Episode 2: 黒子はボクです& 本気です! - I am Kuroko and I am Serious!
"I've been waiting for you, Makoto Tachibana."
Th-that voice, thought Makoto, it's coming from the princess!
"Yes, it is I," she answered, "I can only talk to you this way from a long distance."
But we never met before, thought Makoto, This is the first time we've interacted!
"Indeed…however…there is someone who I met who knows about you very well…someone who is familiar to you," her voice echoed.
The Princess turned to Kise as he lowered his head towards her, "It's time to give back to the people."
She nodded and stood up tall and mighty despite the short height and opened up her handheld fan, unleashing a rainfall of flowers to the crowds. She danced around in circles to spread the wave further out as the audience awed in amazement.
"Thank you so much!" shouted one of the people, "Thanks to your blessing, Sportsbrooke will be protected once more!"
"PRINCESS GODDESS! PRINCESS GODDESS!" shouted the audience.
"It seems that by bestowing the light to the goddess and in return she gives out flowers back…of course, it's a way to pay respects to her," said Rei.
"But that seems weird how all the lights turned into flowers," said Rin.
Alexa held his hand to his heart, feeling a warmth flow of energy going through his system. A low glow of light shimmered on his hands. The others turned to see what was happening.
Before their eyes, Alexa opened his hands and they gasped to see the flowers that he held.
"It's a Sakura!" gasped Rin.
"H-how is it possible?!" asked Makoto, "Kagami earlier said there were no Sakura trees in this world!"
"My heart," said Alexa, "It must have been feeling emotional about something."
The group turned to the Generation of Miracles and the Princess Goddess while the latter still danced in place. However, a dark look from Midorima fell into Makoto's eyes while Kise waved out to Nagisa. The other blonde waved back happily.
"W-what are you doing!?" asked Rei.
"Just replying hi back," shrugged Nagisa.
"Amazing isn't it?" asked Akashi.
"Indeed," said Aomine, "The people here really do care for us. And for the princess too."
Kise turned to look at Midorima who was still staring towards Makoto with a dark expression. The Tako!Bird screeched to get Midorima's senses back to the present.
"Something the matter, Midorimacchi?" asked Kise.
"I'm fine," he replied, "It's just been a long day."
Elsewhere in the crowd, Riko and Momoi enjoyed the celebration and watched the Princess Goddess dancing and raining flowers around.
In her hands, Riko opened her palm and saw an iris.
"W-wait a sec…how did she knew I liked this flower?" she muttered.
"You felt it too?" asked Momoi.
Riko nodded and turned to the goddess while muttering, "Forgive me to invade your privacy princess but…"
She called upon her scanning ability to look through the princess's body. There was something fishy about this and she had to study it carefully to make sure of something. Immediately, she recoiled back in a state of shock.
"N-no…!" she gasped, "No it can't be!"
"Riko?" asked Momoi before she looked through the princess as well, gasping at the revelation, "I-is that?!"
"How can this be?!" said Riko, looking at Momoi, "I thought…no…he's been lying to us!"
"I can't believe it either…I thought he trusted us," said Momoi, feeling a bit sad and shocked.
"We have to get to the bottom of this!" she answered, "Let's go!"
Momoi nodded and followed Riko out of the celebration.
Alexa woke up and found himself alone in the darkness again. He remembered having this dream many times back home.
"W-where am I?" he asked to himself.
It was all silence and blackness in the void. He turned around and saw a man before him with a face that looked almost like his own.
"W-who are you?" asked Alexa, "Why do you keep appearing in my dreams?"
He walked his way over but was stuck in place.
"You've been in my dreams TOO many times! WHO ARE YOU!? WHY DO YOU LOOK LIKE ME!? CAN'T YOU AT LEAST OPEN YOUR EYES AND TELL ME!?" he shouted.
The man finally opened his eyes and smiled, saying, "I will be waiting for you...on the day you remember it all..."
Morning: Kagami's Loft
"ALEXA!" shouted Makoto, shaking him to wake up. The other man gasped and breathed heavily while struggling to sit up from his sleeping bag. Rei and the others had worried expressions on their faces.
"W-where…?" began Alexa.
"You don't remember?" asked Rin, "We're at Kagami's place."
"Was it another dream?" asked Gaardus.
"Only one…it's always the same," said Alexa.
"The same one?" asked Haruka, "You mean with that man?"
"Yes, but this time…he finally opened his eyes," he replied.
"Did you recognize him?" asked Nagisa.
"Afraid not," he said.
"Well let's not dwell on it too much," said Gaardus, "It's a new day now and Kagami will be back here soon."
"That was nice of him to let us stay in his loft. But I'm worried about what will happen to us once we meet up with the Goddess and all," agreed Rin.
"I have a lot of questions!" said Rei while Nagisa smiled softly.
"Like why is there no pool?" asked Haruka.
"Haru!" replied Rin while Makoto chuckled.
"For example," giggled Rei.
"Yeah I'm also curious about this too," sighed Nagisa, "It's a shame that there are no pools here! I mean, do people even take baths!?"
"Nagisa!" said Rei.
Kagami walked in finally as he was carrying some bags from the markets. He saw that the Magic Six were all awakened from their rest.
"Did you all sleep well?" he asked.
"We did, thanks for asking," replied Rei.
"I'm feeling a bit hungry," said Alexa as his stomach growled.
"Oh that's not a problem. I got breakfast made for all you guys," answered Kagami.
"Yayz!" cheered Nagisa.
"We can't thank you enough for everything," smiled Makoto.
"So then, when will we go meet with the princess?" asked Rin.
"We'll leave after breakfast. However, I want you to meet some guys who will help us today," replied Kagami.
Two tall men arrived in the scene; one was about 6'4" with brown hair and eyes while the other was 5'10" with a pair of glasses with darker brown hair (perhaps black) and green eyes.
"Who are you guys?" asked Rei.
"This is Kyoshi Teppei and Hyuuga Junpei. These guys are my senpais," said Kagami, "They'll help us get to the fortress."
"Nice to meet you!" smiled Nagisa while the others bowed.
"Sounds like it'll be an escort," muttered Alexa.
"It seems so," nodded Rin while Haruka remained silent on the commentary.
"But first, we should all eat before we go, okay?" smiled Makoto.
"Yes!" said Alexa.
"So you cooked today Kagami?" asked Kiyoshi.
"There should be enough for all of us," replied Kagami.
"I'm ready then! Let's go eat!" answered Hyuuga.
Afterwards, the Seirin Trio led the Magic Six through the streets, heading towards the Palace of the Miracles which was a strange-shaped building that almost looked like a cross between a candle and a trophy with fancy exterior swirling designs.
"Amazing," said Makoto while Alexa's eyes were fixed on the design of the place.
Rin silently held hands to Haru while the latter slightly blushed and turned his head to the side.
"It is really beautiful," agreed Rei while Nagisa smiled.
They got up to the stairs which led to the front entrance. The majestic doors opened to reveal Aomine, Kise, and Midorima standing inside.
Midorima kept his silence while Aomine and Kise welcomed them inside.
"Oh you were the one who waved at me last night!" said Nagisa, "My name is Nagisa Hazuki!"
"Nice to meet you Nagisacchi! I'm Kise Ryouta!" replied the other blonde.
Midorima made a loud, obnoxious cough while Makoto carefully stared at him while trying not to look at his eyes.
He gave me that nasty expression last night, he thought.
"We apologize for asking you all to come in early this morning," said Aomine.
"It's fine," replied Alexa, "We got a lot of questions to ask."
"The Princess has been waiting. We'll bring you to her," said Kise.
They began their way through the halls of crystal and gardens, amazed by the sheer beauty of this place.
Alexa felt a strange vibe coming from Midorima while Rei smiled, "My name is Rei, it's a pleasure to meet you all."
"Save your introductions for when we meet with her," said Midorima.
Rei frowned to himself as he thought that was rude of the other megane to act this cold.
"I don't like him...he's awfully dark about something," whispered Rin to Haru.
Makoto turned to Rei with a bit of a shrug while the megane shook his head.
"What's his problem?" asked Nagisa silently to Kise.
"Don't worry about him," said the other blonde.
"He's just having a bad day," added Aomine.
Deciding to use his Suiei power, Alexa closed his eyes to focus on Midorima's mind, hoping to at least pry inside and see what was making him acting the way he is. For a moment, he saw something dark and nasty inside of him but before he could actually analyze it, he had to recoil as he nearly dodged Midorima's reaction.
"What's the matter, Alexa?" asked Makoto.
Kise turned his head to look at him briefly before turning back around to the others.
Even though it all seems alright, we are definitely guarded by them...probably because of our powers, thought Haruka.
Midorima turned to his bird and said, "Go fly around for a bit."
The Takao!Bird screeched and soared off while Gaardus watched the bird fly towards the opposite direction. He managed to observe some stuff about these gentlemen and was collecting data too thanks to Alexa opening inside of Midorima's mental state.
At the end of the hall stood Akashi and Murasakibara standing on guard. The Magic Six, Gaardus, the Seirin trio, Aomine, Kise, and Midorima arrived at the doors.
"Our master awaits you," said Akashi as the doors finally opened to reveal a bright room where the goddess sat on a soft-bed-like couch with curtains around. The room was mostly wide (though long if viewed from a different angle) with candles, plants, a few birds, and perhaps a small fountain of water.
"Welcome…Magic Six…please come in!" said the goddess's voice, "I've been expecting you!"
The team walked inside where they finally saw the person waiting for them. They all gasped in shocked to see that this person had shorter blue hair but had the same blue eyes and was looking more masculine.
"W-wait a sec…THE OUTFITS?! THE HAIR!?" gasped Makoto as he saw the wig standing on a mannequin and the outfits that was worn last night on there.
"You're not a girl?!" asked Nagisa and Rei.
The man stand up from his seat and replied, "I am just like you guys; a man bestowed with magic of my own. Welcome to Sportsbrooke Magic Six. My name is Tetsuya Kuroko, the Phantom of Basketball."
"Phantom?" asked Alexa.
"Wonder what that means?" muttered Rin.
"We have a lot of questions to ask," said Rei.
"I can see you do, Rei Ryugazaki," smiled Kuroko.
"Y-you know all of our names?!" asked Makoto.
"Indeed. There was someone who I met a while back…a villager from your world. He told me about you guys and with that, I was able to predict and foresee your arrival to this land," explained Kuroko.
"Who?" asked Nagisa.
"A man with pink-peached hair…with a name that sounds mildly suggestive…maybe romantic…" he replied.
Makoto gasped as he immediately realized what he was talking about as he answered, "N-NO!"
"You don't mean…" said Rin.
"HE'S ALIVE!?" asked Makoto.
"How?!" asked Rei.
"And he's here?" asked Nagisa.
"Yes, Kisumi Shigino made it to this world several months ago," said Kuroko, "Please sit down. I am sure we have a lot to discuss."
They all sat back down and continued their conversation as Makoto began, "We've been searching for him shortly after he disappeared...we thought he was dead!"
"Kisumi didn't want to burden any of you guys," explained Kuroko, "He came here to this world to start a new life and he's been much happier since."
"Happier?" asked Rei.
"So he wasn't happy in our world?" asked Nagisa.
"He didn't completely told me the story but he said that the world where you all were from was a bit too dangerous for him. He wanted nothing to do with that realm any longer," he explained, "So he came here and got his chance to study basketball."
"I remember our family told us the other sports such as basketball," said Rei, "I didn't realize Kisumi had a dream about it and wanted to make it his thing."
"Yeah," nodded Nagisa, "At least that makes sense."
"But where is he now? Is he still here in Sportsbrooke?" asked Makoto.
"I've only spoken to him once...since then he has not been heard of," replied Kuroko.
Rei's expression grew a bit worried while Rin said, "We have a bunch of questions to ask still, if it's alright."
"Go on," answered Kuroko, "I am all ears."
"The Legend of the Goddess...why is it that you are not what it says you are?" asked Haruka.
"The Legend was created to simply hide the painful story behind us," he replied, "Just over a year ago...this town faced a terrible crisis..."
"A crisis?" asked Rin.
"A curse," said Kuroko.
"What kind?" asked Rei.
"One of which affected all of us," said Aomine as he and the other Generation of Miracles stood side by side with Kuroko.
"These five men standing before me were affected under this spell," continued Kuroko, "They simply turned against our friendship and wanted to challenge me alone versus them in a match. And the people in the entire city sided with them as well."
"That must have been terrible! I can't imagine the pain you went through!" gasped Nagisa.
"Well it's not like there's no hope in this town. I simply had to find the man who would become "the Savior" of this place," said Kuroko.
"Who was it?" asked Rei as he was eager to meet this person.
"Please come in," said Kuroko as he looked up to the doorway.
Kagami walked in along with Kiyoshi and Hyuuga as the Magic Six were stunned by the fact that The Savior was actually him all along.
"EHHH!?" gasped Rin, Rei, and Nagisa.
"So Kagami is…?" asked Makoto.
"I am a supporting actor, a shadow. But a shadow will become darker if the light is stronger and it will make the white of the light stand out. As the shadow of the main actor, I will make you, the light, and the number one in Sportsbrooke…The Savior..." explained Kuroko.
"I don't believe it!" said Rin, "You're The Savior?"
"I am," replied Kagami as he rubbed the back of his head with a slight sweat drop.
"But why didn't you tell us?!" asked Nagisa.
"We simply didn't want Sportsbrooke to be burdened with this fact. So we turned that day into a "Legend", and a "Legend" into a festival," answered Kuroko.
"But…how exactly did you save them? The others?" asked Haruka.
"The light from Kagami as his power he dons as "The Savior"," said Kuroko, "When the others were infected, they demanded me to challenge them in a basketball match. I gathered whoever was immune to the curse and we played the match. However, the darkness was not satisfied enough and they began to destroy the city from the inside out.
"Kagami was able to unlock his inner abilities by passing through the "Gate" and unleashed the ability to bring the people out of the darkness."
"The Gate?" asked Rei.
"It's a Metaphorical Gate," said Akashi, "If you are talented enough you can open it. Only some of us can go past it."
"Does it like hold magic or something?" asked Nagisa.
"More like it can unlock your greatest potential," said Kise.
"Sounds like similar to the sight we see when we swim together and…" began Rin.
"Rin!" said the others, hoping to not reveal their swimming talents after learning that this world banned swimming.
Kuroko only smiled and answered, "Don't worry. It's alright. We are aware of your talents as swimmers and holding the forbidden magic. However that magic is vital to your home in order to protect that reality."
"What are you going to do to us!?" asked Makoto, worried while Nagisa crept closer to Rei.
After a few moments, Kuroko answered, "Why would I put you guys to death or imprisoned when you have great potential for the city."
"And what are you asking for?" asked Haruka.
"Demons have been lurking around the outskirts and some have managed to get inside the city. It's true that our own magic is powerful but only yours with the forbidden powers can defeat them. We ask for your help in protecting the city until we can make further amends," said Kuroko.
"We're very much appreciated," replied Alexa.
"We'll do what we can to stop this threat," agreed Makoto.
Nagisa turned to Kise and said, "So…it seems like we'll be here in town for a while. I think we should start knowing each other!"
Kise grabbed Nagisa's hands and replied, "You wanna go shopping with me?!"
"OMG YES!" answered Nagisa as the two were already making cute faces.
"There he goes already," said Rin with a sweat drop while Rei shook his head with amusement.
The Takao!Bird flew into the room and landed in front of the magic six.
"Such a cute bird!" smiled Alexa as he tried to pet it.
"This is Takao," said Kuroko before turning to Midorima, "Must you keep our friend like this with guests around?"
Midorima replied by flicking his fingers, transforming Takao back to his human self just as Alexa nearly jumped back.
"Whoa!" gasped Rin while Harua's eyes twitched.
"Ehhhh?!" gasped Makoto.
"WOW! THAT'S AMAZING!" said Nagisa.
"Uhhhh," began Rei.
Midorima left the room afterwards while Akashi noticed him and keeping a note to himself to talk to him later.
"Hello everyone," smiled Takao, "I'm Takao Kazunari! Welcome to our lovely home!"
"You were such a pretty bird," replied Nagisa.
Takao rubbed on the back of his head with a bit of a blush, "Yeah…just an ability I have for Shin-chan."
"Well then, seeing as you gentlemen will be here in this city, there are some rooms for you guys in this palace. And you'll have the ability to go around in this city too," said Kuroko.
"Consider it as a gift from all of us," agreed Kagami.
"Thank you very much!" replied Alexa.
"Yeah, this is so much to ask!" nodded Rin.
"Thank you. And by the way could I have a look in your library?" asked Rei.
"You love books too much Rei-chan!" said Nagisa.
"Of course, please...go on ahead and take this time to explore around. My men will take you on a tour of this place," replied Kuroko.
"Thanks," smiled Rei as they began to split off into smaller groups.
Flashback: Aqua Duniya, 1 Month after the Purification Rite
Upon completion of the Purification Rite (7 Days of Water Blessing), the Magic Six have forgotten what happened during that week since they were now busy taking their swim lessons finally. The first few weeks were good for some while a bit challenging for others.
Haruka was already going with his freestyle while Nagisa took on the breaststroke. Makoto has practiced both freestyle and backstroke (but mostly the latter) while Rin focused on the butterfly and freestyle. Rei has only practiced the butterfly in the meantime.
The Magic Six were not alone though; Sousuke, Seijuurou, Momotarou, Nitori, Aki, and a few other villagers were taking lessons as well. The Kingdom of Hawakoto relied on swimming as a means of sport, hunting, as well as for entertainment purposes.
At the Hawakotobi Swim Class, the students practiced their strokes, floating on the water and some practiced their diving.
Haruka was already doing his usual freestyle while Makoto smiled and said, "Like always, Haru-chan is graceful in his swimming!"
"Yeah, just like a dolphin!" agreed Nagisa turning to Rei with a smile.
Rei nodded in agreement while the blonde dove in to practice his breaststroke, recalling his lessons from Sasabe and assistance with Rin. The red-hair was developing his swimming of all the strokes while Alexa wasn't far behind but the latter was a bit slow in speed.
Rei watched them silently while he fiddled his swim cap. Makoto turned to him, "Something wrong?"
"I don't know if I want to swim today…" said Rei, "My swimming isn't as beautiful like everyone else's."
"Oh don't say that!" replied Makoto, looking at his purple eyes, "Your butterfly is actually great! Maybe you should just specialize that instead of doing an individual medley!"
"You're right," nodded the megane, "I guess I should. I'll definitely show this kingdom the most beautiful butterfly!"
Rin got out of the pool to get back to the diving blocks while Alexa reached his hand to the wall along with Sousuke and Aki and chuckled with them. The twins were at a different pool with some other students as they were learning about special diving techniques.
"You're doing better, your majesty," said Sousuke.
"You don't have to give the fancy titles," blushed Alexa.
"Well you are the High Prince," replied Aki.
"True, but you've been friends with us much longer than that," he smiled.
"Yeah! I like Alexa-chan's swimming!" giggled Nagisa after he took a breath from his practice.
Rin dove back into the pool to catch up with Haruka while Nitori arrived in a few minutes late but focused on his breaststroke.
After 20 minutes or so into the session, Sasabe blew the whistle and said, "Okay everyone! Let's get out for a moment and welcome our new visitor! We got a new trainer who will help us out!"
"T-trainer?" asked Nitori.
"I don't remember this," said Makoto.
Rei turned as Rin stopped abruptly with Haruka and got out to see the students gathering. Sousuke narrowed his eyes a little while Alexa and Nagisa got out.
"Come along! He's waiting!" said Sasabe, waving out to the group.
Nagisa grabbed a hold of Rei's arm and the megane slightly blushed. After a couple of minutes, the students sat down on the bench as a cloaked figure walked into the room and stopped in front of them. He took off the hood and stripped off his cloak as he donned a full swimsuit like Sasabe.
At the bleachers, Gou watched the new figure as she could already see the muscles and shape of this man; firm, yet visible muscles that made her smile a little.
He's cute, she thought.
"Good morning class. My name is Theagenes and I am going to be your advance assistant for your swimming skills. Goro and I have set up a training regimen that will help you swim faster and stronger as you continue onwards," said the new man.
'Starting next month, there will be a division of teams and you will eventually specialize in your skills and take them to competition levels. However, since there is not enough people yet, this will be about timings," continued Sasabe, "Once more people join the swim teams, we'll have more games and challenges provided for all of you."
"I appreciate for being a part of this great legacy!" smiled Theagenes as he bowed to the group.
The students muttered amongst themselves but Momo clapped his hands and the others eventually gave in to provide a proper welcome.
Later: The Sakura Tree, Hawakoto Palace
Haruka sat alone on top of the tree and watched the petals drifted around through the breeze. After the session was done, he would normally go back to the private lessons but he called it off today.
Rin finally arrived (after he finished his private education lessons) and saw him up, asking, "Yo, Haru. What do you think about him?"
"…he's a creep," answered Haruka.
"EHHH!? Oh come on Haru! He's only trying his best to help us become great swimmers!" said Rin.
"I don't like timings," replied Haruka.
Rin sighed and answered, "But how are you going to press onwards when we start to do all the competitions?"
Haruka kept silent for a moment, ignoring that question. He never really liked to compete because he thought it meant nothing.
"Okay, I'm tired of having to shout from below," said Rin, "I'm going to climb up!"
The red-haired put his foot at the base of the trunk while trying to push himself up and stretching out his hand to the first branch. After a moment's of struggle, he finally grabbed it and smiled.
Good, he thought, I just need to pull up and get the branches.
He made another branch up, getting closer to Haruka. The blue-eyed boy remained silent and peaceful, trying to listen to the ocean around. Rin was about to get on the same branch as Haru when his foot suddenly lost it and his grip slipped.
"YAAHHH!" shouted Rin.
"WATERS OF THE GEL!" shouted a voice nearby as a ball of water/gel like substance appeared to help Rin landed safely on his back.
Haruka turned to see Alexa, Makoto, Nagisa, and Rei rushing to the scene with Rin.
"What were you thinking? You could have gotten hurt!" said Makoto.
"Are you alright, Rin-chan!?" asked Nagisa.
"I'm alright but…why does Haru like to go up there?" replied Rin.
"Maybe it's his time to think?" shrugged Makoto.
"For what?! I mean...why? What could he possibly be thinking?" sighed Rin.
"Maybe for his own future?" asked Alexa.
"Onii-chaaaan!" shouted Gou as she arrived at the group, "I found something important!"
"Eh?!" asked Rin.
"Gou-chan!" smiled Nagisa.
"It's Kou!" she answered.
"Gou!"
"Kou!"
"Gou!"
"Kou!"
"Kou!"
"Gou!"
"Haha, it is Gou!" said the blonde.
"Nagisa please!" sighed Rei.
"What did you find exactly?" asked Rin.
She handed the paper to him which was a diagram of what looked like a family tree.
"Look! It's our family but I can only read our parents' names!" she answered, "It was hidden somewhere in the family attic."
"Well it looks like our grandma's name is on there too but faded," he said, scanning the paper. He looked at the Toraichi (the father) side and gasped to see two blank spaces next to their father's name.
"W-wait a sec…there's two blank spots next to father's!" he gasped.
Haruka climbed his way down to see this while they grouped around to see the family tree.
"What's the matter?" asked Makoto.
Rin's hands nearly trembled but he looked at Gou and asked, "Father never said anything about siblings has he?"
"What? No, of course not," she answered.
"Maybe he didn't tell you about them?" asked Rei.
"No idea…but this isn't a good idea to take something from there, sister, take it back," said Rin, "If father finds out we were up there…he'll."
"No worries," she chuckled, "I'll get Aki-chan to make a copy of it."
"Rin, if it is true, then why anyone hasn't said anything?" asked Haruka.
"I don't know," he answered.
Gou took the paper back and returned inside the castle. Rei watched her before turning to Rin, "Are you not that curious?"
"It's not that," said Rin, "I went up to the attic once and I was caught and punished for the rest of the night. Father forbade us to go there. But I wonder…"
Alexa turned to see the sunset and said, "Well it's going to be sundown, supper will be ready soon."
"Yeah, I'm starving anyway! Let's go eat!" agreed Rin.
"YAYZ!" cheered Nagisa, "I'm getting hungry!"
"Nagisa, you are always hungry," said Rei while shaking his head.
The blonde stuck out his tongue at him and ran back inside. The others immediately followed, heading towards the hall for the families' grand dinner.
Flashback 2: Generation of Miracles – Kuroko's life
13 Years Ago: The Village of Seirin
Far out to the southwest, beyond the treacherous Desert Spikes Canyon, is a small village where the people face periods of sandstorms followed by droughts. Only one month of floods/rain season occurs in which the people have made some primitive engineer in maintaining the water.
A 7-year old Kuroko carried a basket of grain over his head, following a group of people heading to the markets. Since birth, his family has fallen into the worst of the worst in poverty. In order to make ends barely met, the blue-haired was forced to go into labor with the markets.
He looked up to the blazing sunny skies, wondering how far it would take for one to go up high enough and to be burned into the suns. All he wanted was to either leave this place or to at least die alone. His parents also worked in the markets until a recent accident when the building collapsed, killing them both in the process.
However, that same day, he met a person…another boy whose family was killed by some people with a strange tattoo design on their bodies.
"Hey, Kuro!" shouted the familiar voice.
Kuroko turned to see Chihiro Mayuzumi carrying a basket of dead leaves.
"Chi!" he answered, "What are you doing here?"
"Hey, I've heard that there's a strange guest here in town. The Mayor demands the children to attend because he's looking for someone," said Chi.
The two made their way to the Seirin hall where they saw the man in a cloaked figure standing with a staff. The hood covered the man's face turned to see the two when his eyes finally widened on the one.
"Yes…yess...yesssss…" hissed the man, "Give me this boy."
"Your payment?" asked the mayor.
"Oh it's on the way, I promise," said the man with a smirk, "Give me a week and you shall have your desire."
"One week," answered the mayor with a stern look, "Fail me and you will be killed."
The cloaked man walked up to Kuroko and revealed his surprisingly youthful face, "Well hello there…Kuroko Tetsuya."
Kuroko's eyes widened in shock as Chihiro was stunned as well.
"I have a specific job for you," said the man, "Come with me and I promise you a better life."
At nightfall, Kuroko followed the man to a small tent that he pitched outside of Seirin.
"It's dangerous out here!" said Kuorko, "The Sand Wolves and Rattle Snakes…"
"I have set up an area for you and me," answered the man, "They will not be a threat of ours."
"Are you some sort of magician or something?" asked Kuroko.
"Not just any man," he said, "I am Theagenes."
"W-what?! You mean…?" began Kuroko.
"You honestly thought I'd be an old-looking bastard?" he laughed, "Well I could take on that form if you wish…"
"NO!" he shouted.
"I'm only kidding," said Theagenes, "However, you…have been holding a strange power within you. Don't you wish you ever wanted to leave this place…leave Seirin?"
"And what makes you think you know about me?" asked Kuroko, "I don't understand who I even am!"
"Perhaps not, but…I can teach you the secret to making this town become more prestigious…and wealthier," answered Theagenes, "It's taking what's down on our feet…and making into something of value."
"T-the sand?" asked Kuroko.
"Yes…turning sand into whatever glass-based properties it can be made into," smiled the Dark One, "I can teach you how to make sand into crystal…and jewels…and more!"
"But…that's impossible," said Kuroko, "It's like having an entire garden growing! Nothing ever works here!"
"If you think that," replied Theagenes, "But if you learn from me, I can give you something better."
Kuroko closed his eyes for a moment, feeling totally unsure about all of this. While it's true that he never got much support from his parents, just how could he suddenly trust this guy? However, should it be true that this man knows something…
"Alright," he answered, "But I expect one thing in return."
"And what is it do you desire?" asked Theagenes.
"…to become a Phantom…and not always be noticed easily unless I make it my will," said Kuroko.
"Such a unique power to be granted…but remember this: all magic comes with a price!" replied Theagenes.
1 Week Later...
The villagers gasped in amazement at the sight of jewels, glass, and crystals at the town hall. The mayor himself stared at Kuroko and asked him; "Did you find all of this?"
"Indeed I have," he answered, "Buried in the deepest heart of this town. There is an endless pot of valuables that will bring people from all over the world to see."
And sure enough, visitors from other cities came by the score, pouring money into the town. The excessive amount of wealth transformed the small village into an industrial sized city.
Six years have gone by after this and the people were living in better conditions but still faced the same weather patterns. Theagenes smirked from afar as he stood along with two gentlemen. They stared at the city.
"So then? When do you want us to capture him?" asked the darker toned man.
"It's not that boy, it's the friend of his…he is the true phantom powered being," said Theagenes, "Kuroko is just simply a madman."
"But you're the one who taught him magic!" said the blond-haired man with a piercing beneath his frontal face.
"True, but the problem with him is that he was immune to the curse between him and his friend. The friend is the one whose cursed powers will bring about the destiny of this world," replied the Dark One.
Seirin's Gold Diggin' Shop
"Oi, Kuroko!" said Chihiro, "Can you help us with the crystal dishes?"
"Be right there!" he replied, "I'm trying to polish off the golden goblets!"
The two along with a bunch of other employees were closing up the shop for the day as some of them were checking the inventory while others were reorganizing the shelves. Kuroko and Chihiro became the store managers but also worked along with the workers.
"I can't believe it's going to be 6 years since it all began," smiled Chihiro, "Thanks to you. The people of Seirin are living in better conditions."
"Yeah," nodded Kuroko, "I couldn't say it better."
"Well it'll be time to lock up the shop soon so we better get everything set," said Chihiro.
Once everyone got out, Kuroko and Chihiro locked up the doors with a sigh of relief. Finally it was the weekend and they could sleep in till later tomorrow.
"You know, with this successful business, we should travel together," smiled Chihiro.
"You think so?" asked Kuroko.
"Think about it, we can expand our business to the other cities!" he replied.
"Sounds a bit risky but we can consider it someday," nodded Kuroko.
The two parted their ways for the night but one of them was not going to see the next day so beautiful.
"Chihiro!? CHIHIRO!?"
Chihiro opened his eyes and found himself tied up on a post with two men staring at him. They were clearly older than he was with evil smirks and grins and the tattoo marks.
T-those men, he thought, the rumors…no!
"Indeed it is us," said Jason Silver, "The Jabberwocks!"
"We just got one motherfucking simple question for you monkey," added Nash Gold Jr, "Who taught you the secret to make all that treasure?"
"W-what treasure?" asked Chihiro.
Jason kicked him on the face and replied, "Stupid monkey! Clearly you know him! You got the powers that we've been waiting to obtain from!"
"Next time you don't respond, your hand gets twisted," threatened Nash.
"I have not learned anything!" said Chihiro, "I've only learned how to maintain the business! If you want answers, I'm not the one you want!"
"What a bratty monkey," sighed Jason, "Can we kill this dick?"
"We haven't got into the heart of the conversation yet," said Nash as he went on his knees to look into Chihiro's eyes.
"Clearly your powers are dormant just like his…assuming that if you do know the secret behind all of this, you would've been fighting us by now."
"Let me go!" growled Chihiro, "It's Kuroko! He's the one that has manipulated the sand into gold!"
"W-wait a sec," said Nash, "You mean that bastard is the one who taught the madman to make business?!"
Chihiro gasped to himself as he realized how much danger he put his sole friend into. Clearly he had to think of a way to break out before…
"So it was Kuroko after all…" said Jason, "Of course Theagenes kept us away from him because of his precious game pieces…but I think it's time we eliminate one of his pieces before he tries to make this a project."
Kuroko opened his eyes as he found himself lying on the white background. He saw a tall man standing before him donned in a red basketball jersey with the number 11 on it. The man had black hair with snow white skin with a small smile on his face.
"I-it's you again," said Kuroko, "Who are you and why do you appear in my dreams?"
The man smiled a bit wider and answered, "Because you are my future self…you are my descendant…"
"F-future…self? Descendant?" asked Kuroko.
"I placed a part of my heart into you," said the man, "Just like five other men who were my companions. We need you to keep the true heart of our team to stay alive."
"W-wait, please, I need your help," replied Kuroko, "I need to locate my friend!"
"He's still alive but you have yet to awaken your true power as a Phantom," answered the man.
"What is your name?" asked Kuroko.
"Kaede Rukawa, the Old Phantom of the Generation of Marvels," he said, "You must carry on the power of the Phantom to find the man who will one day become 'the Savior'."
"The Savior?" asked Kuroko.
"He was a friend of ours, in fact…he was very close to me even though we didn't start off well with each other, but he was the Savior our people before the world shattered away," explained Kaede.
"Who is the man?" he asked.
"This man will carry the same number on his jersey…the number that my friend has worn…but this future self of his will be powerful enough to bring the light out and protect this world at all costs," said Kaede.
"That's nice but...I have to find my friend!" replied Kuroko.
"I will lead you to him...your friend, take my hand," answered Kaede.
Kuroko found himself in a series of caverns where he saw the ghostly figure of Kaede leading him through.
"Your friend is this way," said Kaede, "Please hurry! I don't think there's enough time left!"
The two raced through the caverns, finding themselves deep underground from the surface. After a few twists and turns, they found themselves in a chamber where they heard a group of men laughing along with two of them holding a prisoner in their hands.
Chihiro was bounded to a post with stuff tied to his hands and mouth, preventing him from shouting or trying to escape.
"Now then, among you men," said Jason, "Give us a wealthy sum and the boy is yours."
Kuroko gasped to himself as he recognized the tattoos on their bodies; Theagenes told him (while training him his magic) about a group of men that he was on the run from that longed desire to build wealth.
"These people…" said Kuroko quietly.
"Indeed," replied Kaede, "They are the Jabberwocks."
"I have to save him!" he answered.
"So you too desire power?" asked Kaede, "To what extent do you want it for?"
"…to protect those who do care for me," said Kuroko.
"Then accept your true power…not the one that bastard taught you…" he replied.
"M-my true power?" trembled Kuroko as he thought about his entire life with his unusual abilities when people called him a ghost or a demon.
"Your power is the same as my own," said Kaede, "But only you are the one who currently possesses it; believe in it and you'll be able to save him."
Kuroko closed his eyes and stepped into the room; worried that he would be caught but to his surprise, no one even turned their heads. He quickly got up to the post where he carefully took out a small knife and cut the ropes apart. The men were too busy arguing about the cost of the boy that no one noticed him escaping.
"Kuroko!" gasped Chihiro, being pulled by his friend, "H-how did you find me?!"
"No time!" he answered, rushing through the caverns, "We have to get out of here now!"
The two made their way towards the surface when they saw a massive sand storm heading towards them.
"Save yourself…" smiled Chihiro, "Forgive me…"
"NO! CHIHRIO! CHIHIROOOO!" he screamed as he tried to pull him along but the boy ran towards into the dust storm.
"If I survive those men will try to find me…you on the other hand have the true power to defeat them…but you must flee…GO!" replied Chihiro.
The sand storm covered him as Kuroko tried to chase after but it was no use. He could hear Kaede's voice to teleport out of there. Kaede brought him on a road path that led to a city down ahead.
"W-where have you taken me?!" said Kuroko, furious.
"To a special place where you will find your team mates…those who you must guide," replied Kaede, "Welcome to Sportsbrooke…"
Kuroko stared at the city ahead; despite how upset he was for losing his only friend, he was also curious at the same time about his future. Just what would he find there?
"My time here is almost up," said Kaede, "As a spirit I cannot stay here in the realm of mortality…I wish you the best of luck for finding your team."
"W-wait!" shouted Kuroko but the ghostly figure shimmered away as the sun glowed up the morning skies.
Present Day: The Sportsbrooke Desert Markets
The Magic Six broke into smaller groups with the Generation of Miracles: Rei and Nagisa followed Kise while Haruka and Rin followed Aomine and Makoto and Alexa following Murasakibara. Akashi went to find Midorima while Kuroko stayed behind along with Takao.
Rei and Nagisa went down to the market district with Kise as the other blonde promised Nagisa to go out shopping. The megane already got a book that talked more about the Princess Goddess Legend along with other historical information that he would plan to research later.
"Isn't this great!?" smiled Kise, "Nagisacchi?!"
"Yeah it is Kise-chan!" giggled Nagisa, "The food here is amazing!"
"You and Kagami would be great competitors for food eating contests," smirked the other blonde.
"Oh I've seen how much he eats already! He's definitely a good one!" nodded Nagisa.
"Excuse me for a moment, Kise-kun," said Rei, "But is it true that there have been more demons in this town lately?"
"Afraid so," sighed Kise, "But at least everything seems all peaceful for now."
"I wouldn't worry about it Rei-chan," agreed Nagisa, "Kuro-chan has it under control!"
"True but I don't trust him…the one in the green hair," said Rei.
"Oh, Midorimacchi," replied Kise, "I guess you're right on that; he's been acting strange lately. Normally he welcomes all visitors without a glare but I honestly have no clue on what he's been thinking."
"How about Takao-chan?" asked Nagisa, "Is he close?"
"Oh yes!" said Kise, "Friends since the beginning. However, I wouldn't rely on him either though. He also is as suspicious."
Rei was about to reply when the trio heard a bunch of people screaming followed by an explosion to the east.
"SHIT!" growled Kise, "Come on!"
They made their way towards the source of the explosion where they saw a bunch of demons appearing from a building.
"Dammit!" he growled as he took out his gun at the ready.
One of the demons charged up to Kise and swapped him down.
"KISEEE!" shouted Nagisa.
"NAGISSAAAA!" cried Rei as he grabbed him to avoid an attack.
Gaardus flew down into the scene to fire some blast attacks. However the demons were not ready to give in as easily.
Kise barely got up with his arm bleeding but he fired a few more blasts while several of the Sportsbrooke Police arrived in to combat them as well. The civilians were forced to evacuate the area but Rei was already getting a bit curious about these monsters.
"Rei-chan, it's not safe here!" said Nagisa.
"No…something about them…" replied Rei, feeling an abnormal wavelength, "It's like they're not real…"
"What are you saying?!" asked Kise, "These monsters are frightening enough!"
One of the demons smashed down a small tower, causing rubble to rain down. Nagisa gasped as he saw a little baby being stranded. He rushed his way over as his eyes suddenly glowed neon pink.
"NAGISAAAAA!" screamed Rei.
"NAGISAACHIIIII!" shouted Kise.
Time seemed to have slowed down as Nagisa's Suiei Necklace finally glowed neon pink. Waves of water unleashed from the blonde as the raining rubble shattered into dust.
"I knew it!" said Gaardus, "Nagisa! It's time!"
Nagisa gasped as he could feel power flowing through his veins. He nodded as he looked at the demons with narrowed eyes.
"PENGUIN POWERRRRRR, MAAAKKKEEEEE UP!" shouted the blonde, raising up his right hand in the air. His nails turned magenta in color as the power inside of him was finally unleashed.
The background transformed into a spiraling vortex as Nagisa could feel bubbles floating around him through his transparent body. He rotated his arms and hands around in a pattern of the breaststroke as pink ribbons of energy were unleashed from his body. He then donned a pair of golden cuffs and wristbands along with a jeweled headpiece and earrings.
He made a cartwheel flip as he donned his red-white vest, his neon-green head piece with a red-white band that attached to his head. Once he was back on his feet, he donned sashes of purple, and red fabrics that took care of his lower half of the anatomy.
Nagisa smiled with a giggle as he twirled around with the magical waters that danced with him side by side while the cries of a penguin could be heard in the background.
The newly transformed Suiei God was ready for action as a magical book of spells appeared in front of him and he grabbed it while taking a badass stance between him and the demons.
Kise stood in amazement while Nagisa made his introduction, "For swimming and bonds, I am the Suiei God of Breaststroke and Fun, Suiei Hazuki! As a fighter of my team, I will bring fun to the table!"
So it's really true, thought Kise, all of them do possess the forbidden magic!
"Now's the time to fight back!" shouted Gaardus, "Nagisa!"
He's really beautiful, thought Rei, I wonder what I will look like with my powers?
"ICY WATER CYCLONE!" chanted Nagisa as he blew a kiss that unleashed a chill in the air as the demons found themselves in puddles of cold water that instantly froze into ice moments later.
Nagisa snapped his fingers to use the water abilities and freeze the demons completely before shattering them into shards.
The people that witnessed this were stunned as some were already conflicted about the forbidden powers. Kise was sort of stuck in place as he knows that the people depend on him and the other Generation of Miracles. The mother of the baby arrived and thanked the blonde for saving her child.
Nagisacchi might have saved us, he thought, but now that the people saw me with him…they're gonna start rumors about our allegiance!
"Is something wrong?" asked Rei.
"Oh no!" replied Kise, making a false smile, "It's all good. We should get going now."
"Oi!" shouted one of the cops, "You there! The blonde and that dress!"
Another cop grabbed Nagisa's arm while the first one said, "What kind of magic was that?!"
"Stop!" shouted Kise as he stepped in the way.
"LEAVE HIM ALONE!" shouted Rei as he tried to get Nagisa back.
"L-Lord Kise!" gasped the police, "What's the meaning of this!?"
"The Princess Goddess has welcomed them in," he replied, handing over a scroll that Kuroko wrote earlier in order to permit the Magic Six to stay in town despite holding water magic.
"It's official orders from the Princess Goddess and approved by the Prime Minister," explained Kise, "And besides, he just saved lives here from those demons, did he not?"
"T-true but…" began the cop.
"My name is Nagisa Hazuki, what's yours?" asked the other blonde.
The first cop turned towards him and revealed, "Officer Kousuke Wakamatsu. My partner here is in training; his name is Ryou Sakurai."
"Welcome to Sportsbrooke, Nagisa," answered Ryou.
"Rei Ryugazaki," said the megane, introducing himself.
While the introductions were being made, a shadowy cloaked figure stood hidden behind the scenes, wondering how much longer it will take before the city will begin to suffer once more. More so, he had to take revenge to someone who is closer to him before obtaining what he wanted…
"Makoto…" he hissed silently.
~Episode 2 END~
~Episode 3 PV~
Makoto: So this is the History of Sportsbrooke?
Nagisa: All these books here for Rei-chan!
Gaardus: The fourth Suiei God is awakening…
Rin: But we still don't know why swimming was banned!?
Haruka: Maybe the water hates them?
Rei, Makoto, Rin: HARU!
Nagisa: HARU-CHAN!
Alexa: I got a bad feeling about this…
Aomine: Next Time, Free! Forbidden All Hard! The only one who can defeat me…is ME!