『Free! – Series Four – Cosmos World Chronicle』
フリー！– ザ第4シリーズ – メドレーの水泳戦士
Book 0: Road to the Curse
Book 1: The Curse of Hollywood Heights
Book 2: World of Sports
Book 3: Ever Blue Company
Book 4: Return of the Magic Six! (You are here)
Book 5: War of the Allegiant Twins
Movie Novel: TBA
Tagline: A NEW ERA BEGINS!
Synopsis: The defeat of the Witches sparks a new era of peace for the inhabitants of Terabithia and Duniya. Reunited once more, the fully assembled Swimming Guardians are drawn into new conflicts both near and afar. From an incubus in subconsciously of an ex-volleyball player to the mysterious Infinite Circus, and skaters being kidnapped without a trace! However, a bigger scheme is taking place that may put all of Duniya at risk for war again!
The Basics of their identities:
The Gen 3.0 Magic Six are the resurrected Magic Six from Dark Mirror (debuted in Gen 2.0 Free! Eternal Swim Chronicle: Before it Begins). They were an alternate Gen 1.0 Magic Six that collapsed during the War of the Shadow Mafia all due to a witch's ritual/sacrifice to alter their world. Despite being promised on a reunion of the team, they were separated from each other (a couple of rounds) but eventually on Delta!Earth (known as Terabithia), their memories returned, new allies joined, and a fierce battle against the witches took place!
To learn more about their resurrection and their full/complete personas-identities and the timeline of their multiple journeys, go to prologue of Book 3.5: Magic Six of the Resurrection!
There are now 3 Major Swimming Guardian Teams.
**Iwasame (Iwatobi & Samezuka) Senshi: Composes of the Magic Six 'Core Team', and the Samezuka Trio.
Haruka Nanase
Makoto Tachibana
Rin Matsuoka
Nagisa Hazuki
Rei Ryugazaki
Alex Marotta/Neo King Alexander
Sousuke Yamazaki
Momotarou Mikoshiba
Aiichirou Nitori
Kyle Meyrick/Neo King Odysseus (Honorary, briefly filled in as the Sixth Star during the Resurrection arc.)
**Takagami (Hidaka & Shimogami) Senshi: Composes the two teams of Hidaka and Shimogami based from Free!DF, Free!RW and Free!FS.
They are from the "Gen 1.0" verse except for Seijuurou (he is from DM!Verse)
Tsubasa Hoshikawa – Shimogami Leader
Seijuurou Mikoshiba – Hidaka Leader (DM Character)
Isana Kiryuu – Hidaka Senshi
Hikaru Unita – Hidaka Senshi
Shin Sagae – Shimogami Senshi
Kotarou Terashima – Shimogami Senshi
**High Speed! Senshi: Origin of each character varies but they make up this team with flexibility and as a strength in numbers for the other teams.
Nao Serizawa (Gen 1.0)
Natsuya Kirishima (Gen 1.0)
Hiyori Toono (Gen 1.0)
Ikuya Kirishima (Gen 1.0, dual membership with Iwasame)
Asahi Shiina (Gen 1.0, dual membership with Iwasame)
Aoba Usami (DM Character, Honorary, representative from Articora)
Other Senshi: not officially affiliated on a team but may be consider as Honorary members. List will be updated as needed.
Artemis LeFay (Suiei Cosmos)
STORY ARCS:
#1: Haikyuu, Oikawa the Last King Arc: Oikawa must face off against his Incubus self in order to be accepted back to the Volleyball Community as well as making "good deeds".
#2: SK8, "The Infinite Circus" Arc: The Swimming Guardians are pulled into a mysterious conflict of skaters disappearing and the rise of a circus event coming to Aeuropa City.
~Episode 0: Resurrection Complete!
Planet Duniya, Hours after the Siege of Iwamara…
By dusk, the Articorans camped out again outside of town while the Iwasame and Takagami senshi groups along with Nasuya, Nao, Hiyori, and Aoba at the complex. The Marotta family and the girls were arranged to stay at a hotel nearby. Kyle remained with Original!Alex and the senshi as they were in the process of setting up the next chapter of peace.
However, the volleyball gang left in order to sort out their own drama but promised to stop by again.
It had been a long, tedious day (or rather a series of long-term events) that was built by past events…from the deaths on the Old Earth, to the separation of the Magic Six…time warps to the past, present, and future and nearly losing all of reality to dust.
Once the events were all chronicled and recorded into the Iwatobi Suiei Gods: Reversi book, those from the other universe (of Gen 1.0) finally could see the full picture of the AU group.
"This is still…unfathomable," Seijuurou muttered before noting to himself that he needed to talk to Rei though perhaps both of them.
"But at least now we get the full picture," Tsubasa said.
"And some of these people knew it all," he replied.
Isana lowered his head as he recalled this very well from the late Neo King Julius.
Alex got up and added, "Yes…Neo King Julius knew about all of our stories…it is why he had to intervene with the plan of the witches by separating us again once that curse was broken. I could never suspect that my past, egoistic self to recognize them…probably for the best."
"Since we wouldn't be here otherwise," Nagisa said.
"There must have been some other people that knew about this…besides our enemies of course," Makoto rested his fist beneath his chin.
"Rasputin…I bet he knew," Rei muttered.
"Huh?" Rin looked at him.
"Rasputin…from Arizona…I wouldn't be surprised if he…" the megan began.
"Indeed, I was," the voice of him appeared as the former shrine priest walked in, "There was a small secret coven of us who made sure to keep the witches at bay. Neo King Julius and I were two of them along with a rogue, ex-member of them."
"Someone from that sick twisted covenant left?" Hikaru asked.
"He was reluctant to join them but realized he could obtain information used against them," Rasputin said, introducing Iago along with his wife and child.
"That scent…" Rei smelled of the cherry blossoms.
"Indeed, it was a protection spell given to your greatest ally, Tree-san…known as Camelot Jr," Iago said.
"And what does the three of you bring about?" Seijuurou asked.
"The very source to how your stories split off from the original timeline…" Emilia held Othello in her hands, "By taking our son as purest of heart…they thought they could change destiny…but I gave my own life to interfere with their original plan…"
"I see," Seijuurou narrowed his eyes, "It appears that all of you were coaxed into something and became the catalyst to all of the pain that subsequently followed. However, there are still conversations and mysteries to solve. In the meantime…"
"We will start anew," Nao got up, "And begin again. None of us needs to keep dwelling of the painful past that put us on trial after trial."
"None of this is your fault," Alex said, "Verrado…put a lot of number on all of us and to you."
"There's no need to pity for us anymore," Iago replied, "We Mahotsukai have greater magic, but this world belongs to you. Use it well."
Once the trio left, Rasputin sat down as the senshi split off to their own teams to discuss about their next plans. Seijuurou went over to Rasputin for some other conversation.
"How are you feeling?" he asked.
"Tired, but recovered quite well…the Pegasus has brought to my attention and led me to rescue the team and leading them here," Rasputin replied, "But I take it you still want answers."
"…I do. But it's not from you," Seijuurou answered, "I need to speak to someone…or two."
"I cannot tell you what to do but, I am sure he's feeling just as painful still. If it were me, I'd probably slowly talk it in…I've seen his development when he and the others were on Terabithia," Rasputin said.
"I just simply want to know what he was thinking…and…at least come to terms about how our teams will grow from here," the red-haired replied.
"As a team leader, you know what you have to do," Rasputin smiled before making his exit, "I'll be at a hotel room for another week or two before I leave for Aeuropa City."
"You're going back there?" Sei asked.
"An investigation…that I must solve," he replied before disappearing.
"Honey, is something wrong?" Tsubasa approached with Toto.
"Uh, I'm fine…I guess…Rasputin…just left rather quickly," Sei shrugged.
Natsuya and Nao led the Magic Six to their rooms for now as they revealed that a new construction will be built for them as their future suite. In the meantime, they agreed to share the space.
"I guess all six of us will share here," Rei shrugged.
"These bunk beds don't look that horrible," Nagisa said.
"It's at least compact and makes somewhat roomy here," Makoto agreed.
Alex rested his fist over his heart, asking himself if it was the power of his crystal…or was it something emotional bothering him.
"Something wrong?" Haruka asked.
"…I think for the time being, I need to be away," he said.
"E-eh?" Rin and Nagisa looked at him.
"Alex-chan…" Makoto's voice was concerned.
The last star turned to the five, "I know how much our team deserved this reunion but…I am a father. Married, adopted three other girls and my own blood daughter has a fiancée…t-there's just too much going on for me. My family is here too…t-this is overwhelming."
"Alex, we won't force you to stay with us for tonight," Rei said, "But…I know I've left a horrible burn between us."
"And you never gave up fixing it…" Alex replied, "You contributed to help us get together again. I cannot thank you enough."
"You are our king that we swore to protect," Nagisa answered, "All of us and the Mizu Gods too."
"I'll be back to you all after I get some time spent with the family…now that they've seen us…gotta explain some stuff," he shrugged, "There's a lot of planning to do…things to figure out."
"Then go," Rin said, "We'll wait for your return."
"But don't forget that we are willing to help you along the way," Haruka concluded.
"Thank you, I will return to you all. Just please…be patient with me," Alex replied.
He made his way back to the hotel with Kyle as the latter was a bit surprised to see him. For a moment, he thought he'd joined the team again in a heartbeat but…
"Are you sure about this?" Kyle asked.
"I don't want to make this awkward between us," he said, "I married you…Odysseus. Much of my story with them came to a halt…I don't know if I can resume with them. I know they need me but…"
"Plus est un vous"
Alex heard that voice of Neo King Julius in his head…he recalled those magical words when the king helped Kenma to recover his senses.
"Honey?" Kyle looked at him.
"Those words…I heard them…from the king…'Plus est un vous'…" Alex muttered as his husband made a small smile.
"Yes, and those words helped Kenma to find his way back," Kyle recalled.
"You're right…I feel that too," Alex smiled a little, "I am overwhelmed by all these destinies and crossroads. For now, I want to spend us time together with our family…but I do want to transition to my fellow senshi.
"I guess what worries me is that I don't want to separate you or the girls. They need to get back to Earth and start their adulthood…"
"Sandro," Kyle held his hands to his partner, "You've done your best to help them. Sure, there were rough times in between but that did not tear us apart. Going back to them will not be the end of our relationship. I trust you."
"How will you get back to me then…if something arises?" Alex asked.
"The power of my Ithaca Crystal will guide me in case of an emergency," Kyle rested his fist to his heart, "I feel its warmth at work. All that power you unleashed earlier today, I know you have overcome your demons and will continue to make the right decisions."
The two returned to the hotel and rested up with their families. Anastasia and the girls were surprisingly in bed early too while Sergi summoned the book back in his hands after the work on putting the pages together were done. Rosie was also asleep likewise.
The Next Day...
Everyone began the next chapter of their stories...formulating swim teams, preparing new suites for construction. The STYLE FIVE looked among themselves, hoping that Alex will be okay. While they are aware of the Articora!Rei and Articora!Alex among their population, it wasn't the same as in being with the original man.
"Hope he's doing okay with his family..." Makoto muttered while looking at the window.
"He will be, Mako-chan," Nagisa felt determined.
Natsuya and Nao walked in as the former began, "We got the construction workers here, has everything been moved out?"
"All the things have been packed and moved," Haruka replied as Rin nodded.
"Looks like it's going to be busy days ahead of us," Nao smiled.
"And loud...I can already hear the construction noise," Nagisa rolled his eyes.
"That aside, thank you again for allowing us to stay with you," Rei bowed.
"All of us have prepared for your return but of course with the time displacement, we couldn't predict perfectly when you'd be here relative to the expansion of the facility," Natsuya explained.
"Who knows. Construction may be ready faster than we expect," Nao interpreted, "Don't worry about a thing. We'll have you all properly accommodated."
The silver-lavender haired man looks around; finally noticing, "Still no sign of Alex?"
"He's left to be with the family. Still on this world, but...probably conflicted," Rin replied.
"I see," Nao rested his fist beneath the chin.
Artemis walks in with Ikuya and Asahi as the former added, "Have no fear, he will make his decision."
They all turned to see the silver-long haired man as none of them really recognized this person except…
"Wait a sec…are you?" Rin narrowed his eyes.
"Yes, Suiei Oceania's civilian form…I am Artemis Le Fay," he replied, "Your reputation proceeds you...Magic Six. Especially to your king."
"Oh yeah! You were the guy who did all the magic stuff with Alex!" Nagisa's eyes sparkled a bit as he recalled that big blast of light against Verrado and the witches.
"The 'magic stuff'...? Seriously, Nagisa?" Rei sighed.
"What would you call it?" the blond makes a fish face.
"Saving Existence..." Rei corrected him.
Artemis continues, while resting his hand over his heart, "My future self, as Suiei Cosmos waits for the day I truly become a full-fledged master of the realms. It's all thanks to...you, fifth spirit."
He looks at Rei with a smile, "You and him...that bridge must continue to sustain."
So this person, is really…the one side of the bridge, Rei thought, Cosmos…the one?
"We'll discuss more of that later. Please follow us," Ikuya beckons the five.
"Right this way, fellas. We have so much to do and so little time," Asahi whistled.
"Don't you mean…?" Rei looked confused.
"I know what I said," Asahi grinned.
You never changed silly monkey, Ikuya thought.
Natsuya and Nao watched them leave as they turned to each other with some slight concern.
"After hearing about all their journeys, it will be a long road for them to recover," Natsuya said.
"One day at a time, one step," Nao noted, "I think they will pull it through. They made it this far. Now then, let's get the workers here so they can begin."
Suiei Temple
After a personal breakfast and a video call to his father, Dodecadron, Rasputin returned to the temple alone for some meditation, listening to the sounds of nature and the psyche within him. Since his arrival to this planet years ago, he had witnessed so many changes to the planet in due time.
It was refreshing to be back here…especially with other unfinished businesses he remembered back in the early 5000s and the dark teachings from his mother. At one of the lessons he learned, he and his Chivashi explored the planet's geography and residents hidden from the scenes.
At one such trip, he visited Aeuropa City during its early stages of massive development as the government passed a bill to allow massive walls being built. He made fake names and IDs to get through places, wore fabulous disguises made from the dark magic.
Heh, such a sad irony for these humans, he thought, they don't live long enough to know what will harm them.
Flashback: Year 5053
9 Months before Lha'li's destruction
Aeuropa City
At some abandoned warehouse
BLING-BLING-BEEP-BEEP-BEEP
Rasputin clicks off the alarm clock, getting up with a yawn. He was dressed in a two-piece pajama set of black and red. He walked over to the bathroom to clean his fangs and massaging his scalp before heading to the main loft/studio area of the makeshift apartment/warehouse.
After locating this place as abandoned from town development, they made use of this makeshift home via dark magic. By playing as thieves, they stole various goods of the humans in order to bled themselves in with this 'population'.
The five Chivashi were scattered around in their own morning routine. Haruto and Mariko were watching the TV while Rikuto was busy doing pull-ups on the bar. Reiji and Natsuhisa ate some cereal bowls despite the displeasure of eating such processed food.
"Mornin' boys," Rasputin greeted them.
"Good morrow to thee master," Reiji stretched out the cartilage of his neck.
Haruto grumbled a good morning response while Mariko makes a dark chuckle. Natsuhisa makes a sickening smile with his own salutations as Rikuto wiped the sweat off his shoulders.
"Another package arrived," Rikuto presented the box over.
"Ah yes, mother must have sent something again…more disguises I wonder?" Rasputin takes a box cutter before opening it, "Ah-ha, she did."
"Ugh, just why are we living among these pathetic humans?" Haruto asked.
"We already went over this," Mariko rolled his eyes while Rikuto sighed.
"Here we go again..." Natsuhisa grumbled.
"Yeah, I know we should be preparing for a conflict with my dearest...brother," Rasputin barely says the name, "But in the meantime, that doesn't mean we can't be adaptable, no? After all, I never thought some strange society like this has its own perks."
"You still want to go through with that?" Mariko asked.
"Mother may have taught us enough about these humans...but I am still piqued by something about them..." Rasputin answered.
"Such ephemeral existences aren't worth the aggravation," Reiji sips his cup of coffee.
"If it's what he wants, let's get it over with. He's the one calling the shots," Natsuhisa replied.
"If we must..." Reiji sighed while pushing up his glasses.
"We got plenty of time for carnage...in fact so much time more than we could ever ask. But going into a blood lust at once would be a waste. No. There's still something I want from these wretches," Rasputin continued.
"And that would be...?" Haruto asked.
"Well, we've been running around as thieves and making this our "home" for the time being. What if we could make this a base of operations? Maybe start our own label? After all...humans are gullible and easily pushed over," Rasputin answered.
"You can't be serious..." Reiji rolled his eyes.
"I mean...mother doesn't care what we do in the meantime. She only wants him killed. But he hasn't been spotted anywhere..." Mariko added his two cents.
"For such flexibility..." Rikuto smirked.
"Exactly. How about...we go check out that newly constructed casino? I've heard they are making a musical hall. I always have this dream of being a singer…perhaps as a means to get these humans to fall into our grasp?" Rasputin suggested.
"Hee-hee, let's do so. See the wonders and splendors of human vanity," Natsuhisa chuckled.
"Every good talent examines their venue before undergoing their performance. Why not scout it out?" Reiji shrugged.
Rasputin changed up to his suit attire as the others also grabbed their disguised clothing of varying fashions.
She comes in colours everywhere
She combs her hair
She's like a rainbow
Coming, colours in the air
Everywhere
She comes in colours
From there, they departed from their hideout, heading out to the streets to catch a bus. Rasputin recalled one of the lessons from Pandora about a double-stacker bus that originated in this foreign town called London.
After handing the payments, the six enter in towards the vacant seats in the back. A few other passengers were boarding on and off…
She comes in colours everywhere
She combs her hair
She's like a rainbow
Coming, colours in the air
Oh, everywhere
She comes in colours
Rasputin sits down with Haruto and Mariko while Rikuto stands on guard while mentally plotting with Reiji and Natsuhisa on which people to pickpocket.
The bus drove through a few communities, both of posh and trash and unloading and loading more passengers. At one point it was almost emptied out when another stop was abruptly made as they saw three middle-aged ladies walking onto the bus.
One was purple-haired with blood-red lipstick like her sister with dusty-brown hair. The third one had a gray-blue dual toned with pink lipstick. They each wore black, funeral like outfits.
"I cannot believe we are doing on this wasted public transportation," Saki grunted.
"Now Saki, you know why we agreed to do this," Shoko reminded her.
Saki turns to her with narrowed eyes, "Good grief, this is a risk to us Shindo's."
"It's not like we're doing this every day. It doesn't hurt to get…" Rie shudders while making a fake smile, "In such acquainted with the locals."
Upon heading towards the back where the Chivashi were, they looked at each other as Saki said, "We go up on deck."
"Fine," Shoko shrugged.
"Let's," Rie agreed.
"Good morrow to thee ladies," Natsuhisa muttered in a hint of sarcasm as the trio walked up the stairs.
Have you seen her dressed in blue?
See the sky in front of you
And her face is like a sail
Speck of white, so fair and pale
Have you seen a lady fairer?
"What the hell are their problems?" Haruto watched them sternly.
"Their fancy vehicles probably broke down," Reiji shrugged.
Mariko took a sniff of the aura from the trio as his eyes briefly flickered, "They…don't smell human."
"Hm, I was thinking the same thing," Rasputin narrowed his eyes, "They seemed…off to be humans in the first place."
"Heh, what kind of secrets we have here?" Natsuhisa's curiosity piqued.
"Like it even matters?" Rikuto sighed and crossed his arms.
"Let's just focus on our destination," Rasputin redirected their attention.
Once the bus finally arrived at the nearly completed Aeuropa Casino, there was some tours of the place, public presentations, and other conferences taking place. Rasputin and Chivashi did notice at a last second glance the three ladies sneaking in from a different way but kept their composure.
They are up to something, Rasputin narrowed his eyes.
The casino stood high and grand with all sorts of styles of adobe, rustic, and modern mixed into some blend of bizarre cultures. There were a series of fountains and lights making it such a paradise for the humans.
"Looks dreadful..." Reiji rolled his eyes.
"It's a lot bigger than I thought," Mariko tilted his head.
"Not now, gents. Keep up the persona," Rasputin puts on a fake smile.
"It looks grand," Rikuto shrugged.
"Oh yes! Very graaaaand," Natsuhisa feigned this excitement.
"We split up," Rasputin instructed them, "I need three of you to find those ladies. I got a bad feeling about this. If they are not humans, we need to make sure they do not get in the way of our cause."
"Too much effort," Haruto crossed his arms.
"I'll go whoever wants to go," Mariko offered.
"I'll go as well," Natsuhisa added.
Reiji looks at Rikuto, "Which shall it be?"
"You got the brains. I'd smash shit down," Rikuto answered back.
"I was afraid you'd say that..." Reiji sighed.
Reiji, Natsuhisa and Mariko followed the ladies from a safe distance, making sure they weren't missing on whatever it is they were planning. Rasputin went with Haruto and Rikuto to get a better view of the building, architecture, and security while sending mental notes to Reiji.
Upon taking a series of a labyrinth of halls and doors, the three Chivashi found themselves in a smaller, narrowed hallway leading to an office in front. Thankfully, they used their abilities to blend into the darkness around them as Saki knocked on the door.
"Brother? You there?" Saki asked.
"It's us...your lovely family!" Shoko called out.
"Come out, come out, wherever you are…" Rie teased.
The door opens as Aiichirou Shindo appears in some low-light setting in a dark tuxedo with accented blue features, "Well, isn't it my lovely three sisters…I take it you're not here for a grand tour?"
"Oh, the tour can wait dear brother," Saki chuckles.
"Indeed, this building isn't going anywhere. Not with such a firm establishment and the best investors," Shoko replied.
"Shall we get down to business then, or do you have something else in mind?" Rie asked.
"We can straight to business. But to answer that important question...no...the body has not been reconstructed successfully," Aiichirou answered.
"Pity," sighed Saki.
Annoyed, Shoko added, "What do those monsters think they can offer? You do realize this...entity is perhaps greater than even the likes of us."
Monsters, thought Mariko.
"We'll just have to show them a little more...'tough love' if we want results. After all, it's worked every other time," Rie replied.
"I'll see to it's done without failure," Aiichirou answered.
"Good. However, even after they accomplish our favor...I still want them wiped out," Saki said.
"That is rather putting a risk on the humans though?" Shoko asked.
"Oh, we'll live long enough to make sure there's more humans than those...disgusting pigs," Saki grunted in response.
"Do you ladies want to see the current progress?" Aiichirou asked.
"By all means," Rie makes a haughty chuckle.
Shoko clasps her hands, "Oh we'd love to...our dearest."
They walk into the office as the door closes. The three Chivashi landed back on the floor and looked at each other in some concern.
"This isn't good...if they're not humans...what sort of business do they have? What did they mean by disgusting pigs?" Mariko asked.
"It'd be too risky to go in ahead without preparation," Reiji analyzed.
"Not like any of us were thinking about that," Natsuhisa answered.
"We should relay this info to Rasputin and hurry back before they come out of there," Mariko agreed.
The trio make their way back to the public spaces as Rasputin, Haruto and Rikuto regrouped. The latter three were in rather a bit of shock and disturb looked on their faces.
"What happened? Are you three okay?" asked Mariko.
"Sir? Is something wrong?" Reiji added.
Rasputin reveals his grip with a crumpled piece of paper and said, "We need to get back now before they find us. Let's go! We'll explain everything there!"
Present Day: Iwamara Town Square
Next Day…
Outside in one of the town square areas of Iwamara, the Samezuka Trio along with Aoba, Seijuurou and Tsubasa were in talks as well, discussing new plans and team arrangements. Now that their numbers have increased since the battle against the witches, it was clear that a lot of changes were being made to accommodate.
Sousuke's phone buzzed a moment. He took it out to read the message from Rin.
"Sousuke-senpai?" Momo asked.
"Seems like Rin and the others haven't heard back from Alex yet. Maybe still with the family?" he shrugged.
"Hope he's doing okay," Nitori replied.
"I'm sure he will be," Seijuurou answered.
"Just so I am clear, were there…two of them…or was I seeing double vision?" Tsubasa asked.
"Yeah, there were 2 Alex's and 2 Rei's," Momo said as Seijuurou kept his silence for a moment.
"You doing okay red shark?" the blue-haired man noticed his boyfriend.
"Oh, um yeah, just a lot on my mind," he said.
"You know you can always talk to us if you need anything, Captain - er, Seijuuro-senpai!" Nitori answered.
"Heh, who do you think I am?" Sei slightly grinned as he looked at his phone to wait upon a certain message.
Aoba turned his head to smell something delicious nearby. He was about to take off when both Nitori and Momo followed him (to make sure he doesn't wander too much around). After learning that he too was a senshi, there was a lot to teach him in order to fully develop his powers.
"I'm going to head back and check on Rin and the others," Sousuke said.
Once it was just the two of them, Tsubasa briefly pecked a kiss on the cheek, "I know you got stuff to do. Just…don't push yourself."
"I won't," he replied, "It's just something I need to settle."
With that said, Seijuurou receives the text from Rei that the appointed time was ready. They both finally met up by the shoreline of the beach. The megane was indeed beyond nervous but with words from Nagisa and the others...it was time...however, there was one thing that was kinda unexpected...
The red-haired tilted his head, "Uhhh, where's the other one?"
"Other one?" Rei looked confused.
"I was under the impression the other you was going to be present, too," he answered.
"Oh," the megane blushed slightly, "I can call for him."
After ringing the bell, the Articora!Rei appeared upon a soft breeze of the wind and cherry blossoms. At first, seeing the red-haired frightened him but his original self was there likewise.
"…I guess this is it," Articora!Rei said.
"Heh, you don't say," Sei grunted.
The two Rei's sat down on the sands with the red-haired captain as the twin added, "I assume we keep this between us?"
"Yes. I'd like to keep it that way, too. No Samezuka. No Iwatobi. No whatever back-up you have. Just us three. No one else," Sei answered before taking a small breath and continuing, "Now…I could ask you why you felt the need to betray the team, but I think we know the answer to that already."
"Not something I'm proud of, nor was it anything I could really control," Original!Rei said.
"If that's the case, when did you start having feelings for Alex? Would've thought Rin and/or Haru were a better match for you," Sei continued.
"I could ask why you felt the way you did about Gou and when that started..." Original!Rei shook his head.
"Touché," Sei rolled his eyes.
"Stop, both of you. I know the answer," Articora!Rei intervene before any tension could explode, "I remember it was when Alex first stayed at my place. The first night he stayed in Iwatobi...I felt his heart was darken...filled with conflict."
They turned to him as the fifth spirit continued, "Little did I realize I would share a similar fate as his...also conflicted...but he was stronger than I ever was."
Sei frowned a bit, "You two were a lot alike, therefore you thought if the two of you were together it'd heal you? Is that the gist of it?"
"If we had to put it that way, yes," Original!Rei answered.
"After Haruka-senpai took the initial bond...I...I felt like...I couldn't control myself. As if I just jumped into the void," Articora!Rei said, "My existence...inside of the original half grew stronger and stronger uncontrollably...and before anyone could suspect..."
His hand trembles but Original!Rei grasp it for his twin to calm down.
"It was no excuse for the pain that I inflicted upon all of you. Perhaps I should've been a demon for eternity...banished…" Articora!Rei sighed.
"Speaking of which, from what I was told, there were others were didn't think that was the case. Another set of 'you's'," Sei replied, "A variation of the Magic Six that traversed the multiverse and came upon our reality. They could have eliminated you, yet they let you live."
"I never let their gift go to waste," Original!Rei recalled that day when he hugged Alexa and crying much that day.
The sea continued to drift across the shoreline as a few birds landed with their feet in the water to bathe their feathers. A turtle was also resting nearby in its shell.
"The sea has always been calming for all of us…" Sei muttered, "Even myself…surprisingly."
"I remember jogging with them…" Original!Rei recalled the days in Iwatobi with Makoto, Haruka, and Nagisa, "This team…how much I truly missed them."
"You intend to continue swimming?" Seijuurou asked.
"…yes, I need to…for my dream," Original!Rei said.
Well, at least that part didn't change, Sei thought.
Articora!Rei grabbed a nearby tree stick and began to draw a diagram of some sort in the sands. He created the four symbols and the star of Articora with his Kanji in the center followed by a bridge-like pattern with two ends.
"Thanks to the events that took place on that other world...this power was able to make a new home...and give everyone a second chance," Articora!Rei explained.
"Momo and the author guy gave me bits and pieces of what happened. To be honest, I truly thought you were beyond retribution after what transpired back home. Somehow, someway, you overcame the darkness and look at you now." Sei replied, "Both of you…heh, it's weird to say that."
Original!Rei slightly smiled even though deep in his heart…that piece was still missing as he was soon about to tell Sei about the price he paid for.
"This is the bridge of Chaos and Cosmos...centered in Taiao...a pocket dimension of the North Pole which goes by its real name as Polaris," Articora!Rei revealed, "When the two of us used the power of the Chaomos Crystal, the original me...paid a huge price...and so did I."
"…I give up my love for Alex," Original!Rei said, "In order to keep moving forward to save everyone."
W-what in the name of, Sei thought, keeping the initial shock to himself.
"And I chose to stay behind in Articora where I am among four other spirits and protectors. Together we maintain the powers of light and shadow," Articora!Rei explained, "Only I am here because of extreme conditions but soon the time to return home is upon us."
"Hmmm, this Articora...must've been quite the trip," Sei nodded.
"What a strange one that is. However, it was enlightening for many things," Original!Rei added.
"Our mother was born there...she immigrated to Japan out of curiosity of the world. Plus, she thought she could perhaps...find someone to build peace," Articora!Rei continued.
"This bell I wield, it was once hers," the original megane said, "While it was no picnic there, I can attest Articora was never boring. Each land having its own element of sorts. Giant beings also patrol the lands to keep the peace. You may have seen some of the people during our last battle."
"It was hard keeping tabs to see who was here when we fought against those witches," the red-haired captain replied when something flashed into his mind during the fight, "T-that vision…was that really Alex as a baby?"
"…Sadly yes," Articora!Rei revealed, "At one point during my stay, I dove into the past memories of the planet and discovered that Alex was indeed cursed by the witch…ensuring that I…or we take his life so he would never reclaim the power."
"But even still…it felt so horrible and horrific that we would betray the team like this," Original!Rei added, "Little did we realize that they were the ones manipulating both the Gods, ourselves, and the Shadow Mafia."
"I do vaguely recall their presence there at that time. Before I was whisked away to the other world," Sei commented.
"They are from another land, one with greater powers than ours. However, even with my great power alone wasn't enough...as I am only a "bridge" and not an "entity". The only way these monsters could be defeated..." Articora!Rei points to the symbols of Chaos and Cosmos.
"Wow, so no wonder they were freaking out when Alex and that other kid merged together…that entity…was that…?" Sei asked.
"That was Suiei Cosmos, the future, and ultimate Suiei Senshi to Artemis," Articora!Rei said, "While we never really met this kid till now, I have learned of Chaos and Cosmos' existence long before our time."
"Artemis was an interesting fellow…he joined us to Olympia Magna on some of the quests we partook," Sei answered.
"I would like to extend the invitation to you and the family to visit the new Earth...and perhaps Articora too someday," Articora!Rei commented.
"I would love to see this new world. But not now...Not until I'm for sure ready to go," the red-haired answered, "Yet at the same time…I don't know if I'll ever truly be ready until I can fully forgive what was done."
"Even after all this time...?" Original!Rei's heart sank.
"Now that the truth has been told, it's time I give you my thoughts about all of this," the red-haired got on his feet. The two Rei's followed suit as they both feared for the worst.
After clearing his throat, Seijuurou expressed his thoughts, "In those years, you've thrown everything out of balance. You could have had us killed likewise when you had us captured, but you chose to let us live. Rin, included. I'll never understand why, other than you were trying to break us as destiny had broken you by those witches. Regardless, a lot of years of my life was taken away and I can't even look at Gou in the eyes anymore after what went down."
"However. However, in exchange for these losses, there were other things to help me recover who I was…Tsubasa…founding the Takagami senshi, even reuniting with Momo and Isuzu. While I do still have feelings for Gou, I know there has been another like me who had his happy ending with her.
"It may sound weird, but...I think I'm more at peace on the road I'm on now."
"More importantly, this road has helped me find out what I truly want to do. What my dream truly is," he paused for a moment as the two Rei's were lightened up by this power of hopes and dreams.
"I want to keep swimming to my heart's content to race in relays, train with the best and be among them, creating a larger team and reach for the stars like the Olympics."
"That's... pretty ambitious," Original!Rei softly gasped.
"I see it in your future," Articora!Rei winks at that possibility, "As for my dream..."
The two watched as the twin conjured a small, black jewelry box before revealing to be…
"T-that's!?" Sei and Original!Rei gasped.
"When he forgave himself and offered his twin that second chance…I figured it's the only way to finally make history with him…" Articora!Rei smiled.
Original!Rei spilled a happy tear, "I never thought I'd live to see this day."
Sei sighed with a little smile, "Guess it all comes to full circle now, huh? No need to keep holding grudges. You…and him deserve my blessing. Go end that dark story with a lighter note!"
Articora Makeshift Camp area
Articora!Alex sat down on a seated stone as Romio, Shizuru were eagerly waiting for the food being served from the pot. After spending some time with his original self and the family, he realized that he too was his own being and wasn't sure where to start. It wasn't until his original half informed him about Articora and its inhabitants along with Articora!Rei.
"Maybe I should go find him…" Articora!Alex said.
"Find the others first, they'll tell you where he may have gone to," Original!Alex answered.
"Something on your mind kid?" Romio asked.
"Huh?" the young adult looked up as he brushed his hand through the cloak, "Not really…but…reminds me of camping out when I was younger."
"We adapted here and have our own experience back home," Shizuru said, "It's nothing new."
"All that processed junk back in the city is nothing in comparison to the all-natural goodies we use," Romio grinned.
"Yeah," Alex said before sighing, "I just…I just wish I could find a fresh start. I honestly don't know what to do anymore."
JINGLE-JINGLE
JINGLE-JINGLE
Everyone paused to hear that noise of the bell as Alex got up, "I-is he nearby?!"
"Aren't you going to eat with us?" Ayumu asked as she stirred the pot, "Food is almost ready."
"I'll be back…I need to find him," he replied as he took off, heading back towards the beach area when he stopped to see a sudden field of flowers all around.
"I-I don't remember seeing all of this?!" he gasped, "I-isn't this supposed to be a beach?"
His nose sniffed the wonderful scent of roses and hyacinths all around. With this, he went into the field to look around in awe as it felt so relaxing and therapeutic. Alex picked up one red rose and one blue hyacinth to smell them.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" a voice asked.
Alex turned to see Rei and asked, "Y-you did this?"
"And if I did?" he replied.
"T-they smell lovely," Alex said, "Like something…I felt in a dream once."
"In the language of flowers, a rose can mean many things depending on its coloration," Rei explained, "A dark crimson one is mourning. Pink is happiness. Yellow is jealousy. White is innocence or being worthy of someone. Red, the common one, is love.
"But a hyacinth is different. Purple ones usually are for asking forgiveness. And these white ones…"
The megane plucked them up to give him a small bunch of white hyacinths and added, "Can be used to express love, too."
Alex looked at the flowers and commented, "Rei…these are really beautiful…almost as if…"
His eyes suddenly darted to see something gold flickering at the stems of the plants that held them together. It had a set of precious stones around its band. Before he could reply, Rei got down to his one knee…
"From the moment we met in Iwatobi, I always felt there was a strong connection between us. I never thought I'd know what love was until I walked the arduous road to get everything back…
"You were always in my heart, and I knew I'd go through hell and back for you each and every time."
Alex's eyes began to moisten as Rei finally proposes, "Sandro, you are the most special person in my life. I will take care of you for as long as I live."
Without another moment to hesitate, Alex pulls the ring out from the flowers and puts it on with sheer joy, "Then…let this be the end of the great evil for all of us!"
Rei got back up as Alex leaped onto him, both falling into the bed of hyacinths as a brief kiss was exchanged in tears of joy.
"R-Rei…we made it...from the moment I first reunited with you. I didn't think it would be this soon...but better to get it established while there's still peace…thank you," he answered with happy tears.
"And thank you…for believing in me," Rei said as he brushed his hand through his fiancé's hair with both their eyes flooded with euphoria.
The Articorans walked out from the woods with happiness in their hearts to see this moment of history taking place. It was indeed…a happy beginning…
Next Day
The Marotta family gathered at a nearby beach park area away from the sands and society. A little picnic was made with food created by both Original!Alex, Sergi, and the mother with some help from the girls. Deciding to invite his other half, Articora!Alex attended to the event.
They sat down to say a brief prayer of grace before enjoying themselves. Articora!Alex got up on his seat to look at everyone.
"S-Sandro?" the father looked at the twin.
"Everyone…" Articora!Alex began, "I am here to make an apology and a toast. My actions for what I have done are inexcusable…I don't deserve this. However, all of you never gave up on me…and to my other half. I never thought I'd live with a heart beginning to heal…and so…"
Anastasia answered, "You are still my father…"
The twin looked at her and gasped softly, "I-I am…?"
She smiled, "Both you and the original forgave each other…and wished to find love once more."
Original!Alex lowered his head a bit as Kyle held his hand, knowing that both of them would start to tear up.
"On the bright side, there is some good news," Articora!Alex revealed his left hand with a ring on there.
"Oh my god…" Original!Alex realized as everyone gasped. He got up to hug his twin and cried with him, "I'm so proud of you…"
Everyone smiled with some moisten face/tears. The mother cried out in joy as she got up to hug him as well. Moments later, Articora!Rei arrived in.
"Well, well, this is quite a new beginning," Kyle said.
"I promise to atone for what I've done…and to become a better husband and in-law," Articora!Rei bowed his head, "Please accept us!"
"You saved all of us," Sergi said, "Gave us a new chance of life…and that…is what our gift will be to you…and to Sandro…the Articora one of course."
Some of them chuckled at the correction response. Articora!Rei smiled with his own tears, "Thank you."
At the swimming complex…
News of the engagement went quickly around town as both the volleyball and the swimming teams were in awe and shock of this. In between their swim routines, the 10 members of the Iwasame Senshi gathered to hear the news.
"Y-You knew this Rei-chan?!" Nagisa gasped.
"When is the wedding?! Where are we going to do this at?!" Makoto freaked out a little.
"Calm down Makoto," Haruka sighed.
"We'll pull something out to help," Sousuke agreed.
"Heh, never thought the butterfly will make it at last," Rin said, "Well the Articoran one…"
"We need a nickname for him too," Nagisa said, "Maybe…Arti-Rei-chan?"
"Now that's not beautiful," Rei sighed.
"I can get decorations and confections and cake! Did I mention cake?!" Nagisa continued.
"Don't forget the balloons and streamers! No rice! Gotta think of the birds!" Momo added.
Nitori sighed, "They're acting like they're the ones getting married."
Perish the thought and sink that ship hard, Rei thought.
"God, the last time there were birds..." Ikuya looks at Haru.
"Oi, not now," Haruka crossed his arms and turned his head to the side. Makoto blushed a bit as he recalled that day in Iwatobi when Haruka and Ikuya were feeding the birds but then it got out of control.
"Oh jeez…I remember this," Asahi tried hard to not chuckle.
"Ok, we shouldn't get too hyped up and make a bigger mess," Rin said before turning to Rei, "So then, when did they set their engagement?"
"A little bit ago…maybe last night?" Rei shrugged.
"Speaking of…has Alex…our 'Alex' rather. Has he made his mind yet?" Makoto asked.
"Perhaps we should find the family?" Sousuke suggested.
"Sounds like a plan," Asahi nodded.
"Now as for color scheme…" Nagisa was busy in his mind about the wedding.
"Nagisa, drop it. Please?" Nitori sighed.
"I don't know if they want a big company at their doorstep but..." Ikuya began.
"There's no need to search," a voice was heard. Everyone turned to see Alex along with his family and the engaged couple.
"I've made my resolve...with my other half," Original!Alex said, "I will be staying with all of you...as the newly Generation team of Swimming Guardians. My twin will marry this Rei here...and return to Earth with the rest of my family."
The senshi looked at each other as Nitori replied, "You are sure that's what you want to do?"
"There's a lot of work to be done...for all of us," the senshi answered with a small smile.
"Then...we give our service to protect you...Neo King Alexander," Makoto greeted as the ten senshi kneeled down. Alex blushed a bit.
"This must be what it's like to be popular," Kyle chuckled.
"It's who we are...Odysseus," his husband sighed.
"Neo King Alexander, Neo King Odysseus...we are the Iwasame Senshi, destined to protect you and the bonds to our Mizu Gods...and swimming," Rin said after they all got back on their feet, "This duty is our oath...to move forward."
"With more numbers strengthening the cause, we will become a valuable team," Ikuya added.
"Sandro, pootsie," the mother said, "You know what you have to do."
"I know," he replied, trying hard to not cry, "But I will miss all of you in the meantime."
With that said, the four family members made a group hug as Original!Alex's face teared up. Articora!Alex comforted him though he too had some tears likewise.
"Please watch over the family for me when you can," Original!Alex said.
"We will…" Articora!Alex promised.
"Things will get better here on out," Sergi added, "The two of you have made peace to yourselves, to others, and to the worlds you exist on."
"For now, let's get a wedding going," the father stated.
The word of the wedding continues onward across town, as everyone contributed their efforts to make this wedding...a happy one. Filled with decorations, joy, good food, new friendships, and hopefully...a new era onward...
At the restaurant, during a small break, Oikawa was hesitant about going but then it got a bit more intense when Dodecadron announced to have the business cater that day along with Osamu's Onigiri Outing.
God, this better not ruin a happy day, he thought.
"C-cousin?" Albert looked at him.
"It's nothing," Oikawa made a false smile, "We should get ready for the wedding, huh?"
The MSBY and the SA gang were doing some practice together for an hour or so at the backyard of Kenma and Kuroo's place. Upon taking a break, the news about an upcoming wedding was going across the local town's social media.
Atsumu nearly spits out his water but swallows before muttering, "A wedding they say, hmm..."
"No way! It's like the time when Neo King Julius and the others got married..." Kourai recalls the nostalgia in joy.
Sakusa kept this in silence while turning to Ushijima as the latter replied, "Well then, it should be quite the spectacle."
"Is it going to be open for everyone?" Shouyou asked.
"Define everyone?" Tobio looked at him.
Atsumu's phone vibrated for a moment, indicating a message from Osamu. Upon reading it, his jaw dropped, "Oh my...is he really going to cater his business? His first day on the job is at this wedding?!"
"Wow, that's great! Congrats to him!" Shouyou replied.
"Yeah, he'd do something like this," Atsumu grinned.
"Maybe they might invite us?" Bokuto tilted his head.
"Perhaps but that's up to the couple," Sakusa said.
Oikawa and Albert were able to take some residence on the upstairs loft area of Dodecadron's place. Since they were both getting started in their employment, it wasn't much they can afford to look around despite coming from a realm of royalty.
The brunette-haired man was laying down on the cot just as Albert walked into the room after washing up, "Hey are you okay? You seem rather quiet? The wedding, isn't it?"
"It's going to be awkward, I know it," Oikawa sighed, "Especially if the others are there."
"Has anyone even contacted you?" Albert asked.
"Kenma, Kuroo, Iwai-chan and now Kei. I'm surprised, really," he answered, "At least those three of have seen us before."
"Maybe but…I know we just got these jobs too. Perhaps things will be okay?" Albert replied, "Our boss seems like a hefty strong guy...a no-nonsense kind of person."
"That is true," Oikawa nodded, "But even still, I just don't want there to be any trouble while we're there."
"With those four, I'm sure they'll keep you out of trouble," Albert slightly smiled.
"I hope so," Oikawa answered.
"Oh, before I forget…I was thinking about joining the swimming crew..." Albert blushed after a moment of hesitation
Oikawa's expression lightened a little, "Really? That was sudden. What made you consider taking that up?"
"Remember after the downfall of the kingdom...we went to the beach for some time? Trying to at least survive out in the woods...before finding our way out of course..." Albert replied.
"Heh, how could I forget," Oikawa commented, "You were mighty impressive in the water. Guess it makes sense."
"Would you watch me race someday? Well, once I get good at it of course," the white-blond haired man asked.
"Need to ask? Of course, I'll be there to watch you and give you my fullest support," Oikawa smiled.
"T-thanks, I'll be back later," Albert replied as he finished drying up and getting dressed before heading out.
After knowing he's alone for the time being, Oikawa takes out an old photograph. There, imprinted on the image is him with his past teammates.
If only there was some way we could be together again, he thought, if only I never did what I did. I know they'll never forgive me...just another pipe dream.
Far elsewhere…
A lone figure sat on his ravishing leather chair and sturdy desk of the personal office, looking at the multiple video cameras that were discreetly stationed throughout the entire planet. Several events were chronicled, reviewed, and written in his diary including those of the Magic Six…of the past.
It had been over 200 years since the return of humanity on this planet as he reflected from all the hidden history locked away. Indeed, the secrets of Duniya (the lab, the wars, other cities, and the Dark One Pandora, etc.) were discovered many years ago after Chirottori seemingly fell by the Magic Six but before anyone could locate their bodies, all what was left were their clothes.
To prevent anyone from finding out about these so-called heroes, he has set forth censorship throughout the city and set the law enforcers to tighten the security at the walls. Now that they were down, plans for reconstruction were on the way.
Hmmmm, a new version of them, he thought, though their bodies are perfect, they are not the same ones who have left this world back during that war against Chirottori. No. Even their clothes…I had hoped Veronica kept them safe but of course…that weird kid brought them out of the museum a short while ago…all for them to wear once more. Now they wear it as if they are them…such imposters yet real.
The man pushed a button to see the very old clips of Alex and Rasputin at their final fight in the ruins of a castle not far from Iwamara. He narrowed his eyes on Rasputin, suspecting of this entity may be lurking around still after all this time. He compared that video to another clip of the said man but for some reason….
"No…it's another dead end," he grumbled, "They couldn't be…could they?"
With that said, he turned the clips over to see Suiei Cosmos soaring into the air and unleashing a great blast of light destroying the witches once and for all. A low smirk-grin struck on his face as he was indeed fascinated to see this…it was almost like a movie, yet it was real. But the bigger question is…
"My, oh my, such a bright and brilliant light…Cosmos. Have you finally resurfaced once more?" he muttered, about to take a smoke when he heard a knock on the door.
"Sir, it is time," the voice of his 'dog' walked in.
"Tell me that you have it with you?" the blue-haired man asked, his voice getting somewhat grim.
"Yes, all the records of this world and its past carnation…Earth," the darker-haired man said, handing him the USB stick.
"Without any trouble?" he looked at Tadashi.
"No sir. Not one suspecting eye," the secretary replied.
"That's a good dog," Adam grinned darkly as the screens behind him turned blank, "Soon this world…it will waste away and become ours, adding to the plan for our cause…a rebirth of history!"
A NEW ERA BEGINS!
The Swimming Guardians face new challenges both in and out of the water!
Episode 1 set for Water Weds, October 13, 2021
Kuchira hanabi ra ni tasogare no hane ga
Hinyari to nagareteku VIRIDIAN
Kaze MYSTERIOUS