Episode 10: オペレーションユリウスパート1: その他の3週間!
Operation Julius - Part 1: The Other Three Weeks!
Ikusen no eien wo kurikaesu
Hateshinai kodoku no yami no naka de
Anata wo sagashiteta
Zutto sagashiteita
Inryoku ni michibikareru mama
The City of Sportsbrooke: After the teams left to Bota Duniya: Week 1
After receiving word from Akashi on his absence, Eikichi Nebuya and Kotarou Hayama were left in charge of Sportsbrooke. Tetsuya 2 barked happily in the main office while running around in circles.
"Simple enough," Eikichi read the instructions of files that Akashi left behind.
"Just don't try to run it to the ground," Kotarou sighed, "Akashi's depending on us. And be sure you read them thoroughly too."
Eikichi turned to the window as he saw what looked like a vortex flying out across the desert before disappearing into the skies as the clouds dissolved.
At the Shigino apartment, Kisumi looked at a photo of himself and his brother Hayato. He clutched it close to his heart as he missed him very much. After Oikawa was killed, he had yet to see the grave but he knew it was not far from here.
I wonder how long it'll be before they return, he thought
After discovering of his "magic", the pink-peach haired boy wondered what this could be a sign of. His talent in basketball was growing and his teaching to the new players in town was giving him an edge of his skill.
Kuroko once told me about the zone, his mind continued, could this be what is he talking about? But then again, why did my clothes change like Makoto and the others? There's no way I am a senshi like them.
"It's because it's not your time yet," a voice said.
He turned to see a small golden doggy with marks on its forehead.
"A puppy…did you talk?" he asked.
"I am indeed someone of help," it spoke, "I know of why you transformed back when you were in danger with him."
"Who are you?" Kisumi asked.
"Let's say I am a friend of Makoto and the others," it replied, "I know of your brother's situation too at home. He's doing alright with his swimming."
"That's good to hear," he smiled a little, "Now please explain to me…about my powers?"
Sportsbrooke Eco Park (When it was still open spaced)
"I'm so bummed I didn't get to go with them," sighed Riko.
"Why did you wanted to go? Or did you wanted to tease Aomine?" Momoi asked.
"Girl…" Riko stared at her as the pink haired giggled, "That's your man! Or wait, I thought you'd like Kuro-chan!"
"Just kidding, gosh," she sighed, "I know you worry for Kuroko especially…and I must admit, he's changed."
"They all did," Riko answered, "After meeting with Alexa and the others…it's like as if everyone knew their power was not to be messed around with. Do you think they'll try to control all of us?"
"I don't think they will, they just wanted to reunite all the sports in this world like the old era," Momoi said, "I miss Kuro-chan but all of them have become a family."
The leaves on some of the trees drifted away as some of the flowers landed down on the pond, creating ripples across. One of the flowers landed in front of them.
"But most of all, I do hope they can save him…" Momoi whispered, "There's no telling what kind of pain they'll suffer."
By the Princess Goddess Plaza
Makoto Hanamiya and his son Tatsuya "Himuro" Hanamiya sat down by the fountain of the plaza. After learning that Kagami was going to join the others to find the other savior and save Alexa, Tatsuya decided to stay with his father to begin their journey to find the mother.
The father took out a coin which was a talisman he was given while he was "dead" that would summon a friend who can help them leave this world. He flipped the coin into the fountain.
"Can you hear me now…?" he asked.
"Yes," a voice answered in a hologram at their eye level.
"I didn't think you'd still be here…witch boy," Makoto said.
"Your patience has brought your son back," Watanuki answered, "But are you certain about going on this new quest?"
"I think I do owe some certain apologies," he replied, "It's my fault for being weak back then…and naïve…now I should atone and start over."
"Your life was resurrected by dark magic," Watanuki continued, "You leaving this city will deteriorate your body unless you find means to put your soul into."
"I don't have anything to pay for you if I could," the father said.
Tatsuya mind sparked an idea as he took out the baby rattle that was meant to be his.
"How about this, can this get us out of here and hopefully find a body for my father?" Tatsuya asked.
"Hmmm…this rattle is indeed precious of your father's to you…it won't suffice completely but it will get you guys out of here. I can send you both to a world where you can find a new body to find…after that we will talk more about the price," witch boy replied.
Tatsuya handed it over to Watanuki through the hologram just as a magical circle spun beneath their feet.
"Use it well…and good luck," he answered as the two vanished.
Since the departure of the others, Tetsurou Kuroo, Kotarou Bokuto, Keiji Akaashi and Daichi Sawamura were placed in charge of the White Doves that were left behind.
They began their training to new players who signed up and monitored their progress. Many of them were starting to develop some of their strengths and skills but the pace was rather time consuming.
"Seems a bit slow don't you think?" Kuroo shrugged.
"We'll get them all top notched in no time," Kotarou smiled.
"I honestly didn't think half of our group would just leave like that," said Daichi, "But I guess there's no doubt on what will be happening to them out there."
Kuroo kept a close eye on Lev Haiba on his middle blocking as the man was also a bit determined like Shouyou to reach the ace level. He chuckled when Ryūnosuke Tanaka spiked and Lev missed.
He's gonna need to sharpen that if he wants to fight it back, Kuroo thought.
"Aye Lev, take it easy!" he shouted out.
Hounan Valley
With their village restored from the ruins of the Drug Era, the inhabitants began to celebrate their Stride culture on special events and marathons.
As for Takeru, he continued his usual techniques while observing the massive city from the mountains. Riku and Tomoe followed him there as they properly set a flag at the top.
"This is gonna be so awesome!" Riku smiled, "I can't wait to show the new participants the fruits of the wonders!"
"I wonder what kind of legs they got," muttered Takeru.
"Oi, stop fantasizing!" said Tomoe, "You got Riku's legs to flirt with later."
"Hey don't put me on the spotlight!" Riku gasped before they all laughed.
Nana rode on her bike as she explored through the new town. So much of the restoration brought visitors from Sportsbrooke and the other suburbs into visiting this place. She used to be a runner herself but retired as she wanted to recruit more people to join.
Her father, Joe, continued to work alongside with the "right and left" hand of Sportsbrooke, collaborating new events for the sport of parkour.
As for the Hounan Valley, the Saisei and Mihashi villages together also merged their boundaries together, making a new town called Housaimi Center. This was a site to welcome visitors as well as the headquarters for the parkour teams.
She stopped the bike right by the center as she watched a nice size crowd waiting for tourist directors to guide them through.
Maybe I should be a volunteer and pitch in, she thought before heading to the building.
Kingdom of Hawakoto, Aqua Duniya:
Week 1 of the El Dorado Quest
On the blue, aquatic moon of Planet Olympia…
Seijuuro Mikoshiba monitored Hayato's training as the young kid practiced his backstroke. The red-haired captain was called to train the younger students while Sasabe monitored the teens and adults.
Hayato had made some good progress as of late and was also living with the Mikoshiba family for the time being.
Four of the Water Knights: Shouta Nakagawa, Takuya Uozumi, Kazuki Minami, and Toru Iwashimizu were grouped in a unit together to practice their own relay. Despite a few of the bickering moments, they finally developed their assigned swimming roles for the next festival.
Despite this, it wasn't the same without the Magic Six, Sousuke, Momotarou, and Aiichirou.
"I wish I was out there with them fighting the bad guys," Kazuki sighed as he looked at Takuya.
"You know it's not our place," Takuya replied.
"I'm just happy that we can at least access the royal pool more often. I wish the one by our facility was as fancy as this," Shouta answered.
A loud ruckus was heard as Asahi Shiina and Ikuya Kirishima were bickering something random off topic mixed in with their transition timing.
"Hey take it easy you guys, if Natsuya heard the both of you…" Takuya began.
"I can confront him without anyone's help," Ikuya said.
"Look, it's nothing as serious," Asashi shrugged.
Nao Serizawa walked in and reminded the group to finish their trials before returning to the other training facility.
Outside…
The Kingdom of Hawakoto was still serene as the sea itself. Villagers went to vendors for the markets while the kids played around happily. Life continued to flourish happily across town.
Awlida, Anne, Shirahama and Matsuura sat down together with Deana and Glena and watched a group of kids playing around the grassy fields at the outskirts of the village. They received a few souvenirs from the Magic Six during their times in Sportsbrooke as well as a couple of letters describing the new realm.
"It's so amazing that despite all the trials and tribulations, they never gave up," Deana said.
"It must be painful though to remember their past selves…" Glena replied, "I mean if I was reincarnated…well…that's a deep subject to touch."
"I wonder if we will ever leave here," Shirahama muttered.
"Why leave?" asked Awlida, "It's so beautiful here!"
"It's just that I've been hearing a wives' tale about Atlantis…and how the world at that that was once a bigger place," he answered, "Think about it…this is the only known land on the planet and it's not even big enough to be a continent!"
"It's not like we're gonna be booming our population anytime soon" shrugged Matsuura.
"Wait a second, now that you mentioned it, Makoto did write something about their memories and their true mission in the last letter," Anne answered, "They said something about bringing this world and one other to merge with the world they are currently at."
"That sounds like the skies are falling," joked Deana.
"Deana! This is serious! We might not survive if this planet crashes to the other!" Glena gasped.
"Then how do you suggest we get to the world they are at, hm?" asked the other lady.
"The kings would never put our lives at stake. I am sure they're waiting for an official word," Shirahama answered.
King Magnus woke up in a terrible gasp as he could feel the darkness now blooming in his elder's son soul. He called forth Tatsuhisa and Toraichi to hear about this news.
"This can't be!" Toraichi said, "Alexa was never meant to be born of darkness!"
"No…it's because of the death mark that I failed to remove…Makoto did what he could in his research to stop it but the only way that would achieve is that if he sacrifices his own life for Alexa's," Magnus answered, "Those two…shared a long tragic story and now it's about to repeat itself once more…"
"F-Father-sama!" Sergi cried out as he waited in the hallway.
"Sergi, is that you?" asked Tatsuhisa.
The younger brother of Alexa stepped into the master bedroom and said, "Father…this crystal…it's in my hands now. What does this mean?"
The trio gasped as the boy revealed the very Solar Crystal that once belonged to Alexa/Julius but after turning into a Dark One, the crystal reappeared here to stay as far away as possible. Magnus excused the other two kings and beckoned Sergi for a private conversation.
"This…is your brother's birthright…the Solar Crystal of Destiny," Magnus said, "Their mission was to find this very piece of jewel and to awaken the own…Prince Julius. Your brother…is that man."
"But if he's the owner of it…why did it come to me?" Sergi asked.
"I'm afraid your brother has entered a new phase of himself…a time of shadow has entered his heart," Magnus replied sadly.
"H-he turned dark?!" the younger brother gasped.
"As long as this crystal glows…he will not fall dead," Magnus said, "Keep it safe with you…do not let anyone else know about it. This is the power he needs for when the time comes for the three saviors to rebuild the lost world."
"Of course," Sergi replied, "I have faith my brother will make the right choice! We can't give up on him! Mother-sama…"
"She'll watch over him," he smiled a little, "She loved you guys very much."
"I'm just sad that I never got to meet her," Sergi answered.
"Maybe you might encounter her in the dreams…after all, this crystal as marvelous powers that are yet to be explained," Magnus said, "But please hide it though until your brother is freed from his curse."
The younger brother returned to his bedroom to hide the crystal just when he saw a cat staring at him from the windowsill. Its fur was multi-colored but it had a general tuxedo-style of black and white.
"Why hello there little kitty," Sergi smiled, "Where did you come from?"
The cat jumped down to his bed and stared at him silently. Curious, Sergi approached to the animal softly before gently scratching her fur.
Suddenly his eyes widened as he suddenly was in a vision, observing a strange place that looked like a magnificent temple like the prayer chamber. He saw a group of people that looked like…
"B-Brother!?" he shouted out but no one heard him.
W-what is this, he thought as he saw a man that looked like himself holding a book with a quill in hand.
His mind raced back to reality as he found himself alone in the room. The cat was gone.
"W-where did you go?" he called out to the cat, heading out the room to search throughout the palace.
Prayer Chamber
Gou sat down in meditation of the chamber with a couple of candles lit up. After learning from the news that Alexa has turned into a Dark One, Rin explained in a letter that they were going to be traveling to another world from Olympia.
Onii-chan…everyone, please be safe, she prayed.
A soft footstep was heard as Gou turned to see Toraichi standing at the doorway.
"Sweetie, you've been in there for too long," he answered, "Everyone's worried about you."
"I know but I can't let the others be in great pain than they're already in," she replied.
"They wouldn't want you to shed tears," he said, "Come…let us prepare for what has yet to begin."
Gou nodded before blowing the candles and leaving the chamber. Once she was changed and back outside again, Chigusa hugged her happily.
"We've missed you the last few days!" she cried.
"I'm so sorry," Gou answered, "It's just a lot has happened to the others…they're in so much pain."
"Not all travels are meant to be pleasant or joyful," Chigusa replied, "But I know they'll be home soon when they get the right time. Let's just worry about us and help out the little kids."
The Tachibana Twins along with King Tatsuhisa looked at a memory book of their family together. The siblings missed their older brother very much along with the others.
"Mommy's watching over them," Ran reassured.
"She is…along with the other queens that have long departed," Tatsuhisa nodded.
"I just hope he doesn't get hurt," Ren muttered to the side.
"Alrighty kids, how about your swim practice at the pool? You wanna impress Makoto, eh?" he asked.
"Y-yes!" the two replied and they quickly ran to their rooms to grab their bags.
The king was about to put down the book when he saw a multi-colored cat on the other couch, staring at him.
"H-hello there kitty, you want something to eat? I'm afraid Makoto's not here to take care of you but…" he began when the cat was no longer there. He shook his head and wondered if he was seeing things.
"Papa?" asked Ran.
"Oh…um, sorry about that, let's go now," he smiled.
Hosoya and the Sherwood Spiders were busy at work, constructing a tavern resort while Kuranosuke was not impressed to meet his father again. Despite the bitterness, the two were persuaded by Hosoya to settle the matters for another day.
He also learned that Hanamiya was going to depart with his son to find their missing mother/wife of the family. Despite this, they have made progress on their new business.
"Sherwood Aqua Resort!" he chuckled at the name while the crew was in a debate of naming their company.
The father of Sousuke took out a photo of himself and his son when the senshi was much younger and happier. He couldn't imagine the real pain that Sousuke went through but he was so glad to have helped the others to save him.
Like many other friends, he too received a letter from the team and was gravely concerned for the recent events.
The City of Sportsbrooke: Week 2
Several days went by as the city underwent the first phase of renovation to the West district in hopes to improve the socioeconomic statuses and the neighborhoods. A handful of construction workers were enlisted create new roadways, paths, aesthetic designs as well as new local parks for various sports.
Kisumi on the other hand was already at a cemetery but went to a hidden location of where Oikawa was buried after his death. He heard the news of the incident not long after the raid of the nerbils attacking the city. A small part of him did wish Oikawa was here in hopes to find means to change him but there was nothing that he could do. After all, the ex almost killed his younger brother which prompt his mind to forget about him.
"Here," he said to the tombstone, putting down a rose, "I cannot forgive you for what you almost did to my brother…but it is sad that you are gone."
He spilled one silent tear before walking away, heading back to his apartment. He already missed his brother despite their age differences. Was it the fact that he could take care of him?
"So you went," the dog replied upon his return.
"I did," Kisumi answered, "Out of respect at the very least despite what he almost did."
"And what about your wish? Are you ready?" the dog asked.
"No…not after what you've told me about their destiny…I don't think it is my time yet," Kisumi replied, "I will wait for their return…"
Rinnosuke Mitobe, Junpei Hyuuga and Teppei Kiyoshi visited Shun Izuki after the latter was on a week break from work. He was hosting a small party despite Kagami and Kuroko's absence.
"It's too bad they're not here," Hyuuga said.
"Perhaps but we'll have a bigger party for them when they save their friend," Kiyoshi smiled, "Those guys make an army of their own."
"I miss out on our army," Rinnosuke sighed, "We got to be heroes to save this town too!"
"Well those days don't have to be over you know," Shun answered, "Sure…we have our own lives now but that won't stop us from whatever life throws at."
"I've heard from Kagami that while they're out there…at this other world…they're going to find the final savior who will help him and Alexa reunite the fragments of this original land," Kiyoshi said.
"Really!?" gasped Rinosuke and Hyuuga.
"I remember something about…discus…" Shun shrugged, "One of the classes I took back in our high school days…ancient legends…they talked about the ancient sports and the birth of the stuff we do today but then the world collapsed and all of that."
"This will be a great renaissance!" Rinosuke smiled as he rasied his shot glass, "To the future we hope to soon see!"
The four clanged their glasses together in cheers for the heroes' successful return.
East Sportsbrooke Suites
Room 708
Kiyoko Shimizu sat down on her futon while reading some line up suggestions by one of her new managers Hitoka Yachi. With the increase of new teams for volleyball, there was also a sign-up for managers as well. Only a few have signed up and she previously selected Hitoka, they began a collaboration to make a new poster as well as making a second team group for the White Doves.
Her mind raced back though to the day when she and the others were exiled from this town and when she had imprisoned Natsu after the famous sister refused to be a part of their dark plans. After the Magic Six raided their scrap town and reunited the two different sports cultures, her regretful actions made her become a bit distant in public (except when helping the team).
So much happened that time, she thought, we tried to preserve our sport but this evil…
She heard a knock on the door before getting up to go see Hitoka smiling and answering, "Hey I got a letter from Natsu about their journey!"
"Oh?" she asked.
"Here, take a look!" the blonde smiled, handing it over to Kiyoko.
My dear friends from Sportsbrooke…
Things have been such an experience both good and bad! There's this golden city called El Dorado where the place itself is made of gold (well a bit of an exaggeration but there are gold accents around!).
However, not everything is what appears to be as there has been some tensions between the water boys and the king of the realm. We are currently on a quest to protect our friends while they begin their search to find the ingredients that will hopefully break the darkness from our prince.
I also happened to stumble upon a group of girls who have been known for a unique skill called Kendo as well as archery for some. There's a lot of sports that we never knew they existed!
I can't wait to tell you all about them when we get home!
-Natsu
"Sounds like someone is having fun," Kiyoko muttered.
"What's the matter!?" asked Hitoka.
"It's nothing," she answered, "Now if you don't have anything else…I suggest you go finish the poster with your mom."
"B-but," Hitoka began but Kiyoko closed the door with a sigh.
Hitoka walked back outside just as she heard a soft violin playing in the background. It had a sad, lonely tune like watching an ocean from far away.
Such a pretty tune, yet sad, she thought, looking for the source.
The blonde walked around before reaching to a small park where she saw a girl with two pigtails playing her violin. Her outfit was that in a school uniform in a blazer with the black shirt and a sailor-like costume. Her mini-skirt was black as the shadows looming from her existence.
Nana Sakurai stopped to see her new arrival, "Didn't expect you to hear that."
"I…um…" Hitoka slightly blushed, "You play it very well."
"This violin was my mother's," Nana answered, "She used to play the violin when I was little. As a parkour challenge, she would head out to the mountains and I would use my skills to find her."
Hitoka gasped as she realized who this person was, "Y-you're the Princess of Stride?!"
"I used to be," Nana answered, "But that title of power has been passed to him…the next prince of stride. However, I fear that his reputation might not last longer if he's not careful."
"Why do you think he's in danger?" Hitoka questioned.
"…My mother when she played the violin, could also see the future of those around her; mostly those that are dear to her. When I play the same tune…it gives me some foresight of those I care about. In the vision, I saw him slain to death and I have no power to change his future," Nana said.
"But if he is the Prince of Stride…?" she began.
"Prince or Princess, that title is more of a curse," Nana explained, "The sport of Parkour is not easily learned or inherited. You fight against nature and if you tamper too much…you can get killed. This man has been working hard to achieve a record but doing so will danger his life."
"Then there has to be a way to stop it from happening!" Hitoka answered, "Who is this man?!"
In one of his training regimes, Takeru landed on the ground after making a serious jump and a kick turn from one of the walls.
A cool breeze swept in the valley as he took a few deep breaths before lying on the ground. It was as if lately, things were becoming more distant to him.
Riku arrived and gasped to see him down so terribly. He rushed over to get him on his feet, "Fuji-chan! Why must you push yourself like this! It's not like we're in the Olympics!"
"I'll be fine," he grunted as he got on his feet but his head began to spin.
"No, no, no!" gasped Riku as Takeru fell unconscious. In shock, Riku shouted for help to get the EMS to arrive. The blond took out his water canteen to pour on a rag for a cooling relief.
His older brother Tomoe along with Heath Hasekura, Ayumu Kadowaki, and Yuujirou Dan gasped at the sight.
"What the hell happened!?" Heath shouted out.
"Is the ambulance on the way!?" Ayumu cried.
"Yes! Someone already called for me, let's get him ready!" Riku answered.
Aqua Duniya: Week 2
Hayato sat down at the dinner table of the Mikoshiba family as they enjoyed a meal of rice, sushi, sukiyaki, and mixed vegetables from the markets. After praying for thanks, they began eating and laughing on various stories about the usual news.
However, he was feeling a bit left out as of late despite being in good hands. Hayato missed his brother and it was starting to catch on.
Hotaru noticed this and asked, "Something wrong Hayato?"
The younger brother got up from his seat before running to the couch on the other side of the family hall. Hotaru followed him along with Seijuurou.
"Hey, can you tell us what's the matter?" the sister asked.
"…o-onii-chan, he's gone…I can't do this!" he cried as he fell into her arms, crying.
"Kisumi is still alive…never forget that," Sei replied, "He will be back home soon."
"Mommy and daddy died a while ago and it's all because of me!" Hayato sniffed, "I wanted to go out with the family to learn about the fishing business and then the storm took their lives!"
Kenjiro (the father) walked in and held Hayato up, "We're here for you…until your brother returns. Remember he entrusted us to support for you."
Hayato calmed down a little as Kaori (the mother) smiled and gently brushed his hair, "We'll see if we can contact him. How about that?"
The little boy smiled with a nod.
Water Knights Training Facility – Room 101
Toru woke up as his alarm clock went off for his morning routine. He tried to get up when he realized that Shouta was still clinging onto him. The blonde chuckled and cuddled in, giving him a kiss on the lips.
The brunette woke up slowly as Toru said, "Wake up you sleepy face…it's our morning duty."
"Ugh…why can't we sleep longer…it was so much fun…" Shouta moaned in a yawn.
"I know," the blond answered as he looked at his semi-stiffed shaft poking on his underwear, "We had fun last night but it was too fast."
"Well sorry I wasn't ready," he grumbled.
"Hehe," Toru chuckled as they both got dressed up in their usual armor suit and grabbing their snacks for the go.
Room 202
Kazuki woke up with a gasp as he clutched his hand on his head from the strange vision of a nightmare. He recalled seeing a massive wave of darkness flooding over to some strange place before seeing a bright wave of light bringing the apocalypse.
Takuya was snoring loudly as usual and the lighter brunette couldn't go back to sleep. Despite not being on duty, he decided to get dressed and head out to see who was on patrol.
He did not notice that a cat was watching him nearby in silence. The very same cat that monitored Sergi and King Tatsuhisa last week. The brunette made his way out the door of his dorm, feeling the cool sea breeze sweeping in town.
Jangwa Meadows
Toru and Shouta patrolled the main route of the meadows as it was dawn of the new day. After reading the schedule of the other knights duties (including Ikuya and Asahi monitoring around the fortress walls), they also planned to return for the breakfast hour before going to one of the outposts.
A couple of pied crows and quails were already taking an early start as the owls were falling back to their tree trunk nest.
"It's always been the same," sighed Toru, "And yet its not."
"What are you talking about?" Shouta asked.
"I just feel that we are trapped here sometimes…it's like we were cursed," the blond answered.
"Cursed? Now you're speaking nonsense," the brunette shrugged.
"I guess I'm just a bit jealous that the others get to travel…I wish we could do it also…go see other worlds…meet new people. Hasn't that ever occurred to you?" Toru asked.
"Sometimes…but I know we have our duty to protect the kingdom and its people," Shouta replied.
A loud snap of a branch was heard. They both readied their spears and harpoons respectively when Kazuki showed himself.
"Aye Kazu, why you're up so early?" asked Shouta.
"I couldn't sleep…I had the strangest dream," the other brunette answered.
"A dream?" Toru questioned.
"It's so weird…I was walking in some weird place…like a big town or something and then a wave of darkness flooded in before everything exploded," he explained.
"It's just a dream," Shouta said, "So then are you gonna head back?"
"I got nothing else to do…besides Takuya is a loud snorer so I rather be away for now," Kazuki shrugged.
Back in the room, Takuya's sudden snore woke him up as he realized that Kazuki wasn't in the room. With a sigh, he checked the bathroom but he wasn't in there either.
We don't have any duties till this afternoon, he thought as he yawned. He wanted to go back to sleep but he saw a cat staring at him from the floor.
"Hey kitty…" he whistled softly, hoping to pick the creature up.
Suddenly, the cat's eyes glowed in lime green color before beams of light smacked into his forehead. Takuya fell backwards just as his sense of reality switched to a memory long forgotten…
He found himself floating in space with the cat as they saw a red-terrestrial planet.
I…I remember this place, Takuya's mind shouted out, this was our homeland! Planet Suizei!
At the Silver Castle, he saw a man like himself along with three others bowing to protect their prince. While he couldn't make out their faces, he sensed the familiarity of them…
Could they be, he thought.
The cat meowed as it presented him a small pen-like magical wand. It was a golden color with bits and pieces of peridot crystal at the tip.
Takuya found himself back in reality along with the Peridot Crystal Wand in his hands. The visions he saw were vague but what did this mean?
As the sun continued to rise, Hosoya made his way to where his wife was buried at by himself. He didn't want to bring the others here as the story was already a tragedy of its own.
He swapped out the old flowers for a new bouquet and said, "Thank you for what you've done earlier…Sousuke…his powers…the team…the talismans…they're doing fine now despite the new tribulations.
"But now it feels like you're really gone…and there's nothing left I can't…"
His voice trembled in painful tears, "I…I miss you. I wish you were here even for one last time…"
Chigusa and Gou visited Hayato after receiving a call from Hotaru last night. They brought a bunch of flowers, fresh bread, and a basket of fruit for the Mikoshiba's and for Hayato.
"These are so lovely," smiled Kaori, "You girls didn't had to."
"Please, don't worry about it," Chigusa smiled back, "Hayato is such a great boy and we wanted to cheer him up."
"I heard he's going to have his swim test soon," Gou added, "I wish him the best of luck."
Hotaru walked into the scene and said, "Hayato wants to deliver a message to Kisumi…"
"Oh?" Gou asked, "Well why don't he come with me to the Prayer Chamber. Maybe my father or King Magnus might be able to reach out."
"I'll go with you too," Chigusa added, "I don't want you to stay in there for days like you did last time."
The Nitori Household
Kouki stirred the cauldron pot while his wife Katsuko peeled some potatoes. It had always been such a small family for them but with the family dog named Bricky, it led to some comfort while their son was away.
After finding out that his son was also a senshi shocked them and gave the mother especially her fear of losing him.
"Honey, I know our son's doing fine but…do you think he'll EVER come home?" she asked.
"I think they will," he replied, "But after knowing what will happen to us if they succeed in their mission…"
"What mission? I thought after they saved that skeletal boy…" she began.
"Their mission is more than just beating the villains," Kouki answered, "They're going to change the world…"
Bricky barked a few times before whimpering in sadness. Katsuko threw down a piece of potato scrap for the dog to munch on.
The City of Sportsbrooke: Week 3 (Pre-return)
Sportsbrooke Diner (After Closed)
Two cloaked men sat down at a booth together to discuss about the recent events. They learned from their master that the newest Dark One will soon embrace its power and will eventually make a return to this city.
Despite their numerous failures in the past, their presence and their name will soon be feared by everyone…even the heroes.
"So pathetic…this city," the blond smirked while munching on his toast.
"It'll soon taste better when blood is shed," the silver-haired man smiled, "Then those pathetic little monkeys won't be a problem."
"You're that brave to go against the prince?" the blond asked.
"The prince will soon have no choice but to side with us…" he answered, "It's not a doubt he'll keep his powers at bay but consuming him and recycling him to our side will give us more power."
"It's like that time when we raided that other world…the prince of that planet failed to protect his people," the other man nodded.
"Then conquering this land will be no different. Soon, we will have all the powers of the universe in our hands…" the larger man said.
"Then let's be fulfilled with our conquest…to the Jabberwocks…to Chaos!" the blond smiled as they both gently sipped on their wine.
Sportsbrooke General Hospital
Takeru opened his eyes slowly just as he saw Nana, Heath, Ayumu, Riku, and another girl who seemed a bit terrified of the whole event.
"W-where…" he began.
"We got you to the hospital," Riku said, "You idiot! You scared all of us!"
The black haired turned to his IV attached to his arm before looking back to the others.
"Are you alright?" Nana asked.
"I need to speak to you alone," Takeru said, "For a moment."
With a shrug, the others left the room for a few minutes. Takeru stared at Nana and continued, "Long ago you said that I am the Prince of Stride…and that if I wasn't careful…I would meet my destruction."
"Yes…I did…and this is only the beginning of what is yet to come if you don't take care of yourself or those around you who mean to you," Nana replied.
"Why me? Why?" asked the young man.
"Because I was also doomed as Princess of Stride…you've seen the dangers of this sport…you know how you are facing against mother nature," Nana explained, "Before I met you and the others…I almost died."
"How did you survived?" Takeru questioned.
"My mother…had the violin and with the right tone of music…she could see the future. When you first met me at the house…I saw your future and I was scared to tell you of your fate," she revealed.
"Is there a way to change it?" He replied, "There has to be!"
"…There is one possibility," Nana answered, "I have heard whispers of a man…not the Dark One…but another man that might give us some pointers…"
"Who is he? Where can I find him?" Takeru asked.
"He's not from this land…but I do know that he has connections to one of our friends that are traveling right now," she replied, "When they get back…I promise to help you."
He gave a small smile, "Thank you…"
Underground Reservoir
Tetsurou Kuroo and Kotarou Bokuto climbed down a set of stairs to the underground water reservoir. They were tasked by the Iwasame senshi earlier to monitor the water levels in case they needed to repurify the source. Luckily, there has been only little change of the quality so it would only need minor details.
However, it wasn't far into the reservoir when they heard footsteps nearby. The two quickly hid in a small pocket room and watched three cloaked figures making their way across the site.
Kotarou's night vision of the owl allowed him to see where they were heading. On a silent signal, the two made their way over to see where the figures went.
The three figures unveiled their hoods to speak to each other.
"Is this where the main supply goes?" the first asked.
"Yeah," the second answered, "They said the source of their magic…or a part of it is here."
"Then what are we waiting for? Let's drain it!" the third smirked.
"It won't be enough to stop them," the first said, "No…what they want us to do is to make sure that we can pollute it with the drug. It will then contaminate all of the city's supply."
Could this be, thought Kotarou as he recalled about the drugs from Makoto.
This isn't good, thought Tetsurou, I wished we had help here as well…
"Who's there!?" one of them shouted. For a moment, they both thought the guys have seen them but it turned out that two other guys showed up.
"You are not going to pollute the drug yet," the leader spoke, "The heroes have not yet returned."
"Oh come on!" one of the servants moaned, "We've done this before on Suizei, Kazak, and the other planets across the universe! We've drained and stole the energy of all those pathetic soldiers and this is our destination!"
"Our orders from Chaos were to use the drug as soon as the signal is given," the leader replied, "Now let's get back to our master and prepare for the move."
The five vanished away into the shadows while Kotarou and Tetsurou returned to the surface. They had to report to this activity to the leaders as soon as possible.
"I just hope the others can get back soon…we might be facing a new crisis," Kotarou muttered.
The Government Office
Eikichi and Hayama monitored the recent events from the news as well as checking in with the police reports from Shun Izuki.
The last couple of weeks started off well but then of recent crime rates were happening around downtown and now this report from Tetsurou about cloaked figures planning something disastrous.
"What I don't understand is…if this new enemy has all the opportunity to strike…why didn't it?" asked Hayama.
"This new enemy is waiting for someone…or something to happen," Eikichi theorized, "I remember learning something like this back in my law and criminal studies…sometimes the perpetrator will stay hidden unless there's a way to smoke them out."
"So…?" began Hayama.
"What has to be done is that someone has to make a trick that we are onto these criminals…and when they hear that they are about to be caught…" Eikichi answered.
"Ahhh so it's like a trick…they'll want to stop the good guys but we can trap them," Hayama smiled.
"Now it's just a matter of how to get the word out there…and where to trap those villains into," Eikichi muttered.
Tetsuya 2 barked softly and looked out at the window to see the city skyline.
Aqua Duniya: Week 3 (Pre-return)
The oldest brother of the Mikoshiba family sat on his bed while staring at the mysterious, spherical crystal orb with the yin and yang symbols inside. He found it the other day on his bed after returning from his teaching. Sei tried to ask a local astrologer about this sacred object but had very little answers to give.
I better prepare Hayato his swimming test, he thought as he got up, heading to one of his many magazines on his desk that he had about working out and finesses test. With the right magazine for youngsters, he developed an idea for Hayato.
He suddenly sneezed as the papers were blown off of his desk. Seconds later, he heard a cat's meow from the windowsill. The fur was mutli-colored but in design of a tuxedo form.
"Hello there Ms. Kitty," he smiled, "I'm afraid I have a small allergy to cats…so please head back out."
"You never changed," the cat spoke, "Even after your rebirth I had hope you might be able to handle the felines."
Sei's eyes widened as he never seen a cat talk before let alone such a possibility.
"W-who are you?!" he answered.
"My identity does not matter for now. But I can explain to you about your gift…" the cat answered.
"Wait a sec, you know about this?" Sei asked as he showed the Yin-Yang orb.
"It belonged to a powerful prince from a planet far distant of here. But it has fallen into ruins thanks to Chaos…the people died…along with the prince. However, his four protectors have paid a price to relocate themselves to this world after finding out that the world did not fully obliviate as it was believed to be," the cat explained.
"And how does this story relate to what Momo and the others are going through?" Sei questioned.
"It's an indirect relationship…because like Prince Julius…Prince Yamato was also looking for peace and happiness for his planet and its civilians," the cat answered.
"Well I'd like to share sympathy but you see I am a swim coach and today is an important day for someone," the red-hair replied, heading out the door.
The red-hair made his way to the pool site as he saw Hayato sitting on the bench, waiting for his instructor. The little kid was not as afraid like he used to so he was ready to take this test. After all, he always looked up to these swimmers both here and out of town.
"You're ready Hayato?" Seijuurou asked.
The little boy nodded but then saw the cat approaching from the doorway.
"T-that cat?" the boy commented.
Sei turned to see the cat again before replying, "Just start off with a warm up of 50 meter backstroke."
Hayato made his way into the water while the red-haired readied the timer but the cat was still sitting there. Already it was bothering him and he worried that it would speak again.
"So this is what you've become…Prince Yamato?" the cat asked, "A swim instructor?"
"Since when did I get royalty in my blood?" he replied.
"Haven't you checked in lately with one of the Water Knights?" the cat answered, "One of them hasn't been doing his duties."
"I'll check in with Sasabe…" Sei shrugged, recalling when Takuya hasn't been showing up while the cat disappeared for a minute. Seconds after, he was blasted down and knocked into the pool.
"Forgive me…" Cali answered with a small meow, "But your story has been on hold for too long…"
Toru, Kazuki and Shouta were busy exercising at the gym when they all felt their hearts burning. They left the room and headed towards the apothecary when Takuya stood at the doorway.
"The Prince has begun to awake," Takuya said.
"P-prince!?" Toru asked.
"Who are you talking about?" Kazuki answered, "And where have you been in the last week?"
Takuya opened his fist to reveal three other transformation pens with respective crystals on them; a Rose, a Garnet, and Amethyst.
"These are our transformation pens…" Takuya explained, "None of you guys remember who you are but I finally begin to understand our past…take them."
With a hesitation, the others took their pens as they felt a wave of power sweeping in their veins. Their foreheads glowed with a crystal neon symbol.
The four found themselves standing in a memory flashback as they witnessed the destruction of a great village, burning in massive flames and shadow enveloping around before making its way to a big castle.
A man with red-hair looking like Seijuurou was confronting a monstrous villain while using his Suizei Unity Staff in a losing battle. Before their eyes, the prince collapsed before transforming into a small glass orb with symbols of the yin-yang.
The planet of Suizei then exploded as the yin-yang symbol floated into the unknown with four other crystals, heading to a familiar destination.
"T-That's us!?" gasped Toru.
"The same crystals that are in our pens…" Kazuki began.
"PRINCE!" they shouted, heading to the pool.
Hayato saw the waters turning violently so he quickly got out and watched as Seijuurou's body merged with the fluid before transforming. His swimsuit turned into a long-skirt in similar fashion of Alexa's while his top consisted of a vest and jewelry not native to the aqua realm.
His head donned a tiara made of ruby crystals with a green centerpiece. His arms donned a pair of cuffs with the swordfight design graphics across the band. The ankles had golden bracelets and his Suiei Necklace was in the shape of yin-yang.
Seijuurou landed on the ground just as the other guys rushed in to see their prince now awakened once more.
"Prince Yamato!" the four shouted as Sei's eyes opened to see his senshi.
"How long have we been slumber for?" the red-hair asked.
"As long as we could remember…our crystals kept us in hibernation and also prevented us from aging. Now that we've awakened…" Takuya began.
"The rumors…our experience with the Magic Six…they do exist!" Toru answered, "We must find them! Prince Julius can help us!"
"Julius has his own world to restore…unlike ours that we've lost to the Dark One," Yamato replied.
"But…" began Shouta.
"My powers are very strong but they are nowhere near to Julius' Solar Crystal," the prince answered, "But that doesn't mean we can't give it a try."
"So then what do we do? Should we leave now and find them?" asked Kazuki.
"No. Let us wait for their return…" Yamato said.
The five turned to see Hayato a bit freaked out by all of this. Yamato approached to him, "Have no fear…our stories will not end. I'll get you through today's test and perhaps I can reach out to your brother."
"Y-yeah!" the little boy smiled, "I'm glad you have magic now!"
Sergi woke up as his heart raced from seeing what was happening. He cried out for father as Magnus rushed into the room. He looked at his younger son's face with tears pouring down.
"Sandro…Makoto" he muttered sadly, "Th-they…"
Magnus hugged him and answered, "Yes…they have grown to the other side."
"I should've stopped this!" Sergi answered, "If only…I was there to help find a way!"
"Sergi, there was nothing you could do. This was his decision," Magnus said.
"No…I should've went with him…I just had a feeling he was going to do something so rash and now I'm here trapped as if I can't do anything!" he replied, "All because I got no magic!"
"Then it's time, you know the truth," Magnus answered, extending his hand out, "The truth of what lies ahead…and what your destiny may be."
"E-eh?" Sergi asked before he was taken to the secret side of the manor where the chambers below were filled with several books. He recalled the family library as one of his favorite past times but now…
"What is this?" the younger man questioned, "These books…"
"They're alive," Magnus said, "These books were part of the original library from another realm but waited to appear here when the time arrived.
"Your true name is Sergio just like what we called you at birth but you don't know why we changed your brother's name to Alexa," the king continued.
A couple of the books glowed to life as if they sensed someone.
"What's happening?" Sergi asked, "Why are the books acting like this? And what good does it have to do with me?"
"…pick a book and read, Magnus answered, "You'll find answers."
The young man grabbed a book and sat down before opening the pages. The images flared to life as if it was a movie in each page, showing the following:
The Magic Six turned to see the Six Airships floating side by side together, each holding their friends and family as they all stared at them and the bright light ahead. Their white cloaks gently breezed through the wind as they smiled happily.
"Everyone is waiting," said Rei.
"Waiting for us to meet again," replied Makoto.
"And now we can finally be together…" smiled Alex.
"All of these people…I can't even," began Nagisa as he spilled some tears along with Rei.
"This won't be the end for us," replied Rin as he hugged both of them, "Nor them."
"We may be done with our lives back then but our real journey has only begun," said Haruka.
"They're all waiting for us on the other side of life," added Alex, wiping his silent tears, "We'll get to reunite with them. Our parents…and many others."
They continued onwards with the airships, heading closer and closer to the light of the afterlife (Idaina Magna), chanting one last time…
"I swim," said Gen 1.0 Makoto.
"Free," said Gen 1.0 Haruka.
"For the team," smiled Gen 1.0 Rin.
"For my precious bonds!" agreed Gen 1.0 Nagisa.
"Together with every beauty," said Gen 1.0 Rei.
"Because it is OUR destiny," concluded Gen 1.0 Alex.
More pages flipped magically as Sergi's eyes were in shock of not just this scene but many others including:
*The formation of the "Magic Six" team both in relay and as magical heroes
*Their lives on a beautiful island city on an endless, greenery, tropical continent.
*The destruction of that reality as people fought one another
*The rebirth of the Magic Six on another world with each individual facing their own story.
*The land of Camelot where an endless universe of books tied all realities to their existence.
*The Dark One as Pandora attempting to destroy everything but only by the love of her mother and sisters saved her.
Sergi gasped as he saw a man that looked exactly like himself holding up a quill as if he was going to write a story. Finally, the truth struck him…and it was like slamming into a solid wall.
"I…I did this," he said, almost dropping the book.
"And because of your will, you have this safe in your hands," Magnus replied, pointing to the solar crystal floating above Sergi.
Sergi answered, "Of course…the moment he turned dark this crystal would be back in my hands for safe keeping! Now I get why and how it was made…"
He got up and grabbed another book which exactly matched the history of this universe; the destruction of Olympia Magna and Atlantis up to current events. It was as if the writing was taking on its own story but Sergi knew well that the book was already designed to preprogram what was about to happen.
"The worst is yet to come," he muttered, "But I have to wait…or else we will lose everything. What I don't understand is…was our entire lives…not genuine?"
"I am sorry to put you through all of this," Magnus replied, "But I guess of course we were just being used as materials."
"No…father! You're not!" Sergi answered, "As I might have been the one responsible for all of this…I'm glad…to have been with everyone I loved. Especially if it's a new family…"
"I'm sure your original parents are proud of you," Magnus answered, "I hope one day my wife and I get to meet your folks."
"You will," Sergi smiled, "I promise. But for now, I must learn the history of this universe. After that I must leave and find him before the Ultimate Dark One does…"
As soon as he read the entire stories of the book he written so far; most of the events were planned as foretold but a few of them have yet to happen…could it still be changed? Was he that powerful enough to change the story and to get them to remember their other identities?
I have to go, he thought, grabbing his cloak.
He arrived at the Prayer Temple as the cat was also waiting for him.
"Cali…" he smiled, "I never thought I'd recognize you…you came to me from the other side…right?"
She meowed in response as a voice was in his head, "Yes…you wrote the story but doing so made you forget what you've done. That was the price from the Mahotsukai and Witch Boy."
"But why did I write it though?" Sergi asked.
"Because you and the others were tasked to do one thing…to end the darkness once and for all…"
"End it all?" the boy questioned, "But doing so…no…is it the right thing to do?"
"That's what you and the others planned…but they have not yet awakened to that truth yet," Cali answered.
"Take me to my brother…I must tell him!" Sergi answered.
"I cannot directly take you there personally but…take this," the cat meowed as a Time-Space key appeared in his hands, "But use it wisely…for this key can be used once. However, the book will also get you to their destination. Only use the key in an emergency."
Sergi nodded as he opened the book and wrote down, "With the stroke of this pen…I am sent to Sportsbrooke."
Waves of magic from the book shimmered, grabbing the boy through a portal of light as his quest was finally beginning to unravel.
~Episode 10 END~
~Episode 11 PV~
Narrator: Watch out!
Akashi: You've turned Makoto…into a Dark One?
Dark!Alexa: It was the only way to save him…
Narrator: There's nothing more dangerous than a vengeful orca…and a team captain for thirst!
Dark!Makoto: After what you've done…I'll finish you! *clashes with the staff of dreams*
Theagenes: Get on with it! *clashes with his sword*
Dark!Makoto: *to Alexa softly* I want to hurt you…like you hurt me…
Nitori: Next Time, Free! Operation Julius Part 2: Broken Heart! We better find means to clean up this mess or else we're goners!