc, I think her evolution further showcases her character as well. The elegance and grace and caring nature she always withheld has finally evolved into a comfortable goddess role, where she can defeat the monsters and defend her beloveds as much as her heart desires. It’s a very nice contrast, when she initially started the show in a “subservient” role, to end up basically embodying a Queen/Goddess (Perhaps a subtle nod that her Tamer is the “Digimon Queen”…Heh). Hard and soft power in the same hand; for a queen must know when to fight, and when to care for her people. She cares, she always cared, even if she might struggle to show it at first. That does not mean she must lose her agency, or anything of the like. She still participates in the many battles and defeats the villains alongside her friends.

Now, on to Impmon.

Impmon, Impmon, Impmon. The rogue Digimon. The wild card. The prankster turned hero turned reborn hero. Definitely the break-out star of the series, and the riskiest character as well in my opinion. A Digimon without a tamer, with his own character development? A Digimon that turns basically into one of the main villains at one point in the series? A lot of the series’ success depended on if Impmon ended up being an engaging character for audiences, because otherwise I feel he would’ve come off as too bratty or monstrous for us to root for. Remember, he has his own arc, he doesn’t depend on Ai and Makoto for his character to work. He’s not an “accessory” Digimon, so to say. Audiences wouldn’t have cared too much for him if there wasn’t a human partner for him to bounce off from. For the writing to depend entirely on his shoulders, without relying too much on his partners (they appear pretty much only 3-4 times in the whole series), the writers had to be confident in the character they were writing, knew he had to be engaging on his own. And it worked! How?

Well Impmon goes through an archetypical redemption arc, where he’s conscious of the decisions he makes and tries to make amends for it. But he’s not cruel, or viscous; unlike a lot of typical villains. The best way to explain Impmon’s character arc is seeing it through the eyes of a child learning what true power and responsibility is like, and turning into a man due to it. He’s more selfish and irresponsible than a true villain, which is what makes him stand out against another villain in a similar situation to him. It’s interesting to point out in Tamers that outside of the D-Reaper, none of the villains are evil for evil’s sake; they’re acting for their own preservation and self-benefit. Selfish, yes, but it’s understandable, and the Tamers get to understand Yamaki’s and the Deva’s position once they start openly talking with them.

In episode 8, we have a microcosm of one of Impmon’s main flaw: he can bite more than he can chew. He doesn’t understand that power needs responsibility to work well; otherwise it’s a hose without control. He’s proud and doesn’t admit neither his flaws, nor his true strengths. He picks and teases Devidramon until the Digimon is freed upon the city and unleashes chaos. It’s like a micro of what his actions as Beelzebumon basically amount to in episode 34 onwards. Same thing in episode 19, as well, where not wanting to accept an unfavorable aspect of himself (his weakness) almost has him die by Indiramon’s hand. Only that when he teased Devidramon he ran away, and Indiramon as well. Part of his development is well, accepting his strengths and limits, and working from that point on. Instead of running away or hiding behind pride, he finally accepts how things are, how he is, and works from the ground up. That’s part of his development, accepting what true power is, like an adult would, and using it responsibly.

Of course, tho, one thing to note is that he envies power, he craves power, he admires power. That was his goal at the start, his initial “wants”. Hence why he awed at Devidramon plummeting Guilmon in episode 8, and initially why he was drawn to Renamon first, I believe - she was at the start of the show the most powerful of the main Digimon; no wonder he felt an initial admiration towards her. But it’s a very shallow reading of power- the way a child would admire power, basically. Less about using it to help others and more for the self-benefit. Part of his arc is trying to understand what the true power is and where it lies on (he shares this arc with Renamon, basically; whereas she amended her relationship with Ruki, he got worse to the point that he almost lost himself to the Devil-figure of the show).

So, we know get a good idea of our two characters. Let’s see what their hidden meaning is.

·      Preface: Love in the Digimon franchise

This entry will be short, but I’ll try to explain about how love and romance are often portrayed in the Digimon franchise for us to get a better understanding of how the possible development between Renamon and Impmon could work. I know in the Disclaimer I said I wouldn’t touch upon this, but it’s important to keep in mind to understand the analysis.

(I’m also basing this on the amazing Sorato analysis @jippy-kandi​ does. Seriously, go check them out, their stuff is great)

Usually, in children’s anime, unless the genre is a romance or the show is explicit in its context, the couples usually portrayed in it will have hints, symbolism and elements of foreshadowing, rather than the typical Westernized form of “open interactions and development”. Of course, some anime couples do, as well, but often times, if the romance isn’t a strong focus of the series, it’ll just have little hints and that would be enough to leave viewers pondering.

Case in point? The “main” Digimon couples, in Adventure and 02, follow this structure. Sure, we have many scenes of the couples interacting, but most of their development comes from imagery, hints, symbolism, pictures where they’re standing, etc.

Look at Yamato and Sora, for example. True, they do not share many scenes together, but you look at imagery surrounding them, and you see a connected pattern. Takeru considers Sora “family”; after Jyou, they’re the most caring towards the group, taking on a parental role towards the others; both tend to care for the others to the extent that they end up ignoring their personal needs; and in real life, often the feelings of Love and Friendship are interconnected.

Then, there’s Takeru and Hikari, who are not canon but they are hotly debated about to this day, and even if so, I do find their parallels noteworthy. They are connected not only due to shared interactions, but because of the imagery that surrounds them; their Digimon are the only Holy Beasts of the groups, Hope and Light are often associated in religious texts, Pegasus and Sphinxes are mythological creatures that originated from the same culture (Greek; though Sphinxes also have Egyptian roots), In their 02 outfits they both share yellow in their designs…

We see this as well with Takato and Juri, who are explicitly stated to have a crush on one another. Juri is the first of Takato’s friends who accepts Guilmon as he is and adores him (ea, accepting Takato’s true self), they share a Psychic Link, a Mental Connection, which in the Tamers universe, it’s only seen to exist between a Digimon and their Tamers (and later on, with another example); and later on as the story develops Takato plays the role of Gallant Knight to Juri’s Princess in the Tower-inspired arc.

There’s even a lot of suggestive imagery with other couples who are not as canon. Take Koushiro and Mimi, for instance. Before Digimon Adventure Tri, not many thought to link them together (yet they were very popular in Japanese fanzones), but the imagery of bugs and flowers is strong with them. Even Tailmon, who had little time with Wizarmon, manages to have a symbolic image associated with him; as she mourns the anniversary of his death, in 02, we see her carrying a bouquet of red roses while she’s tearfully remembering him. Red roses are often associated with love, so add to that plus her grieving = she mourns the loss of her best friend / possible first love. (This is rather incidental, but the imagery is quite strong. Plus the association Tailmon and Wizarmon have with wizards and their cat familiars was certainly done on purpose, I think…)

And well, then we see little things like characters holding on to each other and posters and the like. It’s small, but it says a lot.

So, how does this work with Renamon and Impmon? Easy. If the other characters had limited scenes but a lot of imagery, symbolism and foreshadowing, and that eventually lead to them turning into a couple/having romantic imagery, it could be easily applied to Renamon and Impmon’s relationship as well, since they also carry a lot of interactions with a lot of imagery on the side.

·      Interactions

Here is where we point out both the scenes they share together and what they could mean on a larger scale.

I think it’s fascinating to point out that early on, the Renamon focused episodes also tended to feature Impmon prominently as well. It’s something that’s more prominent in the first twelve episodes, but it’s still noticeable that in each Renamon-focused episode of the first arc, Impmon also had a prominent scene in it. Of course, he did appear in other episodes with the other Digimon, but it is interesting how he serves as a sort of “guide” for Renamon early on, where she’s doubting of her strength and her relationship with Ruki.

Their first scene where they meet is in Impmon’s introductory episode, episode 6, which is also the first Renamon-focused episode. What is interesting to note is that while Impmon appears early on in the episode, to the first Digimon he introduces himself to properly is to Renamon, precisely. And instead of being teasing or cruel towards her, like he’d be with Terriermon or Guilmon; at first he seems to try to attempt to start a conversation with her. It’s almost unlike him…At first. But you start to see what he’s trying to do here- he’s attempting to make her understand his world-view; the narrative later on suggests that just recently he ran away from Ai and Makoto, so he’s probably experiencing first time relief in a long while, and he doesn’t want to get rid of this sensation. So he sees her, doubting, and would try to reason with her about why he made the best choice. In a way, it’s misguided compassion, but it’s not outright malice at first. He sees her in in similar doubts and pain, and was probably counseling based on what he thought was the best choice.

At the end of the episode it’s also implied he was witness to her evolution into Kyuubimon, which, while he sees with initial sneer, it can be read as disappointment that she followed Ruki instead of his advice. Maybe also a little hidden envy, since she achieved evolution before he did? Who knows.

Next time, in episode 10, they meet in a Shinto temple (foreshadowing to Sakuyamon, I might add), and he seems excited to meet her at first. But then it turns into nothing once Impmon starts urging Renamon to fight with Terriermon. It leads to nothing, of course, except for Impmon to think to get a reaction out of Terriermon, but it does suggest that he looks forward to seeing her again.

Again, their next scene together is in a Renamon focus episode, ep. 12, again; where we’re also subject to Impmon’s past for the first time. She’s absolutely curious about his point of view regarding evolution and strength, since, again, she’s at odds with Ruki. And while we’re witness to his past, she isn’t, since it’s shown in a flashback, but I think she’s perceptive enough to have linked his shuddering with the crying children in the window below. Still, she follows him, not to judge or criticize, but to further gets answers; Impmon seems the most knowledgeable about the subject matter, so maybe he can give her answers.

A subtle one occurs in the episode where the Snake deva attacks in the subway (ep. 15). Beforehand, Renamon finds Impmon staring with jealousy at Guilmon playing with the kids in the park, and although he shows disdain, Renamon carefully points out that he seems too “heavily involved” to just despise them. He got mad, of course, but that’s typical of him, he tries too hard to deny and his true feelings, of how jealous and envious he is of the other Digimon just getting along with the kids so well…But at this moment he’s too proud to ever admit he probably committed a mistake by running, or even admit help from the other Digimon.

And of course, I must remember that this episode, a hint was shown coming from him (often it’s Renamon who displays a lot of their most affectionate actions); when Kyuubimon and Galgomon are beaten hard by the Deva in the subway, Impmon notices and immediately goes to alert Takato and Guilmon, who were completely unaware by having fun in the park. He might try to act like he doesn’t care or is too cool, but again, if he was truly wicked or cruel he wouldn’t have gone out of his way to alert the others to come save the day, I think. Actions speak louder than words.

Of course a big source of their interactions comes in ep. 19, where it’s the first time Impmon gets a fully character-focused episode. In it we see him endangering himself in front of Indramon and later on with the police, and it’s up to Renamon to save him (this is a recurring pattern; she’s always saving him when he does something reckless or stupid); in it Renamon gets the closest of all the characters to understand his psyche properly, to get there’s more to him than just the pathetic Imp harassing the playground. That yes, all the prankster bully persona is an act, and he’s very vulnerable and pitiful without a partner and without the means to evolve. Yet even as she knows it’s desperate to fight Indramon, he pleads her to let him fight; without any scorn or mockery in his voice. Renamon, unused to that side, respected his wishes that time, even if she knew it was suicidal. Yet it still that at this episode, Renamon has gotten to understand Impmon’s character much much more than the rest of the cast, and like I stated before; she’s an observant person; I reckon she probably already how initially she felt hunting for data with Ruki and can see parallels with Impmon- he’s obsessed with power but due to his circumstances he’s pathetically weak. I think she sees a side of herself in him, hence why she wants to help him so much.

Later on, in episode 20, amidst the chaos of the Deva, the kids also try to look around for Impmon. Even Renamon searches for him on her own in the abandoned place she took him in ep. 19; it’s a small scene but it says leagues about them, that she can find him and connect with him without getting the rest of the kids into their dilemma. Shows she’s mature enough to understand he would prefer having his own space, too.

After their incursion in the Digital World they don’t have many prominent scenes together for a long while…Until they meet again in ep. 30. This is important, since while they do not interact for a while, their characters follow similar scenes and patterns later on (and I’ll discuss this later on).

And I do love how in ep. 30, their scenes are followed by one another. Just after a Renamon scene ends, Beelzebumon’s first true scene is immediately showcased. And fascinatingly, in the same episode where it’s established Cyberdramon has need for fighting and gaining power to control, it’s also the episode where we have a first display of Beelzebumon’s power, completely unleashed and unrestrained. Yes, he’s happier than he’s ever been, but we know that power comes with red strings.

Aaand and and…Kyuubimon is the one that recognizes Beelzebumon, not the others. She doesn’t even need to be lead on by a witty remark, she senses his presence enough (either that, or the bandana was a clue), but again, this is recalled later on, where two times later, she can hear him or notice him when nobody else can.

Later on, here comes the big one; ep. 34. Impmon has absolutely fully engulfed himself into his power and completely believed the Devas’ crap about killing the children, so he goes as planned. It’s fascinating because he’s not even acting out like how when he previously killed other Digimon, in a careless manner, again, similar to a child playing with a dangerous objetc. He’s clearly seething and throwing his bile at the Tamers here, all the hurt, all the resentment, the feeling of “betrayal” since he never properly bonded with them (they tried to be friendly but heee…uuh…he’s also not good at making friends) and how he felt humiliated after Indramon beat him (but again, he forgets that the others were ready to save him, too). And of course, it’s interesting to point out how he’s insisting on killing Kyuubimon first, once the whole gang is reunited. He beats the crap out of Rapidmon and Growlmon when they jump at him, but he even points out he’ll “guard them for later”. No, it’s Kyuubimon whom he’s interested in killing first, even though she’s injured and unwilling at the moment to fight back. And frankly, even Kyuubimon is willing to talk first, even when Rapidmon and Growlmon have already given up. She pleads for him, in all dubs, to open his eyes, even while she’s bleeding on the floor. Why is this? Maybe he felt if he killed her first it’d be easier, since he would never kill her if she was kept for last, or maybe just his conscience just asking him to retain a little bit- remember, he’s at his Ultimate/Mega level, and a very powerful form at that; and he could easily kill all of them without pause. However, the fact that Growlmon and Kyuubimon keep him at bay a little while makes me think that he’s still subconsciously holding back (babe, no, you’ve started caring, no, babe, leave your friends alone, hahahah…)

It’s only in the next episode, ep. 35, after he’s killed Leomon that Kyuubimon accepts, resigned, admitting that he’s turned into a demon. It kinda really shows that she still held back, still believed in his inherent, internal goodness and potential (and as I mentioned in ep. 15, he had it there), but after how brutal he murdered Leomon and beat the others, she has come to accept that her odd friend has basically turned into the monster they must defeat. (The show LOOOVes the whole “give in to the monster” narrative so I’ll talk about it later)

And episode 40! Once again, it’s Renamon who notes Beelzebumon’s in distress, she hears his cry from afar, and she’s the one willing to give him a chance once again, even after all the horrible things he’s done, when the rest of the gang has given up on him. And they’re running out of time, they know it, if they miss the Arc they can’t go back home, and anyone less forgiving would be in favor of leaving him behind (Hirokazu even points out to Ruki how it’s crazy to bring him “after all the evil he’s done”)…But she can’t. Again, her gentle nature resurfaces. And considering this is the episode after Renamon evolved into Sakuyamon, I think the Mega is starting to influence her. (“A good Queen puts her people first”). 

Also…Ruki and Renamon find Impmon, abandoned and worn in the desert…it’s the first time he calls her by her name instead of a demeaning nickname or “you”…And this is IN ALL THE DUBS. Japanese, German, Engl, Both Spanish, etc etc etc. And Renamon always always always, no matter the dub, sounds very concerned when she reaches for him and asks him if he can stand. There’s only 3 times she ever sounds super worried throughout the whole series, and two times concerned Impmon/Beelzebumon’s being. She was worried, y’all.

I just noticed how the pattern kinda breaks mid show but then forms a new pattern; while in the first Renamon focused episodes impmon played a prominent part, once we get to Taomon’s and Sakuyamon’s evolutions he doesn’t feature in at all…YEEEET the episodes afterwards do feature him prominently, and Renamon worried for his well-being. Probably just a coincidence, but again, to me it shows how the two of them really are interconnected and really, their influence has rubbed on each other.

Ep. 41, nothing really big happens, but Renamon carries him in the Ark on the way back home while he’s sleeping. Again, nothing really big, but it’s a cute moment (even Jen smiles at it ;)) -It’s even stated by dialogue (from Jen, no less) that it was Renamon’s wish through and through to see him safe, while the other kids are going on about Ruki’s crazy fantasies instead- Jen was always the “big brother” of the group, and he has bonded with Rena earlier, so I like to imagine he can sorta infer there’s something bigger there, without having Rena or Ruki openly telling him it.  And uff, she’s the one that sees him vanish amidst the crowd once they return to the real world…! Ruki manages to raise her eyes to see him but Renamon, Renamon never left her sight from Impmon…!

Ep. 43 is a big one for Impmon, for he reconciles with his Tamers and starts aiding the older Kids with defeating the D-Reaper. Note how initially, the only one who doesn’t reject him is Taomon; she’s surprised at his sight, while Rapidmon and Wargrowlmon are just skeptical. And once his attacks makes an effect on the Reaper, SHE is the one who supports his attack, making the others follow suit. (Incidentally, it’s also the episode where he admits he feels Blast Mode is his true form after all…JP language only, but it seems to suggest that really, being Beelze feels more true to Impmon than being stuck in his Child form).

In ep. 48, it’s Renamon who recognizes his figure, tied inside the Reaper. It’s also interesting cause it’s the climax of Impmon’s whole character development, where he has accepted the crimes he has committed, and instead of asking forgiveness, he will just right the wrongs, even if it costs him his life.

And episode 49! Goodness it has so many moments. After Beelzemon falls, Sakuyamon is the first to rush to his rescue (see? She’s always saving him); and gosh darn she sounds desperate, this is nuts to hear because Renamon/her evos, no matter the dub, always keeps her cool, so to again; hear her voice just scream and tremble urging him to fly and get up… And then once Grani saves Impmon, he lends Impmon for Sakuyamon to carry. Rather it’s the most practical choice, since she’s the only one who can carry him, since SaintGalgomon is too big and Dukemon is kept busy with his shield and lance, but still…She sounds so relieved when she urges to rest in her arms, as they keep battling the Reaper…

And of course, like almost every other plot point, their relationship is also resolved in ep. 51. When the whole team is relaxing at the park, relieved after they defeated the D-Reaper, Impmon appears, and once again, who notices him first? That’s right, our favorite fox. And again, her usual monotone breaks just to show relief to see him safe and sound. Even he, before he addresses Juri, seems to reassure her over the rest. I like how it’s a little moment, but I love that in the last episode, the writers managed to give a wink to their little relationship that carried on throughout the whole show. The writers knew they had to tell their story (his story), and they knew how important it was to see it to a satisfying conclusion.

·      Similarities / opposites

Ok, so we’ve gone over why their scenes together matter. Big deal, what else is there?

Well, it’s not only the fact that they share many scenes together, is the fact that their characters are written to be eerily similar in many aspects.

They both initially look up to power, believe in the ideal that Digimon are only made for fighting. Later on we discover that is pretty much the law in the Digital World, but for us, the audience, they’re the two that bring up this idea the most when we first start seeing properly the series.

She’s stated at first to be the strongest Digimon in the main cast, while he’s the weakest. That’s a parallel, keep that up in mind.

They’re also the two Digimon to have a proper arc and character development, something that the others really don’t. And incidentally, they carry a similar arc- both initially are mistreated by their Tamers which makes their relationship and views of humanspoor; but while Renamon manages to get better with Ruki, and therefore stronger; Impmon just denies himself and goes on a self-destructive path.

Also, his proper introduction in the series is in the same first episode where Renamon gets focus. I know I said it before, but it bears repeating. And he presents himself to her first of the whole group! It’s also implied he witnessed the whole battle and Renamon’s first evolution into Kyuubimon, too… I tell you, it’s there. These stories aren’t written by bots, it’s a bunch of people that decide what element is added here and there to make certain things work.

When the series called Impmon a child…They were not far-off, for, as I wrote before, he’s written to act similar to a teenage kid- bratty, irresponsible, selfish…But not cruel, not truly, just undisciplined. Funny enough, it contrasts nicely with Renamon, for as “mature” as she seems, she lacks a lot of knowledge in things, but due to her nature, she’s not to go around asking as much. (See, in comparison, Guilmon and Terriermon, who are much more confident in their placement in the world and their relationship with their Tamers; and Guilmon is written to be seen as a baby /little dog for most of the series). If she was as “grown-up” as we imagined, she wouldn’t have initial hang-ups and doubts about her placement as Ruki’s partner.

The episode with Vajramon is also fascinating to consider because, much Like Impmon, he first appears to Renamon with a similar vocabulary: to abandon the humans to create their own destiny. Vajramon’s crush on Renamon is much more openly displayed, and yet he seems to try to impress her with the same talking points as Impmon did earlier. Remember that Impmon only tried to suggest Renamon to join his side, yet with Terriermon and Guilmon he was just tricky and antagonistic. Also remember the Devas at this point are just cruel and menacing to the Digimon, but Vajramon…Well, he takes a liking to Renamon, and it’s pretty obvious (calling her “beautiful” many times and such).- We’ll get to Vajramon’s crush later, but I wanna pinpoint this as a parallel to Impmon’s development with Rena.

Vajramon: We weren’t meant to serve humans. Come with us, to serve our god, and you’ll discover your true purpose! (paraphrasing but that’s what his dialogue basically amounts to)

So, if the villain who openly crushes on Renamon has the same talking points as Impmon, then...

Similarly, episode 24 is the one where both allude to their deaths. It’s the episode where the children decide to go to the Digital World to find Culumon, and each of them prepare in their own way to say their goodbyes. Ruki is about to tell her grandmother as she discovers It by her own by finding Renamon, and isn’t surprised at all at the giant furry fox. She even confides in Ruki that she thought Renamon was a spirit sent to protect her granddaughter.

(Sidenote, but that makes Renamon’s design make so much sense, since I have this theory that each Digimon/their evo were chosen to reflect the development of their Trainer; hear me out. Takato was originally written to be a self-insert for kids in the audience, so he gets the Digimon that evolves into stereotypically things that little boys like: dinosaurs, robots and superheroic figures (Dukemon has a red cape probably as an allusion to Superman). Jen is the most tech-savy of the three and his father aided in the creation of the Digimon in this verse, so it makes sense for Terriermon to mechanize more and more with each evolution. Finally, Ruki is Japanese ethnically, of course, yet her behavior and style of dress seems more…uhm, Western, so to say; until you see what type of house she lives – a fancy old Japanese style mansion; in comparison to Takato and Jen who live in humbler flats. Considering that Ruki’s arc was meant to discourage her loneliness and bring her closer to friends and family, it makes sense that Renamon -her humanity, her heart, her character development- is the Digimon with most Japanese callbacks in her design: she’s linking Ruki back to her family.  Something similar happens in Adventure; Piyomon is pink to call back to Sora’s love, motherly nature, and connection to her mother).

So, we were where Ruki is planning to say goodbye to her family, like the other kids, since they’re determined to go to the Digital World to rescue Culumon. Grandma seems untroubled, and finds Renamon charming as well (even says she’s “beautiful”); but just asks our foxy to protect her grandchild.

Renamon declares that she’ll protect Ruki no matter what, even if it comes to her death. Ruki is seen openly touched at hearing that.

Meanwhile, Impmon has pretty much given up at this point. Defeated and humiliated by Indramon, he’s hidden in the sewers and expects nothing to come at this point. He feels hurt, betrayed, lost, without anyone at his side (but that’s mostly due to his actions; since he left his kids on his own accord, and the Tamers were ready to welcome him with open arms, as long as he behaved, yet he just didn’t know how to make a stable friendship with them) The Digital World calls to him, but he reacts less like an adventure, and more like a release. He sees no point in going forward, in going back…He’s given up on everything. And once Catsuramon calls to him, in the little portal to the Digital World, he goes there less because of adventure, and more because well…What else is there?

So while the other Digimon look forward to the Digital World as an adventure, Renamon and Impmon are the only ones that allude to it in a deadly manner…

And there’s also the matter of which when they both evolve to Mega…Which I’ll further address in other points in the meta, but I’ll comment that they’re dark parallels / opposites between them. While he evolves to Mega for selfish gains, for purely his self-interests, even if means he’ll have to kill innocent children for it; Renamon obtains her Mega after sacrificing herself to the D-Reaper, saving Culumon and giving time for the other kids to flee. Selfish desire vs selfless action. It’s at the apex of their character: his darkest hour vs her brightest time. While he goes to the point of no return, this is the climax of her character development.

The two of them tend to be loners by nature, and while they both do crave friends, they’re kinda awkward about gaining friends. Impmon initially doesn’t know how to make friendships outside of pranking and teasing; and the last episodes, while the whole team is together, Renamon maintains her distance from the others more often than not. Even if she’s at her most compassionate self, she still feels a little off, never fully a part of them. No wonder they connected, tbh, if even at a subconscious level.

Before I forget, it’s good I talk about the Psychic Link, because otherwise I would’ve forgotten about it. In the Digimon canon, it’s often established that Digimon have really strong bonds with their humans, so it’s natural for them in a way to share their minds and thoughts together. Ruki and Renamon at times early on had psychic conversations together. So, nothing wrong with that, of course, makes sense for the canon of the series and strengthens the bond between human and tamer.

So, it’s interesting to consider that Renamon and Impmon also have a slight connection; so to say. Renamon recognizes him before anyone else does, Renamon hears Beelzebumon’s cries of despair from afar; and she’s always aware of wherever  he is or whether he’s in trouble.

You could say it’s a simple connection between the Digimon, since in Tamers it’s established the Digimon can sense each other by instinct, since the Tamer Mons can notice whenever a rogue Digimon is nearby by scent or instinct…Yet neither Guilmon nor Terriermon show this attitude when it comes to Impmon.

And of course, note, nobody else in the series has this connection, aside from the tamers and their respective mons...It would be an anomaly, maybe just a Digimon thing…BUT…A couple also does:

Takato and Juri, who are the main “couple” in the series. From the first episodes it’s stated Takato has a crush on Juri, which seems to be reciprocated from her side. And in the final episodes, as the whole team attempts to save Juri from the Reaper’s center; Juri is able to hear Takato’s voice, even when the others technically couldn’t since he’s fused into Dukemon (clarification for the Eng Dub only viewers: in the original JP and other dubs, the Mega Digimon have their own voices instead of the “Two-voice” thing the Eng. Dub attempted. So we hear Dukemon/Guilmon, SaintGalgomon/Terriermon, Renamon/Sakuyamon speaking when they’re talking in public (ea their usual voices, except Dukemon who got a different voice actor, since Guilmon’s childish voice wouldn’t fit the heroic knight character Dukemon represents). We only hear Takato, Jen and Ruki when we’re privy to their insides (inside the Digimonn basically)- so ea, Hirokazu or Kenta can’t hear Takato if they’re talking to Dukemon directly.

Yet Juri can listen to him, even if the others can’t, even if they’re far away. So, to reiterate- the humans and their Digimons’ bond is so strong that they can feel each other’s thoughts and pain. This is what allows them to fuse in the first place, and it’s something special that no other characters have. Except for the main romantic couple of the series, Takato and Juri…And Renamon and Impmon, naturally. Which...Means a lot more than one thinks.