~12 Fr: Extraterrestrial Senshi
"The Magic Six must know that the key to their survival lies in the Compendium but they must have the right kind of knowledge to use it properly that YOU hold to be able to use it" – Jadwiga, VotMS Book 3: Eternal Promise
Storyline A: Flashback, Unknown Time Ago
Camelot, sometime after the creation of the Mizu Gods of Gen 1.0
With major success and news upon the creation of the Mizu Gods and their stories of creating descendants, an important meeting was scheduled among the team authors. However, it was also a very dangerous period of time when the Witches of the Adversary were on strike and began doing several sacrifices to disrupt the stories to imbalance.
In spite of this, several new Mahotsukai authors were toured and commissioned to take the legacy of these great creations and put them in a new spin. Several rules and definitions were established including:
Each planet will only require 1 Mizu God and 1 Defender (later known as the Swimming Guardian) instead of 5 like Earth.
Up to 100 of these defenders may exist in a single galaxy. Some will use the pattern of the galactical arms of space to scatter as appropriate.
Each Defender will have its own castle base where they will be provided with limitless resource as long as the planet and the Mizu God remains alive.
The Price of Magic applies here like any other realities created. It is the will of Chaos, Cosmos, and Kronos.
At a time of crisis beyond the assistance of the author, a single defender can become the Greatest Light if that individual has gone through a phase of darkness and a phase of light. There can be multiple Greatest Lights in a single timeline (i.e. one from an era X years ago, and the current one ongoing) but not in the same moment.
These establishments were then approved by Cosmos (who was still alive at the time but cursed within the tree) who wanted to use the fifth rule if only Chaos finds the ultimate host who will threaten the Omniverse by tearing the edge apart.
One forbidden rule was hidden from the public, but it was based on a warning. Anyone or anything that gets past this "wall", the odds of returning to their homeland were next to impossible due to the physics being stronger and more warped than the speed of light. However, where there is light…darkness follows.
Monoceros Star System
Planet Toulouse
A young adult, probably about 32 years old (Earth/Duniya age) arrived at the top of the steep hill where a lone ancient temple stood. Back in his town, he was known for his freestyle swimming but not many people have learned to swim. Rather, walls were made all around to protect themselves from the endless seas around the Northern Amaro Continent. However, he was always curious about the water growing up for man, many years but would be seen as an 'odd-ball' by the rest of the little society.
Entering through the foyer of the temple, he sees a lone marble altar with a symbol of the turtle on it followed by several star-like patterns in various sizes and shapes.
"It's beautiful…" Marchand muttered, "Only I wish I could see the ocean. Why do we live behind the walls?"
Getting a bit sleepy, Marchand opens his sleeping bag and rests down his supplies on the floor. He had his own place in Gerald City but was constantly sick and tired of hearing all the loud clamor of people's lives and drama. He wanted to feel peace. All the things that this city has to offer was nothing of his desire. After suffering so many stereotypes at his throat, he couldn't bear to stay another day.
The night spins into morning as he woke up to see the Monoceros Star rising up in the atmosphere. However, the temple was softly glowing as if it was welcoming his presence. Moments later, he saw a real sea turtle resting on the table.
"W-whoa there," he gasped, "H-How did you…?"
"So you see it too?" a voice asked.
Marchand turned to see the water towering itself before solidifying into a humanoid figure dressed in brown and green leather with a hunter's cloak on. It wore boots of the matching color and a face so relaxing with golden-brown hair and green eyes.
"I knew you'd make it here someday," Mizu Khnemu answered, "Since you share the family name of a famous warrior…"
"Khnemu…" Marchand muttered, "Wait…you mean that you knew my great grandfather!?"
"He was the second descendant of the guardians to this world," the Mizu god replied, "For you to make it here and to see the turtle and myself, well…I guess that means you are certainly not like the rest of these people."
"I never even met my great grandfather, he died from an accident," Marchand answered.
"His death resulted in the walls to be built, out of fear that the water of this entire planet will engulf this continent," Mizu Khnemu sighed, "But you know deep down that the water is a safe haven for those who put faith into it."
"And this sea turtle?" the human asked.
"Endurance…Wisdom…and of course longevity," the Mizu god smiled, "Now…are you ready?"
"For what?" Marchand looks at the entity.
"Accept the water and you'll find out that you are not alone in this universe…there are many others like us out there," Mizu Khnemu reaches his hand out.
Marchand closes his eyes and accepts the hand as a great blast of energy courses through his arm and hand before realizing that his body was feeling something warm and refreshing.
"From this day forth, you now possess the ability to transform and become this world's next defender," Mizu Khnemu smiled, "You are now the Guardian of the Black Eye Galaxy, protector of Endurance and Longevity, Suiei Khnemu."
Present Day: Planet Toulouse
With one of the portals still working, the group arrived at the Black Eye Galaxy where they located planet Toulouse within the Monoceros Star System. However, the planet itself lost so much of the water that it was nearly a rocky, useless planet. Perhaps one area of the planet still had some possible life.
"For there to be water…does this mean…?" Kazuki asked.
"There is a small chance that Marchand may be alive but…" Yamato narrowed his eyes, "We saw his death like the others."
"If there is any water left, there's a chance we might be able to get a hold of the planet's Mizu God," Alex said, "Let's go to that area."
"It might be too dangerous for all of us to go," Hayato replied, "We'll rotate each round."
"I'll stay with you through and through," Yamato looks at Alex.
With this, Alex, Yamato, Hayato, along with the Macedonia Trio soared their way through the skies of Toulouse where the area was about 25% covered of water left. The air was certainly much thinner to breathe but not unbearable. They saw the ruins of the former Gerald City and its temple in the distance at a place that was formerly known as the Khenmu's Mountain.
Upon landing there, they got inside to see what looked like a battle took place here. Walls were torn, the marble table was cracked. Some areas of the temple looked like there were leaks of water or some other fluid.
Recalling something from a movie, Alex decides to approach one of the puddles and touches it before seeing a vision/hologram of the incident between Memnon and the Shadow Achaemenian vs. Suiei Khnemu and the Mizu God Khnemu. Memnon clashed his magic against Marchand as both their powers were pushing against each other.
"How Foolish!" Memnon's voice laughed.
"Bastard! You take the name of Suiei for the wrong purpose!" Marchand shouted back.
"I take that name for my own business! Your death and your obedience are yours!" Memnon roared as he unleashed two spheroid beams of energy to kill Marchand and removing his Suiei Heart Crystal.
While Alex shouldn't feel too surprised by this, he was still feeling sickened by Memnon's actions. He releases the hands from the puddle. Clearly this had to be water since the magic was able to connect.
"Can we take a sample of this back?" he asked the others.
"I might be able to help with that," Albert took out a flask from his bag as he collected the water into the tube.
"If it's all water, what's the point?" Kaede asked.
"Water has memory," Alex replied, "Perhaps if we find water on the other worlds and bring them together, we could get more information out of the magic within them.
"That's…kinda interesting," Kotetsu said.
"It makes sense," Yamato agreed, "I think you're onto something there Suiei Marotta. I say we go collect the water from the other four worlds and we get back to Suizei and see what we can observe through."
Continuing Flashback:
Planet Thiene
On another far planet exists a solar system known as the Hydra Star System. The star here was rather unique as it had a blue-hue appearance. In the habitable zone region lies the planet Thiene where the entire world is covered in ocean with very few sandbars and scattered islands could be seen towards its equator.
However, most of the inhabitants live beneath the water as one particular individual was always intrigued by the surface. Their domain was known as the Nokken Sea Kingdom, home to many merfolk, sirens, and other humanoid-underwater breather species.
Ceccon makes another trip to the surface side at one of the random sandbars near the equator of the planet when he saw some bizarre-shaped figure in a translucent blue like the water itself. Intrigued, the merman watches the entity raising up its hand, creating a small building with the elements from the rock of this planet.
W-who is this being, Ceccon thought, what are those…things? Is that how they move in the surface world?
The Mizu God turned to see Ceccon, leading to an awkward stare as the merman was frightened, almost wanting to go back into the sea and forget about it.
"Have no fear," the Mizu God spoke, "I remain unnamed and unarmed."
"I don't understand," Ceccon answered, "W-what are you?"
"W-what am I…I am what builds your world to exist," the entity replied back, "All what you see, what you breathe…I am a Mizu God."
"Does this mean that you're…the water itself?" Ceccon asked, confused.
"Indeed there," the Mizu God nodded, "But for someone as brave as you to venture to the surface…perhaps I grant you the title of the defender of this world."
"D-defender…but I…" Ceccon replied.
"Fear not, for you already know the mysterious depths of this world and the power this planet possesses. Your folks mock you for not being like them…conformed, stationed…you, my child, are unique, special, and hold a sense of duty and awe," the Mizu God continued, "And someday…you will meet others who are just like you."
"Like…me? As merfolk?" Ceccon asked.
"No…being just yourself with love," the Mizu God smiled, using the magic to transform Ceccon's tail into a pair of legs, "I granted you the ability to go back and forth with your legs and fin as needed. You also now possess the ability to transform."
Ceccon looked at this interesting thing around his neck showing a heart-shaped pendant and something crystalized within it.
"T-thank you…but I'm worried I'll be in serious trouble with my family and…" Ceccon begins.
"In due time, they'll understand," the Mizu God reassures him, "For now. Let's build this new home for us. It will be your place to go to whenever trouble arises."
Storyline B:
Olympius Duniya, Our Free! arc
Day 1 Morning
With Olympius Duniya now undergoing their first day, the audience gathered at the stadium to see their swimmers debuting in their first race. However, not everyone would realize the nature of this world as so much has changed since The Final Reckoning. Only those who remember, well…remember. The public audience do not recall anything that struck this world.
In the lockers, Haruka was dressed up in his first set attire. Every preliminary swimmer in the Iwamara team had a set the Animal World jackets in promotion of swimming. However, each advancing race would gain another jacket tailored to their size. It was at least some bizarre incentive going on here as no other swimmers had something like that.
Regardless, it didn't matter to Haruka, as long as he swam his freestyle. Everyone in the audience and the teams watched as the first race was about to begin. He bent down on the knee and positioned himself ready to dive.
"Take your marks…"
"BEEP!"
Everyone watched in awe and joy as Haruka swiftly sliced through the water, completing the preliminary race in this round. It was no doubt that he would be moving onto the semi-finals for day three. Haruka got out of the water and briefly looked at the scoreboard before making his way back to the locker.
Kyle swam the 100m freestyle in the second round of the preliminaries as he too struck his hand on the wall, landing first there. The odds were definitely in his favor.
Now then, all we need is you, my dragon, he thought as he pushed himself out of the water with a smile on his face.
With this, Alex finally makes his way out from the darken hallways, entering the stage. A lot has indeed happened but no doubt this will certainly make his entire journey feel complete. He finally readies himself on the block and readies himself.
"Take your marks…"
"BEEP!"
The dragon swimmer makes his dive perfectly well, soaring through as if he was flying. While he was in lane 6, he could still pace himself well enough to get to first or second. Everyone watched upon the flip turn, Alex pushed hard enough to soar up to second in position. He was neck to neck with a swimmer from Lha'li in lane 5.
Finally, he strikes at the wall and looks up to see him making second in this heat. He smiled to himself, hoping that this time is high enough to be qualified for the semi-finals. Upon reuniting with the others in the team chamber, Nagisa leaped in for a hug along with Kyle and Rei.
"Awww, you guys are so sweet," he said.
"You'll do great!" Nagisa cheered him on, "We always knew you'd make it!"
"Yeah," Alex smiled, looking at Kyle, "Let's keep the momentum going."
"For sure," Kyle grinned.
"Well, I guess that means I better be ready myself," Rei pushes up his glasses, "The butterfly will be this afternoon."
"I still can't believe you'll be in the same with me and Sousuke," Rin added, "It'll be quite a race among us."
"I'll certainly put on a show," Rei winked.
"Next up is the backstroke," Makoto said, getting up, "Looks like Momotarou, Aoba and Hiyori will be in their own heat rounds. "
"You got this Mako-chan!" Nagisa said, "And you too Ao-chan, Hiyo-chan, Momo-chan!"
"Thanks," the latter three answered as they walked to the lockers to change.
"You're not doing the butterfly?" Ikuya looks at Asahi.
"Oh, I'm going to do the 200m version," he said, "I kinda wanna try a longer distant swimming."
"That's odd for a monkey like you to say," Ikuya smirks.
Before Asahi could make a remark, Natsuya and Nao walked in with one of the board members of the Olympics.
"Mr. Marotta are you…?" the board member asked.
"Yes, I'm here!" Alex got up and bowed briefly.
"Come with us, if you don't mind," the board member replied.
Alex looked at the others for a brief moment of concern but took a small breath and walked out with them.
D-did something happen, Alex thought, what's going on?
The four arrived in the office as Alex's heartbeat was speeding up by the minute. Natsuya and Nao were surprisingly calm about whatever this was.
"Your swimming today was truly phenomenal," the board member answers, "However, there has been a quality check in our systems and a possible human error occurred while reviewing the scene."
"W-what possible error?" Alex narrows his eyes a little.
"It's still undergoing but there's a chance that you might not have won second in that heat and could be in third," the member revealed.
"W-wait…if I am in third…" Alex's eyes widened a little.
"Your odds of going to semi-finals would be significantly slim," the woman replied, "Again, it depends on the times of the other swimmers."
His heart sank a little, feeling numb by this horrific truth. How could a stupid, incompetent error lead to something like this?
"Your tests have been negative," Nao added, "So there's nothing on your part at all to be at fault for."
He shook his head, trembling, "No…I…I can't."
"Mr. Marotta, don't beat yourself up," the woman continued, "You have done so much for this community more than you realize. While we understand of your past experience…you are not drawn to its shadow anymore."
"I'm sorry, but…I need to be alone," he answered, "No, better yet…just sign me off."
"Alex, please," Nao said but Alex walked out in the halls, looking for a way to hide himself from the rest of the crowd. For now, he had to fake his smile a tad bit till he was up safe in the suites.
"He's been through a lot," Nao said, "I apologize if his behavior was…"
"No. He has every right to be devastated," the board member answered, "Give him some time."
"I'll talk with him later after the day is over," Natsuya replied.
Back at the main area, the other swimmers continued their competition as Makoto went on ahead for the first round of the backstroke. Afterwards, Momo and Aoba faced each other off in the second round while Hiyori took on the third.
Finally, it was break time between the morning and afternoon races. However, Alex still did not return to the chamber with them. Kyle was about to say something when the backstroke swimmers arrived in the room, feeling the satisfaction of their race but noticed the change in atmosphere.
"Eh? What happened?" Momotarou asked.
"He hasn't come back down," Haruka answered.
"Come back down…?" Makoto tilted his head.
"Apparently one of the board members along with Natsuya and Nao came here and needed to have a word with him," Rin said.
Something must have happened, Kyle thought, I need to find him.
"I'll go find him," he said out loud.
"Do you need any of our assistance?" Sousuke asked.
"I have a feeling it's something more personal," Kyle answered, "But if anything goes wrong, I'll let you guys know."
"We understand," Ai replied, "Hopefully he'll be alright."
Alex sat alone in the main suite area, looking at the text messages from his parents and Sergi as they congratulated him on making second in his round. He was hesitant to tell them about the breaking news from the board member.
His mind wandered off to the past again as he was conquering so much of the swimming world, but it wasn't real. He shook off those memories and shut off his phone screen for the time being. Finally, he heard footsteps coming his way, but he ignored it.
"Figured you'd be here," Kyle said, approaching him.
He didn't reply.
"Hey, what's going on," Kyle its down in front of him, "Everyone else is worried about you."
Alex looked at him with a mixture of anger and sadness and shame all blended as one. He was so livid and speechless on what to say about all this. Kyle immediately could tell something bad happened.
"Look, it's okay to not be okay," Kyle answered, "But I know you…Sandro. You will find a way out of that sadness."
Finally, Alex replies, "A lot has happened. I am starting to realize that…maybe…I'm not meant to have everything I dreamed of."
"Why are you saying something like that?" Kyle asked, "You've worked hard to make so many dreams come true!"
"I'm just a giver," he said, "That's all."
"Sandro, just tell me…what happened? What did the board member say to you?" he cut to the chase.
"I failed, alright?" Alex replied, "The board member believes that I am not qualified to move onto the semi-finals based on the footage and data."
Shocked, Kyle answered, "Oh my god…how was that possible?"
"They're reviewing the footage," he explained, "Apparently, they believe I struck third place and not second during that heat. Meaning that my odds of moving onwards are now next to none."
Without a second thought, Kyle hugs him and answers, "Sandro…I know this race meant a lot to you. I'm sad for you too, okay?"
Finally, the dragon swimmer tears up, "I know…I feel embarrassed to see the others. They don't deserve to see my shame."
Kyle sighs sadly and replies, "Everyone has their mess ups, whether it's real world or swimming or being superheroes. You of all people know that."
"I just wanted to swim with them…be closer…" he tears up his confession, "Now I'll never be able to!"
"Never say never," Kyle calms him down, "Even if you don't make it today…there are plenty of other races you could still do."
"This is gonna sound stupid but…what if this is my punishment?" Alex answered, "What if this is fate telling me to pay the price for my misdeeds back on Earth?"
"Oh Sandro," he shakes his head, "You're not that person anymore. I mean, karma might be a bitch, but I doubt the others will judge you on this performance. Everyone still loves the way you swim."
"I just want some peace, alright?" Alex asked, wiping his face, "I promise to support you and the others…I said that long ago. For now, I just…need to let this sink in."
"I understand," Kyle finally kissed him on the forehead, "Get some rest, alright my love?"
"Thank you, Odysseus," he smiled sadly as he watched his husband leaving the suite.
Neither of them suspected a couple of people listening to this from the shadows. They too could sense the sadness from this swimmer. However, the show must go on. With this, Alex slumped to his bed to get the tears off his face before closing his eyes.
I'm sorry, everyone, he thought.
For a moment he felt like something flashing in his head, something was swimming towards him. However, he ignored it. He needed time to grieve.
Storyline A: The Final Reckoning
Continuing Flashback, Planet Saitama
Marchand and Ceccon both arrived on this highly deserted planet with areas of extreme heat or cold depending on the location. Marchand was dressed in a blue-green gradient ombre of Agbada clothing style with long sleeves, plated armor on the shoulders and knees with long, silky pants with cuffs and a set of slippers in sky-blue leather.
Ceccon on the other hand was like a warrior with armor on all sides but made of bronze with accents of orange and red. He had an open cloak that draped around his back but also wore a metallic crown around his head.
After meeting each other on their homeland planets thanks to connecting of the Mizu Gods before them, they decided to try to find more of their kind. Together, they each transformed into their 'Senshi' forms before taking off to another distant galaxy known as the Sombrero where a specific planet was identified.
"I never even heard of your kind living beneath the water like that," Marchand said.
"Well yeah, it was fun for a while until I kept wondering that mysterious light…" Ceccon answered, "Of course my folks were against of me from going there in fear of danger."
"And here I was too far ahead of my society," Marchand crossed his arms over, "They say that my swimming is nothing more than a madman's tale. That was until I learned that two of my ancestors were also swimmers."
"Are they still…?" Ceccon asked.
"No, the second successor to this power died long ago," he shrugged.
"Interesting, my Mizu God told me I am the first," the ex-merman shrugged.
They both crossed over a ravine where they saw possible signs of life in a longshot distance. With a shrug, they used their powers to fly over to see what looked like a town with humanoid beings living there. However, this town appeared to be deep within the canyons and the ravines around with something far down below the darkness.
One of the guards saw them and pointed their spears at them.
"man 'antum hataa tadkhaluu hadhih al'arda?"
(English: Who are you folks to enter this land?)
"tahadath! 'aw yastadiri!"
(English: Speak up! Or turn around!)
"I have no idea what they are saying," Ceccon looked at Marchand nervously.
With a sigh, Marchand tries to answer in their tongue but, "nahn 'ajanib min alealam alkhariji."
(English: We are foreigners from the outside world).
"hadha mustahila, almalk wahdah yaerif kayf yutiru! 'antuma shayatinu!"
(English: That is impossible, only the king knows how to fly! You two are demons!"
"I got a bad feeling we pissed them off," Ceccon answered.
"Guess we have no choice," Marchand sighed.
The guards grabbed them by the wrists, but Marchand used his power to add more weight to his body, toppling down the guard before instantly getting back on his feet and readying himself in a martial-art stance.
Ceccon started to use its siren voice to hypnotize the other guards before putting them into a sleeping episode. Marchand brushed off the dust.
"What a way to make our welcome," Ceccon replied.
"I just hope we find the guardian of this world," Marchand said.
Hours Later: Atlaua Castle
However, that little expedition around town did not last much further as more guards captured and brought them to the current ruler of the Atlaua. The architecture and its structure were wide-open with murals and fountains and gardens of sort.
"Sire, we have brought you the captives," one of the guards bowed.
Marchand and Ceccon were stuck with chains but by the looks of the prince, they could only hope for the best. The man before them wore cream-white colored robes with a turban over his head.
"Leave us," Prince Sota said.
The guards walked away to their surprise, but Sota kept his cool and turned to the duo, "You're not the only ones who are unique to the universe."
"Eh?" Marchand looked confused.
"Wait…are you saying…?" Ceccon asked.
"Guardian of the Sombrero Galaxy under the protection of Mizu Atlaua, I am the Second Descendant of planet Saitama! I am Suiei Atlaua!" he replied.
"No way…so you knew of us?" Marchand asked.
"I suspected so, for both of you to fight the guards that easily. However, I do not approve of your fighting techniques," he continued, "They're not as…sophisticated and are easy to predict."
"Our techniques aren't that bad!" Marchand said.
"Speak for yourself," Ceccon shrugged.
"I apologize for my guards not treating you well," Sota answered, "We had been at war with our neighborhood country for some time."
"A war?" Ceccon asked.
"Has your life been nothing but rainbows under the sea?" Marchand looks at him.
"We had some conflicts and fights, but whatever this war thing is…" Ceccon makes a nervous sweat drop.
"Let's say that it is a high-scale conflict, for 101," Sota answered, getting up, leading them to the command center room, "Come."
The trio arrive in the highly advanced technology room as Sota continues to explain the conflict taking place in the desert between Kamar and Atlaua.
"Look, we're sorry if we made a mess upon our debut," Ceccon answered, "Perhaps if you want, I could lend you some treasures from my world."
"Gifts, while may be of value, do not compliment with the actions that happened with you coming here," Sota said.
Ugh, what an asshole, Marchand thought, sounds ungrateful.
"I'll rephrase that, materialistic gifts," Sota said.
"If you don't need us, I understand," Ceccon answered, "We'll just…"
"I didn't say I was gonna send you guys back to your planets," Sota replied, "If anything, you being here might be the answer to what I need."
"For what?" Marchand asked.
"Watch," Sota points to the videos that explain the history of the planet as well as an archive footage or two of the people living once peacefully until a mysterious supply of water was found. However, it then showed a war between the two tribes with one person within the conflict becoming a Swimming Guardian. With this, the particular entity was able to supply the world with more water in hopes of ending the conflict.
A second golden age happened but then the water itself turned on the harsh chemicals and minerals in the rocks of the planet, becoming a toxic substance. The Swimming Guardian of that era eventually took its own life and gave its crystal back to the Mizu God before the video cut off.
"W-who was that person?!" Marchand looks at Sota.
"That was an ancestor of mine," he revealed, "Eventually that power was passed down to me but no one in this kingdom knows about this. At least not the public face."
"Why not?" Ceccon asked.
"I can't let history repeat itself," Sota answered, "I want to stay like this, but the mineral of this planet is too toxic for water to thrive. Worse, if the people from Kamar finds out, they will certainly kill me for their ancestry's decline."
"That's horrible," Marchand said, crossing his arms.
"I'll bargain a deal with you two," Sota looks at them, "If you can help me figure out what mineral this is and if we can make water a viable source again, I'll teach you both the best fighting moves of my own. We'll train you guys with the basic moves of attack and defense for now before we head out."
Sometime Later:
Kamar City
Sota led Marchand and Ceccon along with a small entourage of guards undercover to the other city. The operation was to expose Kamar's plan and to stop whatever the bastard was up to.
The prince revealed some hidden files prior to the operation that Lord Kamar planned to destroy the water on the planet and replace it with some synthetic substance he claimed prolonged life. Sota ensured that they arrived during the least guarded period of the day, but it would also be harder to access Kamar himself.
"The building tends to lay a lot of traps when there are less guards around," Sota warned his comrades, "Thankfully one of my men has a specialization in disabling things if you will. Most of the traps will be shut down."
Lord Kamar sat down at his desk drinking some glowing substance in peace. The excavation project was going very well, near completion. Ever since the substance of water existed here, he desired to find its power and change it. However, rumors said that someone else has already claimed that said title. But who…or where? Well, it was no doubt he'll meet it face to face.
He heard some of the battle cries taking place but took not a single inch off of his desk. Finally, one of the walls exploded as he saw Sota, Marchand, and Ceccon ready for whatever.
"Kinda too easy for you guys it seems," Kamar said.
"W-what?!" Sota growled.
"I set it all on purpose for you to reach here. Now that I have three of you Mizu defects in my grasp…I'll certainly be enjoying the bonus of those other two planets," Kamar grinned.
"Don't you dare talk about our other worlds!" Marchand shouted.
"Water is a cursed element; it should have never existed!" Kamar replied, "For that is what brings man into war. Whoever controls the water rules all of humanity. And whoever rules all the water, can rule all existence."
"That's enough nonsense!" Ceccon, "Water has brought life!"
"And water also brings death," Kamar answered, readying his robotic hand, "A simple touch of my Uranium and you three will be worse than dead. In fact, this entire planet's core is filled with my little core. Killing me will result in the destruction of this world."
Damn, Sota thought, this is a lot harder than it seems.
However, the game changed when Ceccon and Marchand felt their spirit animals talking with Sota's. Before their eyes, their three Mizu Gods appeared, ready to assist their human selves.
"This planet belongs to everyone and for you to destroy it, I will not allow it," Sota vowed.
Present Day: Planet Saitama
The Five Suizei senshi returned back to the surface of the planet before taking off into space with Alex, Yamato, and the Macedonia Trio. It was another successful sample collection of this planet's water.
"I…I can feel it," Alex gasped as he touched the vial, "The darkness in this land wanted to blow up the planet. But it seems that the three of them managed to fight back and liberated the toxins."
He watched the memories of the water showing them the defeat of Lord Kamar and the established friendship of Ceccon, Marchand and Sota with their newly unlocked powers of light. They were also bestowed with Chibi Princes.
More so, he noticed Ceccon taking on a closer relationship with Sota while Marchand became a stronger, more muscular being. The three vowed together to bring swimming a reality.
They too, share the same feeling as us, Alex smiled to himself.
"You know what was also interesting?" Kazuki asked, "We also found out that one of the Chibi Princes was there…the one for Atlaua. It spoke to us in a holographic memory."
"What did the spirit say?" Yamato asked.
"It warned us about the other two planets, Zo and Terraus," Takuya revealed, "Collecting the samples there will be more difficult than these."
"What do you mean?" Kotetsu asked.
"After Memnon killed off each of the planets, their worlds suffered greater damage and are thus nothing more but molten rock with plenty of methane gas and toxic fumes," Shouta added.
"Does this mean that all the water has been vaporized?" Alex looks at them.
"If the Mizu Temples still exist, there's a small possibility that a little sample of water may be preserved," Toru answered, "But with the death of these Swimming Guardians and their sequential brainwashing into the Shadow Achaemenian Empire, it's likely that the water hardly exists."
"I refuse to surrender to that," he said, "Water has to exist somewhere on those worlds…all it needs is a bit of oxygen and hydrogen."
"That may be true, but it requires a lot of energy to get it to work," Albert added, "And that energy is said to be very loud and explosive."
"Making water in a theory route," Kotetsu rested his fist beneath his chin.
"But won't it make a difference with our magic?" Kaede tilted his head.
Alex rested his fist over his head, "Using magic comes at a price…we don't know what each planet has to gain from."
"There might be another possible way to find the samples," Yamato said, "It won't be easy but…there may be one other place that could have it."
"Another place?" Alex looks at him.
"The Inter-Omniversal Pact, the headquarters?" Kazuki realized.
"But I thought that thing was…" Takuya gasped.
"Destroyed? BAHAHAH!" Yamato grinned, "After the last council meeting, we did ask a friend of ours to protect it from any threats…"
"A friend? Who?" Kotetsu crosses his arms.
"Nothing quite particular…just an old friend who knows that all magic comes with a price," Yamato said.
"W-WHAT?!" Alex gasped, "You don't mean…?!"
"Let's head back to base first and contact him then," Yamato replied.
After returning to Suizei, the remaining senshi utilized the technology while Yamato concentrated on his Yin-Yang crystal to reach out to Watanuki.
The signal was flickering at first, but Mokona was able to hold the connection going after realizing a call was being made.
"It has been some time there, Prince Yamato," Watanuki greeted.
"Indeed," the red-haired grinned.
"Witch boy, we need some help," Alex said, "A lot has happened…"
"I am aware," he answered, "You have really changed so much since your first time meeting them in Iwatobi. More so, these last several weeks have really tested your bonds."
"I contacted you to grant me access to the base," Yamato replied, "When we had our first IOP meeting some time ago, we each have placed a portion of our own powers and samples of water from each planet in this location as a back-up generator."
"Yes, I remember that," Watanuki said, "And it was you who asked me to keep it hidden from the eyes of Chaos and Memnon."
"I need to retrieve those samples so Alex can find more clues and memories of the past of the other planets that were ruined by the Shadow Achaemenian Empire," he answered.
"And for that you know I require payment," Watanuki narrowed his eyes a little.
"Prince…" Hayato muttered.
"What would that price be?" Yamato asked.
After a brief moment, witch boy looks at them, "Your Mizu Temple."
The senshi gasped as Watanuki continued, "To be fair, your crystals would be the true price but because they are your life force, I am forbidden to touch them. The next best thing would be your Mizu Temple, meaning that the water in this world will start to deplete at a slow rate. However, once enough time passes, it will disappear. At any time you transform into your senshi form, your powers will decrease at an accelerated rate."
"Yamato! You can't!" Kazuki gasped.
"That's dangerous indeed!" Takuya answered.
"The Mizu Temple he's referring to is mine," Yamato said, "However. With mine's being the strongest in this world, it will certainly cut a lot of chains."
He turns to Alex, "I know you'll be able to stop Memnon and the Shadow Achaemenian Empire. Therefore, I trust you."
"Prince…" Toru was feeling uncomfortable about this.
"The crystals…our powers…they are hope for survival," Yamato answered, "So please…old friend, grant this wish."
Watanuki closed his eyes as he concentrated on retrieving the remaining samples of water from the IOP headquarters that was trapped inside a glass bottle. Finally, they appeared in front of the senshi as a small architecture was now in Watanuki's hands that represented the Mizu Temple.
"Use them well, and good luck," he said before dismissing the signal.
They gathered forth at the empty pool basin as Alex, Kaede, Kazuki, Hayato, and Yamato each poured a sample of the waters into a metallic bowl before Yamato placed his own magic into it.
Moments later, the water glowed, and more memories appeared in a hologram. Deciding to add his own water, the prince of Suizei lightly taps on the edge of the bowl, putting his memories of them.
Alex and the Macedonia trio watched as Suizei Khnemu of Planet Toulouse along with Suiei Ebisu from planet Thiene were joined by Suiei Atlaua of planet Saitama, Suiei Ghaac of planet Terraus, and finally Suiei Gaia-Ya of planet Zo. The five of them were with Prince Yamato some undefined time ago.
"We knew each other under the IOP mentioned earlier," Yamato narrated, "Each senshi here were allies to us.
They watched as each of the five senshi introduced themselves with their own unique poses and fashion they wore from their home planets.
"Guardian of the Black Eye Galaxy under the protection of Mizu Khnemu, I am the Third Descendant of planet Toulouse! I am Suiei Khenmu! Don't underestimate the power of slowness!"
"Guardian of the Mayall's Object under the protection of Mizu Ebisu, I am the Original Descendant of planet Thiene! I am Suiei Ebisu! My music will guide you to salvation or doom, no exceptions!"
"Guardian of the Sombrero Galaxy under the protection of Mizu Atlaua, I am the Second Descendant of planet Saitama! I am Suiei Atlaua! Don't let my vulnerable appearance fool you for my strength!"
"Guardian of the Hoag's Object, under the protection of Mizu Ghaac, I am the Third Descendant of planet Terraus! I am Suiei Ghaac! Don't let the silence put your guard down!"
"Guardian of the Circinus Galaxy, under the protection of Mizu Ataben, I am the Second Descendant of planet Zo! I am Suiei Gaia-Ya! My hunger for combat and enemies are always available!"
The water then showed their downfall against Memnon and/or his henchmen as three of them were killed by the bastard himself. The other two were betrayed by their own trusted civilians who then became "false guardians" and turned down the people in position for power.
"This is really upsetting," Alex sighed, "When we were attacked, I didn't realize the three of them were formerly authentic swimmers like that."
"You had to defend yourselves, that's not your fault," Yamato said, "Plus you guys weren't aware of our kind."
"I wish…we'd all be together, not for fighting or defending but as swimmers," Alex replied, "We share our love of swimming and water for no matter what planet we are from."
"Maybe someday, that star will shine enough for people to realize that war and fighting isn't always the answer," Yamato agreed.
Alex nodded as he looked at the five senshi in the hologram. Each of them, despite seeing it virtually, he can tell they were all in great pain from being coerced into the Shadow Achaemenian Empire. Some of the other members were clearly artificially made and were not from any planets nor had water as their element.
"Marchand, Sota, and Gaia-Ya are freestyle swimmers it seems," Kotetsu noticed the hologram displaying the profile notes.
"Kentaurus does the breaststroke, while Gaia-Ya also does butterfly and Ceccon with the backstroke," Yamato added.
"You guys ever competed?" Albert asked.
"On a casual basis, but nothing official," Yamato answered, "The sad thing is that each of our planets…only the few of us are swimmers. No one else ever swims."
"So, each planet's population never had a portion who swims? That's sad," Kotetsu grunted.
"That's why you guys are special," Kazuki said, "You have brought swimming from a planet that allows it to exist to an entire new world."
"Well, this is strictly off the record but…Duniya is a future version of Earth," Alex replied.
"We know that, but the society has evolved there after the powers that be did some rearrangements there," Yamato answered.
"When are we going to find Memnon?" Albert asked.
"If you guys are ready, we'll go," Hayato replied.
Everyone turned to Alex as the latter nodded, "I can't bear to let our friends suffer any longer. It's time."
Storyline B:
Olympius Duniya, Our Free! arc
Day 1 Afternoon matches
"I hope Sandro-chan is okay," Nagisa said as he, Ikuya and Aiichrou were getting ready for their breaststroke competitions. They were changing up to their swimsuit forms.
"Kyle went up to check with him," Ai noted, "But he hasn't responded."
"I tried to ask aniki but he didn't respond either," Ikuya said, "It must be something serious."
"Let's not think the worst-case scenario," Nagisa answered, "In no time, Sandro-chan will be smiling again like the greatest star."
"I just don't want him to be upset with himself," Ikuya added, "He's not the only one who's been through lots."
"I agree," Ai nodded, "After everything that has happened, we need to look after each other."
"For now, let's focus on our events," Ikuya replied.
"Best of luck to us," Nagisa grinned.
Kyle returned to the room as some of the Takagami senshi were present along with Hiyori, Aoba, Makoto, Haruka, and Gou.
"How's…?" Makoto began.
"He's resting," Kyle said.
"Did he tell you what happened?" Hiyori asked.
Kyle nodded, "But he's not ready to discuss what happened. He needs some time alone."
"Is he in trouble or something?" Isana questioned.
"Not necessarily, but he did have a meeting with the board member," Kyle revealed, "For now, let's keep the show going."
I hope he's okay, Gou thought, a meeting with the boards is not a good sign.
"Heya, it's about to start," Hikaru pointed to the TV.
"Let's keep faith in our teammates!" Seijuurou makes a fist with his signature grin.
"The Men's 100m Breaststroke Prelim will begin shortly."
Nagisa readies himself on the tie first heat, thrilled and keen on making his own journey. On the beep, he dove in with grace, bobbing up and down in the breaststroke.
"Good start," Kaede watched.
Ikuya and Aiichirou watched from the side as they had their own separate rounds. They could only hope of getting to the semi-finals likewise. However, the race was indeed competitive as Nagisa makes it to third place of the heat.
"It's not bad, but those times could easily be overthrown," Ikuya narrowed his eyes.
"Sounds like we'll need all the luck we can get," Ai nodded.
"You guys ain't the only one," a voice said.
The two turned to see Kotetsu finally arriving, "Ran a tad behind but I'm in."
"I assume you're in the same round as me?" Ikuya asked.
"Perhaps," he winked.
"Well regardless, at least if one of us makes it onward," Ai said.
"Don't sell yourself short," Kotetsu reminded him, "We're all gonna kick ass!"
"I guess you must have rubbed off Sandro," Ikuya teased.
"Oh, shut it," Kotetsu makes his semi-tsundere response, "Let's go."
With the results in, Nagisa, Ai, Kotetsu and Ikuya miraculously were eligible for the semi-finals. For certain that race will definitely be a weed-out sort of situation. They were greeted with congratulations.
"Did Sandro-chan come back?" Nagisa asked.
"He's resting up for the time being," Rin said.
"I see," Ai lowered his head a little.
"Did he say something to you, Ky-chan?" the blond looks at Kyle.
He remained silent for a moment but briefly answered, "Yes. However, he does not want to disclose anything for the time being."
"This clearly isn't like him," Rei rested his fist beneath his chin, "We're gonna be on lunch break shortly. Maybe we all go up and checkup?"
"He might be overwhelmed like that," Kyle said when his phone vibrated. Moments after opening it, he added, "Maybeeee…um….?"
"Hm?" Makoto asks.
"He said he'll be down for the remainder of the day," Kyle sighed in some relief.
"I have a feeling he didn't make the cut," Kaede remarked.
"That's not quite nice to say that so bluntly," Albert said.
"Well, for someone like him…" he shrugged.
Kyle kept silent but he looks at them, "He'll tell us when he's ready."
"Regardless, I'm certainly looking forward to this upcoming race," Asahi remarked.
"It's gonna be a lot of us," Rei added, "Rin-san, and Sousuke-san and perhaps Natsuya-kun."
"Geeze that's a lot of butterflies," Nagisa chuckled.
"Let's not," the megane turns his head to the side.
With his phone alarm going off, Alex woke up from the brief power nap and noticed it was certainly lunch break time from the competition. He didn't want the others to worry too much about his loss so he decided to head back down. As he made his way, his mind flashed back in abstract of all that happened before…
It feels so surreal, he thought, was everything like all a dream? Even now I feel like…
He heard someone humming nearby at the upcoming intersection corner. Upon taking a peek it was Asahi singing to himself briefly before turning to see him.
"O-Oi!?" Asahi gasped, "Where have you been?!"
"I'm alright," Alex said, "Sorry for leaving so suddenly like that. My mind hasn't been too great."
"Hm, perhaps you want one of my mental training books?" he offered.
"I appreciate it but it's not so much about training," the other swimming answered, "Where are the others?"
"Well, it's lunch break, I assume they're in the main lobby area. I'm just waiting for Hiyori to be done with his restroom. Wanna join us for lunch?" Asahi asked.
"Sure, as long as I'm near my husband and the others too," he said.
"Sounds good," Asahi grinned a little.
Once Hiyori finished up, they headed downstairs to where the others were hanging out and eating. Those who were swimming in the afternoon rounds had to be careful not to eat over or under. As for the others who finished, they had their normal portions. Kyle smiles upon seeing his husband again as Nagisa chuckled.
"Heya guys, sorry for that earlier," Alex said, "I do have some news to share but I rather wait till its later in the day. I kinda ran off without thinking properly."
"No worries," Makoto replied, "When you're ready to talk, we'll listen."
"Thank you," he answered, "I did watch the livestream. Congrats to you Nagisa, Ai, Kotetsu, and Ikuya."
"Oh, hehe, I knew you'd be there in spirit," Nagisa winked.
"Thank you," Ai smiled.
"Heh, just be ready for the semi-finals," Kotetsu wink.
"I'm certainly surprised this many of us made it," Ikuya agreed.
"Where are the Takgami guys?" Alex asked.
"They're around, but getting ready for their medley relays tomorrow," Haruka replied.
"I thought Seijuurou was gonna do the butterfly with us?" Sousuke asked.
"He's doing the 200m version instead of 100m," Momo reminded him.
"Ah," he nodded.
I'm not sure when…or how, but why do I feel like something is gonna start, Alex thought, my heart is broken but I still…feel like…maybe…could I really be a part of all this and more? Maybe whatever they were trying to tell me earlier…
"Mr. Marotta," a familiar voice was heard.
Alex turned to see Nao as the latter answered, "Seems like you cooled off a bit?"
"A little," he said, "I'm sorry about my actions earlier."
With a nod, Nao leads him to the side with Natsuya, away from the others as they talked briefly.
"We're still processing with that race of yours," Natsuya explained, "But regardless of the outcome, we still think you can qualify for some other events."
"Like in a different race?" Alex tilted his head.
"To a degree, yes," Nao said, "The world of Olympics and professional swimming isn't one without problems. You have the talent in speed. I know you do. Think about how far you've become."
"Yeah," he nodded, "That is true…what I did back on Terabithia…it was so superficial. I guess it only hurts me so much because I feel like I can't be a part of their world."
"Nonsense," Natsuya replied, "Your swimming has not changed for the worse."
"Perhaps not but…" Alex sighed, "Kyle and I…we're not exactly getting younger everyday…chronologically."
"We're aware of that, trust us," Nao nodded, "The Dark Curse really put a number of things. Anyway, we have a proposition for you."
"Huh?" he looks at them.
"We're going to do some special training for you. It will be a duration of three nights in case of an emergency is needed during the events," Nao continued, "You need to be in your best shape possible if this operation is gonna work."
"I'm guessing this starts tonight?" Alex asked.
"Once the stadium is cleared, we can use the smaller pool in the back," Natsuya said, "We got clearance from the committee."
"Very well," he nodded, "I agree to the terms."
"If the IOC does find you eligible for the semi-finals, we'll proceed the normal operation," Nao replied, "We'll let you know no later than tomorrow afternoon."
Hours Later
The rest of Day 1 went as normal operation without further problems. Makoto, Momotarou, and Sousuke were eligible to move on with the semi-finals for the backstroke while Rin, Rei, and Natsuya were successful in the butterfly. Seijuurou did pass his 200m butterfly and is ready for the semi-finals.
The Takagami senshi were planned for their Freestyle Medley 400m competitions which involved in the teams for the preliminary:
*Hidaka: Isana, Hikaru, Asahi, Seijuurou
*Shimogami: Kotarou, Shin, Hiyori, & Tsubasa
At the lodging area, the Iwasame team along with Alex, Kyle, Asahi, and Ikuya were reflecting about today's events as well as talking casually about other stuff.
"This will be exciting tomorrow!" Nagisa grinned.
"At least we'll have time to recover," Rei agreed.
"Don't forget we do have the mixed medley in the afternoon," Haruka reminded them.
"Heh, it'll be like old times…kinda," Rin smirked.
"A lot of teams to cover," Alex said.
"Well once the prelims are through, things will narrow down," Makoto added.
"Right," he answered, looking at the clock, "Anyway I need to head on down."
"To where?" Nagisa looks at him.
"Oh um…Natsuya and Nao needed to talk to me," Alex shrugged, "Not sure what exactly but…"
Kyle was about to say something, but his phone flashed for a moment as a message appeared. Upon reading it, he noted to self and answered, "I'm sure things will work out well."
"Yeah, I'll be back later tonight, no worries," he smiled.
"Get some rest properly," Sousuke reminded him.
"Of course!" he said, "See you guys later!"
Once he was out of their hearing range, they looked at each other in some mild awkward silence but nodded.
"Do you think this will work?" Kyle asked.
"Well for certain, with what we have been told, we cannot let this all be in vain," Sousuke said.
"We'll do our best to support him," Ikuya agreed.
"He better support us back too," Asahi grumbled a little.
"He will," Haruka answered, "He might have lost this race but…it's not over yet."
"And as for the rest of us?" Nagisa looks at him.
"We have to keep going," Makoto replied.
"I still don't understand how our past selves even invented such a thing," Rin crossed his arms.
"Well, I think it's a fun little twist," Rei shrugged, "Maybe it's a sign of something…"
"Hehehe well whether you guys like it or not, I can't wait to challenge with all of you!" Momo winked.
"Oh dear," Ai makes a nervous sweat drop.
"Let's not get too caught up in ourselves for that event," Haruka reminded them, "Especially after everything that happened with us."
"Do the others know about this?" Asahi asked.
"Bits and pieces," Makoto said, "Once that day gets closer, we'll start to ensure that everything goes smoothly."
Main Arena – Side Pool
Alex arrived at the semi-lit pool area of the Aquatics where he saw Natsuya dressed in his swimsuit form while Nao was in his semi-casual attire.
"Just you?" Alex looks at them.
"You'll face me tonight, just a single race if you win. And if you don't, we will repeat as many as it takes," he said.
W-what the, Alex thought, won't that be…exhausting?
"The diving blocks are ready for you both," Nao said.
"Is this…even allowed?" he looks at them.
"I have already worked with the IOC about it," the silver-lavender haired man replied.
With a nod, they both stepped on the blocks and readied themselves. Nao calls the shots:
"Take your marks…ready….GO!"
The two dive in with ease as Natsuya and Alex are neck to neck. The brunette Kirishima brother monitored Alex's progress through this water.
M-My body feels a bit heavy, Alex thought, is it my stress? The trauma? I…I can't…
JINGLE-JINGLE
JINGLE-JINGLE
Everything turned dark like the abyss around him, but a small fish could be seen in a small speck of light. The koi carp swam in silence and fear as Alex was fast approaching it. He didn't want to swim it over but his obstacle with Natsuya…he had to win this race.
Nao watched as Alex was indeed slipping a little, but the timing was still qualifying. Alex and Natsuya finally struck the wall and flipped over.
Back in the vision, Alex watched the Koi Carp still struggling to swim as he was almost reaching at arm's length.
"No matter what, there will always be darkness and light…battle and peace…life, death, happiness, sadness…all possibilities…everything is all part of the Omniverse…"
T-that voice, Alex thought as he remembered hearing those words, that's it!
With this, the Koi Carp finally turns into a beam of light as Alex was now catching up and passing up Natsuya. The brunette observed this and smirked to himself, knowing that this was indeed the beginning of the final stroke for this swimmer.
Don't give up, no matter what happened back then, Natsuya thought, you've done more than what was asked of you…
The two finally hit the walls and breathe out for air. Nao stopped the timer and congratulated both of them.
"See. You're doing fine," Natsuya replied, "Don't ever think less about yourself."
"I know…it's just…I feel bad for not making far," Alex answered, "But…I will support everyone! At least someone from our team should make it to the gold."
"Don't forget you are still part of the team," Nao added, "Whether you compete here in the Olympics or just even being with us in general. I understand your expectations of yourself are very high. However, don't let it drain your mental health."
"Alright," he nodded, "If anyone of us needs a backup, please consider me."
Alex went back upstairs to the suite as the others were mostly sleeping. However, the skies were so clear and peaceful with the glittering of the stars. It was quite a view to watch. He closed his eyes to reflect the sounds of battle in his head as he still wondered how much had changed.
So many people, their dreams, their goals…it's like a long time in the making, he thought, god I hope we get that video of the concert from last night…it was fun seeing her almost in person. I wonder if my father had a hand in making this possible…
Finally, he yawned and went to his bed to get some rest. His mind was still feeling surreal about everything that happened last month. However, he knew better than the dwell on the past. This was the future that he wished for…even if it's not everything exact.
Masaki's Shrine
The young master priest looked up to see the night sky as Minato, Seiya, and a few others were finishing on packing their equipment for their upcoming Olympics. They were going to be next after the swimmers finished their competition.
"That was fun last night," Minato recalled listening to La Solitudine.
"I might not know much of what she said, but it was pretty," Eisuke replied.
"I'm just glad we can finally have our show peacefully," Shuu added.
Minato rested his fist over his heart, "Absolutely. They finally saved not only our world…but so many countless other realities."
"They truly are incredible," Masaki smiled, "All of them."
Sia La Luce e La Vita
Joe closed up the shop and shut the lights as he walked out to see Cherry, Shadow, Oka, Ainosuke, and Tadashi. They were also ready for what is yet to come with the Olympics.
"The children are asleep at the arena," Cherry said, "They wanted to watch some of the swimming events."
"Did you get word from…?" Joe began.
"Yes," Ainosuke answered, "The committee and certain classified individuals have prepared for that day."
"I still don't get what's this fuss all about?" Shadow pouted a little.
"I don't know either but I'm looking forward to it," Oka replied.
"It's just a little good ol' Operation," Cherry crossed his arms.
"That doesn't sound much of a good thing!" Shadow barked.
"Let's head on over to the Arena and get ourselves ready. I can perform a quality check on the obstacle course in between of things," Tadashi said.
"You're dodging the subject of what I'm asking!" Shadow replied.
"Enough shouting from you," Cherry hits Shadow with his little folding fan.
Iwamara Coastal Estates
Articora!Alex woke up as he felt his heart sinking in some sadness and confusion. He turned to see Articora!Rei waking up as well in noticing the distress.
"Is something wrong?" the megane asked.
"I…had a dream," Articora!Alex replied, "I think something happened to my original half…"
"What do you mean?" Articora!Rei looks at him.
"It was a Koi Carp swimming…but it looked like it was dying," he said.
"Whatever has happened to your other half, I am sure things will be okay," the husband answered, "A dead fish is not something necessarily out of fear, but rather an acknowledgement of the experience and moving onward."
"I wonder if we can go see him…" Articora!Alex replied, "Just a quick meet up. I'm sure he's incredibly busy."
"Now that you said that…" Articora!Rei reveals two guest passes he secured in an envelope.
His eyes widened with some tears of hope, "R-Rei…"
"We'll go to him," he promised, "That way you can support him and everyone else too."
"Yeah," he smiled, kissing him on the cheek, "Thank you."
As everyone continued to either sleep or celebrate life, no one noticed a set of meteor lights flying across the skies. Moments later, a group of guys arrived in casual clothing as they looked at the arena from across the street.
"I can't wait to see this," one of them said.
"Do they have any idea about us being here?" the second asked.
"Some know, but not everyone," the third person answered.
"Regardless, I can't wait to see them again," the fourth guy nodded.
"We owe them our thanks for sure," the fifth man agreed.