Episode 4: 心に闇! Darkness in the Hearts!
Rin stared at Daigo as he was already overwhelmed by this truth. His mind flashed back to when Gou found the family tree map with a blank space of names. Could it really be?
"From the moment you said your last name, I wanted to wait the right time," said Daigo, "I'm sorry…I shouldn't have been overwhelming…was I?"
"I…no…well a bit…yes. Father never told me he had a brother," replied Rin.
"I'm sure he's trying to spare both of you from a very painful history," he answered, "I…something happened between us long ago and I was sent to this reality. Seeing you all got here with help from that bird, I need to see him again…is he still alive?"
"Y-yes," said Rin.
"T-Toraichi…" smiled Daigo, feeling almost saddened by this, "Well I understand you guys can't leave this world but hopefully when you're all said and done, we'll make our way there, together."
Rin looked at the man's eyes as he continued, "I'm so sorry, it must have been tough living there."
"Well it's just been my friends and my sister," he replied, "Mother passed away when we were young but the kingdom loves us. Father is still alive but it's anytime now before he'll go too."
"I see," nodded Daigo.
"Yeah but now I have to find the others!" said Rin, "Rei, Nagisa, Alexa, and Makoto are not back at the palace…I'm worried something has happened to them and…"
"We'll find them, together," replied Dagio, "Because that's what family is for."
Hours Earlier: Visiting the Shop of the Mystics
Aomine and Kise led Gaardus, Makoto, Nagisa, Rei, and Alexa to the shop where they saw a young looking man but with an aura of an ancient being was busy cleaning up some old junk with a rag.
However, Alexa felt a bit nervous seeing this man who was once their swim instructor. This time, he felt a dark, eerie presence inside.
Gaardus flew up on one of the shelves to watch and analyze this scene.
Makoto held his hand with a smile of reassurance while Theagenes answered, "I've been expecting you...Magic Six. Though it appears turns to see the gang- that only four of you have showed up."
He chuckled and magically turned around with a flare of his outfits; he wore black leather based clothing with a dark red leather vest jacket.
"So you've known about them too?" asked Aomine.
"Well of course," he chuckled, "I can see things in the near future like your beloved Princess Kuroko!"
"Is it really you though?" asked Makoto, "You were not…"
"Oh I simply used a disguise potion to hide myself," replied Theagenes, "Mako-chan…along with my greatest investment in teaching athletes, I also specialize in some various magic."
Nagisa looked over to a wall of books while Rei shifted his glasses a moment.
"We are here for some questions," said Makoto.
"And answers ye shall have…for a price," chuckled Theagenes.
"Please let us cover their payment," said Kise, "They just got here and they haven't done much to…"
"Hmmm if it accepts the limits then yes," he replied.
"I need to speak to you, alone," said Makoto.
"My oh my, seems that you're afraid about something," teased Theagenes.
"Afraid?" asked Nagisa, "Mako-chan?"
"Never mind that," he answered as Theagenes beckoned him to come to the back of the shop along with Alexa.
Once the three were settled in, Theagenes said, "Alexa, I need to give a diagnosis but I need you in sleep for me to check on you."
He flicked his fingers and Alexa collapsed down to sleep while Makoto caught him. Theagenes took out his silver orb with his name on it, using some dark magic to detect inside of Alexa.
It was only a few seconds when Theagenes found what he needed; a black mark inside of Alexa's heart. Neither of them noticed that Gaardus was nearby watching this scene.
"My, my, quite a dreadful story you got there," he said, "All because of a moment's hesitation and rules during the purification rite?"
Makoto kept silent while the other man continued, "This Death Mark is indeed created by the Dark One…Chaos…it was placed onto Alexa as a ticking-bomb to when he turns 21 years old."
The Mark of Death, thought Gaardus, implanted all those years ago…
"He's 20 and we're running out of time," said Makoto.
"Well I can't remove the mark because it's a very strong dark magic and not even true love's kiss in a fairy tale can save him," he replied.
Makoto's eyes widened a little, shocked to hear this news as he answered, "But...there HAS TO BE A WAY! HE'S IMPORTANT FOR EVERYONE IN OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS! HOW COULD YOU NOT ABE ABLE TO REMOVE THIS!?"
"I'm sorry Makoto…but the only possible way for him to survive…is to take your own life and exchange it," said Theagenes.
Theagenes snapped his fingers and summoned an hourglass charm built into a necklace, "This is the timer left of your beloved. You'll be able to use it to track down. However, this object is also a clue to your past."
"Our past?" asked Makoto.
"It will help you figure out why things the way they are here…with swimming being banned here and how the people are up against those with water magic," he explained, "You men have to find Prince Julius and he is indeed…his remains are hidden in this town."
Makoto gasped and asked, "Y-you knew about him!?"
"Indeed I have long ago…" said Theagenes, "I met them all and he entrusted me to keep this safe…until it was time to return it."
Makoto took the object and looked at the sands slowly going down to the bottom of the glass. There was still at least (according to this) plenty of time but his heat was already beating with fear.
Alexa woke up after a few moments and Theagenes answered, "Well it's time that you both be on your way. I'm sure we'll meet again soon before you know it."
The two made their way back out where they saw Nagisa looking at through the books with Rei while Aomine and Kise stood by. Gaardus also snuck his way back, flying around like the curious bird.
"Anything?" asked Aomine.
"Not much, but…we know one thing…" said Makoto.
"And that is?" asked Kise.
"Um…well…let's say I don't have much time left," he answered.
"Mako-chan?" asked Nagisa.
"What's the matter?" asked Rei.
"Come on, we have to find the others," he said as they left the building while Makoto dragged Alexa, running as fast as possible.
West Sportsbrooke
On the other side of town, in a series of apartments and town homes where many small families and elderly folks resided, Kisumi stared out from the window, looking at the orange glow of the sunset.
"Brother, when can we go back?" asked Hayato.
"We can't," he replied, "Mother and father aren't around anymore."
"Y-you lying!" cried Hayato, "You dragged us into this place! I know we can get back home!"
"I'm just trying to protect you," he answered, rubbing the tears off, "It's for our own good. Look, I know it's difficult for you to understand but we have to stay here as long as we can. Maybe when I make us enough money, we'll find some way to return."
It was only a few months for him and his brother, struggling to make their ends meet in this new town. He has got into basketball training as well as becoming to work with the professionals in downtown. As for Hayato, he was given his primary youthful education for the time being.
Hayato ran back to his bedroom to cry some more while Kisumi silently wept to himself. If only he could've stayed back home, he would but back then…all what it was…fear…anxiety…
The phone rang after a moment. He went up to answer it.
"Hello?"
"Kisumiiii!" replied the voice on the phone.
"Alexandra!" said Kisumi, smiling, "How are you?"
"Doing fine. Hey did um Daigo come to your apartment?" she asked.
"Afraid not. Why?" he replied.
"Well he was out with me earlier for shopping on supplies for the farm but he like disappeared. That crazy old man…I don't know what he's thinking," she sighed, "I think he's up to something."
"Up to something?" he asked.
"Well we had some company over earlier and they were from another world called Aqua Duniya," she explained.
Kisumi gasped to himself but tried to stay calm over the phone, "Who are these people?"
"It was a group of young men," she answered, "Haruka, Makoto, Rin, Nagisa, Rei, and Alexa."
"I see," he said, his eyes narrowing, "Well I have to check up on Hayato, I think he's crying again. Talk to you later."
He dropped the phone as he was getting more nervous by the minute…
"What are they doing here?" he asked to himself, "Don't they realize how much danger they are gonna be in? Their powers are illegal here…they're gonna be asking for a death wish!"
He walked over to see Hayato silently in his bed, looking at a children's book. Kisumi wasn't sure how he was going to deal with this. If the Magic Six were to find him here…
They're going to try to take us back, he thought, I don't belong there…and neither does he. I can't let him be in danger ever again!
Nightfall:
Rin and Daigo raced their way through the streets while the former used his x-ray vision to find the others. Daigo on the other hand was fascinated by the former's powers and abilities to use. In a way it was almost like…
Just like Toraichi's, he thought, the ability to see things that are otherwise impossible by the naked eye or microscopic tools.
Rin stopped for a moment to focus on his power more carefully; finally he saw them along with Gaardus! The two made their way to the Sportsbrooke Eco-Park where they saw the others watching Aomine and Kise playing basketball. Alexa was petting Gaardus's wings.
"OI!" shouted Rin.
The others turned to see him and smiled.
"Rin!" shouted Makoto, Rei and Alexa.
"Rin-chan!" shouted Nagisa.
"Where the hell have you guys been?" replied Rin, "We've been waiting for you all at the palace!"
"Sorry!" said Nagisa, "We had an encounter with some strange dark man."
"Dark man?" asked Rin.
"The same one who taught us how to swim. He's from this world," said Rei.
"T-Theagenes!?" gasped Rin.
"Yeah, he was giving Alexa a diagnosis of some sort but Mako-chan is being mean and not telling us what he's doing," sighed the blonde.
Rin looked at Makoto's eyes, wondering to know what result he got. However, one glimpse of them was a sign that it was another dead end.
"Well we have to get going," said Rin, "Kuro and the others are going to have a special feast for us."
"YAYZ! I'm starving!" cheered Nagisa.
Rei chuckled while he analyzed Rin's facial expression towards Makoto. It was like as Rin and Makoto knew something about Alexa, something important; either good or ill.
"Yeah I'm getting hungry too," said Rei.
"I can't wait to see what feast they'll have tonight!" agreed Alexa.
They began their way back when Kisumi watched them from afar. He had to see for himself and sure enough, they were in town. He had to find means to cover his tracks before they tried to find him and bring him and Hayato home.
The Endless Feast Hall – Miracle Palace
The Magic Six sat together at the majestic hall where a bunch of chefs, waiters and butlers presented a wonderful display for them; a massive sculpture of ice shaped into them, a delicious 5 course meal, lots of great music and other royalty people who work as staff for the palace.
They were all dressed up in fancy suits while the women wore dresses of white or various bright colors. Kuroko made sure that Momoi and Riko were included for this after finding out his true identity.
"I'm soooo glad to see you again!" smiled Momoi, "You should spend more time outside!"
Riko chuckled as the Magic Six watched the dance going on before them. Nagisa got up and grabbed Rei's hands saying, "Come on Rei-chan, I wanna dance too!"
"N-Nagisa-kun," blushed Rei.
"It's alright," said Akashi, "Everyone dances together, no matter the gender. We accept and welcome all relationships."
The two got on the dance floor as the others chuckled happily.
"In a way, this is like home," smiled Rin, "We danced all the time too."
"Yeah," agreed Haruka, "Maybe at this rate, we can figure out how to get swimming legal again."
"Someone's in a hurry to strip for water," he chuckled.
Alexa got up and turned to Makoto, asking for his hand, "Please? I want to dance too!"
"Alright," smiled Makoto as they took their way to the dance floor.
"Come on Haru!" said Rin, dragging Haruka in as well.
"Awwww…Nagisacchi, Alexacchi, Harukacchi, Makotocchi, Reicchi, and Rincchi are so cute when they dance!" smiled Kise.
"It's like…the flow of water is with them always," agreed Kuroko.
Kagami smiled in agreement as well. Aomine grabbed Kise and Kagami saying, "Come on! Let's have our own gig!"
"I'll be there in a few," said Kuroko when he turned to Akashi.
"Have you seen Midorima?" asked Akashi.
"Afraid not," he answered, "He's been acting strange as of late. I can see it through the temple…"
"Did you find another prophecy?" asked the red-haired.
"…I did," he said silently, "But it's a very dark one…and I don't understand the complete details of it."
The Temple of Time
In the heart of the palace was a chamber where prophecies can be read from the past, present and future. An ancient technology is used by collecting the paths of the stars before converting them to translations of an extinct lanaguge that takes hours to convert to the modern language.
Kuroko brought Akashi here where he had a scroll on the marble altar where it was written:
A Basket and A ball
Shall join and make the call
That will create an era of magic
But one will suffer a horrific tragic
No one will know the fate
Of what is to be taken by bait
Only he will see the one of hate
Can they be the one to change the wait
It is one's duty to shoot the hoop
So it can get past through the loop
Or else it will take it all back
Of someone who is nothing but alack
Six Heroes will emerge from this sack
Each with unique of his (or her) power
Taking this to the darkest black
The Final Star will ignite the light of the tower
"And this is all what you've got so far?" asked Akashi.
"Most of it yes," replied Kuroko, "But I wonder if part of the prophecy has to do with Midorima."
"What makes you think that?" he asked.
"Because I had a dream of long ago…I saw a baby whose face was like his…who was abandoned by his mother when the world shattered away," explained the sky-blue haired boy, "It's likely that Midorima is somehow jealous of Makoto…but I do not know why."
"I can answer that question," said a voice.
The two turned to see Takao in human form standing at the entrance.
"You…" said Akashi, narrowing his eyes.
"It's alright, I'm not here for a fight," shrugged Takao, "However, if I were you guys, I'd keep the Magic Six away from Shin-chan."
"What is he after?" asked Kuroko.
"Spit it out in 10 seconds or I will get my scissors out to…" began Akashi.
"Calm down, I get it!" sighed Takao, "Midorima is after revenge to one of them…the Magic Six. I don't know which one but it's clear that he plans to attack one of them."
"Who?" asked Kuroko and Akashi.
"No idea, but I have a hypothesis on who it might be," he said, "He's after the one who shares the same mother as him."
The two gasped as Kuroko asked, "Are you saying that one of them is…?"
"Yes," he answered.
It was around 1 AM or so when the party finally calmed down. The Magic Six were brought to their rooms with Kise, Aomine, and Murasakibara.
Rei and Nagisa were already snuggling in bed while Rin was hogging his pillow while Haruka tried to stay as warm as possible to Rin's body.
Makoto on the other hand couldn't sleep nor snuggle with Alexa. The whole day's trip was exhausting and also he was heartbroken terribly about not being able to protect him long ago.
I have to do this, he thought, taking out a small pinpoint needle that contained a poison inside, I won't let Alexa die…I know I don't want to die either…but he's important for the kingdom…
He silently made his way through the halls and climbed up a few stairs to get to the upper balcony of the fortress. He saw the endless stars as he briefly smiled back into those childhood days. Then his mind flashed back to the sixth night when something weird happened to Alexa that was a massive warning sign he should've taken care of.
Makoto sat down on a marble bench and closed his eyes for a moment before looking at the needle again.
"I'm sorry Alexa," muttered Makoto as he looked up to the night skies, "But your life is more important and I have to give you mine so you can be king."
He looked at the needle and was a bit unsure if he should inject this or not but he had to do this in order to break the curse inside.
"You aren't even going to say hello first? Not quite the welcoming I was expecting," said a voice, standing nearby.
Makoto turned his head slowly to see him while the other tall megane continued, "What does a basketball witch have to do to get your attention?"
Midorima snapped his fingers, obtaining the needle into his hands while Makoto was starting to get annoyed.
"What's the matter? Has life got you down?" asked Midorima.
"None of your business," replied Makoto darkly.
"You really don't know who I am do you?" asked the green-haired boy.
"I know exactly who you are," snarled Makoto, "Midorima of the Generation of Miracles."
Midorima chuckled and said, "Is that all?"
"I'm not that interested," said Makoto trying to reach for the needle.
Midorima walked away to keep the needle to himself, saying, "Please. Allow me to introduce myself. You can call me Shintarou. Though most call me Shin-chan."
"Something Nagisa would say," muttered Makoto, "And why are you wearing one of my outfits?"
"Hmmm, I must say, this outfit of yours is pretty good quality, better than the clothes we have here," said Midorima, "I had to increase up the bust a bit but…looks better on me, don't you think?"
"I think you should've stayed with your team," replied Makoto, annoyed.
"You'll have your shit back, okay? I was just trying it on for size," sighed Midorima, pushing up his glasses, "Besides I've seen everything worth seeing."
"See what?" asked Makoto.
"The palace…the gardens…the water, the people," smiled Midorima, "And your crypt of your mother's. It was a one-time round trip I went but it was all worth it."
"J-just how the hell did you get to Aqua Duniya?" asked Makoto, getting suspicious.
"A while back…before you and the others left there," said Midorima, "I paid a price to Theagenes."
"And how did you even get into the crypt? No one is that POWERFUL enough to enter there except for the royalty," replied Makoto.
"Misa never really told you," answered Midorima.
"Told me what?" asked Makoto.
"The truth about us…Makoto," he replied.
"W-what are you talking about? And how did you know about my mother?" questioned Makoto, trying to not feel too nervous.
The green-hair boy moved in closer to Makoto as they were face to face with each other.
"Same way you do…I'm your brother," said Midorima.
Makoto looked at Midorima with disbelief, wondering how the heck this was even possible.
"Actually half-brother, but you know…details, details," said Midorima, shrugging his shoulders.
"That's…not possible. You're…green," replied Makoto.
"And you're rude," sighed the other megane, walking around in circles, "Misa had me first long before the world shattered. But of course, she wanted to get her hands onto the water gods knowing their true power was stronger than anyone's."
Midorima stopped and continued, "You know I'm telling the truth. How else was I able to get to the crypt? Our mother…she gave me up but you…you she kept. You she gave everything!"
"Everything that was prophesized," said Makoto, "For the team that we are; it was prophesized that the six of us would be together. And for your information, you ought to be glad you're not in the same fate as we have."
"Enough with the martyr complex Makoto. How long are you going to believe in that silly legend?" sighed Midorima, "Try living in Olympia after the world collapsed…where no one thought you're good enough, not even your mother. However, our paths have been crossed by one single entity.
"Theagenes."
Makoto crossed his leg over replying, "So you really knew Theagenes…"
"You thought you guys were his ONLY students? He taught other athletes on this world and has crossover to other realms with his contract magic," said Midorima.
"Let me guess, you're here because you want to get revenge?" asked Makoto.
"More than that," he answered, "However, despite my short comings, I made something of MYSELF dear. And I didn't need Misa…or Theagenes."
"Well it's too bad she's not around to see how well you turned out," replied Makoto, "She's already dead."
Midorima sniff before he made a soft cough while he kept a hold of his lucky frog item, saying, "That's alright. You're the only one I need alive."
"Really? Why's that?" asked Makoto.
"Because I'm going to take everything away from you," said Midorima.
"Too late…the one I love the most is gone…spiritually," he answered.
"Oh please you haven't lost ANYTHING yet," snarled the megane.
"So you are going to kill me," guessed Makoto.
"No, it's too easy. To get what I really want, I need you to suffer," replied Midorima, walking around in a circle, "You see. The dreams that I have in my mind are being realized of you…well that's a fate even worse that just death alone."
Makoto stared deeply into Midorima's dark ebon eyes and his face narrowed down with a bit of anger yet determination to defeat this man before him, replying, "Go ahead…bring it on…Midori-baka."
"You bet I will," smirked Midorima as he grew out his dark wings, "See you soon, bro."
Makoto watched Midorima as the latter flew away with a sickly laughter in the wind.
"So it seems," he muttered.
Next Morning: Miracle Palace
Alexa woke up and felt Makoto hugging behind him. He smiled and turned to give him a kiss on the head. Makoto opened his eyes and smiled in reply.
"Morning," they both exchanged.
"Did you sleep well?" asked Alexa.
"Yeah, I'm fine," said Makoto, "Sounds like you rested up nicely."
"Mako-chan! Alexa-chan!" yawned Nagisa, "I can smell the breakfast!"
"Already?" asked Rei, still trying to sleep in, "But it does smell good…"
Rin was already staring out at the balcony while Haruka just got out of the bathroom from his early morning bath in his bathing suit.
Gaardus lifted his head up to see Akashi who said, "Morning everyone. We are going to have breakfast shortly."
The Magic Six and Gaardus arrived in a smaller chamber where the Generation of Miracles (including Midorima) were already eating away. Nagisa barged in for some sausage and pancakes while Haruka looked for some mackerel but ended up with something else instead.
Daigo was also present which caused a sense of awkwardness to Rin and Makoto as Midorima also sat next to Daigo.
Alexa sensed something dark about those two but once again kept it to himself, worried that it would bring conflict to the table.
Afterwards, the Magic Six decided to go back to Kagami's loft as Makoto and Rin already exchanged concerning looks. Once they were safely back with Kagami, they sat down at the table.
"So what's going on?" asked Kagami, "Both of you seem a bit…worried?"
After a moment, Rin finally answered, "Who is Daigo? Why does he believe that he is a brother to my father?"
"I wish I knew," said Kagami, pouring some coffee into the cups, "Midorima has been acting dark too as of late. I know something's not right in either of them."
"I sense it too," replied Alexa, "As the Suiei God of Understanding and Destiny, I tend to feel people's emotions."
"Interesting," answered Kagami, "I too possess that ability or at least quite similar."
"Really?" asked Rei, fascinated.
"Not sure how or what but when I joined with Kuroko and the senpais last year to stop the darkness, I was able to pin-point their emotions and did what I could to turn their feelings back around," he explained.
"M-midorima...he's after me," said Makoto.
"EHHH!?" gasped the others.
"He says that he's going to take everything away from me," he replied.
"And how does he wish to accomplish that?" asked Kagami.
"I don't know either," sighed Makoto, "But I didn't think my mom would fall I love in basketball."
"W-wait a second, what are you saying?" asked Haruka.
"Midorima believes that I am his long-lost half-brother," revealed Makoto, "But there is no proof that I am or not."
"So that's why he's been treating you all like crap," said Kagami, "To see if you are the one."
"But what makes him think that his mannerism is gonna help him in the long run?" asked Rei, "Not to mention how he acted quite phony today during breakfast!"
"Look, I'm sorry he's treating you all this way," replied Kagami, "But I don't know what's causing him. I'll try my best to investigate him…but I have a bad feeling it will not be easy."
"Well I guess we'll have to figure it out sooner or later," said Rin.
"Makoto, are you really going to be alright?" asked Alexa.
"Of course I will," he smiled, "This is just an obstacle that we're going to have to deal with."
"Right, for the team!" agreed Rin as they all smiled in hope.
Back at the Palace…
"A b-basketball match? Against them?" asked Kuroko.
"Why yes indeed," said Midorima, "I know I've been acting quite unpleasant for the last few days but I can make it up to them…with a match. I want them to see our talents and how we do things in town."
"I don't know," replied Kuroko, "This isn't like you."
"What? Of course it is," he chuckled, "Maybe I was just being a bit too soft the last several months but I want to fight a good match with someone. I'll even get some sponsors from GMS and their broadcasting station and…"
"If they are going to play though, they need to be trained," said Kuroko, "And the only person I know who can do that…"
Shigino Apartment, West Sportsbrooke
Kisumi turned on the TV where he watched the Good Morning Sportsbrooke going on right now as the news opened today's program.
"Live in Railroad Square, this is Good Morning Sportsbrooke, co-hosting Eiji Shirogane, Masako Araki, Genta Takeuchi, Masaaki Nakatani & Kagetora Aida," spoke the announcer as people crowded around there happily and waving out to the cameras.
Seconds later, the news room was shown with the group of people ready to go.
"And we welcome another Good Morning in Sportsbrooke," said Yoshinori Susa, "We hope you had a wonderful festival going on in the last few days!"
"Just in, we got news from the eastern district that a few more spotting of demons were around but they were defeated by a mysterious man who wore strange clothing outfits but used a rare kind of magic to defeat them," reported Eiji Shirogane.
"The mysterious man is yet to be known but there was a photoshoot of him along with one of the Generation of Miracles' Atsushi Murasakibara," said Masako Araki, "The reporters will be going to interview him about this incidence in hopes to make further investigation about these new visitors."
They're here, thought Kisumi, in town…
Hayato walked out of the room as he could smell the breakfast at least. He opened the door to the frige and said, "Onii-chan, there's no more milk left!"
"Oh shoot! I'm sorry," he answered, "Let's go buy some then, okay?"
"Okay!" smiled Hayato.
Kagami led the Magic Six to the western area of the city where there is a farmer's market that goes on every Wednesdays. Unlike most of the city, this area was a bit less beautiful and a bit more beat up looking in some areas. Graffiti in both artsy and explicit content could be seen on some of the brick walls while old abandoned buildings had who knew what inside.
The only part that was decent was the farmer's market in which most of the people buy their food, beverages and other needs.
"This is one of the more poverty areas," said Kagami, "But the city are going to put some projects planned here in order to get this area back from the dump."
Rin looked at a group of little kids walking with a couple of adults while a group of teenagers were playing rap and basketball.
"Do people play basketball here too?" asked Nagisa, "Tai-chan?"
"Many of them yes," said Kagami, "They want to aspire and become the best. That goes for anyone who plays of course. However, I tend to stay away from these guys unless they're asking for a match."
"Have you?" asked Makoto.
"Yeah, I sometimes get into some fights with them but in the end, they are fearful of us," he shrugged, pointing to an argument going on with two boys at a street ball court.
"Yo mamma ain't shit!" said one of the random boys as he confronted his opponent.
"Keep yo ass out of this mess!" replied the other, "Fucking tramp!"
Nagisa watched the two getting into a fist fight but Rei dragged him away, keeping him close to him as possible.
"It's alright, as long as you are in groups, you'll be okay. Unless of course they start to gang up," said Kagami.
Gaardus flew high above and noticed a few sightings going on. He saw the market but he then saw something down by the market. Carefully, he used his vision and saw Kisumi and Hayato buying some milk! He screeched and soared his way back down.
"What's the matter Gaardus?" asked Rin as soon as the bird landed.
"I saw them! Kisumi and a younger brother of his!" said Gaardus.
"Y-you did?!" gasped Makoto.
"Where are they now?" asked Nagisa.
"At the market," replied the Phoenix, "But I'm going to investigate this further, you guys go on to the store as if nothing happened."
Flashback: Aqua Duniya…Long Ago…before the Birth of the Magic Six…
In this era of history, Hawakoto welcomed the Three Matsuoka Brothers along with Noubanga, Tatsuhisa, Tsubasa, Daisuke, and Magnus. These fine boys would grow up to become the Six Kings of Hawakoto and later married their wives.
The kite soared high in the skies as three boys ran through the fields of the Jangwa Meadows. They were cheerful, energetic, and loving for their families, friends, and the kingdom. .
Mamoru, Toraichi and Daigo laughed and chased after the kite, hoping it would land soon somewhere after it flew out of their hands earlier.
"Daigo, hurry!" shouted Mamoru, "It flew this way!"
The brothers laughed happily and held hands with each other, following the kite down to the shoreline. Worried that it was going to fly away, the brothers were hesitant to decide to keep going or not.
A gust of wind knocked the kite down to the oncoming waters, washing it upon shore. The rocks sort of damaged the kite a little.
"Aww it's ruined," sighed Daigo.
"No it's not," said Toraichi, taking out the ribbons, "These are still useful for something. Maybe mamma might make with these."
"Probably but what would she make with three simple ribbons?" shrugged Mamoru.
"Who knows? Maybe if we…UAHHHHH!" shouted Toraichi.
"What's the matter!?" gasped Mamoru and Daigo.
The two turned to see a skeleton with some sort of clothing still somewhat intact.
"Dearest heavens," gasped Mamoru.
They rushed up to see and saw nothing but the remains of a person in bare bones. No flesh or anything was left behind.
"Well that's a bummer," said Toraichi, "This person must have been fighting to survive."
Daigo was about to say something when he saw a strange object inside the skirt pocket. Curious, he touched it when the skeleton glowed, prompting them to jump back.
The skeleton floated up and grew back its flesh, hair, eyes, face and the clothes were fixed. The man opened his eyes and looked at them, "Who among you is a monster?"
"W-what?!" gasped the trio.
"What did you say?!" growled Toraichi.
The man grabbed Toraichi and Mamoru, saying, "Both of you are going to come with me!"
"LEAVE MY BROTHERS ALONE!" shouted Daigo, charging over.
The man kicked Daigo back and the boy's hands glowed orange, blasting an explosion of energy. The figure turned to see Dagio and shouted, "So you are THE monster!"
The energy struck the man, turning it back into skeleton and ashes. Toraichi and Mamoru turned to Daigo with shocking expressions.
"B-brother?" asked Toraichi.
"What's going on!?" asked Mamoru.
"I-I don't know…th-that was creepy," said Daigo, "But stay back! I don't want to hurt you!"
Mamoru grabbed Daigo's hand and turned to Toraichi with a nod as they grouped together.
"You saved our lives," smiled Toraichi.
"That freak called me a monster!" replied Daigo.
"No worries, it was the monster, not you," replied Mamoru, "Whatever you did, you had no choice."
"But I had no control over this magic," said Daigo, "I don't 'know what to do if it happens again. I…I….how am I going to be one of the six kings of this land if they find out about…"
"They won't find out,' said Mamoru, gripping his hand tighter, "It'll be our secret. No one HAS to know. We'll help you find a way to control it."
"Y-you guys will help me?" asked Daigo.
"We're your brothers," replied Toraichi, "Of course we will help. We'll never look at you as a monster."
"That's right Torai," smiled Mamoru, picking up the ribbons and split it into three pieces, "Here. Everyone take a ribbon. This is our brotherly pact, as long as we possess these, we'll always be there for each other."
"Never alone," chuckled Toraichi as Daigo finally smiled.
The years went by for the brothers and the other families as they all underwent purification. However, the waters acted strange to Daigo in fear of his mysterious powers.
Kyou sat down at her desk, trying to analyze through some ancient text to why the waters didn't become one with Daigo. She knew about Olympia and other realms but none of it made any sense to her elder son's power.
She flipped to a page where she saw a strange looking name: Theagenes.
"Honey, what's the matter?" asked Freyr.
Kyou turned to see him and answered, "Just reading."
"You're worried about him, aren't you?" he asked.
"Daigo is the first in line to rule the family sector and will become part of the six kings," she answered, "I don't know why the water isn't accepting him."
"I wish I knew, but not even the nurses can figure out his issue," he replied.
"That's why…I'm going to do something," she said, "Something a bit…daring."
"What are you going to do?" he asked.
"…I need to speak to that man, the one who is known as the fairest athlete and magician," said Kyou, "I've heard rumors that he's from the land of the endless sand and his name is…Theagenes."
Several Years Later…
It was the 50th birthday of Freyr and the entire kingdom was undergoing a grand festival. The royal families and their princes and several of their fiancées.
Tsubasa danced happily with Rika while Daisuke and Mana shared crazy stories to Tatsuhisa and Misa. However, Magnus was busy introducing Nobunaga to his friend Emi.
Back up in the bedroom of the Matsuoka Sector, Daigo watched his brothers getting ready for the party.
"Both of you are really handsome," said Daigo, sitting on his bed with a smile.
"Oh get up why don't you!" replied Mamoru, "Come on, join us! The others are waiting too!"
"It's better this way," answered Daigo.
"Father will be so pleased if you were with us, he's only going to be 50 once," said Mamoru.
"You know I'd wish him a happy birthday but, it's better that I just disappear from this realm," replied Daigo, "Before more people get suspicious."
"Nonsense!" said Mamoru, "How many more years are you going to do this?"
"As many as I am afflicted," shrugged Daigo.
"You're not afflicted," smiled Mamoru, "We should be UNITED. Besides, don't you wanna dance and flirt with the girls? Besides, you're going to be one day king soon."
"He's right, it's not good for the future king to be so elusive," agreed Toraichi.
"Don't always think the worst," said Mamoru.
"I'm thinking the best…for both of you," answered Daigo, "Now go and meet your fiancée; I'll be waiting."
The three chuckled for a moment together before the two brothers left Daigo alone.
Present Day: Aqua Duniya
Gou sat down on the fields with the others as she opened the book to read a few notes while Sousuke, Nitori, and Awlida stood on guard. Momotarou, and Seijuurou assisted Gou in reading the information as well.
"And you're sure that your father, his royal majesty is hiding something?" asked Sei.
"I saw a man who shared the same blood as father-sama…and he's with Rin right now," she answered.
Momotarou flipped the pages of a diary when he saw something that seemed a bit tragic, "Hey, Gou-san, you might want to read this."
He handed the note over to her and read a certain day. Her eyes widened in horror as it was written:
I feel terrible for what I have done, but I had no choice. Daigo…my eldest brother…killed the middle one, Mamoru with his time-based powers. However, I have set a deal with a dark sorcerer to take the memories of my two brothers away from the kingdom and hid them somewhere safe. No one cannot read this note, I cannot even write down the extent of the details…but…I exiled onii-chan to another realm, one of which he must not leave.
In doing so, I ascended the throne and married Akeno (originally was meant for Daigo but because of what I've done, I have sinned and forsaken my brothers) and moved on, starting our own family.
Forgive me…Mamoru…Daigo…
Gou's eyes was in a state of shock and was feeling heavy in her heart. Did father really do this?!
Daigo's powers are time…one of which he can accelerate or decelerate age. Either way, this power is not controlled and the victim of this will die. I had to keep the kingdom safe and did what I had to do…but was it the right thing? I let fear take over me and it was perhaps a regretful mistake I've ever done.
"O-onii-chan," she breathed heavily.
Flashback 2: Generation of Miracles – Kise's Arrival to Sportsbrooke (6 years ago)
Kise laughed happily as he got in finally, freedom from his family's circus messy business. While he was also a bit nervous on what he could find, he knew that it had to be better than the life he was previously living in.
His escape from his family was rather an interesting one; he was busy taking care of the tigers when he felt suddenly energetic as if he had all the speed in the world. He always believed in magic but not the type that the circus used; in fact it was rather abuse.
But after finding out that he ran as fast as a tiger, he had to plan out the safest time to leave or else they would certainly do all in their power to find him. Sure enough, by evening, the parents were all drunk with their friends which enabled him to go to the pen where the tiger was sleeping. He gently pet the creature, worried that it would wake up but it turned out that the cat was weakening in health.
However, he had no time to shed tears as much as he wanted to; he had to escape this abusive, immoral life.
Departing, he made his way through the desert at high speeds, taking a few days for him before he ran into the Golden Grain fields where he met Alexandra and Katsunori who helped him to get to Sportsbrooke through with a map.
"Now then," he chuckled, "It's show time!"
Kise raced through the high speeds down the hill and heading to town, hoping to not crash into anything. After getting to the downtown district, he stopped running and looked around. Clearly the city was nice and all but he saw lots of construction going on as well, expanding the city corp limits.
He turned his head around and saw a group of students heading to a school. He read the sign; Teikou Junior High…
Kise turned to see two blue-haired boys; one sky-blue and the other ocean-blue heading to the academy. He decided to walk up to them asking, "Excuse me but do you both go here?"
"Yes," said Kuroko.
"Who are you?" asked Aomine.
"I'm Kise, Kise Ryouta!" smiled the blonde, "I just got here into town and I don't know where to go for…"
"Meet us afterwards," said Kuroko, pointing to the playground, "There, afternoon when the bell rings us out."
Hours Later
Kise sat on the swings for a while, feeling bored and annoyed. He observed some butterflies going around and a few birds. He tried to mimic them but it was a fail.
Finally the bell rang and a few minutes later, Kuroko and Aomine arrived to him.
"Ah hey!" smiled Kise, "So where do you guys live?"
"Before we discuss about that, we want you to meet someone," replied Aomine.
The two brought Kise to Theagenes as the magician smiled to see the blonde finally in town.
"What's going on?" asked Kise.
"Your arrival to this city is inevitable," explained Theagenes, "In fact, I told Kuroko ever since Aomine arrived is that there's going to be some guys that will come from faraway lands."
"Faraway lands?" asked Kise.
"Yeah," replied Aomine, "Theagenes keeps saying that we'll have a team for basketball before this year is over."
"Basketball? REALLY!?" smiled the blonde, "I've heard about that sport but I never had the chance to try it out!"
"Well now you will," said Kuroko, "We want to see what powers you have."
"Oh you bet!" chuckled Kise, "I can't wait!"
During practice, Kuroko and Aomine were amazed at how fast Kise was learning; normally it would take a bit of time to get into the specific passing, shooting and other techniques.
"How did you learn so quickly?" asked Aomine.
"Well um…I'm not sure…but ever since I ran away from home…well," began the blonde, "You see, we had this tiger and I touched it one day just to pet it and all of a sudden, I felt so energized that I could run for miles."
Interesting, thought Kuroko.
It's almost as if he can copy things, thought Aomine.
"Is something the matter?" asked Kise.
The two of them shook their heads.
"No it's perfect!" said Kuroko, "In fact, if your powers do copy, it'd be great for a backup plan of some sort!"
"Yeah, I like that idea already!" replied Kise, "Thank you guys so much Kurokocchi, Aominecchi!"
Three of the Generation of Miracles…now enrolled…three have yet to come…what will destiny lead them this time?
Present Time:
The Magic Six arrived at the markets finally where the people were going about their ways. Already the temperature was getting warm out here.
"So what should we get?" asked Rin, looking at some of the strange merchandise.
"It's best that you don't," said Kagami, "We don't know if any of the foods here are legit or if they expired or worse, may be contaminated."
Nagisa was tempted to try out the sweets but Rei pulled him back saying, "We don't know what's in them."
"Here's a tip," whispered Kagami, "Look for the Seal of Sportsbrooke on the products, and you'll know that it's safe to buy."
They nodded and went to search around in pairs; Makoto & Alexa, Haruka & Rin, and Rei & Nagisa. Kagami stood nearby and kept an eye on them while Gaardus flew above, screeching away.
Alexa walked over to a set of dolls which one of them reminded him of Sergi back home. He looked for the seal which he did see on the tags.
"Doesn't this look nice?" asked Alexa.
"Yeah it's cute," said Makoto.
Alexa was about to purchase it when Makoto turned his head and saw Kisumi standing by a vendor before realizing that they were nearby.
"Wait here," said Makoto.
"Makoto?" he asked but the taller man was already on the move.
Kisumi turned around and saw Makoto standing several feet away from him as the two stared at each other; one pair of eyes was stunned and the other in a bit of anger.
"Makoto…"
"Kisumi…"
~Episode 4 END~
~Episode 5 PV~
Makoto: I thought you've been dead or something!
Kisumi: *chuckles* Nah, I just wanted to start a new chapter with Hayato.
Makoto: Then why is your brother unhappy? What happened back then?!
Kisumi: It's too complicated...
Rei: I totally forgot how his name was a bit suggestive...
Rin: Yeah it's like Kiss Me!
Nagisa: Kiss me Rei-chan!
Rei: NAGISAAAA! *embarassed*
Alexa: Wow you guys...
Atsushi: Next Time, Free! I'd Never thought we'd meet here, it's beginning now...water vs. basketball!