I do not own Digimon or any of its characters.

Chapter 39: Heading for a New Frontier

It was a quiet calm that finally settled over everything. The six teenagers who stood at the center of it all didn't know what to think. It had been so long. The breaths of relief felt fresh and reminiscent at the same. It was over. For real this time.

Kouji stared down at the blade of light in his hand. Slowly it started to glow brightly and then in an instant it disappeared into thousands of tiny bits. He clenched his fist at the emptiness left behind and sighed.

"Wow" Kouji turned his head. He saw Tommy staring down at his hand in awe, "that was amazing. Was that the spirits?"

"Maybe more than that," Kouji answered him, "It felt like we were given the full power of the Ancients."

"Explains why I'm still tingly all over," J.P amusingly grumbled. His body shivered from the last bit of static, "I felt like static carpet back there, not that I'm complaining."

"Course not," Kouji chuckled. A grunt behind him caught his attention. He turned around and saw Zoe carefully landing back on the ground. Though not so gracefully, as she stumbled a bit on her feet, but she still laughed. Kouji ran up beside her, holding her up as she stumbled around.

"Watch it," he said.

"It's alright," She let out another breathy laugh. Staring up at the sky, she smiled fondly, "I truly felt like the wind, flying like that. It's once in a lifetime."

Kouji smiled fondly and chortled a bit, "…still could've landed a bit better."

Zoe lightly smacked his arm, "Don't even try to ruin anything." She scolded him. Kouji huffed. His grip on her hips tightened. For once, nothing else weighed on his mind. No monsters, not some psychopath, there were no more distractions. She must have been thinking the same since she was smiling fondly up at him.

"Celebrate in private, you two," and back to reality, as Kouichi's curt remark butted in between them. Kouji huffed at his brother, letting go of Zoe, whose cheeks were flushed despite her semi annoyed glare at her friend.

"Always at the worst moment," Kouji grumbled.

"Hey, I don't need to see that," Kouichi chuckled. He was rubbing his temple, eyes squinted.

"Alright?" Kouji asked. Kouichi took a moment but then sighed and smiled.

"…yeah, it'll be okay," he softly spoke. Kouji couldn't not worry, but maybe this time he would trust him on this. His gaze then went past his shoulders. Kouichi noticed and turned. He sighed when he saw Takuya still kneeling on the ground, staring at the sky. A ring of scorched earth and small pillars of smoke. Zoe quietly stepped over to him first.

"Takuya?" She called to him. She watched his shoulder ride and fall with a heavy sigh.

"Am I supposed to feel bad for that guy?" Takuya huffed.

"Well you can," Kouji said walking up to him.

Takuya shook his head, "It was just strange. For a moment there…I thought I saw some actual piece of what he was…and then just like that it was gone."

"You probably saw the last remnant of his light," Kouichi said, approaching the group.

"It didn't last very long," Kouji stated.

Kouichi shrugged and sighed, "In the end, he had buried himself so far in the darkness, that any amount of light would've saved. Him. He was too weak."

Takuya went quiet and gave a small nod. Kouji offered a hand out to him. Takuya took it and his friend helped him back to his feet.

"It's finally over," Takuya stretched and looked at the sky, "how do we fix the sky though?" He chuckled.

"If there's no one else tampering with, it'll just fix itself, right?" Zoe shrugged.

"All the data Solomon stole went back to the digital world, so that should help things," Kouichi added.

"Makes sense," Kouji said, "So everything should return to normal."

"Normal, heh, that'd be a change," Takuya chuckled.

"Takuya," Tommy's small voice came up behind him. Takuya turned and saw the younger teen standing, a sad look in his eyes and His busted D-Tector resting in his hand, "Here. Sorry about your D-Tector." The young teen said as he held it out to the older teen. Takuya gave him a small smile and took his broken device.

"I don't think it can be repaired. Sorry, buddy," J.P said he joined the group. Takuya brushed his thumb along the shattered, black screen. He let out a halfhearted sigh with a shake of his head.

"It's fine. It's not that important anymore," Takuya said, his smile growing a bit brighter, "besides, it's not like we needed them in the end."

"Yeah, my fists were supercharged even without my digivice," J.P laughed.

"So, did we ever need the digivices before. We were able to do all that without them. It felt I still fused with Kumemon without even touching it," Tommy said, regaining his youthful smile.

"It's not like we never needed them," Takuya shook his head, "I think that we just never that never about some device. The ancient warriors never needed them. If they're a part of us, then why should we?"

"Connected by our hearts, not through the device," Kouichi hummed.

"It all sounds a little cheesy," J.P chuckled.

"But it's true, and I kinda like it," Zoe smiled as she clutched at her chest, "It makes me feel closer to the spirits than ever before." Takuya smiled but it then turned into a look of awe as a ball of light began to glow from his device's scanner. The same thing happened with Zoe's, J. P's, and Tommy's devices. The four orbs of light floated away from the D-Tectors and lined up in a row in front of the teens. They then began to grow and form into the ghostly figure of the four other warriors; Mercurymon, Ranamon, Arbormon, and Grumblemon. They were smiling proudly.

"It's nice to see you guys friendly again," Kouji said. The spirits didn't, say much. Mercurymon gave a small bow to them as if saying thanks.

"Thank you," Takuya said, "For all the help…again." The four Digimon smiled brighter. Then they looked to the sky. They're images disappeared back into glowing orbs and shot up towards the sky. The teens watched as they went higher until they were out of sight against the broken. Then suddenly, as soon as they vanished, the sky flickered with a beautiful aurora of colors. It covered the shattered pieces, fixing them.

"Wow, what's happening?" Zoe gazed at the sight in awe.

"With the threat to the digital world gone, it can start repair itself," Kouichi surmised, "the spirits are supposed to help balance back to the worlds."

"The spirits, huh. What about us?" Kouji asked. Takuya turned to his friend, trying to find an answer. A sudden growing light coming from behind distracted them all. They all turned and had to shield their eyes from the bright shine of headlights that looked down at them. As they dimmed, a silhouette of a man slowly approached the overlook. He was dressed in an officer's uniform. Kouji recognized him. Oda was his name if he remembered correctly. He had held his own for a small time against Duskmon

Indeed, it was Officer Oda. Silently he surveyed the six teens with a skeptical purse of his lips. The teenagers couldn't help but feel slightly nervous under his scrutinizing gaze.

"Please tell me this isn't the part where we get arrested," J.P grumbled.

"Shush," Zoe quieted him. Then a second pair of headlights came forward, stopping just behind Oda. A second officer stepped up to the edge and this one Takuya immediately recognized.

"Mr. Takeuchi?" Takuya murmured under a breath. The older man, unlike his colleague, looked at the kids with a more worried and tired gaze. Takuya watched Oda whisper something in his ear, he couldn't tell what he said though, but it made Takeuchi shoot him an annoyed glance. Takeuchi then started to slowly descend into the crater.

"Mr. Takeuchi!" Takuya rushed forward after him. The older man slid carefully down into the pit, though stumbling every so often, clutching his aching ribs. He reached the bottom will a clumsy tumble, luckily Takuya was there to catch him.

"Easy!" Takuya helped him stay on his feet. Takeuchi panted a bit, winded, but nodded back at the concerned young man.

"I'll be alright, Takuya," he reassured him.

"Sir…" Takuya tried to help him still, but Takeuchi waved him off, telling him he was okay. Takuya let him go but stayed closed. The man was still panting slightly, though in more of a slow calm stated than a tired one. When he looked at him, Takuya gulped. Was he angry? Disappointed? Was he thinking twice about letting his daughter be with some monster fighting teenager? All god possibilities, Takuya thought. Takeuchi remained silent with that tired gaze. After a few more moments, he finally spoke.

"Well?" He huffed out. Takuya blinked dumbly at him, all the sudden at a loss for words. Takeuchi sighed at his silence. He looked him in the eye and asked again, "Well…is it over?"

Takuya finally released his breath. At least he wasn't going to get arrested tonight. With a faint smirk and a nod, he answered, "Yeah, it's over."

Takeuchi also released a breath. He rubbed his tired eyes. A mess of short breaths and cut up mumbles came out of his mouth as he tried to find something to say. It was all still too unreal. Monsters, maniacs, children stuck in the middle of it all, how was he supposed to explain all of this?

"How did this all happen?" He groaned aloud.

"Well there is an explanation," Takuya shrugged with a lighthearted smile.

"Is there now?" Takeuchi sighed.

"I think that would take too long to explain," Zoe quickly jumped. She eyed Takuya. Both them and the others knew better than to speak about the digital to everyone. Maybe after everything that's happened, going back to trying to keep it a secret was best. Chief Takeuchi eyed them all suspiciously.

"Care to try?" He asked. He looked back at Takuya. The teen bit his bottom, turning away and rubbing his neck uncomfortably. The boy was being held back by something, that much he could tell. It wasn't out of malicious intent at least, more so begrudgingly. Maybe there is some kind of responsibility on these kids that he couldn't fathom. Such a burden he could imagine.

"Maybe I don't want to know?" He sighed.

Takuya looked apologetic, "If we could, we would…"

"Forget it," Takeuchi stopped him, "It's been a long night. I'd rather not think about any more monsters roaming the streets. Nor about a group of kids on the fronts line facing them."

"Hey, we did just fine!" J.P exclaimed.

"We're fine sir. You don't have to worry about us," Tommy said.

"Hmmm," Takeuchi hummed, "I'm sure there'd be a few people worrying about you right now." Tommy looked down at his words. They were probably still waiting for them to come home. Tommy could only imagine his mother has been crying a Great Lake's worth of tears over him by now.

"Excuse me, sir," Kouichi then stepped forward to speak with the chief, "Is there any way to make sure we or our families will be in the spotlight after this?" He asked.

The chief cocked a brow at the young man, "You kids are heroes," he said, glancing over the six. None of them seem too excited over the fact, "Everybody in the city owes thanks to you. They would surely put a parade in your honor after what you've done."

"We're not in it for the glory," Zoe said.

"I think all of us would like to return to normalcy. None of us need such much attention," Kouji then added.

"A humble group of teenagers. That's certainly a surprise," Oda's blunt voice cut in.

"Oda!" Takeuchi craned his neck to leer at his colleague still up on the crater's edge, "Come down from there. You could show some gratitude to these kids."

Oda shrugged, "They Don't need to hear anymore. One's already saved my life. I doubt he needs to know how grateful I am," he flicked his eyes over to Kouji for a second, who gave a small nod, "Besides, someone has to pull you all out of that hole." Takeuchi hummed in agreement, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Chief, if we want to get these kids out of here discreetly, we best go now before any of the curious crowd shows up."

"Right," Takeuchi sighed, "let's get you kids home."

'Um, wait!" Takuya quickly stopped, "If you don't mind, we already have a meetup spot picked out. Could you take us there?"

Takeuchi eyed him for a second but then gave him an agreeing nod.

At the brink of dawn, the park was still filled the worried chatter and nervous pacing. It had calmed somewhat with the sky switching from its ominous layout to a more awesome and somehow peaceful scene. But there was still the question of the whereabouts of their children.

"It'll be morning soon." Mr. Kanbara commented staring out at the city.

"Then why aren't they back yet?" next to him, his wife desperately asked him. He had no answer. He rubbed her shoulder reassuringly.

"Radios' working!" They then heard Mr. Himi call. They both immediately turned on the news. Quickly the jogged over to Himi, who was leaning over Shibayama's car. Shibiyama himself was in the driver's seat fiddling with his radio.

"It's over the emergency broadcast…still a bit choppy, but we're getting something," he said as the radio voice started coming through.

"…from our emergency broadcast station…communications are slowly coming back…still little information has come forward about the bizarre and frightening occurrences tonight…police have not released any information on just what or who was involved in these horrid events, nor the cause…we have not received any information on the strange patterns that have cast across the sky as of yet…if and when these details will be given, we'll be sure to let you know…"

"Seems nobody knows anything…especially not about the kids," Mr. Shibiyama grumbled, turning the radio down.

"I think the kids won," Ms. Kimura commented, "Just look at that. That at least more pleasant than before." She said, pointing to the sky.

"It's a much better view, I admit," Mrs. Minamoto added, "If they won, that means they're also safe right?"

"The police might have found them." Mrs. Himi suggested.

"Hopefully not! I don't want to reunite with my son at the police station!" Mr. Shibayama grumbled. It made everyone worry. Mrs. Minamoto turned to her husband. He was simply staring at the ground, lost in thought with an unreadable expression on his face. It was an annoying trait both father and son shared.

"Stop that!" Mrs. Orimoto then shouted at them, "Can't you have a little positivity?"

"I can!" Shibiyama snapped back, "Sorry if I'm afraid the know-nothing cops mistake my son as a monster during all this chaos!" Zoe's mom huffed indignantly. She looked down at the phone in her hand. Her expression slowly turned sad.

Mrs. Kanbara approached her, "Are the phones…" Mrs. Orimoto shook her head before she could even ask.

"Service is shaky. I can't get more than one bar." She sighed. Silence surrounded them again. Mrs. Kanbara couldn't bear the awkward air. Turning away, she spotted Leah standing by herself and gazing longingly at the sky. She walked up next to her. Leah didn't acknowledge her, but somehow, she knew she was there.

"It's very pretty," Mrs. Kanbara commented, watching the various dancing color of the sky, "much better than before."

Leah remained silent for a moment. She chewed on her bottom lip while remaining locked on the sky. "…Can you see it?" She then asked in a hushed voice.

"Hmm?" Mrs. Kanbara didn't quite hear her.

Leah sighed, finally turning her head slightly towards the woman, though still not directly looking at her, "I was trying to see the other world if I could," she spoke softly, shifting nervously. Mrs. Kanbara smiled at the girl. She could tell she was trying to distract herself from how worried she was about her son. A little distraction sounded nice right now. Leah, almost feeling the woman's smile on her, allowed herself to take a glance at the woman's face. The sight of her warm smile calmed her slightly.

"Takuya told me a little about that world," Leah began. The older hummed but listened closely, "He said it was weird and at times stuff that happened didn't make a lot of sense. He had friends there. He was adamant in telling me that not all the Digimon were like the rampaging monsters we've been seeing," she looked back at the sky, humming softly, "I think he missed that world sometimes."

"…I think you're right," Mrs. Kanbara said. Leah spun her head back to her. The woman's smile had not faltered a bit, "I would catch him staring off into space time after time looking…sad. I've tried many times to ask why. He would always shake it off, saying it's nothing," she suddenly let out a small laugh, "Well now I feel a bit jealous, how easily he confides to you."

Leah reddened at the comment and returned her attention to the ground. Mrs. Kanbara's heart went out to the young woman. She was such a sweet girl and her son had better consider himself lucky to be with her. She didn't think any other girl could honestly handle him. She would roll her eyes at the countless time he had pushed her to the edge. Her hand landed on the girl's shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Leah started slightly at the contact but was quick to give the woman her best smile in return.

Mizuki watched them from a safe distance. She squeezed her arm. The cellphone in her hand felt more like a paperweight. She sighed. She thought about how worried her family must be. Her mother was probably throwing a huge hissy fit wondering where her daughter was. She wondered how more upset she would be if she knew what her daughter had been doing, but she didn't need to tell her...ever. Another sigh passed through her nose. She wished she felt more at peace but that was easier said than done. Of course, not making it any easier was the annoying amount of impatient grumbling going on behind her.

"Would you please stop that," Mizuki rolled her eyes at Jaden's irritated groaning. She spun around to the boys. Renji was pacing back and forth. Jaden was leaning against the van glaring impatiently at him. Lucas was sitting on the ground next to Jaden, looking bored as usual.

"Stop whining, Matsutani," Renji scoffed back, returning his glare.

"You're giving me a headache. Just sit still," Jaden complained some more. Renji snorted a laugh.

"Excuse me," Renji said as condescending as he could, "I'd rather not sit on my ass and do nothing like that one," he pointed at Lucas, who only shot him a bored glance, "or become a grumbling old man like you're turning out to be."

Mizuki was getting tired of all this bickering. She saw Jaden's eyes grow harsher and that could only mean a shouting match was on the way. Well, no more, "Alright that's enough you guys!" She quickly stepped. The two boys' attentions quickly turned to her. Mizuki took a calming breath, "Everybody anxious and tired…can we not start a fight again," she sighed, sick and tired of these boys. Renji took another quick glare at Jaden before rolling his eyes and resuming his pacing. Jaden was still irritated. Mizuki could see another bout of arguing coming.

"I mean it, Matsutani," she pointed a scolding glare at him, "Let it go." Low grumbles we're stuck in Jaden's throat. He slowly relented though. His head rolled back with a long, drawn-out sigh.

"I don't think we'll have to wait much longer at least," Jaden said.

"They won?" Renji inquired.

"Would it look like that if they lost?" Jaden replied, pointing at the sky, "I'm sure if it went the other way, we'd all be dead in a snap." Despite his rather morbid answer, Mizuki felt some relief. She turned her gaze back to the sky. The remnants of the digital world had all but nearly vanished. Her brow furrowed. For all she tried, she couldn't remember much of that other world. It was all very cloudy. Perhaps that was justice. She was helping a man to destroy it, why should she have any memories left of that world. She didn't deserve it. Life should just go on as it had always been. That would be fair… but why did it make her unhappy?

"Everything will go back to the way it was?" She wondered.

"Why wouldn't it?" Jaden replied. The girl's shoulders fell slightly. She had been acting strangely, Jaden had noticed it. Her usual attitude, however snippy and rude it might have been, had slowly diminished throughout the night. Jaden sighed, "Is that a problem?" He asked.

"…No," she replied. She didn't sound too sure of herself, something Jaden cocked his brow at. Mizuki turned her head back at the silence. She saw Jaden's dubious scowl and sighed, "Maybe…I don't know. Can things go back to being the same old, same old? After everything that's happened?"

"Oh, would you stop whining," Lucas suddenly butted in with a groan.

Mizuki turned a sharpened gaze towards him, "I'm not looking for any sort of insight from you," she spat at him.

"Oh, I'm sorry," He faux lamented, hand dramatically over his heart, "am I not considered smart enough regard you princess. Honestly, I just think it's hilarious that it took you this long to realize how much of a bitch you were." Mizuki stiffened. Jaden roughly kicked him in the shin.

"OW! The hell's your problem!?" Lucas howled. Jaden glowered silently over him. Lucas huffed, "Heh, still trying to be a white knight? Save it. It doesn't suit you."

"You should just go back to being quiet," Renji sighed.

"Look, I'm just calling it like I see it while you guys are still riding the pity train," Lucas grumbled, "Everyone else here has their own problems, don't act like you're so special."

"Why do I bother?" Mizuki shook her head and turned away, "Always a prick," she mumbled loudly.

"Hey! At least I'm honest about it!" Lucas snapped at her, "No one is coming to help you, princess. Learn to help yourself," he huffed and returned to leaning back against the van, sealing his lips tightly shut. Here came the awkward silence again. Jaden grumbled silently. He couldn't bear to admit that Nishimura's words held some truth. No, he would never admit that. Why give the little douchebag any kind of boost? He turned back to Mizuki, silently staring off in the distance. With a heavy sigh, he approached her. Honestly, he had not ever been good with people, on an empathetic level at least.

"Terada," he called out softly to her, "look, don't listen to that-,"

"Don't Jaden," Mizuki was quick to stop him, "I'm not upset about him." Jaden hummed, not completely buying it. Mizuki rolled her eyes, "I don't know what I really want, but," she took a deep breath, "I know I want something to change…maybe something inside me." Jaden lowly hummed some more. Mizuki huffed lightly and shook her head. "No comment?" She asked, though with the faintest of smirks.

"Do what you want," Jaden shrugged, "Shouldn't care what I think."

"Right…I don't," she huffed. After a moment of pause, she looked up to him, "…what about you then?"

"What about me?" He retorted.

"Are you satisfied…how it all ended?" She asked.

Jaden paused for a moment. His blue eyes shifted to watch Anzu comforting her grandfather. The old man had barely moved an inch from his spot, looking up at the sky. Maybe, somehow, he knew what had happened. Anzu kept by his side. Her smile was bittersweet, but her eyes held such relief. There was a similar relief he felt inside him, and maybe somewhere there was also hope.

"Who says this is the end. It could easily be a new beginning." He spoke with a soft smile. Mizuki blinked at him, confused. She opened her mouth to speak.

"Car lights!" Renji suddenly called out. Everybody started and turned to the tree line. Up the small path leading to them, two pairs of headlights were slowly pacing towards them. It was two police cars. They came to a stop just a yard away from the crowd. Everyone waited with bated breath as the engines died and a figure emerged from the driver's side. Leah lit up as she recognized him.

"Dad!" Leah's face lit up as she watched him climb out. He was safe, but he was moving slow. Was he hurt? He turned to her and almost sensing her concern, he smiled. He tapped on his car, looking into his passengers. The passenger door then opened. Leah's smile brightened, and she heard relieved breaths come from the crowd when Takuya stepped out. Kouji, Zoe, J.P, Tommy, and Kouichi soon emerged from both cars as well. They looked roughed up but each smiled as they saw their families.

Takuya stepped forward, "Hey…um," he stumbled with his words, "…I say, this is some welcome home party." He chuckled nervously.

"Takuya," Kouji groaned behind him. Takuya shrugged back at him; what was he supposed to say? At that moment, Takuya's mother stepped forward. Takuya shrunk as she came closer while staring down at him with that classic mother's stare, one he had seen too many times to count.

Takuya gulped as he hesitantly looked his mother in the eye, "H-hi," an awkward pause lingered between them. Here comes some punishment, Takuya had braced himself for this, "Look, mom…I know you're angry…I didn't want any of this…" Suddenly, his mother flung her arms around his shoulders, bringing him close to her in a tight embrace. Takuya stopped his blabbering. He felt her grip tighten further and her whole body was shivering.

"Mom?" he worried over her.

She gave a small sniffle, "…You are in so much trouble," she told him. Her voice was shaky, but her tone was light. Takuya couldn't help but smile and give in to the warmth and safety of his mother's embrace.

"Yeah, I know," he laughed, suppressing the heartfelt tears ready to fall. Takuya watched as soon as his friend started reuniting themselves with their families. Kouji and Kouichi were being embraced by their father, with both Mrs. Minamoto and Ms. Kimura standing above them happily. Tommy and his dad were doing their best to console his crying mother. Zoe's mom was fretting over her daughter's scrapes, with Zoe just chuckling softly trying to stop her. Not too far from them, J.P and his father were having some lighthearted bantering. J.P seemed to nervously overexplain while his dad just shook his head, but at least he looked relieved.

"Takuya," Takuya turned at his dad's voice. He was looking at him inquisitively, "There's a lot you need to explain."

Takuya sighed, "Figured that, but I don't know if I can explain everything."

His mother pulled back from him, "You can't explain that's you've been involved with those monsters all these years?" She inquired.

"It wasn't all these years," Takuya shrugged sheepishly, "Just since that first attack."

"And what about five years ago?" His dad questioned.

"Well yeah…that too," Takuya rubbed the back of his neck. There was no way out of this, "I'm in big trouble, aren't I?"

"Not as much as you think." His dad admitted.

Takuya chuckled a little in relief but still frowned, "Listen…it's like I wanted to lie to you, none of us did! We just wanted to keep everyone safe."

"And that doesn't include worrying us to death?" His mom quipped. Takuya shrugged, and his mom just shook her head. She moved her fingers brush away a few strands of hair clinging to his forehead. Doing so, she also brushed against the small, barely visible scrapes around his eye and upper cheek. They were healing fast, much to her surprise and minimal delight. But the sight was unpleasant none the less and the fear gripped tightly.

"Is it…over at least?" she asked while swallowing a shaky breath.

"Yeah…don't worry. Everybody's safe," Takuya answered softly, and it brought a smile to his mother's face.

"Good," she sighed, "You know...you still have a lot more explaining to do later."

"So…I'm still not in trouble?" Takuya shrugged.

His mother laughed and stood up, "Be grateful you have such good spokespeople," her eyes moved to the side. Takuya followed her gaze to Leah standing off to the side, speaking with her father. Takuya's heart thumped. He couldn't tear his eyes away. She finally turned to spot him, and her smile made his stomach flip with delight, but then it turned to nervous nausea when her father followed her gaze. He quickly swallowed it all down as Chief Takeuchi briskly approached him.

He chuckled at the young man's fidgeting. "Not still worried about monsters I hope?" he cocked his brow at him.

"Not at all, sir!" Takuya stiffened with a quick response. The chief smiled at him.

"Thank you, officer," Takuya's father then spoke up, "For bringing our son back to us."

Takeuchi shook his head. "Really I should be the one showing gratitude. These kids did far more than we ever could. They saved us all," he said.

"No big deal," Takuya hummed, hands resting comfortably behind his head, "we only did what we had to do; save the world, rescue some people, beat the bad guy. All in a day's work for a hero."

"Humbleness included," Kouji snipped behind him, Kouichi chuckling along. Takuya shot them both a sour glare.

"Well, I should be heading back now," the Chief then said, "they'll be wanting me there for cleanup. And I'm sure the press is clamoring for answers." He turned to his daughter. "Will you be alright here, Leah?" He asked.

"I'll be fine dad. Don't worry," she smiled.

"We'll help her get home," Mrs. Kanbara added.

"Thank you," Takeuchi said and then turned back towards his car.

"You're handling the press," Oda stated as he watched the Chief.

"Don't feel up to speaking to the cameras tonight?" Takeuchi asked while chuckling.

Oda huffed, annoyed. "I don't feel like feeding a pack of bloodthirsty paparazzi. 'Madmen and superheroes' wouldn't that make a great headline."

"…and the kids?" Takeuchi asked in a more hushed tone. Oda, who was now sitting in his car, paused for a moment.

He looked to his friend with a cocked brow. "Kids? What kids? I think you hurt more than your ribs, chief." He shut his door quickly after that and the Chief was left no other response than the revving of the car engine. Takeuchi, albeit slightly stunned by his friend's antics, gave a hardy chuckle and shake of his head. He got into his car, but not before giving a final salute to everyone than getting behind the wheel and driving away from the crowd, Oda's car in tow.

"Everything's okay now," Takuya heard Leah mumble next to him. Her eyes were cast to the ground. It sounded like more of a reassurance to herself than anything else.

"Yep," Takuya smiled at her. "I think your dad likes me," he turned to her with a goofy grin.

Leah chuckled, a sound he was happy to hear. "Someone has to," she stated.

"Oh, come on," Takuya let out a puppyish whine.

Leah rolled her eyes. "Whining doesn't suit the hero image," she teased, poking at his chest.

Takuya gently grasped her hand. "Does this hero still get a reward?" He asked, winking suggestively. It made Leah's cheeks flush only slightly.

"Being a hero is its own reward, Takuya," Zoe said, snapping the two out of their moment, "Where did all that humbleness go?"

"Well, uh." Takuya grinned sheepishly and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Do us all a favor and keep that stuff to yourselves. I don't want to see it," Kouji said.

Kouichi had the widest grin glancing between Kouji and Zoe. "Like you two are ones to talk. I got an upfront show back there." Kouichi glanced at his brother with a mischievous glint. Kouji fell silent, cheeks turning crimson as he pointed his attention to the ground.

"Oh?" Leah's expression copied Kouichi's. "Did something happen?" Her eyes were glued towards Zoe.

Zoe, turning pink, hurried to change the subject. "What about them?" She looks over to Jaden, Mizuki, and the others.

"Hmm, I don't think you'll have to worry about them. They seem sorry," Leah answered.

"I hope so. For all the mess they helped cause," J.P interjected.

"J.P!" Zoe slapped his arm.

"What! We're all thinking it! Kouji?" J.P looked to his friend for support. Kouji took the wise route and stayed quiet.

"It's not like it was their fault though, not really," Tommy tried to mediate.

"I guess," J.P grumbled.

Takuya chuckled. "Hey, everything's fine now. I say let bygones be bygones. We can be friends that way."

"I wouldn't go that far, Kanbara," Jaden startled everyone as he crept into the group.

"Jaden!" Takuya jumped and faced him. It was surprising to see Jaden's face for once not colored in anger. Takuya paused. God, this felt more awkward than it should. How do you bridge the gap after everything that's happened? Takuya had to try, "Hey Jaden…"

"Don't even try Takuya," Jaden quickly stopped him. With a heavy sigh he continued, "…I'm sorry…for everything."

Takuya shrugged, "It's no big deal. It all turned out fine in the end."

Jaden snicker and shook his head, "You're way too forgiving, Kanbara."

"Eh, no point in fighting anymore," Takuya said, "You can still hate me if you want."

"It wasn't…you I hated," Jaden cut him off. Takuya paused, wanting to say something, but decided against it. Jaden turned around, "I can't speak for the others," he glanced over the three behind him, "but I'd like to…try and make amends." He smiled as best he could back at Takuya.

Takuya grinned, "Sure, we can."

"I think the others are just as sorry," Leah suggested.

"Don't expect us all to become buddy-buddy after this," Kouji said.

"Sure, but it's a start," Zoe added. As the older teens continued to talk, Tommy was distracted. He was looked over to the other three, Renji in particular. Last time he saw the older teen, he was in a lot of pain from Solomon's corruption. It made him worry and he hurried over to him.

"Tommy!" J.P called after him. Tommy ignored him as he approached Renji. The older teen glanced down as he approached.

"Himi," he greeted him with an atypical monotone.

"Renji," Tommy greeted him back. At least he didn't seem angry. Tommy expected a more growling or threatening tone from him, as was usual in the past. This could either be a good or bad sign.

"Hey, you okay? Does your head still hurt?" Tommy asked him. Renji blinked, bewildered.

"Why are you acting so concerned?" Renji snipped.

"Who said it was an act?" Tommy rebutted.

Renji shook his head. "You're a weird kid, Himi," he snickered, "I'm fine."

"That's good," Tommy grinned. Renji looked away. This conversation was awkward enough as is, but Tommy wanted at some kind of peace between them after this.

"I guess I owe you an apology," Renji suddenly said, "For everything. You didn't have to do what you did."

Tommy was a little surprised by him. "We did what we had to do."

Renji raised a brow, "Stop us?"

"Save you," Tommy corrected.

Renji grinned. "Yeah, you and your friends are strange. Though not all bad."

"So, can we have a truce?" Tommy extended a hand towards him. Renji eyed him for a moment before grabbing his hand with one firm shake.

"Sure. We should be even anyway since you already kicked my ass," Renji smirked. Tommy smiled too, in relief.

"Hope you keep your word, Renji," J.P walked up to the two. Renji raised his gaze to the intruding teen.

"Trust me Shibiyama, I'm not looking for another fight," Renji said.

"Good to know," J.P grinned. He latched his hand atop Tommy's head and ruffled his hair, "I was getting tired of you messing with our little buddy here."

"Come on! Quit it!" Tommy groaned, though with a smile, at his friend's teasing.

Renji snickered. "Trust me, I'm not looking for another fight with you or your friends. I'm not that dumb or petty."

"That's good," J.P laughed, "Looks like you learned your lesson."

"Hmpf, unlike some," Renji turned around and eyed Lucas, who was sitting silently in the van. His attention had been glued to something on his phone. He looked like he was texting someone. He finally glanced up when he felt Renji's glare on him.

"What?" He grumbled at the three.

"That all you got to say?" Renji huffed.

Lucas sneer. "Okay fine," Lucas glanced over to Tommy and J.P. Putting on some over-exaggerated puppy dog eyes, he said, "I've done some bad things. Please forgive me."

Renji growled at the bratty teen, "You little prick! I oughta…"

"Just let him be a jackass," J.P stopped him, "He's harmless now anyway."

Renji clicked his teeth, "Still just annoying though."

Lucas rolled his eyes and returned to his phone. J.P harbored a guess on who he was texting, but decided it was none of his business. He huffed and began to walk away.

"Shibiyama," Lucas stopped him. J.P turned back to him. "We're even now, you got that?" Lucas growled.

J.P raised a brow at him but eventually gave a small nod. "Sure," was his short response.

"Still sore after getting your ass kicked?" Renji taunted.

Lucas sneered. "You wanna start something now? Go ahead!"

"No! We're not gonna start fighting again!" Tommy quickly intervened. He could already see Renji reaching a boiling point and it would not have been pretty. Both Renji and Lucas continued their glaring contest.

"Knock it off you two!" Mizuki suddenly came between them, "Don't indulge him, Nomura," she pointed at Renji. Renji sneered but walked away. She turned to Lucas, "And you, do you think you cannot be an ass for just one day?"

Lucas pondered this for a minute. "Well, out of fear of upsetting the princess…maybe," Lucas jeered.

Mizuki rolled her eyes. "Why do I even bother?" she muttered to herself. She then grabbed the car door and slammed it shut. Lucas's muffled grumbles could be heard.

"Thanks, Mizuki," J.P chuckled.

Mizuki crossed her arms. "Someone had to shut him up."

"Probably just pissed him off more," J.P added.

"Oh, I'm so scared," she shrugged. She walked back over to her spot in front of the van and leaned back against it again. She sighed.

"Mizuki?" she raised her gaze and saw Zoe standing before her.

"What do you want Orimoto?" she asked her. Thankfully it wasn't in the usual snippy tone she had with her. That made Zoe somewhat relieved.

"Are you okay?" Zoe asked. Mizuki refrained from rolling her eyes. Of course, Orimoto would concern herself with that.

"I'm fine," she curtly responded.

"Alright," Zoe turned to walk away.

"Wait," Mizuki stopped her, "I should say thank you at least…you saved my life a few times back in that world."

Zoe turned back and offered a smile, "You're welcome, I guess. Did you think I would just leave you back there?"

"We're not exactly friends," Mizuki stated.

Zoe shrugged. "No…but I'd like not to be enemies." She said.

Mizuki went silent for a second but then gave a small nod. "Sure, I guess that's fair." She shrugged, "Oh, and you don't have to worry about getting between you and Minamoto anymore...though I don't think you had much to worry about before." She glanced over Zoe's shoulder. Zoe turned around and caught Kouji observing them both from a distance. Zoe snickered and turned back to Mizuki.

"Thank you," Zoe gave her a small smile. Mizuki gave a shrug and half a grin before turning away back to an indifferent stare. Zoe shook her head. Some things just take time she guessed. she could feel a certain impatient boy's gaze still on her. With a skip and a smirk, she turned and trotted over to him.

Kouji watched her with a perked brow. "Everything alright?" He asked.

Zoe smiled up at him, "You worry too much."

"Considering everything that's happened, I think I worry just the right amount," he rebutted.

Zoe rolled her eyes, "Whatever, you're impossible to argue with."

"That a good or bad thing?" Kouji asked.

"Hmm, I'm not sure yet," Zoe smirked.

Kouji grinned, "Well, would you have an answer if I asked you out?"

Zoe raised a brow. "Are you asking me out?" She smiled at him.

"I figured I'd ask now before some other crazy thing happens," he shrugged. Zoe chuckled and stepped closer to him. Inches apart, she stared up at his intense blue gaze. Before he could say anything, she quickly pulled his face down and kissed him. It was a quick peck, but it was enough to stun the boy as she pulled away.

She smirked, "Consider that a yes, as well as payback for before."

Kouji blinked at her before smirking back, "I thought girls liked spontaneity?"

"From you, that is a surprise," she said, "And maybe next time not in the middle of a war zone," Kouji smirked at her. He felt so at peace with her so close. He'll be sure to try and keep it that way from now on.

"Well I'm happy for you two," Kouichi suddenly appeared next to the couple. He slung his arm around his brothers' shoulder. "Especially if he stops sulking after this."

Kouji growled at his brother, but Zoe just laughed at the two. "Come on now, don't start teasing your brother," she giggled.

"That'll never happen," Kouji shrugged. "Besides, he should know better, considering…" Kouichi cocked a brow at his brother.

"Guys!" Kouichi's head swiftly turned towards a familiar voice. Anzu was speeding towards them. Zoe welcomed her over with a cheerful smile and embraced her. "I'm so glad you're all back," she said as she released her friend.

"Was there any doubt?" Zoe smiled.

Anzu shook her head. "No…but I was a little scared. We all were," she admitted.

"I promised we'd come back, didn't I?" Kouichi said. Anzu smiled at him with a small nod, but she still had a worried look in her eyes.

Takuya, having noticed Anzu approach them, ran over. "Anzu!" He stopped in front of the girl, "Hey! Everybody made it okay, I see."

Anzu nodded, but her smiled faded. When she saw her friend's concern, she looked behind to her grandfather. Mr. Suzumara stood alone, staring up towards the sky.

"He's been quiet like that for a while. I don't know what to do," Anzu lamented. Takuya frowned and without a second thought ran towards to older man. Suzumara didn't acknowledge him as he approached.

"Professor?" Takuya called to him quietly. Suzumara glanced over to the teen.

He smiled, "You kids did it."

Takuya nodded, "Yeah," an awkward pause fell between them. Takuya decided to be the one to break it, "…thank you," he said.

Suzumara huffed, "I don't know why you're thanking me. I have much more to apologize for."

"You and your granddaughter have helped us a lot," Takuya stated, "We don't blame you for anything."

"…Is he gone," Suzumara asked. Takuya paused. Words stopped dead in his throat. He nodded; it was all he could muster at that moment. Suzumara went back to silence. His solemn gaze became fixated at the ground. Takuya couldn't bear it; the guilt was clear.

"I don't know if this helps but…as he faded away, I think he was at peace…finally free of all that darkness," he spoke, watching his friend for any reaction. Suzumara did finally break his gaze from the ground and returned it to the sky. Slowly, his mouth formed into a content smirk. It wasn't much, but enough to make Takuya smile. A short-lived one though, as Suzumara suddenly gasped.

"What's that?" he seemed in awe.

Takuya looked to the sky. His eyes widened. A giant ball of light was descending towards them, growing larger as it grew nearer. Takuya's eyes were glued to it. Nervous murmurs were coming from behind him, but all he felt was a familiar warmth. The orb floated gently down in front of the gathering crowd. Takuya stood upfront. The others followed after him. They must've felt what he had felt as they all were now anxiously watching. Slowly, a figure began to form in the halo of light. It stepped forward and Takuya smiled.

"Seraphimon!" he greeted to angel digimon.

"We never expected to see you in our world!" Tommy exclaimed with delight.

Seraphimon looked over the six fondly, "I wanted to see you children again, now that the dark disturbance is gone."

"So, you're here to thank us then?" J.P asked.

Zoe elbowed him, "J.P!"

"Ow! What?" He rubbed his side.

"That's rude," Zoe scowled.

Seraphimon chuckled, "But he's not wrong. Once again, you've saved both worlds from destruction. We're in your debt."

"Eh, it was no trouble," Takuya shrugged.

"Are you sure about that?" Kouji retorted.

"Anyway," Kouichi chimed in, "I'm sure you're here not just to thank us," he stated.

There was a saddening pause. Seraphimon looked to the sky. The colors were flashing across in a rhythmic pattern. "The barrier between worlds is being healed. Though it may pain me to say, hopefully, it will remain closed permanently," Seraphimon sound melancholy, "This world just isn't meant for digimon."

"And that means…" Tommy grew downcast.

"I am sorry," Seraphimon stated, "but the spirits must return to the digital world. It's time to say goodbye."

Their hearts collectively sank. Takuya clutched his chest as a deep pain set in. this was inevitable. He knew that, but still, it hurt. Agunimon was a part of him. He felt like crying. He would lose the warmth of the spirit of fire. He turned to his friends. He met with Kouji's sympathetic gaze. His friend motioned him to the others. They all looked at him with solemn anticipation. It made him crack a smile. Through everything, they still wanted him to guide them.

Takuya sighed then faced Seraphimon. "We understand. We're ready," he nodded, fighting back some tears.

"Very well," Seraphimon held out his hand. A bright light came from his palm. Everyone became transfixed on its illuminance. Takuya leaned into to it but suddenly gasped as a quick rush a warmth welled up in his chest. Right above his heart, he could see the glowing symbol of fire. From his chest, an opaque ball of red light began to rise out of his chest. It was similar for the others too. The balls floated right in front of them and then the ghostly forms of the spirits appeared in front of their respective owners. The spirits looked so happy, proud even, as they gazed upon the teens.

"Agunimon," Takuya tried to speak, but the spirit merely chuckled.

"I never liked goodbyes much. Too depressing," the spirit said but kept a smile.

"Ah, that's 'cause you're so sappy, my friend," Beetlemon stated.

"You wouldn't miss me?" J.P joked to his spirit. Beetlemon hummed.

"Oh please, tough guy over there is just a big softie," Kazemon shook her head.

Zoe laughed but held a sad smile, "I had wished to see you again, just not like this," she said to the spirit.

Kazemon's smile was warm, "Fate is not always what we wish for," she then gave a cute giggle, "but it's not like you need us anymore. Humans grow up so fast."

"Too fast!" Kumamon then whined, "Can't believe you're now taller than me." He looked up at Tommy.

Tommy sheepishly grinned, "Don't hold that against me too much. I still don't know what I'd do without you."

"Ahh, you'll be fine! It's more like the other way around," Kumemon said, "You guys do pretty well taking down monsters."

"Of all sorts," Lowemon added, looking at Kouichi.

"Lowemon," the teen gazed at his spirit.

Lowemon shook his head, "Don't fret on it too much, Kouichi," he said with a stern gaze. Kouichi opened his mouth but then promptly closed it. Hanging on the spirit's words, he lowered his head in solemn peace.

"Will this be it then? We'll never see you again, or the digital world?" Kouji asked.

"Maybe, and maybe that's for the best," Lobomon responded. He looked to Agunimon. Then with a shrug, "But who can say. Nothing is absolute," he said.

Agunimon grinned. He then turned to Seraphimon, "It's time to go."

Seraphimon nodded and with a wave of his hand he was engulfed in light and ascended quickly back to the sky, to the digital world. The six spirits remained only a bit longer as their bodies began to fade away with the glimmer of the dawn's light.

"Goodbye," Takuya said barely above a whisper. He smiled at Agunimon who returned the gesture with earnest. It was only a moment more until the bodies disappeared completely, replaced by six glowing orbs. The orbs shot up and hit the sky with a wave of vibrant colors. They washed over the sky, past the city skyline then past the horizon where they flew out of sight, replaced the colors of the sunrise.

Takuya's eyes were glued to the sky when someone grabbed his hand. He was broken out of his daze to see Leah looking at him, sympathy framing her face. "Will you be okay?" she asked him.

Takuya blinked at her. He looked back to the sky. Nothing remained. No trace of that world, but he didn't feel sad for some reason. Nothing is absolute. Those words echoed in his mind and he smiled.

"Yeah," he said, a grin widening on his face, "Everything will be fine." He knew it would be. He knew that, despite the barriers, that he and Agunimon could never truly be apart. Maybe his friends knew that too as he saw them all wearing similar smiles. There was a fire still inside that he could feel and there was always a chance. A chance for a new frontier.

WOW! I can't believe I'm done. It's been an interesting couple of years with this story and I'm so grateful to all who stuck around till the end. This story is done but I want to start on more soon. Maybe another frontier fic in the future. I also have some stories I want to get back too, finish, start, reedit, all the good stuff. Thank you to all my lovely people who have read and left your encouraging reviews. A whole lot of stuff going on when this story is finished so I just wanna say to all stay safe and be kind to each other

Till next we meet my lovely peeps.